Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i196 by Focus

issue

196 JULY 2022

K I L L I C K

LUMINOSITY YOUTH SUMMIT

2 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

At HEM, we offer far more than just a slick marketing campaign to get your home sold. We offer a personalised, innovative service that goes beyond the standard one-size fits all approach of traditional agents. We do more, to get you more. Helping you every step of the way, by taking care of all the jobs you can’t or just don’t want to do, to make your move as stressfree and successful as possible. In a changing market, getting the little details right matters more than ever. Our FREE in-house property styling service is just one way we can make your home stand out from the crowd, attract more buyers and ultimately help you get the dream price. Throughout the years we have seen our clients walk away with $100,000’s more in their pockets and enjoy smoother, stress-free sales. So if you are thinking of selling, don’t settle for an average result or approach. SELL HAPPY with HEM, the home of happy ever more’s.

4 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

WELCOME TO HIGHFIELDS MANOR Highfields Manor is a beautiful new purpose-built residential aged care facility opening in Port Macquarie this July. Our residents will be able to enjoy our architect-designed facilities, landscaped gardens, wellness centre, cinema and on-site coffee shop, secure in the knowledge that they have the care and support of our friendly, experienced team. Highfields Manor will offer 105 residential places - all bedrooms have en suite bathrooms. We will provide 24-hour personalised care to permanent residents in an ageing in place environment and respite care, rehabilitation and palliative care services.

Permanent Aged Care The dedicated team at Highfields Manor offers responsive and flexible care to our residents based on their individual needs. With a focus on ‘reablement’, we provide care for people with high and low needs and take a personcentred approach, adapting our services to each of our residents alongside specialist rehabilitation and dementia support.

Respite Care Respite care can give a carer a muchneeded break and can also give a potential resident the opportunity to trial our care. Our friendly, expert team are on hand to work with temporary residents, their carers and families to ensure our respite residents receive the most appropriate care and that their stay with us is a positive experience for everyone involved.

8 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

ING

Facilities Highfields Manor has been architect designed to offer the best in contemporary, residential aged care. The clean, modern interiors combine beauty and best practice in seniors living so our residents feel at home and supported. Our 105 brand new, private rooms all feature ensuite bathrooms, ample storage and space to welcome family and friends. Residents can relax and entertain visitors in beautifully landscaped courtyards and spacious terraces as well in our indoor lounges and café. Therapy sessions are available in our wellness centre fitted with state-of-the-art rehabilitation and wellness equipment.

For all enquiries contact Kim Suitor on 0458 164 029 Visit our website today. www.highfieldsmanor.com.au Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Lighthouse beach sunrise by Danielle Lake

Welcome to the JULY 2022 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

appy new financial year. For some of us this is just as exciting as the calendar new year. In business this can mean a fresh start, the turning of a new page and time to look at what lies ahead. New targets, fresh ideas that we have been wanting to put into action, perhaps even the revamping of our “old” ways. Whatever your new financial year goals may be, personal or business orientated, enjoy the process of reaching those goals and make sure you celebrate the small wins along the way because they are just as important as the big ones. In this edition Luminosity celebrates 10 years this July and

Wauchope girl Nixi Killick graces our cover. Nixi will return to her hometown roots as a keynote speaker at this year’s Luminosity Youth Summit. Check out Nixi’s interview on pages 16-19. NAIDOC week celebrations also take place this month. We catch up with Connie Smith who is part of the Ready Mob team and sit down with Jason Ridgeway from BlackBoy Creations. We have a beautiful interview with Jess Davidson, the owner of Round & Round Cafe, about her monthly Mumma Mingle. Next month You know it, August is our annual Men In Business edition AND marks 2 years since we returned with our NEW FOCUS after our

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

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

COVID break. Time sure does fly when you are having fun ;-) Congratulations; Our very own Sarah Baker has written a childrens book which is super exciting. Congratulations Sarah. Read all about her book The Pearl Beach Bakery on page 35. THANK YOU! I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our advertisers who support FOCUS and our readers who pick up a copy each and every month. We are a small team who really love putting together this local publication for you. And welcome to our visitors who are here enjoying their school holiday break. You have picked a beautiful spot. Be safe, see you out and about :)

ART DIRECTOR 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.

10 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

WHAT’S ON @ GLASSHOUSE BJORN AGAIN

QUEEN BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY - 50 YEARS ON

Friday 22 July, 8pm

12 August, 8pm

MARK VINCENT PHANTOM OF THE OPERA & ALL THE CLASSICS 7 August, 2pm

EIREBORNE 17 August, 2pm & 7.30pm

EXHIBITION

SUSPENDED MOMENT

COURAGE TO CARE 9 July - 28 August

2 July - 4 September

Courage to Care is a non-profit organisation dedicated to communicating the importance of social tolerance and of standing up to prejudice, injustice and discrimination wherever it exists.

EXHIBITION

COASTAL INSPIRATIONS FINAL DAYS Closes Sunday 3 July

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

glasshouse.org.au

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

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

Follow Glasshouse:

Regional Gallery Opening Hours Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays

Issue 196 - July 2022 INTERVIEWS

NIXI KILLICK

This futuristic fashion designer and Imagineer returns to her hometown as a keynote speaker at the Luminosity Youth Summit celebrating 10 years of inspiring young people.

NATALIE O’DONNELL

Local Port Macquarie photographer Natalie O’Donnell is passionate about capturing those first family moments so we can cherish them forever.

JASON RIDGEWAY

Jason Ridgeway is a proud Dunghutti man, born and raised in Kempsey. We spoke about his career, culture, inspiration and how we can further support Indigenous Australian artists.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 46. Chop ’n’ Chill - From the Shaker

Care Professionals

47. Alex Cassegrain - Wine Time

AND AGED CARE SERVICES

49. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 67. Rachel Leman - Fitness Update 85. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice 87. Sophie Knight - Hastings Business Womens Network 89. Alan Priest - Legal Light CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

SOPHIE KNIGHT

91. Emma Walker & Simon Bank - Business Minds 94. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate 102. Elders Lifestyle Experts - Property Management

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Thank you for your contribution to FOCUS. Follow us on 12 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

62 focusmag.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

JULY

2022

WINTER WONDERLAND

Sovereign Place Town Centre forecourt is transforming into a winter wonderland with a ‘synthetic’ ice rink, the perfect activity for the winter school holidays, a romantic date or even a little exercise. All sessions are 45 minutes and start on the hour from 10am to 8pm daily (last session at 7pm). Book your skating session to make sure you don’t miss out. More info hello@sovereignhills.com.au or sovereignhills.com.au

SPECIAL DINNER NIGHT AT THE BYABARRA

The Greek Banquet – a 5-course Greek style dinner night at The Byabarra. Where 1078 Comboyne Rd When Saturday 16th July Tickets $75 Bookings Call Kez (02) 6587 1167 or come to The Byabarra to secure your ticket today!

MINDFULNESS

MEDITATION WORKSHOP

MINECRAFT MARATHON

Join us for a 1.5 hour Mindfulness Meditation Workshop where we will be working through a variety of ways to bring more mindfulness into your every day, as well as a few mindful breathing meditations and a short mindful activity. Please bring a journal and pen. Where The Willow Room, 1/243 High Street, Wauchope Cost $25, includes tea and materials used Bookings paypal.me/BernieGinnane

14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

DINNER SHOW

Wicked Elf Beer and Mid North Social Comedy Club bring you “Wicked Laughs”. The 2-course dinner show experience features a line-up of 4 fantastic Australian comedians. When Thursday 21st July 6:30pm - 9:30pm Where 58 Uralla Road, Port Macquarie More info 0402 697 379 midnorthsocial@gmail.com midnorthsocial.com.au

16 24

COMPUTER CAPERS

Computer Capers Minecraft Marathon Returns to Port Macquarie for the July School Holidays - Providing Building Challenges and Collaborative Activities all on our Safe Secure platform. Sessions running weekdays throughout the July Holidays When 9:00am - 3:30pm Where Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium Bookings computercapers.com.au

WICKED LAUGHS COMEDY

3 RIVERS MINI MARATHON

The 3 Rivers Mini Marathon is a fun water event for all self-propelled craft; rowboat, surf boat, kayak, surf ski, dragon boat, ocean ski, outrigger, SUP and canoe. The event is open to anyone over the age of 12. When 24th July Event seat fee $40 General entry closes at 22nd July 11:59pm $45. Late Registration: on the day at the start point. More info evolutionise.com.au/ pmrc/events/141968/

2 2 0 2 C E D H T 10 T A S th 9 I FR

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

16 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

OCUS catches up with Nixi to talk about the exciting developments happening with her clothing label and her contribution to Luminosity’s ten year event: dangerous ideas for success. Hi Nixi. It is such a pleasure to speak with you. Your work in the arts and fashion space is beyond inspiring! Tell us a little about yourself as a fashion designer? Thank you Sarah. Well, my name is Nixi and I am an Imagineer. I work with augmented reality activated clothing and fashion as a tool for interactive experiences and connecting communities to facilitate intimacy with wearable technology, and the idea of bringing mixed reality into our every day. And you have cultivated, in your own right and with huge success, I might add, an iconic unisex fashion label, which has seen you collaborate with music superstars and international fashion events. What are you currently working on?

K C I L L I K Futuristic fashion designer and Imagineer Nixi Killick will return to her hometown roots as a keynote speaker at this July’s Luminosity Youth Summit celebrating 10 years of inspiring young people through igniting courage, creativity and connection.

I’m currently working on a new development of the next rendition of my augmented reality activations within clothing. I’ve got a few collections on the horizon that we’ll be launching (without giving too much away) with new, much more interactive and more elaborate augmented experiences attached. Your creations show a futuristic and playful edge to them definitely questioning fashion status quo. You also love colour and detail. Is it important for you to continue to push the boundaries in the fashion world? Definitely, I think creating my label was really about recontextualizing the parameters of fashion and really probing what those perimeters of possibility look like. For me that was really important to leverage a sense of techno optimism to sort of articulate the idea of wearables, and where you can take fashion beyond just every day, and kind of blur those lines.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Your clothing label has been described as a ‘vibrant mix of psychedelic art work and sculptured techno-induced wearables’ that, I think, viewing from an external point of view really promotes joy and fun for the wearer. Has this been your intention when creating pieces? Yes. I definitely see garments as wearable tools. They carry out character. They allow us to project our personality and connect us to our community. So for me, I think it’s always been instinctual. It’s kind of in-built into my language. And that comes from my upbringing and things like that. I have always seen colour as a tool for connection and a tool for joy. And I think that’s a really important part of creating a magical future. Colour is really integral to a positive outlook. Can you tell us about some of the design collaborations you’ve been a part of and can you mention some of the big names you have worked with? I know there have been a few. I have worked with people like Lady Gaga, Sia, Kimbra. My augmented reality activated collection is the most recent and exciting collaboration. I also now have an app; a free app that you can download. So that’s what sort of allows this augmented reality experience to take place. You’re a keynote speaker at this year’s Luminosity Youth Summit, which this year celebrates 10 years of inspiring young 18 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

packed three day event filled with mainstage magic, keynote speeches, performances and hands-on workshops for some serious fun and motivation. What do you hope people and particularly young people will take away from this upcoming event? I guess for me it’s really about sharing that view or that energy around positivity and a sense of optimism for the future and really trying to cultivate the energy around your power to create your own future. And also having that ownership of your courage and your ability to usher into existence anything that you I have always can imagine. So I think trying to seen colour as instill in people that a tool for connection people to follow idea that the sky’s the and a tool for joy. their passions. limit and especially And I think that’s a The event is in the context for really important designed to me coming back to part of creating a ignite creativity, where I grew up, I magical future. excellence and can be an example entrepreneurship that anything’s and fosters possible. purpose, health And that leads and wellbeing me into my next amongst young people aged 15-25. How question. You are originally a Wauchope do you plan to inspire and uplift the girl, which is a very small part of the leaders of tomorrow? world and you are living proof that the I firmly believe that we have the sky really is the limit. What would you say responsibility to imagine the most to people about chasing their dreams and amazing possible future for ourselves and building a career in the fashion industry? pull our present selves forward to meet I would say that anything is possible. that. So I think it’s really important when And I think it’s up to you to dream up your engaging with younger creatives and dream and your future. You really have younger visionaries, to share that view of the power to do anything you want. And optimism and positivity. don’t let anything get in the way of the We have dealt with isolation over the scale of your ideas. past two years but really imagination rules And just finally, Nixi. for people wanting like never before now. Because we have to find out more about you and connect had to remove a lot of our physical social with you, how can they best reach you? interactions, our imagination is a really Probably the best way for people to powerful and key tool that we can use. connect with me would be to look on my And that’s where I think we really need to Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ talk about how we can harness creativity nixikillick/ or my website in that imagination to amplify our courage https://www.nixikillick.com/ I also have a and allow us to kind of project forward YouTube channel and overcome challenges to connect with https://www.youtube.com/channel/ our community. UCkD9lFa7zkcBg31cXo8wQfg The all-stars summit will be an action Thanks Nixi. Interview: Sarah Baker.

I would say that anything is possible. And I think it’s up to you to dream up your dream and your future. You really have the power to do anything you want.

K C I L K I L

The Plug: Luminosity ‘All Stars’ Youth Summit 27 - 29th July 2022 Tickets: luminosityyouthsummit.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Meet the Wildlife! Week 1 – 4th July to 8th July, 10am to 1pm Join us on Centre Court and meet the team from the Billabong Zoo! Learn about some of their wonderful friends from Monday 4th July to Friday 8th July. Shows will be running on the half hour from 10am to 1pm.

FREE Sand Art Workshop Week 2 – 11th to 15th July, 10am to 2pm Let your creativity come alive with our Sand Art Workshop on Centre Court. Available daily from 11th to 15th July from 10am to 2pm. PLUS receive a free Fidget Poppit!* Limited stock daily

NATALIE O’DONNELL

Local Port Macquarie photographer Natalie O’Donnell is passionate about capturing those first family moments to cherish forever.

i Natalie. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. Your photographic skills are extraordinary, particularly capturing those sweet close-up details of newborns. What is it you love about photographing new family moments? I love being behind the camera, though I cherish newborn photography. They’re so small and precious... their little toes, little fingers and of course the new born baby smell, who doesn’t love that!?!? The newborn stage is such a small window too, it goes so quickly. They change before your eyes and it takes some new mums by surprise. I also get to witness the pure love parents have for their new babies... It’s more than special. So often I’m invited back to capture my clients as their families grow. They come back year after year and I get to see the once 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

newborn baby now promoted to big sister the quality of my work I can ensure my or big brother – it is an honour to document clients can print to any desired size without their family journey. diminishing its quality. I encourage all my When did you first pick up a camera and clients to “professionally print” their photos what is it you love about the craft? and display them. Especially in today’s world, I’ve had a camera in my hand for as long as where everything is so digitised and viewed I can remember. While predominantly on phones I have a lot of respect or PC screens etc... you and admiration for other really shouldn’t require I love printed fields of photography, electricity to see an photos & albums photographing people image of someone you - with the quality of is my specialty and love. my work I can ensure I love the challenge The amount of positive my clients can print to of capturing the true comments I receive from any desired size without essence of my clients. clients when they walk diminishing its quality. I enjoy all aspects of into my studio and view photography – shooting, all my printed samples lighting, set design, gives me hope that the printing and even the digital editing side of “printed image” is still very much alive and photography (which requires many, many loved. hours of computer processing). It’s also why I take my craft seriously – I I love printed photos and albums – with know how important my finished product can

In my studio I have a lighting kit containing 3 different lights & modifiers. My studio gives me so much joy. I love being in control of the light & the very different effects you can achieve depending on your placement. be to families. I’ve lost loved ones recently and it’s so disheartening when you realise how very few photos you have of them. You’d be surprised how common and unfortunate this is, and people only realise once it’s too late. So I encourage everyone, more now than ever, don’t wait as time is of the essence. What type of equipment do you predominantly use? In my camera bag I have 3 digital SLR camera bodies along with 8 different lenses, a mix of prime lenses and zoom lenses which I change quite regularly during a family or

maternity session. I am both a studio and natural light photographer. In my studio I have a lighting kit containing 3 different lights and modifiers. My studio gives me so much joy. I love being in control of the light and the very different effects you can achieve depending on your placement. But when I’m shooting outdoors it’s all about that beautiful golden ball in the sky. Mother Nature hasn’t been too friendly of late (so much rain). However fingers crossed that is behind us because winter sunsets are my

favourite! Tell us a little about your artistry expertise and what you most like to create in your photography, as I understand styling and setting the scene form a major part of your work. I have been photographing professionally now for over 10 years. Many afternoons are spent scouting for locations where the afternoon light falls perfectly. This obviously changes regularly with the seasons and daylight saving. My children are so used to me searching for “pockets of light” that they too even call out when driving around “oh look Mum, that light looks beautiful there”. These comments warm my heart. Plenty of practice, having an eye for detail and being my own harshest critic has helped me out along the way. Continues... GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

“select a dress” appointment. It takes the In relation to people, understanding body stress out of finding something suitable to shape is essential. After years of experience wear when you are 32+ weeks into your I’m able to bring out the best in my clients. pregnancy. Based on the colour of dress By using certain angles and giving direction selected, we then usually discuss location for body position and hand placement – this options that would be is a very important part most suitable. of my shooting process What packages and work flow. Knowing Creating digital are available for what looks good art to share people interested “photographically” with photographers in engaging your all while removing the around the world is services? “awkwardness” of an honour & allows I specialise in being photographed me another avenue to Maternity, Studio is all part of my job. be creative. Newborn, Family Making sure everyone is and Children. I also relaxed is important to offer headshots me – my sessions are a for business professionals and content/ lot of fun. branding photography. All packages Good communication with your client are available to view on my website is extremely important. I pride myself in natalieodonnellphotography.com understanding what my client wants to What have been some of your highlights achieve from their session. I always ask for looking back at your career? their input when it comes to choosing a Joining an international backdrop design location type. team would have to be at the top of the I also have quite a large variety of list. Creating digital art to share with flattering dresses for my maternity clients. photographers around the world is an They love coming in the studio for their 24 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

honour and allows me another avenue to be creative. The maternity image of the Indigenous woman walking through the water received great exposure all over Australia – it was shared by multiple media social platforms and showcased over in the USA by the Australian Embassy. I was humbled and very proud of the response it received. Receiving a silver award in an International Photography competition a few years ago was also a huge highlight. That made me very proud and the image hangs front and centre in my studio But my favourite thing is knowing that my work is so well regarded in our community. I enjoy comments like “I knew this was one of your images before I even saw your name on it!” I like that my work is consistent and stands out as my own. What can people expect from you personally during a session? For outdoor sessions it’s doing whatever it takes to get the shot; standing in the ocean, hanging over a bridge, hanging off a tree, getting in some really long grass, being silly, bouncing around, cracking jokes – anything

to get those natural smiles. In the studio with newborn babies it’s a very different vibe. I’m very chilled, very relaxed. I’m a baby whisperer. It’s all about the babies and their comfort. I shush, I To avoid hum, I play soft spa like disappointment, music. It’s all very zen. it is best for clients to The parents often relax so much that they catch register their interest some zzz’s themselves! at the start of their What is on the wonderful Santa 2nd trimester. This will horizon for you for sessions, can you secure their place in my the second half of share a little more busy schedule. 2022? about them? Babies, babies This will be my 7th and more babies! year offering Santa My calendar is almost full for 2022! Not photos but it’s much more than just photos everyone thinks about organising newborn with Santa, it’s an experience! It is my photography during their pregnancy journey. busiest and most favourite time of year. I Sometimes I am able to fit in the occasional have always been a believer in the magic of last-minute booking. But not always. To Christmas and adore that most of my little avoid disappointment, it is best for clients clients believe “my Santa” is the real deal. to register their interest at the start of their The most sought after Christmas session is second trimester. This will secure their place the “Baking with Santa” set up. A beautiful in my busy schedule. Then it’s all about rustic Christmas kitchen with real choc chip Christmas and Santa sessions – the planning cookies and lots of messy flour fun. All the for Christmas sets is already underway. kids (both big and small) love these sessions because they get to avoid the busy and Yes, I have heard a lot about your

often overwhelming shopping mall Santa, and if the parents are up for it you get a very messy and fun family photo. I usually release them late August to early October, to then shoot them throughout November and early December. Keeping an eye on my Facebook page is usually the best way to find out when the release will be. For people wanting to find out more about your work or connect with you online, how can they best touch base with you? I can be found via my social pages: natalieodonnellphotography natalieodonnellphotography info@natalieodonnellphotography.com Thanks Natalie. Interview: Sarah Baker. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

What's on

IN THE HASTINGS 3-10 JULY 2022

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

4TH JULY

5TH JULY

6TH JULY

09:30am Flag Raising Town Green 10.00am Morning Tea At Birpai Lands Council 12:00-5:00pm Fast 5 Sports Tournaments for Youth 12-18yrs & Adults 19 and over Wauchope Indoor Stadium

10:00am-1:00pm Jewellery Making Workshop At Bunyah, booking is essential Lunch provided 11.30am-1.30pm Kids Ten Pin Bowling Wave Bowl 1:00-3:00pm Elders Bingo Westport Club, contact Jess 0432 360 664 Tristram 0475 900 252

10:00am Morning Tea Port Macquarie Base Hospital 10:00am-12:00pm NAIDOC Picnic The Youth Hub 140 Horton Street Port Macquarie 11:00am-2:30pm NAIDOC Youth Fishing Workshop Settlement Point Park Port Macquarie Contact below to register 0456 631 668 or kelly.gittins@dpi.nsw.gov.au 2:00pm Afternoon Tea Port Macquarie Community Health

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

7TH JULY

8TH JULY

10:00am Port Macquarie Family Fun Day At Birpai Lands Council (Wet weather option at Port Macquarie Race Club)

TBC Flag Raising and Morning Tea Wauchope Hospital 12:00-5:00pm Movie Day Wauchope Indoor Stadium To register contact Jodie Dungay 0436 630 025 or Stacey Carney 0488 339 901

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

JASON RIDGEWAY BlackBoyCreations

28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Jason Ridgeway is a proud Dunghutti man, born and raised in Kempsey. We sat down with Jason to ask a few questions about his career, culture, inspiration and how individuals can further support Indigenous Australian artists.

ow long have you been put together with each of our creative team’s painting and what connection and love for our local area. This inspired you to start? was an important aspect as the event itself I started painting was to showcase talent within the area. approximately 7 years We decided to put together 3 artworks ago. I started painting with all having the aspect of coming together when I lost my sister to suicide. It was a and connecting to country. form of escape along with being a coping With all this being said, our collaboration mechanism. I've been doing it for 3 years has been connected together in many full-time, and thought different ways, we’ve it was time to open a made some great shop front as customers friends, we have many My expression of were wanting to view dreams for the future my culture artworks and attend and have no doubt through my art is workshops. We’ve been with our abundance created with operating from our of ideas and creativity connection. It has an gallery for 8 months. that what we could do emotional feel and a What is your creative is absolutely limitless. sense of belonging process? Continues.... which is a little on what Nature has a big our culture is about. place in my art along with connecting to country and my spiritual beliefs. Experience and knowledge passed down from my elders also play a big part in my creativity. How do you tell stories through your art? My art is depicted with stories through symbols. Symbols that represent and depict our song lines. How do you express your culture through your art? My expression of my culture through my art is created with connection. It has an emotional feel and a sense of belonging which is a little on what our culture is about. It gives you a sense of belonging and an emotional attachment. What was the inspiration behind your first and latest fashion line? The story behind our creations to our amazing items for the fashion show were

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

BlackBoyCreations

How can people support Aboriginal artists? People can support us in many forms. Such as sharing our social media, talking about us in conversation and visiting our shops/workspaces. It doesn’t mean you have to purchase an artwork. Support for me is coming into our shops and saying hello and maybe referring a friend or family member. How can people ensure they’re purchasing authentic Aboriginal art? If a customer walks into my shop they can be guaranteed to purchase authentic Aboriginal art as most of the time you can see me at work in my creative space. Do some research on an artist you’re thinking of purchasing an artwork from. Encourage people to buy direct from the artist to cut out the middleman, that way you know your support isn’t going into a middleman’s pocket.

30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

My ancestors once walked this beautiful valley in Dunghutti country and it makes me feel proud and privileged that I get to walk on places and connect to them with my wife, our children and the rest of the community.

What do you love most about your land and community? What I love most about my land and community is that my family traces back 7 generations and that’s just what’s written and recorded. My ancestors once walked this beautiful valley in Dunghutti country and it makes me feel proud and privileged that I get to walk on places and connect to them with my wife, our children and the rest of the community. Our community is slowly coming together. There’s still a long way to go but the change is coming. For me I’d love to go back to basics. I get to teach our children the basics of living and connect to what was once every day life for our elders. Is your work for sale? And where can we view your pieces? Yes, my creations are for sale. You can view them on my social media platforms,

they are Blackboycreations Facebook and Instagram and also on my website which is BlackBoyCreations.com.au Or you can pop into our gallery and view them personally at 1-5 Remembrance Way, in the old cheese factory at Frederickton just on the outskirts of Kempsey. How can we get in touch? You can pop into the gallery, send us a message on any of our social medias and they also have our contact details. Thanks Jason.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

CONNIE S M I T H READY MOB

READY MOB is an Aboriginal health service tackling Indigenous smoking through community awareness and local campaigns. We had a chat with Connie Smith, senior Aboriginal Health Worker, to find out all about their message and what they have been doing in the community.

an you tell us about how Ready Mob got started and what the idea behind it is? Galambila Aboriginal Health Service – Ready Mob is a government funded program, supported since 2014 by The National Best Practice Unit Tackling Indigenous Smoking (NBPU TIS). It has been established to provide tailored support to 37 organisations funded under the national Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) program in Australia.

32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Port Macquarie-Hastings region, which is the Tribal Footprint of Gumbaynggirr (Coffs Harbour), Dunghutti (Kempsey), Birpai (Port Macquarie). What is your role with Ready Mob? I’m a senior Aboriginal Health Worker in The Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) program, aiming to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The Ready Mob people by reducing the team decided prevalence of tobacco that it was time to use through population health promotion create an awareness The Team created the activities. campaign that had a name Ready Mob which What do you hope this more serious tone is an acronym meaning program will achieve than previous Really Evaluate And for the community and campaigns. Decide Yourself – Make why is it important to Ourselves Better. you? This is a program run Educating and on the Mid North investing in a local workforce enables Ready Coast, what areas does it cover? Mob staff to role model and embed healthy Ready Mob is based in Galambila Aboriginal values through events, social marketing Health Service, Coffs Harbour. We cover from and population health approaches that are South of Grafton all the way through to the

developed for, with and in our local Aboriginal Communities using local faces and places. Ready Mob encourages ownership and provides the tools and resources for Community to make positive health choices. It’s important Community are able to take these messages away without being loaded with guilt or shame. Ready Mob messages are empowering and are concerned with protecting and positively influencing our people to quit or not to start smoking in the first place, and if they choose to smoke not to affect those around them with second-hand and third-hand smoke. What are some of the ways Ready Mob gets involved with the community? Ready Mob have provided the opportunity encouraging our communities across the region and taking ownership in smoke-free messaging by: • Developing smoke-free policies within the workplaces. • Education in group activities, school delivery sessions. • Supporting smoke-free homes and cars within our surveys, pledges, social media, and TV ads. • Encouraging smoke-free events and designated signs so no-one is excluded, but aware of taking that ownership by smoking away from everyone. • Creating champions in communities and local sporting clubs by promoting smokefree messages across all three regions, to increase awareness around ALL the Smoke-free Environment Act 2000. One of the community campaigns is a series of interviews with real locals, who are obviously invested in helping to make change with the program. Can you tell us about some of their stories and what some of their motivation has been? The “Who are you sharing your smoke with” campaign was designed to increase awareness of second-hand and third-hand smoke and the impact it has on children and young people. The Ready Mob team decided that it was time to create an awareness campaign that had a more serious tone than previous campaigns. Especially considering the dangers and ill health effects of second-hand and third-hand smoke. As a team, together we discussed and planned the content of the ads that were

Ready Mob

messages are filmed in recognisable community. Their initial places across our region reactions were recorded, empowering and are and that could commonly and endorsement concerned with be places where people assured, before launching protecting and smoke such as inside the the TV commercial. positively influencing home, in a car, at the A lot of the feedback our people to quit or park and at the beach. was seeing local faces not to start smoking These opportunities and getting the younger in the first place... for the Community generation involved. were created to take Where can people find ownership, that we out more about Ready launched in 2019 with the BOKA ads. We’ve Mob? used Community members within the three You can also find us at events if you go to regions we covered, to deliver the smoke-free our Facebook page – just search for “Ready messages around second-hand and third-hand Mob” with the Big Heart Symbol. smoking. Ready Mob have created an online private What sort of response have you seen to yarning page specifically for anyone needing the program? support and education on their journey to quit Through TV commercials, posters and social smoking. This also includes providing healthy media, and hiring billboards across the region alternatives and quitting tips. (4 in total) which displayed the messaging in If you’re interested or know anyone who the lead up to World No Tobacco Day. might want to try the page out, give it a follow. It connected with a large number of people Also, if you’re wanting to view our other TV along the Mid North Coast to encourage Campaign ads you can find them on YouTube. smokers wanting support to help quit, as well We’ve launched a new Campaign “Feed as educating about the dangers of second-hand the Mob, Not the Habit” which you’ll find on and third-hand smoke. Increasing awareness of air on commercial TV, WIN channels, which is ‘where’ they’re lighting up. currently streaming. We have held a launch event and invited This NAIDOC Week, the Port Macquarieall the participants of the campaign to come Hastings Ready Mob have collaborated with the together and see the commercial for the Sub-committee, who will be hosting the First first time, prior to airing the campaign in the Showcase Night Awards on the 16th July, 2022. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

MAKE IT

to the

ake a short trip south to see a diverse array of performances over the next 6 months, with the entertainment industry buzzing again. Our shows will make you laugh and smile, dance and discover, and every one will have you experiencing extraordinarily talented entertainers from around Australia and beyond.

MEC

From the Naked Magicians, just returned from their residency in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand, to The Comedy of Errors produced by Bell Shakespeare, Australia’s best Shakespearean company. There are performances for the kids with the spectacular and interactive Erth’s Prehistoric World, Backbone – a high octane circus, and the award winning Monkey Baa Theatre Company presenting Edward the Emu.

Make it to the MEC for a great day or night of entertainment and support the performing arts industry at the Manning Entertainment Centre, Taree

For those who love to sit back

PERFORMANCES JULY-DEC 2022

Fri 23 Sept Tue 27 Sept Fri 30 Sept

Fri 1 Jul Tue 19 Jul

The ELO Experience NT Live Film - Henry V

7.30pm 6pm

Sat 1 Oct

Fri 30 Jul Sat 31 Jul

Beauty & the Beast Victorian State Ballet

Fri: 7.30pm Sat: 2pm

14 to 23 Oct

Fri 5 Aug Tue 9 Aug Fri 12 Aug Sat 13 Aug

The Naked Magicians NT Live Film - Prima Facie Mirusia – Soprano Queen Bohemian Rhapsody Invincible The Helen Reddy Story

Sun 14 Aug Wed 17 Aug Thur 18 Aug

The Sapphires

Sun 21 Aug

Mark Vincent, Phantom of the Opera & all the classics

Fri 2 Sept Sat 3 Sept

Erth’s Prehistoric World

Sun 11 Sept Fri 9 Sept Sat 17 Sept

Music of the Night - Joey Fimmano The Tap Pack Twist & Shout A Salute to Rock & Roll

34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

7.30pm 6pm 7.30pm 8pm 2pm Wed: 7.30pm Thurs: 10.30am 2pm Fri: 1 & 6pm Sat: 10.30am 2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

Sat 29 Oct Sun 6 Nov Fri 11 Nov Sat 12 Nov Sun 13 Nov Wed 23 Nov Sun 11 Dec

and relax with tunes from the past, Invincible – The Helen Reddy Story hits the stage in August, followed by Mark Vincent, Queen Bohemian Rhapsody and the Sapphires! In September the popular Music of the Night returns, The Tap Pack and Twist & Shout, a salute to Rock & Roll. In September, Elvis enters the building with The Elvis Trilogy, plus Creedence Clearwater Collective. Make it to the MEC to see why our patrons keep returning and catch a glimpse of our new 159 seat studio that opens later in 2022! Parking is a breeze and we have easy access for disabled patrons. For all show details, view our digital program at theMEC.com.au Book at theMEC.com.au or call on 6592 5466.

The Comedy of Errors NT Live Film Straightline Crazy The Elvis Trilogy Creedence Clearwater Collective Taree Arts Council Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest Backbone High Octane Circus Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Just the Piano Player Edward the Emu The Sydney Comedy Festival The Australian Tenors Celtic Christmas A Taste of Ireland Bublé Christmas Rhydian Lewis

7.30pm 6pm 8pm 8pm 2pm & 8pm 7.30pm 2pm 10.30am / 1pm 8pm 2pm 7.30pm 2pm

Ph: 6592 5466 Tue-Fri 10am-1pm

33 Manning River Dr, Taree

Book: theMEC.com.au

Manning Entertainment Centre is a cultural service of MidCoast Council

SARAH BAKER

‘THE PEARL BEACH BAKERY’ opportunity to celebrate the publication and support the Blue Dust Collective gallery and the inspiring Renee Collocott who does amazing work providing up and coming local artists and creatives a platform to We love living showcase their projects. by the water. What is on the horizon The many beautiful for you and is there a FOCUS Magazine’s Sarah Baker has published beaches that second book in your her first children’s book. We speak with Sarah on surround the Mid sights? the story behind ‘The Pearl Beach Bakery’ as the North Coast where Work-wise Focus publication releases into the market. Magazine continues to we are lucky enough be my passion, liaising to call home form a with our wonderful clients baby, I found that to i Sarah. Thanks so much big part of our lives. developing strategic for speaking with FOCUS. I have a creative outlet of marketing campaigns and understand this book is very writing really encouraged interviewing inspiring locals on their insights and close to your heart. my mind during this time. I conceptualised this Thank you, it is. I developed achievements. Away from work, my almost two notion for a pictorial children’s book based on this concept for a children’s book year old also keeps me very busy and on my toes my own experience. I wrote and re-wrote several when I first became a mum. The context of the day and night! A second book? I’m not sure, drafts and collaborated extensively with Central narrative is largely autobiographical. I wanted to no plans at present but who knows, maybe one Coast watercolour artist and illustrator Jessica share mine and my husband’s journey together day! Davis and her brand Jessica May Creative on the by creating a story for our baby daughter for For people wanting to purchase a copy of storyboard and overall look and feel of the book. her to treasure and keep. The story very much ‘The Pearl Beach Bakery’ or find out more Her work is incredible and she has so beautifully reflects the coastal life we live. We love living about you, how can they best connect with brought each page to life with hand drawn by the water. The many beautiful beaches that you? illustrations in watercolour. surround the Mid North Coast where we are You can pick up your copy at the Heidi I understand you have a book launch lucky enough to call home form a big part of our Beau, Blueys Beach store or online via coming up. Tell us a little about the details. bluedustcollective.com.au Please follow along on lives. In the book, the water is almost a character I do. In collaboration with Blue Dust Collective my socials at Instagram.com/lovesar__/ or reach providing an anchor for the tale. and Plunge Cafe in Forster, we will be hosting a out to me on email at Focus Magazine sarah. How do you find the creative process of book launch on Thursday, July 21st at 4pm. All baker@focusmag.com.au I’d love to hear from writing? are welcome to attend. Signed copies will be you. I love to write. During maternity leave away available to purchase and I will be conducting a Thanks Sarah. reading for children and adults. It will be a great from work and while I was at home with a new

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Mumma Mingle J E S S D AV I D S O N

Jess Davidson is the owner of Round & Round Cafe, AND AFTER WHAT SHE KNEW MUST HAVE BEEN A VERY ISOLATING PERIOD OF COVID LOCKDOWNS FOR NEW AND EXPECTING MOTHERS she decided to arrange a monthly meet up – Mumma Mingle.

36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

about some of the speakers you have on board? I really wanted to connect the amazing services we have in town to the women who would benefit. Not only does this help small business networks and gain new clients, but it provides women with a wealth of free knowledge and advice. Over the past few months we’ve welcomed local reps from: Nurtured Beginnings Sleep Consultant, Yoga Mummas, Mid North Midwifery, Hastings Speech Pathology, PICNIC Mid North Coast (nutrition), Latch Lactation, Australian Breastfeeding Association, Women’s Wellness Boutique, infant first aid and many more. Lucy Humphries Photography also comes along each month not only to network but also to capture the I thought, why beautiful moments of not open this these beautiful Mums and up to a monthly event, their Bubs. I really love the sense of community and invite new mums, belonging that comes with mums who were putting on an event like new to town or this. Our next one will even anyone who wanted include a baby clothing to meet like-minded swap, which I think will women who had benefit a lot of mums. gone through or were Continues...

about to go through the same things.

i Jess. Can you tell us a bit about Mumma Mingle and where and when it runs? First kicking off in October 2021, after over a year of Covid restrictions and

lockdowns, our Mumma Mingle was born. I just thought how isolating it must have been

for everyone during this time – but especially new/expecting mums. It was now time to get out of the house and experience that social connection and support we’d all been craving.

What better place than the vast outdoor space on the lush lawns of Roto House. Nowadays the Mumma Mingle happens on the first Monday of each month (excluding school holidays) between 9:30am and midday. How did the idea for Mumma Mingle come about? Round & Round had become the “unofficial Mummas group” location, due to the inviting set up of rugs, ample parking, wide open space and great coffee and treats. I thought, why not open this up to a monthly event, invite new mums, mums who were new to town or anyone who wanted to meet like-minded women who had gone through or were about to go through some of the same things. Because when women unite, magic happens! As well as local mums coming along for the social side of things, you also have speakers each month. Can you tell us

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

What else can mum’s expect from Mumma Mingle if they’re thinking of coming along? It’s a really relaxed environment. Some women come solo, or in a group. Every week is different, and different reps are invited and are available to answer any questions and offer free advice. I’ve seen great friendships form over time and smaller mothers groups created that then come to visit on other days. We 38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

It’s seen them get in front of their audience and build their clientele which I’m so happy to see, because as a small business owner myself, I know how hard the last few years have been. It’s a real win-win for all parties, my cafe Every week included. is different, You have had some and different reps of the attendees hint are invited and are that they’d love to get available to answer together more often, any questions and what plans do you offer free advice. have for the future? I’ve seen great We’ve now created a friendships form weekly meetup called over time and “Pram Jam Social” for started with about smaller mothers parents/carers who 15 attendees back couldn’t make the groups created that in October, and our Mondays, or for people then come to visit last one saw over 70 who wanted to gather mums out enjoying on other days. more often. We also the sunshine. have plans to create What has some of one for the Dads! “Dadda-Day Saturdays” the feedback been like so far? coming soon! The feedback has been super positive, How will this differ from the monthly not only from the mums but also from the events? small businesses that come along.

These above events will be more of a social catch up and playdate for kids and parents and at this stage reps will only come along to the Monday monthly meet ups. I had so As a mumma-to-be many people yourself, what have congratulate me and you learnt from these genuinely share my events? excitement. I’m so It’s so great to finally lucky to have the be able to join the support of these Mumma Club, and to beautiful women and announce this to the have these amazing Mumma Mingle group last month was a real services right at my thrill. I had so many fingertips. have a place to feel people congratulate me supported, inspired and genuinely share my and appreciated. excitement. I’m so lucky Where can people find out all the info to have the support of these beautiful about upcoming events? Do they need women and have these amazing services to book? right at my fingertips. I’m so excited to get There’s no need to book. You can follow stuck in and rack their brains! How lucky our socials @roundandroundcoffee and we all are to live in a community where find the event page “Mumma Mingle” this kind of event can exist and thrive and and “Pram Jam Social” to keep up to date

with what’s happening. Having a break in the school holidays, the next Mumma Mingle will happen on Monday 1st August and we’d love to see you there. If you are a business or service that you think would benefit new/expecting mums, feel free to reach out by emailing jess@ roundandround.com.au and come along to network. Thanks Jess. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

THE GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

Inspiring exhibition and educational workshop program Courage To Care returns to The Glasshouse Port Macquarie from July 9th to August 28th, 2022. FOCUS speaks with CEO Ed St John about the importance for our community to view and learn from this free exhibition and the educational program benefits for local school students.

i Ed. Thank you for speaking with me. For those who are not aware, please give us an overview of Courage To Care. Courage to Care is a non-profit organisation that’s been operating for over 20 years in NSW. We run free programs for students, we hold exhibitions all over the state, and we also offer workshops for workplaces and community groups. And in July we’re returning to Port Macquarie, where we first held an exhibition about eight years ago! The purpose of Courage to Care is to empower people of all ages to stand up to all forms of discrimination and injustice. We use stories from the WWII Holocaust to show that everyone has a role to play in resisting wrongdoing. History has shown us that ordinary people are capable of the most extraordinary acts of courage. We all have the capacity, and the responsibility, to be Upstanders. I understand, from an educational point of view, this exhibition offers students from years 5 through to HSC level the opportunity to engage with artefacts, historical references and incredible stories told from survivors of the Holocaust. How can students’ learning be enriched by taking part in a tour? Yes, that’s right, we welcome students from

40 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Year 5 upwards to come to the exhibition, to meet a living survivor of the Holocaust, and to join a discussion about what we can learn from those terrible events that occurred in the 1930s and 40s. The sweet spot for our school programs is probably years 9-10, because that’s when they’re learning about this period in history, but anyone over Year 5 can get a lot out of it. The program has the capacity to enrich any student’s learning because we take events off the page and place them into a modern context. We don’t simply tell stories from history – we ask people to reflect on the ways in which discrimination occurs. And we ask them to think about how they should react when they encounter hatred online, or in the playground, or in their workplace. The exhibition encompasses remarkable stories of survival from now some of the oldest survivors of this 1940s horror event. How does their presence add another dimension to the exhibition and what is their key message that we can all learn from? We receive some wonderful feedback on our program wherever we go, but consistently the one thing that always elicits the most positive response is the opportunity to meet and talk to a Holocaust survivor. The survivors who are still alive today were children during the Second World War, but many of them still have vivid memories of what they went through. Their key message

is courage and resilience, certainly, but also a real faith in the better instincts of humanity. The tours are free at The Glasshouse from August 1st through to August 26th and I know you encourage everyone from the community to attend. What exactly is on offer? We encourage everyone in the Port Macquarie and Hastings community to come along and visit the exhibition. It’s free and we’re open every day except Monday. If you would like to organise a guided tour of the exhibition, or a facilitated workshop program for a group of people or to make a booking or just to find out more, you can contact us at admin@couragetocare.com.au The overriding message of the exhibition is to celebrate and come together as different ethnicities but common in our humanity, and I know there is so much scope from learning from our history. What do you and the volunteers / survivors who so generously offer their stories hope that people take away from the exhibition? Hope is a good word, isn’t it? What we hope people take away from the exhibition is a realisation that all of us have the capacity to make a difference. What unites us is far stronger than what divides us. We can all be Upstanders! Thanks Ed. Interview: Sarah Baker.

THE COLONIAL COBBLER

best seller FOR A REASON!

Daffodil is a sensible yet sophisticated take on the classic Mary-Jane heel. Available in a variety of colours, this shoe will become your go-to for office wear and special occasions.

he cushioned insole features arch support to evenly distribute your body weight across the plantar surface as well as keep you balanced. The extra long stabilising shank helps in preventing your foot from flexing in incorrect positions while the reinforced heel counter helps to reduce the risk of rolling your ankle. This versatile Mary-Jane can be paired with your favourite work pants or a mid-length evening dress, for a look of effortless style and sophistication.

Benefits: • Genuine leather upper and lining helps to prevent blistering and increases comfort. • Wide tapered toe provides extra stability. • Padded heel counter and collar help to reduce abrasions and keep the foot from slipping out of the shoe. • Raised arch support within sole unit promotes comfort. • Removable footbed suits orthotic wearers. • Comes in XW fit to incorporate larger feet.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

COVER DISH Kingfish crudo with labna, green tomato, dragonfruit and persimmon. WHALEBONE WHARF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

from

42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

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

what’s on

JULY

Prices are skyrocketing! The green salad staple is definitely the talk of the town this month. It has become one of the most expensive items in our “Little” shop.

Trivia

7pm Wednesday nights

Putt for Dough raffle 5pm Thursday nights

Ribs Night

5.30pm Thursday nights

Live music

6pm Friday nights

FREE courtesy bus Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights

Port Macquarie Golf Club 698 Ocean Drive | Port Macquarie NSW 2444 E: reception@portmacquariegolf.com.au | T: (02) 6582 0409 Restaurant opening hours: Lunch 12pm - 2pm | Tuesday - Sunday

Dinner 5.30pm - 8pm | Wednesday - Saturday. For bookings: (02) 6582 0409

44 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Kenny Little EAT IN SEASON

focus

Produce supplies have dwindled due to flooding and heavy rain in the Sunshine Coast.

Remember to eat in season. Talk to us about what is growing local and what is fresh.

Also beans, roquette and some leafy greens are a struggle to even get. But Ken has it under control, with a fresh truck daily

and supply is fresh. Remember to eat in season.

Talk to us about what is growing locally and what is fresh. It’s the perfect time to enjoy citrus and hearty vegetables. Ken

WHALEBONE

WHARF

ongratulations to Nathan and the Whalebone team on your very well deserved win at this year’s Port Macquarie Business Chamber Awards. What does this award and community recognition mean to you? It was an incredible honour taking out two of the top honours at the Port Chamber Business awards, Excellence in Business and Business of the Year. The accolades are a testament to my amazing team, they are the fabric of the business’s success, they show up and give 100% every time. The business has undergone a challenging journey the past two years and the community has come together to show phenomenal support. I am forever grateful. Receiving this award means so much so thank you, Port Macquarie. Whalebone Wharf is a premium destination for culinary excellence amongst a picturesque backdrop to relax with friends and experience fine dining at its best. Why do you think the restaurant continues to be a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike? We have proudly been a Port Macquarie dining favourite since the 1970’s and continue to evolve through the decades. We are a complete waterfront destination showcasing vast views of the beautiful Hastings river – a magic like nowhere else in the world. Our ethos is fresh, simple food obtained from local sources. We pride ourselves on the minimal distance from the producer to your plate.

46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Our fisherman ventures out from Clarence Street wharf every morning for his daily catch. Our guests love the authenticity of our food. Our head chefs are world trained and bursting with creativity and passion. This shines through not only to the visual pleasure of their creations but the sensational combination of flavours and textures; the stunning water view, the friendly service – that feeling when everything just comes together. As we head into the winter months, what delights can we expect to see on the dining menu at Whalebone Wharf? The Whalebone comes alive in the colder months. Winter is all about comfort – it’s for long lunches soaking up the beautiful warm sunshine. Devour lobster mornay, creamy hot chowder, locally caught Kingfish and fresh seasonal sides showcasing local produce. Arrive by helicopter for an epic experience and finish

the day by sinking your lips into the silky foam of an espresso martini or a decadent Toblerone dessert cocktail. We strongly advocate sharing your dishes and feasting on a myriad of different flavours. Your waitperson can recommend a wine for each course and an ideal combination of tasting delights with consideration for non-seafood eaters, vegetarians and vegans – everybody is taken care of. The evenings bring a whole new vibe. Secure an earlier booking to snap a stunning sunset pic and sip on a margarita as you marvel each stage of colour as the sun dissipates over the horizon. Into the night the wharf lighting will illuminate the water around your table as you watch the variety of marine life frolic below as you dine. Our little piece of paradise is awe inspiring in all seasons and we love sharing it with you.

P i m m's 30 ml Pimm’s 30 ml Fresh Orange Juice 2 slices Whole Orange 7 pieces Fresh Mint 2 slices Cucumber 2 Strawberries Handful Ice

n Chill

Shake in your favourite Cocktail Mixer Pour into your favourite glass Top with 60 ml Lemonade Garnish with as much or as little as you desire Enjoy!!

CHOP ‘N’ CHILL PORT MACQUARIE

46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_contributor.

Wine

TIME with ALEX C A S S EG R A I N SENIOR WINEMAKER CASSEGRAIN WINES

In years like 2021 and 2022, the threat of rain becomes the determining factor as to whether we pick our fruit or not.

ome of the key things to look at are the condition of the grapes, their stage in ripeness, soil profile, amount of expected rain, and then what can be done in the vineyard or winery to ensure the best outcome for the wine.

different fermentation process known as Carbonic Maceration and results in a very fruity and fresh aromatic profile that is nothing short of amazing when the fruit is in good condition.

Once fermentation is completed, we would then normally press out the remaining juice from the skins and prepare This whole bunch it for maturation in goes through a a barrel. However, in slightly different this instance to bolster fermentation process the wine naturally we known as Carbonic allowed it to remain Maceration and results on skins for several in a very fruity and months, known as fresh aromatic profile long skin contact. that is nothing short This, along with the of amazing when the carbonic maceration, fruit is in good has created a full condition. flavoured wine that is looking fantastic.

A specific example from this vintage, we had a parcel of Shiraz that came in earlier than we would have liked, and to compensate for the slightly leaner style we handpicked the grapes which allowed us the flexibility for adding some whole bunches directly into the ferment.

It will now mature in French oak until bottling early in 2023.

This whole bunch goes through a slightly

- Alex Cassegrain

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_contributor.

Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

R O B O T N AT I O N

t’s not easy these days, this recruitment thing. Chances are if you’ve been out and about lately you may have experienced first-hand, a distinct lack of available bodies to come to your assistance.

Hospitality, in particular, has been hit hard by the immense flux in employment due to the pandemic. Now that things are somewhat back on track and many of us are travelling and getting out and about again, it has become even more apparent that there’s a giant void that used to be filled with willing and able team members. Where did they go? No one knows, however a shift away from the uncertainty of the industry inspired by Covid lockdowns was certainly one culprit, as was the disappearance of international students to be sure. With most venues now busier than ever again, this is a massive problem, and one with no solution on the horizon any time soon. So many operators are racking their brains right now and trying to come up with a way to not only to hold onto their current trading hours, but indeed to even keep going. In this business, it’s all about team… it’s not something we can do on our own. So what can we do in terms of recruitment when there’s just nobody left to recruit?

Is it possible that solution lies once again, as it has so often within the course of the pandemic, within the harnessing of new technologies? To be more specific, I’m talking here about automation – and yes, you are correct when you start thinking about robots. Whilst down in Sydney recently we saw it for ourselves at a well-known delicious dumpling establishment. Much to the delight of our two small children, the resident cat-themed robot waiter roamed the restaurant floor with its many shelves available for loading up tasty dishes for delivery direct to tables. On closer inspection it was clear that its human colleagues, also patrolling the restaurant floor, were spending time pressing its buttons and directing it here and there, but ultimately this machine was doing a lion’s share of the ‘grunt’ work of carrying plates to and from the kitchen and it certainly had more ‘arms’ available that the standard human two. Now, this experience – whilst definitely a novelty at the time and a crowd pleaser for little ones in particular – seems like a concept that could well take flight within the industry, given the particular challenge of ‘not enough hands on deck’. Conserving the limited resource of human

energy within the average restaurant dining room for the ‘personable’ tasks of meeting and greeting, answering questions about the menu and generally providing ‘hospitality’ to guests, seems like the most important role for the real, living and breathing folks. Why not let robots do all the heavy lifting? On that note, there’s already a massive uptake of automation within food and beverage production, you may have already seen the robotic arm mixing cocktails or making lattes… Hmm you might think, it’s all very well in a fast-food establishment, or tourist trap – but I can’t imagine robots roaming my local fave restaurant any time soon! You may well be right, and many will say thankfully so! But what it comes down to right now, is the viability of food and beverage establishments to actually keep their doors open and keep trading. The labour crisis is real, and if we want to maintain the diversity of drinking and dining choice we’ve all become accustomed to, as we did during the pandemic – we need to keep thinking outside the box in terms of how we actually find our people, when there simply aren’t any to find… As long as the robot shakes a mean margarita, I’m in. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Having a

FUNCTION Port City is your perfect venue! CORPORATE | PARTIES | WEDDINGS | MEMORIALS At Port City we offer friendly and professional service to ensure your event is everything you imagined it to be.

PRIVATE ROOMS  CATERING & FUNCTION PACKAGES

For more information call 6583 1133 or email rose@portcity.com.au

50 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

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

T MACQUA POR RI R

GRE AT E

GIG GUIDE

U L Y

KEANU JAI

2 0

DAMON WINTER CHRIS ROSE FRIDAY, 1 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Cheryl & Pete 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Mat Brooker 5.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Andrew Cousins 6.00pm Port Mac Golf Club Damon Winter 6.30pm Wave Bowl Live Music 7.00pm Little Fish Café Angie Lee 7.30pm Port City BC Pam Hata 8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Rockabillies

SATURDAY, 2 11.00am Douglas Vale Vineyard Damon Winter 11.00am Sovereign Place Charlotte Schrader 12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Andrew Best 2.00pm Brew Haven Hatz Lewis 4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Hannah Lee 6.30pm Little Turkey Sam Buckley 6.30pm Wave Bowl Jaxon Pollard 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Nikki Rudge 7.30pm Port City BC Acoustic Kick 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Cranky Duck 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Leigh I’Anson

SUNDAY, 3 12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Simon Gudgeon 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty 54 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Bill Roberts

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Hannah Lee

4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Dan Hopkins

7.30pm Port City BC Jackson James

EVERY TUESDAY 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic

THURSDAY, 7 6.30pm Club North Haven Can’t Adult Today

FRIDAY, 8

8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Humpdaze 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Can’t Adult Today

SUNDAY, 10 12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Goody 2 Shoes 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty

5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Kyle Moore

2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Trev Hart

5.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Andrew Best

4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel EBD

6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Mark Bergin

THURSDAY, 14

7.30pm Port City BC Ruby Blunt

6.30pm Club North Haven Ruby Blunt

8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Bill Roberts

6.30pm Wave Bowl Open Mic

SATURDAY, 9

FRIDAY, 15

10.00am Foreshore Markets Buskers Stage

5.00pm Black Duck Brewery The Coppertones

11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter

5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Pure Acoustic

11.00am Sovereign Place Charlotte Schrader

5.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Mat Brooker

12.30pm Bonny Hills Hotel Taylor Latimore

6.00pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Besty

12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Jackson James

6.30pm Wave Bowl Geoff Jones

2.00pm Brew Haven Al McLoud

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Brody Ireland

4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Hudson Rose

8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Thomas Kennedy

6.30pm Comboyne Services Club Dean Weston

SATURDAY, 16

6.30pm Little Turkey Jaxon Pollard

11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter

6.30pm Wave Bowl Lo Monaco

11.00am Sovereign Place Charlotte Schrader

BARFLYS

JACKSON JAMES NIKKI & BEST Y 12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Brody Ireland

SATURDAY, 23

6.00pm Port Mac Golf Club Leigh I’Anson

2.00pm Brew Haven Mat Brooker

11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter

6.30pm Wave Bowl Finn Hoy

4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Pam Hata

12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Andrew Best

6.30pm Little Turkey Bill Roberts

7.30pm Port City BC Lighthouse Music

2.00pm Brew Haven Anna-Vee

6.30pm Wave Bowl Does Your Mother Know

4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Keanu Jai

7.30pm Beechwood Hotel Leigh I’Anson

6.30pm Little Turkey Tommy & Carl

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Live Music

6.30pm Wave Bowl Live Music

11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Funhouse

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Young Floyd

12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Craig Stewart

8.00pm Laurieton Hotel The Barflys

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Jake Davey

2.00pm Brew Haven Troy White

SUNDAY, 17 12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Craig Stewart 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty

8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Mum Says Rock 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Craig Stewart

SUNDAY, 24

8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Cheryl & Pete

SATURDAY, 30

4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer The Coppertones 6.30pm Comboyne Services Club Dusty Soul 6.30pm Little Turkey Chris Rose

2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Goody 2 Shoes

12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Andrew Cousins

4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Brody Ireland

1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Pure Acoustic

6.30pm Wave Bowl Pure Acoustic

2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Besty

7.30pm Hastings Hotel Craig Bennet

4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Willy Wagtail

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Finn Hoy

THURSDAY, 21 6.30pm Club North Haven Besty

FRIDAY, 22 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Ross Ruprecht 5.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Mat Brooker

THURSDAY, 28 6.30pm Club North Haven Craig Stewart

FRIDAY, 29

8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Dirty Coverz 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Electro Ungplugged

SUNDAY, 31

6.00pm Port Mac Golf Club Keanu Jai

4.00pm Fernhill Tavern Lo Monaco

6.30pm Wave Bowl Live Music

5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Brock Colley

7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Brock Colley

5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Nikki Rudge

1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki & Besty

8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Rock n Mash

5.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Craig Stewart

2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Simon Gudgeon

12.30pm Chop ‘n Chill Craig Stewart

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

LIAM MCALARY

Liam McAlary, also known as Yeah Nah, is a children’s musician who writes about his experiences growing up and also as a parent, and all the funny things that parents and kids alike can relate to.

i Liam. When did music first become a part of your life? I first started playing music when I was in year one – I attended a school that had a strong music culture. I played trumpet in the school band. I kept playing trumpet and singing through high school, but also developed an interest in guitar and songwriting. Writing, recording, and performing music was a big part of my identity growing up. What instrument do you play and what made you pick it up? I mainly play guitar, ukulele and sing. Growing up I was obsessed with singersongwriters, folk music and anything that had a strong emphasis on lyrics and melody. I was really inspired to write my own original songs. I think I also really wanted to be a famous musician, like Bob Dylan, Billy Joel or The Beatles. I really enjoyed being on stage 56 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

and playing music for people. Since I’ve started writing children’s music, I You perform children’s music, how did have written 30 songs. A lot of my inspiration you first get into that side of things? comes from my experiences growing up as a When my wife and I discovered that we kid in the early 90s. I am also lucky to be an were having a baby I uncle to some amazing really wanted to learn kids who are very a few children’s songs imaginative and funny. I mainly play that I could play for I always come away guitar, ukulele her. I learnt a few with stories or ideas and sing. Growing up Wiggles songs and for songs whenever I I was obsessed with started listening to a see them. However, singer-songwriters, lot of children’s music, since the birth of my folk music and like Teeny Tiny Stevies, daughter Imogen, I anything that had a Rhys Muldoon and have been inspired strong emphasis on Justine Clarke. I’m also to write songs about lyrics and melody. a big fan of Bluey and things my wife and Playschool. I started to I have experienced. learn more songs and Sometimes, I try to then I approached some day care centres write funny lyrics that other parents can around Port Macquarie for opportunities to identify with. There’s nothing quite like two play music for the kids. sleep deprived parents trying to get a baby Do you write your own songs? Where do to bed who doesn’t want to sleep, while you draw your inspiration from? also trying to clean up a poo explosion for

the third time that day. My coffee intake has significantly increased in the last year... Can you tell us a bit about what the process of creating a song is like for you? Songwriting is such a wonderfully unique experience. I never throw away an idea until I’ve tried numerous ways to work with it. Ideas sometimes just come to me when I’m not playing music. Recently I wrote the melody and basic ideas in my head for a song when I was giving my daughter a bath and changing her nappy. I tend to think of an idea or concept that I want to write about, jot down some themes, funny experiences, develop a melody or hook, then try to work out some chords on the guitar or piano. Some songs I have written in less than an hour, whereas others have taken weeks. I was recently talking to my friend, Michael McGlynn, who co-produced and mixed the songs on the album, about how I have enjoyed writing children’s music more than anything else I have written. I really think that the songs I write now are genuine and reflective of my experiences, which makes the songwriting process easier. I sometimes show songs to my family and say “remember those long car trips Mum, and we were really annoying? Well I wrote a song about it… Hey sis, remember when your daughter would only eat chicken nuggets? Well, I wrote a song about it.” I think it’s great to be able to reflect on my childhood, then write songs about these experiences. Also, watching kids sing and dance along to my music is amazing. It makes me really happy. What do you most enjoy about performing for kids? Playing music for kids is awesome. I love their raw honesty and their ability to not be self-conscious about their dance moves, something that I wish I still possessed. I miss being a kid, it just seems like fun all the time. I always enjoyed when musicians would perform at my school, and now I get to experience the children’s joy when I have the opportunity to play for them. I recently played a gig where a child came up to me and hugged me, then thanked me for playing. It was really special. I am privileged to bring music to children, which I think is an important part of their play and education. It allows children to express themselves,

promotes movement and imagination. I try to out “play Khe Sanh… play Wonderwall” at a ensure my daughter has access to music every gig – now I get asked to play “Baby Shark”, day, plus she is so cute when she bobs up and “The Wheels on the Bus”, and randomly on down to music – she’s currently a big fan of two occasions the “Spiderman theme tune”. the Bluey theme tune. You are currently There’s plenty of recording some of your fun and humour music, can you tell us a There’s nothing involved in getting bit about the release? quite like two up in front of an I’ve released three sleep deprived parents audience of kiddies, singles that will be trying to get a baby to how do you prepare included in my debut bed who doesn’t want for a performance? album ‘Are We There to sleep, while also Preparing for a kids Yet?’. I have received trying to clean up a show can be really some great feedback on poo explosion for the difficult sometimes. I the songs I have released third time that day. have a wide selection so far – two have been of cover songs that I added to the ABC Kids play, and I also include Listen App! People have my own songs. I find preparing for a gig to told me that their kids love the songs, and be a bit like parenting, it’s unpredictable, the parents also connect with the music if exciting, confusing, and sometimes best not they had similar experiences growing up. The to have a plan and just go with the flow. I’m album will be out at the end of August. lucky that I’m confident on my feet. I like to When and where will it be available for tell silly jokes and can always talk to the kids people to have a listen? about what music they like, what they had for The singles are available to listen now on all lunch, favourite dance moves. However, I also music streaming services, there are also links must be prepared for the kid that always yells to my music on my Facebook page https:// out the requests. I used to get people yelling www.facebook.com/YeahNahMusic GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

OLWEN

T H E

H A S T I N G S

C H O R I S T E R S

WILLIAMS

New music director Olwen Williams recently moved to the Camden Haven Region and was selected to lead The Hastings Choristers in the next chapter of their development.

i Olwen, please introduce yourself to our readers. My background is singing. Choral singing, A’capella Singing, Lead Vocalist for bands and Jazz singing. Performance highlights would have to be opening The Edinburgh Jazz Festival the same year that James Morrison made his debut there. I was also part of a six week season as part of The Edinburgh Fringe Festival performing a musical theatre piece written by Australian actor and writer Tony Harvey called “99 And A Half and Other Big Numbers” with my a’capella quintet “99 and a Half”. Being a guest vocal soloist with The Sydney Symphony Orchestra at a Family Concert on the main stage of the Concert Hall of The Sydney Opera House also deserves a mention! Concert organisation, Orchestral and Festival management also feature heavily in my career path. Being trained by the best in the business at The Sydney Symphony Orchestra, World Projects Music Festivals, The Australian Youth Orchestra and also a six year stint as Orchestra Manager, under the watchful eye of conductor, Professor John Hopkins OBE, was an honour. Where did your passion for music and performance come from? Being blessed with a musical family has given me a good grounding from a pre-school age. My Father is a Welsh tenor and my Mother was a professional ice skater who also played piano and organ. They met on stage during the heady 58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Being blessed with a musical family has given me a good grounding from a pre-school age. My Father is a Welsh tenor and my Mother was a professional ice skater who also played piano and organ.

days of “ice follies” in the U.K. where Mum was a skating performer. In those days, the skaters mouthed or mimed the words whilst the real singers, ie my Dad, were side stage providing the vocal accompaniment for the musicals of their day. What are you looking forward to the most about this new and exciting role? The members of Hastings Choristers are experienced and talented. Some can sight sing by reading music directly and others learn aurally by listening and repeating back a refrain or melody line. It is an interesting task of introducing new music or new interpretations of previously learned repertoire to choristers and leading them forward towards being performance ready, all the while ensuring that the learning exercise is both educational and enjoyable. It cannot be stated strongly enough that the methodology of singing in tune with a beautiful tone is uplifting for both the artist and also the audience. A well produced note can raise the mood and vibration of both the performer and listener. It is known as “the joy of singing”. Tell us about the upcoming shows and what the audiences can expect? It is so exciting to be able to put together a program of music you believe the audience will

be delighted by, as well as presenting songs the choir will love singing. My very first concert as Music Director showcases the versatility of The Hastings Choristers members as they have learned new songs with a totally different feel to their last concert, which was made

up of sacred music. This upcoming concert on Sunday afternoon July 24, is called “A Jazzy Afternoon” and will take place at Players Theatre 2.00pm. We have live pre-concert music in the foyer along with a cash bar from 1.15pm. We encourage concert goers to arrive early to mingle with other likeminded music lovers of our region. My very special guest musician is renowned pianist and composer, Dr Kevin Hunt, who heads The Jazz Studies Program at The Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Kevin, the choristers and I will be performing works from one of Australia’s pioneer women jazz musicians and composers, the infamous Judy Bailey. This jazzy program will wow those who love jazz music and also please those who adore choral music. The collaboration of the two is sure to delight! I look forward to welcoming Hastings Choristers supporters along with a new audience of music lovers who may come to realise that choral music can indeed be hip and groovy too!

with Hastings

Choristers

Featuring renowned jazz pianist and composer

Dr Kevin Hunt

and guest percussionist

Phil Luke with Hastings Choristers Music Director Olwen Williams

Bar open from 1.15 pm

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

You may recognise Beau and Tahney from their local businesses they run here in Port Macquarie, but did you know these two have been selected in the NSW State of Origin touch football side for the third year in a row?

ey Beau, you are no stranger to our readers or town, having lived and worked here for many years but something they may not know is your passion and amazing talent as a Touch Football player. Tell us how long have you played for and what got you into the sport? Touch Football started for me back in primary school. Maybe year 4 or 5. Back then I wanted to play as much sport as I could. I quickly grew a passion for Touch. You have played for your town, state and country and once again been selected in this year’s State of Origin side. Take us back to the first time you were selected in a rep side, has the feeling changed over the years or are you just as excited as the first time you saw your name on the list? The excitement never seems to fade around selections into such high-grade teams like State of Origin or Aussie sides. It’s such an honour to represent our community, state and country. The amount of quality players coming through the ranks in our town, state and country is phenomenal. Take us through the training and travel requirements for the NSW rep side? 60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

The series is played in Coffs Harbour on juggle work, home and your Touch Footy 19/20th August. Weekend long training camps career? are held in Sydney every 2-3 weeks as well as It’s certainly not easy. Business always comes the expectation of our own training schedule first, however I have some amazing support outside of this. crew around me and this allows me the time I When it comes to game day do you have need to dedicate to the sport. any rituals that you Port Macquarie has stick with before amazing pool of It’s such an running onto the field? talented young touch honour to I don’t consider myself players. What advice represent our as much of a rituals guy. do you have for the community, state and I enjoy getting around boys and girls who country. The amount my team and feeding off wish to follow in your everyone’s energy mostly. footy steps? of quality players What have been The depth of talent coming through the some of your most in the Hastings area is ranks in our town, memorable experiences exciting. The future looks state and country is playing in any of these in good hands for the phenomenal. sides? region. World Cup 2019 Young talent must in Malaysia was by far the most incredible continue to work hard on being the best experience I have been a part of in my sporting individual and team player they can be. career. Continue to knock on the door of rep teams We were strong enough to take home Gold and selectors. for Australia. You will find my memorabilia and Listen and ask for feedback so you can Gold Medal hanging up with the legends at continue to evolve as a player. Intersport on Gordon Street, Port Macquarie. All the best for the SOO in August in Coffs As we know, you own a business here in Harbour. We can’t wait to hear the result. Port Macquarie. How do you find time to GO NSW!!!

We are expected to keep up to a pretty high standard of fitness. So not only are we travelling and training we are also doing a heap of fitness in our own time.

As we know, you own a business here in

ey Tahney, you are no stranger to our readers or town, having lived and worked here for many years but something they may not know is your passion and amazing talent as a Touch Football player. Tell us how long have you played for and what got you into the sport? I have played the sport now since I was about 10 years old – so 25 years. I first got introduced into the sport with both my parents playing and also getting involved in touch football at school when I attended Westport Primary (a long time ago now haha). You have played for your town, state and country and once again been elected in this year’s State of Origin side. Take us back to the first time you were selected in a rep side, has the feeling changed over the years or are you just as excited as the first time you saw your name on the list? Gosh the first time getting selected into a rep side was the best feeling and I still have the same nerves and excitement as I did back when I was younger. Being able to represent

Port and you are wife and mother of two. How do you find time to juggle work, your hometown, region, state and country is a feeling I don’t think I would be able to describe with words. It is such an honour. Take us through the training and travel requirements for the NSW rep side? So the training is quite a commitment with having to travel to Sydney every few weeks for the next 2.5 months. We are expected to keep up to a pretty high standard of fitness. So not only are we travelling and training we are also doing a heap of fitness in our own time. When it comes to game day do you have any rituals that you stick with before running onto the field? I now this sounds clichéd, but I have a thing with straightening my hair every morning (even with shorter hair nowadays) and using the same brand of zinc to apply before warming up. What have been some of your most memorable experiences playing in any of these sides? My most memorable experience would have to be all the people you meet along the way. You tend to make lifelong friendships out of this. Also one I wouldn’t be able to go past is playing for Australia and winning the World Cup.

home and your Touch Footy career? It isn’t easy let me tell you. I get so much support from David and my immediate family, friends and work colleagues to be able to juggle it all. As my kids are into so much sport this year and work is flat out, I must admit this would have to be the most challenging year of juggling things around BUT I must admit it is all worth it and I have some pretty amazing people around to help along the way. Port Macquarie has amazing pool of talented young touch players. What advice do you have for the boys and girls who wish to follow in your footy steps? Our regional areas are starting to finally get the recognition our players deserve, so stay determined with the right attitude, be a sponge and take in all advice (good or bad). Commitment is also a big thing, so always do the hard work as it pays off in the long run. This year’s SOO will take place in August in Coffs Harbour. We wish you all the best and can’t wait to hear the result. GO NSW!!! Thank you so much and we cannot wait to represent you all. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

S P E C I A L

F O C U S

F E A T U R E

Care Professionals AND AGED CARE SERVICES

36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

SPECSAVERS PORT MACQUARIE

Specsavers Port Macquarie are encouraging regular hearing checks for the community

riding themselves on offering expert advice and supporting their customers on their health journeys, pre and post-hearing checks, the Specsavers Audiology Port Macquarie team work together to ensure a personalised hearing solution for all patients who come into the store. The team is professionally trained and fully qualified, carrying out hearing tests 7 days a week. Port Macquarie audiology professionals Alison Harman and Sally Hardy are encouraging locals in Port Macquarie to put their hearing health front of mind. “We encourage those in our community over 50 to get their hearing checked at least once every two years. We know

that our customers get their eyes tested regularly, so it’s incredibly convenient to also get their hearing checked at the same time and in the same place. When you monitor your hearing often, it’s easier for your audiology professional to pick up on any changes in your hearing; take the time to understand your hearing needs and lifestyle in order to find a solution that works best for you.” says Sally. “Sally and I encourage anyone from the community who thinks they may be hard of hearing to come in to our store for a free 15-minute hearing check. If further testing is required, a comprehensive, hour-long hearing assessment is then undertaken. At the moment, we see a gap of seven to

Port Macquarie audiology professionals Alison Harman and Sally Hardy

ten years between when individuals notice hearing loss to when they take action, and we want to reduce that gap so that no one is missing out on conversations or everyday sounds,” Says Alison. The Specsavers Port Macquarie team are locals, professionally trained and have a passion for hearing health. For more information or to book a hearing check, visit www.specsavers. com.au/hearing. Alternatively contact Specsavers Port Macquarie on (02) 6583 5174.

Hearing aids shouldn’t have hidden prices Should’ve gone to Specsavers

It’s anyone’s guess, including ours, just how much hearing aids cost elsewhere because many providers don’t promote their prices. We prefer to be upfront. So if you’re being asked to pay more than $3,995 for a pair of latest technology, rechargeable hearing aids, should’ve gone to Specsavers. To see our prices or book an appointment visit specsavers.com.au/hearing

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

MADE FOR COMFORT. MADE FOR FREEDOM. STRAIGHT TEETH. NO HOLDING BACK. INTEREST FREE PAY M E N T S F R O M

$39/WEEK • Faster treatment than traditional braces • A comfy ride, without the wire pokes! • Proven results with over 10 million straight smiles created world wide

• Keep your treatment going from home • Have less time off school • Eat what you want BOOK A FREE INVISALIGN CONSULT

Custom-made lifts for your home or business. Proudly Australian-owned, operated and made.

s taking the stairs in your home becoming more difficult? Have you a family member who has trouble accessing the upper levels? Perhaps you’re tired of lugging the shopping up those steps, or you just want to future-proof your home. Within our ageing population more people are opting to stay in their own homes longer, and Harwel Lifts & Hoists continues to help make this possible for so many people. Talk to us today about our Australian-made, custom-built lifts, or visit our factory in beautiful Gloucester. We have over 25 years’ experience in manufacturing lifts and hoists for homes and businesses. You may be surprised at how competitive we are. Our lifts comply with Australian Standards, are made to measure and come in a range of finishes to

143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au 64 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

suit your needs, space, décor and budget. From glossy finishes in your choice of colour, to plain or tinted glass, from swing doors to sliding doors, the choice is yours. After Sales Service: We also have a team of trained service technicians who will ensure your lift is maintained to the highest standard. Lift Modernisation: If you currently have a lift in your home which has seen better days we can provide you with a no-obligation quote to either remove and replace the lift, or upgrade only the worn components. Our workshop has a ready supply of parts and components, so the lead-time is shorter than you might expect. Please contact us for more information on 1300 134 102 or sales@harwel.com.au or visit our website www.harwellifts.com.au Proudly 100% Australian-owned and operated.

ENHANCING CARDIOLOGY SERVICES

for the Mid North Coast

Deanne you are the CEO of Mayo Private and Taree? Healthe Heart is supported by a Hospital, tell us what has excited you the team of four Interventional Cardiologists, one 14 GREAT LAKES ADVOCATE Thursday May 19, 2022 greatlakesadvocate.com.au CARDIOLOGISTS MAYO & FORSTER PRIVATE ADVERTISING most about the re opening of the Cath Lab? HOSPITAL of these livesFEATURE locally providing full time services JOIN HEALTHE HEART 14 GREAT LAKES ADVOCATE Thursday May 19, 2022 greatlakesadvocate.com.au The re opening of the Cardiac Cath Lab has with the support of the three other Cardiologists MAYO & FORSTER PRIVATE HOSPITAL ADVERTISING FEATURE CARDIAC SERVICES meant that patients will have access to a higher on a rotational basis. Mayo Private Hospital level of cardiac services locally. is connected with Hunter New England LHD health because it is clinicalOUR communities are about Through Healthe ly rewarding. It's a rapidly to benefit from the re-introgrowing field that offers duction of life-saving interHeart we provide ventional cardiac diagnostics such as under a memorandum of understanding for cutting edge technology to cardiology services Our specialists are General and health because it is clinicalOUR communities are about improve patient's health. unavailable in the area for rewarding.collaborative It's a rapidly to benefit from the re-intro"Heart imaging (angiotime. echocardiograms some (echo’s), transthoracic and lygrowing cardiac services, along with Lingard field that offers duction of life-saving interInterventional Cardiologists available grams) is very interesting Dr Pavan Thaneeru and cutting edge technology to ventional cardiology services and helps us to diagnose Dr Richard Chan, both instress echo’s (exercise drug induced for improve patient's Private Hospital Cardiologist who provide health. unavailable in the area for heart problems." terventionaland cardiologists, for new patient referrals "Heart imaging (angiosome time. Dr Richard Chan comes to have relocated to the Mid grams) is very interesting Dr Pavan Thaneeru and area from Cairns, where Northable Coast to to join do Mayo the exercise test), those physically not extended Healthe Heart services ifour required. and helps us to diagnose Dr Richard Chan, both infor ten years he has been a and Forster Private hospitals' heart problems." terventional cardiologists, Healthe Hearts team. private Interventional CarDr RichardMayo Chan comes to have relocated to the Mid They are also supported bymonitors – at diologist withwill Cairns Private stress tests, ECGs, 24/7 holter Private Hospital Cardiac Cath Lab our area from Cairns, where North Coast to join Mayo other regional cardiologists; Hospital. He completed for ten years he has been a and Forster Private hospitals' Dr Inaam Ullah, Dr Greg BelInterventional CardiolForster Private Hospital Dolphin Suites and Mayo be extended in services in the newhis year toin 2010 at Healthe Hearts team. private Interventional Carlamy, and Dr Akash Dhawan. ogy Fellowship They are also supported by diologist with Cairns Private Deanne Portelli, Regional Princess Alexandra Hospiother regional cardiologists; Hospital. He completed CEO of Forster and Mayo tal, Brisbane. Private Hospital Specialist Centre in Taree. Now include interventional cardiac procedures such Dr Inaam Ullah, Dr Greg Belhis Interventional CardiolHospitals is excited to anDr Chan enjoys helping lamy, and Dr Akash Dhawan. ogy Fellowship in 2010 at nounce that Drs Thaneeru patients with heart disease, Deanne Portelli, Regional Princess Alexandra Hospiwe can also offer Angiograms as stenting. It is an exciting move forward to and Chan bring with themin our Cardiac in particular, using his skills CEO of Forster and Mayo tal, Brisbane. skills, experience and qualiand training to treat blocked Hospitals is excited to anDr Chan enjoys helping fications that has enabled the arteries: Cath Lab. This enables access to cardiac services nounce that Drs Thaneeru patients withprovide heart disease, local advanced cardiac care. re-opening of Mayo Private "Seeing patients I have and Chan bring with them in particular, using his skills Hospital's Cath Lab re-introtreated return to normal skills, experience and qualiand training to treat blocked work and family lifeat is hugely ducing local access to manner. interlocally and in a more timely Along with advancing the Cardiac Services fications that has enabled the arteries:tests such stress echos of the heart and holter monitors and now, with the rewarding," says Dr Chan. ventional cardiac testing and Healthe Heart Cardiac Services provide re-opening of Mayo Private "Seeing patients I have services such as addition of Drs Thaneeru and Chan, any relevant procedural treatment without the need to travel far. Dr Chan reminds us that Hospital's Cath Lab re-introtreated return to normal The enhancementprocedural of cardiac services in our area Mayo Private Hospital, we are embarking on a of coronary angiograms, which as we get older, our risk work and life is hugely ducing local access to interfellowship in Christchurch," heart disease increases so "Our aim family is to grow our working as a doctor in 2011. provide images of the heart's patients to remain close to rewarding," says DrinChan. ventional cardiac testing and Healthe Heart Cardiac Services provide tests such stress echos of the holter monitors andfamily now, with "I am a New Zealand said Dr Thaneeru. services our home and whilethe un- cardiology function andheart helpand identify it's important to be mindful and the opportunity to provide quality, timely large brownfield facility build project. This will procedural services such as addition of Drs Thaneeru and Chan, any relevant procedural treatment without the needdergoing to travel care," far. Deanne said. regional Dr Chan "I worked as consultant of our heart health, have area; reminds the moreuswethattrained cardiologist. I have areas of concern. coronary angiograms, which we get older, our risk our service by oftrained in general cardiology cardiologist in secondary regular check-ups with our "This is a real-win for canasimprove "The re-opening of Mayo's in Christchurch," working a doctor in that 2011. "Our aim isis to grow ourCath provide images of the heart's patients to remaincare heart disease increases close to locally and tertiary care in hospitals and comwaiting times the soin Hamilton, GPs and, if necessary, ourfellowship area about and can really Lab as will mean what excites me most thereducing re increase our NZ bed base at the hospital by 50 have saidhealth Dr Thaneeru. "I am treatment a New Zealand function and help identify home and family while un- cardiology services in ourprocedural it's important to be mindfulpleted close to two years of in NZ and in Queensland. said Deanne. our GPs refer us for cardiac outcomes for better," can help "I worked as consultant Dr I haveour community. areas of concern. of Pavan our heart health, haveinterventional dergoing care," Deanne said. regional area; the more webe trained "I chose cardiology/heart testing and investigations. cardiology Thaneeru started providedcardiologist. locally, allowing in general cardiology cardiologist in secondary regular check-ups opening of the Cath Lab. beds, almost doubling our size. Included in this our service by trained "This is a real-win for can improve with our "The re-opening of Mayo's Cath Lab will mean that our area and can really reducing waiting times the in Hamilton, NZ and com- and tertiary care in hospitals GPs and, if necessary, have pleted close to two years of in NZ and in Queensland. our GPs refer us for cardiac procedural treatment can help health outcomes for better," said Deanne. so started important make this project will be an enhancement to mental health "I chose cardiology/heart testing and investigations. interventional to cardiology Dr Pavanit Thaneeru be provided locally, allowing our community. Why was service available once again locally? Cardiac services, rehabilitation services and our theatre services are mostly time sensitive to ensure CSSD provision. D R PAVA N T H A N E E R U optimal health outcomes. The sooner a patient Across Mayo Private Hospital and Forster Private HEALTHE Dr Thaneeru is a New Zealand trained can receive consultation, review, diagnostic Hospital we are involved in the surgical waitlist HEART cardiologist. He has trained in general CARDIAC HEALTHE procedures, the sooner they can commence reduction for the public sector . Our services SERVICE HEART cardiology in Hamilton, NZ and completed Dr Inaam Dr Richard Chan Dr Pavan Thaneeru treatment options. We will see better health extend across contracts with three local Ullah health CARDIAC close to 2 years of interventional SERVICE outcomes for our community by providing districts providing significant theatre time and New Interventional Cardiologists join Healthe Heart Cardiac Services Dr Inaam Ullah Dr Richard Chan Dr Pavan Thaneeru Welcoming our new cardiology specialists Dr Pavan Thaneeru, Dr Richard Chan, and Dr Inaam Ullah who join the Healthe Heart cardiology fellowship in Christchurch NZ. quality service locally.Cardiac team at Forster Private, Lingard Private (Newcastle) resources to Hospital support and Mayo Private (Taree).the treatment of public New Interventional Cardiologists join Healthe Heart Cardiac Our specialists areServices General and Interventional Cardiologists available for new patient referrals at the Mayo Specialist Centre, Taree Dr Thaneeru also worked as consultant Welcoming our new cardiology specialists Dr Pavan Thaneeru, Dr Richard Chan,Private and Dr Inaamhave Ullah join the Healthe Heart What other exciting plans do you patients who have waited a long time for their and Forster Dolphin Suite.whoin Cardiac team at Forster Private, Lingard Private (Newcastle) and Mayo Private Hospital (Taree). Enhancing Cardiology Services for the Mid North Coast cardiologist in New Zealand and QLD. Our specialists are General and Interventional available for Care new patient referrals at the Mayo Specialist Centre, Taree line forCardiologists the Healthe hospitals In Forster surgical procedures. Local access to Cardiac interventions and testing such as: ANGIOGRAMS

NEW INTERVENTIONAL

Looking after your heart Looking after your heart

and Forster Private Dolphin Suite.

•

Transthoracic and stress echocardiography (heart ultrasounds)

Enhancing Cardiology Services for the Mid North• Coast Holter Monitors (to track your heart rhythm over a period of time)

Local access to Cardiac interventions and testing such as: • Exercise stress testing (in a safe andANGIOGRAMS controlled environment) • Transthoracic and stress echocardiography (heart ultrasounds) • Coronary Angiograms at Mayo Private Hosptial NOW AT MAYO • Holter Monitors (to track your heart rhythm over a period of time) • Coronary interventions such as stenting at Lingard Hospital, Newcastle PRIVATE • Exercise stress testing (in a safe and controlled environment) • Coronary Angiograms at Mayo Private Hosptial • Coronary interventions such as stenting at Lingard Hospital, Newcastle

NOW AT MAYO PRIVATE

CALL: 6551 0722

E. referral.mayo@healthecare.com.au Call: 6551 0722 Call: 6551 0722 Email: referral.mayo@healthecare.com.au Visit mayoprivate.com.au/cardiology TA5788570

referral.mayo@healthecare.com.au VisitEmail: mayoprivate.com.au/cardiology Visit mayoprivate.com.au/cardiology TA5788570

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

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

*Conditions apply.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_contributor.

FITNESS

UPDATE with RACHEL LEMAN

F R O M M I S S M O T I V AT O R

Do you find yourself working out at 110% each and every day and STILL UNABLE TO SHIFT THE KILOS THAT YOU SO DESPERATELY WANT TO LOSE? Are you desperately trying to stick to a meal plan that restricts calories and yet still nothing changes?

he number of times in my working life I have heard this story is countless. However for some reason so many women still believe that over exercising and under eating is the answer to the body of their dreams. Why do we continue doing the same thing over and over only to give up because the results don’t come and we then feel like a failure?

fitness can be broken into a few key elements including, volume and type of exercise, stress (both physical and mental load), sleep, nutrition, and NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis) – everything that your body has to do in a day. All of these elements and how your body perceives them will also cause impact to your hormones, another thing to be considered when balancing your health and fitness.

You are not the failure! It’s the belief that you have been conditioned to understand that training harder and eating less will get you “results”. It’s the princesses in the Disney movies and more recently social media influencers that we are surrounded with that skew our perception of “what” we apparently need to look like, and how we should go about it.

Understanding where you currently sit within all of these areas of health is important to making positive progress towards optimal overall health.

I wonder though? Have you ever truly looked at all elements of your current reality when you are thinking about your health and fitness? I encourage our members to look at the whole picture of their life when they are approaching a new fitness regime. I help them to understand what exactly they are wanting to achieve and why they want to achieve this. Sometimes the answers you find when you dig a little deeper can be quite different to what you would think of on the surface. In very general terms, your overall health and

When you are thinking about this, remember that our bodies are wired for survival in the big bad world. Our bodies can’t tell the difference between work stress, late nights, endless to do lists or other internal stresses (such as our perception of things) and the requirement to run away from a tiger type of stress that our ancestors encountered. While we are talking about stress, did you know that exercise is actually a form of stress on the body? Whilst exercise is absolutely necessary to reach optimum health, choosing the right exercise for you is really important, and there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Too much High Intensity exercise can be seen by the body as a stressor – and this can result in the body holding onto fat stores no matter how

much more exercise or healthy food you add to your week. It is also possible that you are restricting calories too much for your training load, signalling to your body that it needs to hold onto its fat stores as it’s hard to maintain this level of output and food seems scarce right now. It had better hold on to what it has as long as possible! Once you understand where you are currently sitting within each area of health you can start to implement lifestyle changes to assist with rebalancing them, giving your body and mind the chance to thrive. At Miss Motivator we have a tool that helps us to work through this with members. It is important to understand where you are at, as unless we can get our stress hormones in check, or we are getting enough sleep for example, it simply doesn’t matter how hard you train or how well you eat your body simply won’t respond. We will be running a Women’s Wellness Workshop in July where will cover all of this and more, and provide participants with take home strategies to boost their health and fitness. If you’d like more info pop in and chat with the team at Miss Motivator Women’s Health and Fitness Centre at 2 Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie or give Rachel a call on 0438 388 552. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

RICHARD

BALL PICNIC PROJECT

Richard Ball is a Mid North Coast local who came up with the PICNIC Project concept as part of his PhD, it was so successful that it has now become a Mid North Coast Local Health District Program helping support families in feeding their infants and toddlers.

an you tell us about the beginnings of the PICNIC Project and how it all came about? What was the initial idea for this project and how did it evolve? PICNIC is a Mid North Coast Local Health District program that was created to support parents in feeding their infants and toddlers. It began with a pilot study in 2013 after feedback from local parents that they needed better access to feeding information in a timely manner. Nutrition and feeding advice was mostly coming from friends, family and the internet and it could often be confusing and inaccurate. The pilot study was the starting point for PICNIC, with focus group participants requesting practical support, as they were struggling with children’s feeding behaviour, something lots of parents find challenging. Parents also suggested specific social media pages and a website would be helpful in supporting their feeding journey. The PICNIC project has been further refined to become a program that is shaped around the needs 68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

of parents. It continues to improve and grow PICNIC has been based on feedback from designed to participants. The longsupport and term goal is to make sure encourage PICNIC continues to be information sharing engaging in, such as available for all Mid North between parents. We question and answer Coast parents. understand that these sessions and closed Can you tell us about Facebook group conversations are how the program discussions with already happening works now and what it other PICNIC parents. between parents and provides? The PICNIC team is we want to ensure the PICNIC is available for also available to be Mid North Coast parents discussions are contacted by parents who have an infant or supported with if there are issues that child from newborn to evidence-based require additional six years. When parents information. support. Basically, start the program, they parents can choose attend a two-hour online how much or little of workshop with one of the program they want to engage with. the PICNIC team of dietitians. The workshop PICNIC has been designed to support covers nutrition, feeding topics relevant to their and encourage information sharing child’s age and outlines the ongoing support between parents. We understand that available while they are in the program. these conversations are already happening PICNIC has a range of ongoing strategies between parents and we want to ensure the that parents have the option of attending or

discussions are supported with evidence-based information. Often, we find when PICNIC parents demonstrate feeding strategies they have learned in the program, and show success with their own child, other parents see this and are engaged to find out more. This parent-to-parent sharing and learning can be really powerful, rather than just reading about the topic in a flyer or online. What do you hope parents and families get out of this program? The greatest immediate benefit PICNIC parents report is their increased confidence and reduced anxiety around feeding infants and children, particularly first-time parents. Parents gain a really good understanding of the ups and down of learning to eat and children’s natural caution with new foods. When parents worry less about children’s eating, both the parent and child enjoy mealtimes much more, and there are less battles and pressuring children to eat. It’s really empowering for parents when they trust children’s fussiness as being normal and that children are all on their own journey. Just like when some children walk before others, some will accept foods more easily than others. Often, we’ll have PICNIC parents returning a couple of years later for a refresher when they have another child and are starting the feeding journey again. The whole program has been shaped by parents, including how we choose the topics and how we deliver them. Why is this sort of information and support so important and what sort of effect do you hope it will have on children as they develop and grow? This is the most important time to shape our children’s diet preferences, food patterns and eating behaviour. When we use the correct evidence-based feeding approach, not only will we have a much more enjoyable and relaxed feeding journey in the short term, but in the long-term the child will grow up to have a better quality and more varied diet, have a healthier relationship with food and eat within their natural appetite.

Children are born with the ability to regulate appetite and how we feed in the early years can either support or undermine this. We often mention ‘playing the long game’ in PICNIC. For example, weighing up the benefits of pressuring a child to eat another mouthful of veggies which could turn them off and cause them to eat less veggies later in life. There is so much information available on the internet these days around what to feed your child, but there is little information around how to feed your child. Our messages start with the introduction of solids and cover key feeding practices, such as trusting a children’s appetites, avoiding food restriction, avoiding pressure to eat, and positive role modelling. What are some of the most common questions, or areas that parents have difficulty with, when it comes to feeding their kids? Most commonly parents will have anxiety about their child not readily accepting certain foods like veggies or meat or they feel they aren’t having enough food. They’ll say, “How do I get my child to like x food?” Our

consistent reply to this is, “You can’t make them like anything!” but we can provide you with strategies for a supportive environment where children can learn to like different foods on their own terms. We also have many firsttime parents who have recently started solids who are unsure how to go about it. What has the feedback been like from families about this project so far? The response has been overwhelming! The program has been designed with, and for, parents, and with ongoing input it will continue to improve and grow. It’s so great to hear the positive experiences and learnings that participants gain from the program. How can parents and carers find out more? Do they need referrals for this project or can they contact PICNIC directly? Parents can go to our website www. picnicproject.com.au and express interest in participating directly, at the ‘Join PICNIC’ tab. They can also discuss the program with their GP, Child and Family Health Nurse or midwife. We also have social media pages: Facebook.com/PicnicMNC Instagram @picnic_mnc GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

CEREC

R E S T O R AT I O N S The technology that is changing the face of dentistry and the way patients experience dentistry.

EREC, synonymous with single visit crowns, is an abbreviation for CERamic REConstruction. At Sundial Dental CEREC restorations include, crowns, inlays, onlays, veneers, multiple tooth bridges, and are also used in dental implants. This technology, which we have been using at Sundial Dental for over 13 years, keeps our patients satisfied and smiling. What is a CEREC restoration? A CEREC restoration comes in many forms. It can cover a broken/chipped/cracked tooth, support or reinforce a weak or filled tooth, strengthen “anchor” teeth for a dental bridge, cover a dental implant or protect a tooth after a root canal procedure; or simply serve a cosmetic function! What is the difference between a CEREC Crown and a Traditional Crown? Who among us has had a traditional crown? If you have ever had a traditional crown you might well describe the crown prep as tedious, not to mention the gooey impression that probably made you want to gag, only to be finished off with a “temporary crown” placed in your mouth for you to nurse for 1-2 weeks (taking active

70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

measures not to bite on it). All this only to return to your dentist, when your permanent crown becomes ready and available, to spend yet another 30-60 minutes fitting the final product. Today, with the assistance of CAD CAM technology, a CEREC crown can be prepared, milled (while you wait; allowing you to watch the milling process) and fitted, on site, in a single visit of about an hour. CEREC crowns are fast, precise, durable and attractive; and your personal restoration is crafted from a block of German porcelain, matched to your natural tooth colour, meaning it looks natural and matches the other teeth. Furthermore, your dentist does not need to remove as much of your tooth surface and structure as would be required if you opted for a traditionally crafted crown due to the the precision of the CAD CAM design. These restorations perfectly match your natural teeth because the CAD CAM technology scans your original tooth to match your tooth’s original shape and contour making it a perfect fit and a perfect match. CEREC restorations are also metal-free which not only make them more aesthetic but also avoids further complications in the body.

This technology is backed by years of documented studies showing that these restorations are here to stay. Plus, patient feedback (remember we have been placing CEREC restorations for over 13 years) is overwhelmingly positive. We find that our patients appreciate no gooey impressions, no temporary crowns, no second visits or metal fused materials. In short, patients are in no hurry to go back to traditional methods. What’s more, a CEREC crown doesn’t cost more than a traditional crown; they actually save you time and money when you factor in a second appointment, additional time off work or time spent away from the things you enjoy. So if you, or a loved one, is considering restoring their smile or simply crowning a tooth, why not consider CEREC restoration? Call the caring team at Sundial Dental to book your consultation today or visit our website sundialdental.com.au for more information and a full list of our services, alternatively call our caring team to have a chat about our CEREC restorations, Port Macquarie 65833533, Wauchope 65852015 and Laurieton 65599276, or visit us at sundialdental.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

RDE A G A I INGEN

Doug Smith, along with his fellow residents at Ingenia Gardens Retirement Village, has been working on a number of fundraising events. He recently participated in Shave For A Cure, and his community got behind him in his efforts. And they’re not stopping there!

i Doug, can you tell us a bit about the community where you live? The community is a great community! There is always something on and everyone is very friendly and kind, and I love living here. There are great opportunities to make friendships at Ingenia Gardens Port Macquarie. I’ve made really good mates now – we’re even going on a day trip together outside of the community for an adventure and lunch somewhere different. Ingenia Gardens helps us organise things like trips to the shops and it’s great because it helps us stay independent. 72 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

What do you like about being part of a community like this? I enjoy being here because they provide wonderful lunches, you can go up and have your meals in the community room with others and you don’t have to bother about cooking at all. I have a really good group of friends here. We have a happy hour every Thursday night, about six or eight of us get together and have some drinks and snacks. It’s a great opportunity to get everyone together and have a good yarn. You have all been involved in some fundraising events, can you tell us about the one you arranged and what made you choose this particular event and

charity? I arranged the World’s Greatest Shave because my brother-in-law and nephew passed away from Leukaemia so when I saw promotions for the charity coming up I thought I’d love to raise some money for the World’s Greatest Shave. The cause is very important to me, and I wanted to help in any way I could. What was the outcome of that fundraiser? We raised $1251 in the end, and I was really grateful. I set my goal as $560 and managed to nearly triple this so I was really pleased. The community manager even emailed other Ingenia Gardens Communities

around and let them know about my fundraising event. I got a lot of donations from other Ingenia Gardens communities in NSW which was lovely. Could you tell us about some of the other recent fundraisers the Ingenia Gardens residents have been a part of? We recently had the Biggest Morning Tea; it was a good turn out with a lot of our community attending. It was a really great day. We had some lovely cakes and bickies and everyone really enjoyed themselves. There was great company and a great feeling around the room. We sold raffle tickets for a hamper to help raise money and everyone gave what they could for the cause. Why do you think the residents there are so passionate about these events? Like me, many of the other residents have friends and loved ones who have been affected by cancer. There are a few residents here who unfortunately have cancer themselves. We can all see what they’re having to go through and whatever we can do to help towards the fight against cancer we will do. Everyone here is willing to dig deep and donate whatever they can which is great. Many of the residents would be on a fixed income, it must be difficult sometimes to donate on their own, but together it seems FUNDRAISING to work quite well. EVENTS ARE A How do you go about GREAT organising what you’d OPPORTUNITY FOR all like to work towards US TO DO OUR PART next? BUT ALSO FOR US TO We might not all have COME TOGETHER a lot of money, but every AND SPEND QUALITY little bit helps. When TIME, WHICH WE helps remind us of I fundraised for the REALLY ENJOY. when important Leukaemia Foundation I charity events are told people “You don’t coming up and she have to donate a lot, just often has wonderful ideas for events we can donate what you can and it will help – even do that the whole community gets behind. if it’s just a gold coin.” There was a surprising Fundraising events are a great opportunity amount of people who ended up donating. for us to do our part but also for us to come People would put in $2, $5, $10 and it all together and spend quality time, which we added up in the end. Everyone doing a small really enjoy. part helps achieve that bigger goal. Today we came together for Men’s Health Our amazing community manager Lera

Week and had a lovely barbecue with delicious food. Although it wasn’t a fundraiser this time, we all came together and helped with the event which was really lovely. It was a great opportunity for all the men in the community to get together over steaks and sausages and have a chat about men’s health and give support to others. There is a great sense of community here at Ingenia Gardens Port Macquarie and I’m proud to be a part of it. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Welcome to Regis Port Macquarie

At Regis Port Macquarie, we understand the importance of community. With almost 30 years’ experience, we know what it takes to care for someone you love, and what a difference a bit of extra support can make.

Regis Port Macquarie 10 Sherwood Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Our welcoming Home has a strong sense of community that extends throughout our vibrant and varied lifestyle program, which gives residents the opportunity to come together for daily activities, regular social events, and special interest groups. To find out more about our community in Port Macquarie, call us on 1300 998 100 or visit regis.com.au.

regis.com.au | 1300 998 100

SCAN HERE TO DISCOVER REGIS PORT MACQUARIE

CHERYL CORBETT LIGHTHOUSE EVENING VIEW CLUB

i Cheryl. Could you explain to our readers who the Lighthouse Evening VIEW Club are and what you do? We are part of a leading women’s organisation VIEW, which stands for Voice Interests and Education of Women, with a network of close to 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia. On the Mid North Coast and hinterland we have 12 clubs (day/evening) from South West Rocks to Pacific Palms. Lighthouse Evening meets at the Port Macquarie Golf club on the second Wednesday of the month for dinner, often with an enlightening guest speaker, entertainment or for a fun ‘themed’ evening. 76 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

We offer a social outlet, lasting friendships, all while providing opportunities for members to meet for discussion and share information on matters of community, state and national interest. Our collective “Voice” is expressed through the adoption of Resolutions about significant national issues. These are debated at club and national level to bring the attention of government or public to matters of concern by women of VIEW. There are opportunities for leadership development, knowledge and skills. Regular coffee mornings and luncheons are held together with theatre parties, and fashion parades. We proudly support the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family. How long have you been a part of this club and what have some of your roles been?

Cheryl Corbett formed the Lighthouse Evening VIEW Club 21 years ago. VIEW stands for Voice Interests and Education of Women, and there are many branches of the club all around Australia. The women’s social club meets regularly and helps support the work of The Smith Family through fundraising and awareness.

I formed the club 21 years ago when I held the position of VIEW National Councillor for the Mid North Coast. I have held the position of President and Secretary and am currently on the committee as Publicity Officer. VIEW Clubs are a volunteer organisation supporting the work of The Smith Family, why did you choose to get involved with this organisation in particular? My mother Jeanie Clark (97 years young) and currently still a member (since 1964) encouraged me to join when I moved from Sydney to Port Macquarie 28 years ago. Being new to the area, it provided a perfect place to meet like-minded women, enjoy social activities and do something that would make a difference to disadvantaged Australian

to support their educational needs. We also give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter and Christmas Appeals, and Toy and Book Appeal. In what ways might disadvantaged Australian children benefit from the work you and The Smith Family do? The children and families benefit from out-of-school learning support with “Learning for Life” sponsorships, Literacy, Numeracy, Technology and Mentoring programs including work experience support. Parents are offered Financial programs. What aspects of being part of the VIEW Club do you most enjoy? Forming lifelong friendships, enjoying the social activities and, with the encouragement from members, to nominate and hold National roles within the organisation. This opportunity gave me the skills to be appointed the inaugural position of National Convention Coordinator in 2002. This voluntary role of Chairing the National Convention Steering Committee, a role I held for 9 years, was diverse, challenging and a privileged experience. With VIEW National Office, steering committee members from clubs throughout Australia implemented We offer a and facilitated the social outlet, annual National Convention. This 3 day lasting friendships, event for often close to all while providing 1,000 delegates is held opportunities for in a different city or members to meet for regional area (it is now families and children. discussion and share held bi-annually). Being a member is a information on We coordinated Event rewarding and cherished matters of Team Leaders from local experience. community, state and clubs in the area of the Could you tell us about national interest. Convention location, some of the types of encouraging and fundraisers you have mentoring members to been a part of and take a leadership role. what the outcomes of these have been? Proudly, I was presented the prestigious Our regular fundraising efforts have been inaugural VIEW Clubs of Australia George monthly raffles, “bring and buy” stalls, auction Forbes Award for Excellence in Volunteering of generously donated goods, garage sales in 2005. In 2007 I was nominated by Port and (except for the past two years due to the Macquarie MP Rob Oakeshott for the NSW pandemic) our annual “Fashion and Flair” “Woman of the Year” award for my ongoing fashion parade. Monies raised have annually voluntary work with VIEW. sponsored our two “Learning for Life” children The Smith Family is celebrating its 100

year anniversary, and VIEW has recently hit 60 years since it started. How have you celebrated these milestones and what do you hope for the future of these organisations? Due to the Pandemic our VIEW 60th Diamond Jubilee celebrations were postponed twice. We are delighted that members of the 12 clubs on the Mid North Coast are invited to celebrate VIEW Club’s 60+ Anniversary and The Smith Family’s 100 years with a “Centenary Gala Luncheon” on Saturday 30 July at the Laurieton United Services Club. This event is being hosted by our Zone Councillors Barbara Gaylard of Port Macquarie and Dianne Fiddes of Forster. VIEW National President Elizabeth Birch will be guest of honour. In Adelaide in September we will celebrate the 60+ Anniversary at the National Convention. All members are invited to attend the two Conference Days, themed social dinners, Gala Dinner and Finale Grand Celebration. I would hope that all VIEW Clubs continue to encourage and offer support to women in their community by inviting them to be members, enjoy social activities, friendship and feel proud to be a valued part of The Smith Family’s ongoing programs. The last two years have been disrupted due to the Pandemic, and many people have found the circumstances isolating. Our club will continue to support our members in all of the challenging times. Whilst we had a few dinner meetings postponed and activities curtailed, we stayed connected and, when possible, we even met with our coffee flask in local parks! I’m confident that for many more years to come The Smith Family will continue with its learning support programs and help more children across Australia in more communities to get the best out of their education. For anyone wanting to get involved, who can join the Lighthouse Evening VIEW Club and how do they get in touch? We warmly invite new members. Please contact: - President Margaret Donnelly 0409 367 761 - or myself Cheryl Corbett 0412 457 309 - email lighthouseeveningview@gmail.com - to find out more about VIEW: view.org.au - or The Smith Family thesmithfamily.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

86 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Eliza Brearley is a 23-year-old actor, model, singer, swimmer and now, YouTuber, as host of Australia’s first autism therapy YouTube channel. Born with a developmental disability, Eliza has spent most of her life having to learn everything which most of us do naturally.

ith the help of a team of supporters, Eliza is now living her dream of being an actor. Eliza hasn’t let her challenges stop her, instead she has used her strengths to find ways around it and has finally found her voice. On Thursday 21st July, Sawtell RSL Club and R&R Care Coffs Harbour proudly bring you “I Can Do It – Strategies for Living on the Spectrum”. Hosted by Dougal Austin, an ‘aspy’ himself and successful entrepreneur, and Phil Splitter, professional Emcee, speaker, entertainer and educator. Dougal and Phil will be joined by Eliza and a panel of guests including her mum, Joanne, founder of Jigsaw Autism Services. This dynamic and interactive presentation aims to not only answer your questions and concerns, but also give you some simple, straightforward strategies you can implement immediately. “More and more we are finding there are families who are facing uncertainty each and every day with regards to their children that may be showing signs of being on the Autism Spectrum.” Says Dougal, “Life is hard enough in this modern world, but when faced with the extra challenge of dealing with a loved one on the spectrum, it can seem overwhelming – but it needn’t be!”

More and more we are finding there are families who are facing uncertainty each and every day with regards to their children that may be showing signs of being on the Autism Spectrum. “I Can Do It has such an important message to share,” says Kate Drum, Marketing Manager of Sawtell RSL Club, “whether you are a young adult living with ASD, contemplating what life looks like ahead, a parent, friend or carer, this presentation is a MUST! “The inspiring stories that our panelists will share will give hope and clarity that living a full, exciting and successful life with ASD is possible. We feel very privileged to be able to offer this presentation to the Coffs Coast.” R&R Care was established in 1987 and at the core of their values is to make a real difference to every participant and family, they have the opportunity to support. “R&R Care feel honoured in sponsoring an event that is so close to our hearts, helping

people with a disability to live a full and successful life within their community. This event provides an opportunity for people living on the spectrum and their families to see what can be achieved regardless of their disability. That people living on the spectrum have a lot to offer and we should embrace all differences with pride and inclusiveness,” said Daniela Shaw, CEO of R&R Care. Dougal assures us that after seeing I Can Do It, you will leave confident you can overcome any challenges you have and, importantly, know that you’re not alone. I can, you can, we can do it – if we work together and see that life ‘on the spectrum’ doesn’t have to be a struggle, and in fact it can be a rainbow of love and hope! If you have a loved one on the spectrum, or know someone who does, this event just might be the life changer you’re looking for. Tickets for the event are just $10 with proceeds raised going to support the wonderful work of R&R Care. Visit sawtellrsl.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Learning Live is a Registered Training Organisation that has been

DELIVERING A QUALITY APPROACH TO VOCATIONAL EDUCATION ACROSS THE MID NORTH COAST F O R T H E PA S T 8 Y E A R S

From humble beginnings, we have grown to include over 60 units of competency on scope and offer the following courses regularly in Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Taree: White Card High Risk Work Training Traffic Control Load Shifting Licence To Operate A Forklift Truck TLILIC0003 EWP Under 11m – Yellowcard Provide First Aid HLTAID011 Hospitality Training

5565 9000

live.edu.au

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 RTO Code 41067

Our focus has always been on delivering quality training in a live learning environment, where experienced trainers teach and demonstrate their skills. Student success is a passion of ours which is why our completion rates stand out from the rest – everyone gets the support they need to succeed. BE A LIFELONG LEARNER AND SEE WHERE OUR COURSES CAN TAKE YOU!

Come and explore the Newman College

difference

ENROLING NOW FOR YEAR 11, 2023 REGISTER NOW

Newman College

OPEN NIGHT TUES 26TH JULY, 6.00PM

Considering your options for Year 11 in 2023? The Newman Senior Technical College OPEN NIGHT is your chance to experience Newman up close. Register now at newman.nsw.edu.au

#ADIFFERENTCLASSfocus

96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

A 3 DAY YOUTH SUMMIT CHALLENGING TODAY’S GENERATION TO BECOME THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW HELD AT GLASSHOUSE AND RYDGES PORT MACQUARIE

ALLISON LANGDON JOURNALIST & CO-HOST OF TODAY

DAN FLYNN

CO-FOUNDER OF THANKYOU. & SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR

DR JORDAN NGUYEN

ANDREW SAUNDERS

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEER, AUTHOR AND FUTURIST

COMEDIAN, MEDIA PERSONALITY, THE BLOCK

NIXI KILLICK

TIM SILVERWOOD

IMAGINEEER. ART. TECH. FASHION.

CEO OCEAN IMPACT

OVER 25 SPEAKERS JOSH MOSES

WRITER, TRAVELLER & POET

90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

TIM + STEPH MADDREN

CREATIVE DIRECTORS GOTYA BACK PRODUCTIONS

TOM FLEMING HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR

DR KARL KRUSZELNICKI AM

NADINE CHAMPION

MICHAEL CROSSLAND

ASS. PROF. MISTY JENKINS

MEDIA PERSONALITY & LOVED SCIENCE COMMUNICATOR

ENTREPRENEUR, SPORTSMAN & CANCER SURVIVOR

MARTIAL ARTS SENSEI & AUTHOR

RESEARCH IMMUNOLOGIST

ANDREW MORELLO

THE APPRENTICE WINNER, ENTOURAGE & SUMMIT MC

NAT HEATH

KONA IRONMAN, INDIGENOUS MARATHON PROJECT

INSPIRING SPEAKERS TO GUIDE AND MENTOR YOU TO SUCCESS! IF YOU ARE AGED 15–25...BE THERE. WE DARE YOU! SIGH LUXTON

GRAPHIC & GRAFFITI ARTIST

SID MATHUR

HIP HOP ARTIST, MC & PERFORMANCE ARTIST

MATT PURCELL

ENTREPRENEUR, MEDIA CREATIVE & INFLUENCER

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Transport for NSW

Create a better bus network for Port Macquarie Have your say Transport for NSW is delivering the 16 Regional Cities Services Improvement program, creating better bus networks and timetables that meet community needs. Improvements may include: •

Changes to existing journeys

•

New routes or services

•

Extended operating hours across the day or week

•

Better connections to get people where they need to go, including shopping, work, education, medical facilities and other modes of transport.

This is your chance to have your say on how we can plan for public transport improvements in and around where you live. Let us hear your views!

Submit your feedback by Friday 29 July 2022 •

online at yoursay.transport.nsw.gov.au/ betterbusnetworkportmacquarie

•

by calling 1800 717 528

•

by emailing regionalcitiesprogram@transport.nsw.gov.au

•

by post to 16 Regional Cities - Port Macquarie PO Box K659, Haymarket NSW 1240

Project Infoline 1800 717 528

65 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

e regionalcitiesprogram@transport.nsw.gov.au w transport.nsw.gov.au/16citiesportmacquarie

Craig Williams Photography

focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

We are excited to introduce you to our new name… BUSINESS Port Macquarie.

ere for you servicing our business community. Looking to lift the profile of business in the Port Macquarie area. We are upgrading our website in line with our new name to make it more user friendly and easier to find our member businesses, what they do and what they offer. Visit us at www. businessportmacquarie.com.au I have been fortunate enough to attend a couple of seminars this year that have showcased both international and Australian speakers. It is great to learn some new techniques and business ideas with interesting and informative content. I have also had the privilege to attend a couple of local events, with speakers that are local to the Hastings yet also speak interstate and on the world stage. I have to say that both Stacey Morgan (Business Coach/Entrepreneur) and Jane Hillsdon (Award winning Marketing Guru) are two of the most engaging, informative, easy to understand with great knowledge takeaway speakers, that I have come across. I don’t know if it has to do with the “tall poppy syndrome” or because we see them around town and know them, that we don’t give enough credit to the incredible talent that we have locally. Yet we are prepared to pay a fortune and travel to see other speakers. For this reason we at Business Port Macquarie will

be making sure that we showcase more local talent and the pearls of wisdom they possess, so stay tuned for upcoming events.

There are also exciting expansions and developments taking place at Sovereign Place so we have invited the team from Sovereign Hills to present at our July Network event on the 26th July to reveal what is happening moving forward. So join us for an informative evening.

Speaking of events, I would like to extend a big congratulations to Hastings Council on the fabulous Artwalk event. I love how this is By now you are all well combined to also show aware of the wage off local businesses. Also Speaking of increases and also 0.5% huge congratulations events, I would superannuation increase to Gordo Gamsby and like to extend a big that takes place from this Lucy Gamsby Frost for congratulations to month and the increased bringing Tortuga to Hastings Council on the pressure this adds to small town. Hopefully this business that is still trying will be an annual event fabulous Artwalk event. to get back on its feet for the Hastings. We I love how this is after flood, fire and Covid. also look forward to the combined to also show This equates to a $2.5 long awaited return of off local businesses. billion increase to business Luminosity. This is an in NSW. Many people are incredible 3 day event unaware that 98% of business in NSW is small that helps shape our young people for the business. We at Business Port Macquarie are future. I urge all businesses to get behind this here to assist in whatever way we can to direct incredible informative event for our leaders of you to services that can assist. Please call either the future. You can get involved by sponsoring Katherine Harris, our Executive Officer, Mon-Fri a student to attend. Please call our office for 9am-3pm on 0422 562 300 or you can call me more information. on 0414 772 771. I was fortunate to be invited to the celebration of the 1000th property sale in Sovereign Hills. Congratulations to the Lewis Land group on the fantastic vision you had and the community you have created. This sale signals the half way point with another 1000 blocks to go.

Our quote for the month “Success is not final and failure is not fatal. It’s the courage to continue that counts.” (Winston Churchill) Have a great month. Alex GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

+ Aged Care

+ Hospitality & T

+ Information Te (Networking)

+ Business, Lead & Managemen Live an adventurous life or shape young lives. Enrol now. At TAFE NSW our goal is to help change lives. Whether you want to care for those who need support, educate the next generation or help others live their best life, TAFE NSW has a course to help you realise your goals. Taught by industry-expert teachers, our nationally recognised courses will give you the hands-on skills you need to launch a successful career. Ready to change your life?

+ Aboriginal Languages

Enrol now for Semester 2 with TAFE NSW, a leading provider of lifelong learning.

+ Business, Leadership & Management

+ Early Childhood Education + Aged Care + Hospitality & Tourism + Information Technology (Networking)

tafensw.edu.au 131 601

MACQUARIE 89 RTOGREATER 90003 |PORT CRICOS 00591E |focus HEP PRV12049

focus_contributor.

HBWN

COLUMN with SOPHIE KNIGHT

arlier this year Hastings Business Womens Network (HBWN) held their Annual General Meeting to celebrate the achievements of the network over the last 12 months. We also celebrated our incoming committee members for 2022 and said a huge thank you to a number of long-term outgoing committee members. We’re pleased to introduce you to our committee for 2022:

Meet the New HBWN Committee

President, Kelly King

might be too ‘formal’ and business orientated for me. After reading about all the fun events in 2021 that I missed out on I finally made the decision to join. I realised that it really is a group of women from all walks of life, in different stages of their careers and personal lives, who value each other and are committed to the Hastings community. I regret not joining sooner, to be honest, and would encourage any women who are looking to meet more people and be a part of something to come along to an event.

Vice President, Jenny Edmunds

What have you learnt about HBWN?

Treasurer, Sharon Ekendahl

Probably like many people I thought that HBWN was all business and mainly for local business owners. It’s not! The ‘B’ in HBWN stands more for ‘busy’. Busy women who love getting involved in local initiatives and connecting with like-minded women.

Secretary, Charmain Woods Events Coordinator, Laura Fava Professional Development Coordinator, Julie O’Shea Membership Coordinator, Vanessa Lawrence Communications Coordinator, Sophie Knight Sponsorship Coordinator, Gerry Buckland Welcoming our newest committee members Sharon Ekendahl, Charmain Woods, Laura Fava and Sophie Knight. We caught up with Communications Coordinator, Sophie Knight, to see how the new role is going. What made you join HBWN? Being new to the area and working from home I was feeling quite isolated and looking for ways to make friends. I had heard about HBWN when I first arrived but didn’t join because I thought it

The ethos of the network is ‘connecting women’ and there is a focus on encouraging, educating, and empowering women both in their professional and personal lives. As a not-for-profit organisation the funds we raise through membership, sponsorship, and event attendance go back to the community through various organisations and charities we support. It’s a great feeling to be able to help others. What are you looking forward to most in the role as Communications Coordinator? There’s so much that I am excited about. Probably the best part is the committee members. These ladies really are remarkable

women in their own rights with such interesting and diverse lives. I haven’t been part of something like this before and was surprised to see how much effort everyone puts in to trying to offer the best network possible for the community. As volunteers, it’s not always easy to carve out time between work, family, and personal commitments to work on HBWN activities. Hats off to these ladies who make everything come together so that others can enjoy it. I’m looking forward to developing myself through their wisdom and sharing a lot of laughs. What’s coming up? We’ve always held monthly Poppy Pop In events for newcomers to learn what HBWN is all about but now we’re trying to open that up to be more of a casual catchup for anyone to join. Either over coffee or a glass of wine, we really want people to know that they can come along and know that they will find some friendly faces and good conversations. Laura Fava has been working so hard on organising the next round of events for the second half of the year from July to December. Kicking off the new season with a night under the stars at Mansfield Estate on July 28, the event is a chance to escape from the everyday routine and enjoy great food, drink, entertainment, and speed networking. You don’t have to be a business owner, or even have a job, to attend. Just bring your positive personality for a fun night out. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

LEGAL

Light

with NICHOLAS LAWTON FROM PRIEST LEGAL

WHO WINS? DOES ANYONE?

Christian Porter or the general public? Ben Roberts-Smith or the media? Johnny Depp or Amber Heard? John Barilaro or Google?

ou don’t have to be famous to feel that you have been defamed but the famous and the not-so-famous all face the same dilemma. Do you fight to clear your name when doing so might attract more attention than the original defamatory publication? Alternatively, do you let a negative comment or allegation pass in the hope that today’s news will be quickly forgotten? The defences available to a defamation claim – particularly a “truth”, “fair comment” or “public interest” defence – ensure that every tiny detail of the publication will be pored over in open court. Add to that the expense of an extended court hearing, and you are left wondering if the “cure” of suing for defamation isn’t worse than the disease. The law of defamation developed originally to allow a legal means for gentlemen to restore their “slighted honour”. This was preferable to the existing practice of duelling. Watching the fallout from recent high profile defamation cases, and the reputational damage suffered by some plaintiffs, pistols at 10 paces may be a more attractive alternative.

Despite the drawbacks, sometimes you feel you don’t have a choice because the attack is unfair or untrue and you have suffered loss as a result. In the Depp case, the legal outcome was reported as being irrelevant to him – what he sought was a platform to publicly defend himself. Depp was ultimately successful and awarded damages of $10 million; Heard was also successful in her cross claim and awarded damages of $2 million. They both “won”, and Depp got his platform, but did either of them emerge with their reputation enhanced? Not all cases involve Hollywood actors or politicians. Minor slights or attacks can constitute defamation, often with surprisingly large awards of damages. In a 2019 case, a minor dispute arose about an unlocked mailbox between a resident of an apartment complex and the chairperson of the Strata Committee. The resident responded to repeated emails from the chairperson in a mocking tone, and described his repeated contact as “offensive, harassing and menacing”. She copied her email to the other 16 owners. The chairperson sued for defamation claiming that the email depicted him as a “small minded busy body”. He was

successful and was awarded $120,000.00 in damages. Political commentary seems to be emerging as a hotspot for defamation claims. Peter Dutton, John Barilaro and Christian Porter are recent examples where politicians have responded to negative commentary with defamation proceedings, with mixed success. Barilaro obtained an award of damages of $700,000.00 against Google (YouTube) as a result of his action relating to videos posted by Jordan Shanks. For better or worse, the days of anonymously slagging a pollie online seem to be numbered. Reforms in 2021 go some way to restoring a balance. They introduced a new requirement that a plaintiff must suffer serious harm, and also introduces a defence for matters of public interest. Those changes are intended to maintain a balance between defamation and free speech, and allow for publication of reasonable comment about public figures. However, the perils of making negative public statements about others, particularly on social media, serve as a warning for all the keyboard warriors out there – think twice before you post! Ultimately, it may be you that is the loser. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

your vourite mmunity oup!

How to give to your favourite en a Regional Australia Bank transaction and ask community to be a part of our Community ip Program! group!

program assists your favourite community group by a bonus payment (equivalent to 0.75% of your average gs balance)!

ow to beSimply part ofopen theaCommunity Partnership Program Regional Australia Bank transaction 1 accountcommunity and ask to begroup, a part oftalk our to Community your favourite Regional Partnership Program! k and join the revolution in community banking. This unique program assists your favourite community group by giving them a bonus payment (equivalent to 0.75% of your average annual savings balance)!

7 nalaustraliabank.com.au

To find out how to be part of the Community Partnership Program and support your favourite community group, talk to Regional Australia Bank and join the revolution in community banking.

132 067 regionalaustraliabank.com.au

ccount means a Youth, eFree or Community Partnership Account. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. See Fees ustraliabank.com.au for full details. Please refer to the Target Market Determination and Account and Access Facility Co Transaction account means a Youth, eFree or Community Partnership Account. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. See Fees & Charges located at ustraliabank.com.au, when considering if these areMarket rightDetermination for you. This information current as at 21/06/2022 a www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au for full details. Pleaseproducts refer to the Target and Account and Accessis Facility Conditions of Use located at www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au, when 650 considering if AFSL these products are right for you. Credit This information is current as at 21/06/2022 and is subject to change gional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 360 and Australian Licence 241167. at anytime. Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 241167. 1

104 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

MINDS with EMMA WALKER AND SIMON BANK

Over the last few years, we’ve learned the hard way that the business landscape moves quickly - and can change overnight. THIS MEANS YOUR APPROACH TO MARKETING NEEDS TO CHANGE WITH IT - AND NEEDS TO BE ADAPTABLE.

nderstandably, this can be overwhelming! But it doesn’t need to be. There are some simple things you can focus on that can positively impact your brand footprint, whether it’s for your service, physical or online store.

Whether you are starting a new business, or you’re a veteran in your industry, the start of the new financial year is an excellent time to review your business goals. Jane Hillsdon, director of Dragonfly Marketing, at a recent Business Port Macquarie breakfast, shared that customers typically engage with a business after seeing a brand 6 to 30 times across different media. Jane shared that it is vital to create a marketing game plan, which includes defining your objectives and target audience, conducting market research, and deciding your brand positioning and marketing mix. The 4 P’s of your marketing mix are product, place, price and promotion. Your marketing ecosystem sets out the offline and online tactics that you will use to create brand awareness and engage with your target audience. Defining your target audience means working out their specific needs, what influences them and the types of media they consume. A huge challenge that many businesses face when planning out their marketing is deciding what to say without sounding repetitive or cliché, so this is where it’s helpful to hone in and create a profile of the key groups in your target audience - give them a name and work

out what makes them tick.

To increase the vital number of “touchpoints” before a customer engages with your brand, it’s worth including web and social media marketing in your arsenal, to reinforce and extend the reach of your brand.

Your content doesn’t have to appeal to every single person out there. Start by working out who you are talking to. Who are your favourite clients? How old are they? What are they like? What are they struggling with at the moment? It’s also worth utilising different types of What do they love content. For example, doing? Are they females Annie loves a good video. aged between 35-45 Your content Most people do. In fact, who spend their spare doesn’t have to over half the world’s time having treasured appeal to every single population engages coffees after yoga or person out there. Start with a video instead boxing, love their dogs, by working out who of a still image when it scroll through socials you are talking to. comes to social media. in the school pick-up Do you have a good queue and are interested set of beautiful images in health, nutrition and from a professional homewares? Give your target market a name. photographer that your audience loves? Use Let’s call ours Annie! them on your homepage banner, so that Does Annie like it when she’s at a party and when people land on your website, they are someone yells at her across the room to captivated. Better still, use these images across introduce themselves? Probably not. Introduce your print and social media as well! yourself and let her get to know you! Share Jane insists that businesses take time to content about topics she can relate to. If measure and optimise their marketing, by you lead in with your sales pitch straight setting goals and expectations and keeping away, Annie will most likely start chatting to track of them every month. This gives you the someone else. opportunity to reflect on what’s working well A local business looking to create brand for your business and refine your approach as awareness in the local community should required. include print media, such as Focus, in their The key to a successful marketing strategy is marketing strategy as a platform for telling to show up consistently across a mix of media, their story and creating alignment with new building a strong brand foundation that keeps and existing customers. This is an opportunity your business top of mind. to set your brand apart from your competitors. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

FrFri didaayy

A ug

uusst

Mayor’s

t55,

Sporting Fund

Trivia Night

VENUE: Wauchope-Bonny Hills Surf Lifesaving Club TIME: Doors and Bar open from 6pm. Event Starts at 7pm and concludes at 10pm. THEME/ATTIRE: Commonwealth Games Sport or National Team Colours (Green & Gold). DRINKS: Licensed Premises. Drinks Available to purchase at the Bar. NO BYO. FOOD: Bring a Platter or Nibblies or Order a Pizza from the Menu at Bonny’s Beach Cafe COST: $120 for a Table of 8.

Tickets Via the Glasshouse Box Office or phone 6581 8888. Rego closes on Wednesday Aug 3 or until Sold Out. 106 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

,22020

222

10% OFF OUR BEST PRICE FOR A 2 NIGHT OR MORE STAY.

Call direct 0477 779 343, or book on our website www.charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au and use promo code “focus”

Cnr Bay Drive and Resort Drive Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Australia p

0477 779 343

bookings@charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au

www.charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au

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.

Unsuspecting visitors to Urban Grain Bakery would be forgiven for thinking they had stepped inside a funky Melbourne café and bakehouse. UGB regulars are greeted by a beautiful array of decadent pastries, artisan breads, cakes, handmade chocolates, and premium coffee. Across the last five and a half years friends and business partners Tim Dunn and Catherine Jugmans have established a unique niche in a highly competitive market, building a loyal following for their divine delicacies, wholegrain milled breads and of course those signature croissants. Their vision continues to grow and evolve, capturing the eye and tastebuds of local restaurants and foodies in our coastal community. 94 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

URBAN GRAIN BAKERY

TIM DUNN AND CATHERINE JUGMANS

hat inspired you how have you stayed true to that vision? both to bring Consistently maintaining our quality has Urban Grain Bakery helped us to stay true and has kept our loyal (UGB) to life in Port customers returning. We always try to source Macquarie? locally where possible, which was an uphill We have both been battle through Covid, however we still maintain immersed in gourmet European style bakeries a strong relationship with providores like Kenny and were both living in Littles, as well as our big cities and wanting a foundation supplier, change of scenery. Port flour mill Wholegrain Tim has been Macquarie seemed to Milling. Tim has been using Wholegrain be that perfect place to using Wholegrain Milling Milling for the last 20 create UGB as there was for the last 20 years and years and has a need to bring a unique has developed a strong developed a strong style and quality that relationship with them, relationship with them, Sydney and Melbourne one that has a been one that has a been are used to, to the Mid crucial to the quality of crucial to the quality of North Coast. our products. our products. Your vision to establish What the biggest risk a prestige bakery you have taken in the was clear from the business? outset and you have stayed true to your Definitely opening up! We had no idea if commitment to use whole ground, organic the town would trust us and accept us. Loyalty milled flour. Why was this so important and is so big in this region that we didn’t know if

most integral part for us. Using wheat that is grown and produced in a sustainable manner is at the heart of our quality promise and we tried to emulate that with all our ingredients. How integral is your business partnership and the team to delivering on the UGB mission? It’s really important. Tim and I trust each other to look after our respective roles so thankfully we don’t ever have to question that. Our bakers and pastry chefs are also very passionate about what they do and as a result try to produce to the best of their ability. Our front of house team know our products well and help to share that information with our customers day to day. Tim, how instrumental were mentors in your journey – who do you look to for inspiration? I have always looked to Dan Lepard from Baker & Spice – he is incredible baker and food

Using wheat that is grown and produced in a sustainable manner is at the heart of our quality promise and we try to emulate that with all our ingredients.

anyone would turn up on the first day we opened! However, they have and we are so thankful! We opened two weeks prior to Christmas, and it was an absolutely crazy and nerve-wracking time where we were both investing upwards of 80-100 hours per week to establish and grow the business. Some of our earliest customers Bob, Jan, Ann, Brett, Tony and Bruce are among many amazing locals that adopted us in the early days and remain loyal customers and for that we are truly grateful. Additionally, to grow from just Tim and myself (huge risk!) to a team of 14 has been critical to our ongoing quality and customer base. What has been the most surprising element of the business journey for you Catherine? Surprising that we are still here after five and a half years! Which comes down to the support that we have received from the locals. Also, that people really appreciate our produce.

Occasionally I receive phone calls to say that they’ve just had the best almond croissant or best sourdough and they are the best phone calls to receive!! Another surprising and pleasing element is the organic growth of our wholesale market – we really love supplying premium quality pieces to the restaurants and cafes across the region and this has resulted in the creation of some great partnerships with award winning chefs, which started off with supplying Stef Hostettler and Greg Cacae. What has been your biggest challenge in your business journey? Trying to step away from the business and letting go a bit! Can you share why sustainability and local produce are key ingredients in the UGB experience – how do you make a difference? I think the ingredients really do speak for themselves – these two key factors are what really sets us apart from other businesses. The high quality, stone milled wholegrain flour is the

writer and renowned for his artisan bread and pastry work. Nancy Silverton of La Brea Bakery is also a huge inspiration and is famous for popularising sourdough across the world. They are two incredible operators with successful styles, brands and businesses. We look to them to keep the high quality and European style you experience when you visit us. Catherine, what is the most valuable lesson you have learned from in your business journey? A mentor once told me when I was studying to be a pastry chef, that if I ever wanted to have my own bakery or patisserie that I needed to have some knowledge of baking, as what would I do if they didn’t show up for work. That was a small but vital piece information that has proven to be key for me to ensure I am across both front and back of house. Slightly less pivotal but burnt into my mind is the memory of being yelled at by a previous employer for not scraping a pot completely clean when I was working as a chef. As a result, I always scrape everything down very cleanly sometimes to a fault – ha-ha! Sometimes it’s the simple things that stay with you! Thanks Tim & Catherine – looking forward to seeing what is on the horizon for UGB! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

Abode GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

PROPERTY GUIDE

SOVEREIGN

ADENBROOK HOMES

HILLS D I SPL AY VI LL AGE

SOVEREIGN

HILLS

This month’s Style Series embraces dark and moody interiors

DI SP L AY VI L L A G E

ADENBROOK HOMES' MANHATTAN LUXE LIVING ROOM IS FULL OF DARK ELEGANCE

Bright white on white interiors have started to fade and now it's time to embrace the dark side.

his season’s biggest trend alert sees inkier hues playing the main roll in interior styling, giving spaces weight, depth, and a surprisingly calming atmosphere. The Sovereign Hills Display Village showcases countless ways to create dark and moody spaces that are more gorgeous than gloomy. Manhattan luxe – full of dark elegance Stylish opulence is the theme in Adenbrook Homes’ Penn E design. The beautiful balance and refined decadence of soft shadowy velvet coupled with crisp white marble and metallic brass finishes has created a truly eye-catching living room. When creating atmospheric rooms consider your style and choose your 98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

furniture to compliment your aesthetic. Balance lightly coloured walls with saturated shades in your furniture and accent pieces.

McDONALD JONES HOMES SHOWCASE THE RIGHT BALANCE FOR CHIC SOPHISTICATION

Dark colours don’t always mean gloomy. Chic minimalism – modern sophistication Displaying minimalist living, McDonald Jones Homes’ Miami is a standout when it comes to dramatic styling. Dark colours don’t always mean gloomy shades on walls, they can be refined, chic and very relaxing. The Miami’s atmospheric media room really makes a statement. The bold feature wall is balanced with simple black and

white furnishings, and accessories, so the presence of minimal sophistication is still felt. Contemporary and cosy – a welcoming embrace If you're looking to add depth and warmth to soften a darker scheme, consider

ROB TATE HOMES PROVE MOODY COLOURS ARE PERFECT FOR BEDROOMS

adding some warmer woody tones as featured throughout Sorensen and Caldon's Manhattan design. Combine rich honey hued hardwood flooring that flows from room to room with black and charcoal, and you'll create a cosy nest with charm, all without giving up your lighter-coloured walls. A striking balance If you’re leaning toward the dark side for better slumber but you aren't ready to dive headfirst into this trend, try painting a large accent wall a dark green or navy giving you the moody look without a huge makeover. Rob Tate Homes has found the perfect balance of light and dark play by colour blocking a feature wall with forest green panelling and offsetting it against the contrast of clean white linen and curtains. Top tips for creating a dark and moody ambience Colour: Nearly all colours are on the

Style Series...

SORENSEN & CALDON BUILDERS' RICH STYLING FEELS COSY AND EMBRACING

Scan here and stay inspired! table – blues, greens, browns and greys. Contrast with an accent colour to spotlight details, some richer warm shades of rust and ochre will help create more moody drama. Balance: The trick is to balance saturated tones with crisp lighter hues to emphasise the room’s depth and prevent the space from becoming too heavy, leaving it feeling gloomy. Pattern: If opting for a bold print wallpaper, keep the furnishing plain with a limited palette. Finishes: Keep finishes opulent and balance different textures – marble and

stone, timber, leather, velvet, and faux fur. Lighting: Choose light shades that cast a warm light and layer with wall sconces and table lamps – keeping the light low and luxurious. Consider dimmer switches as this will enhance the moody, atmospheric feel. Embrace the dark side and discover more dark and moody design inspiration from the Sovereign Hills Display Village by scanning the Style Series QR code. York Street, Sovereign Hills sovereignhills.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

114 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

N E W FA C E S AT

ROB TATE F A M I L Y

H O M E S

RAYMOND CHAPMAN - GENERAL MANAGER & JODI HILES - DISPLAY HOME AMBASSADOR

aymond Chapman, General Hills talks about dark and moody interiors Manager, joined 4 months ago and features your display homes. Tell us and relocated from Sydney for why you think these colour palettes are a sea change and to work with growing in preference? a long-established home builder People want a home to be a restful, in the region. peaceful and comfortable sanctuary, so dark What is your background in the building and moody or light and bright is subjective. industry? Where did the inspiration come from Four years directly in the building industry when creating these two display homes as such, however I have vast experience in and can you tell us what are your renovating 10 homes, favourite features and building two and project why? management of these, We have realised and a career of 25 years most home builders are I love being the growing businesses not aware of the many first point of and making them very advantages that a Dual contact for people successful. Occupancy build can and showing them When designing a provide. the display home. home for your clients So we saw the writing Hearing about their what are some of the on the wall in that dreams of what they must do’s that Rob higher density living would like to build. Tate Family Homes is the future as land always factor in? becomes more Consultation is the expensive and scarce. most important – We have specialised Consult not Insult!! Listen to the needs and in this part of the market for the last six years accommodate the wants where possible. and have become the trend setter and market Keep up to date with designs and trends. leader in this space. We have realised most home builders are My favourite features are: the garden not aware of the many advantages that a Dual between both Duplexes capturing light and a Occupancy build can provide – literally two green zone; the extra high ceilings in the living homes for the price of one. Extra income from spaces; and the very modern contemporary renting one of the Duplexes or provide a home design of the façade. for relatives right next door. What advice do you have for those who This month’s Style Series with Sovereign are looking at building with Rob Tate?

Ask lots of questions. Examine the value proposition. Spend time on the design and choose features that meet your needs. Choose a reputable builder with a long history in the region. Rob Tate has been building for 46 years !! Jodi is the new Display Home Ambassador – can you introduce her to our readers? We are pleased to have Jodi on our team and she is available 9am-3pm WednesdaySunday at the Display Home. She is a good listener, a great communicator and is also building in Sovereign Hills. Jodi, what are you enjoying most about your new role as Display Home Ambassador? I love being the first point of contact for people and showing them the display home. Hearing about their dreams of what they would like to build and being a part of that process. As I am also currently building, I feel like I can relate on a more personal level, knowing the process of how exciting a new build can be. What are you looking forward to bringing to the team? Lots of new sales (ha ha ha). Seriously though, I hope that my love of real estate, especially the new build side, and customer communication, will excite prospective new clients to build a new home with Rob Tate. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

101

REAL ESTATE

PROPERTY

MANAGEMENT

with ELDERS LIFESTYLE EXPERTS NATALIE FEL HEAD OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT TARYM WRIGHT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER BEC JORDAN CLIENT SERVICES

It’s no secret that the rental market in PORT MACQUARIE HAS SEEN SOME PHENOMENAL GROWTH OVER THE LAST 2 YEARS. REALESTATE. COM.AU HAS RECORDED A 17.7% INCREASE in Port Macquarie rental prices over the last 12 months alone!

he rise of Covid created a ripple effect that nobody saw coming and regional areas experienced a boom like never before. Investors quickly felt the fruits of their labour and reaped the rewards of minimal vacancy, soaring rents and the pick of the crop when it came to tenant selection. With this recent history of extended growth, the Elders Lifestyle Property Experts easily identified that May saw the first fall in average rental prices within the Port Macquarie area in 12 months. With only a drop of a few dollars across the board and June holding tight at the same average rents, this is certainly nothing to panic over, but it does foreshadow something our region has not seen in the last 2 years – WINTER IS HERE. Why does the arctic chill bring a drop in rental prices? The reality is that the middle of the year is

102 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus

rarely associated with big changes. This can be for current investors wanting to change because moving in the middle of the school year managing agents. Investors can benefit by: can be incredibly disruptive for families while the • A fresh start for the accounting side of End of the Financial Year keeps people bunkered investment management down in the office. This lack of demand leads • Securing a proactive negotiator to tackle the to longer rental times on tough winter market market which means price • Ensuing peace-of-mind adjustments are key to leading into the busier The key to garnering quality tenants. Christmas period navigating As we put the reign of this turn in the And the beauty of Covid in our rearview changing agents is rental market is to mirrors, it seems that we that you don’t have to ensure you have a are seeing less of an influx wait until your current solid property of ‘sea-changers’ that had tenancy ends! previously helped drive management If you have an up prices. The workteam in your investment property from-home ethos is still corner. along the Mid North alive and well, however, Coast we’d love the with more businesses opportunity to discuss requiring part-time in the how we can help you. office we may start to see more families heading Contact our Elders Lifestyle Property Experts back to the big smoke which will increase the 02 6584 1199 momentum of the rental market turn. elderslifestylegroup.com.au The key to navigating this turn in the rental market is to ensure you have a solid property management team in your corner. A team that can help you navigate getting the best rent for your property while minimising vacancy days and locking in quality tenants who will love your investment property as much as you. The new financial year offers a great opportunity

Leave the outside where it belongs BETTER EFFICIENCY | MORE RELIABLE | LONGER LASTING

GET IN TOUCH TODAY AND ASK FOR AN ACTRON

0423 258 678 rammair3@gmail.com

DB0673-0422-1.2

with air conditioning designed for Australian conditions

EXPERIENCE THE FEELING OF CONTROL WITH LEXUS OWNERSHIP SOLUTIONS AND A GUARANTEED FUTURE VALUE * THERE’S A FEELING YOU GET — when you’re first behind the wheel of your brand new Lexus. It’s the same feeling of financing your vehicle through Lexus Ownership Solutions, with the certainty of a set Guaranteed Future Value*. Control. You pick the deposit amount, and you pick the length of your loan term. That way, you’ll know the minimum value we set for your Lexus if you’d like to keep it, return it, or swap it for a new one at the end of your loan term. Contact your Lexus dealer to find out more.

L E XU S G UA R A NT E E D FU T U R E VA LU E LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 10 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie | PH 02 6583 9122 | www.lexusofportmacquarie.com.au *The Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) is the minimum value of your new or approved demonstrator Lexus at the end of your finance contract, as determined by Lexus Financial Services (LFS). If you decide to return your car to Lexus at the end of your term, LFS will pay you the agreed GFV, which will be put against your final payment subject to fair wear and tear conditions and agreed kilometres being met. The information provided is general in nature. You should seek your own financial advice to determine whether Lexus Ownership Solutions is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Lexus Ownership Solutions GFV products are available to approved customers of Lexus Financial Services, a division of Toyota Finance Australia Limited ABN 48 002 435 181, AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 392536 Images indicative only.

100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

focus