Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i193

issue

193 APRIL 2022

JAMIE D O N O VA N CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

the strength of intel igence or the strength of confidence, your perfect SUV is available now.

Discov re the range ta Andrew Miedecke Motors today. www.mbportmacquarie.com.au Discover Discover our our strongest strongest range range of of SUVs. SUVs. The TheMercedes-Benz Mercedes-BenzSUV SUVrange rangeisishere. here.From Fromthe thedynamic, dynamic,sporty sportyGLA GLAto tothe theluxuriously luxuriously spacious spaciousGLS, GLS,the theMercedes-Benz Mercedes-BenzSUV SUVrange rangeisisstronger strongerthan thanever everbefore. before.

With Withaawide wideselection selectionofofmodels modelsto tochoose choosefrom, from,there’s there’sone onefor foralmost almostevery everyfamily, family, every everyadventure adventureand andevery everystyle. style.Whether Whetheryou’re you’reinspired inspiredby bythe thestrength strengthofofversatility, versatility, the thestrength strengthofofintelligence intelligenceor orthe thestrength strengthofofconfi confidence, dence,your yourperfect perfectSUV SUVisisavailable availablenow. now.

100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 6583 8855DL8071www.mbportmacquarie.com.au

DDisisccoovveerrtthheerraannggeeaattAAnnddrreewwMMieieddeecckkeeMMoottoorrssttooddaayy.. wwwwww.m .mbbppoorrttmmaaccqquuaarrieie.c.coomm.a.auu

100 100Hastings HastingsRiver RiverDrive, Drive,Port PortMacquarie Macquarie6583 65838855 8855DL8071 DL8071www.mbportmacquarie.com.au www.mbportmacquarie.com.au 2 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

3

4 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

5

WHAT’S ON @ GLASSHOUSE BIG SKIES & WATERWAYS 8 WEEK WORKSHOP WITH JILL CAIRNS Saturday 7 May to 25 June, 1pm CURRENT EXHIBITIONS

LIAM BENSON: YOU ALREADY KNOW On view until Sunday 24 April

ANNA-WILI HIGHFIELD: MATING DANCE On view until Sunday 1 May

A SALUTE TO ROY ORBISON Friday 13 May, 8pm

CRAFT & COCKTAILS First Friday of the month: April (1st), May (6th) & June (3rd), 5.30pm

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS

COASTAL INSPIRATIONS Saturday 30 April to Sunday 3 July

NORTHERN EXPOSURE 7 Saturday 7 May to Sunday 26 June

MOTHER’S DAY IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

I

glasshouse.org.au

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

OPENING NIGHT Friday 6 May, 6pm

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

Follow Glasshouse:

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

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENTS AN ENSEMBLE THEATRE PRODUCTION

A LEGENDARY STORY OF AUSTRALIAN CRICKET ROYALTY, OVERFLOWING WITH STRENGTH, RESILIENCE, HOPE AND POSSIBILITY.

BY GEOFFREY ATHERDEN • DIRECTED BY WESLEY ENOCH

★★★★ A captivating and inspiring story that reverberates today.

Saturday 23 April, 8pm PLUS POST SHOW Q&A AND CAST MEET & GREET

BOOK NOW: 02 6581 8888 | glasshouse.org.au

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

ARTSHUB

School Holidays at Settlement City

Easter Colouring In Wall 1st April – 30th April 9am to 5pm daily Located across from The Reject Shop, kids and adults can let their creativity run wild! Grab a sharpie and join in on colouring our Community Easter Colouring In Wall.

10 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

FREE Stuff A Bear Workshop – Easter Edition 11th April – 14th April | 10am to 2pm Join us on Centre Court to create your very own plush teddy bear. Decorate its bandana Easter themed and grab a yummy Easter Egg! This workshop is for ages 3+ and there is limited spots per day so get in quick and don’t miss out.

Meet the Easter Bunny + Face Painting 16th April | 10am to 12pm Head in centre on Easter Saturday and spot the Easter Bunny who will be hopping around the centre and handing out Easter Eggs! You can also get your face painted on Centre Court for FREE!

11 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

12 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

What’s new at Sovereign Place Physio Haven Introducing Brendan Crabtree, Director/ Principal Physiotherapist of Physio Haven now open at Port Macquarie’s Sovereign Place Town Centre.

Physio Haven offers expert and individualised physiotherapy treatment, programs for sports injuries, pre and post-operative rehabilitation, manual therapy, dry needling and Work Cover injury management.

“At Physio Haven our mission is to empower our patients through education to understand their condition, manual therapy to help alleviate their pain and exercise prescription that allows them to live an active and healthy lifestyle.”

Physio Haven is located next to Your Discount Chemist on Chancellors Drive.

www.northhavenphysio.com | 5514 9393 Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday 8am - 12pm

Are you an allied health professional looking to grow your business?

Sovereign Place leasing opportunities exist for: - Dental

- Naturopathy

- Podiatry

- Nutrition

- Skin Specialist

- Psychology

- Optometry

- Occupational Therapy

Contact retailmanager@sovereignhills.com.au

Peakface Lifestyle Café Introducing Peakface Lifestyle Cafe, brought to you by two business families Peak Coffee and Bookface Cafe.

“We wanted to open a café in Sovereign Place as it was a new opportunity to expand our business in a growing part of Port Macquarie,” explained co-owner Jake Hawes.

From their new kiosk location, PeakFace serves up specialty coffee, fresh juices and smoothies and delicious grab and go meals, including wraps, toasties, frittatas and salads.

It’s fresh and healthy fast food.

Open daily, at the Sovereign Place IGA entry. @peakfacecolabcafe

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

15

I

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

t’s a little too much like deja vu, and not in a good way. The rains are back and while I am writing this team note flood warnings are in place. We as a community have shown that we can get through pretty much anything that Mother Nature has thrown at us – so stay strong, stay safe, be kind to each other and above all be smart.

photography!? Absolutely stunning. Make sure you check out Craig’s images and follow him on Facebook @craigmwilliamsphotos In this edition: Easter holidays are upon us.

Our local entertainment venues have some great activities, live music and Easter raffles for the whole family to enjoy.

On the cover: Jamie Donovan is our Citizen of the Year and his interview on page 20-23 is definitely worth a read. Jamie is an amazing man and someone this community should be very proud of.

We interview James Single from Port Macquarie Golf Club who has recently been awarded the PGA National Club Professional of the Year after previously winning state PGA Club Professional of the Year across both NSW and ACT.

Team note background photo: Craig Williams – what can we say about his

IRONMAN is back, and so is IRONKIDS, which is super exciting. Read all about the event and

focus GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

how to register on page 34-35.

Anzac Day 2022: April 25 – make sure you head out to your local dawn service or march and support our service men and women.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for locations and times where you can attend.

Next month: We are SUPER excited about our May edition.With the Boots & Beach festival on in May we get to interview a few of the stars who will perform. If you haven’t grabbed your tickets for this yet, make sure you do. It’s going to be a cracka.

On behalf of all the team here at FOCUS, have a happy Easter and safe long weekend. Fingers crossed we have a sunny and warm one!

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR & ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

HEAD DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au 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 2022 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.

14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

D PP AR SHE

O

IA

LISA HU

LITT

LE

GE

RG

NT

#bigchillarmidale GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

15

Issue 193 - April 2022 INTERVIEWS

26

CLASSIC BIKE SHOW

Port Macquarie Classic Bike Club’s Classic Bike Show is on Sunday 24 April at Settlers Inn. For bikes over 30 years old, it supports the palliative care unit at Wauchope Hospital.

34

IRONKIDS

IRONMAN Australia is celebrating its 35th birthday this year and for the first time since 2015 it’s holding its IRONKIDS event at Camden Haven on Sunday 24 April.

42

ALLY PATON

Port Macquarie photographer Ally Paton is passionate about capturing personal moments as well as nature. We talk to her about her art, and finding time for herself as a busy mum!

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 49. Hello Sailor - From the Shaker 52. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 55. Alex Cassegrain - Grape Escape 62. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 74. Vanessa Lawrence - Style Vibe Savvy 90. Peta Pinson - A Moment with the Mayor 96. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice CONTRIBUTOR

98. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate

OF THE MONTH

103. Jeremy Brigden - Legal Light

JEREMY BRIGDEN

107. Lauren McAllister & Simon Bank - Business Minds

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

Thank you for your contribution to FOCUS. Follow us on 16 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

78 focusmag.com.au

h t r o w m a T it!

Discover

the incredible Tamworth Region this Autumn FIND OUT MORE BY VISITING WWW.DESTINATIONTAMWORTH.COM.AU/TAMWORTH-IT

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

19

9

GALA NIGHT OF DANCE

A showcase of Classical & Contemporary dance, featuring some of Australia’s most sought after performers in a collaboration between professional dance companies and local dance non-profit Dance Mid North Coast Association. When Saturday, April 9 Tickets glasshouse.org.au

APRIL 2022

15

25

ANZAC DAY 2022

AKOOSTIK CHILLZ

Monday, April 25 Wauchope - Laurieton - Port Macquarie

Live music in the beer gardens every Friday afternoon from 5.30pm. Chill out with Akoostik Chillz playing the best of the 80’s classic you all know and love.

When Friday, April 15 Where Wicked Elf

11

CHARITY GOLF DAY

Port Chamber and Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Port Macquarie Golf Club. The golf day will be a 18 hole, fourperson Ambrose, with tee off between 10am11.30am, a BBQ lunch from 12pm-1.30pm (after first 9 holes) and presentation dinner following the golf at 5pm.

When Monday, April 11 More info portchamber.com.au/events 18 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

22

WALTER WHIP AND THE FLAMES

Come along to the 2022 Wauchope Annual Show and see Walter Whip and The Flames perform their talented and jaw dropping western show When April 22 & 23 Tickets 123tix.com.au

30

COASTAL INSPIRATIONS Exhibition Glasshouse Port Macquarie

Coastal Inspirations celebrates the artistic talents of two groups from the Port Macquarie Art & Craft Centre (PMACC); the Art group and the Pottery group. The exhibition consists of a selection of the potters’ hand-built and wheel-thrown pottery producing functional and sculptural ceramics, and the artists’ portraiture, plein air sketching and painting. From Saturday, April 30 Where Glasshouse Port Macquarie

the

Department store

EASTER

% 20 OFF STOREWIDE

*

APRIL 11, 12, 13, 14 & 16

WAUCHOPE 22 High Street 6588 8950 LAURIETON Haven Plaza Bold Street 6588 8950

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

21

JAMIE DONOVAN

JAMIE DONOVAN is an aspiring Indigenous leader who is well respected and loved by the community. Earlier this year Jamie was award the Citizen of the Year. Focus were honoured to catch up with Jamie and hear all about his amazing community involvement and what drives his passion each and every day.

H

i Jamie, let’s start at the beginning, tell us where you grew up and about your connection to the Wauchope area?

I am proud Aboriginal man

of the Biripi/Worimi/Bundjalung nations. I was born in Taree but have lived my whole life in Wauchope. As a child we spent most weekends and holidays in Forster with my mother’s family.

Through my mother’s country I am a traditional owner for the Laraki traditional owners group in Forster and on my father’s side we are traditional 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

owners for Birpai country also. My grandparents Amos and Frances Donovan, along with Aunty Isobel and Uncle Frank Moran, were the founding members for Bunyah Local Aboriginal Lands Council in Wauchope. So it could be said I have a very strong connection to this country.

You have a beautiful and large family, can you introduce them to our readers?

Family is important and my beautiful family consists of myself, my beautiful wife Paige and we are sharing life’s journey with five children from ages 7-16. We spend most afternoons at some kind of sporting activity. They only get this

one opportunity to have these experiences and we are in a position to be able to provide it to them so we do. Our plate is always full.

Congratulations on your recent Citizen of the Year award. Such a wonderful achievement, how does it make you feel being recognised for all that you do for your community?

I was extremely humbled by the fact that my community members wanted to nominate me for the award. Then to actually be selected as the winner of the Citizen of the Year category was extremely humbling in a category with

focus_interview

some amazingly strong, dedicated and deserved nominees, it was a bit of a shock. I guess, I just do what I do, to be a good role model for my kids and for my nieces and nephews. I obviously have a very supportive wife also, but our marriage is a partnership, and we work together very well as a team.

You have quite a long and impressive resume, can you give us an insight to all that you do?

I started my working career the day after my last HSC exam, at Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council on an Aboriginal Employment

Centrelink working in various roles from Call Centre operator, Debt Preventions Officer and Indigenous Specialist Officer. As I gained experience working in Aboriginal communities across the state I started to step into Professional Development, working my way up to become one of the lead facilitators across the country in the delivery of Cultural Awareness training to various Federal Government Departments. This job required a lot of travel and with a young family I decided it was time for a change. I was pleased to have the opportunity to work with the NSW Department of Education again, as the Aboriginal Student Liaison Officer. I have been with the Department for eight years now, in this role I support approx 42 public schools, primary and high school, from Johns River to Eungai Rail.

Continued over...

I guess, I just do what I do, to be a good role model for my kids and for my nieces and nephews.

I obviously have a very supportive wife also, but our marriage is a partnership, and we work together very well as a team.

program (CDEP), working as contractors to the Department of Public Works, doing preliminary work to create the Cowarra Dam. While working with Bunyah, I enrolled to do business studies at TAFE and consequently applied for a Traineeship with the NSW Department of Education, and I successfully completed my traineeship. After doing a couple of years working with a kitchen company, I was successful in applying to work with the Federal Department of Human Services, Centrelink. I spent 14 years with

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

21

My role is to monitor and support the re-engagement of Aboriginal Students who are disengaged from school. It’s an important role, supporting students and families to build relationships with their local educational institutions so that our youth are able to get the best education they can, to be successful in life. Other involvements that I have include: 23 years with the 333 Sqn Australian Air Force Cadet unit in Port Macquarie. Since leaving the cadet unit I have commenced volunteering with the Beechwood RFS. I am a life member of the Beechwood Shamrocks RLFC, I have been the chairperson of Bearlay Aboriginal Interagency group. I am currently the chairperson of the Mid North Coast Regional Aboriginal Men’s Group (MNCRAMG) and also chairperson of Bunyah Local Aboriginal Lands Council (LALC). I am on the interim committee for the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory group for the Hastings local cultural fishing management plan (HLMP). I’m a member of the Hastings AECG, member of Djuyagal Wakulda, Birpai language group.

I have been a member of the Dhoongang Aboriginal dance group for the past 10 years.

I also volunteer and support the various sporting clubs that my children are involved in which include Wauchope Junior RLFC, Wauchope netball, Wauchope Little Athletics 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

...supporting

club, Wauchope touch.

Pedagogical approaches students and So yeah I have been to Education, Art, families to build pretty busy.

Dance, Weaving and relationships with their Tell us more about Gathang (Birpai) local educational the Connecting to Aboriginal Language institutions so that our Country Program? workshops. By sharing youth get the best Connecting to and creating an education they can, to Country is a program awareness of Australian be successful in life. that I help facilitate for history with an the Hastings Aboriginal Aboriginal perspective, Education Consultative participants are able Group (AECG). The AECG is the Peak to continue their journey of awareness and Advisory body on educational outcomes understanding and continue to share this for Aboriginal students to the Department knowledge with their students and their of Education. The Connecting to Country families and colleagues, this all leads to program is a three-day cultural immersion hopefully a better future for our children. program where we take participants on What drives your passion to be so a journey of understanding, sharing, involved in each and every day? compassion and education. Sharing stories As a proud Aboriginal Australian I want to from Local Elders of what life has been like see my children grow up in a country where from an Aboriginal perspective growing up in their culture is celebrated. Australia is the this country, being affected by government home of the oldest continuing culture in the policies that discriminated against only world, Aboriginal Culture. I am proud of my Aboriginal people. As an Educational culture and I am proud to be an Australian. program we also connect local Aboriginal Like any parent I am just trying to give my knowledge holders with the participants children every opportunity that I had – and to share and learn about Aboriginal more – while they are growing up. I want to

focus_interview

My main hobby or downtime activity when the kids are all in bed is my artwork. I create fully custom Aboriginal designs that are generated into Polo T-shirts...

continue to ensure that the Aboriginal voice in our community is heard and our stories are told by us. Everyday I get up and go to work in hope that my children take on some of these work ethics, the importance of Education to have what you want in life and I guess I demonstrate this too to my kids, as I am currently at University studying full-time, doing my Bachelor of Education (Primary).

You are also the chairperson of the Mid North Coast Regional Aboriginal Men’s Group tell us why this group is so important to you?

The Mid North Coast Regional Aboriginal Men’s Group (MNCRAMG) was established in 2007. The MNCRAMG acts as an Advisory group to Local Aboriginal men’s groups from Forster to Woolgoolga. I have been active with the MNCRAMG since 2009 and over the majority of that time have sat as the chairperson. It’s a privilege to lead this group, made up of community leaders and elders. The primary role of the MNCRAMG is to provide cultural support and guidance to the member men’s groups, which support all Aboriginal men in each community. I feel

my involvement in this group is important not just for the men and communities that we support through this group, but our members of the group are committed to working towards positive outcomes for Aboriginal men, their families and communities. It’s a valuable support network for me also when I need my mentors and other Aboriginal men who are sharing my experiences.

When it comes to some down time and the weekend rolls around, what do you get up to, what are some of your hobbies?

Well, now that my footballing career is behind me, lol, I love to spend time with my family. We can often be found travelling around our beautiful country locally and afar.

With five kids, during peak sporting seasons we spend a lot of time at various sporting venues. My main hobby or downtime activity when the kids are all in bed is my artwork. I create fully custom Aboriginal designs that are generated into Polo T-shirts that support the companies who I work with, to continue their reconciliation journey and embracing Aboriginal art, stories and connections. I

think I have done more than 35 different designs for businesses, schools, sporting clubs etc. I also have a couple of large murals that I have been commissioned to do at a couple of local services.

What is something that people may not know about you?

Wow this is a hard one... I lived and worked in New Delhi, India for six months. I was lucky enough to be given this opportunity with my employment at Centrelink. It was an adventure I will never forget.

What are you looking forward to this year and can you tell us what your goals are moving into the next 12 months?

I am really looking forward to seeing the opportunities and the development of the Cowarra Tourism Precinct and what it has to offer our whole region. It’s a partnership between NSW Forestry, Koala Conservation NSW, Bunyah LALC, Wild Nets and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council to create a koala hospital and eco-tourism precinct for our region, it has the potential to be an amazing space for locals and visitors alike. Moving forward I am really looking forward to my forever family home being built. We have been living in our caravan since September 2021, so it will be lovely to enjoy the security of four solid walls again.

Congratulations again Jamie and thank you for your time.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

23

2022

WAUCHOPE

SHOW

T

he Wauchope Show is on again after a 2-year “Covid” break. It must be such a wonderful feeling for all involved.

Tell us what are you looking forward to the most? The two year break has given us time to complete some much needed improvements, which we are looking forward to showing off. Our new grandstands will seat the largest of crowds in comfort and the new stables, poultry shed and animal nursery will see our animals accommodated in style.

What can our readers expect from this year’s show? We have Dairy Cattle, Beef Cattle, Poultry, Goats, Equestrian and Woodchopping. The main ring entertainment includes Walter Whip, fireworks, FMX Kaos motorbikes, Demo Derby and trots.

24 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

The grand parade takes place on Saturday followed by the official opening with invited dignitaries and the sashing of the Wauchope Show Young Woman. Side Show Alley is back, plus Animal nursery, Reptile Solutions display, and Roving Dinosaurs to entertain the children, as well as the many trade sites selling a variety of things such as food, leather goods, jewellery, clothing, cosmetics, temporary tattoos, and telecommunications. The Wauchope Show Society Ladies Auxiliary’s Tea Rooms will be open with a variety of delicious home cooked goodies.

The Show Society received grants that

have helped tremendously, can you tell us a bit more about this? We have been lucky enough to receive multiple grants for replacement of all the stables, grandstands, a new toilet block, complete refurbishment of the poultry shed and new security gates.

Recently we received notification of a grant to refurbish the historical school building currently used as an office.

Where can we purchase our tickets to attend this year’s Wauchope Show?

Tickets can be purchased on our website wauchopeshowsociety.com.au or at the gate.

Dine and Discover vouchers can be used also.

3 MONTHS FREE MANAGEMENT FEE WHEN YOU MOVE YOUR PROPERTY TO US!

We pride ourselves on providing the most professional service in the area. Ensuring all our properties receive the most exposure possible price or return when listed with our team. Changing from your current agent can happen quickly, at no cost to you, even if there is a current rental agreement in place. Elders Lifestyle Property Managers are rental provider advocates, in every respect. Our mission is to provide you, our property owners, with complete peace of mind. With a dedicated full time, Property Management & Sales Team now based in Wauchope – we have you covered.

RICHARD SHEEN Property Management

An integral part of the Lifestyle Group Team, Richard has been with Elders for over 15 years.

LOGAN TAFFE Sales

Meet our Elders Lifestyle Group WAUCHOPE TEAM!

Logan is a born and bred local growing up in Beechwood. A professional and friendly sales agent he loves connecting buyers and sellers with their dream property and helping them to live the lifestyle of their dreams. Logan and the Wauchope office are extremely proud to receive an award for the Number 1 Office in Growth at the recent Elders NSW Awards Night held in Sydney!

MATT KING Sales

Another born and bred local Matt King brings a wealth of local knowledge to the Wauchope office. A new member to the team after a career change as qualified Carpenter, Matt not only knows the local area but is also experienced in the building industry which is fantastic for his clients obtaining an extra insight into property values and potential renovation options.

Your commercial real estate specialist

INTRODUCING ANDREW DUCK

Working in the beautiful Mid North Coast, Andrew specialised in sales and leasing of commercial, industrial and retail properties at Elders Lifestyle Group.

Andrew accounts a lot of his success, from being highly organised and with a strong desire to succeed. With meticulous attention to detail he is able to create and keep positive relationships with vendors, landlords and tenants, right from the beginning of their working relationship.

Andrew prides himself on his integrity and believes that communication and following through on your commitments is the key to being successful in COMMERCIAL AGENT real estate. Andrew has the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to 0410 981 799 ensure his clients achieve the best possible result.

Andrew Duck

100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

PORT MACQUARIE

CLASSIC BIKE

Club

LANCE MUNRO Lance Munro is the President of the Port Macquarie Classic Bike Club and is on the organising committee for their Classic Bike Show which will be held on Sunday 24th April at the Settlers Inn Hotel. The event is open to bikes over 30 years old and proceeds will go to the palliative care unit at Wauchope Hospital.

H

i Lance. Can you tell us a bit about the Port Macquarie Classic Bike Club and how it all started?

The club was started in 2011 by John Butler. He had bought a 1970s Ducati 750GT and thought that it would be good to find some other owners of similarly aged bikes, with a view to going on some rides together. He then had the idea of starting a club for classic bike enthusiasts – there was no such club in Port Macquarie at that time, the nearest ones being in Taree and Coffs Harbour.

There were 13 members initially. John is the club’s only life member.

When did you get involved with the club and what’s your role there?

I have been a member of the club for about six years, having joined soon after moving to Port from Sydney. I had retired early and was looking for something to do in my spare time, so I bought a 1966 Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle that needed a fair bit of work. I joined the club to get more information on how to complete the restoration and to get the bike on to historic registration once the bike

26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

was rideable. I am the current President, having shed!). been Treasurer previously. I have also been on My current bikes are the 1966 Triumph the organising committee for the previous two Thunderbird, a 1986 Yamaha SRX 600 single bike shows. and a Kawasaki Z1R which is a work in Can you tell us a bit about its members progress (and has been for four years). and the kind of bikes they have?

What do you enjoy about being part of the We currently have Classic Bike Club? about 100 members.

There is a great sense Many are middle aged of camaraderie among I joined the gentlemen, but we do the members. Our club to get have some younger rides normally involve more information riders and a few female having a coffee or lunch on how to complete members. As a “classic somewhere, where the restoration and bike club” the bikes you get a chance to to get the bike on to have to be 30 years old catch up with members or more to be eligible and talk about their historic registration for club registration. latest bike acquisitions, once the bike was The oldest bikes that modifications or rideable. get ridden on club rides workshop disasters. are a 1927 Triumph You can get away from 500TT, a 1948 BSA 500 everything else in your and a 1953 AJS 500. A lot of 1980s Japanese life, go on a ride and then talk about it with superbikes are now also eligible, so a ride day like-minded individuals at the destination. can have a wide variety of bikes in attendance.

Given the ages of the bikes, breakdowns are Many members own multiple machines (you not uncommon but there is always someone can never have too many bikes – the numbers there to lend a hand, whether that be tools or are only limited by the space you have in your a bike recovery by trailer.

That camaraderie is also there when members The show is may need support open to all through the tough times bikes that are 30 that life invariably throws years old or more. up. I have made some Registrations will good friends through the commence on the club.

The club is hosting a day at 8am and there bike show this month is an entry fee of $5 on Sunday 24th April, per bike. how long has this event been held for Spectator entry is by and what’s it all about? a gold coin donation Most Classic Bike clubs will put on some sort and all proceeds go to the palliative care of large event each year or so. A lot will put unit of Wauchope Hospital, why was it on a rally but we wanted to do something a important to the club to donate to the bit different so John Butler initiated the Classic hospital?

Bike Show. This is the sixth one that the club One of our original members, Brett Poole, has hosted. All have been in the car park of the spent his last days in the palliative care unit Settlers Inn Hotel and we are very appreciative at Wauchope Hospital and we feel that it is of the space and support that they give us. The important to honour his memory and this is a show is also a way for us to raise funds to help practical way to do it. a local charity.

What do you hope the funds raised will be What are the requirements for people able to do for the hospital? wanting to bring bikes along?

The funds raised from the last show were The show is open to all bikes that are 30 put towards the purchase of wider beds so that years old or more. Registrations will commence partners of palliative care patients could spend on the day at 8am and there is an entry fee of more time with their loved one, in comfort. $5 per bike. Spectator entry is by a gold coin What other sorts of things do you get up donation. Trophies will be awarded in various to as a club? categories based on the age of the bike – eg As a general rule, the club has two “coffee Best Bike 1950s, Best Bike 1960s, etc. rides” and one longer ride each month.

The “coffee rides” are reasonably short and are suitable for the older bikes (and probably the older members). We meet at the Town Beach headland and then decide where to ride – somewhere like Beechwood or the Camden Haven area. The longer ride destinations are pre-determined with only the route to be decided on the day.

In past years (pre-Covid) we have visited the Maritime Museum’s Hibbard workshop and the Newman Technical College engineering campus. We also have a Christmas dinner and last year had a dinner to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the formation of the club.

How can people find out more about the club and this upcoming event?

Visit our website pmclassicbikes.com.au and then click on the Event Calendar tab for details of the show. For information on joining the club, click on the Join Us tab on our website.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

27

HUMANS BEWARE!

CARNIVALS

of thSe ABNAIMC KAL! I

W

hen you’ve been swooped by a giant tie-dye turtle, or an ultraviolet fish party begins mid-show, you know you’re at The Carnival of the Animals.

For 5 years, our local production company, Got Ya Back Productions have been bringing live theatre to this area. This fully-tactile and joyous production of Carnival of the Animals is, according to Got Ya Back Director, Steph Maddren, “a true celebration of the creative talents that live within this region”.

Uniquely, every aspect of this touring production, under the guidance of renowned Sydney-based director Nicholas Christo, has been conceived, designed, built, rehearsed and performed by local artists. “We also wouldn’t have such a beautiful production without the design and performance input from our fantastic local artists.”

Carnival of the Animals premiered in Port Macquarie in June 2021 and completed 17 of their 28 show season. However, COVID restrictions shut down this season on June 26th. We are thrilled that they have

28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

come back to finish what they started. As Steph says “We wouldn’t be able to do this unless we had the enthusiasm from the community. It’s such an important connection to us. Many disappointed people missed out on seeing it last year and have rebooked.

And quite a few There are just audience members are 100 seats per coming back to see it show and NSW again!”

Discover Vouchers Steph’s husband and and Parents NSW fellow performer, Tim which are usually used as Vouchers all Maddren said, “When the perfect introduction the confetti first falls accepted at all into the world of classical or the colour-ball fight performances so get music, are reworked and starts up mid-show, in quick... in this production used as it’s just awesome to the perfect re-entry or first see the fun light up in entry into the magic of live the eyes of not only the kids but the grown theatre. ups! We hope this show is a reminder of Built as a major touring production, with the how joyous theatre can be.” The show help of Arts Mid North Coast, Regional Arts itself is a leaf-blowing blast of colour, fun, Australia and Create NSW, the Carnival will confetti and music all based from the then leave town after its 13 shows to begin famous work of French composer, Camille touring to other parts of the state from August, starting in Coffs Harbour.

Saint-Saëns. The original 14 pieces of music,

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

29

focus_interview

JAMES SINGLE PORT MACQUARIE GOLF CLUB

Port Macquarie Golf Club Professional James Single has recently been awarded PGA National Club Professional of the year after winning state PGA Club Professional of the year across both NSW and ACT.

H

i James. Congratulations on this prestigious recognition. Please tell us a little about what this award means to you?

This award means the world to me. I was honoured to win the NSW/ACT award as I had not won that before after being nominated 4 times for the State award previously. To win that award was certainly a goal of mine. But to win the National award was above and beyond what I thought I could achieve. So I am extremely proud of it and humbled at the same time.

The club recently honoured your achievements at an event last month with community members coming together to celebrate you. Tell us a little about the night?

They did and it was an awesome night.

I tested positive to Covid two days before I was meant to leave for Brisbane to attend the Greg Norman Medal awards night where the National award was going to be announced.

I had organised a table of staff to attend the night and when I couldn’t attend 30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

I love seeing someone who hasn’t played before hit a great shot and sharing their success.

It can be a difficult game to master and it is important to celebrate our little wins along the way.

we were all very disappointed. Being told that I was the National PGA Club Professional of the year for 2021 over the phone and on social media was great initially, and then we were all a bit bummed that we couldn’t celebrate together.

So Nikki Bailey (one of my wonderful staff members and great friend) organised the night with the Golf Club and we then sent out an open invitation to the members of the Golf Club. We had around 100 people come along and celebrate with me. I have said to a few people since the night that I think the night held at the Golf Club would have been better than the actual awards night as I got to celebrate with friends, family and especially the members of the Port Macquarie

Golf Club. Celebrating with people that I know made the night more intimate and enjoyable.

It was a lovely night and we made up for missing out on the official night.

You have a long history in the sport and have been running Port Macquarie’s Pro Shop for the past eight years. What do you most love about your role?

I love to help grow the game of golf from a grass roots level. I love seeing someone who hasn’t played before hit a great shot and sharing their success. It can be a difficult game to master and it is important to celebrate our little wins along the way. It creates a very nice atmosphere to work in when players are happy and come in to the

Port Macquarie Pro Shop excited to play.

I love seeing kids play the game as well.

Golf has a bad reputation as being just for the wealthy people in our society or for being elitist, and I like to show that it is a great game that is for absolutely everyone, male or female, boys or girls, black or white, young or old. You can play the game until you are aged in your 90’s so the earlier you can get started in the game the better you will be when you are older.

Looking back you must have a few playing achievements in the sport. Can you share one or two with us?

I would say these recent State and National Awards would be high on the list for sure. Although there aren’t many playing Dad would achievements I would always take say that the people that me away and be I have met along the there to support way through my journey my progress playing golf and the when he could connections that I have made around the world have been doing continue doing that and the friendships that his own things over the next year. will last a lifetime is on a weekend.

Over the last few certainly the best thing years I have made a that I take away from big push at getting playing golf. It is a great more women playing golf. Swing Fit is a very game for meeting new people and no matter popular program that I have been running where you go in the world there will be a golf course or someone who loves to play not at the Port Macquarie Golf Club for a few years now. It is a program that is for women far away. only and it touches on keeping/getting active One of the best things that I was able to and learning to play the game of golf while do was to thank my Dad for his involvement making some new friends along the way. The in developing my golf game as a junior social side of Swing Fit has been the best part golfer. Dad would always take me away of the program, after each class we go for a and be there to support my progress when drink and get to know everyone a bit better. he could have been doing his own things Everyone who has taken part in a swing on a weekend. I think that he was every fit class has really enjoyed themselves. So I bit as proud as I was when I became a Golf will continue to run those classes and even Professional. So to thank him a few years ago introduce a few fun events for women only I played in the Tahiti Open and I paid for him on top of our Swing Fit classes. to come along and watch. It was great to get Keeping in line with Swing Fit I have just away and spend some time together. It was a started a girls only program to grow the nice way to say thank you for all that he has game for women at a younger age. Girls who done for my golf game.

Golf is something that I would like to see What is on the horizon for you for the year ahead? grow quite a bit. This first term of school this Game development and teaching the game year has been a bit of a trial seeing how the of golf is what I love doing so I will definitely program works before I open it up for every

girl to come and try. We run regular junior clinics at the Port Macquarie Golf Club but I have found it hard to keep the girls interested especially if they are outnumbered by the boys. So I am hoping that this will really get a lot more girls playing the game.

I will still go to schools and deliver introductions to golf at the schools around Port Macquarie along with delivering individual lessons at the Port Macquarie Golf Club. On top of that I will work with my awesome team of staff in stocking and running one of the best Pro Shops in the Country so that the people of Port Macquarie can come and see us for all of their golfing needs. So there is a fair bit planned for the year ahead. Hopefully the weather is a bit nicer moving forward than what it has been so far this year.

If anyone is interested in knowing more about our programs or interested in playing golf they should definitely come in and say hello. We would be very happy to help you out and get you ready to play this great game.

Thanks James. Interview: Sarah Baker.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

31

Photo Credit: Chenoa Deemal & Aaron McGrath in Black Cockatoo, photographed by Prudence Upton

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENTS A N E N S E M B L E T H E AT R E P R O D U C T I O N

BLACK

COCKATOO

BY GEOFFREY ATHERDEN DIRECTED BY WESLEY ENOCH

A legendary story inspired

by Australian cricket royalty Johnny Mullagh, and Australia’s first-ever international sporting team, the First XI.

W

“

hat would it have meant for Aboriginal Australia if we celebrated these stories in the day, in a way that the whole nation could understand?” Black Cockatoo director, Wesley Enoch, encourages viewers to ponder while enjoying his new artistic collaboration with iconic Australian writer Geoffrey Atherden.

Sport is the great unifier across age, gender, culture and religion, and Black Cockatoo is a play that allows audiences to hold onto the familiar, whilst experiencing the immensely relevant story centred on experiences of First Nations people.

This is the story of Australian Cricket Hall of Fame inductee, Johnny Mullagh, and his team of brave Aboriginal cricketers who picked up their cricket bats and embarked on a voyage to England and into the unknown over 150 years ago. They were the first team from anywhere in the world to play against the English in the home of cricket, and they amazed the crowds with astonishing talent, personality and grit.

Moving seamlessly between the past and the present, the play unpacks varying perspectives by including a narrative that explores what it is like as a contemporary Aboriginal Australian to be connecting with this story today.

32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

sporting hero, In the modern day, It’s a great story Unaarramin, known as when a group of young and, I think, an Johnny Mullagh.” activists sneaks into important story, a part “It’s a great story and, Wimmera Discovery of the shared history I think, an important Centre to expose the story, a part of the between black and truth of what happened shared history between to Johnny and his white Australia. It’s also black and white teammates, a funny about the truth; about Australia. It’s also about and moving legend of which truth we choose the truth; about which triumph and tragedy to tell and why we make truth we choose to tell unfolds. that choice. and why we make that This truly was choice.”

Australia’s first FACT: Since 2019, Cricket Australia have international cricket team – with Australia’s awarded The Mullagh Medal, an award given first Indigenous sporting hero, Johnny to Player of the Match in the Boxing Day Test Mullagh, and this play is a celebration and a held annually at the MGC. reflection on an Australian story that should Although cricket is undoubtedly a central be told. theme of the show, the average punter can “There’s a real power in understanding our enjoy the overall sense of celebration and history, and understanding that Aboriginal maybe even a stronger understanding of our people have been participating and touring nation’s culture. This is not just a story about the world in the case of the cricket and cricket – this is story of strength, resilience, engaging in the world, not just for the last hope and possibility.

230 years, but for millennia,” Director Wesley Do not miss seeing this unique Australian Enoch comments, “These stories, and telling theatre production and getting to know these stories on the stage, is one of the ways some of Australia's most endearing cricketing in which we can ignite conversation.” characters.

Playwright Geoffrey Atherden goes on to Saturday 23 April, 8pm at Glasshouse Port explain: “Black Cockatoo is based on this Macquarie little known piece of our history. It’s a story of BOOK NOW at glasshouse.org.au triumph and tragedy, promises and betrayal, CONTENT WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait people smuggling (in the other direction) Islander audiences are advised that Black Cockatoo contains depictions of deceased people. and it celebrates Australia’s first Indigenous

Expand your entertaining area Effortlessly expand your entertaining area and combine your outdoor and indoor areas with a custom bi-fold window, which can be designed with an integrated insect screen.

MADE TO ORDER to suit your home

MULTIPANEL BI-FOLDS WITH CUSTOM CONFIGURATIONS FOR SERVERIES, PATIOS, AND ENTERTAINING AREAS.

WE ALSO SPECIALISE IN: • Sliding doors, multi stacking sliding, and french doors.

• Louvres & hinged entry doors • Gas strut windows • Commercial doors and windows.

Oxley Nu-Look Windows manufacture and install throughout the local region with our team of in- house trades and associated builders.

P. 02 65811763 E. info@nu-look.com.au oxleynulookwindows nu-look.com.au Photo By Gavin Moroney, and courtesy of Dean Edgar Builders.

Book a FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

87

CARL

SMITH IRONMAN Australia is celebrating its 35th birthday this year and for the first time since 2015 it’s holding its IRONKIDS event at Camden Haven on Sunday 24th April.

H

i Carl. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role with IRONMAN Australia?

I’m Regional Director for The IRONMAN Group Oceania and as a part of that oversee IRONMAN Australia, which is incredibly exciting as we prepare to hold the event for the first time since 2019, and also celebrate its 35th anniversary. I’ve been involved in the event for a number of years, and more recently spent time working with IRONMAN 34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

in Asia. I’m looking forward to welcoming athletes back to Port Macquarie on Sunday 1st May. IRONMAN Australia has its 35th anniversary this year, what will be happening to celebrate?

We’re thrilled to be able to celebrate the 35th anniversary of IRONMAN Australia.

After the disruptions of the last two years it’s great to be in a position to finally be able to recognise this great occasion.

Leading into the event we’ll be bringing together our IRONMAN Australia Legends

for a special luncheon, where we’ll take the chance to look back on the proud history of the event. Aside from that there will be plenty of reminders of the 35th anniversary around town, along with a special finisher medal for all of our IRONMAN Australia athletes. The team is also putting together a special video package, looking back at the history of the event.

We are very excited to hear that IRONKIDS is making a comeback at Camden Haven on the 24th April, how did the IRONKIDS competition first

focus_interview

adventures when they turn 18. IRONKIDS is a great way to bring the community into the event, providing an opportunity for local families to get a taste of We look IRONMAN, and have fun forward to at the same time. seeing children from Could you tell us the local community about the event and come out and have a what’s involved? fun day. IRONKIDS IRONKIDS consists promotes a healthy of a swim, a ride and a run, all located at Bruce lifestyle, and being come about?

Porter Reserve and active while also IRONKIDS is an Laurieton United Services important part of having fun. We want Club on Sunday 24th IRONMAN around to see as many kids April. The event will be the world and we’re as possible in run between 7am and thrilled that we’re Camden Haven on 11am, with those in the able to hold it at the day, with plenty Family Wave, or aged IRONMAN Australia. of smiles! between seven and 11 All over the world years completing a 60m kids are able to get swim, 1.6km ride and involved in IRONMAN, 1km run, while participants aged between and we’ve seen plenty move up from 12 and 13 will take on a 120m swim, 3.2km IRONKIDS to complete their own IRONMAN ride and 2km run.

Who can enter the IRONKIDS event?

IRONKIDS is open to children between the ages of seven and 13.

What do you hope local kids get out of participating?

We look forward to seeing children from the local community come out and have a fun day. IRONKIDS promotes a healthy lifestyle, and being active while also having fun. We want to see as many kids as possible in Camden Haven on the day, with plenty of smiles!

What are you looking forward to most about IRONKIDS? We’re looking forward to seeing families out having fun, while being active.

IRONKIDS is a great way for families to do something active together, and we can’t wait to see them all come streaming over the finish line on Sunday 24th April.

Where can people get more information or register for the event?

To learn more about IRONKIDS, and to register, visit ironman.com/im-australiaregister GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

35

Thinking big: Local manufacturer John Belfield reveals The Big Koala to Hello Koalas director Margret Meagher. Next step: design and painting.

Photo: Lindsay Moller

T

his is such an exciting and innovative project for Hello Koalas to be involved in with Forestry NSW and project partners Koala Hospital Port Macquarie, Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council and the WildNets forest canopy experience.

Keep up with all the latest developments on The Big Koala and everything happening on the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail with the brand new FRIENDS OF HELLO KOALAS & THE BIG KOALA newsletter, available via email (subscribe on www.hellokoalas.com) or pick up a print version from the Hello Koalas Gift Shop.

Hello Koalas is inviting everyone to play a part in The Big Koala, which will become the landmark for Guulabaa, with funds raised from purchases of the exclusive Port Macquarie Monopoly from the Hello Koalas Gift Shop going directly to its creation. The special edition includes a unique silver Koala token modelled on Hello Koalas’ own design – that’s something no other Monopoly in the world has! And you will join the Friends of the Big Koala Honour Roll on www.hellokoalas.com WAKE UP TO NEW GIFTS New to the Hello Koalas Gift Shop is Peak Coffee’s freshly roasted “Australia” coffee, with beans from Newrybar NSW, hints of sweet guava, white peaches and lingering caramel and distinctive Hello Koalas sculpture design packaging. Peak Coffee is the first coffee-roasting business on the Mid North Coast.

Local Baba Lila handmade chocolates are 36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

available in delicious Australian native flavours, including Wild Lime, Davidson Plum ‘n Coconut and Lemon Myrtle.

In keeping with Hello Koalas’ commitment to the environment, the Gift Shop now has the all-natural Australian-made and plantbased Koala Eco products, from hand and body lotions to home cleaning products.

For kids and the young at heart, check out the cute new Sleeping Koala Snap Bands and Koala Key Rings. “They are Australiandesigned and will be the perfect little takehome for visitors, but will also be wonderful for locals to send to friends and family,” shop manager Vicki Eslick said. *The Hello Koalas Gift Shop opens MondayFriday 9am-3pm and Saturdays 9am-1pm at 16/10 Bellbowrie St, Port Macquarie, or purchase online at shop.hellokoalas.com HELLO KOALAS OVER EASTER Hello Koalas welcomes the Alfesta 2022 – the annual celebration of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Australia – to Port Macquarie from April 14-18. See their spectacular cars at the Alfesta Show and Shine on Town Green from 9am to 1pm on Easter Saturday, and visit Hello Koalas’ special stall, featuring Hello Koalas Port Macquarie mascot Radiant Heart.

Hello Koalas Gift Shop will be closed Good Friday, Easter Saturday (see us on Town Green instead) and Easter Sunday. We are open 9am to 1pm Easter Monday, for those last-minute gifts and souvenirs before people head home.

Grab your free Trail Map and see 15 Hello Koalas in one place!

Of course, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is open to discover throughout Greater Port

Plans at Hello Koalas are always big… but never bigger than the 2.5m-high Big Koala planned for the new tourism precinct called Guulabaa (Place of Koala), opening at Cowarra State Forest later this year.

Macquarie every day of the year, and it’s FREE! SOMETHING TO SING ABOUT Hello Koalas is a big supporter of all things artistic and Francessca O’Donnell’s Lady Lola, the Dancing Koala and PK Sparkles at the Glasshouse make many hearts sing!

Margret Meagher, founder of Hello Koalas, and director of The Australian Centre for Arts and Health, has partnered with producer Andrew McKinnon to present three of Australia’s favourite opera and musical theatre performers – Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Josh Piterman & Guy Noble in Concert at the Glasshouse Arts Centre on Thursday, May 19.

This is your chance to hear “Australia’s Phantom of the Opera” Josh Piterman before he takes up his Phantom role at Sydney’s Opera House, bass baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes who starred in recent productions of “South Pacific” and “The King and I”, and pianist and ABC Classic FM presenter Guy Noble.

Just the present for Mum with Mother’s Day on May 8. Book at Glasshouse Arts Centre on 6581 8888, email boxoffice@glasshouse.org. au or go to www.glasshouse.org.au Hello Koalas Gift Shop Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, Unit 16, 10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie.

0416 641 482 info@hellokoalas.com hellokoalas.com Share your favourite moments on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TripAdvisor, Google

www.hellokoalas.com

BELLBOWRIE PARK

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail and Hello Koalas Gift Shop is at home at Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, 10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444

FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL THAT SAYS “PORT MACQUARIE”

visit HELLO KOALAs

Top Trumps Card Game $9.95

Colouring Books $18.95

new Monopoly Port Macquarie $69.95, including exclusive Hello Koalas token

Tea Towels $26.95

PLUS: T shirts, Magnets, Badges, Stickers, Notebooks, Art Books, Tote Bags, Koala Eco personal products, Baba Lila handmade chocolates, Peak Coffee “Australia”, and a range of koala-themed soft toys, keyrings, snapbands, cushions and rugs.

Say “Hi” to 15 Hello Koalas Sculptures all in the one place!

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

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

OPENING HOURS Mon to Fri 9am - 3pm, Sat 9am - 1pm Closed Good Friday & Easter Saturday Open Easter Monday 9am -1pm

find us on

shop

ONLINE

www.hellokoalas.com and click on the GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 83 “Shop” tab

PHOTOS BY LANI LOUISE

focus_interview

ARCHIE ROACH

Archie Roach is a singer, songwriter, musician and storyteller who has been a powerful voice for Indigenous Australians for many years.

He has been recording award winning albums for over 30 years and he will be performing his incredible songs in Coffs Harbour at the Jetty Theatre on 5th and 6th April.

H

i Archie. When would you say your love of music began?

Ever since I can remember really, way back since I was a child. It began with my foster family really. I had my foster father, he was a Scotsman from Glasgow, and he had a great collection of music, old LP albums. Beautiful, beautiful records. He looked after them really well. He didn't just play traditional Scottish music, he played a lot of different music, all sorts. And I just loved listening to all those songs, those albums. Their daughter, my sister Mary, played the organ at a local church we went to and I used to love listening to her play.

We’d sit around the organ while she played and I’d sing songs. So yeah it’s been there since I was a child. I've always had a love of music.

Can you tell our readers about your iconic song ‘Took The Children Away’ and what inspired it?

I started writing songs when I stopped drinking, back in the day now. A lot of years 38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

ago. I was writing a lot of country type songs inspiration from for your songs over the at that time, which I thought were alright years? at the time. My Uncle Banjo came up to me Well for my first album or so I got a lot of my one time, when I was out at the old Mission inspiration from my own experience, then later where we were originally from, and he said on I guess you can only write so much about “so I’ve heard you’ve your own past experience been writing some and then you either songs boy?” and I said experience new things I love this “oh well I try Uncle”... that inspire you or you country.

He said “why don’t you start looking elsewhere.

Sitting out on the write a song about when I found I loved talking land, down by the you were taken away?” to other people, sitting beach or the river I responded that I was down and yarning with or out in the bush, only young when I was them, and hearing their the inspiration I get taken, I don’t remember stories. I also love the from that brings everything about it. And land, I love this country. about songs too. he looked at me straight Sitting out on the land, in the eyes and said down by the beach or the “yeah, but I do”. And he river or out in the bush, sat down and told me the story, and that night the inspiration I get from that brings about I wrote some of the song and finished it off in songs too. the morning! So that’s how that song came to Who have been some of your biggest be. musical influences?

Where have you continued to draw Well back in the day I started writing country

music because I like listening to country. Hank Williams is probably a big influence from back in the day, and other people like Otis Redding.

In Australia there were people like old Slim Dusty, Buddy Williams and of course my old mate Paul Kelly! Even before I met Paul, you just knew Paul Kelly songs. When I first met him, and I heard him play, I thought “I know this song, how do I know this song?” but nearly every second song you heard on the radio back then was a Paul Kelly song. So his early stuff especially, I just love the way he wrote songs. I could go on, I suppose.

It’s been over 30 years since the release of ‘Charcoal Lane’ and ‘Took The Children Away’, what have been some of your career highlights over that time for you personally?

I met Paul Simon. Paul Simon came to my house in Melbourne. And then the next day we went chatting around the community and the organisations. Then opening for Dylan at the State Theatre in Sydney, and for people like Tracy Chapman, so many really. The first time I went to America, which I think that it’s was the first time I went important but I overseas. We toured over didn’t expect any of there, I’d already done the awards I got, but my second album ‘Jamu I really appreciate it.

Dreaming’, but suddenly a record company in America It makes me think picked up the album and maybe I am doing and the Australian I decided to go with it. something right.

Art Orchestra, a show And so then I went over called Kura Tungar, and toured that album in which in Ruby’s America. language means River Songs and Stories. And You have been inducted into the ARIA Hall so yes, people just see us on stage, singing of Fame among many other awards for songs and maybe telling yarns about the songs. your contribution to music, what do those And then we see what goes on behind the acknowledgements mean to you? scenes, and that’s what's really good about the Well I think it's great to be recognised for film, it shows rehearsing and some funny things what you do. So I think that it's important but that happened. There’s a bit of work that goes I didn't expect any of the awards I got, but I into it before a show, especially a big show like really appreciate it. It makes me think maybe I that one. am doing something right.

Can you tell us about why you set up the A film ‘Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow’ Archie Roach Foundation, what it’s all has been created about yourself and your wife and fellow artist Ruby Hunter, can you about and what your hopes are for the Foundation? tell us a bit about the film and what it was It’s just to walk alongside up and coming like to document it all? singer songwriters, musicians, but not just It was just a moment in time when we did that, anybody, maybe someone that wants to this show back in 2004 with Paul Grabowsky

produce a show. We backed Jessie Loyd with her Mission Songs project, and that became a really phenomenal show actually. Then there’s the Kitchen Table Yarns I do on my Youtube channel with singer songwriters, artists and producers. So it’s all really about walking alongside and supporting other people that want to work in the music industry really.

You are performing here in Coffs Harbour at the Jetty Theatre on 5th and 6th April, can you tell us about what we can expect from this tour?

We have released an anthology of a lot of my work, over 40 songs. So we’ll be rehashing some of those songs with a small combination that I have; it’s usually a double bass, a guitarist and a violin player. That’s about it. We don't have a big band anymore but that lets the song breathe nicely.

Thanks Archie.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

39

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF LUMINOSITY! CAN YOU HELP SPONSOR 10 YOUNG PEOPLE TO ATTEND?

106 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

107 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_interview

ALLY

PATON P H O T O G R A P H Y

Port Macquarie local photographer Ally Paton is passionate about the arts, photography and finding time for herself as a busy mum!

H

i Ally. I know you wear many hats, including life as a busy mum and partner, but your passion as a photographer and artist shows extraordinary skill. How do you fit it all in and where do you draw your inspiration?

Life is definitely busy with my family, working full time, my photography and fitting in all my other hobbies! A lot of it is having a bit of a routine to get everything done but mostly it just works.

The inspiration for my photography is everything around me. It’s really taught me to look at the world differently and things that I used to walk past without giving a second thought too, I now stop and look at. Things from dead flowers to birds in my backyard, sunsets and the list goes on.

When I’m capturing memories for people, I love to try and get to know them either before

42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

their session or during their session so when I capture them their personality shines through.

When did you first pick up a camera and what is it you love about the craft?

I’ve had a camera in my hand for as long as I can remember. My first camera was a point and shoot film camera when I was young and I used to love taking pictures of anything and everything. I always loved taking the photos but there was something exciting about taking the film to be developed and seeing images that came out great and the images that weren’t so fabulous too, it was all part of the fun. I still have a box of all my early photos along with the negatives in my cupboard.

It was after the birth of my son in 2007 that I really became a memory catcher. I purchased my first digital SLR and started learning how to edit the photos I’d taken. I wanted to document as many moments as I could for him so he had memories to look back on when he was older. Every year I create

me to get creative.

Tell us a little about your artistry expertise and what you most like to create.

a photobook for him which is nice to look through to remember little things that you might normally forget.

I love the creative freedom that photography gives me. My photography is always evolving and, like many artists, I can look back at my work that I’ve done over the years and look at where I am today and see the growth and change that has happened over time. I’m always trying to learn new things to better my photography.

What type of equipment do you predominantly use?

I started with a Sony A100 as my first DSLR which was a great introduction to the world

My photography is always evolving and, like many artists, I can look back at my work that I’ve done over the years and look at where I am today and see the growth and change that has happened over time.

of digital photography.

I’m now primarily a Nikon shooter for both of my camera bodies and lenses and also have a Sigma and Tamron lens in the mix too that I love. All of my editing is done on an Apple Mac. Depending on what I’m shooting, I use a mix of prime lenses and zoom lenses. The zoom lenses are great as I don’t need to be too close to what I’m shooting and allow me to capture more of the scene around me while the prime lenses force

I’m self taught, having learnt what I know by reading everything and anything I could on photography, completing short courses online and completing some workshops with a local photographer. Shooting in natural light is my favourite, especially late in the afternoon as the sun is starting to go down and the sky

starts lighting up with the pretty colours of the sunsets. Natural light can create such different moods in an image depending on the light at the time of day.

Continued over...

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

43

I love creating images both for myself and my clients. With my son getting older, he’s not as happy to be in front of the camera as he used to be so I’ve had to find other subjects to photograph. I stumbled upon macro photography on a photography forum I joined. I started looking at flowers, leaves and insects in more detail and seeing their beauty from a different perspective. Another personal project I’ve been working on is bird photography. We are lucky enough to have lots of different bird species in our backyard that I can photograph. Each one has a different personality and it can make photographing some of them quite challenging.

When I’m creating portraits for my clients, I want them to be able to look back on them and for it to remind them of a moment in time. Photos are a way of freezing time and it’s so important for everyone to be in the photos. It’s all about them and their stories that generations to come can look back on.

What have been some of your highlights looking back?

There’s been so many highlights when I look back. On a personal level I entered the 44 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Wauchope Show and Kendall Show Since then, in seperate I’ve loved years and being able was awarded to capture Photography everyone’s Champion of unique stories. both shows. I Some of the was featured on stories have turned the front page of into chapter books the local newspaper Another that I’ve been lucky to for my New Year’s personal capture as their story fireworks image and project I’ve been grows. most recently I was working on is bird Can you describe a Highly Commended photography.

We are little about yourself for my image set that lucky enough to behind the lens?

I entered in Capture When I’m behind the have lots of different Magazine’s Emerging lens I like to guide my bird species in our Photographer last year. clients and have them On a business level backyard that I can interact with each other it’s been taking the photograph. to create natural organic step to start my little moments. It helps them business. Photography to forget I’m there and the relaxed feel has always been a hobby for me and with really shows in the images. As I’m taking my a gentle push from family and friends, I’ve turned my hobby into my own business. images I often have a vision of how I would

I’d love to keep capturing those special moments for people whether it’s to update their family portraits, have maternity portraits done or welcoming their precious new baby with newborn portraits.

like them to look when I present them finished to my clients.

The Mid North Coast region offers such a picturesque landscape to foster creativity and photography. What is it you love most about living in Port Macquarie?

Having grown up in Sydney, we moved to the Mid North Coast 10 years ago for a better way of life away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. I love that there’s so many beautiful locations on the Mid North Coast to photograph that are right on our doorstep from the beautiful beaches, walking tracks and lush

green landscapes of the country areas. It’s the perfect setting for creating beautiful landscapes or using as backdrops for portraits.

What is on the horizon for you as we head into 2022?

This year, I’m looking forward to being able to grow as an artist both personally and professionally. I’d love to keep capturing those special moments for people whether it’s to update their family portraits, have maternity portraits done or welcoming their precious new baby with newborn portraits.

I’d especially love to shoot more small intimate weddings and elopements.

Away from the camera where would we find you spending your own time?

When I’m away from the camera, I enjoy being with my family and pottering around home doing odd jobs or taking time out for some of my other hobbies. I’ve recently discovered resin art which is so much fun!

When the weather is nice I enjoy getting out on my motorbike with my partner and exploring our beautiful country.

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

All of my recent work can be found either on Instagram @Allypatonphotography or Facebook on my page Ally Paton Photography. I also have a website coming soon that I’m working on.

Thanks Ally. Interview: Sarah Baker.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

45

DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH TASTY EASTER TREATS 36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

from URBAN GRAIN BAKERY

DINING GUIDE

Your local Club

P O RT C I T Y B O W L I N G C LU B

$ 2 2 W E E K LY SPECIALS CLASSIC ROAST SUNDAY STEAK MONDAY CHICKEN SCHNITZEL TUESDAY AROUND THE WORLD THURSDAY *INCLUDES A FREE BEVERAGE | CONDITIONS APPLY

LUNCH 11.3OAM - 2PM DINNER FROM 5.30PM

Bookings Essential

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

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

47

DINING GUIDE

48 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

HELLO SAILOR

TIM DUNN PART OWNER/BAKER – URBAN GRAIN

T

ell us what a typical day at Urban Grain Bakery looks like?

I always start the day in the afternoon where I begin with croissant production where I roll our butter into the croissant dough. It then continues with bread and pastry production for our business and retail customers the following day. Then we get onto sourdough production, which will then sit and ferment overnight and will only get baked the following day.

EASTER EDITION HELLO COTTONTAIL MARTINI Whipped Vanilla Vodka, Coconut Infused Rum, Coconut Cream, Pineapple Juice reduction topped with Easter egg shavings BUNNY POWER MARGIE Reposado Tequila, Bitter Orange Liqueur, Spiced Ginger Syrup, Orange & Carrot Juice reduction, Salted Rim and a Dutch Carrot

Urban Grain has the most delicious savoury and sweet options, where do you get your ideas from? Dan Lepard from Baker and Spice as well as Nancy Silverton from La Brea Bakery.

What is your favourite to make and what do your customers love the most?

Definitely croissants. It reminds me of working in London where I first started learning the craft.

And they’re our customers’ favourite too, along with our almond croissants.

What would you say makes Urban Grain not your normal everyday bakery? The quality of the ingredients we use. The flour first and foremost. We have recently changed over to using Organic Flour, still supplied by Wholegrain Milling in Gunnedah.

It’s stoneground flour making our products more wholesome.

When you aren’t cooking up a storm in the bakery what can we find you doing? Riding my motorbike up to Gingers Creek and doing a few laps up there!

I also love to have breakfast at Coast and The Hill as well as Bonny Hills Garden Cafe, just some my many favourites.

0423 545 258 info@urbangrainbakery.com.au 7 Peachtree Walk Arcade (Hay St) GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

49

DAY OR NIGHT, SUNNY OR GREY, ENJOY OUR HOUSE-MADE BREAKFAST, EVERYDAY.

F E L I X BRE WHAVE N HEAD CHEF

50 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Situated opposite the Camden Haven Inlet, our cafe has spectacular views of the water, with a picturesque North Brother Mountain backdrop. A great place to relax and enjoy our food, specialty coffee and teas. We specialise in creating coffee and teas from our Brew Bar. Our Mission is to always create great food & great coffee, sourced from local produce.

H

i Paul, when did you first become interested in cafe/hospitality as a career? I was reluctantly dragged to my brother’s restaurant when I was very young to wash dishes and peel hundreds of kilos of potatoes for chipping. It was by no means love at first sight but over time the atmosphere, kitchen banter and organised chaos became addictive.

What training did you undertake and Our Bouillabaisse where was your first would have to job? After finishing high one of my favourites. school I went on to do a 4 year national diploma We have customers in commercial cookery at revisit from all over King George V catering Australia to have it. It’s college in Liverpool, an ode to how relevant customers revisit from England. On completion traditional techniques all over Australia to I went on to do a further are. have it. It’s an ode 2 years training with to how relevant Christiana Mo in the Latin traditional techniques Quarter of Paris. After are. a lot of travel around Europe I returned to England and took over as head chef of Metz Where does your inspiration come from Manchester. when creating a new menu? Inspiration What is your favourite dish on the Brewhaven menu? Our Bouillabaisse would have to one of my favourites. We have

kitchen who are encouraged to be creative.

be catered for by us and have trust in what we

Are you the cook at home as well, what do you enjoy creating when you are away from work? Haaa, nope. My wife Makaela is an absolute super woman, when she’s not out saving the world she’s menu planning the week and can be found in the kitchen at 5am baking for our 3 beautiful kids. In the evening I aspire to the late Keith Floyd, nice glass of red in hand. More survival than creativity.

produce. We have a very diverse team in the

Thanks Paul.

comes from our customers who are willing to

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

51

focus_contributor.

Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

D U N C H I S T H E N EW L I N N E R

F

olks keep your appetites in check… looks like there’s a new kid in town when it comes to dining out. And no it’s not a weird and wonderful new cuisine, trendy fusion concept, nor a phase two of molecular gastronomy.

Put it this way – have you ever had the sensation that you’ve missed the window of opportunity when it comes to grabbing lunch somewhere? You may have just finished a meeting or driven into town, or just plain old had a late brekkie and weren’t hungry till now – but whatever the case may be, presently in that temple that is your own body it is most definitely time for lunch!

Chances are (if you’re in this neck of the woods) if you miss that golden window from 12pm-2:30pm, your options automatically shrivel up into almost nothingness and you may just have to head to the golden arches or similar (not that there’s anything at all wrong with that in the slightest, we’ve all been there...).

But in the event you’re feeling a burning desire for a really decent feed and possibly hankering after some accompanying beverages of the alcoholic kind there’s a fledgling movement starting up, indeed in holiday hotspots up the coast.

52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Once brunch was the thing – and still is for sure. That slow and easy weekend merging of breakfast and lunch, ideally done mid-tolate morning. Often caffeine morphs into the realm of Bloody Mary to remedy a sore head from last night’s overindulgence. Occasionally a repeat of last night may occur in the form of someone suggesting a bottle of bubbles or two… hmmm doesn’t sound like a bad idea.

Definitely it has been proven very successfully that breakfast and lunch can become one…

But ladies and gentlemen we now have the pleasure of bringing you ‘linner’ or is it ‘dunch’?

Picture this, arriving at the restaurant at 3 or 4pm. Kicking back and enjoying the afternoon breeze with a cocktail and some delicious food and wine. Leaving full, sated and content by 6pm and with the rest of the evening to do as you please. Maybe a small supper is required before bed but the main meal is done and dusted.

Pretty civilised right? And just the ticket for when you’re in holiday mode… after all when you purposefully throw daily routines out the window it’s even nicer not to have to conform to strict mealtimes, rather have the opportunity to eat when you’re hungry, and enjoy that extra couple of hours of beach time.

It makes a lot of sense from the perspective

of restaurant operators too; running a single, albeit longer, service means no more split shifts for your team and a gentle flow of service as afternoon morphs into evening, and then into night.

Certainly sounds like a pretty good idea… but will it take hold on a bigger scale? After all it’s all very well to abandon routine when on vacation but what about when one must work? Of course, we’re still actively campaigning around here for the long lunch to make a comeback!

But it is indeed food for thought when considering the way things have changed of recent years… working from home or working remotely has become an option for many, and with lots of folks flocking to regional areas without fixed 9-5 schedules, well who knows what the future might hold?

Flexible dining opportunities might well have their place in this increasingly flexible world.

Whilst not advocating for messing with the 3 regular meals a day we all need to stay healthy and alert by any means, just sometimes, as we’ve all learned even more so recently, we just have to grab hold of opportunities to relax and enjoy whenever we get that particular ‘window’… and if it happens at 4pm on a Thursday, well it would be rather nice to walk into a lovely kind of dining establishment and seize the day!

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

39

focus_contributor.

GRAPE ESCAPE

NEWS FROM THE VINES

with ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines

W

inemaking can techniques, and providing some be influenced insight into their own regions’ by many wine making and grape growing dimensions, industries. such as seasonal variations, The benefits of these types of extreme weather conditions, soil exchanges bring a lot of value. types, cool climates or warm As part of my studies, I was climates – these are just some fortunate enough to work in of the many France which factors that gave me a contribute to As part of my whole new making a good studies, I was perspective on wine. fortunate enough to how my career

Another could develop in work in France ingredient that future. which gave me a we sometimes It’s through whole new take for exchanges of perspective on how granted is the ideas, cultures my career could collaboration and techniques develop in future. with industry that helps the colleagues and, wine industry when we get produce the opportunity, the knowledge a diverse range of skills, and experience we can share techniques are grape varieties with each other and learn from that contributes to Australia’s from each other. reputation as one of the best Over the next three months, we have the pleasure of hosting three international students who are honing their skills, learning about Australian wine making 54 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

producers of wines.

We look forward to having you come to visit our winery soon, and wish you a very Happy Easter.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

55

IT’S ALWAYS ABOUT LOCAL FOR US!

56 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Ken has always been the biggest advocate for supporting local farmers. This month I just couldn’t go past writing about the amazing ‘Old Fig Farm’ located in Hannam Vale. Helen and her beautiful family have supplied our ‘Little’ shop with limes for the past year.

on-the-farm materials to further

Their orchard has over 65 well established trees with absolutely no nasty chemicals used. How amazing is that! Where possible they fertilise and mulch with

encourage our local farmers.

reduce the carbon footprint of production.

Limes are full of antioxidants and vitamin C and, let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a fresh wedge of lime in that weekend beverage? Remember let’s Next time you see a ‘local’ sign, pick-up and buy. We live in a beautiful part of the world, ‘paradise’ as Ken says.

I

F

15TH A PR

L

R

ID

AY

EASTER

e fl f Ra

$2,000 WORTH

OF EASTER EGGS TICKETS FROM 2PM | DRAWN 4PM

DRIFT SEAFOOD SPECIALS AVAILABLE LUNCH & DINNER

FREE KIDS FACE PAINTING

44 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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

focus

43 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

TTLERS E S TO HOST

region's biggest

IN 2022

The tradition of 2UP on ANZAC Day is carried on through the years at Settlers Inn Hotel and 2022 is no exception.

S

tarting from 11am, the Settlers car park will be transformed into a hive of activity.

3pm with local musician Simon

lunch and from 5pm for dinner.

Gudgeon.

The Settlers courtesy bus runs throughout the day to get you home safely. Join us for another big ANZAC Day at Settlers.

‘ANZAC Day is a great day to remember but also to celebrate’

The 2UP ring, run by local

says publican Alistair Flower.

Rugby League Club, Port City

The rest of the venue remains

settlersinn.com.au

Breakers, will be the main

open and trading as usual. The

Settlersinnportmacquarie

event. Live music kicks off from

Bistro opens from 11:30am for

info@settlersinn.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

59

GIG GUIDE

T MACQUA POR RI R

P R I L

0

A

ROCK CITY SAINTS

2

2

E

GRE AT E

PURE ACOUSTIC

2

JACKSON JAMES FRIDAY 15TH THURSDAY, 7TH 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic Night 6.30pm Club North Haven Brody Ireland

FRIDAY 8TH 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Leigh I’Anson 5.30pm Wicked Elf Mark Bergin 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Rockabillies 6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Kyle Moore 6.30pm Wave Bowl Jonesy 7.30pm Bonny Hills Hotel Cheryl Hall and The Wisemen 7.30pm Laurieton Hotel Trev Hart 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Rock City Saints 8.00pm Finnians Tavern Bill Roberts

SATURDAY 9TH 9.00am Foreshore Markets Ruby Blunt 11.00am Sovereign Place Nikki Rudge 2.00pm Brew Haven Akoostik Chillz 4.00pm Wicked Elf Suave 6.30pm Little Turkey Heath Lancaster 6.30pm Wave Bowl EBD Duo 60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

7.00pm Fernhill Tavern Mr Stitches 7.30pm Bago Tavern Young Floyd 7.30pm Beechwood Hotel Jess Flanagan 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Geoff Jones 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Graham Howle 7.30pm Settlers Inn Leigh I’Anson 8.00pm Finnians Tavern Mum Says Rock 8.30pm Laurieton Hotel Funhouse

SUNDAY 10TH 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Besty 12.00pm Royal Hotel Kew Andrew Cousins 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Bill Roberts 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Nikki Rudge 4.00pm Club North Haven Jackson James

WEDNESDAY 13TH 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Nickolina River

THURSDAY 14TH 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic Night 6.30pm Club North Haven PepperJack

2.00pm Black Duck Brewery Madelyn 5.30pm Wicked Elf Akoostik Chillz 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Stevie B 6.00pm Laurieton Hotel Goody 2 Shoes 6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Mark Bergin 6.30pm Wave Bowl Maia Jackson 7.30pm Bonny Hills Hotel Jazz Sessions 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Finn Hoy

EASTER SATURDAY 16TH 1.00pm Wicked Elf Pam Hata 2.00pm Brew Haven Steve Bennett 7.30pm Bago Tavern Alter Ego 7.30pm Bonny Hills Hotel Funhouse 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Leigh I’Anson 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Gotcha Covered 7.30pm Settlers Inn Tanisha Palmer 7.30pm Wauchope Country Club Cheryl Hall and The Wisemen 8.00pm Finnians Tavern Slyder Band 8.30pm Laurieton Hotel Soundscape

BILL ROBERTS

MIKK (HOT TROPICS)

ROCKABILLIES EASTER SUNDAY 17TH 12.00pm Royal Hotel Kew Chris Rose 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Cheryl & Pete 3.00pm Laurieton Hotel Brody Ireland 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Leigh I’Anson 4.00pm Club North Haven Kyle Moore

EASTER MONDAY 18TH

WEDNESDAY 27TH 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Ruby Blunt

SATURDAY 23RD 11.00am Sovereign Place Mat Brooker 2.00pm Brew Haven James Bennett 4.00pm Wicked Elf Dave Javier 7.30pm Bago Tavern Geoff Jones 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Simon Gudgeon

4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Subvertigo

7.30pm Settlers Inn Steve Bennett

WEDNESDAY 20TH

8.00pm Finnians Tavern Smooth Moves

6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Dave Javier

THURSDAY 21ST 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic Night 6.30pm Club North Haven Leigh I’Anson

FRIDAY 22ND 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Young Floyd 5.30pm Wicked Elf Pure Acoustic 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Graham Howe 6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Dave Javier 6.30pm Wave Bowl The Southern Hold 7.30pm Laurieton Hotel Besty 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Jackson James

7.30pm Wave Bowl Dave Javier 8.30pm Laurieton Hotel Gotcha Covered

SUNDAY, 24TH 12.00pm Royal Hotel Kew Dave Javier 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Richie Gudgeon 2.00pm Long Flat Pub Heywood & Moore 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Steve Taylor

ANZAC DAY MONDAY 25TH 12.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Echo Bravo Delta 1.00pm Wauchope Country Club Pure Acoustic

THURSDAY 28TH 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic Night 6.30pm Club North Haven Besty

FRIDAY 29TH 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Dusty Soul 5.30pm Wicked Elf Dan Hopkins 6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Natalie Davis 6.30pm Wave Bowl Finn Hoy 7.00pm Fernhill Tavern Geoff Jones 7.30pm Laurieton Hotel Out of Nowhere Duo 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Acoustic Kick 8.00pm Finnians Tavern Electro Unplugged

SATURDAY 30TH 2.00pm Brew Haven Nikki Rudge 4.00pm Wicked Elf Natalie Davis 5.00pm Wave Bowl Hot Tropics - 6 Bands 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Slingshot Duo 6.30pm Little Turkey Bill Roberts 7.30pm Bago Tavern Ruby Blunt 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Dusty Soul 8.00pm Finnians Tavern Alter Ego 8.30pm Laurieton Hotel Electro Unplugged GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

61

focus_contributor.

Image by Lindsay Moller Productions

in theF RO N T

BAR with

ALISTAIR F L O W E R

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

C

hrissy, can you introduce yourself for those that don’t know you?

G’day folks, I’m Chrissy, I operate Hastings River Horse Riding on the beautiful banks of the Hastings River at Wauchope. If you’ve been on one of our rides, you’ll know me as that guide that never stops talking!

Are you local to Wauchope? What brought your family to the area?

I was born and bred in the Snowy Mountains, and I’ve been residing in our beautiful region now for 10 years.

I spent six years in the Sydney (gee-whiz that was an awkward start for a country girl!) where I met Tony, a country boy at heart, and when the kids arrived there was no way they were going to miss out on what I had growing up! We had the choice of going back to my home roots or taking a gamble somewhere completely new. In 2011 off we settled here with our two boys and a beautiful home at Redbank, safe to say that gamble has paid off!

Tell us about your business? How did it start?

Well, that’s an interesting story! On 29th December 2019 I visited Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding – little did I know that Mark was closing down the business after almost two decades. I didn’t have any intentions of ever owning a trail riding business, but by 31st December 2019 I had five Bellrowan horses on my property and became the founder of 62 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

CHRISSY McEWEN

WAUCHOPE’S HORSE LADY & COMMUNITY LEGEND Hastings River Horse Riding!

I’ll never forget the day my company business name certificate arrived in the mail, I had literally opened the envelope at the same moment we experienced the first drought breaking rain – a very emotional moment and a sign of good times to come.

Why are horses your passion? What gives you fulfilment in your business?

My parents bought me a little colt when I was a wee tacker and that was the start of something extraordinary. I never had any formal training, I was just given an unbroken pony and a ‘here you go’. I named him ‘Frisbee’ and our bond, connection and passion grew from there. At 13 I would pack up my pony and go bush for days on end, coming back when I had run out of food! A pretty good up-bringing really.

I love seeing happy customers, happy horses and happy staff. I’m also blessed to have the best team of guides working for HRHR. More often than not the girls will be teaching each other different skills in their downtime – it’s quite amazing to see! It’s not an easy gig, and it takes true grit to do what we do so well.

Aside from riding, where else can we find you? What else takes up your spare time?

Haha at the pub of course! Either the Beechwood or the Hastings, usually with a horse in tow!

The past couple of years have been tough for local business, and I assume it is no different for you. Covid, floods, it’s been a

lot. How has your business survived?

Yes, look there’s a lot to look back and reflect on. Drought, fires, floods and the ongoing pandemic. The floods temporarily destroyed our signature river ride access so we had to diversify. Our operating costs were the same, the horses still required work to ensure they were ready for when we could open. I had a commitment to the crew that we would get through the tough times, no matter how hard it would be.

You are a huge supporter of the Hastings community, and other business within the community, what drives this?

I’m so chuffed to live and breathe the Hastings Valley and work alongside so many amazing businesses. In the 10 short years I’ve been here, I’ve seen the region grow from strength to strength, from innovative youngsters having a go at something to the long-time established organisations that have been here for generations. Everyone hooks in to support one another!

For me, I strive give back what the community has given me. I’ve been so humbled with the support of many friends, individuals and business people in our community, like yourself Flowery. People like Paul and Helen Mansfield were a godsend after the floods and I must mention my neighbours Geoff and Jen who have provided endless support and kept me on track when times have been tough.

Thanks Chrissy.

PORT

AdVenture

A

gain, we have had uncertainty with regular entertainment cruises due to Covid and another flood threat.

However, the feedback and bookings have been sensational with our regular Dolphin Spotting River cruises, small shared parties, and private functions. Fingers crossed that all the bad vibes are behind us, and from April 2022 we can all start to enjoy ourselves again without restrictions.

We at Port AdVenture Cruises will continue our daily/weekly morning and sunset cruises, which includes the Easter school holiday period, catering for families to come on board and enjoy the best value family package with cruise, food and entertainment.

Our highlight will be the return of the one and only BOB DOWNE, who “wowed” a sold out cruise in early November 2021.

Bob is in the middle of a national tour with his ‘Viva BOB Vegas’ show. However, he has committed to 2 performances on our boat on Thursday 28th and Friday 29th April 2022.

If you want 5-star entertainment, catering and beautiful scenery which changes on the Hastings River every 5 minutes, get your friends and book a table!

Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th May 2022 we are proud to present Australia’s #1 ABBA tribute show ‘Mamamia - A tribute to ABBA’ on the Rhythmboat for

3 shows. This band worked exclusively on Sydney Harbour for over 12 years performing an average of 80 shows per year. We have already pre-sold 50% of tickets. So, avoid disappointment and book now!

We want to thank so many businesses and individuals for the wonderful positive feedback we receive when we present our cruises.

Our Seniors Big Day Out cruises are popular and word is spreading for our much loved seniors to come on board, have a laugh, a sing along and enjoy first class catering.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

63

46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

R E A DY TO R E AWA K E N

taste for Slice? your

A

fter a two-year break, Slice of Haven is back. The region’s premier food and wine event will reawaken locals and visitors to the gourmet flavours of the Camden Haven food bowl on 29 May 2022.

winemakers and entertainment from the

This year’s theme, ‘Reawaken your taste for Slice’, is about shaking off the last two years of uncertainty and reconnecting with great company over great food and entertainment from local musicians, including Ghost Road.

“In the past two years, more food venues have opened up in the region, and we hope by bringing our loyal following of locals and visitors back to the Camden Haven, they will be able to see how the menu of dining options has grown,” says event coordinator Lisa McPherson.

hinterland to the coast in the famous, laid-

The event will proudly celebrate the finest local produce, chefs, cooks, brewers, roasters,

Haven,” organising committee chair Robert

Follow @SliceEvents on Facebook and @Slice. of.Haven on Instagram.

Dwyer says.

For more info visit sliceofhaven.com.au

back atmosphere that can only be found at the Slice of Haven.

“We’re all about supporting local businesses.

It’s been a tough couple of years, and we’re keen to support more local businesses by encouraging them to be involved with Slice of

Slice of Haven is on Sunday, May 29, 10am4pm.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

65

focus_interview

JOSH N E E D S

Josh Needs is a singer/ songwriter who grew up locally and is now based in Sydney, recording and performing his music. He has collaborated with some big names in Australian music and featured at a number of festivals, and he has just released his latest single ‘Fault Line’ last month.

66 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

H

i Josh. Where did your in the music room during lunchtime, eating love of music begin? off the snare drum. I play harmonica too, My love of music especially given the Dylan influence. I also came from my parents. I play ukulele and piano. grew up around a lot of You write a lot of your own music, 60’s and 70’s rock, Laurel what is the songwriting process usually Canyon singer/songwriters, including like for you? classical music, particularly from my Dad. The songwriting process has its usual Long road trips from South West Rocks to pillars of writing verses, choruses etc, yet I Sydney, back when it would take 8 hours, find it's different every time. I might come there would always be music playing on up with a guitar idea one day and play it CD’s and I’d be in the backseat vibing along whenever I pick up the guitar for the next to Beatles, Eagles, Rolling Stones, Doors couple months and then all of a sudden I’ve and Bob Dylan from a very early age. written some lyrics that would totally suit How would you describe your style of the guitar vibe. That’s an example of letting music? ideas breathe when writing. Similarly, I My music is heavily grounded by guitar might have a bunch of lyrics in my notes riffs, while the lyrics and story are inspired floating around then one day I’ll pick up from life experience intertwined with my the guitar and start writing chords and a love for poetry. melody to fit the words. Other times I’m My style of music is influenced by what feeling a certain way and I need to get it I heard growing up. In this EP there are out in song form. Those just pour out and elements of surf are the rare ones. rock featuring some Right now I have a lot surfy, punchy drums of jumbled ideas, bites My music is courtesy of Brody of lyrics and guitar HEAVILY Simpson. riffs just waiting to be grounded by guitar There’s an indie songs. riffs, WHILE THE rock singer/songwriter What would you say LYRICS AND STORY feel to it with bass are some of your ARE INSPIRED player Rob Calder biggest influences?

FROM LIFE of Passenger, Angus When I was 12, my EXPERIENCE & Julia Stone, Dope first “guitar hero” INTERTWINED Lemon playing on the was Angus Young of WITH MY LOVE EP. I listen to grunge AC/DC. I’d copy the FOR POETRY. My bands and singer/ moves, the licks, the songwriters. Some cheeky school boy style of music is tracks are for those charisma. I love the influenced by what I who have experienced energy of that band, heard growing up. a hard time after a especially their early breakup and need live recordings. Tommy a voice for comfort, and Phil Emmanuel other tracks are on the more sensual side. have been HUGE influences for me. I was As well as being a singer you also play obsessed with them, watching every live a number of instruments, can you tell video I could, buying instructional DVD’s us about what you play? and learning the songs. To me, they were I consider myself a guitar player first these two wise wizards of the guitar that before anything else. Although, I did play had an extraordinary musicality and I bass guitar in a little family trio with my wanted to play like they did. other siblings… we never got our first gig.

How do you find the recording process?

I love playing the drums. I used to ditch the Since I was 15, I’ve loved being in a guitar later in high school to play on the kit studio or recording environment. Recording

myself has been a great tool for inspiring growth as a musician. I nerd out over microphones and the software used to record the session. It’s basically spending a whole day in a room full of things that I love and am passionate about, so of course I’m going to have a good time. Although, when we’re rolling it’s sometimes hard to relax and get comfortable to ease the anxiety of recording and getting a good performance.

You have just released a new single ‘Fault Line’, can you tell us about the song and what inspired it?

I started writing ‘Fault Line’ around February 2021. I had been going through a breakup and during this time I felt stripped down of who I was, lacking motivation each day, and playing my guitar was the one of the few things that helped me hold it together I guess. I had written a melody and chords and playing it seemed to ease how I was feeling. These were the bones which became ‘Fault Line’.

Obviously the last few years have been extremely hard on the arts, but do you have any plans to start performing live a bit more again this year?

I do have plans to start performing live!

I’ve put together a band specifically for this EP. We’ve already cut a live studio performance video of ‘Fault Line’ which you can watch on YouTube, with more of those in the works. We’d love to take it on the road and play some shows, festivals etc. Especially since the pandemic we are all aching to play in front of the crowds. Later in the year we’ll play an EP launch, maybe a small tour.

Where can people have a listen to your music and keep an eye on any upcoming gigs?

You can listen to my music wherever you stream, I’m on all the platforms. I have physical CD’s available through my website. Keep up to date with my music by subscribing to my mailing list via my website www.joshneeds.com I’m not on social media very often, however I use Instagram @joshneeds where you can see music updates as well.

Thanks Josh.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

67

APRIL MARKETS With a local focus on providing ‘market style’ events that embrace and enhance our community, Marketplace Events brings both monthly and special one-off market opportunities to your calendar.

FORESHORE A vibrant marketplace for local artists, producers and artisans to showcase and market their talents in the Port Macquarie area. Unique handmade arts and

crafts highlight the event with an eclectic mix of other stalls, from gourmet foods, locally grown produce and flowers, to vintage clothing and handmade jewellery and clothing.

TOWN SQUARE Over 45 stallholders showcasing their wares. Bring the kids along to the craft tent to create something special to take home, and enjoy the live music on stage by local music legends Ruby Blunt.

W H AT ’ S ON IN A P R IL FORESHORE MARKET SATURDAY 9 APRIL 8AM - 1PM AT WESTPORT PARK TOWN SQUARE MARKET SUNDAY 10 APRIL 10AM - 2PM TOWN SQUARE MARKET THURSDAY 14 APRIL 10AM - 2PM TOWN SQUARE MARKET SUNDAY 24 APRIL 10AM - 2PM Join us this April at one of our vibrant shopping experiences for our 2022 Easter School Holidays held centrally in the heart of the Port Macquarie CBD and Westport Park. Huge variety of stalls, Live music and kids activities and more. fb.com/marketplaceeventspmq

@marktplaceevents

marketplaceevents@outlook.com

68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery (DNAAG) showcases work 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 beautiful artworks on show and for sale, demonstrating a wide range of traditional and contemporary styles. The Gallery is always has 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. Come in and chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

69

TRIAL

BY JURY P L AY E R S T H E AT R E

F

rom The Players Theatre and the team that brought you the classic musical, Singin’ in the Rain, comes Gilbert and Sullivan’s Trial by Jury. Director Lance Thompson and Musical Director Cate Storen have teamed up again to bring to life this one act operetta.

This production will be two acts, and if you’ve never experienced Gilbert and Sullivan this will be the perfect introduction. Act one will be vaudeville style performances, containing songs from other well-known Gilbert and Sullivan productions such as ‘Three Little Maids’ and ‘Tit Willow’ from The Mikado, and ‘With Cat-Like Tread’ and ‘When a Felon’s Not Engaged in His Employment’ from Pirates of Penzance. When patrons return from interval they will be treated to the hilarious comedy Trial by Jury.

engagement? In this courtroom farce, it’s a very serious crime! The fickle and bigoted defendant, Bradley, has fallen in love with another woman and has jilted the plaintiff, the beautiful Angelina. Unfortunately for Bradley, all of the members of the jury (and the judge) have fallen for Angelina themselves. Bradley proposes that in order to solve the conflict, he “marry this lady today and the other tomorrow,” which, naturally, Angelina objects to. Ultimately, there is a resolution that pleases everyone, even judge!

“probably the most successful British one-act

Can you sue someone for breaking off an

Hailed by theatre scholar Kurt Gänzl as

the venue.

70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

operetta of all time,” Trial by Jury is a bitesized portion of Gilbert and Sullivan’s signature witty lyrics, catchy tunes, and ridiculous plotlines.

This production is the second show for The Players Theatre in their spectacular 60th season and will run from 14th to 29th May. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased from The Players Theatre website, The Glasshouse or one hour prior to the show at

Sessions

NICKOLINA RIVER

N

ickolina River please tell us what The Jazz Sessions are all about? “The Jazz Sessions” are a series of music performances around the Hastings region happening once a month that aim to promote Jazz music and foster excellence in improvisation and musicianship. They include a local professional core band bringing their own repertoire, guest artists and competent walk ups who sit in and bring charts for the band to follow and back the artist. The music will cover a broad spectrum of Jazz from the older classics to tunes from around the world c

to contemporary original pieces.

What inspired you to create this type of show? I saw a gap in the live music that is available to listen to in this area and felt it was high time to bring back Jazz into the mix. We have some really great musicians in this area that deserve to be heard and gigging more than they are. We also have some exceptionally skilled students who could benefit from this type of forum.

I have played many different genres of music in my life, but I have had a love of Jazz from my adolescence. I listened to it and studied it in my 20’s. I learned many Standards when

studying music at Southern Cross Uni in the late 80’s and 90’s. In the last 2 1/2 years I’ve revisited all those standards as well as adding many Latin Bossanovas and French Swing to the repertoire. Jazz is the best form of music for a musician to develop their skill. And it’s fun!

What can our readers expect from these shows? Some very pleasant listening in comfortable venues offering food and beverages while you are entertained. Some exciting performances full of surprises. The opportunity to support something uniquely local. facebook.com/thejazzsessions

THE JAZZ SESSIONS CALLING ALL JAZZ MUSICIANS & JAZZ AFICIONADOS A MONTHLY JAZZ SESSION IS ABOUT TO BEGIN. KEEP YOUR CHOPS UP

, HOAN YOUR SKILLS

,

ROTATING CORE BAND, FEATURED GUEST ARTISTS, #1 Good Friday, April 15 Bonny Hills Beach Hotel 7pm. Free LOW ENTRY

FEE, DRINKS & FOOD AVAILABLE.

Core band, top musicians, guest artists. .Walk ups bring charts.

PLAY OR BE THE AUDIENCE

Sign up to The Jazz Sessions Club.

Call Nickolina on 0401 767 130

Sign up to The Jazz Sessions Club.

Or Email: nickolinariver@bigpond.com

Call Nickolina on 0401 767 130

Or PM:The Jazz Sessions@mncjazzsessions.

Email: nickolinariver@bigpond.com

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

71

A SPECTACULAR CONCERT WITH THREE FAVOURITE AUSTRALIAN PERFORMING ARTISTS

Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Josh Piterman & Guy Noble Glasshouse Arts Centre, Port Macquarie Thursday 19 May 2022, 7.30pm THRILL TO OPERA AND MUSICAL THEATRE DELIGHTS ‘Nessun dorma’, ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, ‘Music of the Night’, ‘Largo al factotum’, ‘I am a Pirate King’, Cole Porter’s ‘So in Love’, and much loved duets ‘The Pearl Fishers’, ‘Lily’s Eyes’, ‘You’ll never Walk Alone’ Bass baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes has sung with the world’s leading opera companies including The Metropolitan Opera in New York and Opera Australia, and performed many great roles including Escamillo (The Toreador) in Bizet’s Carmen, Scarpia in Puccini’s Tosca, and the title role in Mozart’s Don Giovanni.

Federation University with a Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) in 2006.

Josh kicked off his career performing with the international pop opera group The Ten Tenors and then made his mark as Tony in the 2010 Australian production of West Side Story.

An ARIA and Helpmann award winning artist, Teddy has also won legions of fans for his starring roles in the smash hit Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals South Pacific and The King and I.

Other musical credits include the Australian productions of Cats and Beautiful - The Carole King Musical and the UK production of Hairspray. In 2018 his debut self-titled album went to number 1 on both the Aria and ITunes Charts (Classical Crossover) in Australia.

Australia’s own “Phantom of the Opera”, tenor Josh Piterman starred in the title role in London’s East End from mid 2019. Later this year Josh heads to Sydney’s Opera House and Melbourne’s Arts Centre for “Phantom of the Opera” productions.

Pianist Guy Noble, renowned for his wit and engaging manner with audiences, is a sought after conductor and soloist, and has worked with Australia’s finest orchestras and leading international artists including Harry Connick Jr, Michael Bolton, Olivia Newton John, The Beach Boys, and soprano Sumi Jo.

Josh is an established Australian musical theatre performer and classical crossover artist who has worked prolifically since he graduated from

Guy is a regular guest presenter on ABC Classic FM and writes a column for Limelight Magazine.

THIS EXCITING CONCERT IS ONE NIGHT ONLY IN PORT MACQUARIE – BOOK NOW! Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Josh Piterman & Guy Noble in Concert 19 May 2022, 7.30pm - 8.45pm (no interval) Bookings: Glasshouse Arts Centre, Port Macquarie, NSW (02) 6581 8888 | www.glasshouse.org.au Program Enquiries: info@artsandhealth.org | 0416 641 482 | www.artsandhealth.org.au Produced by Andrew McKinnon Presentations. Presented in association with Margret Meagher & The Australian Centre for Arts and Health (ACAH), Port Macquarie

StephLewis A RO M AT I C S

focus_contributor.

StyleSVibe AV V Y with VANESSA LAWRENCE FROM THE STYLE VIBE

Hey Girls! Good to be back for another edition of the Style Vibe Savvy just in time to help you get through the start of our ‘trans seasonal’ period between Summer and Winter.

I

love this time of year as it’s a great opportunity to utilise lots of garments in your wardrobe and freshen up your look with a blazer, boots instead of heels or grab yourself some new season accessories!

This month I want to chat about ‘Capsule Wardrobes’ The myth on this is that a capsule wardrobe consists of a certain number of pieces, however for me a capsule wardrobe is simply a wardrobe that works for you. For this to work all of the items must suit your aesthetic and your lifestyle.

Did you know that on average women have approximately 103 pieces of clothing in their wardrobe but sadly 58% of those are UNWORN! If you resonate with the above statement – read on and discover just how to get more out of your precious wardrobe space, have more outfit options, feel more confident with your personal style and help to save the planet!

Tip 1: Invest in Basics. There is no rule when it comes to shopping for basics, however for me I like to keep it pretty simple. Look at 74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

purchasing a singlet or cami in a non-clingy fabric (neutral colours are best), a great shape tee (white, black or light grey), good quality white long sleeve shirt (linen blends are my fav), two pairs of perfectly fitting jeans (black and traditional blue) a well cut blazer (I like a relaxed fit with a ¾ sleeve) and a wrap dress (plain or print). These items will be your go-to and help to build numerous outfits. Invest in good quality brands that fit you perfectly and highlight your best bits.

Tip 2: Wear it 3 Ways. When considering purchasing an item ask yourself ‘can I wear this 3 different ways?’ If the answer is ‘no’ – pop it back and keep looking for a more versatile piece. When you find a garment you can wear at least 3 different ways it becomes a true representation of value for money with its ‘cost per wear’ substantially more significant than say an ‘in the moment piece’ that may only go with a certain item and be too easily recognisable to wear consistently throughout the season.

Tip 3: Complementary Clothing. Ensure the pieces both in your wardrobe and that you purchase ‘complement’ almost all of your other clothing. This creates consistency in your

personal style, gives you loads more options when putting together looks and provides you with a unique sense of style suited to you, your body shape and personality. Also work to a colour palette that suits your skin tone and don’t forget fabrics are super important when styling and customising your look.

One of the best things about creating a ‘Capsule Wardrobe’ is that not only are you less likely to experience ‘Shopping Regret’ but you are also helping save the planet by not investing in fast fashion or items purchased on a whim!

If you are a bit of a ‘fashionista’ my advice is to borrow, hire or use a budget-friendly fashion forward online boutique to pick yourself up a ‘hot right now’ dress or outfit.

Don’t spend too much on these items because quite likely after one wear it will form part of that 58% in your wardrobe left unworn!

Learn to resell via eBay or Marketplace or pass on unwanted items to family, friends or a charity organisation such as ‘Dress for Success’.

Till next time, stay stylish!

Vanessa Jane x

An evening with

Bookings are essential for this event, limited numbers. Please contact us!

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION STRESS AND URGE INCONTINENCE PELVIC FLOOR ISSUES

WEDNESDAY 13TH APRIL 5-7PM IN CLINIC ONLY AVAILABLE AT

0439 625 078

SKN Associate

hello@sknassociate.com.au

2/3 High Street, Wauchope

www.sknassociate.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

67

Bruxism W H AT I T I S & H OW I T A F F E C T S MY

FAMILY

B

ruxism, more commonly known as “tooth grinding”, is a habit involving gnashing, grinding or clenching of the teeth and leads to excessive tooth wear and tooth breakdown. While statistics on grinding range from 8% to 31% in the general population, we know a significant percent of the population suffer from this serious yet treatable condition.

The prevalence of bruxism is varied but often increases with age and can be correlated with stress. It can be further sub-classified as either awake or nocturnal bruxism (which happens while asleep). In the general populations it is more prevalent during sleep, which means people don’t even know they are doing it, but some people experience it when they are awake.

How does Bruxism or Grinding present?

• Soreness and tenderness of jaw muscles due to overuse • Difficulty opening and closing the mouth and jaw • Temporal tension headaches or earaches • Trauma to the soft tissues in the mouth (cheek biting, scalloped borders of the tongue, damage to the periodontal ligament) • Waking to a “gritty feeling” between the teeth

76 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Over time Bruxism can result in shorter, be treated. One effective technique to sharper teeth and sensitivity, a change manage is by the use of a night guard or in your bite, even shorter facial height a splint. These appliances are often worn and sinking of the jaw. Needless to say during the night to minimise the amount none of these are desirable outcomes but of force generated between the teeth and there’s more. Bruxism can lead to cracked subsequently to limit tooth wear, tooth or broken teeth, broken restorations and damage, as well as overuse of the jaw the need to fix and muscles. Splints are re-fix the same teeth, made in a dental office not to mention the or laboratory from an It is more interrupted sleep of acrylic-type material that prevalent your partner! fits intimately over a during sleep, which What are ways patient’s teeth in either means people don’t to diagnose this the upper or lower jaw even know they are condition? and protects the teeth doing it, but some Often the wear from continued stress and tear created by of nocturnal grinding. people experience bruxism is progressive If the tooth wear is it when they are so people don’t more significant, and awake. notice the shortening depending on the dental of their teeth. They symptoms, fillings, do however notice root canal, crowns or soreness of the jaw and gums and in these extractions may be necessary to address cases self-reporting or by other family broken down teeth and to return your smile members. Sometimes there are even audio/ to its former glory and function. video recording of nocturnal grinding used If you or a loved one suffers from tooth as evidence. Other cases are diagnosed at grinding ask your dental team about your a Dental examination (signs of wear on the options today or book an exam with the surfaces of the teeth) or a flattening of the caring team at Sundial Dental at Port teeth.

6583 3533 or Wauchope 6585 2015 to get Management of Bruxism/Grinding on top of your family’s dental health today.

The good news is tooth grinding can sundialdental.com.au

Welcome to the new look Aromatics Skin Clinic!

Steph Lewis, owner of Aromatics, has been operating her clinic in the area for over 25 years, with nearly 30 years experience in the industry!

They are also the exclusive stockists of DMK in the Hastings.

stress) by detoxifying, hydrolysing dead skin cells, increasing oxygen, cell activity & new collagen/elastin formation, to create healthy vibrant skin.

Perfectly located across from Port Macquarie’s famous Town Beach, owner Steph Lewis invites you to experience the very best in skin care We customise our famous DMK and beauty treatments. treatment program to ensure you (Not just skin but all the classics are educated, use the right products, too! Waxing, tinting, manicures, understand how we can treat your pedicures, 1h facials, mini facials.) concerns and also experience luxury & care to maintain long lasting results!

Aromatics is all about changing lives by changing skin – it is that If you have been looking for the simple! ultimate in professional skin care, and a warm, friendly, stylish environment DMK’s concept of REMOVE, to relax in with a personal solution REBUILD, PROTECT and MAINTAIN aims to achieve phenomenal results for all things beauty, we invite you to contact Steph for a complimentary with Enzyme Treatments that help skin consultation free of charge so correct dysfunction in the skin (acne, inflammation, pigmentation, you can start the journey to loving the skin you’re in. aging, hormonal fluctuations and

GIVE YOUR GROWING CHILD A HEAD START TO A BEAUTIFUL SMILE 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.

We believe a beautiful day starts with beautiful skin.

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

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

BOOK ONLINE for your next skin treatment.

Phone 6586 1677 a. 1/40 William St, Port Macquarie e. info@aromaticsskinclinic.com.au Aromatics Skin Clinic aromaticsskinclinic w. www.aromaticsskinclinic.com.au

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

focus

77

74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

ROSIE

MEDICAL ALARMS

E

njoy your freedom and independence – Rosie devices work Australia-wide, wherever there is Telstra mobile coverage.

We spoke to Glenys, an adventurous retiree, who last year embarked on the trip of a lifetime with her husband – travelling around Australia in their motorhome.

Naturally, their children were a little apprehensive. What would happen if something went wrong? An accident or sudden illness?

Glenys says, “The kids were excited for us,

but at the same time, they were a bit worried.

I tried to reassure them that we’d have our phone and would always be in touch, but they raised a good point – what if we weren’t able to get to the phone for some reason, or if it stopped working?”

“The answer for us was to get a Rosie personal alarm. It gave everyone the peace of mind that we could get emergency help anywhere, at any time. They even work in the shower!”

Their trip was cut short due to COVID-19, but Glenys is still enjoying the safety net of her Rosie personal alarm.

“If I have an unexpected fall or an accident when I’m out and about, it’s good to know someone is right there to send help. It also reassures the family which gives me a bit of a break from their nagging to look after myself!” she laughs.

With Rosie, you’re in good hands. Our team of professional Australian operators is on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week. With just the press of a button, you’ll be connected within seconds to someone who can speak to you through the device.

Once we identify what help is required, we arrange the right assistance – whether it be an ambulance, the police, fire service or a call to one of your nominated contacts.

Get help fast, whenever you need it, with Rosie 24/7 monitored medical alarm.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

79

Who are Linked Community Services?

We are here to take you there. Mobility is key to inclusion, health and wellbeing. LINKED Community Services focuses on the needs of the individual, promoting independence and inclusion, delivering services that will connect you to the community, friends and family.

For the past 35 years, we’ve experienced significant growth, we have changed our name from Hastings Macleay Community Transport to Linked Community Services, but our commitment to the community has remained unchanged and steadfast.

Where are we?

Our administration office is centrally located on Lord Street in Port Macquarie; however, our services extend throughout the wider Hastings Macleay area.

Who can access our services?

Absolutely any person, if you need transport LINKED are here to take you there! However, we are Federal and State Government funded to provide our transport services at a subsidised rate for individuals who are aged 65 and part of the Commonwealth Home Support Program, or for those under 65 and transport disadvantaged through the Community Transport Program (CTP).

76 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

What do we offer?

We provide individual transport services to assist our valued clients in getting to where they want to be, whether that be the hairdressers, a local club for BINGO, for medical appointments, to visit friends or to the local grocery shop.

In conjunction with our specialised individual services, we coordinate daily group social outings across all our areas, you can experience a variety of exciting and engaging adventures. Discover new places and new friends, whilst our team at Linked look after your every need.

Linked is proud to support the Community Visitors Scheme, to enrich the quality of life of a person who may be socially, physically, or culturally lonely, socially isolated or has little or no contact with relatives or friends.

Head to our website www.linked.org.au or give our friendly office team a call on 02 6583 8644.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 77

78 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Don't Worry

Be Happy As we age, health problems, carer responsibilities and the loss of loved ones can increase our health risks.

H

ere are our five top tips to supporting your mental health.

Health comes first As we age, our physical health can decline which can cause loss of independence and we don’t need to be told twice that our physical health affects our mental health.

A balanced diet, daily exercise and a good night’s sleep are the foundations of a healthy lifestyle and benefit everyone regardless of their physical condition.

Ingenia Gardens offer residents a choice

of meal plans and exercise groups that

residents with similar interests or spend the

offer residents assistance on a temporary or

afternoon with some fun and laughter.

ongoing basis.

Stay connected

Stay involved

One of the best things about community

Ingenia Gardens’ Activate program

living is that you are surrounded by people

provides residents opportunities to participate

from similar walks of life. Striking up a

in regular activities and social events. It’s a

conversation with a fellow resident is a great

great way to discover new hobbies, meet

way to build new friendships.

A safer place to live and a great place to be.

Experience the feeling of belonging and connection at our independent seniors rental community.

Take a virtual tour today or call our friendly Community Manager Keiron on 6581 5223.

For further information, visit ingeniagardens.com.au.

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR NOW

12 SHERIFF WAY, PORT MACQUARIE ingeniagardens.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

83

focus_interview

CWA 100

YEARS The NSW Country Women’s Association turns 100 this year.

We had a chat with Jennifer Smith, who joined the Bonny Hills CWA when its branch was founded in 2002, about her experience with the association and to give us some insight into what the CWA is all about.

goods. This has proved popular with locals, with cakes being snapped up early in the day.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 regulations meant we needed to restrict our annual awareness week activities last year, I am proud to and cancel our popular be a member of community morning tea a group that to support the Hastings JENNIFER SMITH supports local causes Cancer Trust. We were BONNY HILLS BRANCH as well as lobbying also unable to hold our government at state annual International and national level on Day where we celebrate issues affecting the food and culture of women. I have another country, and formed some great involve local school i Jennifer. How long have served as Secretary friendships with children who research have you been involved and also as Cookery other members over and make posters or with the CWA? Officer, even though presentations about the years and I joined the Bonny Hills I am famous for my the country of study. learned a lot about Branch in 2002 when it inability to bake scones!

Hopefully these events my community. was founded – so the What does the group will be back this year.

Branch and I share a 20th anniversary this do on a regular basis?

The CWA has been year.

We run a weekly craft involved with many Can you tell us about your role with morning, a friendship community projects and initiatives over Bonny Hills CWA? group open to the community as well as the years, which ones stand out to you?

I am currently the Treasurer and I also members. We also have a market day sale CWA has always focused on improving represent our Branch at the Mid North Coast before Mother’s Day and Christmas where conditions and welfare of women and Group Council meetings. In previous years I we showcase and sell craft items and baked

H

84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Last year, in

families, especially in supports local causes partnership rural and regional areas. as well as lobbying with Mission In one of its ongoing government at state Australia, we projects for hospital and national level on highlighted the support, CWA continues issues affecting women. urgent need for more its sponsorship of a I have formed some social and affordable family room at the John great friendships with housing in regional Hunter Hospital. other members over the Last year, in years and learned a lot areas, and for women partnership with about my community. over 55, during the Mission Australia, we Personally, I enjoy the Awareness Week highlighted the urgent challenge of the State campaign. need for more social Handicraft Competition, and affordable housing where I can pursue in regional areas, and my favourite hobby of for women over 55, during the Awareness knitting.

Week campaign.

The CWA is celebrating 100 years this Also, during the drought, CWA distributed year. How have you celebrated that nearly $19 million to over 10,000 families and milestone and what are your hopes for individuals in need. An amazing effort which the future of the CWA? has now been completed.

Together with the Kendall, Hastings, Port What is something people may not know Macquarie and Wauchope Branches, we have about being a member of the CWA? purchased a recliner chair for the Maternity CWA is the largest women’s organisation Unit at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital. This in Australia. Although we are known for our continues the tradition of CWA supporting cookery and craft, members also have the Mother and Baby Health Care clinics in their opportunity to study a country (this year it’s regional areas.

Malaysia), or be involved with environmental For our own Branch, we will be planting a issues, as well as participate in social and native tree in the gardens of the Bonny Hills cultural events. We encourage and support Community Hall and following this with a our members to develop their talents and take picnic lunch. The Port Macquarie-Hastings on leadership roles.

Council have provided advice and support What do you enjoy about being part of to select the tree (Glochidion ferdinandi, the the association? cheese tree) and find a suitable site. This will I am proud to be a member of a group that be an enduring and attractive memorial to

commemorate 100 years of CWA in NSW. For the future I hope that CWA will continue its work to provide a voice for women in NSW. While we have a great tradition, we are moving with the times.

We now have a Virtual Branch which meets online (they even have virtual morning teas) and COVID-19 restrictions have made us all familiar with Zoom meetings and online webinars.

As our State President Stephanie Stanhope says “This is an important time to reflect on just how far we’ve come and the successes of the Association to date, but just as importantly to look to the future and determine our priorities, particularly around our all-important advocacy efforts on behalf of rural, regional and remote communities.”

Could you tell us a bit about the history of the Bonny Hills CWA?

By CWA standards we are a young Branch as we were founded in September 2002. We currently have 40 members and as Bonny Hills is a growing community we anticipate an increase in membership.

What would you say to any local women thinking of joining?

Check out the CWA of NSW website (www.cwaofnsw.org.au) for information on our contact details or drop in to our craft/friendship group at the Bonny Hills Community Hall on a Wednesday morning (9:00 till 12:00). You will be warmly welcomed and can share a cuppa and a chat with some of our ladies.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

85

MARIAN

GROVE

For thirty years Sawtell Catholic Care has provided accommodation and services to the community we care for. ‘We care’ is our cherished motto.

WE CARE

M

arian Grove has been the flagship of our mission over these years, setting a high standard for retirement living.

Twenty years ago, Sawtell Parish saw the need to provide extended care to the frail aged in our community, so we built Mater Christi, our residential care home.

More recently, witnessing the growing need for in-home care and the lack of services to address the local demand for this type of support led us to launch Sawtell Home Care as a new service, which is quickly growing a reputation for unconditional kindness and support.

Our continuum of care has always evolved and adapted to the needs of our residents as they change over time, sustaining their independence and enhancing their quality of life.

At Sawtell Catholic Care (SCC) it’s all about the mission. Our mission is to support and grow our community of Christian care.

The environment in which we serve our community is our beautiful 40 acres of land

86 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Our continuum of care has always evolved and adapted to the needs of our residents as they change over time, sustaining their independence and enhancing their quality of life. at Toormina/Sawtell, a place of serenity and sanctuary to many over the years.

Within minutes to the airport, shopping, medical facilities, the Sawtell lifestyle with its beach, cafes, dining, tennis courts and local cinema, but away from the bustle of an everbusier world, our residents often comment on the peace and security they feel “coming home to Marian Grove”, once they drive through the gates.

In 2022 we’ll be launching our latest innovation for our community, The Link.

Formerly the site of Cockbain’s Nursery on Hogbin Drive, the huge 3.6-acre garden has been absorbed into our expanded Marian Grove village precinct, affording residents a new and exceptional lifestyle opportunity right in their own back yard. In addition to

the activities already on offer to our Marian Grove and Mater Christi residents, The Link provides access to the gardens for events, games, walking, picnics and spending time with visiting family and friends in a tranquil, protected environment. They’ll have an easy walk or ride to the Café when it opens and, if they choose, they can get their hands in the soil to make something beautiful grow in the community garden.

We’ll be opening The Link stage by stage, firstly to our residents and later in the year to the general public to ensure that it fulfills its wonderful potential as a lifestyle hub intended to foster the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of our residents and ‘link’ everyone as an inclusive community through social connection and engagement.

Does this feel like the stress-free retirement you’ve been dreaming about? Then why not give us a call and arrange for a visit with our friendly sales team. There really never has been a better time to come home to Marian Grove, where your new lifestyle is waiting.

Call us on 02 6653 1241, we’d love to hear from you, or visit our website at scca.net.au/ independent for more information.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

87

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.

Ageing-in-place solutions

Call 1800 718 413

GREATER *Conditions PORT MACQUARIE apply.

focus

65

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

89

focus_contributor.

A MOMENT

WITH THE

Mayor

Peta Pinson

Adam Roberts

Nik Lipovac

A NEW TERM WITH NEW POSSIBILITIES ON THE HORIZON Sharon Griffiths

T

he lessons I will take with me into this new term, from a challenging few years.

Following the one-year anniversary of the March floods, I have spent a lot of time reflecting on what our communities have been through.

The images of our beautiful town under water will always be etched into my mind - but seeing them again in the media really drove home to me, how far we have come.

Three months into my new term as Mayor, working with an incredible supportive group of Councillors, I want to ensure I bring the lessons I learnt during those challenging times with me.

I am naturally a curious person, who gets a lot of energy from my passion for talking to people. If you’ve met me, you know I love a good chat!

It is through these conversations and these interactions that I have come to understand - the beaches, the hinterlands and the sunrises in this region are all

90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Danielle Maltman

magnificent. But our people are the bright spark that light this region.

We have a remarkable business community, who will donate their time, services and expertise, without ever asking anything in return. We have treasured volunteers, who work through their exhaustion to get the job done. We have first responders, who face danger every day, so that we can be safe. We have teachers, who go to extraordinary lengths to connect with their students through a computer screen. And we have health workers, who wave goodbye to their own families, so they can take care of ours.

Of course, I already knew all this before we were thrown into the midst of a pandemic and two natural disasters. But what I have truly learnt is a lesson you can only understand once you have been through it firsthand.

And that is - it takes a lot more than fire and flood to kill our spirit.

Yes, we have been through difficult times and these have taken their toll. But if we keep the spirit of looking out for each

Josh Slade

other alive - we can achieve unbelievable feats.

And our job as your Council, is to listen to your vision for the future - and help make it a reality. Each of your new councillors brings a new vision for our region and sees the many opportunities before us. We are committed to working hard to deliver on what you need us to do.

This month finds us in the middle of the process for setting the budget for our community and we are striving to ensure we deliver as much as we can for our community has a whole.

Our budget forms part of the one-year Operational Plan, which demonstrates how Council is achieving the objectives and vision of the Community Strategic Plan.

It will outline the priorities for our region over the next 12 months, and how we plan to fund and deliver them.

You can take a look and have your input by jumping on our website or sending us an email at council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au.

I am so excited to see what the next two-and-a-half years brings for us all!

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

91

focus_interview

Kyle Mathews has been working hard on the job in his studies and RECENTLY COMPLETED HIS APPRENTICESHIP IN CABINET MAKING. HE HAS BEEN RECOGNISED FOR HIS EFFORTS by being awarded the Apprentice of the Year by the Australian Cabinet & Furniture Association.

KYLE

MATHEWS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

92 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

H

i Kyle. When did you start your apprenticeship?

I started my apprenticeship about midway through 2017, after completing my work placement period that was offered with Newman Technical College What made you decide cabinet making was the way to go for you?

Cabinet making was a skill I learned to execute and enjoy fairly quickly, which made it an easier pick amongst other trades I had tried. I learnt to appreciate the fact that while some kitchens are similar, they all require a different skill set, which means continually testing boundaries and learning new things.

Where do you work and what is a typical day on the job like for you?

I am currently employed at Highline Joinery who specialise in high-end joinery and cabinetry. To be honest, no two days are What I enjoy ever the same at work. I most about this enjoy the variety of tasks trade would be the that are offered to me, practicality and the from on-site work such as hands-on aspect. I installations, to assembling have always been kitchens & producing highmark these off and drawn to using my end joinery in the factory. releases more. You creativity to produce What do you enjoy most are given three physical things that about this kind of work? hours per week hold a purpose.

What I enjoy most about during work time this trade would be the to complete these practicality and the handstasks. You have to on aspect. I have always provide video evidence of practical aspects to been drawn to using my creativity to produce show you are capable. This kind of training physical things that hold a purpose. I also definitely suited my workplace needs, as enjoy seeing the end result of a job, after all generally most of the time we would be too of the other trades have done their part as busy for the traditional 1-day a week TAFE well. A kitchen will never look complete until visits, or block weeks. the flooring, tiling and painting are done.

You recently won Apprentice of the Year Can you tell us a bit about the kind of for cabinet making, how did it feel to be training you do? recognised for your hard work and what I completed my apprenticeship with ACFA does it mean for you?

(Australian Cabinet & Furniture Association).

It was a great accomplishment for both This is an online-based program where you me and my workplace. It felt amazing being are given a number of units to complete in an recognised for the commitment and effort I 8-week period before the assessor comes to put in on a daily basis. This award means a

great deal for me, but it’s also a reminder to keep pushing forward and always strive for more.

Have you celebrated your win in any way?

My family and myself were awarded a night’s stay in Sydney where we celebrated the win of my award, and several other business awards at the ACFA awards night.

What are some of your goals in the future?

Staying committed to the future development of this company would have to be my main goal. My workplace has taught and guided me through a great deal in my short time with them.

A goal in the further future would be either installing cabinetry full time, or endeavoring in my own business adventures, most likely down the same line of work.

Thanks Kyle.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

93

hen David Bigeni started Men At Work in 2001, he instilled a core value that has stood the test of time: Everyone gets a go. There is no doubt our team has diversified significantly since humble beginnings 21 years ago. We now employ over 200 staff across a range of ages, genders, cultural backgrounds and experience levels. We respect all people equally and value their unique contributions to the workplace.

To ensure that our business name and brand more accurately reflects our diverse and inclusive culture, we have decided to change our name to Men And Women At Work.

Changing our name is an evolution of a business that has always been innovative. It does not mean it changes who we are, it is, however, a greater reflection of the sum of all our parts; an inclusive, genuine, hard-working, community minded, family business that makes great things happen.

As we look forward into the future, we have a lot of things to be excited for. Under the guidance of Managing Director, Ross Cargill, the growth of our team will mean we can continue delivering exceptional service to our clients. We have also expanded our footprint with a new office opening in Taree at the beginning of 2022.

02 6581 4600

mawaw.com.au

PORT MACQUARIE / 12 Belah Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 COFFS HARBOUR / 8/21 Industrial Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 TAREE / 2/34 Hargreaves Drive, Taree NSW 2430

Men At Work Training and Assessment has a new identity…

There’s no replacement for face-to-face learning. In a live class setting, our experienced trainers can demonstrate their skills, not just talk about them.

Our students can work together and get the most out of their courses. We care about our students and pride ourselves on being a premier provider of training in the Mid North Coast region.

We have a range of course offerings available in Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Taree: WHITE CARD

LICENCE TO OPERATE A FORKLIFT TLILIC0003

HIGH RISK WORK TRAINING

EWP UNDER 11M – YELLOWCARD

TRAFFIC CONTROL

PROVIDE FIRST AID HLTAID011

SMALL PLANT LOAD SHIFTING

HOSPITALITY TRAINING

PORT MACQUARIE / 12 Belah Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 COFFS HARBOUR / 6/21 Industrial Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 TAREE / 2/34 Hargreaves Drive, Taree NSW 2430

5565 9000 live.edu.au RTO Code 41067

focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

M

arch saw another very busy month especially with International Women’s Day and also March being Small Business Month. There were many events in the area and as this column goes to print the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association are hosting Jon Dee for a boardroom lunch on 30th March. Jon is a social entrepreneur, philanthropist, campaigner and advocate for the small to medium business sectors. You may also know Jon from hosting Sky News “Smart Money”, founding the charity Planet Ark, DoSomething and the international charity Rock Aid Armenia to name a few.

On Tuesday 22nd March we hosted the Luminosity Youth Summit launch for their 2022 Conference which will be held 27th29th July. Hard to believe that this year will be the 10th Anniversary of Luminosity and to celebrate they are bringing back some of their past incredible speakers. These will include past Wauchope locals Allison Langdon from 60 Minutes and the Today Show and Nixi Killick, an internationally renowned designer, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki always a favourite and Dr Jordan Nguyen a truly brilliant Biomedical Engineer just to name a few. The Summit offers opportunities to our leaders of tomorrow. If you would like to sponsor

96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

a young person to attend this fantastic opportunity please contact our office.

Part of our purpose at Chamber is to provide Education platforms to help improve and grow your business. On 14th April we have the amazing Stacey Morgan presenting “Are you Nurturing or Neglecting your Customers?” Customer service is something as a business community we constantly strive to improve. Stacey shares some practical ideas to improve your customers’ journey, streamline your processes and increase your profitability.

Imediately following the breakfast meeting we will hold an Extraordinary General Meeting for members to vote on two items: adopting our new constitution; and to change our name from Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce to Business Port Macquarie. With everything that our businesses have been through in the last few years it is a perfect opportunity to update, renew and maintain relevance to our business community.

Chamber Board members recently attended a Strategic Planning day where we revisited our Vision and strategic priorities. Our purpose, “to foster a sustainable, profitable and vibrant business community”. This is supported by the four pillars ‘Connection’, ‘Advocacy’, ‘Support’ & ‘Membership’. To ensure that we are meeting these goals I intend to continue with my meet with business for one-on-one

coffee catch ups to see how we can help you.

Please feel free to call me on 0414 772 771 to arrange a suitable time. I would love to buy you a cuppa!

Over the past month the Chamber has also had a number of meetings with Council and Councillors regarding the disbanding of committees and meeting with the now defunct Town Centre Master Plan Committee to see how we can all work together to ensure that the planned projects for Town Green are all completed. We have also commented on the recent Draft Infrastructure Strategy, Joint Integrated Transport Network Plan & Regional Integrated Transport Strategy.

We are hopeful that we will soon see these documents on public exhibition as they are vital to the future sustainability of the region.

Our combined Charity Golf Day with Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service is 11th April. If you would like to take part on the day or sponsor a hole please call our office on our new number 0422 562 300 or go to our website at www.portchamber.com.au You can register as an individual or in groups of 4.

Come join the fun!

Finally, don’t forget to join our Chamber Chats Facebook group. Get involved in the conversation and let us know about your business.

Have a great month Alex

Our chance for change in Cowper Carolyn ‘Caz’ Heise has set her sights on becoming the first woman and the first Independent to be elected as the Member for Cowper.

She wants to return power to the people and secure a better future for everyone.

Caz Heise is no stranger to working hard to meet challenges head on.

She moved from Tamworth to Bellingen after leaving school and had her daughter Elora and son Issac while working in the social services sector and studying to become a registered nurse.

A passion for further education led her to eventually gain a Master of Business degree.

Caz has served as the North Coast Manager for Mission Australia and the Director of the The Mid North Coast Cancer Institute.

She was managing a multi-million dollar budget and thousands of staff as the Director of Nursing and Midwifery at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2019.

She is now cancer-free and serves as a non-paid director on the board of the Cancer Council of New South Wales.

Caz says her decision to run as a community Independent candidate was actually quite easy.

“The party political system is failing us. The big polluters, lobbyists and multinational corporations now have unfair influence over political decision making which affects us all.”

At the core of Caz’s election campaign are the concepts of respect and fairness.

“The lack of respectful political leadership is why many people don’t feel they are equal, valued or have the same opportunities to thrive.

“ We need political leadership which shows real respect for women, for First Nations people, for our elderly, disabled and disadvantaged, and for those who are different.

“We need politicians who respect science, transparency and honesty, and we need decision making based on facts, fairness and merit rather than party political gain.

“We need to restore integrity to politics to eliminate the waste, the lies, rorts and favours for rich mates which is now par for the course.

“As a nurse and senior health manager, Master of Business and board director I know how to fix our health, aged and disability care systems, address climate change, support seniors and families, grow business, create real new jobs and uplift women.

“I want to do what needs to be done because it’s the right thing to do.”

Because I have chosen not to be supported by a party I’m not constrained by party politics and nor am I a puppet to big industry.

I answer only to the Cowper community and to my conscience.

“ My campaign is all about us, our shared values and futures.

When I work with you and on your behalf I will always act with integrity and honesty.”

www.caz4cowper.com.au    Authorised by Carolyn Heise, Independent Cowper Pty Ltd. 65 Hickory Street, Dorrigo, NSW 2453.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

71

focus_interview

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.

KEVIN CHILVERS

Kevin Chilvers loves to #RunHappy and has used his own passion for running to inspire an entire community.

His project Run Fest Port Macquarie is now in its 11th year and is becoming a fixture on the national circuit driving health, connection and tourism in our region with over 3,500 visitor nights to our beautiful region.

K

evin, you are a passionate advocate for the power of running not only for health but to connect the community, and have shared these passions in two key community formats - Port Macquarie Run Fest and Parkrun. What inspired you to begin your work in this space and how do you hope to make an impact?

Many years ago, I stumbled upon Parkrun whilst on holiday and then I could only participate in the weekly events when travelling, as at the time there were no parkrun events between Newcastle and the QLD border. My first real step on this Run Fest journey started when I saw a post on Facebook featuring a picture of our iconic lighthouse and seeking expressions of interest for locals to get involved in starting a parkrun event in Port Macquarie. After 18 months of team effort, Port Macquarie Parkrun was launched in October 2015 with 350 participants taking on the inaugural event. Soon after I was asked to take on a Territory Management role for Parkrun Australia, working with event teams on the

98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

NSW Mid Coast to Northern NSW with new events being launched in Forster, Wauchope, Urunga, Coffs Harbour, Lismore and Ballina.

Late in 2016 I took on the role to manage the Run Fest events in Port Macquarie and Forster-Tuncurry. This has been a life changing experience for me to do something good for the local economy via increasing participation numbers and attracting tourists to the areas for the events.

Running has been a transformational force not only in your life but in many others in our community - can you share how the #RunHappy movement inspired your contribution to Run Fest and to realise its tremendous growth over the last 11 years?

Running is hard and mentally challenging.

But with anything the more you do it... the easier it gets! I used to run like a terminator but over time I learnt that simply putting one foot in front of the other can provide benefits in so many ways. I often say “If you can’t run with a smile on your face you are running too fast.” Through participation I came to learn that running has a much bigger impact on people’s lives than just the time and distance run. Yes, there are times for pushing yourself

to the limit but there are times that you just need to slow down, stop, take in the views and enjoy the experience. #RunHappy is promoted widely by event sponsor Brooks Running and we have thoroughly embraced this magical combination of words for Run Fest - Prepare, #RunHappy and to explore Port Macquarie.

We’ve seen tremendous growth to now have close to 3,000 participants at Run Fest Port Macquarie. We work hard to create a great experience and race weekend for participants of all ability levels. This positive vibe has led to growth year on year.

Why do you believe that Run Fest has captured the hearts and minds of runners at all levels and abilities?

Run Fest is accessible for all and family friendly. Runners can choose to take on a new challenge, chase that elusive PB or simply #RunHappy along with a friend or family member. Run Fest Port Macquarie is now a major regional event and unofficially kicks off the NSW fun calendar with participants making the annual trip from out of town to run along our stunning foreshore area. The event is organised by runners for runners, and we make changes every year to improve

We work hard to create a great experience and race weekend for participants of all ability levels.

This positive vibe has led to growth year on year.

the experience for participants. A key change to the event format a few years back was to move to a two-day format with the event officially kicking off with the kids’ fun run... what better way to kick off the weekend than smiling happy kids!

The introduction of the Treble Breakwall Buster has been a great addition to the event whereby runners complete all Sunday events; Half Marathon, 10k and 5k events. All finishers of this challenge get their name on the event honour roll. Only four runners have completed all Treble events at Run Fest Port Macquarie.

Run Fest has a strong connection to the Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF RAW) - how important has this connection been to our community and the success and impact of the festival?

Many years ago I watched an inspiring documentary “Running to America”. An incredible short film whereby four young indigenous men were selected to participate in the Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP).

The program is headed up by Australian Marathon legend Robert de Castella whereby the four were trained to run the New York Marathon. Now local Charlie Maher is the first

graduate of the IMP, and the program has now taken more than 100 young indigenous men and women to New York to complete the marathon mentored

by Deek. They prepare, run the marathon and then come back as

community leaders.

I met with Charlie not long after taking over the role of Run Fest race director as I was looking for a worthy cause in which we can make a difference and drive change. Through this collaboration the IMF RAW Running & Walking Group was established; now with over 100 members and many Deadly Running groups around the country. At Run Fest we hold the Indigenous Marathon Foundation 3k #RunSweatInspire event which also doubles as the trials for a local to try out to be selected for the next IMP. Through this partnership we’ve been fortunate to host Robert de Castella, Steve Moneghetti, Nova Peris and many of the IMP graduates.

How instrumental were mentors in your journey ? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

There hasn’t been a particular mentor. A heap of listening, being critical of self and refinement. Everyone’s input is important.

What has been your biggest challenge in

your own journey to making a difference?

Run Fest is operated by a small family business - Chilvers Events & Consulting. My partner Amanda Cooper & I put this event on to do something great for Port Macquarie and to provide participants with a fantastic race weekend experience #RunHappy.

Events of this nature present thousands of logistical challenges. The biggest challenge is empowering and enabling people to help, as race weekend requires the support of over 100 volunteers. They always bring the #RunHappy vibe. We are fortunate to have the support of great volunteer groups such as Rotary, Friends of Mrs York’s Garden, Run Port Mac, Sailability, Flamin’ Dragons, Can Too and Tour de Cure.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in life and business?

Keeping a healthy work and life balance, as this will make your head clear to be at its best in the work environment. My head is continually churning with ideas and it needs time to switch off. Get into a good routine, set some goals for yourself and keep ticking boxes and perhaps plan to #RunHappy 3 - 4 times a week.

When you have a dream or goal, the most important thing is that you believe in yourself.

People are going to tell you it can’t be done, but when you connect with your own dreams, you will be unstoppable.

Thanks Kevin.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

99

Justin Black with Hello Koalas sculpture Guula, designed by Aboriginal Art Students, Wauchope TAFE and sponsored by Forestry Corporation of NSW.

The Hub, a 3D Render of the central visitor area at Guulabaa, design by Gensler

GUULABAA PLACE OF KOALA

C O WA R R A S TAT E F O R E S T

A new tourism attraction is being developed between Port Macquarie and Wauchope that will provide visitors and locals with a unique forest experience and deeper understanding of what we can all do to help care for country while having a bit of fun. Justin Black from Forestry Corporation of NSW shares with us how Guulabaa is developing.

H

i Justin, please tell us about Guulabaa?

Guulabaa, Place of Koala, is the name that Biripi Elders have given this wonderful new tourism destination that is being developed in Cowarra State Forest. We believe it will become one of the most unique visitor attractions in the region. Guulabaa will include a new koala care and wild breeding facility operated by Port Macquarie Koala Hospital (Koala Conservation Australia) and will showcase local Biripi culture supporting Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council run businesses which include a café and gallery. WildNets are developing a ‘net park’ tree canopy experience and the precinct will be home to the ‘Big Koala’, a 2.5 metre Hello Koalas sculpture. Walking tracks will weave through the forest and there will be an outdoor learning area.

Sharing stories about managing forests and sustainability are a key part of the visitor experience at Guulabaa and for us we want to share with the community how we manage State forests and the importance of local timber to create a sustainable future. We have a vision that visitors to Guulabaa will leave with a greater understanding of the importance of caring for country and what each of us can do to support a sustainable future.

The partnership approach to Guulabaa 100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

seems unique. Can you tell us a little more of forest management and use of timber about this? to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

I think Guulabaa demonstrates what Planet Ark’s promotion of wood as the only partnerships can really achieve, in my mind major renewable building product that stores it’s the most special part of the project. We carbon for life is a message we will be sharing. have been working together now for over two Locally sourced hardwood timber will be used years, developing a masterplan for the site and throughout the precinct. supporting each other’s The timber bridge aspirations. that we have recently Each partner brings installed stores the One thing we a unique element to equivalent emissions want to talk the project whether of 200 houses’ yearly about is the it’s the koala care and electricity use. Forest importance of forest wild koala breeding management will be management and use by the Koala Hospital, another important of timber to mitigate the sharing of Biripi aspect and together culture by Bunyah Local with Bunyah Local the impacts of Aboriginal Land Council Aboriginal Land Council climate change. or our ability to bring we will be sharing with the project together visitors the old and the with our partners. We new ways of managing are stronger together as partners and I think forests. We’ve already had one cultural burn that’s going to guarantee the success of at the precinct, and we are aiming to protect Guulabaa. the forest and the koalas, by regular cultural You talk about sustainability and caring burning. for country, how does this fit together at It all sounds very exciting Justin! How Guulabaa? long until it opens to the public?

All the partners of Guulabaa believe in We are at the pointy end of planning now the importance of supporting actions to care and are starting the major building projects. for the local environment. Sustainability is We will start opening different parts of the at the core of what we at Forestry do in our site before the end of the year and by the new management of the forests and one thing year should be finished most of the major we want to talk about is the importance works.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

101

focus_contributor.

LEGAL

Light

with JEREMY BRIGDEN FROM PRIEST LEGAL

Please, Sir, I Want Some More

F

reedom of testamentary disposition remains a foundational principle in our system of law. As eloquently stated by Calloway JA in the case of Grey v Harrison (1997) 2 VR 539: “It is one of the freedoms that shape our society and an important human right, that a person should be free to dispose of his or her property as he or she thinks fit.”

There are, however, limits to the freedom of testamentary disposition. In McCarthy v McCarthy [2010] NSWCA 103 Young JA said “So long as he complies with community expectations and what is sometimes called ‘moral duty’, the deceased is able to leave his property as he wishes.”

It is well established law that the concept of “community standards” or “community expectations” will play a role in determining whether adequate provision has been made and, if not, what provision should be made under a will.

Oliver Twist was born into a life of poverty and misfortune. Orphaned by his parents and raised in a workhouse with little food and few comforts, one day desperately in need of further sustenance he went forth trembling, bowl in hand, and begged the master for some more gruel.

Imagine Mr and Mrs Twist had two sons.

Imagine further that they favoured Oliver’s older brother, and considered Oliver too sickly, weak or unworthy to be deserving of anything. Imagine further still that the entirety of the Twist estate was left by the 102 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

parents’ wills to the prodigal son, to the exclusion of little Oliver. It would be difficult to argue that this would be in line with community expectations. The “moral duty” of the testators in this instance must surely be to ensure, at the very least, that Oliver is sufficiently provided for. Just as Oliver has asked for “more” gruel from the master, he would be eligible to make a request for further provision from his parents’ estate. Unlike the master, however, the Courts may be more inclined to provide.

Clients often ask: “Why would I make a will when it can be challenged?” The answer to that question is twofold. Firstly, if you do not make a will, you will die intestate, meaning you have no power over testamentary disposition. Oliver, in this instance, may get half of the whole pie. Secondly, you can take steps to protect your will from challenge.

Advice and assistance from a competent lawyer in the drafting process can minimise the likelihood of claims, and can arm your executor(s) with a legal arsenal to assist in the successful defence of such claims, if brought.

Sometimes, this may involve some [reluctant] provision for the Oliver Twists in your life in order to avoid potential claims. Note that provision need not be equal or “fair”. Such concepts do not concern the Courts. Another bowl of gruel may be adequate.

Only a limited category of people are eligible to approach the Court if they feel they have been inadequately provided for, or not provided for at all. Eligible people include spouses, former spouses, children (including

adopted children) and other limited categories.

Eligible persons can claim even if there is no will.

An executor has a duty to defend the estate and attempt to uphold the terms of the will.

However, the executor must act reasonably to seek to negotiate and compromise a claim where necessary. This is particularly so if the estate is relatively small and the cost of defending the proceedings would greatly diminish the value of the estate.

There are other grounds to challenge a will, beyond inadequate provision, including invalidity (such as lack of testamentary capacity) and ambiguity in construction or meaning of a will.

What to do?

See a competent lawyer to draft your will, or review your existing will, especially if you are considering disinheriting Oliver, or if you are concerned that there are any little Olivers lurking in the woodwork.

If you are an appointed executor faced with a challenge on the deceased’s will, you have solemn testamentary duties as trustee.

Ensure you engage a lawyer competent in the defence of Family Provision Claims.

If you are an eligible person and believe you have been left inadequate provision, you may have a claim. To be successful a claim must be made within 12 months of the date of death.

The lawyers at Priest Legal are highly competent at will drafting, and have extensive experience in contested will and estate proceedings.

focus_contributor.

LEGAL

Light

with JEREMY BRIGDEN FROM PRIEST LEGAL

Please, Sir, I Want Some More

F

reedom of testamentary disposition remains a foundational principle in our system of law. As eloquently stated by Calloway JA in the case of Grey v Harrison (1997) 2 VR 539: “It is one of the freedoms that shape our society and an important human right, that a person should be free to dispose of his or her property as he or she thinks fit.”

There are, however, limits to the freedom of testamentary disposition. In McCarthy v McCarthy [2010] NSWCA 103 Young JA said “So long as he complies with community expectations and what is sometimes called ‘moral duty’, the deceased is able to leave his property as he wishes.”

It is well established law that the concept of “community standards” or “community expectations” will play a role in determining whether adequate provision has been made and, if not, what provision should be made under a will.

Oliver Twist was born into a life of poverty and misfortune. Orphaned by his parents and raised in a workhouse with little food and few comforts, one day desperately in need of further sustenance he went forth trembling, bowl in hand, and begged the master for some more gruel.

Imagine Mr and Mrs Twist had two sons.

Imagine further that they favoured Oliver’s older brother, and considered Oliver too sickly, weak or unworthy to be deserving of anything. Imagine further still that the entirety of the Twist estate was left by the

parents’ wills to the prodigal son, to the exclusion of little Oliver. It would be difficult to argue that this would be in line with community expectations. The “moral duty” of the testators in this instance must surely be to ensure, at the very least, that Oliver is sufficiently provided for. Just as Oliver has asked for “more” gruel from the master, he would be eligible to make a request for further provision from his parents’ estate. Unlike the master, however, the Courts may be more inclined to provide.

Clients often ask: “Why would I make a will when it can be challenged?” The answer to that question is twofold. Firstly, if you do not make a will, you will die intestate, meaning you have no power over testamentary disposition. Oliver, in this instance, may get half of the whole pie. Secondly, you can take steps to protect your will from challenge.

Advice and assistance from a competent lawyer in the drafting process can minimise the likelihood of claims, and can arm your executor(s) with a legal arsenal to assist in the successful defence of such claims, if brought.

Sometimes, this may involve some [reluctant] provision for the Oliver Twists in your life in order to avoid potential claims. Note that provision need not be equal or “fair”. Such concepts do not concern the Courts. Another bowl of gruel may be adequate.

Only a limited category of people are eligible to approach the Court if they feel they have been inadequately provided for, or not provided for at all. Eligible people include spouses, former spouses, children (including

adopted children) and other limited categories.

Eligible persons can claim even if there is no will.

An executor has a duty to defend the estate and attempt to uphold the terms of the will.

However, the executor must act reasonably to seek to negotiate and compromise a claim where necessary. This is particularly so if the estate is relatively small and the cost of defending the proceedings would greatly diminish the value of the estate.

There are other grounds to challenge a will, beyond inadequate provision, including invalidity (such as lack of testamentary capacity) and ambiguity in construction or meaning of a will.

What to do?

See a competent lawyer to draft your will, or review your existing will, especially if you are considering disinheriting Oliver, or if you are concerned that there are any little Olivers lurking in the woodwork.

If you are an appointed executor faced with a challenge on the deceased’s will, you have solemn testamentary duties as trustee.

Ensure you engage a lawyer competent in the defence of Family Provision Claims.

If you are an eligible person and believe you have been left inadequate provision, you may have a claim. To be successful a claim must be made within 12 months of the date of death.

The lawyers at Priest Legal are highly competent at will drafting, and have extensive experience in contested will and estate proceedings.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

103

MS AUTO DETAILING

JOB ON THE

MITCHELL HARTLAND

104 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_interview

H

H A S T I N G S ’ L E A D I N G PA I N T P R O T E C T I O N S P E C I A L I S T S !

i Sarah and Mitch, can you introduce yourselves and your business MS Auto Detailing to our readers?

Mitchell Hartland: business owner I’m a 25 year old with a passion for cars. I like to go to the gym and hang out with my dogs and family in my spare time.

Sarah Carter: Mitchell’s partner I’m 26 years old, and like spending time with my dogs and family.

MS Auto Detailing is an auto detailing business on the NSW Mid North Coast, located in Wauchope.

We specialise in paint protection and interior protection, as well as offering a wide range of detailing needs, some of these include: upholstery shampoo, paint correction, machine polishing, waxes, interior cleans, prams and baby seats.

You name it we do it.

How long have you owned and operated the business for?

We have owned and operated MS

Auto Detailing now for 3 years. We brings both of us joy to work on cars. started our journey in Wingham/Taree Do you have a plan or goal moving but provided a mobile service over the into 2022 for how you wish to run whole Mid North Coast. We then had or expand the business? an opportunity to expand here in Port We don’t really have a goal yet for Macquarie/Wauchope. We have been in 2022 as we have achieved so much the area for over a year now. in the short time we have been here.

How did MS We are hoping to Auto Detailing expand and learn begin? a few new things Transforming It all started into this year and cars into with our own cars, hopefully open something new and then we started longer hours and clean, it gives us doing family/ days so we can fit satisfaction. Our friends on the side in more customers’ main focus is to of our other day cars. provide a quality jobs. Word started How can our experience for all to spread and we readers find out our customers. both decided to more or book in leave our jobs and with you? follow our passion Readers can find for cars. out more by messaging us on Instagram Tell us about a typical day on the or Facebook, calling us on 0459 535 228 job? or come and see us at 49 Production Transforming cars into something Drive, Wauchope. new and clean, it gives us satisfaction.

MS Auto Detailing – the Hastings’ Our main focus is to provide a quality leading paint protection specialists! The experience for all our customers. It only choice.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

105

focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

MINDS

with LAUREN MCALLISTER AND SIMON BANK FROM WEBSTUDIO

T

Following your passion - the key to a successful side hustle

he side hustle is often seen as the fun, exciting venture you have the freedom to do at your own pace. But exactly what does it take to run a small business, while managing a full time job? We sat down with Joshua Moses – Sales and Marketing Manager for Häuslein Tiny House Co by day – with his own business as a professional photographer.

What does your role with Häuslein Tiny House Co involve? I manage the customer journey from the first point of interaction – from our website/socials – all the way to logistics of delivery and installation.

A typical day for me is fielding new leads, sorting out delivery estimates, quotes and contracts, answering questions about the finer details of living tiny and updating buyers. It’s a great place to work and the team is amazing.

What made you start your side hustle as a professional photographer? It started in 2008 when I lived with some fellas that were into the same hobbies, so we turned them into side-hustles. I started shooting for events, took a course and was fortunate to be a second photographer for some established agencies in Sydney.

We leveraged our connections and shared the benefits of old school face-to-face networking which serendipitously we were all good at. I realised quickly that I loved the pace, meeting people on the job, and the opportunity to be

106 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

paid for creativity!

Is your motivation to run a side hustle driven by a desire for extra cash, or pursuing passion? The extra cash is great, but honestly it’s equal parts pursuing passion and networking. I consider it fun being able to provide value while making friends and professional contacts. It’s led to me living in Southern Asia for two years, shooting architecture and facade lighting on high-rise buildings in Sydney, fashion, retail, events, motorsport and fine dining.

Every time I’ve changed my day job I’ve changed industry. It comes down to my desire to keep learning new things. It’s the same with having a side-hustle. It adds seasoning to life that I am totally addicted to.

What is the key to running a successful side hustle? You have to love your main gig as much as your side hustle. I love my day job; it’s a joy to go to work literally every day.

Having a great base-employment creates a balance of motivation for side-hustle vs main income.

I think the very nature of a side-hustle is about unhinging that part of your personality that being wholly ‘career driven’ often inspires you to push to the recesses of your mind.

When we start our careers it’s often a myopic environment that society says to go all-in on.

You can definitely go all-in on both – but only if you love your work.

I feel that’s when you’re living the best life;

happy with your sense of purpose. I don’t consider myself financially wealthy, but I do consider myself wealthy in the enjoyment of life.

How do you manage work/life balance?

Quality time with my wife and kids is paramount. I find in regional spaces there is an acceptance of flexibility due to the lifestyle we came here for. I’ve been able to structure my day-job to allow for school pickups, afternoon hangouts with my kids and I do my best to leave photoshoots to nights or weekends.

Also, I do reject jobs if I’m too busy!

I consider myself young-ish and have the rest of my life to pursue financial stability, release creativity and continue loving my wife, but our time with growing children is limited.

We’re not the type of parents to take our kids somewhere and spectate, we like getting involved.

We’re lucky our amazing local cafe culture helps fill the gaps of energy levels.

What is your advice to someone considering a side hustle? Nothing good comes from rushing, and inversely, the greater time input yields greater reward. Thinking long-term forces you to prepare your actions for that and allows for realistic timelines and avoiding emotional turbulence.

Oh – and the greatest value (side-hustle or not) you can have professionally is your network. Surround yourself with who you want to become!

year seven 2023 MacKillop College Information Night & School Tour: Monday 02 May, 2022

107 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

St Joseph’s Regional College Information Night & School Tour: Tuesday 03 May, 2022

enrolinexcellence.org.au

Civil Design Engineer

JOHN OKRASA C E L E B R AT E S 4 0 Y E A R S O F S E RV I C E TO LAND DYNAMICS

We speak with John Okrasa known to all as Jok, from Land Dynamics.

H

i Jok. Thank you so much for speaking with FOCUS. Firstly we wanted to congratulate you on your 40 years this month of dedicated service to local business Land Dynamics.

What an achievement. I know your commitment and wealth of knowledge is held in very high esteem by your colleagues and the community. Tell us a little about yourself and your role within the business.

It all started when I was on a holiday down on the south coast, it was 1982, I was looking at the Saturday paper and found a position vacant for a Civil Designer in Port Macquarie.

So I gave the newspaper snippet to my wife Pam, we forgot about it, until 4 days back from the holiday!

We stumbled back across the ad, rang, made an appointment, had the interview and I pretty much started the following week!

Prior to that I was with a private company of Engineers and Surveyors in Sydney for 11 years and 6 months with Baulkham Hills Council.

So for the past 40 years my role has been Civil Design Engineer. I work within a team of experts including Planners, Surveyors, Engineers, Project Management and a Landscape Architect as well as our terrific office support team. It’s practically five businesses in one, so never a dull moment especially with multiple projects on the go all over the coast.

One of the most beneficial experiences was

in 1985-86. I’d just completed the design on two jobs - St Albans Estate and Waterview Heights Estate (Kew Rd, just outside of Laurieton). I was lucky enough to work with the road contractor for six months on the site.

This experience was invaluable to me and how I considered my future designs for the various infrastructure (sewer, water mains, stormwater and road structures).

I understand you have worked with one of the directors of the company for 34 years. Tell us about the contribution past and present owners of the business have had on the ongoing success of the company?

I have had the good fortune of working with Graham Burns over a period of some 34 years. Graham has vast experience within the east coast of Australia and abroad with managing land development projects both as a consultant and from the developer side.

Of course each business owner has their

own style, what I note most is both our Directors; Graham and Michael Summers are really future focused with the way we work, utilising technology in the industry and dealing with evolving client needs. In my time with Land Dynamics I have been involved in the Engineering of at least 50 subdivisions varying in sizes to 100 Lots plus.

Jok, can you tell us a little about the origin of the company. I know its roots travel all the way back to 1918.

There have been a number of leaders at the helm of the business over the years – all who have made a wonderful contribution to the Port Macquarie – Hastings area. Whilst the trading name may have changed, there are connections as far back as the Surveyor Robert (Bob) Dulhunty. It is understood that Bob initially worked for the Lands Department and subsequently setup the surveying business some time after his return from World War 1.

There are records of surveys undertaken by

Bob dating back as far as 1913.

The business over this vast period of time has been involved in the development of a large part of Port Macquarie including areas such as Transit Hill, Bellevue Hill, Shelley Beach Estate, Lighthouse Beach Estate, Clifton and North Shore.

Given your years of service, you must have seen vast technological advancements in the industry. Can you outline some of these changes since your commencement with the company.

I have come from producing hand drawn drafting designs on large drafting tables to computer aided design (CAD) at a computer desk with multiple computer screens.

And then you have your calculators. We used to use Chambers Seven-Figure Log Tables and wind up handheld calculators together with drafting instruments such as drafting pens, compass, railway curves, Planimeters (these measure areas), slide rules. (The younger staff are fascinated by all this!) That full hand drawn work is what I miss. What can be produced on computer today though looks magnificent.

Planning

•

Civil Engineering

Seeing the lay of with the music going, What is on the the land and how we’ve had a lot of fun horizon for the get togethers over the business going your designs work and years. forward? translate out in the What advice do you I have been field during have for the up and threatening to retire infrastructure comers: for some years but construction is great.

I believe experience they say I am not Then I go back and look in the field; not just the allowed! Graham and at when the houses office is the key. Seeing Michael have built up start going on. the lay of the land a great team. But we and how your designs are always looking for work and translate out in the field during more Engineers and Designers to deal with the infrastructure construction is great. Then I go expansion of Port Macquarie and surrounding back and look at when the houses start going areas.

We work hard but we have a good time. We on. It’s really satisfying. People’s hopes and dreams and memories are made from those celebrate all the team birthdays, have a weekly houses. shout out for anyone that has gone above and If you have a thirst for learning, an interest beyond, then there are our team functions in design, can operate a computer and have they are not to be missed! Let’s just say we an extremely high attention to detail give us get a bit loud! We are totally harmless but a call, drop us your resume, come and have a the laughter is endless. From water skiing chat with us. Maybe then they’ll let me hang on Stoney Creek aqua park, Australia v’s The up my boots!

World cricket at McInerny Park, Lawn Bowls at Port City and Westport, scenic flights over Port, Thanks Jok. Interview: Sarah Baker. river cruises and hanging out in the boom net •

Surveying

•

Project Management

•

Landscape Architecture

77 Lord Street, Port Macquarie NSW, 2444 E reception@ldynamics.com.au Ph 02 6583 2677

www.ldynamics.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

109

CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY

I

As the Associate Head of School (Research & Graduate Studies) for the School of Allied Health & Exercise Sport sciences, Dr Ian Skinner is a passionate Physiotherapy lecturer and researcher. He inspires his students to make a positive impact in their regional communities though collaborative practice and real world research.

nitially trained in Western Australia, Ian’s work in private practice and chronic pain clinics in NSW enables him to share these valuable experiences with his students.

Completing his PhD at Neuroscience Research Australia looking at the cognitive effects on people with chronic back pain, Ian now works with his students to enable people to live and work to their full capacity in a vibrant regional community.

Ian what started your journey and passion in Allied Health and Physiotherapy?

Like most of the health and exercise science students at Charles Sturt, my passion for allied health was born from a strong desire to help others. Being able to help a grandparent lift and hug their grandchild or help a bride walk down an aisle who didn’t think they would be able to is a privilege.

The Bachelor of Physiotherapy (and Honours Program) is offered on campus at Port Macquarie - can you tell us a little about the course and what makes it unique?

The Bachelor of Physiotherapy course is offered alongside the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science on the Port Macquarie Campus. All three courses are in the same school which allows for collaboration and inter-professional teaching and learning activities. Allied health clinicians do not work in isolation in the community nor then should they train in isolation. Students train with students from other health disciplines to ensure they can work not just with other physiotherapy colleagues 110 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

but other health disciplines.

Another unique part of the program is the varied and diverse clinical placement opportunities that are offered to students. As a regional university there are specific regional placements programs offered to students to ensure students have the necessary clinical and personal skills alongside the appropriate exposure to work in regional areas.

Anyone who has been at university will tell you that the people who teach you will have the strongest impact on you as a student. We are privileged that the staff within the Physiotherapy course and indeed the Occupational Therapy and Exercise Science courses have a mix of rich clinical experience and diverse research interests. Most importantly though they are people that you can approach and have a chat to and that want you to thrive in your selected career.

Graduates of the Physiotherapy program are working in many diverse and interesting roles all over the country.

What kind of careers can graduates go on to enjoy and how they can make a difference?

There are many different varied areas such as neurological physiotherapy (helping people after a stroke), paediatric physiotherapy (children and infants), mental health, gender health, cardio respiratory (often in hospital settings), cancer and chronic pain.

Physiotherapy is fundamentally a profession involved in helping people enjoy the things they love. That means we are involved in most areas of society. There is a good chance there is

an area that will interest you. It is not all about sports teams that’s for sure.

You are a passionate researcher who strives to find solutions and build knowledge to help patients and the broader community, using this passion to inspire your students.

Why is this so important to you and how do you hope to make an impact?

Quite simply we want to make sure that we are doing research that will make a real difference in regional communities. Regional areas have been overlooked for too long when it comes to addressing regional community issues with real world solutions. We are keen to ensure that people across the regions are given the same opportunities to live a rewarding life as those in metropolitan areas. That means being a part of the community and working with those in the community.

Some of the exciting projects that we are currently working on are looking at how to best prepare students for regional clinical placements, evaluating regional pain groups for disadvantaged populations and how to reduce the burden of people with musculoskeletal conditions on hospital admission in regional areas. study.csu.edu.au/courses/allied-healthpharmacy/bachelor-physiotherapy Thakns Ian.

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

PROPERTY GUIDE

G.J. Gardner HOMES

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

111

focus_interview

G.J. Gardner HOMES

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

Drewe together with wife Holly (and a family of 7 kids!) are the proud owners and operators of your local G.J. Gardner Homes Port Macquarie

D

rewe’s career began in construction, taking him all over the globe for a range of projects, including high-end ski fields in the US to major projects in coastal cities and inland towns across Australia.

After that, they decided they wanted to raise their kids in Holly’s home town and establish themselves as local home builders in Port Macquarie. Through this, Drewe has brought his specialised construction skills to deliver great homes for residents of Port Macquarie.

Hi Drewe and Holly, it’s been a whole year since you opened up GJ Gardner Port Macquarie, tell us what has the first year been like for you all?

Our first year of business has been a good mix of exciting achievements and difficult challenges.

A few really standout achievements for us were the opening of our first display home and the fitout and opening of our design studio.

These were two goals we were very passionate about achieving in our first year of business.

It was important for us to be able to provide a standout service for our clients and set the

112 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Our team is made up of: standard from the start.

The Franchisees, Drewe and Holly Timewell.

Our successes have not come without Drewe has taken on many, if not all, roles challenges – having our office flooded a year since the business started. Having 37 years of ago certainly was a hurdle we did not factor building and project management experience into our first year of trading, through to the he has filled the gaps in ongoing material almost every role as we shortages we faced. worked on building our We worked hard to With effortless team in the early days. relocate and reestablish connections Holly is Office Manager our new office / design throughout the and Accounts Manager. studio and strengthen home, the Samsara Steph (Boese) is our our supply chains to seamlessly flows New Homes Consultant, avoid the lengthy delays between indoor and working out of the faced in the industry for outdoor living spaces display home in Sovereign supply of vital building making the most of Hill Display Village. Steph products. We have a resort style living. started out working in great team who together Administration but when with our quality trades a New Homes Consultant have mitigated all the position became available Steph was one of the challenges thrown at us. first to apply for the position. We knew Steph Finding such an amazing team of people to would be the perfect person for the job and has work with has been a huge part of managing proven us right very early on in her role. these challenges and creating success.

Mark (McAslan) has previously worked for GJ Can you introduce us to your team at GJ Gardner in New Zealand and, since moving to Gardner Homes?

We wanted to focus on building something we felt was suited to the local area, adding our own touches. A big part of our vision was building a HOME rather than a house.

Australia with his family, has joined our team as Construction Supervisor.

Ngahree (Cutler) has recently joined our team as Construction Administrator / Receptionist (and Drewe’s saving grace). She has brought with her a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Michaela (Killick) joined our team as a Display Home Host, allowing us to provide the public with access to see through our display home 7 days a week.

Your brand new display home has been open for a few months, can you take us through the home and tell us a bit about the key features and build itself?

The completion and opening of our display home in December last year has definitely been a highlight for us. With effortless connections throughout the home, the Samsara seamlessly flows between indoor and outdoor living spaces making the most of resort style living.

We wanted to focus on building something we felt was suited to the local area, adding our own touches. A big part of our vision

was building a HOME rather than a house.

We wanted to create something people walk into and instantly get a feel for home.

Living coastal, with one of the best climates, it was important to create outdoor spaces that felt just as homely as the indoors.

A central courtyard allows light and breezes to enter the home, providing a relaxed and comfortable environment while a covered alfresco extends the open plan living space outdoors for year-round entertaining.

A spacious master suite is privately positioned to the front of home, complete with elegant ensuite and walk-in robe, while the kids’ zone to the rear has generous sized bedrooms, a family bathroom and an activity room or study.

The separate lounge room provides a quiet space to relax and unwind while maintaining a strong connection to the main living areas and central courtyard.

The build came together exactly as we envisioned, with the hard work of all the trades that worked on the build, and our suppliers

providing us with top quality materials, was a team effort that paid off perfectly.

What is GJ’s point of difference?

At GJ Gardner Homes Port Macquarie we pride ourselves on delivering a quality home to all our clients. Getting to know our clients and understanding what is important to them in a home, and working closely with them throughout the whole process, from the moment they walk in our doors through to handing them the keys to their new home.

Building these relationships is just as important to us as building their homes.

We want every client to feel the joy of building.

What’s the best way to contact you?

We invite anyone who is looking to build or thinking about it to come and take a look through our display home at 4 York St, Sovereign Hills Display Village or our Design Studio at 6/4 Bay St, Bay Park Plaza, Port Macquarie. Come and meet the team, have a coffee and a chat.

Phone 02 6533 1055 Email portmacquarie@gjgardner.com.au Web gjgardner.com.au/home-builders/newsouth-wales/port-macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

113

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

2 8 0

D I S P L AY

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

H O M E

116 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

117

118 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Renovate bathroom with with ease ease Renovate your your bathroom COMPLETE BATHROOM PACKAGES COMPLETE BATHROOM PACKAGES

Take the fuss out of decision-making by selecting one of the Amber complete bathroom Take the fuss out of decision-making by selecting one of the Amber complete bathroom packages. Carefully curated to reflect the latest trends in modern design, our packages are packages. Carefully curated to reflect the latest trends in modern design, our packages are available in four distinct styles andinclude tiles, bath, tapware, vanity, toilet, and accessories. available in four distinct styles andinclude tiles, bath, tapware, vanity, toilet, and accessories.

Available now at Amber Port Macquarie. Visit the showroom to see our packages Available now at Amber Port Macquarie. Visit the showroom to see our packages on display and get help from our expert staff on your renovation. on display and get help from our expert staff on your renovation.

amber has the the answer. answer. amber has Amber Port Macquarie Amber Port Macquarie 193 Lake Rd. 193 Lake Rd. Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Port Macquarie NSW 2444

(02) 6581 5066 (02) 6581 5066 Open 6 Days a week Open 6 Days a week

THE ALL - NEW LEXUS NX FEEL MORE IN EVERY MOMENT WELCOME YOUR EVERY SENSE — to the all-new Lexus NX. With striking new looks and thoughtful technology, the NX has been crafted for exhilaration. Available in petrol, Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid for the ultimate flexibility and fuel efficiency of petrol and electric seamlessly working together. Inside, be immersed in a cabin that feels like an extension of you. With a digital rearview mirror for parking assistance *, 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display *, voice activation, and amazing safety features such as the intuitive e-Latch and Safe Exit Assist *, designed for the unexpected.

Book a test drive today.

LE XUS NX

UNL IMITED KMS WAR R ANTY

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

Overseas model shown. Australian specifications and features may vary. please contact your local Lexus Dealer for details.

Available on NX 350 Sports Luxury & F Sport + EP 2, NX 350h Sports Luxury & F Sport + EP 2 & NX 450h+ models. Driver assist feature.

Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner’s Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.

112 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus