Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i198 by Focus

issue 198 SEPTEMBER 2022 VAN DER LEY

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 5 HOW TO ENTER: Entry forms can be picked up from our office, at open homes, by emailing ashley@hemproperty. com.au or downloaded from our Facebook page “facebook. com/hemproperty”. Entries close September 30th. PRIZE PACKAGES TO BE WON! HAPPY winners will receive an INCREDIBLE bundle of vouchers to use at the local businesses below and have their artworks printed and displayed on our signboards all over Port Macquarie. PLUS, each winner’s school will have a $500 donation presented to their art departments, to support future budding artists. Every entry will be displayed in our main street window, so keep a lookout for them and get ready to feel happy! HEM’S HAPPY COMPETITION:ART HEM Property are yet again asking all you budding artists out there to get creative and design our new range of SOLD stickers. This year we want to spread happiness across our town with your artworks and will be asking you to design our stickers with a picture of what makes you happy! WHO CAN ENTER? There are 2 categories: Primary School and High School. WHAT SHOULD THE ARTWORKS LOOK LIKE? As the theme is all about HAPPY, you must paint or draw anything that makes you laugh, smile or happy in life. It could be a person, a place, a sport or anything from a day trip to the beach or a ride on the tallest roller coaster! Whatever that thing is in life that brings a smile to your face, show us and help us spread as much happy as possible with your artwork. THANKS TO THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES...

Take part in our FREE School Holiday activity. Putt Putt will be running daily from 10am to 2pm from Monday 26th September to Saturday 8th October (excluding Sunday). Join us on Centre Court for Spring Putt Putt

Having lived in and been a very active part of the Mid North Coast community for over 30 years, and with over 15 years’ Real Estate experience, the choice was easy for Alex to transition to the global Sotheby’s brand. With a strong focus on values, knowledge, integrity and transparency, Alex will be a terrific asset not only for the Sotheby’s brand but also for the Mid North Coast of NSW. Sotheby’s has over 1,000 offices world wide in 81 countries, so let Alex showcase your property to the world, not just the local market. Alex says this of the opportunity, “The choice was simple for me to make, in joining the Sotheby’s International family with its worldwide reach and very strong depth in the Australian and Asian markets. We are in the best position to market and promote the Mid North Coast to the world. Also with the new Byron Bay office now launching, it is the perfect time to be associated with the iconic Sotheby’s brand and represent the Mid North Coast.”

0414 772 AlexwelcomingtakeInternationalNSWalex.glen-holmes@nswsir.com771Sotheby’sRealtygreatprideintotheteamGlen-Holmes.

Auction: 6.00pm, Monday 24th October, Homely Auction House View: By Appointment Alex Glen-Holmes 0414 772 771 David Medina 0419 772 233 sydneysothebysrealty.com

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we deem to be reliable. However we cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested parties should rely on their own enquiries.

‘Meriki Island’ is a fantastic offering with endless opportunities including building your own dream home, or building the already DA approved Eco Tourism opportunity on your own island paradise. With over 30Ha of prime river front land, ‘Meriki Island’ is accessible by either road or water and offers deep water access to the Macleay River. Beautiful South West Rocks with its gorgeous unspoilt beaches is less than 2km away via boat or approx. 10 minutes via road.

A purely unique opportunity not to be missed.

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we deem to be reliable. However we cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested parties should rely on their own enquiries.

A purely unique opportunity not to be missed. Auction: 6.00pm, Monday 24th October, Homely Auction House View: By Appointment

RAINBOW REACH 512 RAINBOW ROAD

Alex Glen-Holmes 0414 772 771 David Medina 0419 772 233 sydneysothebysrealty.com

RAINBOW REACH 512 RAINBOW ROAD

Auction: 6.00pm, Monday 24th October, Homely Auction House

RAINBOW REACH 512 RAINBOW ROAD

View: By Appointment Alex Glen-Holmes 0414 772 771 David Medina 0419 772 233 sydneysothebysrealty.com

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we deem to be reliable. However we cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested parties should rely on their own enquiries.

Got a story idea? Looking to Focus? Contact us for more information. Welcome to the SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

12 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 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 sarahmay@focusmag.com.auBaker EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Dylan dylan@focusmag.com.auGaul GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin gavin@focusmag.com.auMoroney CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Sue info@focusmag.com.auChamberlain 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.

To celebrate this feature, our cover star this month is John van der Ley. John and his wife Carol are the proud owners of Abundance Nursery at Sancrox and are celebrating 10 years in business with their beautiful nursery and café. Read their story starting on page 18. It’s back, the Port Macquarie Carlton Dry Cup Carnival and FOCUS Fashions On the Field. Be sure you have got your best dressed outfits ready and keep on eye on our Facebook page for prizes up for grabs. It’s sure going to be a huge event this year and we are excited to be Weback.have an awesome little Kids who Rip interview this month. Levi Ward is a 14 year old bull rider from Kundabung. He competed in his first rodeo at the age of six and won, and he’s been a force ever since. He is heading off to Las Vegas later this year for the Youth Bull Riding World Finals. Check out his interview on page 68. Congratualtions to John Oxley Motors who have just won Jaguar Land Rover Regional Retailer of the Year for a third time. It’s another beautiful edition and I could tell you about so many more awesome stories and features but I’m going to let you sit back, relax and enjoy our September edition of FOCUS. See you next month.

advertise in

Welcome to spring. Here’s to a month of beautiful weather, relaxing at the beach, amazingenjoyingfoodand drinks at our fabulous cafés and resturants and dare I say it the countdown to the end of the Withyear.anew season upon us we thought it only fair to put together a Spring House and Garden feature (you will find this feature in our Abode section starting on page 101).

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 13 THUR 8TH, FRI 9TH & SAT 10TH DECEMBER 2022 PORT MACQUARIE | BYO OVER 18’s - 2 & 3 NIGHT GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS TICKETS ON SALE FROM THURSDAY 11TH AUGUST AT WWW.FOTSUN.COM - PAY OVER TIME TICKETS AVAILABLETIX INCLUDING FREE CAMPING - FOTSUN IS BYO & BEACHFRONT / THURSDAY ARRIVAL TIX AVAILABLEONSITE HOT SHOWERS / CABINS / CAMP WITH CAR / RESERVED POWERED SITES / PLUS NEW VIP UPGRADE! Cristian Campano Design. TRIPLE J, SAND EVENTS, PRETTY RAD STORE, FOCUS, HAPPY MAG, FINNIANS TAVERN PRESENTS PEKING BLUECONFIDENCEDUKMANCOSMO’SMIDNIGHTVERAFESTIVALOFTHESUN-PORTMACQUARIE2022BYOFREECAMPINGHOTSHOWERSBEACHACCESSVIPAFTERPARTIES2NIGHTGAFROM$229VIPFROM$129ELIZA&THEDELUSIONALSSTUMPSBENSONNYXENFELIVANDTEENAGEDADSRUMJUNGLESOUTHSUMMITCAROLINE&CLAUDEFULLFLOWERMOONBANDGOODLEKKERASTONHOLiDAYSCUFFSMILDWESTTHECOLLIFLOWERSMIKKPSYCHODA+MOREALEXTHEASTRONAUTPACIFICAVENUETHETERRYSTHEDREGGS MASCOTOFYEARTHE

14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 45. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 47. Alex Cassegrain - Wine Time 73. Rachel Leman - Fitness Update 89. Sophie Knight - Hastings Business Womens Network 92. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate 95. Alan Priest - Legal Light 100. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice Issue 198 - September 2022 RYAN NILSSON-LINNECASSIE SCHMIDTRENEE GREEN Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Thank you for your contribution to FOCUS. INTERVIEWS OUR CONTRIBUTORS Follow us on www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus focusmag.com.au 24 32 56 Cassie Schmidt is well known in the local racing industry and with the 2022 Port Cup coming up next we thought we’d catch up with the newest trainer on the block. Local photographer Renee Green is passionate about capturing those sacred moments; maternity, newborn, children and families amongst Port Macquarie’s natural landscape.

Wicked Elf’s head brewer has been getting the new going, and entering in the 2022 Sydney Royal Beer Cider Show where the Pale

Ale won Gold!! 101 KATE WOOD-FOYE CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH Abode PROPERTY GUIDE GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Taproom

their canned beer

Motofest Wauchope is held in Motorcycle Friendly Wauchope. It is an event that gives Motorcycle Riders an opportunity to come together, visit Wauchope, meet other riders and have a fun day out and to encourage the Wauchope Community to continue to embrace the Motorcycle Friendly Town Initiative. When Saturday 17th Sep, 9:00am-2:00pm Where Wauchope Showground, Beechwood Road, Wauchope More motofest.com.au

OUT OF SHADOWSTHEWALK

WALK TO D’FEET MND

SPRING FAIR - OPEN DAY 2022 This event is open to all and it is a great day out for all ages. It is our biggest annual fundraiser! Get your Spring seedlings at our stall, grown and tended by our dedicated volunteers! Jump on a slackline, and enjoy a market vibe with plenty of local stalls offering sustainable ware to the community. Where The Lost Plot Community Garden When 10:00am-2:00pm

The Festival is an annual cultural tourism event held in September with a diverse Festival program, including a two day Treasure Hunt, artists’ markets, local produce tastings, cultural activities, heritage exhibitions and environmental games and art making workshops. When Saturday 24th - Sunday 25th Sep, 9:00am5:00pm More info 0416 641 482 hellokoalas.com

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MOTOFEST WAUCHOPE

2022 Out of the Shadows is an annual walk of remembrance on World Suicide Prevention Day. On this day our community comes together to recognise the impacts suicide and mental health have on our lives.

Grab your friends, family and furbabies and come along to our Walk to d’Feet MND in 2022! With events in NSW and the ACT, your team can come along to your local walk and put the fun into fundraising. Register now. When Sunday 11th Sep,10:00am-1:00pm Where Westport Park, Park Street, Port Macquarie, More portmacquarie/homewalktodfeet.org.au/event/

When Saturday, 10th Sep, 5:30am-6:30am Where Salty Crew Kiosk More eepurl.com/ h6WGzT

6TH HELLO KOALAS FESTIVAL

WOODWORK EXHIBITION & SALES

Come and see the Hastings Woodworkers Guild’s Annual Exhibition. Browse the amazing range of woodwork by our talented local members. Free Entry Raffle - Win a beautifully crafted coffee table Where CWA Rooms, Town Square, Port Macquarie When Fri 30th Sep, 9.30am-3pm; Sat 1st Oct 9.30am-1pm

FOCUS speaks with horticulturalist John and all things food and dining Carol as the business celebrates 10 years in the Port Macquarie-Hastings community.

Dynamic duo and local couple John van der Ley and Carol Goulding are the life force behind Abundance.

Hello John and Carol. It is a pleasure to speak with you both. You have become well known figures in the local gardening world for your incredible contribution to the community through Abundance Nursery Experience. In a nutshell, what do you think has been the secret to your success? Passion and a strong desire to get the job done is the driving force behind the Abundance story. We always knew we had to make Abundance a destination, a place of inspiration, and at the same time offering a haven from the hustle and bustle, and an opportunity to connect with our natural environment. We are both energetic people and gather up ideas and put them into practice as we evolve. For us there is no standing still, to stay on top you always have to be willing to change and find a better way to do things. Spanning an incredible 10 years in business at Sancrox, tell us a little about your vision to create a gardening and plant destination for people to come and learn and to also be able to dine over breakfast and lunch at the picturesque lakeside dining venue? Strong attachments to early childhood memories visiting destination nurseries like Swane’s and Allan Seale’s in Sydney inspired John to recreate those visions. Creating a space to walk through with pockets of inspiration among the stock was the first and most important feature of the planning process. In conjunction with the beautiful and ever-present view of the water lily lake, we always knew we would ensure we were creating a destination for locals and travellers alike.Alifelong love of cooking and using colour in everyday life made good use of Carol’s passions. Creating dishes that evoke a feeling of home and memories of the days before fast food and GettingMasterChef!backtobasics is where we began and where we find we fit the most comfortably with our environment and our customer base. Continued over... We are energeticbothpeople and gather up ideas and put them into practice as we evolve. For us there is no standing still, to stay on top you always have to be willing to change and find a better way to do things.

Loralei Thompson, Junior Waiter

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Looking back, there must be many highlights. Can you tell us about a few? Just getting the front gate open all those years ago was a major highlight. We had relied on farmers markets to sell our product locally, so it was very reassuring to know people could finally come to us and to offer the many varieties of plants we grow in our wholesale nursery for retail. The day we got to sit down on the deck and enjoy coffee with a café full of happy people was very satisfying.

Weenvironmentresponsibilityaourexpectations,thosethenjobisdone.Maintainingsenseoftoourisvital.havearecycling system for our nursery water, sorting system for rubbish waste, solar electricity and enviro-cycle for other waste. Every little thing we can do to make a difference is worthwhile.

John, as a horticulturist by trade, we have talked about your journey, and inspiration for the field which you date back to your childhood visiting nurseries with your family. What do you find most rewarding about growing plants and sharing your knowledge with others? There must be so much to learn about different species etc. I can confidently say with the career I have chosen I have never worked a day in my life. Succeeding in propagating difficult and rare plants from cuttings and seeing them come to life is my challenge. Sharing the end result of this gives me a real thrill. There are so many options open to people now to gather knowledge, with thanks to social media and being able to jump online and research any plant that exists. This year Abundance turns 10. Congratulations on this very special milestone! Despite floods, Covid, lockdowns and fires making the last couple of years not kind to businesses in general – Abundance has survived and thrived! How will you celebrate? We really do feel like we have been through everything Mother Nature could throw at us, along with everyone else in our district! We really need to thank our wonderful staff for making every day happen and persevering during the hard times. We are very proud of them and although they vary in age from 67 to 16 they share the same passion and work ethic that we do. We will be offering some great specials and bonus buys during our birthday week in both the Garden Centre and Café. The champagne will be popping in the back ground too and we might just enjoy the moment and give ourselves a pat on the back. Offering tours of our wholesale division to share some knowledge is often a delight. Many people don’t realise we are the Bougainvillealargest nursery in Australia.

Isobel Waters, Nursery Manager/Horticulturist

Jack JuniorEdwards,Nursery Hand

Another highlight was obtaining approval for Tourism signage. We had our battles with regulatory authorities but are now reaping the rewards. Offering tours of our wholesale division to share some knowledge is often a delight. Many people don’t realise we are the largest Bougainvillea nursery in Australia. Sharing what we have created is our biggest joy. We have people that have been coming since the first day we opened, and they have been on the journey with us.

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What do you love most about what it is you have created and tell us a little about the ethos of the business?

Regardless of the reason someone comes through the gate, we want to do our best to make it a good experience. We offer friendly service, premium quality plants, honest to goodness food and beautiful scenery to everyone. If we meet

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 21 What is on the horizon for you both and the business for the second half of 2022? Spring is always the high point of our year. Everyone in our industry gets excited about the prospect of warmer weather approaching, the plants bursting into flower and the surge in sales it brings. There is so much development happening around us in the Port Macquarie and Wauchope area we will be busy with supplying domestic gardeners with beautiful plants. We are looking forward to the next stage of a project we have been working on for several years with Bourke Council beautification program. It has been so rewarding seeing a dusty and somewhat neglected town come to life with our beautiful Bougainvilleas and to see the residents of Bourke enjoy a more colourful and happier street scape. Away from your busy work life, where would we find you spending your own time? Family time is precious, so we try to spend time with our various families when we can. The beach and the bush are always a drawcard, and travel to anywhere where gardens and a good climate offer new experiences.Plantsare a hobby as well as a source of income so gardening and landscaping when time permits keep us occupied. We live in one of the most stunning areas of the country, so there are times when we just don’t need to go anywhere at all. For people wanting to find out more about Abundance Nursery ExperienceCafé & Garden Centre, how can they best connect with you? Jump in your car and come out to visit us. It is the only way to enjoy the Abundance Nursery Experience! If that is not possible socials and our website are the next best thing. Thank you both. Interview: Sarah Baker. We are very proud of them and although they vary in age from 67 to 16 they share the same passion and work ethic that we do. We will be offering some great specials and bonus buys during our birthday week in both the Garden Centre and Cafe.

Isobel Waters, John van der Ley, Lara Osmond, Horticulturist, Finlay Carter-Ellis, Nursery Man (back row) Laura Selby, Waiter, Carol Goulding, Nicole Barton, Barista (front row) Shannon Neville, Chef, Lizzy Marlin, Cafe Manager.

Powered#wevegotyoucoveredBy WINBUNNINGS$5,000VOUCHER Have your property appraised by Elders Lifestyle Group before November 30th for your chance to win a $5,000 Bunnings Voucher. Scan the QR code & fill out your details to win.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 23 Port Macquarie

To satisfy the new conditions in the marketplace we have seen more price adjustments. Sellers have realised that they must meet the market and if they don’t their property runs the risk of becoming stale and staying on the market longer.

MARKET UPDATE

Elders Lifestyle Group is continuously working to keep up with the re-set with ongoing agent training and support across the group. Agents are training at least once a week to ensure we are prepared for this new market. Across 12 offices, experienced agents are assisting newer agents to navigate this new market landscape. Additionally, a huge focus for Elders Lifestyle Group is our culture. We want to ensure our team is well drilled, skilled, and full of energy in this market – because that is what will assist the highly-valued clients that we represent. Over the past 12 months, there has been phenomenal growth in real estate values across Port Macquarie. House prices have grown 30.6% while unit prices have grown 25.6% however this growth has slowed in recent months.

There are still buyers (but fewer) in our market and the urgency from them to wrap up a property deal has unquestionably waned. Buyers have a little bit more control and their offers are coming with terms like cooling-off periods and are subject to finance clauses.

The month of May saw 104 sales, while there were 93 sales in June, and 84 in July in Port Macquarie – this volume trend was projecting downwards, however, as we write this, the month of August is on track to see more than 100 sales. The statistics are certainly showing that the re-set is taking place.

FROM TEAM

Hello

year! What an incredible year 2022 has been for local real estate! DAVID PLEWS 0448 836 000 | david.plews@eldersrealestate.com.au KATIE RAWLINSON 0407 666 983 | katie.rawlinson@eldersrealestate.com.au Elders Lifestyle Group is giving every market appraisal from September 1st - November 30th the opportunity to win a $5000 BUNNINGS VOUCHER. SCAN THE QR CODE Enter your details Select DAVID PLEWS as your ‘preferred agent’ for your chance to win Powered#wevegotyoucoveredBy WINBUNNINGS$5,000VOUCHER Have your property appraised by Elders Lifestyle Group before November 30th for your chance to win a $5,000 Bunnings Voucher. Scan the QR code & fill out your details to win.

Port Macquarie has handled this changing market extremely well and I think this speaks volumes about our town/region and the future ahead. It’s a stunning place with fantastic services that some places can only dream of and this will always guarantee a solid real estate market. PLEWS September and hello to the final stretch of the

The year opened astonishingly well with real estate performing beyond belief with growth patterns as we’ve never seen before – a once-in-a-lifetime market.

From March, the Federal Election was called and held in May. Then on top of this, over the next four months the cash rate was lifted by 1.75% by the Reserve Bank (as I write this the RBA cash rate is 1.85%). Although interest rates have increased in recent times, they are still historically low. Due to increased interest rates, Covid, and supply & demand factors, our market is transitioning from a once-in-a-lifetime market back to a regular one which has our buyers and sellers experiencing a ‘re-set’.

RENEE LEAH PHOTOGRAPHYGREEN

Local photographer Renee Green is passionate about capturing those sacred moments; maternity, newborn, children and families amongst Port Macquarie’s natural landscape. There is nothing more powerful than a owningwomanherbody, her baby bump and all that comes with it.

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Hi Renee. It is a pleasure to speak with you about your inspiring work in the photography field. You are such a natural behind the lens. Tell us a little about yourself. Firstly, thank you for giving me this opportunity to be a part of this edition. I am a mother of two beautiful children. They are the reason I am here and do what I love. Before I started my photography business I was a full time primary school teacher. I am a lover of all things creative and the ocean is my happy place. I have experienced the beauty of motherhood but also the heartache of loss in which these moments have shaped me into who I am today. It has allowed me to focus on my photography and capture what truly inspires me. ‘I am Mother’ and ‘I am Woman’ represent my passion and the women I get the privilege to capture inspire me daily. I love the rawness, venerability and the timeless beauty of it all. I love the by-line on your Instagram account that states ‘Capturing you in your divine most feminine essence.’ I think this so perfectly sums up your work in the maternity space. Your recent shoots capturing that pregnancy glow are so beautiful. How do you work with a client to ensure you get the best from them in order to achieve that perfect shot? Our feminine essence is the most magical and powerful emotion we as woman can feel. We truly do deserve to feel this and that is what I strive to achieve. When I am capturing a mother in her full essence, it is about the now, the emotions, feeling safe, feeling empowered and feeling that they are magnetic and have an overall glow. I compliment every aspect of their body. It is forever changing and it is forever breathtaking. There is nothing more powerful than a woman owning her body, her baby bump and all that comes with it. It is a time to celebrate and I believe it is a time that we as women need to capture. Continues...

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When did you first pick up a camera and what is it you love about the craft? My first experience of using a camera was in high school when I studied photography as one of my subjects. I loved the creativity, freedom and the ability to capture life as I saw it. Unfortunately I dropped the subject due to lack of availability at school and didn’t pick up a camera again until two years ago just after my son was born. Having my second baby during lockdown I missed out on my newborn session, so I decided it was either no photos or get out my dusty SLR camera and have a go. I have never looked back. The second I started clicking away I knew I wanted to learn more, capture more and not let anyone else miss out on those special moments that we never get back. What type of equipment do you predominantly use? I am a Canon lover. I use my Mirrorless R6 body with a 35mm prime lens. I also use a 50mm and 100mm macro lens. My 35mm lives on my body the most but I love having the flexibility to use my other lens depending on the shoot. My macro is my newest addition, which I love to use during my newborn sessions. What have been some of your highlights looking back at your career? Some amazing highlights have been capturing my nephew entering the world. I was crying the entire time. It was an indescribable moment, just Wow. Growing my business from just capturing my close friends to now offering my services that I have worked hard on building. Moving here to Port and being able to use our property for a location option has been amazing. Having the long grass (hopefully some hairy cows one day) and the rural feel to offer has always been a dream come true. To be really honest, my inner growth is something I am proud of. Knowing who I am and that I can create the business I have dreamt of is amazing. Being here, in Port Macquarie, doing what I love today is a massive highlight. What is it you love most about yourself My 35mm lives on my body the most but I love having the flexibility to use my other lens depending on the shoot.

RENEE LEAH PHOTOGRAPHY

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 27 behind the lens? I love seeing the people I capture in a different way. I seek the sun. I love to bounce off the warmth it provides and create the warm emotions it contributes within my photos. I really enjoy creative shoots, thinking outside the box and doing something a little different. It allows you to push past your comfort zone and grow that little bit more. I have been doing some amazing “I am Woman” shoots and those shoots bring a whole new vibe that excites me. Think Beyonce strutting along the beach in a beautiful robe. We have the best time and all you hear from me is “Yes girl, you are on fire, You look amazing”, because as women, we deserve to feel that way. So behind the lens, expect me to always be your number one supporter and fan. The Mid North Coast region offers such a diverse landscape, from coastal to rural, to ensure a stunning backdrop for shooting every time. What is it you love most about living in Port Macquarie?

Thanks Renee. Interview: Sarah Baker. I have been doing some amazing “I am Woman” shoots and those shoots bring a whole new vibe that excites me.

Being new to the area I have found some breathtaking spots so far, yet still many I want to explore. I love that in a short drive I can be at one of the stunning beaches, rivers or countrysides and I feel super blessed to have our own 80 acres offering that raw rural setting. Port Macquarie has a very simple, free spirit vibe to it which just makes you feel at home. What is on the horizon for you for the second half of 2022? This is a super exciting one for me. I am so excited to reveal my new branding soon. Renee Leah Photography will look quite different and I am so ready for it. I am also super excited to get my home studio happening. We are in the planning stage but hope to get my dream studio up and running in the next six months. This will be a game changer for me, especially having little kids. I will be able to offer stunning and luxurious studio sessions located on our property, I cannot wait. I am also really excited about meeting new people, capturing more memories and growing around the Port Macquarie area. Away from the camera where would we find you spending your own time? Away from my camera, I am spending time with my kids and husband. We are exploring the coastline (my kids and hubby help me find new locations), riding dirt bikes on our property, cooking and I love to draw or paint. I also love to meditate and take some time for myself because life can get busy, so taking the time to slow down brings me so much joy. I love to be inspired and whenever I feel I need a recharge you will find me by the sea. Nothing better than the warmth of the sun and crashing waves over your feet. For people wanting to find out more about your work or connect with you online, how can they best touch base with you? You can find me on Instagram @reneeleah_ photography and Facebook Renee Leah Photography. My DM’s are always open and you can send me a message anytime. If you prefer to send me an email you can via reneeleahphotos@gmail.com and I have a brand new website coming which is super exciting at reneeleahphotography.com.au

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WHAT’S ON @ GLASSHOUSE FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 I 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 Regional Gallery Opening Hours Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays Follow Glasshouse: The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW SPELLBOUND Wednesday 28 September, 7.30pm MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL Saturday 1 October, 7.30pm BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS (SCHOOL HOLIDAYS) Thursday 29 September & 6 October, 1pm CONVERSATION SPACE WITH MOMENTS IN COLOUR ARTISTS Saturday 10 September, 11am EXHIBITION MOMENTS IN COLOUR 3 September to 27 November OPENING NIGHT Friday 9 September, 6pm YOU BE THE JUDGE! TIM ALLEN, JOANNA LOGUE, KIATA MASON, JUSTINE MULLER & CHARMAINE PIKE 1O of the best short films from around the world over 2 hours!

Ben, you have been prestigiousRoverforAdviserNationaltherecognisedpreviouslyasRegionalandServiceoftheYearJaguarLand–alsoaveryaward. Tell us about some of the highlights being in your role? That was a huge honour to win for JOHN OXLEY MOTORS WINS JAGUAR LAND ROVER REGIONAL RETAILER OF THE YEAR FOR A THIRD TIME. Ben Husk has spent the last decade in the motor industry, and the past five years as Service Manager for the family owned and operated John Oxley Motors. FOCUS speaks with Ben on the most recent award recognition for this local Port Macquarie business. Working so long together really builds a relationshiprock-solidbetween the different departments. Whether it’s Sales, Service or Parts, the communication is excellent, and nothing is missed.

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Hi Ben. Congratulations are in order once again to John Oxley Motors on being awarded the Jaguar Land Rover Regional Retailer of the Year for the third time running in four years. This is an incredible achievement. What does this award mean to you and the team? Thanks Sarah. It’s very humbling to have won for the third time in four years, with a second-place finish last year. This award is largely based on the opinion of our customers, and how they feel they are being looked after when they visit our dealership. For the team, it is an acknowledgment and validation of the incredible effort put in by every single person, year in, year out. Coming second last year was a big disappointment –we were so close, but we didn’t let it discourage us. We doubled our efforts and were rewarded with a third win this year. What do you think is the secret to this team’s success? I think it’s combinationaof the talented individuals we have in each role, and the longevity of the group. Several staff members have been here for more than 20 years! Working so long together really builds a rock-solid relationship between the different departments. Whether it’s Sales, Service or Parts, isexcellent,communicationtheisandnothingmissed.

John Oxley Motors and Jaguar Land Rover are names our customers are happy to recommend, and that comes down to us being dependable as well as easy to do business with.

Interview: Sarah Baker

PORT MACQUARIE LAND ROVER 130 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Tel: (02) 6588 retailers.landrover.com.au/portmac-8525 portmacquarie businessRepeat is how you thrive, and word of mouth is much more helpful than any marketing you can do.

HUSKBEN

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 31 Australia, and I was lucky enough to be flown to the UK to visit the factory and test track. I had an amazing time. Since then, I have been fortunate enough to win Regional Sales Manager of the Year last year, as well as Regional Marketing Manager of the Year this year. I am very grateful and humbled to see the work I put in each year be rewarded. I have Oxleytheyandteam,socustomersseveralinterviewedofyourwhospeakhighlyofthelocalretailsupport,aftersalesservicereceiveatJohnMotors.Fromyour

perspective, what do you think is the key to longevity in the car industry, given the competition out there? I believe it is being truly genuine and transparent in your business. Repeat business is how you thrive, and word of mouth is much more helpful than any marketing you can do.

There’s no doubt Jaguar and Land Rover are outstanding premium brands reflecting quality and craftsmanship in their Whatmanufacturing.aresomeofthe qualities that draw you and prospective buyers to each brand? Jaguar Land Rover is such a unique option in the motor industry. It is very rare that you can view a full-blown sports car like the Jaguar F-TYPE and a class leading off-roader such as the Land Rover Defender, together in the same showroom. Jaguar gives you a sporty fix and superior engine quality. Land Rover gives you comfort and capability, while Range Rover gives you modern luxury and refinement. I feel very fortunate to work with such a diverse brand. Tell us a little about the story and origin of the dealership and its development since 1971. We are now into our 51st year in business here in Port Macquarie. The story of John McGuigan’s journey along with many individuals that supported us can be found in the September 2021 issue of FOCUS Magazine on pages 75-78, or simply scan the QR code below.

For those who don’t know you can you introduce yourself to our readers and describe your connection with Port Macquarie?

Schmidt

Cassie Schmidt is well known in the local racing industry and with the 2022 Port Cup coming up next we thought we’d catch up with the newest trainer on the block.

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Training is the only thing that comes close so that’s what I decided my next career path would be. What does a typical day look like for you? Wake up at 4am, we are at the track by 5am. We work roughly 15 horses between me and Luke. Once we finish riding them we finish anything that needs to be done at the stables, that’s normally about 9.30-10am, then we head back to the farm to work more horses. After that we normally have a few jobs around the farm to do then it’s back to the stables to do the afternoon shift. By the

Cassie

Hi I’m Cassie. I’m 29, I grew up in Port Macquarie and went to Westport school. School wasn’t really my thing, I was there just for my friends and sport. I was lucky enough to get to state in multiple sports, but my most successful sports involved horses. I’ve been a competitive equestrian rider, jockey, business owner and now horse trainer. It’s been quite a while since FOCUS last caught up with you. Tell us what have you’ve been up to in the last 5 years? In the last 5 years I’ve retired from being a jockey and moved home (Port Macquarie). I was offered a job with Racing NSW as an apprentice jockey mentor and a re-trainer for off-the-track thoroughbreds through the welfare program Team Thoroughbreds NSW. I also purchased a property with my family and started our own business Bud Regal Park, and in the most recent months I’ve been granted my Trainer Licence. Congratulations on the Trainer Licence, I bet you’re super excited. What was it that cemented your decision to move into training? After being a jockey nothing quite compared to the satisfaction riding gave me.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 33 time we come inside it’s normally around 6pm, so we work from dark to dark 7 days a week. You also are the proud owner of Bud Regal Park, with your sister Priscilla. Can you tell us about it? We are a family-run business, we are located at Wauchope on a 100 acre property. We specialise in pre-training, spelling, breaking in, re-training and lessons. Our property is named after both mine and Priscilla’s old faithful horses that have got us to where we are today, so we thought they deserved the honour of our property’s name. Cassie, you are also quite successful yourself in the show horse competition circuits. How long have you been competing, and tell us about some of your recent competitions and what’s on the horizon for you? I’ve been competing since I was around 4 years old. I have been very lucky to be so successful – I’ve been state champion twice when I was younger. In recent times I’ve produced and owned some of Australia’s best show horses. My horses this year made it top 5 at both Grand Nationals and EA Nationals – both horses were off-thetrack thoroughbreds. Where did your love of horses and working with them come from, what excites you about heading off to work each day? I was born into a horsey family. I grew up at the stables so I don’t think I had a choice –horses were going to be in my life forever. The love of the horse is the reason I get excited to go to work each day. With the 2022 Port Cup coming up next month and your first cup day as a trainer, what are you looking forward to the most? In my last Port Cup as a jockey I had 2 rides for 2 winners, so I hope I can start my training career off in the same style. Nothing better than having a successful home cup day. What advice do you have for other girls who would like to get into the racing industry, whether it be as a jockey or trainer? It isn’t for the faint hearted. It’s hard work and it’s tough, it’s a lifestyle you will have to live, but it’s the most rewarding job in the world, so I say go for it and don’t let anyone stop you! I was born into a horsey family. I grew up at the stables so I don’t think I had a choice – horses were going to be in my life forever. The love of the horse is the reason I get excited to go to work each day.

Tell us a bit about your association – how many members are there and what are your goals? Our primary aim is to provide great artwork for everyone in the community to enjoy. We do this at our gallery, situated in the grounds of the Maritime Museum. We hold four exhibitions per year where our members can exhibit their work.

As an association we have just fewer than 200 members, most of whom are involved in at least one of our activities, which Air

Art Prize, at the Port City Bowling Club, will create an awareness of our artists’ capabilities and provide an opportunity for our artists to display their work in a competitive environment. What do you think an exhibition such as this will bring to the region? There are a large number of incredibly talented, award winning artists in this region – something we should all be very proud of. An art exhibition that is also an “event” generally draws in a broader viewing public. It strengthens the reputation we have as a cultural hub – something that is very much a part of the region. A judged exhibition provides a platform to share, through

A platformprovidesexhibitionjudgeda to share, through competition, the development of emerging skills – it keeps us motivated.

Hastings PRIZE VALLEY OPEN

Painting • Tutorials; and • Social HastingseventHoldingGroups.apublicsuchastheValleyOpen

36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

The Hastings Valley Fine Art Association will be holding the Hastings Valley Open Art Prize at Port City Bowling Club from 1st to 9th October. We spoke to association member Bernice Daher about the exhibition, the artists and how to enter.

•include:Gallery Exhibitions • Life Drawing • Plein

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 37 competition, the development of emerging skills – it keeps us motivated to expand our skills and work towards a goal. How do you organise the display –how much work goes into this sort of exhibition? It is a lot of work and we want the exhibition to be curated and presented professionally. Luckily, we can draw on the expertise and enthusiasm of our members. There is a team dedicated to the administration work and another group working on the hanging of artworks. We will all take turns on duty throughout the exhibition, which means there will always be an artist on duty to chat to. How many artworks do you think will be on show? We estimate between 150-180 artworks with a limit of 2 works per artist. The artworks will cover a range of media and styles.

Paintings, Drawings and Printmaking created with Oils, Acrylics, Watercolour, Inks, Pencil, Charcoal and Pastel will be included in the show. Our past experience tells us that there will be larger and smaller works covering a wide range of subjects. In other words, something for everyone.

Who can enter the show and what is involved?

The winning works will be announced at the formal opening and prize presentation on the afternoon of the 1st of October. Entry is free. How will the competition be judged?

Highly respected local artist Yvette Hugill will judge the exhibition. She will be looking at a variety of technical skills, content quality and wow factor elements. We will also be promoting a People’s Choice award for all visitors. Have you had much community support? Yes – in a difficult time we have found the community to be incredibly supportive. We are grateful for this and it just demonstrates the true value of the arts in our current environment.

The exhibition is open to all artists in the Mid North Coast Region. We haven’t promoted the art prize beyond the region purely because we have limited space to display the work properly. However, if entries come in beyond this region and we have space, they will be included. Artists wishing to enter can find the entry forms on the Hastings Valley Fine Art Gallery website or at the Gallery, which is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 2pm. Where is the exhibition held and when can the public come and have a look through? The exhibition will be held at Port City Bowling Club, 4 Owen Street, Port Macquarie. This is a wonderfully central spot for both locals and tourists with plenty of parking. The show will be open to the public from 1st to 9th of October from 11am to 7pm.

What can we expect from this year’s show?

Everything to do with horses – Dressage on Friday afternoon, on Saturday the Australian Stock Horse Feature Show, Shetlands, Welsh Ponies, Quarter Horse. Flag and Barrel Racing, Show Jumping and on Sunday the heavy horse display. Saturday sees the Beef Cattle Show and Sunday the Poultry Show. Both days see a huge Dog Show run by the NSW Dogs Association.

The Camden Haven Show is on again after a 2-year “Covid” break. The community is looking forward to getting back again for a good old-fashioned Agricultural Show.

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A major attraction is the Woodchop on Sunday, including two NSW Titles – Standing Block and Combo Championship with big prize money. In the Pavilions you’ll see Needlework, Patchwork Quilting, Photography, Horticulture, Art, Craft, Cooking, Cake Decorating, Jams and Preserves, Jewellery, Confectionary and Home Brew. Outside there’s a Pet Parade and the Billabong Zoo Display, Honey Bees and Native Bee Displays, car display from the Auto Restorers’ Society and Yesteryear Truck & Machinery, Hasting Co-Op’s rural store display, displays by the Camden Haven Rural Fire Service, the SES, Girl Guides and Red Cross. Major attractions include Walter Whip and the Flames, Flair Action Sports with their acrobatic motorbike displays and McCabes Family Circus. Music from Camden Haven Concert Band, Black Magic and Blu Hyp Big Bands, dinner with Milton Trad Jazz Band, Flamingo’s popular music and country and western with Wauchope’s Autumn Blue.

A huge THANK YOU to over 65 sponsors donating cash and product from $10 - $6,500! This Show couldn’t exist without support of sponsors and community volunteers.

Tell us what you’re looking forward to? The people of the Camden Haven sharing what they’ve been doing the last two years. During Covid, many honed their needlework, craft, photography and artistic skills and we’re looking forward to seeing them share some of this creative work.

Of course there’s Side Show Alley and food stalls, barbecues, bar and drink stalls and coffee.

Schedule details: camdenhavenshow.org.au Hard copies: Kendall Community Op Shop, Kendall Community Hall and Kew Cor ner Store.

AT KENDALL SHOWGROUND

Confirmed artists include The Black Sorrows, Darryl Braithwaite and The Waifs headlining Friday, Saturday and Sunday night respectively. Other artists to appear include Bill Chambers, The Wolfe Brothers, Dom Turner, Imogen Clarke, 19-Twenty and so many more. A full listing of artists is available on the website.

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Festival Coordinator Donna Ballard says, “After a two year break, we were determined to reshape and refresh the Festival and this line-up truly is a dream come true for us!” Since its inception in 2007 the Festival has grown to become a much loved annual event in the community calendar. The Festival is this year returning to its place of origin on Central Park, a location that allows visitors to immerse in the town centre with cafes, boutiques and heritage listed buildings surrounding the Festival site. Festival attendees can bring their chair to the expansive marquee and relax in front of the main stage to listen to more than 30 acts featuring over 100 musicians over the three brilliant days of music. Festival Coordinator Donna adds, “They could also throw a rug under the bright flag sails and sip on drinks from our local featured distillers and absorb the vibe of the music and Alongsidesurrounds.”the plethora of live music, the festival also features artisans showcasing their handmade wares and artworks, workshops are held across the weekend and visitors enjoy the best in food and delicacies from local businesses from the Mid Coast NSW region.

The Festival atmosphere is brought to life with stilt walkers, circus performers, belly dancers, and you can participate in yoga, tai chi and indigenous storytelling, while children can play in the “Kids Zone’’.

The town of Wingham on the NSW Mid Coast will once again welcome visitors from across the state, and indeed Australia, from Friday 14th October to Sunday 16th October with the welcome return of the Wingham Music Festival and a stellar line-up worthy of any grand music festival in Australia.

WINGHAM MUSIC 14 \16 OCTOBER 2022 WINGHAMMUSICFEST.COM.AU 2022 ARTIST LINE UP CENTRALWINGHAMPARKNEWSOUTHWALES THE WAIFS DARYL BRAITHWAITE THE BLACK SORROWS  THE WOLFE BROTHERS BILL CHAMBERS  DOM TURNER’S RURAL BLUES PROJECT DARREN JACK BAND  19TWENTY  SWAMP STOMPERS BLUES ARCADIA  KRISTEN LEE MORRIS & THE DIRTY SNAKES HURRICANE FALL  IMOGEN CLARK  SALT & STEEL ANDY TOOMBS  JAKE DAVEY BAND  JODI MARTIN GHOST ROAD  HARRY’S LOOKOUT  BIG FINS SOUTHERN HOLD  GLEN MEAD  LINDA MIZZI TRIO JACKSON JAMES  WINGSONG  WORKSHOP TRIO MISS GRACE MUSIC  BUSKER WINNER - TRAVIS

Over the last 15 years music fans have travelled to the Mid Coast region to not only enjoy the very best in music but also take in the beauty of this unspoilt coastal region of NSW. The town of Wingham is located in the Manning Valley, nestled in the Barrington Coast. It is 11km from the town of Taree, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Manning River and expansive National Parks.

COVER DISH BREAKFAST CANNOLI: Vanilla, Ricotta and Mascarpone filled croissant with orange liqueur strawberries, crushed pistachios and fairy floss from FRANKIE’S PMQ 40 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 41 PORT CITY BOWLING CLUB $22 AROUNDCHICKENSPECIALSWEEKLYCLASSICROASTSUNDAYSTEAKMONDAYSCHNITZELTUESDAYTHEWORLDTHURSDAY Your local Club LUNCH 11.3OAM - 2PM DINNER FROM 5.30PM Bookings Essential 4 OWEN ST PORT MACQUARIE | P 6583 1133 | PORTCITY.COM.AU *INCLUDES A FREE BEVERAGE | CONDITIONS APPLY

To make this classic margarita you’ll need tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur (also known as triple sec). While a classic margarita is quite easy on its own, I wanted to simplify the recipe even further with an easy to remember 2-1-1 ratio.

1 Saltlime methodingredients

1 oz of orange liqueur

2 oz of tequila

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1 oz of lime juice

Shake or stir these ingredients together and then add ice (on the rocks). Alternatively, you can triple or quadruple the recipe in a blender and add ice to have a frozen margarita as well. To add salt to the top of the glassgenerously spread the salt on a plate large enough for the rim of the glass. Run a slice of lime around the rim of your glass. Then place the rim in the plate of salt. Pour your classic margarita in a glass and you’re all set!

MARGARITACLASSIC

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 43 FRANKIE ’ S Our space has been designed to share with YOU! RELAX WITH FRIENDS. NEW SPRING MENU. GOOD VIBES. frankiespmq@gmail.comfrankiesportmacquarie.com.auCONNECT WITH US! 14 Clarence St Port Macquarie 6583 Open7387daily 6.30am to 3pm /frankies.pmq/frankies.pmq PROPRIETOR - FRANKIE’S PMQ Hi Trent, Frankie’s PMQ is fast becoming a hub of fresh dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Since launching in January this year, what have been some of your highlights? Since opening the doors we have had an amazing reception from locals and tourists, so a big thanks to everyone that has come down to support us. Bringing the concept of the café to life and seeing it develop, the team grow and the offering evolve is really rewarding. Having the café push through the first seven months and looking back from where we started to where we are now and what is still to come is very exciting! The look and feel of the venue is on-trend and inspiring. Tell us a little about the visionary behind the cafe and restaurant’s design? We wanted to build a space that is clean, coastal, relaxing, and efficient. Although I can work on efficiency I had help from my family, in particularly my older sister Krystel Davis with the design. She really came through – the place looks amazing. We still have a few enhancements to make but we are getting there. You work with a very talented and large team, focused on creating the best service and dining experience for customers and might I add one of the few cafés in town providing table service. Why is this an important attribute for you? We are in hospitality, so naturally a large driving force in the business is customer experience. Delivering the best service we can, in the most convenient way for the customer is the goal. Table service was something that was always on my mind, and yes a bit of a point of difference. I am lucky for the amazing crew that I have at the café, in the height of staffing issues across the industry, somehow I found a bunch of absolute legends! TRENT DAVIS

Like all very special things, they come to an end so very quickly – but of course the laws of supply and demand apply in that if we had them all the time they wouldn’t be... well, special!

The aroma always comes first... distinctive, pungent and perfumed.

And of course, there’s nothing more decadently delicious than butter infused with fresh truffle, and we always like to get busy with creating a truffle infused salt too. So special and we’re very lucky to be able to enjoy excellent quality truffles right here in Australia – the most well know region is Manjimup in the far south of WA, and also VIC and HappilyACT.and luckily for us this year we’ve been able to offer some for you to enjoy at the restaurant over the last few weeks. Like all very special things, they come to an end so very quickly – but of course the laws of supply and demand apply in that if we had them all the time they wouldn’t be... well, special! Truffles are a shining example of the enormous seasonal variety of produce we are so very fortunate to be able to choose from within our marketplace. Luxury culinary items such as these, we may be able to only fleetingly experience – however there are many and varied more accessible foods to choose from. There’s no simpler equation to follow when choosing ingredients – fresh and seasonal equals delicious and versatile. To bring an otherwise ordinary dish to the next level, you can certainly shave some amazing truffle over it but for the majority of the time you may only need to squeeze some perfectly fresh lemon, or sprinkle some freshly picked, fragrant herbs… right now however, I’m shaving those truffles until they’re gone till next time.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 45 FROM THE STUNNED MULLET with LOU PERRI Palate focus contributor. If you’ve experienced it once, you’ll never mistake it again. Elusive, mysterious, exotic and decadent. Powerful, yet subtle. Earthy, nutty and enigmatic to taste, albeit surprisingly underwhelming to the eye… Have you guessed which particular palate pleasure is being described here? That’s right, it’s the humble sounding Tuber Melanosporum, aka the Black Winter Truffle. Basically considered to be a form of mushroom, although these babies grow under, rather than above ground, truffles are a rare delicacy, only available for fleeting periods and sometimes not at all. Harvests are never guaranteed and farmers need to have a next level amount of patience to prepare to wait at least 4 years for yields to deliver, and in only very specific Thisconditions.isbecause the spores need to attach themselves to tree roots, and mostly to well established oak and hazelnut trees, that need to be a particular distance away from each other in order for the truffle to flourish. (However they may happily grow in the wild occasionally, due to reproduction via animal Gooddroppings).luckharvesting them though, due to their elusiveness and natural camouflage (their appearance is often likened to clumps of soil, or some say poo!). Only specially trained and highly skilled truffle hunting pigs and dogs can locate these hidden gems with any precision, and once they’re harvested – it’s a race against time to ensure they are consumed within the most optimal window of freshness to allow their amazing aroma and mysterious powers to be at their most intoxicating. Fresh truffles are among the most glorious of culinary experiences. Shaved delicately upon mashed potato, scrambled eggs, creamy pasta or risotto, they find their perfect pairing. Rich, yet bland foods make a wonderful marriage with truffle, where the incredible aroma and subtle, yet earthy flavours are ever more enhanced.

Some less expensive wines produced from good wineries can easily age from three to five years. It’s often surprising how well they can keep their freshness.

The answer is flavour development and textural structure. Grapes contain tannins in their skins, seeds or pips, and stems which leach into the wine during pressing, maceration fermentationandof the juice. When wines are young, the primary flavours such as grassiness, stone fruit or citrus will be prominent. And there will be some secondary notes associated with various winemaking techniques. Tannins’ preservative properties help give wine endurance. As wine ages in the bottle, the tannins combine into larger compounds that eventually fall out of the wine as sediment, producing a taste far less stringent than when they were young.

It’s often assumed that only the finest, most expensive wines can age, but any well-made wine stands a good chance of developing.

Old V New The colour of the wines will also change with age. White wines tend to move from a pale lemon colour, to amber or even brown depending on the grape.

Why do we age wines at all?

he Old is Good this proverbial expression applies equally to white wines, as it does to reds. In Australia, many wines have the ability to age very well however the market has determined that the wines be made in a more category.‘drink-now’

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 47 with ALEX CASSEGRAIN SENIOR CASSEGRAINWINEMAKERWINES Wine TIME focus contributor.

Dry, aged white wines can become almost viscous and oily, while reds tend to feel smoother and silkier. The colour of the wines will also change with age. White wines tend to move from a pale lemon colour, to amber or even brown depending on the grape. As red wines age, oxidation will develop shades from purple tints to tawny or brown hues. While the proportion of alcohol, acids and sugars stay the same, the flavours continue to Whitechange.wines are a less common choice for long term cellaring as many grape varieties won’t benefit from aging. Sauvignon Blanc is a wine to drink young as its primary attributes start to fade over time. Wines that will age gracefully include Riesling, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc, some resulting in astonishing flavours and textures after decades in the cellar, Rieslings being the most prominent.

The dining experience is unique at The Royal. Our food brings people from afar, families and the local community together with our discreetly stylish dining room and ever changing specials board that highlights fresh, local and seasonal food. People keep coming back for more because the standard is high. We cook from scratch, it’s a process of time that produces food that exceeds the expectations of a country pub. Whether it’s a relaxed lunch in the beer garden, a sumptuous Sunday roast with all the trimmings, an indulgent dinner or a classic pub meal, the dining is an experience that will impress.

People comingkeepback for more because the standard is high. We cook from scratch, it’s a process of time that produces food that exceeds the expectations of a country pub.

My name is Geoffrey Booms, I’m a French-trained chef who recently moved to the area. The beginning of my life in Australia began in 2013 when I moved from my home country of France to Sydney to work as a chef in some of Sydney’s renowned restaurants. Tell us about your background and experience in the hospitality industry. For as long as I can remember I have always cooked. My family has a deep passion for cooking, my father is a chef and I simply grew up immersed in it. I grew up in a town placementbyschoolyearsandSoissenscalledinFrancestudiedfor3ataculinaryfollowed18monthsonthe French Riviera in two Michelin star restaurants. Shortly after I was qualified I travelled to Australia and spent three years working at Helm Bar and Bistro in Darling Harbour, Burnt Orange, Bistro Mosman, Victor Churchill, Frenchies and Four Pines Brewery before setting my sights on The Royal Hotel, Kew. When it comes to creating your menu, what do you take into consideration and why? The menu at The Royal Hotel Kew is versatile and caters for a range of different people. We focus on utilising only the best ingredients that support local farmers to develop a menu that is known for the pub classics whilst showcasing some more gastro-style pub meals that provide an upmarket dining experience. What is the most popular item on the menu, and what is your favourite dish to cook and serve? The most popular item on our menu is the Lamb shanks as it reflects the Royal Hotel Kew’s warm, cosy, country style. The dish is made using everything from scratch. I love this cooking process, it can’t be rushed. Hard to pinpoint a favourite but I love experimenting with the specials – this week I have enjoyed creating Crispy skinned pork belly, it was a colour and flavour explosion on the plate. I used succulent pork with a medley of carrots, jus and Tasmanian sensational!raspberries.driedIt’s Tell us, how would HotelatdiningdescribeyoutheexperienceTheRoyalKew?

Please readers?yourselfintroducetoour

KEW

2 Ocean Drive (02) 6559 royalhotelkew.com.auinfo@royalhotelkew.com.au4099 HOTEL

GEOFFREY THE ROYAL

Thanks Matt. The Garden Bar is situated on the banks of the stunning Macleay river.

hospitalityyourandyourselfintroducetoourreaderstellusabitaboutbackgroundintheindustry?

Hi I’m Matt, head chef at the Garden Bar & Kitchen in Frederickton. I’m from the UK originally and moved to Australia 4 years ago. I worked in the UK for 12 years for a number of award winning restaurants and boutique hotels, I also owned my own restaurant in North Yorkshire. Hi I’m Raj, sous chef at the Garden Bar & Kitchen in Frederickton. Originally from India, I moved to Australia in 2015 to get a better education and studied a master’s degree in Sydney. My first job was working in the Coffee Club as a breakfast chef, then I went on to work with the Marriott Hotel in Sydney and discovered a strong passion for cooking. Where did your passion for creating amazing dishes come from and what are your favourite ingredients to cook with? Matt – My first love of food came from my dad who is a big home cook. He would take me with him to the butchers and I would always be wanting to help in the kitchen. I first stepped into a professional kitchen at the age of 16, the buzz, precision and energy of creating food got me hooked.

I like to work with anything that showcases local and sustainable produce, but if I had to pick one, it would be hand dived king scallops from Orkney Islands, Scotland. Raj – Until working at the Marriott Hotel I had never seen the fine dining side of hospitality. I worked with a Michelin trained French Chef which ignited my passion for cooking, from there it was about putting in the work and trying to absorb as much as I could.Ilove to work with spices and have a love for Asian cooking. I am classically French trained but love to dabble with other cuisines.

For a little taste of what we have to offer, imagine a mouth-watering chargrilled lamb shoulder, served pink to share, served with your choice of seasonal sides. Our ideas come from brainstorming, current trends and what seasonal and local produce we can get, but above all dishes have to be fresh and big on flavour!

When it comes to functions and entertainment what does the Garden Bar & Kitchen offer? The exclusivity you feel as you look out over the river and mountains creates the perfect space for any special occasion. The Garden Bar lends itself well to large functions with multiple dining areas in the restaurant.

Tell us about the dishes on the menu and where your ideas some from? The dishes on the menu are fun and accessible with a creative twist, influenced by different cultures. We have a selection of small and large plates designed to share and great vegetarian options. We have a weekly changing market fish, and you can expect house made breads and pastas.

Onsite at the Old Cheese Factory is a warehouse space just a stone’s throw from the restaurant, it’s the perfect space for wedding ceremonies. We offer a variety of menu options for functions and events ranging from alternate drop, share style, tapas, canapes.

Exciting, delicious and seasonal local produce. With a view of the beautiful Macleay River, it’s the perfect setting for a long lunch with some of our delicious cocktails or a cosy intimate dinner by the fire. How can we contact the Garden Bar & Kitchen to make a booking?

BAR GARDEN

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Can you

For those who haven’t experienced the Garden Bar, what can our readers expect when dining with you?

Bookingthegardenbar.com.auonline(02)65668864info@thegardenbar.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 51

30g salt

300g plain potato, mashed

• Once doubled in size weigh the dough into 195200g balls, spray with oil and roll into tight balls

First things first… how to make a starter. You’ll need a small/medium sized jar. Start with 60g of strong bread flour and 60g of water in the jar, mix this together until you get a thick pasty mixture, leave this in a warm spot somewhere for 2-3 days or until you see bubbles on the surface. You will then need to feed your starter each day equal amounts of water and flour (30g of each) and you’ll know it’s ready to use when it has a sour smell and lots of bubbles (it is usually ready by day 7).

750g strong bread flour

• Give it a small mix by hand just to combine everything together

16g 100ml400mlyeastwaterextravirgin olive oil

375g starter METHOD

• Once the bread is proved sprinkle with the rosemary, salt and extra virgin olive oil

• Then leave it to mix for 10-15 minutes or until combined and shiny coming away from the sides of the bowl (I usually use setting 3 or 4)

INGREDIENTS

• Put the balls on a tray, spray with oil & cover with cling film and leave these until they double in size

• Once mixed spray a bowl with oil and put the bread mix somewhere warm until it doubles in size

• Serve with some delicious cultured butter or hummus whenever you use your starter always replace what you,ve used in equal amounts (e.g. if you use 375g of your starter, feed it 187.5 water and 187.5 flour)

• Put in the oven for 5 minutes at 205oC, then 5 minutes at 195, then 10 minutes at 180oC

TIP MAKES 10 SMALL LOAVES Potato FOCACCIA

• Finely chop some rosemary whilst you wait

TO MAKE THE BREAD

• Add all the ingredients together in a kitchen mixer with dough hook being careful to put the salt & yeast in different sides of the bowl. Alternatively you can knead the dough by hand if you don’t have a mixer

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I began my craft beer journey at 18 with homebrew kits at uni, making rocket fuel and people sick… I began learning the craft in 2006 at Cowaramup Brewery in the Margaret River Region before moving to a full time brewing role at Bootleg Brewery in 2007. I got a certificate in brewing at the University of Ballarat in 2008 and have really continued to learn every day since. Can you tell us a bit about your career as a brewer so far? I have loved it all from the very beginning. The great thing about brewing is that the landscape has been moving so fast, particularly over the last 10 years, there is always something new and exciting to learn. I learnt brewing in the second oldest brewery in WA to one of the newest at Margaret River Brewhouse and have worked with many interesting people along the way. Plenty of twists and turns have seen me end up in Port Macquarie at Wicked Elf and it is a great little town with plenty to do and see for Kelley, me and the kids. You’re now the Head Brewer at Wicked Elf, can you tell us about Wicked Elf and your role? Wicked Elf is a small, independent brewery just 5 minutes from town in beautiful Port Macquarie. It has been producing amazing high quality beers since 2008 and has a really neat and tidy little brew kit that can make just about anything. I came along midpandemic and the business had gone into a bit of a holding mode and my role has been to get it back up and running and slowly grow the business. Lots of new beers and getting the new taproom cranking has been the goal. What is the process like of coming up with and perfecting new beers? It can be a bit intimidating creating and coming up with ideas for new beers. I have a I learnt brewing in the second oldest brewery in WA to one of the newest at Margaret River Brewhouse and have worked with many interesting people along the way.

focus Hi Ryan. When did you first learn how to brew beer?

56 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

WICKED ELF Ryan Nilsson-Linne is head brewer at Wicked Elf here in Port Macquarie. Since he came on board he has been involved in getting the new Taproom going, and entering Wicked Elf’s canned beer into the 2022 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show where the Pale Ale won Gold and all others entered received medals!

NILSSON-LINNE

You guys recently won a gold medal for your Pale Ale at the 2022 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show, what was that experience like? It was a really humbling experience, it is always nice to win a Gold medal particularly for a packaged product and it was a good result for a lot of hard work for myself and the team over the last 12 months. It was also nice to see consistency across the range with all beers entered medalling including the Porter, Red IPA and Fastidious.

Wicked Elf has their own Taproom and restaurant in the industrial estate here in Port, can you tell us a bit about it and what’s on offer there? We opened the taproom over the Covid period and also have our own restaurant attached. We have a 200sqm area with seating for over 100 people and a few really nice areas for functions and events as well. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights supporting local up and coming artists and regular events including our regular comedy shows and beer degustations.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 57 couple of firm beliefs with beer. One is why make a beer you wouldn’t drink more than one of, so a beer needs to have some balance and sessionability. Two, I also believe that no one flavour is strong enough to carry a beer, so my fruited sours will nearly always have a complement and in my hoppy beers I always champion one hop variety but try and find another that will complement that and bring out its best characters.

How did you come to enter and how did it feel to be recognised for your work? I entered as a benchmarking tool for our beers. I don’t necessarily create a beer to suit award guidelines but it is always good to get feedback from industry professionals. We purchased a canning line in August last year and this was our first opportunity to see how the beer that we can ourselves stands up in a high level competition. Looks like they did pretty well!

A big beer garden gives a really nice indoor and outdoor options and we have a little play area for the kids as well. How many different beers do you usually have on tap there? We have 12 Wicked Elf beers on tap, including fruited sours (currently a lime and coconut sour), Hazy IPA’s, Lagers, Porter and of course the Pale Ale. Quite often we will have a small batch of something different too, currently it is a Cold Brew Coffee Kolsch. Do you have a current personal favourite beer? It’s hard to go past the Pale Ale but recently I have been tucking into the Sabro Sour (lime and coconut) as it is super refreshing and the Stab in the Dark a delicious 9% Imperial Stout which warms the belly on these cold nights. What are some of your plans moving forward for Wicked Elf? The next step for Wicked Elf will be expanding the areas where we are selling our beer. Currently we are very Mid North Coast focused and we have seen really good growth in the region over the last 12 months, but to continue Sydney, Newcastle and Brisbane will become a bit of a target this year and hopefully we will be able to get our beers into more people’s hands. Thanks Ryan. This was our opportunityfirst to see how the beer that we can ourselves stands up in a high level competition. Looks like they did pretty well!

58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus GREATER-PORT MACQUARIE SEPTEMBER2022 GIG GUIDE MARK BERGIN CRAIG STEWARTSNEZ EVERY TUESDAY 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Open Mic EVERY WEDNESDAY 6.30pm Botanic Wine Garden Live Music EVERY THURSDAY 6.30pm Club North Haven Live Music FRIDAY, 2 5.00pm Wicked Elf Brewery Mat Brooker 5.30pm Black Duck Brewery Liam McAlary 5.30pm Chop n Chill Andrew Cousins 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Cheryl Hall & the Wisemen 6.30pm Port Mac Golf Club Kailey Pallas 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Jake Davey 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Craig Stewart 8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Super Cell 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Ticketed Event SATURDAY, 3 11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter 12.30pm Chop n Chill Andrew Best 2.00pm Brew Haven Geoff Jones 4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Kailey Pallas 6.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel EBD 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Lo Monaco 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Steve Bennett 7.30pm Port City BC Loose Change 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Dirty Coverz 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Soundscape SUNDAY, 4 12.30pm Chop n Chill Simon Gudgeon 1.00pm Long Flat Pub Steve Bennett 1.00pm Moo & Bean Dusty Soul 1.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Leigh I’Anson 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Happy Dave 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Trev Hart 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Nikki Rudge FRIDAY, 9 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Mat Brooker 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Young Floyd 5.30pm Chop n Chill Andrew Best 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Can’t Adult Today 6.30pm Port Mac Golf Club Mark Bergin 7.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Ticketed Event 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Rueben Carr 7.30pm Port City BC Rock City Saints 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Ivan Ooze SATURDAY, 10 11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter 12.30pm Chop n Chill Jackson James 2.00pm Brew Haven Nikki Rudge 4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Subvertigo 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace DJ Session 7.30pm Hastings Hotel Gary King 7.30pm Port City BC Lighthouse Music 8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Trevor Hart 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Cranky Duck 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel The Barflys SUNDAY, 11 12.30pm Chop n Chill Goody 2 Shoes 1.00pm Moo & Bean Jasmine O’Brien 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Pure Acoustic Duo 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Bill Roberts 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Ruby Blunt FRIDAY, 16 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Ruby Blunt 5.30pm Chop n Chill Mat Brooker 6.00pm Black Duck Brewery Keaper 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Stevie B

Guests

Pam

FRIDAY,

BENNETTANDREWCOUSINSSTEVE HANNAH LEE

Happy Dave

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 59 6.30pm Port Mac Golf Club Damon Winter 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Hudson Rose 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Gary King 8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Steve Taylor 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Leigh I’Anson SATURDAY, 17 10.00am Black Duck Brewery Ticketed Event 11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter 12.30pm Chop n Chill Andrew Best 1.00pm Moo & Bean Cameron Cusack 2.00pm Brew Haven Ruby Blunt 4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Pepperjack 7.00pm Comboyne Services Club Pure Acoustic Duo 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Acoustic Kick 7.30pm Beechwood Hotel Rhys Callinan 7.30pm Hastings Hotel The Monster Boys 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Brody Ireland 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Mum Says Rock 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Can’t Adult Today

SUNDAY, 18 12.30pm Chop n Chill Craig Stewart 1.00pm Long Flat Pub Steve Bennett 1.00pm Moo & Bean Tanisha Palmer 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Nikki Rudge 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Goody 2 Shoes 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Gary King

FRIDAY, 23 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Brody Ireland 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Kyle Moore 5.30pm Chop n Chill Mat Brooker 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Rockabillys 6.30pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Ruby Blunt 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Finn Hoy 7.30pm Port City BC Graham Howle 8.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Cheryl Hall & the Wisemen 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Raku SATURDAY, 24 11.00am Douglas Vale Damon Winter 12.30pm Chop n Chill Brody Ireland 2.00pm Brew Haven Nickolina River 4.00pm Moo & Bean Pure Acoustic Duo 4.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Hata Wave Bowl Winchester 7.30pm Hastings Hotel 7.30pm Port City BC Cheryl Hall & the Wisemen 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Fella Felafel 8.00pm Laurieton Hotel Live Music 25 12.30pm Chop n Chill Mystery 1.00pm Moo & Bean Leigh I’Anson 1.30pm Wauchope Country Club Floyd 2.00pm Laurieton Hotel Brody 4.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Craig Atkins 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Kyle Moore 30 5.00pm Black Duck Brewery Leigh I’Anson 5.00pm Wicked Elf Beer Suave Duo 5.30pm Chop n Chill Craig Stewart 6.00pm Club Lake Cathie Gary King 6.30pm Port Macquarie Golf Club Besty 7.00pm Bonny Hills Hotel Ticketed Event 7.00pm Fernhill Tavern Geoff Jones 7.00pm Wave Bowl Terrace Hata 7.30pm Port City Bowling Club Dusty Soul 8.00pm Finnians Irish Tavern Alter Ego

Pam

Ireland

Georgie

Duo

SUNDAY,

Young

7.00pm

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MAKE THE MOST OUT OF SPRING!

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 61

This is a great time for delicious fresh produce. Juicy mangoes have just begun and nothing says Spring more than a sweet cheek of a Kensington Pride. Do you know that this is the one fruit Ken does not like to eat? Oh well, more for us to eat then!

Asparagus is also in stock. This crisp Spring veg can be enjoyed raw or cooked. Look out for the bright green spears in our cabinet this Makemonth.sureyou enjoy those warmer afternoons and take time to enjoy what you love. It could be as simple as a walk along our beaches, a surf down at Town Beach with Ken, or filling up your fridge with delicious fruit and veg from our “Little” shop .

Schneider Melinda

Thanks Melinda. Melinda will perform her celebration of Love, in LOVE SONGS, at Glasshouse Port Macquarie on Saturday September 17 2022. Tickets on sale now from glasshouse.org.au or calling the box office on (02) 6581 8888 He wholespentbasicallythefirstdate telling me everything that was wrong with him! I had never had a man do that, they usually themselvestalkedup.

How did you and Mark meet? Mark and I met at a charity event in 2008. It was a trivia night and we were both quiz masters reading out questions. We were seated at the same table, but I had brought a date with me. I remember Mark walking up to me and being very full on and up front and saying ‘Hi I’m Mark.’ I introduced myself to him (along with my date) and he made some witty comment. I remember thinking to myself, ‘who IS this guy?’ I liked him. I thought he was full of positive energy, but I must say, I wasn’t really paying that much attention to him… I WAS on a date! lol Tell us a little bit about your love story? Mark and I were thrown together again to be guests at another corporate event. I heard that he was coming along and I was quietly happy to see him again because I knew I would have a fun night. We sat next to each other all night and chatted and laughed and he asked me out to lunch. Well, it ended up being dinner about a month later and I fell in love with him for his authenticity and humour. He basically spent the whole first date telling me everything that was wrong with him! I had never had a man do that, they usually talked themselves up. Mark was so transparent and it was refreshing. I knew that night I’d found someone very special. When did you both decide to get married and how did the proposal come about? We decided to get married last year. Our little boy Sullivan, who is 9 said ‘Mummy, can you please marry Daddy?’ I explained to Sulli that we would be together forever and you don’t have to be married in order to be happy. I asked him why it was important to him. He said ‘I just don’t want somebody else to marry you!’ Awww, so we thought why not, let’s do it if it’s important for Sullivan. How did you know that Mark was “the one”? I knew that Mark was ‘the one’ from the quiet knowing that I had. I had never experienced it before. It had always been crazy forever.thatmoreame.aPoortoldtheaboutquietinsanity,infatuation…neveracalm,knowing.IknewamonthintorelationshipandMarkhowIfelt.Mark,ittookhimlittlelongertotrustHehadbeenhurtlot,soheneededtimetobelievethiscouldbe

Positive! Getting back on the road and doing what I love and getting married to my soul mate, it doesn’t get any better than that!

Multi Golden Guitar Award winning country artist, Melinda Schneider and Choirboys founder and singer, Mark Gable, are getting married after thirteen years of “unwedded bliss”. The pair’s unconditional love has also inspired a national tour for Schneider that celebrates love and features Melinda’s Golden Guitar winning hits plus a selection of Melinda’s favourite love songs from some of her most cherished singer/songwriters the likes of Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, to name a few.

How has the response been to your engagement announcement? So overwhelmingly beautiful. We announced it last year in July during lockdown. We thought, why not put some positive and happy news out there, so we announced it publicly… people have been so happy for us, it’s sweet. What sort of wedding are you expecting to do? Well, we’ve both been married before, so it won’t be the traditional kind. We’re thinking more like a big party with all of our friends and family. We’re getting married on our favourite beach on the Central Coast and Sulli is going to walk me down the aisle. Can you tell us about the tour you’ve created in Love Songs? Well, after we announced the engagement, I thought it would be nice to do a show full of love. We need all the positivity we can get right now and there are so many beautiful love songs to choose from, I thought it might be a feel good thing to do. What sort of songs can fans expect to hear? I’ll be performing some of my original love songs, songs I’ve written for Mark and Sullivan, some of the songs from my album Great Women of Country, like ‘Love Hurts’. Some classic songs like Joni Mitchell’s ‘Both Sides Now’ and Elton’s ‘Sorry Seems to Be The Hardest Word’, classic pop songs like ‘Say A Little Prayer For You’ and ‘Natural Woman’ and some jazz standards like Natalie Cole’s ‘L.O.V.E.’… there are so many! What is your favourite all time love song and why?

Ooooh, that’s a tough question – Bonnie Raitt’s ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me’ has to be up there. How is 2022 shaping up for Melinda Schneider?

Contact Maddie on 0458 728 857 for a free @anyoccasioncakesandpartyfoodquote!

Port Macquarie based Maddie Wilson is a passionate entrepreneur with an inspiring business ‘Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food.’

ny Occasion Cakes & Party Food is a small business created by myself in 2018, brought about by my passion for homemade cooking and love of cake! Preparing, baking and presenting sweets to suit any occasion that looks almost too pretty to eat is my favourite thing to do! As a busy mum myself I understand the importance of saving time wherever you can. The business has gone from strength to strength and I am proud to say my little business has over 100 five-star reviews on our Facebook page and over 4,000 people following it too! Weddings, parties and events season is definitely upon us! How can your business take the hassle out of food prepping and cake baking for parties for special events? We can help spread the love at your wedding, party or special event by you not even having to lift a finger! From the cakes to cupcakes, cookies and catering treats, my business collaborates with you in a friendly, professional, stress-free way so you can focus on just having fun! Whatever the occasion we offer a vast array of menu options with delicious food that not only tastes amazing but delivers the wow factor. There’s always room for cake, however we also offer fresh fruit platters and charcuterie meat and cheese boards, using the best local ingredients. Do you offer packages, and tell us a little about different menu options you can provide? We sure do! We have our ‘Birthday Bundles’ that can include cake smash cakes, party cakes, cookies, cupcakes and/ or birthday platters and party food too! Our cupcake lolly cookie boxes are jam packed with goodies simply perfect for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, Easter, Christmas and even Halloween!

MADDIE WILSON ANY

Our party food range consists of Mars Bar slice, fruit skewers, Mars Bar teddy cars, jelly cups, fairy bread, chocolate coated strawberries, Milo balls, home made fudges, fondant sugar cookies, cupcakes, chocolate crackles and chocolate spiders just to name a few – as well as our most popular themed birthday cakes, personalised cookies, edible image cakes and platters.

OCCASION CAKES & PARTY FOOD

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 65 Port Macquarie couple Maddie and Nathan Wilson are passionate about weddings, celebrations and all things party related. FOCUS speaks with Maddie and Nathan about their thriving business Love Letters. Our inspiring local business “Love Letters” began two years ago when we had reached out to hire the letters for our upcoming wedding. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to due to the previous owners wanting to sell. We were so impressed with the whole idea that we bought the business! It’s very heart-warming for us to be able to add that unique touch to a special event whether it be a surprise birthday, photo shoot, engagement party, proposal, vow renewal or our most popular request, weddings! Love Letters create such a stunning focal point and add personalisation to any celebration. Wedding season is definitely upon us as we approach Spring and Summer. How can Love Letters add that ‘wow’ factor for a wedding or special event? Larger than life our illuminated freestanding letters are the biggest on the Mid North Coast and the perfect way to say, “you light up my life like nobody else”. Whether it’s a big party or small get together with friends and family, Love Letters are guaranteed to add a touch of glamour to your event and leave a lasting impression. Our goal is to set the party mood and make your special celebration shine. Big, bright, and theatrical, seeing our lights in full swing is a real talking point and an even better photo opportunity… the perfect end to a perfect day. We don’t just do weddings and parties, our business also hires out to suit corporate functions and charity events! Let us go one step further and take away the stress of all the finer details such as placement and delivery by liaising directly with your function’s coordinator at your venue! Our service also includes delivery to and setting up at your desired venue and packing down and removing the following day! LOVE LETTERS PORT MACQUARIE

The show I’m bringing to Coffs ‘Crying Over Spilt Milk’ won a weekly comedy award at the Adelaide Fringe this year. This is a wildly exciting one for me because the Adelaide Fringe is massive and there are hundreds of comedy shows there. To be selected as one of the best was insane. Especially because I was touring the show with my baby on my hip. A lot of people told me I couldn’t do it, so there was a heap of validation in receiving that award. What do you get personally out of getting joy from people and making them laugh? I think making people laugh or giving them a moment of joy/entertainment away from

HETH ERINGT ON

Amy Hetherington stumbled into a career as a comedian and has killed it in the standup scene since. She will be on the Mid North Coast this September performing her latest show ‘Crying Over Spilt Milk’ and we can’t wait to check it out and have a good laugh!

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Hey Amy, you’re heading to Coffs Harbour to perform your comedy show on 22 September. What can we expect from the night? I’m so excited to get to Coffs! It’s my first time there! The show is called Crying Over Spilt Milk and it’s a high energy overshare about the pain, joy, and madness of having a new baby. I wrote the show in the sleepless mayhem of having a newborn to laugh about some of the challenges of breastfeeding, birth and new parent life. You can expect a lot of silly stories, some truth bombs about parenting and an appreciation for nipples. It’s a show for parents, would-be parents, or neverwould-I-ever parents (found it’s an effective contraception). Your start to comedy was quite unconventional. How did you first end up on stage? I was doing Ocsober as a fundraiser for a local charity and my gimmick was to ‘dare me to do something you’d never do sober’. I got up to all sorts of mischief and one person said they would never do stand-up comedy sober. So, they put down $200 for the charity and I got up at an open mic gig and had a crack. Lucky, I didn’t bomb, and I loved it. Haven’t stopped since (now it’s my career… who would have thought).

After the initial stand-up gig where did it go from there and how does one prepare to be a comedian? I’ve been doing comedy for the past 8 years. I just kept rocking up and organising local gigs. I soon realised I was onto something with my stories and comedy style so I started touring festivals and putting on interstate shows. I do a lot of MCing and hosting events in Darwin so the comedy built in nicely to it all. Preparing to be a comedian is a tricky one because everyone’s process is different, but I think it’s about looking around you, seeing things that could be turned into humour and then working on ways to say those things in your own voice. The best comedians have a unique take or style and I think the most important part of stand up is knowing what that is. Who do you think your comedy routine is tailored to? This show, in particular, is a great time for parents or soon-to-be parents because they’ve been through the trenches of newborn life and pregnancy. Comedy is best when it’s relatable. But my other shows have been more general in the topics covered. I have a lot of material about living in Darwin and all the chaos that delivers.Ithink my comedy is good for people that like their humour cheeky (not controversial), high energy and positive – a lot of my style is taking things and finding the silver lining to them. Your stand up has recently received awards. Tell us what you won and how it felt to receive that recognition?

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 67 their lives is my purpose. Everyone has something they’re good at and a lot of people say ‘ooohh comedy that must be so hard’ but I’ve found it’s come naturally to me to entertain and talk to people.It’sareal gift to make someone laugh, especially these days when there are so many stresses and things that have made life hard. I never lose appreciation for audiences and the opportunity to entertain someone. I’m very lucky I get to do what I do. You have spent the past year touring with a baby on board. How have you been managing the balance of stage and mum life? Hahaha… managing. That’s so funny because some days I’m treading water. It’s been a lot of work but I think the thing that keeps me going is how proud I am after every show and how excited I am for my little baby Ruby so be part of this life with me. The balance is made easier by the wonderful support I have with my family and friends… but it’s been an exhausting year. I think every time there’s a headspacethatwho’saudiencehappyorsomeoneheardajokevalidatestheirasanew parent… that makes it all worth it. How has the routine been received so far? Very well. I am so proud of this show. It’s my best writing and tightest show and I think it really connects with people. I’ve been doing the show for lots of mums groups and brand new parents and for some of them it’s the first ‘adult’ thing they’ve done since having a baby… and those audiences have really loved it. Not just for the jokes but for the night out. Where can people find out more about the show?

Crying Over Spilt Milk is being presented by Coffs Comedy at the Dark Arts Café. Thursday 22 September 2022 5:30pm-9pm Ticket price includes dinner. I’m supported in the show by Ben Stevenson who is one of my favourite funny humans on the Ticketsplanet. trybooking.com/CBPRU And follow me on socials if you like :D amyhetheringtonAmyHetheringtonComedy

The show is called Crying Over Spilt Milk and it’s a high overshareenergy about the pain, joy, and madness of having a new baby.

Levi Ward is a 14 year old bull rider from Kundabung. He competed in his first rodeo at the age of six and won, and he’s been a force ever since. He is heading off to Las Vegas later this year for the Youth Bull Riding World Finals. This is Levi’s third time competing in the World Finals and last time he placed 2nd, so this time he has got his eyes firmly on becoming world number 1!

I have two sisters who also compete in rodeos. Bobbi is 17 and she steer rides, breakaway ropes and barrel races. My younger sister Franki is 12 and she barrel races and breakaway ropes. Both of my sisters have won ABCRA titles. What are some of your goals for the future? My future goals are to live in America and make number 1 in the world. Thanks Levi, good luck!!

My dream has always been to be named number one in the world. It would mean so much to me.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 69 Hi Levi. Can you tell us about when you first decided to give Rodeo a try? The first time I decided to give rodeo a try was when I was six. I was introduced to John Scott, Brad Scott, Kevin Cooper, Michael Cooper and Ben Lockhart, who all rodeoed or held rodeos. I went to Brad Scott’s bull riding school and had a ride and loved it. Michael Cooper then trained me at home. What do you love about it? The challenge of riding the bulls, and meeting new friends through the sport along the way. What sort of training is involved in being a bull rider? To train I ride bulls at home a couple of times a week, I also get on a bucking drum and use an exercise ball to try and help my balance. It must take a lot of courage to get up on a bull, how do you prepare yourself? I don’t really prepare myself, I just get straight on and have fun! You have been winning titles since you started the sport, and later this year you’re off to Las Vegas for the Youth Bull Riding World Finals! What would it mean to you to be named best in the world? My dream has always been to be named number 1 in the world. It would mean so much to me. What are you most looking forward to about visiting Las Vegas and competing? I’m really excited about competing in Las Vegas as I’ve never competed there before. I’m sure the atmosphere will be big. Also it will be great to catch up with all my mates that also ride. Can you tell us about some of your experiences at other rodeos you’ve been to? I’ve participated in competitions all over Australia and been to America twice before. I’ve made many friends along the way and I’ve experienced some injuries as well. I’ve had a broken arm, kicked liver, hematoma, just to name a few, but it’s all the thrill and adrenaline and challenge that keeps you looking for the next rodeo. Growing up in the country, what other activities are you involved in? I have played Grade football and in my relaxation time I love fishing and pig chasing. You have some siblings that also compete in different events, can you tell us about them?

he Recipient Recently, A Current Affair, and then a follow up story on the Today show, featured a story on ex NRL Cronulla Shark, Nathan Stapleton. This man, after a successful career in the NRL, moved to the country and in his first game suffered a broken neck. In fact, he “died” on the field, and it took 14 minutes for him to be hope!andstory,Thisresuscitated.isaverypowerfulhighlightingtragedythencourageandnow

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This fundraiser will be launched on Sunday 11th September during the Gurus performance with raffle tickets and donations. During the cruise, we will have an item donated from Eric Grothe that will be auctioned onboard. Tickets for the raffle will be on sale on all Port AdVenture cruises from Sunday 11th September until 10:30am on Saturday 24th September. At 11am on the 24th September the raffle draw will take place in a public arena (at dockside of PortAdVenture Cruises).

The Draw On Saturday 24th September, Port AdVenture cruises is a holding a major event in conjunction with Triple MMM who are staging an outside broadcast from 9am–12noon. This broadcast is to celebrate the 1 year “birthday” of the Rhythmboat in Port Macquarie (formerly from Sydney Harbour when Covid forced a business direction). This event is also a celebration for the opening of Fisherman’s Wharf and the beautification of the boardwalk now linking the Breakwall, Town Green and Fisherman’s Wharf.There will be plenty of family entertainment during this live broadcast with invited Port Macquarie businesses contributing to the atmosphere and event. Triple MMM, 1 week before the broadcast, advertises the planned entertainment for the day and on the day, creates excitement for everyone in attendance.

We have scheduled as part of these activities, the draw of the fundraising raffle for Nathan Stapleton his wife Kate and his young family.Wehave approached another rugby league legend, and great supporter of our business, Benny Elias, former Tiger, NSW State of Origin captain and vice-captain of Australia on 2 Kangaroo tours to be the guest drawer of the tickets for all raffle prizes. (Benny has indicated that he is available, but it is yet to be confirmed).

Port AdVenture Cruises is proud to announce a major fundraiser cruise for September.

FUNDRAISER

WATCH THE STORY HERE

The Motivation When Elsa and I (Dave Lazarus) saw this story on A Current Affair, we knew we could help.We understand that Nathan and family don’t live in Port Macquarie and there are a lot of locals that also need help, however, we have a very close connection with rugby league and to have input from Eric Grothe, Benny Elias, we hope that the Port Macquarie community see this as a wonderful opportunity to help in a small way by buying tickets or even a donation. We feel that if people take the time to see the A Current Affair package that they will feel the same way as we did and help us by either donating a prize or buying a ticket for the raffle.

Our Mission To create awareness for the Greater Port Macquarie Region and our community to give this family a helping hand. The Idea Port AdVenture Cruises has booked ex Rugby League legend, Eric Grothe, who has a very popular covers band, Eric Grothe and the Gurus.While all rugby league fans remember Eric as a tearaway winger for Parramatta, NSW and Australia, only a few know that he is a front man for this great band. With the assistance of supporting businesses in our Port Macquarie region, we are putting together a mega raffle package for everyone and anyone to buy tickets and win the donated prizes. We are in the process of getting accommodation houses, collectable NRL memorabilia, local experiences including Billabong Zoo, Cassegrain, Majestic Cinema, and even a helicopter ride (these are only a few of the prizes that will make up this mega raffle).

MAJOR

Port AdVenture Cruises

SAGES AND SISTAHOOD Danielle Crisp 72 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

At Miss Motivator we specialise in women’s only training in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. We help women create healthy behaviours and routines for optimum health and fitness. We offer a gym facility including a range of classes and personal training options, outdoor bootcamps and pre and postnatal exercise. If you're interested in finding out more, contact 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 73 FROM MISS MOTIVATOR with RACHEL LEMAN FITNESS UPDATE focus contributor.

• Frequency • Duration • Intensity

If you answered no, it might be time to change up the routine, get outdoors, try a new class or a new sport. When considering this, be sure to consider a well-rounded weekly program that will provide you with what you need.

Hooray it’s Spring! Spring is often a time when many people decide it’s time to “get back into it”. I am an advocate for everything in moderation and taking small actions each day towards your overall health and fitness, but there are moments in time when things just slide a little off track and for many people this can be during the winter months. The days are shorter, the bed or lounge is warm and cosy and sometimes before you know it healthy eating and your regular exercise plan just disappears off the radar. So, this month – let us Spring clean your health Hereroutines!are some tips to help you assess where you are, where you want to be, what you want to keep and what you need to leave behind as you move forward with your health and Thefitness.first thing to do is to take stock of where things are at now. Are you happy with things or do some parts of your health goals and routines feel out of alignment? Areas to consider are exercise, nutrition, and fun. Yes fun, but we will get to that later. As far as exercise goes there are a few things to think about:

If yes, do you enjoy it, is it working for you, are you getting results, is it challenging, is it fun? Does it make your body and mind feel good?

Are you currently doing enough exercise? A good guide for healthy adults is 30 minutes a day consisting of a combination of moderate and vigorous activities and including strength exercise (lifting weights) at least twice a week.

When it comes to nutrition try focusing on what you can add to the menu that will have you feeling more energised, and I’m not talking about more coffee, red bull or pre workout! Keep it simple. Often, we focus on all the things we can’t have – this only has us wanting it even more. Leading to overeating in many cases. So, when thinking of what you might need to add consider if you are currently eating enough vegetables, fruit, complex carbohydrates and protein and healthy fats to sustain a healthy body and mind. If the answer is no, start with trying to add some veggies to each meal. If it’s helpful, try keeping a food diary for a couple of days to get a really good idea of what you are using as fuel – is it enough or too much, is it balanced, or do you need to enlist the help of a dietician or nutritionist to help you get things on track?

An important part of creating healthy routines is the magic ingredient – FUN! Are you doing anything fun in your regular routine? If not, start now, life is all about having fun, so have a think about what you love to do, what makes your heart full, and get out there and do it!

SPRING CLEAN YOUR HEALTH ROUTINES

Do not forget to consider your current stress level and all that it is happening in your life at the moment. You feel a little fatigued or overwhelmed by the current level of busyness in your week and adding another high intensity session to your week would not be helpful. If you feel your body and mind need to slow down a little, consider adding mindful movement such as Yoga, Tai Chi, or meditation into your weekly routine.

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I currently live in Lighthouse Beach with my husband and son, but Lake Cathie owns my heart. Your business is Sages and Sistahood, tell us how you got started and brought your dream alive? My journey started after our Mum passed. I answered an ad for a nanny, and so began my journey with Ann Thayer, into a deep dive of all things soul speak. A world class homeopath, naturopath (the old ways), masseuse and ridiculously gifted clairvoyant, Ann’s knowledge catapulted me headfirst (kicking and screaming) on an epic journey of self. Sages and Sistahood was a natural evolution in my career, of combining both my retail skills and spiritual learnings and amalgamating them into my adored brand. Life is unique and I wanted to capture that and share that through my products. (It’s also at times crappy. Feel free to drop in for a hug.)

SAGES & SISTAHOOD Sages Sistahoodandwas a natural evolution in my career, of combining both my retail skills and spiritual learnings and brand.themamalgamatingintomyadored

The most important part of our designs is intention.Westarted out with our Coconut Crystal Candles 4 years ago, and that original design grew into the birth of more product lines. Now we offer Intention Oils, many styles of candles, Botanical Smudge Bundles, etc. We’ve also created a line called the Witchling Series which is a learning tool for anyone interested in herbs and crystals and growing their knowledge there. I have designed, created and produced every single product in our line to date, with more currently in the design process. For those who aren’t familiar with your Danielle Crisp is the proud owner of Sages & Sistahood. Intuitive custom and hand made products to better well being.

Please introduce yourself to us and your connection with our beautiful area? Lovely to meet you all! I’m Dee and I’m a dabbler in all things spiritual. I’m grateful to be here living and working on Birpai Land. My connection with Port Macquarie started eons ago when my family moved to the area from Flinders Island. It was a beautiful place to grow up. After 47 years of living here, I suppose you could call me a ‘local’. Following the loss of our Mum, I left the area to do some much needed soul searching. However, I always found my way back to my grass roots.

Thanks Dee.

Sages Sisterhoodand has grown to a National wholesaler. From Lord Howe Island to Tasmania, we currently have 75 stockists and continue to grow. Our good looking Stockists can be found on our website.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 75 business, give us an overview of what Sages and Sistahood is all about. Sages and Sistahood is about bringing positive energy in your personal space. I have always been surrounded by strong and wise women, hence the name, and I wanted to be part of a collective of strong women in business who are writing their own story. We have a podcast in progress where we will all get to share space with these incredible teachers and hear their journeys firsthand. Our lines and ingredients are natural, organic and ethically sourced.

Sages and Sistahood has grown to a National wholesaler. From Lord Howe Island to Tasmania, we currently have 75 stockists and continue to grow. Our good looking Stockists can be found on our website. You will soon be opening your door to your very own space, congratulations. Tell us what can our readers except when they visit you at your new spot? People can expect to feel welcome and relaxed when entering our showroom. I’m facilitating a workshop at the Mind Body Spirit Festival in Sydney next month and will be continuing with workshops in our space. We will also have readers available and loads of other goodness to share. Where do your ideas come from when creating your products? I’ve always been a creative person and I’ve learnt to listen to my intuition on whether an attribute will work in a particular product. I start with an idea, and perfect it over time. Each ingredient has a particular role to play in the creation of each product. What advice do you live by each day and what makes your “job” so rewarding? Gratitude! As soon as you open your eyes think of 5 things you are thankful for. When this daily habit is formed, watch how you start to create moments and things to be thankful for, hence more joy and abundance entering your life. Try it! #dareya How can our readers get in touch with you? You can find us on Instagram, Facebook or oursagesandsistahoodwebsite.sagesandsistahoodsagesandsistahood.com.auadmin@sagesandsistahood.com.au

76 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus INTEREST FREE PAYMENTS FRO M $39/WEEK BOOK A FREE INVISALIGN CONSULT • Keep your treatment going from home • Have less time off school • Eat what you want 143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au8425 www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au MADE FOR COMFORT. MADE FOR FREEDOM. STRAIGHT TEETH. NO HOLDING BACK. • Faster treatment than traditional braces • A comfy ride, without the wire pokes! • Proven results with over 10 million straight smiles created world wide Andrew Chandler 1/129 West High Street, Coffs Harbour 12/38 Clifton Drive, Port Macquarie (02) 6651 3220 With over 2000 staff and services across NSW, QLD, SA and VIC, Nextt provides high quality disability support to over 1500 people each year. As a registered NDIS provider, we offer a truly individual service that is tailored to suit your needs. Support is provided by a team of experienced, well-trained support workers who share our passion for providing excellent support and empowering our clients to get more out of life. Do you need help with your NDIS plan? At Nextt, we can support you to reach your goals and become more independent. • AccessCommunity • Building Skills & Capacity • CoordinationSupport • Attendant Care • SupportedIndependentLiving • Core Supports • Personal Care • Assistance with Daily Life Get More Out Of Life

Don’t let pain rush your decision - Waiting until you are in pain to ring a dentist is not ideal, because it sets an unrealistic time line in finding a dentist to look after your dental health long term.

For more information, or to book an appointment, call the caring team at Sundial Dental Port Macquarie: 6583 3533 or Wauchope: 6585 2015 or visit www.sundialdental.com.au

CHOOSING A

Choose a practice that invests in their technology, their team and community. Do they use digital technology, such as digital X-ray or 3D dental imagery? Do they have an oral health therapist or a hygienist working with them? Do they sponsor local community events or children’s sports?

Choosing your closest dentist - just because they are local and you’ll save travel time doesn’t necessarily mean they are the right dentist for you or your family’s needs.

When you book a consultation, bring your questions and evaluate the team’s answers and decide if this is the team that you are confident in to look after your smile! Do they guarantee reliable service and promote optimum health, as opposed to treating you like just another customer that comes and goes?

A GUIDE TO SUCCESSFULLY CHOOSING A DENTIST FOR YOUR FAMILY.

Finally, does the practice accept your health fund and can you process the Hicaps in the practice at the point of payment, so that you only pay the gap?

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THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, A guide to success.

Choosing the first practice with an available appointment - just because they have time on the day to fit you, doesn’t necessarily make them the right dental practice to help you maintain your smile for life.

Asking a friend and then basing your decision upon their dental needs - not every patient’s dental needs are the same, and the dentist that suits one patient may not be able to offer the right solutions for another. Instead Choose a Dentist, ask many of your friends for recommendations and ask what kind of work they have had done before you book. Do your research, and choose several well established practices that have a good reputation. Call and enquire with each about becoming a patient, or maybe call and enquire, then visit the practice. Choose a practice that is clean, friendly, hygienic and makes you feel at ease - a practice you feel you can trust your dental health to. Make sure the entire team, including the dentist, demonstrate good communication skills. Make sure it’s a team you would you feel comfortable asking questions of, and not just the dentist.

Credentials and specialised training are important, so understand your dentist’s training - not all dentists are created equal; you wouldn’t ask your tyre repairman to rebuild your engine, would you? It’s important to inquire about the dentist’s clinical experience and training when booking, so you understand their area of expertise or specialised training. If it isn’t done right, you’ll probably pay to do it again - choose a practice with a good, long standing reputation, because they will pride themselves on what their patients say about them and they have built a reputation on that feedback and lasting results.

Request a written quote or an itemised list of services with prices included before agreeing to any treatment - and observe if the staff and dentist show pride in their quote and estimate accuracy.

MEDICAL AESTHETICS CLINIC 5/12 Highfields Cct, Port Macquarie 0421 253 025 | portmedicalaestheticsclinic@gmail.com MINIMALLONGNONDOWNTIMEINVASIVELASTING FACIAL REJUVENATION TREATMENTS Smooth out uneven skin texture, diminish fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area, and fade dark spots with TriBella™ total facial rejuvenation treatments. CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION. Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic is pleased to introduce their brand new, state of the art skin technology

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 79

Hi Tamara. Tell us a little about Zenryoku Martial Arts. Zenryoku means ”All one’s strength”. Zenryoku Martial Arts (ZMA) is a freestyle martial arts founded in 1999 by a team of martial artists including Kyoshi Gerard Wade and Kyoshi Jason Harris. Its lineage traces back to Japanese combat-based martial arts, Nippon Kempo. ZMA is based on the Mid North Coast with Dojos in the Macleay, Hastings and Nambucca regions. ZMA uses the traditional kyu/dan grade system introduced in Judo and utilised in many Japanese Arts. ZMA has established itself as a family-friendly style that allows students of all ages and backgrounds to develop great martial arts and self defence skills. Our Wauchope Dojo has been up and running for 5 MINUTES WITH Tamara Dobson 10 years now under the instruction of myself and the black belt team. What classes are available for kids and adults? We offer classes for 3 different age groups: Little Ninjas, 4 years to 6 years (half an hour class), Juniors, 6 years to 12 years (one hour and a half class) and Seniors, 12 years + (one hour and a half class).

MARTIAL ARTS ZENRYOKU

I know practicing martial arts can have incredible benefits for the mind and body. What are some of these benefits people can expect from participating in your classes? Our classes focus on discipline, flexibility, training ethic and overall fitness. Benefits people can expect from participating are increased confidence, self-discipline, social skills and awareness, improved coordination and gross motor skills. How can people connect with you and find out more about what’s on offer at Zenryoku Martial Arts? Head on over to our Facebook and Instagram pages @ ZenryokuWauchope or phone Tamara on 0487 628 339. Classes are held every Monday at the Wauchope High School Gymnasium. Class Costs are: Little Ninjas $9 per class and Juniors and Seniors $10 per class.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood were running an Emergency Services Blood Challenge from 1st June to 31st August. As members of the SES we love a new challenge therefore didn’t need to be asked twice. We work as a team no matter what job is thrown at us, so this challenge was no different, we came together to get the job done. As first responders we know the importance of blood donation in helping save lives so we are more than happy to do our part. Why is it months?overimportantparticularlytodonatethewinter We know our community is prone to illnesses in the winter months. This winter has been particularly bad for illnesses. It’s important we keep our supplies up to ensure those in need have access to blood or blood products to get well. Had you all donated before or were some of you doing it for the first time? We had 4 new donors on the day of our group donation with another 2 later that week. When you organise a group activity people love taking part, so for anyone who for whatever reason had not donated before it was their chance to get involved. If anyone was a little scared of needles, they had their SES family there for moral support. We also had one volunteer who had been excluded due to living in the UK finally given the all clear, she could not wait to roll up her sleeves. For those that don’t know, what was the process like? We also had one volunteer who had been excluded due to living in the UK finally given the all clear, she could not wait to roll up her sleeves.

Alison Neale was one of many members of the SES Port Macquarie Unit that recently fronted up together at the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood centre to donate blood and plasma. As first responders they have seen first hand the positive impact these lifegiving donations have on the lives of others.

The SES Port Macquarie Unit rolled up their sleeves recently to donate blood and plasma at Lifeblood, why did you decide to get everyone together and participate?

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I am a relatively new member of the SES, joining last October. Growing up, my dad was a Volunteer Rescue member. I watched him run out the door whether it be to attend a car accident, rescue someone from the bottom of a cliff or even attend Driver Reviver (I loved going along). It was normal for us growing up watching him help others. I remember being covered in sauce and placed in many cars on training days. I have volunteered in some capacity all my adult life helping others in need. I’ve found myself at the back of the SES building a number of times over the past few years helping fill sandbags, dropping these to members of my community and helping where I could, so I thought maybe it’s time I joined up. The SES has so much to offer its volunteers, the training is accredited, you get to do things you never thought you would, and my fellow members are like another family. What have been some of the biggest challenges and some of the highlights of your time with the SES? To date I struggle to think of a challenge, I guess seeing community members in distress is always hard, so being able to make a difference in that person’s life is very rewarding. Actually, standing in the rain for 3 hours wasn’t very pleasant once the water had reached every inch of my body in the middle of winter. The highlight would have to be realising my fears could be overcome. Climbing second storey roofs, putting trust in my fellow members, swinging from the rafters at the shed during training or using a combi tool there’s nothing I won’t give a go. Now as a blood donor yourself, what message would you like to get out there about blood donation?

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For those donating plasma this process takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, for those giving blood you’re done in a very short period of time. After you are done the café is where you head for a pie, cake, biscuit (lots to choose from) and another milkshake if you like. All up you are there for around 1.5 hours when giving plasma. As a member of the SES I’m sure you’ve seen some life threatening situations before, did that have any influence on you wanting to donate? As a rescue unit our SES members have responded to situations where people have life bloodresultinjuriesthreateningwhichmayinneedingtransfusions or other blood products which come from the community giving blood. This does have an impact when thinking about what else you can do to help people, whether it be community education or donating blood, we are always looking at how we can make a difference. How long have you been with the SES and what made you want to join?

The reception staff were so welcoming from the moment we walked through the door. You fill out a questionnaire then meet a lovely nurse who double checks a few things with you, checks your blood pressure and gives you a little finger prick (probably the worst part). Once you have been given the all clear, you go into the donation room where you relax on your own recliner with a few heat packs, juice or water followed by a milkshake (with malt if you like) while you are hooked up to the machine.

I had no idea that plasma from our area is made into 18 different products used for life saving treatments. It also means you get your blood back therefore having little effect on you – it’s great for anyone with low iron for example. You are well looked after and very appreciated at our local donation centre, I am booked back in already.

As respondersfirst we know importancethe of blood donation in helping save lives so we are more than happy to do our part.

SENIORS LIFESTYLE & LIVING

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84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus Please call direct on 02 5542 2055 or 0458 164 029 or visit our website at www.highfieldsmanor.com.au With a focus on ‘reablement’, we provide care for people with high and low needs and take a person-centred approach, adapting our services to each of our residents alongside specialist rehabilitation and dementia support - 105 private room facilities - Offering Respite, Permanent and Palliative Care services. Highfields Manor is your new provider of quality aged care, respite care, rehabilitation and palliative care in Port Macquarie. RESPECT - COMPASSION - EXCELLENCE - LEADING BY EXAMPLE WELCOME TO HIGHFIELDS MANOR

Ingenia Gardens Portfolio Manager, Madonna Jackson said “Having access to an on-site Community Manager and living in a community with level, covered walkways connecting them to communal facilities are just some of the many ways residents feel safe and secure.

“It is where residents can relax and enjoy a chat and a cuppa, watch a movie, enjoy lunch with friends or participate in the Activate program,” Ms Jackson said.

INGENIA

When you join the community at Ingenia Gardens Port Macquarie, you’ll have the freedom to choose a life that suits you. With a range of accommodation options and lifestyle choices, you can live the worry-free life you’ve always wanted.

GARDENS

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 85 6581 5223 | 12 SHERIFF WAY, PORT MACQUARIE morelearnScanto

“Renting in later years is a great way to enjoy the best of both worlds – maintain your independence whilst enjoying community living,” Ms Jackson said.

Support your way Live your way Rent your way Ingenia Gardens offers a popular alternative for independent seniors by providing the opportunity to experience the benefits of community living without the many up-front costs or complex locked-in contracts common in traditional retirement living options. It provides seniors the freedom of independence and flexibility in a low maintenance unit, with the added benefit of a secure lease, along with the lifestyle, convenience, and safety aspects of belonging to a community.

Activate is our complimentary lifestyle program offered to all residents in Ingenia Gardens communities. It not only promotes social connection amongst our residents but also assists with their cognitive and physical health. The program incorporates regular fun games and activities, special themed lunches, entertainers, bus trips, charity events, special celebrations and informative talks. Residents and Community Manager feedback is incorporated into yearly planning of Activate, ensuring there is plenty of variety and fun for everyone.

At the heart of each Ingenia Gardens village is the Community Room which hosts regular activities and events throughout the year.

A waynewof life.

“Many of the activities in the program have been put forward as suggestions by our residents which ensures we have a fun and varied Ifschedule.”socialconnection, low maintenance living and the freedom of independence appeals to you, then contact our Community Manager Keiron to arrange your private tour – call Ingenia Gardens Port Macquarie on 6581 5223 or visit ingeniagardens.com.au to discover more. offers community and social connectivity...

Made just for you.

Considering aged care for a loved one?

Through our range of permanent and respite aged care services, we are committed to helping people realise their wellbeing goals and lead meaningful lives.

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With almost 30 years’ experience, we know what it takes to care for someone you love. At Regis, we focus on every person as an individual so we can provide the best possible care and help them find the smile in every day.

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To find out more about our community in Port Macquarie, call us on 1300 998 100 or visit regis.com.au Regis Port Macquarie 10 Sherwood Road, Port NSWMacquarie2444 SCAN HERE TO MACQUARIEREGISDISCOVERPORT regis.com.au 998 100

Welcome to Regis

Port Macquarie

Considering aged care for a loved one?

Through our range of permanent and respite aged care services, we are committed to helping people realise their wellbeing goals and lead meaningful lives.

Welcome to Regis Port Macquarie

Months of planning and discussions with the Lifestyle team were involved in the lead-up to the outing, with the team first gauging interest from residents. From there, residents were divided into groups based on which koalas they wished to see to ensure everyone was able to make the most out of theResidentstrip.

raved about this wonderful and unique activity, which allowed them to get out and about in the community, as well as appreciate works of art in an incredible environment. The outings also offered the opportunity to create conversation between residents as they discussed the sculptures and shared their opinions about the meanings of the displays.

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“I love seeing the different names and colours of the koalas and looking at how they fit into the area they are located,” adds Jeanette after visiting Athena & Poseidon at SailsWithResort.38of the lovingly hand-painted koalas visited already, the residents of Regis Port Macquarie are yearning to continue the trail.“It’s interesting how different each of the artists are. It’s wonderful and I’m really enjoying going to see them,” says resident Alice.Regis Port Macquarie resident, Arthur was drawn to a Flying Fifie sculpture covered in butterflies. In his younger years, Arthur bred butterflies, and is now one of the many fascinating personalities currently residing at the Home. The outing was a fantastic experience for Arthur as he recalled a rush of wonderful recollections. Reconnecting residents to core life memories is a goal for the Lifestyle team who strive to create the best possible experience for residents. Discussions were aplenty on the journey back to the Home between residents and employees. Debates about the interpretation of the artworks had the conversation flowing as residents highlighted their favourite sculptures.

A group of local aged care residents have a newfound love for community art after embarking on the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. Residents from Regis Port Macquarie aim to discover the 83+ individually designed one-metre high Hello Koalas sculptures across the Port Macquarie district.

REGIS HELLO KOALAS SCULPTURE TRAIL -

“There are so many of them and we get to visit places around the community,” explains Chris. Being part of the local community is extremely important to the residents at Regis Port Macquarie. It provides them the opportunity to create new memories, build strong bonds, and enjoy their passions and hobbies.Located a short drive from the gorgeous Lake Innes Nature Reserve, Regis Port Macquarie provides a warm and nurturing environment and delivers exceptional care. Their Home boasts gorgeous gardens and shady verandas which offer idyllic spots to read a book or socialise with friends and family.The dedicated team on hand in the Home work tirelessly to ensure the health and wellbeing of residents is met. Fun and stimulating activities are a daily staple which keep residents engaged and allow for the development of new skills and hobbies. Residents keep in touch with the community with regular and varied outings, and activities inside the Home are motivating andRegisinteresting.offersa diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year. Find out more about their care options by calling 1300 998 100 or visit regis.com.au

For a more personal experience, the curators of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail have agreed to have the red ‘Santa Koala’ positioned in the foyer of the aged care residence in December. The residents say they are looking forward to decorating the piece with tinsel, baubles, and a Santa hat!

Rainbow Beach. A whole new life. Over-50s living on the Mid North Coast. New homes now selling. GemLife.com.au/grb GemLife offers luxury resort-style living with premium lifestyle facilities on your doorstep. No entry fees, exit fees or stamp duty Friendly community Pets CallAgeing-in-placeRetainOptionalLuxuryExtensiveGatedwelcomeneighbourhoodpremiumfacilitieshomescaravanandboatstorage*yourcapitalgainsolutions 1800 718 413 *Conditions apply.

COLUMN with SOPHIE KNIGHT focus contributor. JUST BETTER CARE - IN-HOME SUPPORT FOR AGED CARE & DISABILITIES KELLY LEAH

Just Better Care Mid North Coast provides in-home aged care and disability support services, supporting people to live independently. Since our inception, we’ve been empowering our customers by putting individual preferences and support needs at the centre of our approach. Our staff take the time to get to know you, identifying the best ways to support you in achieving your goals. We never compromise on quality. We deliver the services you want, when and how you want Withthem.over 15 years’ experience in the inhome support sector for Aged Care and Disabilities, Leah is knowledgeable and passionate about the changing landscape of Aged Care and Disability support in Australia. In 2018, Leah brought her experience, values and passion to a local level and opened Just Better Care Mid North Coast Tell us a bit more about Just Better Care Mid North Coast. Just Better Care Mid North Coast is a local Aged and Disability support provider. We provide support to people in their homes and communities under the Aged Care Home Care Package program, NDIS and private funded services. My role as Director is to lead and support a team who are passionate about providing quality care and support to people in our communities. What is the most rewarding part of your role? The diversity of people we encounter every day. Everyone has a story, both clients and the support team. We have clients who have so much life experience and staff who devote time in their personal lives to causes that are important to them. No day is the same and every week you learn something new. It really does keep your own life in perspective. What are some of the challenges that you face in your day-to-day life and how do you overcome these? The dreaded work life balance! We welcomed twins in October last year; along with an energetic 5 year old has definitely been a challenge. Luckily I have a fantastic team who are truly amazing people – everyone is focused on providing a quality and caring service. If I need to be with my family, I know the team, both in the office and in the community, are working together to ensure we deliver a fantastic service. What tips, tricks or advice do you have for people who are caring for family members? Having a good understanding of what is important to your loved one is one of the most important conversations you can have. If you need to act on their behalf, knowing how they want their life journey to continue is key. It also helps us immensely in providing care and support which is meaningful for your loved one. In your opinion, what is the best part of home care offerings at Just Better Care that makes your services stand out from other providers? We are a local provider with an office in Short Street and have a boutique approach to our care management and support. Everyone in the office knows what we do and how we support people, so when anyone calls we can respond quickly. We all work as a team to ensure we help everyone whatever their question is. What qualities make an excellent support professional and how do you learn these? Compassion, warmth and an easy-going attitude. The most challenging part of being a support professional is that every day will be different and you need to be able to adapt quickly. We have a great program to support new staff in the industry so they can upskill and buddy with other staff to feel more confident in the role they do. It is important for us that the right staff, with the right skills are matched with our clients.

Leah’s Contacts justbettercare.com0265901060leah.kelly@justbettercare.com

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Catherine

HEAD OF THE NATURE SCHOOL

Catherine, your joy and energy for sharing your love of nature, education and life is palpable – can you share your journey to your current role as Head of The Nature School? Where did it all begin? I’m not sure where it really began. Perhaps as a child who loved wildflowers and stories. Perhaps as a young teacher who wanted to make a difference. Perhaps as a mother, challenged by everything I thought I knew about education once I had my own children. It all aligns for me at The Nature School. How did you traverse the jump from a city based private school teacher to being at the helm of the Nature School with an earth and science focus? It was a huge transition, involving more than just switching Sydney heels for hiking boots! As the founding Head of The Nature School there was so much to learn and a huge body of work to be created to ensure a high standard of curriculum and compliance. There was also much to unlearn as we sought to pioneer something new in education. It’s so easy to do things the way they’ve always been done without questioning why. The nature aspect was pure delight. Taking students into the bush for the first time, helping them to identify species of birds, felt like coming home.

What are the pinnacle or pivotal moments that have marked or changed the course of your career? There have been a few significant moments. In hindsight, I recall the first time I heard the term “nature pedagogy” when my own daughter was in preschool. I read widely about it, connected with global leaders in the field, and wrote many articles about young children and nature play, risky play, and all-weather play. I could never have known then that I would one day lead a school like The Nature School. A recent pinnacle moment for me was being named a finalist for Australian Primary Principal of the (non-government).YearI was so proud to represent a small, regional school doing things differently, and be recognised for doing it well. How has your leadership style evolved from those early days until now? When we opened in 2018 we were a tiny school with just 2 staff and 22 students. Now in our fifth year we have almost 120 students

92 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus with KATE WOOD-FOYE Illuminate THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Catherine Shaw radiates a passion for life, education and nature that is both magnetic and infectious. Across the last five years Catherine has been at helm of The Nature School (TNS) purposively and passionately guiding young hearts and minds through their primary years with the natural world at the heart of their learning. Wildflowers, hiking, birdwatching and the famed TNS Adventure Days are a far cry from her former life at an inner city private school. It seems fortune favours the bold and in 2023 Catherine will embark on the next leg of her leadership journey as TNS launches their much awaited secondary school.

The aspectnaturewas pure delight. Taking students into the bush for the first time, helping them to identify species of birds, felt like coming home.

After initially holding everything myself, it takes time to learn to let go and delegate to others. I’m so grateful for our staff. Not only do they help to share the load, but they constantly teach me how to be a leader they want to follow. You are a mentor for many through your leading role at the school, to both adults and children in your school and broader community. How important are mentors in your journey and what is the most valuable lesson they have taught you? I am deeply appreciative of the mentors in my life. I have a professional supervisor who coaches me in work, life, faith, family and getting the balance right.

“I appreciate you,” is a phrase I say often to staff and students – and I mean it. I’m grateful for who they are and for what they bring to our learning community. People don’t care how much you know unless they know how much you care. I strive to be easy to work with, and never ask anyone to do a task that I wouldn’t do myself. What is your relationship with risk? How critical has it been to you professional and your journey as a leader and an educator? When I left my comfortable position at a Sydney school, a colleague gave me a bracelet inscribed with the quote: “What if I fall?” “Oh but my darling, what if you fly?” As an educational leader I’ve learned to embrace reasonable risk and do brave things. We teach our students how to do brave things like climbing trees by assessing the risks and implementing mitigation strategies, because we believe in the benefits. Similarly, it’s been important for me to make some professionally brave choices, but by identifying, assessing, and mitigating the risks we get to experience the benefits. How integral is your team to delivering on The Nature School Mission? Our mission is to create a community where children learn and shine through authentic experiences in nature to become engaged global citizens. No one person can build a community. It takes a team, and our team is nothing short of incredible. We have a brilliant Business Manager. Passionate educators. Caring support staff. A dedicated Board of Directors. Wonderful volunteers. Each person brings something unique to the community. What has been your biggest challenge in your own professional journey?

I also have experienced mentor Principals who I connect with when facing professional challenges. The best lesson they’ve taught me? You have two ears and one mouth. Listen twice as much as you speak. What do feel are the ingredients for meaningful leadership that drives a positive workplace and outcomes for the school and your students ? As a leader of any workplace I think you set the atmosphere. Perhaps I’m idealistic, but I think school should be a place where students want to be and teachers want to work! Because of that, I greet every student, every day with a smile and a “Good morning!” I’m genuinely glad to see them and want them to be reassured that each day is a fresh start with a positive beginning. I place a high priority on relationships.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 93 and 20 staff, and we’re still growing. Next year we open The Nature School Secondary!

I place a high priority appreciaterelationships.on“Iyou,” is a phrase I say often to staff and students and I mean it. I’m grateful for who they are and for what they bring to our learning community.

I think the biggest challenge has been proving that a robust academic program can coexist with nature-based pedagogy, and that learning isn’t compromised, but actually enhanced. What is the hardest lesson you have learned in life and business? The work is never done. Do everything you can in a day and let go of what you can’t. How important is connection to nature and family in being able to lead from the front and give your best? I have two awesome teenagers and a wonderful husband. Time with them, particularly chasing birds or waterfalls, is my perfect weekend recharge. Even though I’m blessed with my dream job, being a mother and wife is my most important role. What advice would you give someone taking a leap of faith into a new leadership role and a new environment? Know your why. It will drive your direction, carry you through the hard days, and draw others into your vision. Catherinecatherine@tns.nsw.edu.auShaw

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group!HowtogiveyourfavouritecommunityopenaRegionalAustraliaBanktransactionandasktobeapartofourCommunityPartnershipProgram!

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

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.

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1 Transaction account means a Youth, eFree or Community Partnership Account. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. See Fees & Charges located at www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au for full details. Please refer to the Target Market Determination and Account and Access Facility Conditions of Use located at www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au, when considering if these products are right for you. This information is current as at 21/06/2022 and is subject to change at anytime. Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 241167. This unique program assists your favourite community group by giving them a bonus payment (equivalent to 0.75% of your average annual savings balance)!

132 067 regionalaustraliabank.com.au account means a Youth, eFree or Community Partnership Account. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. See Fees & www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au for full details. Please refer to the Target Market Determination and Account and Access Facility Conditions www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au, when considering if these products are right for you. This information is current as at 21/06/2022 and Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 241167.

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noted that since the commencement of the Family Law Act in 1975, the concept of fault with respect to divorce had been abolished. Therefore, the question of who actually breaks a contract with respect to a marriage is one that is not relevant at law. The Magistrate also noted that, in the modern world, a gift of an engagement ring should be now seen, like other gifts, as given absolutely. He said ”Many gifts are given in happy times and with

The answer to the above question depends, like many legal issues, on all the circumstances of the case. The context in which a person has agreed to something (and in particular if it was in a domestic commercialorsetting) may be a consideration.vital

PROMISES. PROMISES. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BREACH THEM?

Theytoinbelievedrings.theTheengagementorderitisSometimesoptimism.thatoptimismborneout,sometimesisn’t.”Herefusedtothereturnofthering.secondquestionwasfateoftheweddingTheMagistratethattheywereadifferentcategorytheengagementring.wereboughtbythe intended husband and given to his ex-fiancée for safe keeping until the wedding and she was holding them for him on that basis. Therefore, the Court ordered that the wedding rings be returned.

FROM PRIEST LEGAL with ALAN PRIEST LEGAL Light focus contributor.

Some consequences of the breach of a contract are determined by looking at the provisions of an Act of Parliament whereas others are controlled by the term of the written agreement of the parties concerned. Others are resolved by a decision made by a court after listening to all the evidence. In 1961, the Marriage Act abolished the right to seek compensation by the jilted party for breach of promise to marry. However, the Marriage Act did not abolish the right to recover gifts given by one party to the other in contemplation of Inmarriage.arelatively

In a similar case, the happy couple exchanged rings at their engagement party but 10 days later the relationship was on the rocks because the woman changed her mind and the intended marriage was abandoned. The ring given to the woman had cost the male $15,250. She had thrown it out with the rubbish. The Court decided that the ring had been a conditional gift which would only become her property after the marriage took place. As she could not return the ring, she was ordered to pay compensation and legal Althoughcosts.these cases are novel, they are a reminder of the different categories of legal relationships that can be created through an exchange of property. The fact that a person agrees to something does not necessarily mean that they have an intention to form a contractual relationship. The context in which a person has agreed to something (and in particular if it was in a domestic or commercial setting) may be a vital consideration. At Priest Legal, we have the experience and expertise to advise you in relation to any contractual matters whether the contract is formal or informal.

recent Local Court case, the issue was the fate of the engagement ring and wedding rings purchased by the jilted intended husband and given to the intended bride before the proposed marriage was called off. He wanted them returned to him and she wanted to keep them. The first question was whether an engagement ring is a conditional gift that is to be returned if the parties fail to get married. The court noted that the answer to this question is still Theunresolved.Magistrate

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• The Wayne Richards Sporting Scholarship –ages 13 to 21 years

In 2015, Sunrise Rotary joined forces with Port Macquarie Hastings Council to incorporate the Wayne Richards Sporting Scholarship presentation into the Sports Awards. The scholarship was established in 2004 in recognition of the late Wayne Richards, previous Mayor, and great supporter of junior sport across the region.

• Donovan Oates Hannaford Senior Team of the Year – over 18 years

• Patterson Real Estate Junior Team of the Year – 18 years and under

• Hastings Physio and Health Sporting Volunteer of the Year – all ages

• Regional Australia Bank Excellence Awards – at the discretion of the judges with nominees from all other categories eligible. Nominations are from all sports. Our experienced team of independent judges, from a broad range of sports, review every nomination to select our award winners. Nominations are now open, and will close on Friday 30th September. What is the process for nominating someone? We are excited to see the Port Macquarie Hastings Sport Awards are back this year after the disruptions of the past couple of years. Nominations are open now and winners will be announced in October, so Jenny Sinclair has given us all the details on the Awards and how to nominate.

• Donovan Oates Hannaford Junior Sportsperson of the Year – High School age

Can you tell us about the Port Macquarie Hastings Sport Awards and how they came about?

Tell us about previous winners who have gone on to impressive sporting careers?

• Greenmeadows Health Centre Sportsperson of the Year – all ages

sportspeopleRegional and their families often travel far and wide to compete in their chosen sports, the Sports Awards provides opportunityan to come together to celebrate a year of sport.

Ryley Batt, OAM, five-time Olympian, has been involved in the Sports Awards from the early years, first as a nominee, an award winner, judge, motivational speaker and continues to support the Awards each year. The Sports Awards provide an opportunity for our community to recognise many young sportspeople in the early stages of their careers, including international and national champions James Magnussen (swimming), Lauren Kitchen (cycling), Shelley Watts (boxing), Anna Gleeson (touch football) and more recently Rohan Nosworthy (sailing). Tell us about different categories for the awards, and who is eligible for each?

• Laing + Simmons Port Macquarie Sportsperson with a Disability – all ages

JENNY S I N C L A I R

The Sports Awards recognise individuals and team achievementssportsfrom 1 October 2021 to 30 September 2022. There are awards covering all ages including:

•

AusSport Scoreboards Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Primary School age

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The Port Macquarie Hastings Sports Awards commenced in 2000 by the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Sunrise (Sunrise Rotary) to encourage participation in sport and recognise local sportspeople for their achievements.

PORT MACQUARIE HASTINGS SPORTS AWARDS

The Sports Awards provide a platform to acknowledge and recognise the achievements of our local sportspeople and the contribution of volunteers, who are the backbone of local sport. Each nominee will receive a certificate of achievement and award winners will receive a cash prize, kindly donated by our sponsors. Each individual nominee will be invited to attend, receiving a complimentary breakfast, with teams receiving a complimentary breakfast for two members of the team. Regional sportspeople and their families travel far and wide to compete, the Sports Awards provide an opportunity to come together to celebrate a year of sport. What has the feedback been like from past nominees and winners?

People can nominate for the Port Macquarie Hastings Sports Awards and Wayne Richards Sporting Scholarship online at https://sunriserotary.org.au/sportsawardsYouwillneedtoprovide the nominee contact details and a summary of their sporting achievements over the last twelve months. All nominees and the winners will be recognised at a Presentation breakfast on 25 October, can you tell us about it?

Over the years, many of our past winners have returned to speak at the Sports Awards, fondly remembering their time competing locally across the region. Sport has been disrupted the last couple of years, how does it feel to again be able to recognise local athletes’ and volunteers’ achievements? And why is it such an important event for our community?

Bushfires, floods and a pandemic, local sport has been hit hard in recent years. These disruptions have highlighted how important local sport is in bringing our community together for social connection and encouraging physical activity. Sunrise Rotary and the Mayor’s Sporting Fund are excited to deliver the Sports Awards program this year and are looking forward to reading the nominations as each one is inspiring and showcases the commitment, capability, and sportsmanship of local athletes. We also love to receive nominations recognising our sporting volunteers; many volunteers have been riding the rollercoaster of disruption while trying to keep their clubs running and people engaged in sport, now is the time to say “thank you” and nominate those who are working behind the scenes. Where can people get more information on the awards or nominate someone? People can find more information and nominate for the Port Macquarie Hastings Sports Awards and Wayne Richards Sporting Scholarship online at: sunrise-rotary.org.au/sportsawards

The Sports Awards Presentation breakfast is a wonderful community event, where over 200 people gather to recognise all nominees and award winners. We start welcoming nominees and guests to Panthers from 6.45am with the formal presentation from 7am. For each Award category, we invite nominees up to the podium to receive their certificate of achievement and our wonderful sponsors announce the winners.

The Presentation breakfast is a highlight for nominees and winners, it is a social morning, providing an opportunity for people from all sports to celebrate their achievements together.

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It all wraps up by 8.30am so everyone can head off to school and work on time. How might the winners and nominees benefit from being involved in the PMHSA?

All funds used to support students come from local sponsors and from fundraising. It is about locals helping locals. Sponsors are guaranteed that 100 percent of their sponsorship money goes to the grant recipients. Local residents, who share a belief in the power of education and training to change lives, are encouraged to consider becoming part of the HEF family by becoming a sponsor or a donor. Further information is available on the HEF page of the Country Education Foundation of Australia website https://cef.org.au/foundations/hastings

HEF has established an ‘emergency fund’ designed to provide students with financial assistance in an emergency. Students impacted by Covid, floods, the bush fires or other crises can apply to the fund for special emergency financial assistance.

EMERGENCY FUND

The committee members (pictured above) bring to the Hastings Education Fund significant experience in government and non-government schooling, TAFE and in the higher education sector as well as experience in business, finance, health and hospitality. All are volunteers who share a commitment to helping school leavers achieve their further education and career goals.

Over the past eleven years

Applicants must be aged between 16 and 25 and live in the Hastings area. To be awarded a grant students need to demonstrate that they: 1. Have a need for financial support 2. Are committed to a further education course to help them achieve their career goal and 3. Plan to commence their further education or training program next year.

Help comes in the form of non-cash grants which students can use to cover education and training related costs such as text books, technology equipment and software, course fees, specialised clothing, equipment and so on.

• The Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Scholarship in memory of the legendary Rotarian, Laurie Barber. This is a new scholarship to be awarded to a student studying an allied health course at Charles Sturt University, Port Macquarie campus.

• The very dedicated Management Committee of volunteers who liaise with sponsors, organise fundraising and oversee the selection of grant recipients, the disbursement of grants and continuing support for students

ELIGIBILITY FOR A COMMENCEMENT GRANT

• The John and Kay Burman Scholarship

In addition to commencement grants, the Hastings Education Fund has generous sponsors who fund three continuing scholarships. These are awarded to applicants who have received a commencement grant and have successfully completed the first year of their chosen course.

SUPPORT FOR HEF

• The Lewis Land Scholarship and

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In recent years

• The Country Education Foundation of Australia, the auspicing body who provide our DGR status and administrative support.

To apply students need to go to the Country Education Foundation of Australia website, click on ‘apply for a grant’ and complete the online application.Students are encouraged to attach supporting documentation which demonstrates their need for support and their commitment to their chosen course. Recipients are selected after a shortlisting process and a panel interview. Academic merit is not a significant criteria as long as a student has the capacity to meet the requirements of the course they have chosen.

Commencement Grant Recipients 2022

HEF IS A PARTNERSHIP

DREAM-BELIEVE-ACHIEVE

Up to thirty grants for post-secondary education courses are available each year to eligibleApplicationsstudents.close on September 30.

The HEF motto, ‘dream-believe-achieve’, challenges school leavers to have dreams and to believe in themselves. The HEF partners demonstrate their belief in the students by helping them in a very practical way by providing them with financial assistance to help them achieve their dreams.

HOW HEF HELPS

The great success of HEF over the past eleven years comes from an excellent partnership. The partners include:

• Generous sponsors who provide the committee with the resources needed to assist students•The Career Advisors in the local schools who work closely with HEF and encourage eligible students to apply for grants and

HOW TO APPLY

The three continuing scholarships are:

CONTINUING SCHOLARSHIPS

the Hastings Education Fund (HEF) has assisted over 300 school leavers in the Port Macquarie Hastings local government area to access further education and training opportunities at universities, TAFE and approved private colleges. Many former grant recipients are now graduates living their dream by working in their chosen profession or trade.

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE HASTINGS Education FUND

THE HEF COMMITTEE

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 99 HEF SPONSORS LIST Continuing Education Sponsors 2022 John & Kay Burman Lewis Land Group Diamond Sponsors ($5000 +) John & Kay Burman Hunt Hospitality Dr Kristian Prados Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Rotary Club of Port Macquarie West Damian Scodellaro Geoff & Lynn Slack Sovereign Hills Sales HEF Golf Day Port Macquarie Golf Club James Single (Head Golf Professional) Platinum Sponsors (over $1000, under $5000) Monica NevilleDrPortDavidMenLauiretonHastingsEldersCompassDrBrothersBirdonBennettsAtkinsonSteelGroupinNeedBrendaCampbellFinancialManagementLifestyleGroupValleyFineArtAssoc.BonnyHillsUnitingChurchandWomenAtWorkPlewsMacquarieLionsClubChrisProwseRamm Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Sunrise TheFriendship Club Tierney Property Services Gold Sponsors ($1,000) Peter & Carole Briscoe Charles Sturt University Commercial Project Group Corben Family Debbie Moore Real Estate Donovan Oates Hannaford Expressway Spares Frumar Family Grigg HastingsAdvisoryBusiness Women’s Network Hastings Co-op Hastings Data Loggers Hastings Secondary Schools Peter & Cate Hearle Dr Deon Heyns Impact Environmental Inner Wheel Club of Port Macquarie West Kendall Community Op Shop Kevin Debreceny Real Estate Julie MacquarieMcLeodBusiness Accountants Master Builders Assoc. Oxley Division Mid Coast Connect Miedecke Motor Group Mount Seaview Natural Spring Water Oxley Insurance Brokers Port Macquarie-Hastings Council John & Helen Ross OAM Rotary Club of Wauchope Rotary Youth Leader Awards Chris & Robyn Simmonds Peta Simmons (Helen Glenn Memorial AwardStMusic)Agnes Parish Schools The Style Vibe John LeslieWauchopeRichardTurnerVellaVets&DonWilliams In Kind Sponsors Cassegrain Wines HarveyFOCUS Norman Technology and Entertainment J&H Travel & Tours Anne Johnston Photography Optus Port Macquarie Port News Port TripleMSnapSaxbysPanthersPrintingMidNorth Coast & Hit Mid North Coast Radio The Hastings Education Fund also wishes to express our gratitude to other donors who have donated funds, their time and raffle prizes throughout the year. The HEF Management Committee Continuing Scholarship Recipients with donors John and Kay Burman

At PortBusinessMacquarie we are looking at running a interestforandmentoringbusinesscoursearelookingexpressionsof from the business community to take part.

100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES VOICE focus contributor.

Starting with our networking evening on Tuesday, 27 September where we will have Trevor Groeneveld from Thrumster Business Park discussing the new and exciting precinct coming to Port Macquarie. The precinct will include a medical precinct, light industry including a bakery and micro brewery, as well as heavier Alsoindustry.incorporated in this area is an incredible green space. With many businesses owned by mum and dad operators I know first hand how hard it can be when you have kids home in the school holidays and keeping them busy. This space lends itself to an area where kids can play and ride bikes, but also staff can sit in a lovely area to have lunch. Something that has been missing from past industrial/business areas and I think has been a fantastic forward thinking idea to incorporate. Really looking forward to hearing more about this space and what else is in store. It is this time of year that we also start planning for Christmas and New Year. I can’t update you on festivities for Christmas as yet as we are still in consultation of the annual event, hopefully with a resolution soon. In regard to New Years Eve, I am excited to let you know that Business Port Macquarie has been able to secure the services of All Occasion Pyrotechnics to ensure that this year we as a community can bring in the New Year with a bang! Through the generous sponsorship of one Port Macquarie Business (to be announced very soon) we have locked in the midnight fireworks and we are currently working with a number of other businesses to ensure that we can also deliver a 9pm family fireworks. If you would like to know how your business can be involved with this fantastic community event please call either Katherine on 0422 562 300 or myself on 0414 772 771. As I write this, the Board of Business Port Macquarie are due to meet with Federal member Pat Conaghan, Mayor Peta Pinson, Deputy Mayor Adam Roberts & CEO Dr Clare Allen. On our agenda we will be includinginfrastructurediscussingintheareasewerage,water & roads to ensure that the area can cater for the future and the demands and growth of business in the area. We are excited to hear that the contract for Ocean Drive has been awarded to Ditchfield Contracting for the $111 million duplication with works due to start this half of the year. This is a joint venture between State government and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. If your business has any questions or issues you would like us to speak with Federal, State or Council representatives on, please call our office so we can ensure that we are advocating on your behalf. Are you interested in learning more about getting the most out of running your business and updating your business skills? At Business Port Macquarie we are looking at running a business mentoring course and are looking for expressions of interest from the communitybusinesstotake part. Register your interest by emailing BusinessFinally,businesspmq.com.auexecutive@wehaveourjointPortMacquarie & Westpac Rescue Helicopter Golf Day at Wauchope Golf Club on Friday, 28 October. Go to our website to register. If you would like to know more about joining us at Business Port Macquarie please visit our website at www.businessportmacquarie.com.au or contact Katherine at the office. Quote for the month – Despite the forecast, live like it’s Spring! Lily Pulitzer Spring is known as the season of new beginnings and at Business Port Macquarie we are looking at many fresh and new opportunities to bring your way.

Abode PROPERTY GUIDE GREATER PORT MACQUARIE PERRY HOMES DISPLAY VILLAGE SOVEREIGN HILLS

SOVEREIGN HILLS ANCHOR YOUR HOME’S THEME. MOOD BOARDS BY ADENBROOK HOMES

102 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus You’ve saved your deposit and you’re ready to choose your first new home design. Your building budget is tight. So where do you start?

The Nova features the master suite at the front and separate bedroom wing at the rear, with the open plan living/kitchen/dining area overlooking the alfresco.

Hibbard’s turnkey price includes Essastone benchtops, stainless steel fittings and appliances in the kitchen, fencing and turf, as well as a simplified selections process. Double the options with a duplex design

PERRY HOMES’ STYLISH CARLTON KITCHEN DISPLAY VILLAGE

The York Street display home features standard inclusions such as the brick exterior and tiled roof, Laminex benchtops and cupboards, and tiles to the living and wet areas. Clever upgrades bring the build cost on a near level block of land to approximately $350,000 (as at August 2022).

York Street, Port Macquarie, of course, where each Sovereign Hills Display Village builder’s design range includes exciting options for first home buyers. This month, we explore some of these designs and showcase how to inject your personality into the finished product. Get your foot in the door Perry Homes’ entry level design is the Carlton 22 (201.8m2). This functional 4-bedroom, 2-living, 2-garage design can be customised to suit your budget.

Hibbard Homes’ Nova 219, on York Street, offers four bedrooms and three living areas with a layout that’s proving popular with first home buyers.

Rob Tate Family Homes has experienced unprecedented interest in duplex designs and it’s not just investors who are keen to build No matter your bank balance, you need not compromise on style

Take the property plunge. This month’s Style Series offers inspiration and information to help you dive in.

It’s no secret the rising costs of living and building a new home have made it more difficult for prospective homeowners.new

PYCON HOMES AND CONSTRUCTIONS’ WARATAH DISPLAY COHESIVE STYLING INSPIRATION

Thefaçade.addition of exterior cladding, feature stone or timber (all optional with the pictured Hotondo Homes’ Tallis design) is a worthwhile investment which shouldn’t tip you over your budget if factored in from the start.

Create an anchor theme for smooth sailing later Selecting your home’s colour palette allows you to stamp your personal style on your Yourabode.builder’s interior stylist will help you choose everything from your paint shade, benchtops and cupboards, through to your exterior finish, roof and garage door colour. This consultation process will also keep your selections within budget.

- Add greenery. House plants can be grown from cuttings, and work wonders bringing vibrancy to the home.

- Thoroughly research affordable décor alternatives before you buy, avoiding impulse purchases.

Want more style tips? Check out the new Sovereign Hills Styleinspired!andScanSeriesherebe

ROB TATE FAMILY HOMES IS EXPERIENCING UNPRECEDENTED INTEREST IN DUPLEX DESIGNS

- DIY. Upcycle pre-loved furniture items with a lick of paint.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 103 “two homes for the price of one”. Their Sanremo duplex design on York Street comprises two adjoining 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-garage designs, facing two separate streets, fitted out with standard and upgraded inclusions.

Cash positive “mum and dad” clients are enquiring about building this housing style to accommodate adult children in one dwelling and renters in the neighbouring property to create a revenue stream. Add wow factor to your facade Never underestimate the importance of street presence when choosing your home’s

Interior Style Tips - Choose a style and stick with it.

- Less is more. Try to avoid over-crowding your fresh space, ensuring your beautiful new home remains the star. The Sovereign Hills Display Village builders are ready to help you with your first home. Enquire today. York Street, Sovereign Hills sovereignhills.com.au HOTONDO HOMES’ TALLIS FAÇADE OPTION

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established. Hi Kristen. Tell us a little about your home and lifestyle business Established. Hi, we are a boutique homewares store in downtown, lovely Laurieton. We are passionate about helping people create stylish, comfortable spaces in their home with unique feature pieces that are functional and affordable. We also stock a wide range of home décor, as well as specialty gift and lifestyle products. The store carries a relaxed atmosphere when you walk in. What are you seeing trend-wise for the new Spring season ahead? We are still seeing a lot of soft curves, rattan furnishings and neutral, earthy tones and textures. There is a real spike in the trend of Moroccan shapes and shell inlay feature pieces. For those who love a pop of colour, we are also seeing some fun tropical prints coming through for the warmer seasons ahead! Can you tell us about some of the product ranges you carry? We try to source unique Australian products wherever possible, and our favourites would definitely have to be our gorgeous Blackbutt timber dining tables, which were designed and made by local craftsman, Josh Cullen. We also love our locally made Lovelight Co. crystal infused candles, beach and lifestyle products from Beach Life Crescent Head, as well as our stunning handmade jewellery ranges, ‘Golden Jae’ polymer clay earrings and ‘Girl with a Local husband and wife team Peter and Kristen Curry have opened a destination store in Laurieton WITH A LOVE OF COASTAL AND RELAXED LIFESTYLE IN MIND. Pearl’ freshwater pearl jewellery – which is made in our home town of Mudgee! There really is something for everyone! For people wanting to engage with your services or find out more about Established, how can they best get in touch? We encourage people to visit us instore to see and touch (and smell!) our beautiful range of products. We are also available by phone, email or direct message on social media during trading hours.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 107 home x design

HANGS UP HIS BOOTS

Cameron and Luke are now the new owners of Bristol and I’m sure will carry on this great business and customer service. Jarad is the backbone of the business and looks after all our customers their orders and enquiries. Tell us about products and services that our readers may not know you offer? Our most popular 4 brands are: Taubmans Paint. Australian made, has your paint needs covered for interior and exterior projects and a colour range you'll love! Haymes. Over 1000 different colour shades, created to capture upcoming design trends and inspire through colour. Bristol. Since 1938, the Bristol commitment to provide premium paints and expert advice has not Nutechwavered.RoofPaint. Designed to withstand the tough Australian environment, protecting and enhancing the appearance of your most valued asset. What does a typical day look like for you? We open the shop at 6.30am, mixing paint and getting orders ready for tradies. Colour matching, customer enquiries, and making sure our stock is ready for customers. With spring upon us, what is your advice for repainting the home or outdoors entertainment area? Street appeal is important especially if you are getting your house ready to sell. We can help, with an in-store colour consultant available, and paint sample pots. The biggest trend lately is the Hamptons style, using all of your basic whites. So the time has come, you are hanging up the boots. What are you looking forward to and what will you miss the most? That is correct, it’s time to move on. Bristol Paints Port Macquarie is in great hands with young fresh heads in Cameron and Luke. Jarad will stay on as our friendly customer service guy and he has been the backbone of the store so I’m not at all concerned.

I’m really looking forward to travelling around Australia and overseas. We are actually wanting to live abroad for a little while, which will be heaps of fun and I can’t wait for that to all happen. Of course, first we need to finish the renovation of the house that was affected by the recent floods. I’m going to miss the chit chat and the stories that my customers tell me all about. I could write a book and I’m sure it would be a best seller. On behalf of Joy and myself, I want to thank all our customer, builders and trades that have supported us over the last 27 years. I have made some great mates and I’ll see you around somewhere. Thanks Terry. The time has come, after 27 years Terry is “hanging up the boots” at Bristol Port Macquarie.

Hi Terry, congratulations on your retirement. You have owned and operated Bristol Paints for 27 years. What are the biggest changes you have seen over the years in the industry? I managed the store from 1996, and then bought the business in 1998. Time flies when you’re having fun! A big change has been customers using the internet for inspiration for colours and ideas. Colour matching has improved out of sight and mobile colour matching is really handy. Home renovation shows, such as The Block, have lifted the game for customers renovating or building their homes. Paint quality is the biggest change with low odour, environmentally friendly and Anti Mould. How has your store grown and changed? What are you most proud of? In 27 years we have seen it all. Drought, fire, 3 floods, interest rates high low and high again and then Covid. We were lucky to have huge growth during Covid. We have also had lots of new products come into the market such as roof paint and wallpaper which has made a huge comeback. I am most proud of the relationships I have made – some trades and builders have been with me the whole 27 years and the friendships I have made I am very thankful for. But a business isn’t possible without staff and I have some of the best. Necia and Dave were with me for 13 years and I think they had one sick day between them. You have a great team at Bristol, can you introduce them to us?

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 109

THE MID NORTH COAST’S PREMIER RESIDENTIAL AND DOOR FOR OVER 25 YEARS

COMMERCIAL GARAGE

MID

DOOR SERVICES

AND GATE SUPPLIER

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Mid Coast Door Services have been the Mid North Coast’s premier residential commercialandgarage door and gate supplier for over 30 years. Our company is committed to providing a professional and high-quality service. We strive to give our customers the best experience in the region. Mid Coast Doors and its sister Company Dorvik come under the Bright Industrial Group banner and is a second-generation family owned and run business. Mid Coast Doors have a wide range of services and products, what are some of your best selling/most popular products at the moment? We supply and install a large range of garage door and opener systems for a variety of applications, including domestic garage doors and automatic gates, industrial and commercial systems, car park systems, access control systems, shutters and grills, as well as all your structural steel fabrication, aluminium, and concreting products.

- COAST -

But without a doubt Mid Coast Doors’ most exciting new innovation is our new B&D To You mobile showroom. The B&D To You mobile showroom is an exciting new service that you are offering customers and it definitely sets you apart for your competitors. Tell us a bit more about it. From sectional doors to roller doors, the mobile showroom brings the entire touchand-test experience for all of our garage door products right to your driveway. We’ll survey your space, answer any questions you have and, if you’re keen to talk cost, give you an instantDon’tquote.holdup a tiny little paint swatch to your guttering to see if it matches. The mobile showroom brings full size colour and profile samples to your driveway so you can perfectly match your roof, fascia or guttering to your garage door. Can you tell us more about B&D? We are the only B&D Accredited dealer on the Mid North Coast and have been partners with B&D for many years. Back in 1956 B&D invented the first all-steel garage door that could be rolled up and down without cracking. Better known today as the roller door! All of the roller doors in your home garages or businesses started life right near here, over six decades ago in sunny Sydney. That’s why B&D are the perfect partner for Mid Coast Doors. Their products have lasted all this time because they’re exceptional quality. There really are so many options, colours and designs out there now. What new garage door trends are out at the moment? People are starting to realise it’s more than just a garage door, with B&Ds premium range the B&D “Icon” and “Designer Series Range” becoming more popular. We are also seeing a trend towards custom made doors and flush finishing tilt-a-doors to really give the front of your house a “Wow” factor. Timber and wooden looking doors in both roller and sectional doors are having a big moment. Natural timber garage doors have always been a beautiful design element, but the harsh Australian environment means that wooden features age and decay quickly. The good news is you can enjoy the warmth and vibrancy of natural timber without the continual upkeep and maintenance with wooden-look steel garage doors. It’s the best of both Smartworlds!Automation: Technology has come a long way in recent years and that includes garage door openers. Smart Phone Control makes it easy to open and close your garage door from anywhere – using nothing but your smart phone. It can also notify you whenever your garage door is operated or left open for an extended period of time, ensuring that your home is never left vulnerable to wouldbe thieves. You can even open and close your door using Siri or Alexa! How can our readers get in contact with you and your business? Give us a call on (02) 6581 1118 and our friendly team can bring the van to your driveway. Drop in and pay us a visit at 22 Milton Circuit. Or visit us online on midcoastdoors.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 111 P. 02 65811763 E. info@nu-look.com.au nu-look.com.au oxleynulookwindows Effortlessly expand your entertaining area and combine your outdoor and indoor areas with a custom bi-fold window, which can be designed with an integrated insect screen. LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1953 WE SPECIALISE IN: • Sliding doors, multi stacking sliding, and french doors. • Louvres • Security Screens • Commercial Shopfronts Expand areaentertainingyour INSTALLSUPPLYWEAND * * *Photo By Gavin Moroney, and courtesy of Dean Edgar Builders. Master Security License 000106878 MULTIPANEL BI-FOLDS WITH CUSTOM CONFIGURATIONS FOR SERVERIES, PATIOS, AND ENTERTAINING AREAS. FREE MEASURE AND QUOTES

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BEC FARNSWORTH. Director Bec Farnsworth – Mortgage Broker farnsworth_financial How do you go about finding clients the right loan for them; where do you start? We start off with an initial discovery appointment where I work to understand their financial needs and objectives. I then gather documentation in order to get an accurate picture of their financial situation. Once I understand their situation & what’s truly important to them, I research for products that will fit with their specifics & make the recommendations. I have a panel of over 30 lenders to choose from. This gives me the ability to offer tailored lending solutions to a broader range of clients for multiple purposes. Once the client accepts my recommendations, I then submit to the lender and do all the leg work in getting it approved. My services don’t just stop at settlement, I also provide annual loan reviews to make sure the loan products are still meeting their needs.

Introducing

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 106113 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus Bec, tell us about your finance career and what is it you love about what you do? I have over 10 years’ experience working in the finance industry across multiple financial institutions. I started my career with Westpac Bank back in 2012 as a personal banker before moving into a home finance role. This is where I discovered my passion of helping people achieve their financial dreams and goals. In late 2015 I moved to Holiday Coast Credit Union where I held multiple roles including a Mobile Lending Specialist, Branch Manager and Credit Manager. The thing I love the most about what I do is that I get to help people grow and create the life they want. I remember reading a quote “If you love what you do you won’t work a day in your life” and since launching Farnsworth Financial that’s how I truly feel.

0421 287 www.farnsworthfinancial.com.aubec@farnsworthfinancial.com.au386

You have recently launched Farnsworth Financial; What is the business about? Farnsworth Financial was established to fulfill the purpose of helping individuals and families grow. With 10 years’ experience in the industry, I understand that every circumstance is unique, so I wanted to provide a service that offers tailored lending solutions that focus on what’s truly important to the client. I wanted to share my knowledge and passion of lending and finance without the focus on targets and shareholders profits that comes with working for large institutions. Everything I do in business encompasses my core values of honesty, simplicity, education and modernism. I also have a large focus on customer service and flexibility. As a mum and business owner I understand the struggle of time restraints, so I am flexible with hours and meeting location even offering zoom appointments for those who can’t make their appointment in person. When should someone reach out to you for advice? There are several reasons someone may want to reach out. What I’m seeing a lot of currently is people looking to review their existing mortgage interest rates, wanting to see if there is a better deal out there for them. I’ve seen a number of clients now that are coming off low 1-2 year fixed rates. They are coming off their fixed rate in a very different interest rate environment & have therefor really benefited from allowing me to research what other offers are available to them. For those in the market to purchase a property, a preapproval is a crucial step in the process. I can work with the client to achieve a pre-approval which gives them the confidence to make an offer on a property and know their backed by finance. What is also important to remember is that one lender’s opinion isn’t every lender opinion. So, if your current lender has given you a no, it doesn’t mean every lender will. I love nothing more than finding a solution to something that might be a little outside the box.

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6. If it’s all too hard, ring Alex for advice

The most I enjoy about my job and role is problem solving, giving vision and direction. Also working outside with nature. What are your top 5 tips for those who want to or are about to give their gardens a overhaul?

Servicing Port Macquarie, Bonny Hills & Wauchope.

5 tips I recommend for a garden overhaul are:

1. Planning/ideas

5. Upkeeping, regular maintenance

3. Plants suitable to area and climate

Do you have favourite products you stick with or do you change them up depending on the job your doing? We generally use the same trusted products but sometimes may require a special product for a certain job. Tools down, where can we find you? You can find us in Local search, Google and we also have our own Website alexsvegetation.com.au

2. Garden theme

109 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus JOB DODDSALEX

Typical day starts at the work shed, sorting which tools and equipment we will need, depending on whether it’s Gardening, Landscaping or Tree work. We then drive to the job, indicating to staff the job layout and what is required. Some jobs can take an hour, others up to a week. What do you enjoy the most about your role?

4. Preparing the soil “Grow your soil not your plant”

Tell us about your business Alex and how you got started in the industry? Hi my name is Alex Dodds and I run a business named Alex’s Vegetation. We are a Garden Landscape and Tree company offering services from garden makeovers up to large tree removals. I started out in the industry getting a Horticultural Traineeship with Port Macquarie Hastings Council. Then training in Landscaping and Arboriculture. What does a typical day look like for you?

IT’S STILL HAPPY EVER MORE IN 2444 BUT DON’T PANIC THE BOOM IS OVER.

118 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 2021/22 FINANCIAL YEAR SNAP SHOT FOR THE PORT MACQUARIE PROPERTY MARKET. It was a roller coaster year in Real Estate across our nation As one of Australia’s most sought after towns, we have fared better than most in changing times Yes we have peaked and have indeed seen our market slow, but the stats show that we are still seeing relatively strong sales and buyer activity, and our market continued to record growth on the previous 12 months: 1579 PROPERTIES SOLD $960K MEDIAN4BEDHOUSE 2 1/ 2 2 The BOOM is over, but it is still happy ever more in 2444 At HEM, we are happy to see a transition towards a more stable, sustainable market going forwards We expect strong sale prices to continue and a positive environment for both buyers and sellers out there! $765K MEDIAN 3 BED H OUSE $650K MEDIAN 3 BED UNIT $525K MEDIAN 2 BED UN IT $LAND445KPRICE 242FORSALE 1794 PROPERTIES SOLD $785K MEDIAN4BEDHOUSE20 / 2 1 $602K MEDIAN 3 BED H OUS E $535K MEDIAN 3 BED UNIT $400K MEDIAN 2 BED UNIT $LAND315KPRICE SALE191FOR It has been a roller coaster year like no other for the Port Macquarie property market. From July 2021, our market was booming at the fastest rate in history. Skyrocketing buyer demand, record low stock levels and low interest rates saw prices spiralling upwards. It was well and truly a sellers’ market. Crazy numbers at open homes and “FOMO” amongst buyers led to multiple bids on homes, with over-asking price offers, fast sales and record prices becoming the norm. Year on year, the number of $million sales more than doubled and it seemed nothing could stop it. As April approached, an election, rising interest rates, increased stock levels and inflation put the brakes on, knocked consumer confidence and affordability for the first time in years. Nationally, the property market story was similar, but somewhat more extreme. Signs the market was softening were apparent as far back as October 2021 and capital cities were hit hardest. By July 2022, days on market nationally had dragged out to 32, from 20 in November, Auction clearance rates dropped, prices fell 2% and we saw capital cities, such as Sydney, experience consecutive negative monthly growth in prices for the first time.

Whilst the media predicts crisis, the reality is not so and there are positives. Change is never easy, but booms cannot last forever. Sellers have enjoyed years of record growth and are sitting on massive gains, but now maybe it’s the buyers’ turn. The fundamentals are still great, our overriding economy and employment levels are positive compared to others around the globe. We are experiencing a correction, rather than a crash. At HEM, we are excited about the Port Macquarie outlook. Our team have worked in the good times and the bad, and this is not bad! We are simply in a time of transition. We are now in a very healthy, strong and sustainable market. As one of Australia’s most searched towns, Port continues to be a great place to buy, sell and live in. We don’t expect big price rises moving forwards, but if you’re waiting for the crash before you buy, don’t hold your breath, you could be waiting a long time! Contact HEM Property if you would like a full overview of the property market.

120 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus RE CE IV E TH E NEW CAR TRE A TM ENT WIT H A L E XUS CERTI FI ED PR E-OWNE D VE HIC LE WHEN YO U DRIV E A CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED LEXUS you rec ei v e th e sa m e benefits t ha t c ome with a brand ne w car. E xp ec t ama zin g customer s ervice , including ac ce ss to Lexus Encore^stifenebrenworuo, program t ha t rewar ds yo u wit h i nvitat ion s t o luxury ev ents, as wel l as ev erything from 24/7 roa ds ide as si st * to servi ce loa n cars Yo u a lso ge t th e pea ce of min d k nowing yo ur vehicle has under go ne a comprehensive 120 po in t safet y chec k an d c om es wit h a f ul l s ervi ce history. Vi si t Lexus Lexus o f Por t Macqu ar i e t o see o ur fu ll r ange o f Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. LEXU S OF POR T M AC QUARIE 10 Hasting s River Drive, Por t Macquari e | PH 02 658 3 912 2 | ww w.lexusofport ma c qu arie.com.au ^ Encore Ben efi ts apply o n Lexus Certified Pre-Owned vehicle s fo r a min. 12mths from purchase Inclus io ns may change withou t n ot ice. Fo r ful l T&Cs see you r Lexu s De ale r or lexus.com.au/owner s/ ben efi ts. * DriveCare applie s on Lexu s Certifie d Pre-Owned v eh icle s fo r a min. 12mths fro m delivery Coverag e & servic e inclus io n s vary dependen t on v ehi cle location Fo r full T&Cs see, you r Lexus De al er or lexus.com.au/s ma ll pr in t/encore-terms.

Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i198

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Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate

Sophie Knight - Hastings Business Womens Network

Rachel Leman - Fitness Update

Alan Priest - Legal Light

Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures