Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i210

WHAT’S ON

ACO COLLECTIVE, PRESENTED BY AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA.

Saturday 16 September, 7pm

SPELLBOUND

Thursday 28 September, 7.30pm

A TAPESTRY OF CLASSICAL MUSIC FOR STRING ORCHESTRA

JASON OWEN

Friday 29 September, 8pm

THE MADONNA SHOW

Saturday 30 September, 7.30pm

SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL SHOWCASE

Friday 6 October, 8pm

ONE HILARIOUS NIGHT OUT!

MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

Saturday 7 October, 7.30pm

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Follow Glasshouse:

Welcome to the SPRING edition of FOCUS! What a month it's been...

August went way too fast, I swear we only just sent the August FOCUS to print and now we are dropping September... crazy. The feel of warmer months is definitely in the air.

On the Cover;

This month we have featured Jess Messina. Jess is a professional boxer with a huge future ahead. She is strong, dedicated and determined, and it’s showing in her recent results! She’s on a winning streak and we

thought she would make a great cover story for our September edition... do you agree?

Inside this issue;

Last month we shone the light on the beautiful town that is Wauchope, so this month we thought it was only fair to do the same for The Camden Haven. Beautiful beaches and lots of hidden gems are in this region so this month head south and give them a visit.

Tortuga is back! Lucy and Gordo are back this September with their amazing Tortuga festival. We had the pleasure of interviewing the amazing Lilikoi Kaos, the Hawaiian Hurricane, check her out on page 24 and make sure you grab your tickets for what I'm sure will be another incredible Tortuga Festival.

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITION COORDINATOR & SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

We kick off our Stories for Change series this month with the lovely Bianca Adkins from The Lemonade Crew. Don't forget you can nominate your local charity or charities who you think are deserving of the spotlight and an extra boost in publicity. Head on over to this month's Story for Change on page 34 to nominate and check out the video done by our awesome partner in this project, MVP. Three, yes I said it, three editions left of the 2023 FOCUS year. If you have a story that needs sharing or you have a business that you need to secure some advertising for in the summer period then reach out to us here at FOCUS. There is not much we can't do ;) Till next month... HAPPY FOCUSING!

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie

POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie

PHONE 0447 157 340 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Lilikoi Kaos is an international superstar, multi-award winning, Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiian)/Australian powerhouse. Lilikoi will be performing at this year’s Tortuga Festival.

Garry Scruton began making his timber pets as a personal hobby, and his talent and creativity now sees him making all sorts of animals for personal enjoyment as well as commissioned pieces for others.

After her beloved husband, Matt, was diagnosed with MND Bianca wanted to do all she could to raise awareness of this beast of a disease. In Matt’s words “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade!”

SEPTEMBER 2023

THE HARRINGTON CIRCUS SHOW

The Harrington Circus Show is coming to WAUCHOPE SHOWGROUND. A 50 Minute Circus Show. Mini Funfair Open1 Hour Before Showtimes. BOOK NOW!

When 7th September

Where Wauchope Showground

Call 0431 969 209 Online bookings.365tix.com.au

SPRING FAIR

Spring Fair 2023 Port Macquarie Community Garden. The Fair is our annual fundraising event and brings the community together in a day of family fun to celebrate the garden. Entry is free and wheelchair friendly. The day includes workshops, market stalls, fun kids activities, music, plants for sale and our world-famous wood fired pizza

When Saturday, September 16, 9 AM – 2 PM

Got Ya Back Productions

When 21-24 September Port Macquarie

Where Iona Performing Arts Centre, 3 Iona Avenue, Port Macquarie

Tix gotyaback.productions/tickets

MARCIA HINES: STILL SHINING

50th Anniversary Concert Tour

Australia’s beloved musical treasure, with a career spanning five amazing decades, accompanied by her musicians and production crew, each performance will be a celebration of the extraordinary output of this legendary Australian. When Saturday 9th (7:30pm9:50pm) Where Glasshouse Theatre

MISS

MOTIVATOR OPEN DAY

Miss Motivator will be hosting an Open Day. We invite you to join us for a day of movement, education, and empowerment. We will showcase local businesses that provide services in women’s health, creating a wonderful blend of fitness and knowledge. We hope to see you then!

When 16 September 11.00am

Where 2 Blackbutt Road Port Macquarie

DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN’S DRIVE

Port Macquarie is officially taking part in The third annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive on Sunday September 24th, 2023!

All around the world, well-dressed gentlefolk will drive together in classic pre1980 vehicles for men’s health, raising funds on behalf of charity partner, Movember. To join in the drive and be in the running for fundraising rewards, register at gentlemansdrive.com.

When Sunday, September 24, 10am - 6pm

FROZEN JR

Jess Messina is a professional boxer who is STRONG, DEDICATED AND DETERMINED, AND IT’S SHOWING IN HER RECENT RESULTS! She’s on a winning streak and doesn’t intend on slowing down!

MESSINA

Hi Jess. Congratulations on your impressive winning streak! How does it feel to have such a remarkable record in the ring?

It feels absolutely amazing to be able to live my dreams and do something I love everyday. None of this life or success in the ring would ever be possible without the support of my team, friends, family and loyal sponsors:

My success ultimately comes down to having extraordinary coaches and team around me, who equip me with the skill, knowledge and support...

- Beau South Roof Repairs, Elders Lifestyle Group, Rails 1st, Port Plumbing, Port Macquarie Boxing Club, XS Balanced, Baskin Robbins PMQ, Emerald Disability Support, Kalray

Integrated Therapies, Carter and Osborne Electrical, Laurieton Plastering Solutions, Builders Cleaning Company, Rhino Mouthguards, Unbroken and Evett Field. What do you attribute your recent successes to? Is there a specific training regimen or mindset that has helped you secure these victories?

My success ultimately comes down to having extraordinary coaches and team around me, who equip me with the skill, knowledge and support to reach my potential and help me strive for greatness. With an unwavering belief in myself and my team. together with hard work we can achieve anything!

Continued over...

MESSINA

Can you walk us through your preparation for your most recent fight?

How did you approach your training and strategy leading up to the bout?

My last bout came on short notice (3-4 weeks) and we were nursing a few niggles so the preparation wasn’t the greatest but with hard work and dedication my team and I put forward a great plan and executed that on the night.

How do you maintain focus and composure during high-pressure moments in the ring?

Anything can happen in the ring and you need to be able to adapt to that on the job but knowing I’ve put in the hard work and have done everything I possibly can to be the best version of myself allows me to maintain my cool. Even though I am the one stepping through the ropes, it takes a team to get me there and having the support and belief in my coaches that we can change things up at any moment if it’s not working, is undeniably an amazing feeling!

Boxing can be physically demanding. What kind of training or recovery methods do you use to keep your body in peak condition?

My normal training regime is six days a week, twice a day. It mainly consists of

boxing sessions (technical, partner work, high intensity, sparing), strength and conditioning and road work.

I love hitting the beach when possible for active recovery in the ocean. I also receive timely remedial massage and physiotherapy from Kalray Integrated Therapy to help assist with keeping my body in peak condition and work out any niggles. Your dedication to the sport is evident in your performances. What advice would you give to aspiring female boxers who are looking to follow in your footsteps?

If you want something bad enough and you can’t go a day without thinking about it, never give up - you can achieve anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough for it!

What has been the most memorable moment of your boxing career so far? Is there a specific fight or achievement that stands out for you?

I have had so many highs throughout my boxing career thus far - I’ve fought all over the world for Australia as an amateur and competed at 3 World Championships reaching top 8 in the world.

The most memorable thing is all the great friendships and relationships I have made in this sport, that’s what I’ll remember

forever!

What do you feel you have learnt from your boxing career that can be applied to your everyday life?

With highs there also comes lows, but no matter what, you have to pick yourself up and keep moving forward.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future? Are there any particular opponents or titles that you have your sights set on?

My main goal is to become one of the best fighters in the world, and someday World Champion!

For me to achieve that goal I need to continue to work hard and stay dedicated to the cause, but first get the Australian Title!

Thanks Jess!

If you want something bad enough and you can’t go a day without thinking about it, never give up, you can achieve anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough for it!

knowing I've put in the hard work and have done everythingI possiblycan tobethebest versionof myself allows me to maintain my cool.

Hi Damian, please introduce yourself to our readers and your role at Miedecke Motor Group? Hey guys, I’m Damian –Sales Manager for Ram Trucks and LDV at Miedecke Motor Group.

I have been in the motor industry for around 14 years now, and the opportunity to manage RAM and LDV sales for George and Andrew was presented to me about 3 years or so ago. I’ve never looked back!

Tell us about the brand and why it is quickly becoming such a popular vehicle? I think many red-blooded Aussies have had a soft spot for a big American V8, and Ram Trucks Australia have brought something to the country that just ticks the boxes. It’s a modern expression of our culture and what Aussies want out of their vehicle. The past few years with COVID made us all re-evaluate our lifestyle and this new demand for comfortable travel around our beautiful country in a tough and very capable truck has helped the brand just grow in leaps and bounds. Miedecke RAM have recently teamed up with Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley to promote this brand. Can you tell us how this all came about and what is involved? Brooke and Adam are having so much success lately. Luckily enough, the stars aligned with them being quite local, and a mutual friend contacted me and mentioned there might be an opportunity to work together.

After some hard work, a few meetings and a lot of laughs we managed to put this great partnership together. I have to say I’m so proud to see Brooke and Adam driving our product, they are already fantastic ambassadors for the brand and for Miedecke Motor Group. Let’s talk about the RAM as a vehicle, what makes this “truck” different from so many others? What are it’s key features? Ram’s overall package is just put together so well. The new DT series was released in mid-2021, and from an already good previous series truck, the new model has just been taken to a new level. The 1500 Limited won 2020 Luxury Car of the Year in America beating the likes of Mercedes Benz and BMW for luxury – and it’s a ute! It is tough luxury, tows extremely well and gives the customer and their family so much space and comfort. The re-manufacturing process is completed by RAM Trucks Australia in Melbourne at what is now the largest car manufacturing plant in Australia, great for our country and for the brand. When you’re talking about features, they are jam packed and one of the most exciting parts of my job is the reaction from our clients on the return to the dealership after the test drive. They are wowed by the drive, comfort, car like characteristics not to mention the 19-speaker sound system, loads of USB and USB-C connection points, as well as wireless charging to name a few. Oh and the star of the show… the 5.7 litre Hemi V8!

With this new partnership are there any specials or promo deals our readers need to know about? Absolutely! Brooke and Adam have a fantastic event on their farm called “Hang At The Wang’ in Wang Wauk just south of Taree. Customers are invited to stay in accommodation on the farm, enjoy games and camaraderie with Brook and Adam themselves and a private show, as well as a couple of drinks around the campfire! Tickets to this are completely sold out but Andrew Miedecke RAM will be running a competition to give away a couple of passes to this ‘money can’t buy’ experience - only for our RAM customers!

What excites you most about the RAM and what do readers, and soon to be owners have to look forward to about this car?

The new 2023 Model 1500 Laramie Sport has just been released and we have just received our first demonstrator at the dealership. The Sport is a new model that sits between the previous Laramie 1500 and the top of the tree Limited 1500. It adds the additional Driver Assist Package as standard, colour coded front and rear bumpers as well as grille and side mirrors, a sporty black roof lining, new design 20 inch alloy wheel and the all-new 12 Inch Digital Dash. This is keeping us busy with the new 2023 Model 1500 Limited not far away either, or some very exciting new models also in the pipeline (Watch this space).

MIEDECKE RAM HAVE RECENTLY TEAMED UP WITH BROOKE MCCLYMONT AND ADAM ECKERSLEY TO PROMOTE THIS AWESOME BRAND

TORTUGA FESTIVAL

Lilikoi Kaos is an international superstar, multi-award winning, Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiian)/Australian powerhouse. Lilikoi will be performaning at this years Tortuga Festival.

Hello Lilikoi, tell us a bit about yourself and where you are from? Hello my favourite beachside town, Port Macquarie! I’m so looking forward to being back in you! Doing cheeky things together as I hostess this years Untamed Cabaret! It will be a veritable feast of entertainment comprised of some of the most talented, funniest (and HOTTEST) performers from across the country and around the globe!

I am Lilikoi Kaos the formidable cabaret force that had the privilege of lovingly greeting you into my warm, spiegel tent last year at the inaugural Tortuga festival and I’m thrilled to be coming back this September 22nd-Oct 8th! Where did your passion for performing and the arts come from?

I sauntered out of the womb in a top-hat, twirling a hula-hoop and making jokes! When did you start performing as The Hawaiian Hurricane?

I am Hawaiian, raised in Australia, so I have always been the Hawaiian Hurricane, a Polynesian force to be reckoned with. Come and see for yourself. I’m also very humble. Tell us all about your shows and where you have performed? What have been some of the highlights over your career?

How long have you got? 700 words? That won’t cover the first page of my CV, but let’s throw out some highlights.

I’ve headlined a show on the Las Vegas strip

at Ballys, (billboards around Vegas had this gorgeous (and again very humble) mug on them), performed at all the major cabarets in London’s West End, performed around the world as an MC, hula hooper, comedienne and sideshow performer, but one of my main highlights was the Tortuga Festival last year in Port Macquarie.

Are there any specific artists or performers who have influenced your work?

I like to imagine I’m the Hawaiian/Australian combination of Jessica Rabbit, Tank Girl, Mae West, Josephine Baker and The Nanny. Honestly though, I’m probably more like a Powerpuff girl mixed with Tina Belcher from Bob’s Burgers with a dash of Ursula the seawitch.

Do you have any rituals or routines you follow before stepping onto the stage?

I put on a demure tonne of show makeup, while sitting naked in front of a mirror, listening to an eclectic mix of obscure music.

Your are coming to Port Macquarie in September for Tortuga, what are you looking forward to most?

That's right September 22-October 8th, I’ll be coming back to Port Macquarie. I headlined

the inaugural festival last year for Tortuga and I’m thrilled to be back again. I’m flying back from working the last 4 months in the UK performing in London, at the Glastonbury Festival, Manchester, Nottingham, Scotland, oh, and a quick stint in Africa. I can’t wait to see the beautiful people of Port Macquarie again and get up to some mischief with them.

What can the audience expect from your performance?

The Untamed Cabaret is going to be a riot. It will be variety at its best, there will be something for everyone. Bring your friends, partners, parents, partners parents… bring your enemies we don’t mind, have a drink and have some fun. The cast will be changing throughout the festival so get your tickets for every week of the festival! You will be guaranteed to see some mega talent. If you want to have a sneak peak at a couple of the performers follow them on Instagram:

Myself @lilikoikaos

The hilarious @imaanfrankhadchiti

The formidable @jacqueline_furey

The Incredible @danikabishev follow @tortugaportmacquarie to keep updated.

See you in September/October xxx

Thank you Lilikoi. We can’t wait to see you at Tortuga.

Honestly though, I’m probably more like a Powerpuff girl mixed with Tina Belcher from Bob’s Burgers with a dash of Ursula the seawitch.

Graeme Connors

Celebrates 50 years with My Lyrical Life on page and on stage

“One of the greatest pleasures as a performer, is to tell a story in time, in the moment, and feel that emotional connection between you and your audience.”

Master singer-songwriter Graeme Connors is heading south, bringing his new book and show ‘My Lyrical Life’ to stages from Brisbane Qld, to Albury NSW, and kicking off celebrations for his half century in the music industry.

‘My Lyrical Life’ the book, contains 217 songs from the Mackay artist’s pen, recorded by himself, or by artists like Slim Dusty, John Denver and Jon English, plus reflections from phases of his long, colourful career. The ‘My Lyrical Life’ live shows allow the APRA, ARIA and multi-Golden Guitar Award

winner to showcase the lyrical element of his career, particularly the story songs that he wouldn’t normally do with his big band at a festival.

“In some ways it’s like I’m starting again with a massive repertoire behind me, 20 albums, 200-plus songs, and still feeling like a 30-year-old, though it is now 50 years since I left my hometown and went off with Sherbet to play in Sydney straight out of school.

Thursday September 21

Friday September 22

Saturday September 23

Sunday September 24

Old Museum, Brisbane Regent Theatre, Murwillumbah The Player’s Theatre, Port Macquarie Lizotte’s, Newcastle

can,t come soon enough. SUMMER

So while we anticipate warm rays and moments of relaxation, why not shop for the pair of sandals you’ll want to live in all season long at Colonial Cobbler. Quality shoe manufacturer Rieker has started to release their new season summer sandals in an array of colours, awe-inspiring patterns and styles.

Think chunky platforms, wide-strap sandals, and comfortable wedges in an array of hues that are now in-store at Port Macquarie. Why do people prefer Rieker footwear over other trusted brands? Rieker designs all its shoes with comfort and style in mind without compromising on the longevity of the product. This practice makes the stylish Rieker shoe unique.

The material of Rieker shoes provide a snug fit over the feet, causing no form of discomfort. It possesses arch support and a cushioning that gives the wearer the ability to face a long day without the fear of tired feet.

All shoes from Rieker are not only aimed at aesthetics, they are designed to be functional and to offer the user a lot more than a simple fashion statement. Within every Rieker shoe is a lightweight and elastic component that helps it provide an anti-stress feature to the user.

The anti-stress feature is one of the major reasons many people love to wear Rieker shoes and not those from other brands. The functional features in a Rieker make it ideal for the elderly and other individuals suffering foot problems, including heel pain.

This choice is all down to a Rieker shoe for Summer! Rieker has the ability to ensure that the wearer stays in full comfort without going through the pain brought about by poor fitting.

Take the classic summer style sandal to the next level with the subtle height and luxury leather that Rieker offers. Now available in-store at Colonial Cobbler.

GARRY SCRUTON

Garry Scruton began making his timber pets as a personal hobby, and his talent and creativity now sees him making all sorts of animals for personal enjoyment as well as commissioned pieces for others. His pets are unique works of art and will be on display at the Wauchope Chamber of Commerce and Industry Art Gallery, High St Wauchope from 12th - 23rd September.

Hi Garry. Can you share a bit about your journey with your timber sculptures?

I simply walk in circles when I am not engaged. So, the main influence upon the creation of my timber pets was the urge to keep busy and to be challenged despite having a full-time job. Having been an owner-builder on several occasions, I developed the basic skills and ability to interpret a concept into a product. I had also helped local school students with their timber projects like

ukuleles and acoustic guitars, so I sought to amuse myself further by making a carved archtop guitar and a mid-size harp. Preparation like making jigs can be more time consuming than making the actual product. Incredibly, the guitar and the harp both sound authentic and are in tune years later.

What inspired you to focus on pet sculptures?

In a conversation with a colleague, he suggested I make a rocking horse. This was a concept I was unfamiliar with but went in hell bent for leather. At the same time, my

partner and I decided we would like a “pup” around the house. As it turned out, the local barmaid was keen to sell her Blue Heeler pups, so we arranged to meet at her house the next morning. There were several pups to choose from, but I asked, with tongue in cheek, why one of them was walking around with a coffee jar stuck on its head. The pup was struggling to breathe and in a real bother. It was obvious the pup had been inquisitive and managed to get itself stuck in the jar. With some twisting and manipulation, we released the pup from the jar and had no choice but to make that pup

our own. “Murphy” as she is named, then became the model of my next “keep busy” campaign. From there, I progressed to a kangaroo and decided to do an emu to complete the Coat of Arms.

Could you walk us through your creative process from idea or concept to finished piece?

The first port of call with a design is to collect

images from various angles showing the anatomical structure of the pet, then confirm the relative height and width. The size and detail of each pet will determine how many laminations are required. Currently, I am making a fullsize koala. Once I established the overall size and proportion, I laminated 13 layers of 12mm plywood together for each half of the pet. I make the pets in halves which enables me to generate a cavity in the centre to make them lighter and to help reduce stress caused by temperature change. The pets can be roughed out while in two pieces. That also makes access to various parts like armpits easier. When the two halves are eventually joined and balanced, the carving continues until something resembling a pet evolves.

Continued over...

I make the pets in halves which enables me to generate a cavity in the centre to make them lighter and to help reduce stress caused by temperature change.

What types of wood do you prefer to use for your sculptures, and how does the choice of wood impact the final result?

In general, I use marine plywood which is a combination of mixed hardwood veneers. Plywood can be somewhat brittle impacting fine details. I have also used silky oak milled from the forest west of Port Macquarie. It would be futile to use lower grade plywood as they are filled with voids and the adhesive

has less integrity which would make them susceptible to warp and failure. As plywood has the grain running at 90 degrees in each alternate layer, you cannot escape having to work with and across the grain. The cranky grain can make it difficult to seal and then establish a sheen with the final coats. All components are

glued together with external grade adhesive and finished with marine grade varnish. I used to spray the pets but now I just use a brush and wipe on the final coats. The finish is not as striking but I figure you don’t see a lot of glistening animals getting about anyway. Each pet might be described as crude in its detail, but that is essentially the finish I am after.

What sort of tools and equipment do you need for your work?

The majority of work is done using a 125mm angle grinder with an arbortech cutter for roughing out and then I change to a flap disc to pursue the next stage of shaping. An orbital sander is also handy to

As plywood has the grain running at 90 degrees in each alternate layer, you cannot escape having to work with and across the grain.

”Murphy” our blue heeler, became the model of my next ‘keep busy’ campaign. From there I progressed to a kangaroo and an emu to complete the Coat of Arms.

even out some of the surfaces but there are always parts that prove to be inaccessible, and hence rasps, gouges and emery paper folded around various apparatus is required to reach hard to get places. Most of the process generates a fair amount of wood dust so I work outside on a rudimentary bench to follow the shade and breeze.

Could you share a particularly memorable experience you've had while creating a pet sculpture for a client?

I did have a lady ask me to make her a goat. I should have asked her more questions. To me a goat is a “Billy Goat” which stands about 3 feet tall. So off I went and made a well-horned goat that I thought the lady would be rapt with. But no, when she came to view the finished work, she really liked it, but explained she wanted a Nigerian Goat. So, then my research revealed a Nigerian goat is not much larger than a kelpie but has no horns. Off I went again and created a Nigerian Goat that anyone would be pleased with. But no, she expected a male goat, not a goat with an udder. You live and learn.

Detail is crucial in capturing the realism

of pet sculptures. How do you handle intricate features like fur, eyes, and expressions to bring your sculptures to life?

I concentrate on my pets being anatomically correct and in proportion rather than the specific features. In some pets I have inserted eyes, but it seems a lot of folks prefer them without eyes. In general, most animals are short haired and hence fur doesn’t need to be incorporated into the proportion of the design. The emu though is a different matter. Without its plumage, it would look rather vague, and so the plumage is manifested into the design.

I am selftaught. My father was a handy man and an inspiration to watch. He would try his hand at anything and generally succeeded. He had a home-made bench saw in the garage that stood about four feet high.

a handy man and an inspiration to watch. He would try his hand at anything and generally succeeded. He had a home-made bench saw in the garage that stood about four feet high. It was not uncommon for my brothers and I to step up on a crate and start ripping timber when we were only six years old.

Where can people see your work or get in touch?

Best form of contact would be email: garry. scruton@hotmail.com.

Woodworking requires specialised skills and tools. What kind of training do you have in sculpture and woodworking or are you self-taught?

I have to say I am self-taught. My father was

Also, many of my pets will be on display at the Wauchope Chamber of Commerce and Industry Art Gallery, High St Wauchope from 12th – 23rd September.

Thanks Garry.

HELLO KOALAS 7TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL

Treasure Hunt

27 - 30

SEPTEMBER 2023

The World’s First Festival celebrating Australi A ’s best loved animal, Our Ko A la

Register now at the Hello Koalas Sculpture Gallery and Gift Shop

Bellbowrie Park Business Centre

Join in the fun and it’s FREE! Say Hello to The Big Koala and find 40 specially selected Hello Koalas Sculptures on the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. Just follow the clues which will be emailed on Tuesday 26 September or available from the Hello Koalas Sculpture Gallery and Gift Shop.

16/10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm

Special Hours: Open Saturday 23 and Saturday 30 September 9am to 4pm Register online at www.hellokoalas.com/festival/

The Botanic

SPIRIT OF ALL

KOALAS

Designed and created in Port Macquarie by Artist Pauline Roods and Industrial Artist John Belfield

The Big Koala is sponsored by Regional Australia Bank and can be found at Guulabaa, Place of Koala in the Cowarra State Forest, corner of Oxley Highway and Burrawan Forest Drive, Port Macquarie, right next to WildNets.

Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TripAdvisor and Google www.hellokoalas.com

Visit our website for more info www.hellokoalas.com Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TripAdvisor and Google

The Botanic Horticulturist (Harold Vickery & Son, 1/51a Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie), Guula (Wauchope Train Station, Randall Street). Say Hi to our Hello Koalas sculptures WINTER 2023 87-HELLO KOALAS SCULPTUREs 87-UNIQUE ARTIST DESIGNS A big warm welcome to The Big Koala Spirit of All Koalas The Big Koala, painted by local artist Pauline Roods, is at the new exciting tourism and educational precinct Guulabaa, Place of Koala, Cowarra State Forest –Cnr Oxley Highway & Burrawan Forest Drive, Port Macquarie Guulabaa is being created by Forestry Corporation of NSW in partnership with Koala Conservation Australia, Bunyah Aboriginal Land Council, WildNets Forest Adventures and Photography by Lindsay Moller:www.lindsaymoller.com.au Artwork www.enganagraphics.com.au Disclaimer: This map is the property of Arts and Health Australia. The map is not to scale and is provided as a guide only to the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. Whilst all care has been taken when completing this map, Arts and Health Australia accepts no liability for any inconvenience, damage or injury whatsoever that may occur by reliance on the information provided. Please check the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail website for regular updates or to download the most current Trail Guide as a pdf - www.hellokoalas.com © Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. All Rights Reserved. Images and sculpture designs may not be reproduced without permission in writing. Margret Meagher, Project Director Mobile 0416 641 482 Email info@hellokoalas.com Project Owner and Manager Gallery & Gift Shop, Business Centre Macquarie or shop online Enquiries 0416 641 482 hellokoalas.com Guula CHARLIE

Iwas inspired by my long term commitment to promoting the conservation of Australian wildlife, especially koalas which are so much a part of Port Macquarie’s identity. What started with an idea has evolved into a public sculpture trail with 88 Hello Koalas sculptures including ‘The Big Koala, Spirit of All Koalas’, 2.5 metres tall. All our sculptures are designed and hand-painted by Australian artists, with many from our local area.

In 2019, my partner and I were evacuated from Ellenborough with the threat of bushfires and we moved all our things, including Hello Koalas sculptures and merchandise into Port Macquarie.

We rented a storage unit at Bellbowrie Park Business Centre at 16/10 Bellbowrie Street for our Hello Koalas. Having had a long history working in retail and gallery management in Sydney, I decided to create the space into the Hello Koalas Gift Shop and here we are 3 years later in full swing.

Importantly, the proceeds from the Hello Koalas Gift Shop are used to support our conservation work for koalas through art and education.

We employ one wonderful Shop Manager Vicki Eslick and rely on local contractors to help us in our work. We have a long list of enthusiastic supporters who host one or more Hello Koalas sculptures at their organisation or business.

Hello Koalas GIFT SHOP

HELLO CHRISTMAS!

I am proud to dedicate my time on a voluntary basis too so that Hello Koalas continues to raise awareness of the critical importance of keeping our koalas safe. Working in Sydney running art galleries, gift shops and arts events has given me great experience for my new ‘retired’ life in Port Macquarie as ‘the koala lady’, which some locals like to call me! Although we have had great support from many people, we have had to remain innovative to ensure that the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail remains an ongoing and free attraction for people of all ages. The Hello Koalas Gift Shop is a critical part of that process to be sustainable.

For example, we were successful in raising funds to create The Big Koala, made by John Belfield in Johns River and painted by Pauline Roods, through an investment in the Port Macquarie edition of Monopoly and Top Trumps back in 2021. The Monopoly game includes an exclusive silver token representing our proprietary Hello Koalas sculpture design. We continue to sell these popular Monopoly games to advance our conservation projects such as creating educational children’s books about koalas.

Our first ‘Lola had a Dream’ was written and illustrated by Francessca O’Donnell, inspired by her Hello Koalas sculpture ‘Lady Lola The Dancing Koala’ in the Glasshouse. We have also just released a French edition of the book. Three more children’s books are underway. The Big Koala has also been made possible

by our valued sponsors Regional Australia Bank and Forestry Corporation of NSW which provides a beautiful natural environment to showcase this landmark public artwork for their new precinct in the Cowarra State Forest, called ‘Guulabaa, Place of Koala’.

Project partners also include Koala

Conservation Australia, Bunyah Aboriginal Land Council and WildNets Adventure Park, which sponsors their own Hello Koalas sculpture, ‘Crusader Koala’.

Please come and visit us at the Hello Koalas Sculpture Gallery and Gift Shop, with a curated display of 15+ Hello Koalas sculptures and the best koala themed gift shop in the world, including Hello Koalas bespoke merchandise. A veritable treasure trove for exclusive Christmas shopping.

And you are helping a very good cause – our Koalas!

Margret Meagher

Hello Koalas Sculpture Gallery and Gift Shop

10/16 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie

Open Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm

Special holiday opening hours Saturday 23 and 30 September, 9am-4pm 0416 641 482

info@hellokoalas.com

hellokoalas.com

DIARY DATE: Hello Koalas Festival Treasure Hunt, 27 – 30 September 2023

One of the joys of my life is being part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail which I started developing in 2010 and launched in 2014. My aim was to create a free and accessible public art trail for our community and visitors to our region.

-SERIES-

FOCUS has teamed up with Clint from My Video Producer to bring you this campaign dedicated to supporting local charities and GoFundMe campaigns. Our first recipient is none other than Bianca Adkins - The Lemonde Crew.

See Bianca’s story here;

Have a local charity you believe is deserving, nominate them by scanning this QR code.

Bianca Adkins

After her beloved husband, Matt, was diagnosed with MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Bianca wanted to do all she could to raise awareness of this beast of a disease. In Matt’s words “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade!”

Hi Bianca. Can you tell us about how Lemonade Crew came about?

In February of 2019, a pivotal moment reshaped our lives. My beloved husband, Matt, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease at the age of 39. Matt was a man brimming with a zest for life, embracing each day with gusto. Amid the initial whirlwind of his diagnosis, he uttered a phrase that would come to define our journey: 'When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.'

Amid our challenging circumstances, we maintained a positive outlook, never viewing Matty as fading away, because our hope burned so brightly.

As Matt's health declined, I had a compelling urge to raise awareness for this beast of a disease. With no known cause or cure, our shared belief was that by amplifying conversations about MND, we could play a small part in its defeat.

So, this was where the Lemonade Crew was born.

Can you inform our readers about MND and living with a condition like this?

In simple terms, MND affects the nerves in our body, like tiny wires that help our muscles move. When someone has MND, these crucial nerves stop working properly. This can make everyday tasks like walking, talking, and even breathing difficult.

Though its impact varies for each individual, in cases like Matt's, where it's known as ALS, the average life expectancy is around two and a half years. Matt's decline was rapid, transforming our cozy family home into a makeshift hospice. Soon, a dedicated team of caregivers, including myself, provided round-the-clock care. His needs were so great that he often required a

minimum of two caregivers at all times. This incredible team became an extension of our family which I will be forever grateful for. Amid our challenging circumstances, we maintained a positive outlook, never viewing Matty as fading away, because our hope burned so brightly. Our dark sense of humor served as a coping mechanism, bringing more laughter than tears.

As Matt's condition worsened, he lost all physical movement, retaining only control over his eyes. The eye-rolling antics that ensued became legendary, truly next level. To communicate, he mastered the eye gaze system, complete with a British voice that led to many funny situations—especially when he used slang or tried to reprimand the kids. The result? Laughter, always. Continued over...

You have decided to keep Lemonade Crew going even after losing Matt. Why is it important to you to keep it going? What does this project mean to you personally?

Over three years have elapsed since Matt's diagnosis, yet there have been no breakthroughs regarding the cause and cure of this relentless disease. While Matt was resolute in not allowing MND to define him, his unwavering spirit would have driven him to spare others from the suffering he endured. Sharing Matt's story and perpetuating awareness remains of utmost importance to me.

The children and I take immense pride in sustaining the legacy of Lemonade Crew. Our mission extends beyond a mere continuation; if it’s not with Matt, it’s for Matt. Every step we take in living our fullest lives is a tribute to him, even though we can no longer see him we know he is there with us always.

We will often be driving along in the car and the kids will say, “there’s a guy in one of Dad’s shirts, hope he’s making lemonade today”. Such moments warm the cockles of my heart.

Matt's merchandise has traversed the globe, and I'm touched by the stories people share about the meaningful conversations his merch ignites.

The merchandise you create to raise money for the cause is so creative, how do you come up with the designs and ideas?

Whilst Matt and I came up with most of the slogans I can’t take much credit for the incredible designs and printing. This is all done by the local legends at Black Dog Ink and Death Do Us Art. They nail it every time. We like to push the boundaries a little with the merch because it gains attention, and this is exactly what we need to get those conversations happening.

Tell us about your book Lenny the Oyster, when did you write this story and what is it about?

Annually, my daughter's school hosts

"Lemonade Day," where we delve into discussions and learning about MND. However, our emphasis extends beyond that – we strive to instil in the children the significance of resilience and living their best life. Last year, I was searching for a book or story with the concept of “no grit, no pearl." Despite my online searches I had no luck, so I wrote it myself.

The story of Lenny and his buddies is one of resilience and inspiration. It is a gentle reminder that life may not always be how you want it to be, but when you add a little grit and determination you could end up with a beautiful pearl, just like Lenny did. There is another local family dealing with MND currently, can you tell us how you and Lemonade Crew hope to support them and others like them? I know there are many local families who are fighting MND, we are actually in a hot spot, but the particular family you are referring to are good friends of ours. It’s one of those “you wouldn’t read about it” moments and here you are reading about it. Tim was diagnosed not long after Matt passed away. He is my son's best mate’s dad. He is also a dear friend, father of five amazing children and a husband to his beautiful wife Michelle. He has been a serving police officer for over 20 years, a local legend in Wauchope and is incredibly community minded.

They were remarkably supportive to our family throughout our journey and whilst it's an absolute honor to stand by their side throughout their’s, it's also heart wrenching. We are currently in the process of hosting several fund-raising events for the Eggert family, MND is an incredibly expensive disease so every cent is needed to support them but most importantly, funds for them to share incredible moments together as a family, whatever that might look like.

Every step we take in living our fullest lives is a tribute to him, even though we can no longer see him we know he is there with us always.

Tim and I are currently working on a little project together, Tim’s Bucket List Beer Trip. I think he may have regretted telling me his dream to “drink the best craft beer in the most incredible locations in the world with his very own tasting team”. I am like a dog with a bone making this happen so if anyone has any connections please reach out. Not only is this making one of Tim’s dreams come true, it’s also going to be incredibly impactful in the MND space. Think video crew, travel, good yarns, the best craft beer in the world, stunning locations, and the absolute best memories. What do you hope this project does for MND awareness heading into the future?

The ultimate objective, undeniably, is to discover a cure. Even if we can contribute in a small capacity to this monumental goal, the impact would be immeasurable. Many individuals who either have MND or have been affected by it in some way have reached out, creating a blossoming sense of community within the Lemonade Crew. The children and I committed to providing as much love and support to anyone who requires it – there is nothing better than a community hug, we were so blessed to have unwavering support when we needed it most.

We also want to demonstrate the notion

that life demands to be embraced to the fullest. Dark days are inevitable, and there will be moments beyond our control. However, what we consistently control is our response, steering clear of becoming victims of our circumstances. Make as much lemonade as you possibly can! How can the community best support the Lemonade Crew? Where can people follow the journey, or get in touch? Absolutely, become a part of the crew. Find us on social media as Lemonade Crew, and you

can explore our website at www.lemonadecrew. com. I'm truly dedicated to sharing our story and spreading as much inspiration as possible, so don't hesitate to connect if you believe our journey could bring value to you. Look out for our presence at fundraisers and local gatherings—come over and say g’day. Consider grabbing some merchandise; wear it, share it, and help raise awareness.

We have lots of exciting things in the pipeline, including my novel that's currently in progress. I'm optimistic about its release hitting the shelves next year, so stay tuned for updates. Have you made Lemonade today?

I am like a dog with a bone making this happen so if anyone has any connections please reach out. Not only is this making one of Tim’s dreams come true, it’s also going to be incredibly impactful in the MND space.

Excellence in Property Management: Unveiling Our Dedicated Team of Professionals.

Discover the faces behind the exceptional property management experience that’s transforming the Mid North Coast real estate landscape. At One Agency, our passion for providing top-tier service is at the forefront of everything we do. Leading the charge is Tim Castro, a local gem who embodies the values of hard work and community connection as a proud Wauchope/Port Macquarie native.

Our team’s dedication is evident in our staggering accomplishments of the past year—leasing an impressive 211 properties, averaging a remarkable 18 properties each month. With an unparalleled grasp

of the local market, our skilled professionals employ innovative strategies to optimise property performance and returns for our valued clients.

But it’s not just numbers that define us. At One Agency, we pride ourselves on fostering positive experiences for property owners and tenants alike. Our commitment to open communication, transparent processes, and a personalized approach truly sets us apart. We firmly believe that these principles are the cornerstones of successful property management, which is why we consistently strive to exceed expectations.

Our journey has been one of growth and success, with the team expanding to a formidable group of

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET

8 members. Ashlee O’Neill leads as the Senior Property Manager, Tim Castro spearheads as the Business Development Manager, and Emily Thorpe, Cherish Hobman, Ashley Gittoes, Hannah Pead, Chelsea Johns, and Hayley Wills round out the dynamic lineup of property managers and officers.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue serving the vibrant communities of the Mid North Coast, where we’re not just managing properties—we’re shaping experiences and building relationships. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey of excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction.

Hayley

share a passion for travel and photography. professional photographer before moving into teaching, and Rick discovered his love of photography travels and love of bird and wildlife watching.

Hi guys. Can you tell us a bit about how you each got into photography, who taught/inspired who?

HAYLEY - I have been interested in photography for a while. About 8 years ago Dad was going on some amazing trips and I encouraged him to try a DSLR and the rest is history, he is now a fantastic photographer. It is great that we can share our hobby.

RICK - Well this is easy, my daughter Hayley has been a tremendous help teaching me photography, something that both my wife Judy and I enjoy inspired by our travels to see different parts of the world.

What do you each most like to capture? Do you have a favourite subject or style?

RICK - Whilst we travel to explore what the world has to offer, our photography helps remind us of the wonderful places we have been. But it is probably the wildlife we have captured in photos that inspires me most, in particular birds as it is one of my great passions to see them in their natural habitat!

HAYLEY - I feel like I don’t have a favourite subject or style. I just like taking photos of things I like, my family and pets, landscapes, animals. I do like night photography and stars, that’s always fun trying to get the right shot. I’m not a fan of bird photography like Dad, it’s just too hard!

Between you, you have some incredible

travel photos! You recently travelled Africa together, can you tell us a bit about the trip and some of your most memorable moments?

HAYLEY - We have just spent 3 weeks of June in Africa, mainly Zimbabwe with my Dad, Rick and my stepmum Judy, who took myself and my brother Andrew. We walked around Victoria Falls and had a spectacular helicopter ride over the falls. Photos don’t do a place like that justice. We went to Hwange National Park, going out on game drives to take photos at 6am in minus 4 degrees on the back of a ute but it was so worth it as we saw so many animals, especially elephants, buffalo, and lions. The birdlife was incredible, and it was mind blowing to be so close to the animals you could almost touch them, but we didn’t!

Deeks and her father Rick Hodgson both

HAYLEY DEEKS+ RICK HODGSON

From there we went on to Lake Kariba and went tiger fishing on the lake each afternoon as the sun was setting. I was better at photography than fishing and the sunset certainly delivered. Our next adventure saw us take a little 6-seater Cessna up to Mana Pools. This spot was unbelievable. We camped on the Zambezi River with hippos and lions serenading us all night outside our tent. Andrew and I were able to canoe down the Zambezi with our guide locating crocodiles and hippos for us to avoid. As we arrived back to camp, a family of elephants crossed the river directly in front of us, a truly magical experience.

Our last stop was at Sabi Sands in Kruger National Park where we were lucky enough to

who camouflaged so well (good spotting Andrew!) and a large pack of wild dogs. The animals were amazing to see, and we know how lucky we were to experience what we did. It was quite astonishing how big some of those animals are. We were so close to all the animals, at times being stuck in our tents due to the proximity of lions and elephants wandering past outside. I took way too many photos and I’m still trying to sort them all out and choose ones to frame!

RICK- Africa is always a fantastic destination with such a diverse array of wildlife, big and small, and every day you will find something exciting and different! There is nothing like having a wild elephant come and join you for lunch or a hippo calling out at night while grazing just outside your tent, not to mention the lions roaring during the night, “the real Africa”. The real buzz is to see your family take it all in for the first time and the photographic Mecca that comes with it!

What gear did you take on this trip?

RICK - Bag weight limits are always an issue when flying but depending on your requirements to satisfy your area of photography, some may use phones to take

photos or a small automatic type of camera. For me, I like to use large zoom lenses which then require tripods or better still a monopod! If you feel as though you need a different lens and camera for other aspects of photography, I take a second kit rather than change lenses while out in the field! The variety of cameras today gives you greater flexibility in this regard!

HAYLEY - As Dad said, the biggest hurdle for this trip was weight as we were catching some small charter planes in Zimbabwe. I think I had the same weight in camera gear as I did for the rest of all my luggage. I took a good versatile long zoom lens for animals and a nice wider lens for the landscapes. I had 2 camera bodies for each lens so I wasn’t changing lenses in the dusty conditions as well as having a backup camera if something happened. I used a lightweight monopod to help hold the camera and lens in the vehicle. I also took a very light laptop and a portable hard drive to backup my photos each day. My favourite camera I used was my Nikon D850 paired with a 150-600mm lens. This lens was perfect for our trip as sometimes the animals were right next to our vehicle and other times, they were a fair distance away and needed a good zoom.

Continued over...

This spot was unbelievable. We camped on the Zambezi River with hippos and lions serenading us all night outside our tent.

For anyone picking up photography, what do you think are the must-haves in terms of equipment when starting out?

HAYLEY- I would say research the different brands of camera systems and pick the one that is going to suit the photography you want to do the most, and has the type of lenses and accessories you want. A good camera that can help with some automation when you are learning but then also gives you the manual options to use when you get more experienced is what I would suggest, along with a versatile zoom lens.

High quality fast memory cards are essential as well as a good backup system for your photos.

RICK - With so many different styles of photography and camera equipment today you will probably need to decide what type of photography you wish to choose, talk it through with an experienced camera buff to help you decide! Other than that, a suitable bag to keep your equipment together along with some lens cleaning cloths, spare batteries and most of all spare

Everything comes together, the light is in the right spot, and you’ve got the right settings and the perfect lens on. It doesn’t happen that often but when you know, you know.

memory cards that suit your camera! What advice do you wish you’d been given when you first picked up a camera?

HAYLEY - I think my first thought would be to spend as much as you can to buy a good quality lens. Good glass is always appreciated and if you look after it, it lasts. Find some like-minded friends to go out and try new locations and techniques to learn together is lots of fun. I also wish I had organised my photos better in the early days. A good filing system makes everything so much easier.

RICK - Get good advice on the type of camera you will need and most of all enrol in a camera class to learn the basics of photography, it will save you a lot of frustration in the long run!

If you had to pick an all time favourite image you’ve captured, what would it be and why? (ok maybe you can pick a couple)

HAYLEY - Obviously, some of my African ones are special. I think it comes from that moment when you take it, you know straight away, “I got that shot”. Some moments you realise are once in a lifetime. Everything comes together, the light is in the right spot, and you’ve got the right settings and the perfect lens on. It doesn’t happen that often but when you know, you know.

Other times it’s the moment in time and the memory associated with taking the photo. Photos of my children fall into this category and one I took with Dad at Urunga late one night of the boardwalk and the Milky Way. We were having so much fun together trying different techniques. Let’s just say I need more wall space for them all though.

RICK- This is a hard one! With so many

photos from many parts of the world! I have photos of some of the rarest birds in the wild and travelled long distances and waited for the right moment to get the photos! The stand outs for me are the right place at the right time and most of all the right light! If I could say 3, they would be a “Tui“ bird in New Zealand, zebras drinking at the waterhole in Africa and a leopard in Namibia, Africa.

Be honest, how competitive are you two when it comes to photography?

HAYLEY - Depends who you ask. I suppose we are very competitive but it’s more in fun. I think it is a family trait. It is interesting, however, our styles have changed, and we shoot differently now. That was evident in Africa, we had the same subject a lot of the time, but we took different types of photos. It is always good to have someone to sharpen your skills against. Now my daughter is trying her hand at photography, and I think she is going to end up being better than both of us!

RICK- Not at all, I can appreciate other people’s photos, they inspire me to look at

other perspectives of photography! I am more competitive with myself to accomplish better results!

You’ve both done a fair bit of travel, camera in hand, where else have been some of your favourite places to see? And if you could choose your next travel adventure to do together, where would you go?

RICK - Judy, my wife, and I have been to many places around the world with many great destinations and sights to see, from the Amazon to the high Andes of South America and into the wilds of Africa, India to see tigers in their natural habitat, Iceland with magic scenery wherever you look but to visit the polar regions is something else! These regions are facing major climate challenges along with the wildlife, so to see polar bears is a must, I would go back in a flash!

HAYLEY - New Zealand is another favourite place of ours with spectacular scenery and landscapes. We’ve been a few times and it never disappoints.

I’d like to do some more travel in Australia and go more outback. Some of those rugged landscapes and the rich colours. We are lucky to live here though, we have so much in our own local area. You just have to get out and enjoy it.

That was evident in Africa, we had the same subject a lot of the time, but we took different types of photos. It is always good to have someone to sharpen your skills against.

COVER DIS H Pan fried fish of the week, with a sweet buttered carrot purée. Served with seasonal greens and a creamy saffron sauce . from ABUNDANCE CAFE

BESPOKE

Aword that conjures up images of immaculate made-tomeasure tailoring, hushed and reverential discussion regarding the finer points, appreciation of the holistic and above all a privilege allowed for by the exceedingly well to do…Bespoke – as defined by the Oxford English Dictionary – “A product made specially, according to the needs of an individual customer”.

And there you have it – made to order, in a nutshell. When it comes to clothing and also furniture it is obviously desirable to have such things made to one’s individual taste, size and personal stylistic preferences. Who doesn’t want to acquire the perfect suit, made to measure, with the most beautiful fabric carefully chosen as a keepsake? Or your favourite chair – crafted just for you, that you sink into at the end of every day?

These items are long term purchases, built to last and so very much worth the extra time involved at the outset as well as the additional cost associated. But when it comes to other aspects of life, are we willing to invest the time and pay the price for bespoke products and service?

When it comes to dining out in restaurants,

the answer to this question is a firm no. In our industry we come across the demand for bespoke dining every day. Dietary requirements, intolerances, allergies, religion, plain old likes and dislikes – you name it. When it comes to food – many of us have a ‘bespoke’ approach to how and what we eat. It’s a human trait – all you need to do is look at the kids at the dinner table demanding the peas to be separate to the nuggets. We get it. But why does it go so far as it seems to be reasonable for someone to think they can go into a restaurant, unannounced and feel that it is ok for them to change the menu items at their discretion?

Of course if the question has been asked in advance and we have agreed to it that is something else. However increasingly in our industry, we find it to be an almost daily occurrence and point of contention between ourselves, our team and our customers when such requirements are posed with little or no notice. To be honest – sometimes even with notice, the demands for variances leading to loss of productivity within our team whilst they have to take the time to create entirely new dishes, not to mention the commercial aspect of additional costs associated with such, that diners expect that we will absorb on their behalf.

When I ask my cabinetmaker to design me

something ‘off the shelf’ I embark on the venture with the firm knowledge that there will be an additional cost to the standard version I order off the catalogue.

But why is it that it when it comes to ‘off the menu’ there’s no such knowledge or expectation? In fact there’s often more a feeling of assumption or taking for granted about making such demands.

Is it purely that restaurants and hospitality establishments epitomise social interactions and inclusiveness – and therefore all patrons feel they have a right to eat something that includes them?

All very well in an ideal world, but unfortunately there is one that we have learned and that is we cannot please everyone, all the time.

Whilst we will always do our best to accommodate dietary requirements when given adequate time, it isn’t always possible. Dining out is a choice and we appreciate that all patrons want to feel comfortable and ideally to eat some food that is edible for them.

However in this day and age, the level and intensity of specific needs, wants, food fads and trends has left us in the restaurant industry reeling and wishing that we ourselves could hire that private ‘bespoke’ chef!

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET with LOU PERRI

Palate

focus contributor.

FRUIT Frosty

Ingredients

60 ml vodka

60 ml rum

1 mango - fresh or frozen

1 cup ice cubes or crushed ice

Method

Peel and cube mango, then add to the blender. Add rum, vodka, and ice.

Blend until you get a smooth slushie-like consistency. Serve with a maraschino cherry and enjoy!

B-A-N-ANAS

The older you get the better you get, Unless you’re a banana! For most bananas, their destiny is simply to be eaten and enjoyed. Bananas arrive fresh on a daily basis here at Kenny's and are supplied by the local legends at Golden Dawn who are based out of Coffs Harbour.

We sell more bananas than anything else in our little shop.

Whether you like them ripe and ready for after that workout, packed in your lunchboxes for an easy snack or used for the traditional banana bread they are available all year round. Check out our new website that now includes our famous fruit box. Delivered fresh to your doorstep or workplace, can't get much better than that.

This is also one of my busiest times of my year as a business owner, behind the scenes. It’s when buying trips are in full swing, decisions are being made about what to buy for our upcoming collections and importantly how much to buy… it’s a fun time, but it can also present its challenges.

I’ve just returned from my annual pilgrimage to Melbourne, where I spent 4 full days immersed in all things retail. For me, it’s not just about the buying (though of course that’s important), it’s about reconnecting with current suppliers, meeting new suppliers and the best part, meeting in person other business owners who I’ve only ever communicated with via social media. There’s a special something that happens when you connect positively with fellow boutique owners, because owning a business like ours can be quite solitary, that is until you allow yourself to share with and learn from those around you. There’s a wealth of knowledge and support out there and I am constantly in awe of those well established retailers who simply “know their stuff”. This trip was especially nice for me personally, as so many people reached out expressing their appreciation for the efforts we are

making on our social platforms, recognising the community we are creating both locally and via our online presence. As with anything worthwhile, this extra push we are making takes a lot of effort, but by making it enjoyable it hardly seems like work at all (most of the time)!

While all this is happening for me out of town, there’s also massive changes happening in store at this time of the year too. This is when the last hints of winter are taken away, with racks being completely refreshed with bright spring fashion. The girls in store are working double time to keep up with deliveries, and let me tell you walking back into the store after being away for a week or two is like walking back into a completely new business… the colour this spring is phenomenal!

Now as I sit here writing this month’s musings, I can’t help but reflect on my day in the shop yesterday. The sun was out, there was a buzz in town as so many fabulous ladies wandered through the doors. This of course isn’t unusual, but there was something else in the air. These stylish ladies all had one thing in common… they were attending the Ballet at the Glasshouse. There was excitement in the air, as “old” friends reconnected for a girls’ weekend in Port and the atmosphere around them was electric.

Having just returned from Melbourne, where I took advantage of the new Bonza route direct from Port into Tullamarine, it got me thinking. I was so excited to be able to jump on a jet from our regional airport and arrive in Melbourne less than two hours later! The easy access to new restaurants, sporting events, and stage shows… but after experiencing the buzz around town over the weekend, it really did remind me how lucky we are.

Those attending the ballet on Saturday had all booked in for pre show dinner or drinks at our selection of fabulous dining options within walking distance of the venue; they could walk back to their accommodation after the show without hustling for an Uber with 20,000 other attendees, and they could also enjoy our divine beaches, shopping and cafes all weekend too.

Sure, there’s nothing like an escape to the big city every now and then, but in reality, we’ve got everything we need right here… and seeing the excitement in my customers this weekend was just the reminder I needed.

If you’re enjoying my monthly musings and would like to subscribe to our weekly emails, head to megandme.com.au and click to join. If following the socials is more your thing, head to @megandme.com.au on Instagram for a daily dose of fun.

with LUSANNA FROM MEG + ME

This is one of my favourite times of the year… the days are getting longer, the suns rays are beginning to warm our skin even more, and the town is a buzz with the anticipation of things to come.

LOVEShare the

Felicity Fough is behind the local community initiative Share The LOVE Project, aimed at providing items for those in need in our community. She works alongside other charities and is constantly adapting to what is most needed locally.

Can you tell us about the Share The LOVE Project and what its goals are?

Share the LOVE Project is a ‘grassroots’ movement aimed at helping those less fortunate in the Port Macquarie Hastings area. Our project aims to work directly, in the community, with people experiencing homelessness or financial hardship and provide them with support and much needed life essentials. We distribute items obtained through generous community donations alongside those specifically purchased and provide them to those most in need. We seek to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where people can come and select exactly what they require (at no cost) with no fear of judgement or reprisal. We hope that this freedom of choice allows those who have been unable to attain such essentials to do so in a dignified way.

How did the idea for the project come about?

The idea of the project came about after

seeing a Lifeline Mid North Coast Facebook post in December of 2021 about survivors of suicide and/or domestic violence who were experiencing homelessness. After reading this post I felt compelled to do something. I wanted to find a way to remind them that there are times when they feel good about themselves, that life may be hard at times but there are people who care about them, and they are not alone. I enlisted the help of my mother and we created 42 (24 feminine and 18 masculine) self-care packs filled with practical items, some little pamper pieces, and messages of support. These were then donated to Lifeline to distribute during the Christmas period. Soon after, we decided to finally take the plunge, to formalise ourselves and create the Share the LOVE Project. Can you tell us about some of the work you’ve been doing so far?

Share the LOVE Project is based on a simple concept; we ‘share the love’ through our various ‘projects’. Each project is based on identified community needs. As we identify a need we consider if this is already being

addressed by another community group, and if we have the capacity to address it. Community needs have changed since we began, and we too have adapted.

We continue to visit the St. Thomas Soup Kitchen at least monthly, or more often depending on need. In July we met the amazing crew of the Souper Van and decided to introduce (initially) a weekly Wauchope distribution, the frequency of which will be decided upon need and volunteer availability. We have a major project of the year called Secret Formal Business, which aims to help Year 12 students in need of formal items. We have also previously donated items to other groups, a special assistance school, and an aged care home.

How do you think working directly with locals in the community is different to larger scale charities?

The Share the LOVE Project aims to provide support directly to those in need. We know many wonderful organisations exist who do amazing work in the community but there will always be gaps. We do not seek to replicate

existing services but rather to complement what is already there and identify additional ways we can support our community. We find that our patrons are excited to see us, to chat and share their life experiences, and are comfortable reaching out for support when required.

We have formed great working relationships with other community groups, charities and local services, which provides us with good working knowledge of who else can help and in what capacity. We believe that if we all work together, we can improve the lives of our patrons and make substantial changes in the community. One of your community projects, Secret Formal Business, is about providing a formal outfit for those who may not be able to afford it. Can you tell us about the impact you’ve seen this project have so far and what you hope it achieves?

the

Secret Formal Business aims to provide formal outfits to high school students who might not otherwise be able to afford such items to attend their Year 12 formal with their friends. We know that with the rising cost of living, many families are feeling the pinch and that purchases such as these may not be affordable for many. We believe that all students deserve the opportunity to look and feel fabulous and attend their formal. We know that for some, this may be their only opportunity to get dressed up and celebrate their achievements. The community support for this project has been amazing with so many people reaching out. Local businesses have jumped on board to offer their support, act as donation dropoff points, display posters, placement of donation boxes, and donations of goods or services. We were extremely blessed to have Jess from Home at Roto House immediately offer her support which included the generous donation of space for our try-on days in the September school holidays. It is the support of businesses like Jess’s that make it possible to

do what we do.

Is the project reliant on community donations? Can you explain how it works and how people can contribute?

At present Share the LOVE Project is selffunded which means we are entirely reliant on fundraising and our own personal contributions. To date, our fundraising has been fairly limited, although this has gradually increased over the past few months when we implemented monthly fundraising BBQs and an awesome new raffle. Our BBQs are run outside near the Port skatepark on a Saturday. We advertise the date each month via our Facebook and other local advertising pages. These BBQs would not be possible without the support of Bec and her amazing crew at Breakwall HQ. She keeps us well caffeinated as we sell some great sausage sandwiches, funky socks, and motivational merchandise. We are super excited that this will soon include some personalised Share the LOVE merchandise.

We are happy to announce we have also introduced an exciting new raffle filled with a whopping $2,400 worth of prizes. The first prize of is a gorgeous Troll beads bracelet worth $1,000. The other prizes have been donated by some amazing local businesses. Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5 and are available at our monthly BBQ, at participating businesses, or by individual request. Donation boxes are also available at various locations in

Port Macquarie. Visit our Facebook page for more information.

What donations are you currently most in need of?

Common items required for our distributions are clothing, shoes, towels, bedding and blankets, food, toiletries, and knitted items such as beanies, blankets, gloves, scarves, and booties. We are always on the hunt for men’s items of all sizes as these are our most sought after items. All we ask is that items are in good, clean, usable condition and free from stains, pet hair and smoke. Donations are appreciated so please visit our Facebook page for more information.

We are also in need of community assistance for our upcoming formal wear project. We plan to create a ‘shopping’ style experience within our ‘closet’ for our participants to access dresses, suits, accessories, and shoes. We also require volunteers, services and/ or suppliers to assist with hair and make-up services on their formal day. If you feel you can assist us with this in any way please get in contact with us.

How can people follow the Share The Love journey and learn more about what projects you’ve got coming up?

People can follow us on Facebook where they can stay up to date with where we are and what we are up to. You can also find links to Secret Formal Business, our formal wear project, to stay up to date with this project.

We believe that if we all work together, we can improve the lives of our patrons and make substantial changes in

community.

Real Estate Specialists

we’ve got you covered.

Rainbow Beach ESTATE

Can you give our readers an overview of Rainbow Beach Estate?

Rainbow Beach Estate is a carefully planned community that aims to provide residents with a resort-like atmosphere and a relaxed coastal lifestyle that promotes health and wellness. The estate offers a range of luxury residential homes as well as sustainable medium density homes that require low maintenance. With recreational and cultural amenities right at your doorstep, residents can enjoy endless kilometres of walkways and cycleways that showcase the natural beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, the estate features lakeside parklands, a top-quality school, and well maintained sporting fields. What sets Rainbow Beach Estate apart from other developments?

Rainbow Beach Estate stands out from other developments due to its unique features and offerings. Firstly, its proximity to the school

and the newly opened sporting fields makes it an ideal location for families with children. Secondly, there is no other estate that offers such close proximity to the beach, allowing residents to enjoy the coastal lifestyle to the fullest. Furthermore, the estate takes pride in its commitment to the environment, with a focus on regenerating native bushland around the community. The future estate will also include beautiful lakes and walkways, enhancing the overall living experience. Lastly, the estate boasts a main street with a charming village feel, which is currently in the final stages of approval by the council. All these features combine to create a truly exceptional lifestyle location.

Can you provide information about the schools and nearby shopping options?

Rainbow Beach Estate is fortunate to have Lake Cathie Public School as part of the community. Enrolling in this highly desirable school is possible for residents of the estate, ensuring a quality education for their children. The school boasts fantastic teachers

STEWART O’BRIEN

and state-of-the-art facilities. In addition, the estate recently opened new sporting fields, which include four fields, basketball and netball courts, a cricket pitch, and a kids park. This provides ample opportunities for residents to engage in sports and recreational activities.

How many stages are there in Rainbow Beach Estate?

Rainbow Beach Estate consists of several stages, with approximately 500 blocks remaining for future development. Many of these blocks offer stunning views of the surrounding bushland or lakes. It is expected that these remaining blocks will be sold over the next 10 years, allowing for a gradual and sustainable growth of the community.

The estate boasts a main street with a charming village feel, which is currently in the final stages of approval by the council. All these features combine to create a truly exceptional lifestyle location.

Could you provide information about the available lots in Rainbow Beach Estate?

The current stage of Rainbow Beach Estate has only 10 blocks remaining, and these

blocks are now registered and ready for construction. With these blocks, residents could start building their dream homes by Christmas. The location of this stage is conveniently situated between the village centre and the school, offering a balanced lifestyle. Most of the blocks in this stage are level, and prices for available blocks start from $410,000, providing an affordable opportunity to become a part of this thriving

community.

Are there house and land packages available in Rainbow Beach Estate, and if so, are there specific builders?

Rainbow Beach Estate offers house and land packages in collaboration with Pycon Homes. These turnkey packages include a fully complete 4-bedroom home, with prices starting from $882,400. Additionally, there are other builders within the estate who have recently completed homes for sale, providing residents with a variety of options to choose from.

Thanks Stewart

The Newest Release at Rainbow Beach Estate is Here - Stage 6C

In response to the increasing demand for residential land we are delighted to introduce the release of Stage 6C. This development will deliver 14 affordable lifestyle lots ranging from 462.1m2 to 751.3m2.

Expected to attract strong interest, these prime residential blocks are located between the education and sporting precinct as well as the proposed village centre, making them highly desirable for both families, retirees and investors.

Location and convenience are the key with this latest release as you are within 4km of the first-class facilities of Lake Cathie Health Complex, local shopping centre and eateries. You also have fantastic mountain bike trails, the golden sands of Rainbow Beach and the calm waters of the lake all within 5km from your new home site.

For further details about this land estate, please contact our sales team:

Kylie’s Art Studio in Laurieton has been operating now for nearly 11 years and stocks all the major brands in art supplies. Whether you’re a professional artist or enjoy painting for a hobby, we have all the equipment you need. We stock a full stand of Art Spectrum oils, full range of Atelier Interactive and Matisse Structure in Acrylics as well as Jo Sonja. Watercolours are covered with Daniel Smith Watercolours and Winsor & Newton plus Art Spectrum colours, a range of gouache from Holbein and not to forget

the pastel artists, we have art spectrum pastels and PanPastels along with applicators, brushes and different brands of watercolour paper and pastelmat paper by Clairefontaine for pastel artists. We also cover the needs of resin artists with stocks of slow cast and fast cast resin by Just Resin along with pastes, pigments and inks plus alcohol inks. All that is listed is only a fraction of what we have in store. If we don’t happen to have what you need, we will gladly source it and order it in for you.

My name is Jess and I am passionate about anything that makes your soul feel warm and welcome. I have always enjoyed being artistic. The use of colours, layers and texture brings me most joy. I also have a keen fascination for attention to detail and I think that’s why I found my niche in floral design.

I purchased Fieldwork Flowers approximately 2 years ago with a view to not only continue this truely unique floristry shop, but to see it grow and diversify with the inclusion of online shopping for flowers and giftwares 24/7. I also decided to invest in this business further by enhancing the shop’s street appeal by designing a purpose built floristry shop and espresso bar, which meant a small relocation for this to become a reality.

Recently all renovations and new build works were completed allowing the business to enter the next phase of moving into the bigger store located at 55 Bold St Laurieton. We have opened an espresso bar called Fieldwork Espresso serving delicious Campos coffee by very talented, locally grown baristas who really know how to make a great drop! Here customers can sit in store or

FIELDWORK FLOWERS

order ‘Grab & Go’ coffees with the choice of spoiling themselves by purchasing fresh sweet or savoury goodies provided by local patissier business Baked Culture (they are to die for). Our cafe customers really enjoy watching the florist design the days orders while they sit and catch up with friends over a hot or cold drink. The final phase of expanding the business is to place tables and chairs at the back of the shop on a lawn area under the shade of the gum tree to sit and enjoy great Campos coffee in this breathtaking region we get to call home. There is a self serve dog wash with warm water located at the back here also called ‘Bark & Bath’, so

customers with dogs will be able to sit and have a coffee and clean their dog all at the same time. Our shop has that beautiful buzz of activity from a blended mix of locals and visitors calling in to look at out beautiful range of flowers on display (both native and traditional), those ordering flowers for every day needs and special events, through to souls sourcing that special gift and finally all of us needing to be caffeinated. Our staff are diligent in helping customers with their needs and cater to all requests. We look forward to assisting you all as you pass through the doors and enter Fieldwork Flowers & Fieldwork Espresso.

YOUR Practice

Meeting Commitments to Community

In the Focus Magazine issue of July, 2018 we introduced the new medical complex at Lakewood; fast forward to September, 2023 and it’s time for an update. There was an ownership change in Your Family Practice (YFP) in December 2022 which reinforced YFP’s commitment to providing quality health care for the region. The new owners, are all well-known faces to YFP. The original owner of Deidre McInherneyNash continues to bring over 20 years health care management experience providing stable leadership for our growth. Dr. Murt Ahmed provides a high level of care and leadership for our training practice and enjoys the patient/GP relationship he has formed over many years.

When Dr Murt came to our area, he was a Registrar and has been an owner of YFP for many years and a family man with 3 children. The new owners, Dr Fu Wen Chong and Dr Camellia Chooi joined the practice as Registrars and now work as supervisors and mentors to our training doctors. Dr Camellia has been with YFP since the beginning, providing mental health, women’s health and chronic care to her many loyal patients. She is a very well respected GP and provides much needed adolescent health care to our community. Dr Fu has an insight into

transitioning to practicing in Australia and educating our IMGS to meet the Australian health standards. His experience in Indigenous health and expertise in skincare contribute to quality local healthcare.

As promised in the July 2018 Focus article, YFP was well placed to meet the expanding health needs of the region with 2 new GPs, and another due soon (2 females and 1 male). In addition to also adding 2 Registered Nurses, we have kept our promise to the region!

Only onwards and upwards from here for YFP.

MOUNTAIN BIK E PARK

Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is an inclusive park open to riders of all ages and skill levels, set in beautiful bushland a short drive from the centre of Port Macquarie. We spoke to Jason Roods to get the latest on the trails, events and training available.

Hi Jason. Can you provide an overview of Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park?

Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is a destination for mountain bike riders of all ages and skill sets, we provide a social environment for everyone to enjoy. Shortly we will be starting up our Thursday afternoon social rides when daylight-savings starts as well as our Jolly Nose Gravity Groms.

What inspired the creation of the park and how has it evolved over the years?

The park has evolved over the past few

years with more trails with a larger variety of riding from cross country to the more gravity runs seen with different grades of trails available.

What unique features or trails does Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park offer that make it stand out from other biking destinations?

It’s mainly the location for us, as it’s only a 15 minute drive from Port Macquarie and for a lot of the club members they’re able to ride straight from home.

Could you describe the different types of trails and difficulty levels available at the park? How do you cater to

both beginner and experienced riders?

All the cross country trails are on the green easy level to suit most riders and we have 6 gravity runs ranging from easy, intermediate to harder trails, so it is suitable for a lot of riders.

is

about the new trail that has just been finished off, called Booker Trail, it is a flow trail with lots of berms and great to have a train of river following each other down.

Can you tell us about how things run at the park? Are there groups for certain levels of experience, or is it more of a casual set up?

We aim to be casual. On our social rides we have different groups for different levels of

riders, more to cater for everyone.

Maintenance and trail development are crucial for a mountain bike park. How do you ensure that the trails remain safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for riders?

There is always maintenance needed with the trails. We host regular trail maintenance days and there is the ‘Trail Wizard’ Phil who is always out doing work somewhere on the trails. We often turn up and find he’s been there working on different areas of the trails for everyone, he’s been at it for many years! Are there any special events, competitions, or programs that take place at Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park?

We do host the Rocky Trail series every year that brings a lot of riders from all over. We also have the Jolly Nose Gravity Groms starting up soon which is a coaching school for the little ones.

Can you share some memorable experiences that riders have had at Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park? Are there any

particularly challenging or unique trails that riders often talk about?

At the moment everyone is raving about the new trail that has just been finished off, called Booker Trail. It is a flow trail with lots of berms and great to have a train of river following each other down.

Looking ahead, do you have any future plans or developments in mind for Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park? How do you envision the park evolving in the years to come?

I’m sure the club will continue to grow and with that so will the trails get bigger and better.

Everyone

raving

Thanks to digital advancements, a visit to the dentist is becoming faster, safer, more reliable and comfortable than ever before. Recently patients have been asking, “what is digital dentistry?” We thought we would spend some time breaking it down.

What Is Digital Dentistry?

Digital dentistry is a movement that includes the use of digital technology and computers to examine, diagnose, scan, print or mill, to treat your oral health.

Types of Digital Dentistry Technology, Digital dentistry is transforming just about every aspect of oral care, from the moment you check in, to assess your oral health, to the diagnosis, the treatment plan and treatment of any condition, and follow up appointments. Some digital dentistry tools that you may come across include:-

Intraoral Cameras. Small cameras are becoming as popular as the tiny round mirrors dental professionals have historically used. One of the biggest benefits of these cameras is magnification and the ability of a patient to see their own teeth and areas of concern. With magnification and a flat screen, you can see the issues and you can understand and improve your oral health and make educated decisions about your treatment options. In some cases, we can even simulate your treatment and outcomes.

Digital radiography and 3D x-ray. X-rays have been used in dental offices for a very long time, but the traditional x-ray process

DIGITAL

DENTISTRY

CHANGING THE WAY YOU experience DENTISTRY

required film processing, which took time, expense, and the prints needed to be filed and physically carried around. Digital radiography is faster, clearer and they are immediately available to see on a computer screen and these images can be shared easily with specialists. Recent studies show there is less exposure to radiation with digital radiology as opposed to film x-rays.

A 3D x-ray provides a much broader, clearer and more complete view of facial structures than a regular x-ray. These images allow your dentist to view your teeth, oral and nasal cavity, and jaw in 3D. The angles, zoom distance, and rotation of the image can be easily manipulated to focus on areas of concern. The more that your dentist can see, the better they will be able to diagnose and treat any dental issues. A treatment plan based on a 3D x-ray is fast becoming the golden standard for patient diagnosis. 3D x-rays can also be used to create surgical guides for advanced dental procedures. On top of being a fantastic diagnostic tool, a 3D dental x-ray is a non-invasive and painless procedure. A 3D x-ray does expose you to more radiation than a regular x-ray, however it is not an x-ray that needs to be taken very often and it lends benefits across time and dental health.

Intraoral scanning and CAD (Computeraided design)/CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) technology,

In a time not so long ago, dental professionals would use a gooey substance (impression material) in your mouth to create a 3D

impression or model of your teeth and mouth. This model would be sent off to a lab where a dental technician created devices to repair, replace, or better align your teeth. Today the use of impression materials is behind us, instead we use intraoral cameras, scanners and CAD/CAM technology. The scanners make a 3D digital image of your mouth that can be used to design a prosthesis (crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, bridges, implant-supported restorations, or dentures), and the prosthesis is then either milled out of a solid block of porcelain, zirconium, metal or a combination, or a model may be printed out of acrylic material. All of which can be milled or printed in house, usually in a single visit, so say goodbye to gooey impressions and say hello to dental solutions in a single visit.

Digitally guided implant surgery, This relatively new innovation isn’t widely used yet. It helps dental professionals identify the most precise and effective placement of an implant in correlation to your natural teeth, jaw and soft tissue using an intraoral scan. A 3D x-ray and digital imaging can be used to create a guide that allows the placement of implants in minutes.

In Summary. Digital technology is accelerating rapidly, by harnessing this technology we can achieve more reliable and comfortable dental outcomes and that’s something everyone can smile about.

Call the caring team at Sundial Dental to find out more about digital dentistry and its applications for your dental health today 6583 3533 or 6585 2015.

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New pathology collection centre

Opening soon

Port Macquarie 52 Lord Street

Mon–Fri: 7.30 am–5 pm Saturday: 7.30 am–12.30 pm

ƒ Onsite parking

ƒ Open Saturday mornings

ƒ Appointments available for all tests

ƒ Bulk billing available

ƒ All pathology request forms accepted

For a listing of other DHM collection centre locations, visit dhm.com.au

143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425

info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au

Hi Lucinda. What inspired you to organise a Women’s Health Expo? Is there a specific need in the community that motivated you?

Women’s Health Week occurs every year, and after working as a Community Hearing Adviser for Hearing Australia in the region for the last 15 years, I noticed that there were never any local events organised. Jean Hailes is a women’s health organisation that supports all women’s health needs. I was made aware of this organisation several months ago. I jumped on their website and decided to host an event for Women’s Health Week. So rather than just offering one service, I decided it would be more beneficial to the community to have a variety of organisations that address a range of different health concerns.

Women’s health covers a wide range of topics. Could you provide an overview of the main focus areas the expo will address?

Health

LUCINDA POTTER expo

The main focus of the expo is to provide a variety of services offering information to ladies about all aspects of women’s health. There will be some health checks available on the day, although due to privacy, most will be done later. There is a range of services available on the day, including BreastScreen, Hearing Australia, Hastings Physio and Health, Omnicare, Garden Village Wellbeing Centre, Priceline Port Macquarie, Lachlan Medical Centres, Women’s Health Nurse, Services Australia and Baptist Care. Health has many facets to it, and the expo aims to cover as many as possible, including mental health, well-being, support services, health checks and general women’s health issues. What outcomes or benefits do you hope participants will benefit from the event?

Most of these volunteers have unfortunately all suffered from several different health issues, which has made them incapable of remaining in the workplace.

It will be a one-stop shop for women to gather relevant information about the various services available in the area to support specific health needs and get together for a complimentary tea or coffee and a tasty snack which have been kindly donated by the organisations attending. Some lucky ones will also walk away with lucky door prizes. These have been kindly donated by the organisations attending the expo. Have you contacted any organisations, healthcare professionals, or experts to participate in the event?

I have reached out to local organisations to ensure that we can cover all the facets of women’s health. When looking at support for the expo, it was important to me that there was a good range and not multiple of the same types. So this year being the

Lucinda Potter is a Community Hearing Adviser for Hearing Australia here in Port Macquarie, and she noticed a lack of events providing information for women about their health and what services are available to them, so she decided to get an expo up and running for Women’s Health Week 2023.

first year I have kept it to a maximum of 10 organisations. I have reached out to the council for an officiate to open the day and have managed to get Councillor Danielle Maltman to open the expo at 10 am on Tuesday, 5th September. I have also reached out to some lovely ladies to volunteer to assist with serving the complimentary tea, coffee and snacks. Most of these volunteers have unfortunately all suffered from several different health issues, which has made them incapable of remaining in the workplace. They are my beautiful friends who have offered their time to assist with the expo. What activities, workshops, or presentations will you include in the expo?

There will be free hearing checks provided by Hearing Australia, blood pressure and diabetes screenings by Priceline Pharmacy Port Macquarie. Each organisation will provide an information table on services available and how to access them. The theme for Women’s Health Week 2023 is “ Grow your Knowledge”. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health has led women’s health in Australia for over 30 years. They provide evidence-based, accessible health information for all women, girls and gender-diverse people. Visit jeanhailes.org.au. There will be numerous information booklets available on the day provided by Jean Hailes. Women’s health can sometimes be a sensitive or personal subject. How do you create a safe and inclusive environment where attendees feel comfortable discussing their health concerns?

The amount of organisations attending has been limited to ensure that a range of health needs are covered and also to make it a more personal and inclusive environment. The main focus is to “Grow Your Knowledge”, so

the information will be provided on the day, and those who would like to look into services will be booked in later for oneon-one appointments. In what ways do you see this Women’s Health Expo contributing to the larger conversation around women’s health and wellness?

We’re proud to support Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week by helping women grow their knowledge to make informed decisions about their health - womenshealthweek.com.au. Creating awareness of the resources available to the community both locally and beyond to assist women to be more open to addressing issues and putting themselves first. The more publicity around women’s health there is, the more women can realise that there are many accessible services available to assist in improving mental, physical and general health needs.

Looking ahead, do you envision the Women’s Health Expo becoming an annual event?

I would love to make it an annual event. This

year I have arranged two expos, one in Port Macquarie and one in Kempsey. We have started by using the CWA rooms in both locations. I thought this would be a perfect start using the Country Women’s Association rooms in both Port Macquarie and Kempsey. The main objective this year was to bring a variety of organisations together and to keep the costs minimal so that we can provide the expo for free to women. We are hoping that the event is well supported and that it will become an annual event during Women’s Health Week each year.

How do you plan to build on the success of the first expo in the years to come?

After completing the expos in Port Macquarie and Kempsey, I will be evaluating the success of the event and planning for 2024. Hopefully, it will be an event that grows each year. In 2024 I will also seek local council support and assistance for the event, so we can look at larger venues to hold the events. So come on down and support the 2023 Women’s Health Expo at CWA Rooms on Town Green Port Macquarie on Tuesday, 5th September 10-2pm or at the Kempsey CWA rooms at 3 John St Kempsey on Wednesday, 6th September 10-2pm.

Creating awareness of the resources available to the community both locally and beyond to assist women to be more open to addressing issues and putting themselves first.

DAVIS DENTAL

DONNA KIEL

What is a prosthetist and what services do you offer? As a dental prosthetist I focus on new complete and partial dentures, relines, repairs and additions, mouthguards and take-home bleaching kits.

My job as a prosthetist is to go through the complete process of any given treatment that I offer. This starts with a comprehensive consultation where we discuss your needs.  Once we have agreed on a treatment plan we then go through the steps of the treatment which generally goes over a series of appointments. All our lab work is custom made in house using the best materials and equipment to ensure the highest level of quality.

What steps do you take to ensure patient comfort during dental procedures? I provide a calm, relaxed and friendly atmosphere right from greeting my patient, informing them of what the procedure involves and listening to any concerns and answering questions to alleviate any anxiousness. I perform the procedures in a gentle and caring nature.

What innovative technologies and treatments are you excited about in the field of dentistry? Our practice has a Trios intra oral scanner which is great for those patients that do not tolerate the traditional method of taking impressions. This scanner takes accurate records of the teeth and gums so a computer generated image and printed model can be created using our 3D printer. My training is ongoing which allows me to keep up with the latest techniques in computer aided design and manufacturing but at the same time I still use the original process of hand crafting dentures which gives a great balance of both.

DAVIS DENTAL

DR CRISTIANE RIBEIRO

What areas of dentistry do you specialise in? I would say that my goal is to reconstruct smiles and improve life quality through functional rehabilitation. At Davis Dental we are specialists in dental implants, crowns and bridges, removable dentures and smiles makeover utilsing a plethora of technologies and innovative dental materials.

I have been busy and very excited doing a Master's Degree in Implantology at Goethe University in Frankfurt - Germany. This adds to my previous experience of having graduated in Brazil 18 years ago before relocating to Australia. I feel honoured to work with Dr Scott Davis in Port Macquarie. Can you discuss the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings? When I finalise a case I explain to my patients that I have done my bit and they are now responsible for maintaining what we have achieved, it is team work. It is my responsibility to motivate the patient to not only properly clean and care for their new teeth, but also to come back for regular reviews. This includes wearing occlusal devices to protect their teeth from wear if required, flossing and brushing and seeing their hygienist regularly among other instructions we give to patients. We provide 6 monthly reviews at no cost.

What innovative technologies and treatments are you excited about in the field of dentistry? I am very spoiled at Davis Dental as I can work with quality materials, the most advanced digital technology, and an inhouse dental laboratory with amazing girls that are perfectionists. This makes my job so much smoother and patient satisfaction is beyond expectation. Dr Davis is up to date with any dental topic, technique and dental technology there is available. It is a true privilege to be part of this family.

Hayden Copping has wanted to compete in the Paddleboard Molokai To Oahu World Championships in Hawaii for some years now. He recently made the trip over and not only did he complete the race (a huge challenge in itself), he won!! He is now World Champion of one of the most difficult races in the world.

COPPING HAYDEN

Hi Hayden. When did you first get on a paddle board and what do you love about it?

I first paddled this specific type of board about 6 years ago. These boards are built for speed. There are no handles, no leg ropes and it’s shaped like a bullet, you just have to do your best to hold on! I love the challenge and the adrenaline rush. I also love being completely alone out in the water, being at peace and interacting with all the marine life … both the good and the bad.

You’ve been involved with Surf Life

Saving for a while now, can you tell us a bit about your involvement and how it’s shaped your relationship with the ocean and watersports?

I’ve been tied up with the Surf Life Saving movement for as long as I can remember.

I’ve raced all my life at a very high level representing the state and claiming both state and national titles along the way. The ocean has this calming but unpredictable nature about it. You never feel in control which is so rare and that’s what I love about it. The ocean doesn’t care who you are, you get in the wrong position, and she’ll humble you.

You recently completed the Paddleboard

Molokai To Oahu World Championships in Hawaii, a goal you set yourself some time ago. How did you find out about this race and what made you want to compete?

I’ve been asked this question a lot. “How did you first find out about this race?”. I wish I had a good answer … It’s always been in my head, and I don’t know its origins. I wanted to race it as it’s ranked in the top seven races in the world, full stop! That’s across all sports and all races, amplifying the difficulty of this race. I love pushing my body to its absolute limits, I wanted to feel that hurt. To experience so much pain whilst being surrounded by so much natural beauty, it’s indescribable. You

are in such a dark place mentally, but you look around and you realise how beautiful life is. For me it was a spiritual journey as much as a physical one.

You not only finished but you are officially the World Champion!

Congratulations! How did it feel to realise you had won?

Unreal … like it doesn’t feel real. Like most kids all I wanted was to be a world champ and that was always such a farfetched dream, but to be a world champion; I can’t describe it. It is unbelievable. It’s that pinch yourself moment. What was the most challenging thing about this race?

There were so many challenges both physically and mentally throughout the race it’s hard to pick one. The main one is probably finding the little voice in your head to keep going even though everything in your body is screaming for you to stop. Everything hurts! But there’s no pulling out of this race. You get a one-way flight to Molokai and then you paddle back. There’s no race quite like it. Once you land on Molokai the enormity of the challenge sets in and you know you’re in for a big day. Being in the open ocean there are so many lines you can take. I had no idea where I positioned

until about 1km from the finish when I heard over the load speaker “and here comes the new world champion.” So not having the time to scope the competition and see where I was positioned was difficult to say the least. I was just paddling flat stick in the fear that someone could pass me at any stage without me even knowing.

You work as a radiotherapist when you’re working full time in a fairly demanding role, how do you like to incorporate training and time on the water into your schedule?

Look, it's hard. I work as both an Associate Lecturer for Newcastle Uni and as a Radiation Therapist at the Base Hospital here in Port. Both are very time consuming and demanding roles. At times I would get on the water before first light and paddle in the river with just the light from the streetlights and the buildings able to direct me and once there would be enough light I would head out to sea. I would just try and do as much as I could either side of working hours. I would have loved to train more and I was nervous that I might have not done enough but luckily that

was not the case. What was your training routine like leading up to the Molokai To Oahu event? It consisted of a minimum of 3 paddles a week, varying from 1-5hrs. I would try and get the ‘big’ one completed on the weekend, and this ranged from 3 hours up. Every fortnight I would travel down to Newcastle and train with a couple of guys (Stewart McLachlan & Callum Sutton) to see how I was looking and if the solo training I was doing up here was sufficient. Along with this I cross trained in the gym, I ran, swam and surfed. So, all in all, I trained every morning and every afternoon except for Sunday (being my rest day) for 7 months straight. So, a lot of hard work!!

Have you set yourself any new goals for the future yet?

I would really love to go back over there and have the opportunity to defend the title. Very few have won the race but even fewer have won multiple. I know I made a few mistakes out there too so I’m also hunting “the perfect race.” Obviously financially is the biggest challenge and it’s going to be hard to get back. I’ve already started saving but look, we will see how it goes.

Thanks Hayden.

You are in such a dark place mentally, but you look around and you realise how beautiful life is. For me it was a spiritual journey as much as a physical one.

The world of sports has witnessed a monumental shift in recent years, with women's participation taking centre stage. The Women's World Cup has provided our young girls with inspiring Australian role models, offering them a glimpse of the incredible potential and achievements of female athletes. This month let's chat about the importance of exercise starting from a young age.

We believe in encouraging women of all ages to engage in exercise that feels right for them. We provide a judgement-free, nurturing environment to help create healthy habits that last a lifetime. Our mission is to empower women to embrace their bodies, build confidence, and cultivate a positive relationship with exercise.

Physical activity during younger and teen years plays a pivotal role in promoting robust bone health. As young girls engage in activities like running, jumping, and sports, they stimulate the bones to become denser and stronger. This effect is particularly critical during adolescence when the body is still growing and developing. Regular exercise increases bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.

Exercise exerts a positive influence on hormone regulation, a critical aspect of overall health and helps balance hormones, aiding in the management of menstrual cycles and potentially

alleviating menstrual discomfort. Engaging in sports can also bolster self-esteem and selfconfidence during these hormonal fluctuations, empowering young girls to embrace their bodies and remain active despite challenges. The connection between exercise and mental health is profound, particularly for adolescents navigating the complexities of teenage years. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of depression. In a society where body image and self-esteem concerns can hinder participation, exercise provides a safe space for girls to channel their energy positively, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. The camaraderie found in team sports also nurtures a strong social support system, crucial for maintaining mental well-being.

Despite the numerous benefits of exercise, drop-out rates among teenage girls remains a significant concern. Body image issues, lack of body confidence, and the emergence of competing priorities often lead to diminished sports participation. The pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards can deter young girls from engaging in physical activities, leading to missed opportunities for overall well-being. It is crucial to counteract these challenges by promoting body positivity, self-acceptance, and creating inclusive environments where girls can thrive without fear of judgement, a place where

they are comfortable to be themselves. The rise of female athletes on the global stage, exemplified by events like the Women's World Cup, and in Australia our Women's AFL and various League codes, offer a beacon of hope and opportunity for our young girls. These female athletes serve as powerful role models, encouraging girls to stay engaged in sports and embrace physical activity as a normal and healthy part of life.

The habits and disciplines developed from reguar exercise during early years often continue into later life, contributing to longevity, vitality, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. By nurturing a love for physical activity, girls are better equipped to navigate the challenges that come with ageing, maintaining independence, and a higher quality of life.

The journey from childhood to adulthood is marked by growth, discovery, and the pursuit of one's potential. Exercise plays an instrumental role in shaping this journey, equipping young girls with the tools they need to flourish physically, mentally, and emotionally. As we celebrate the achievements of female athletes worldwide, let us be inspired to cultivate a culture of fitness, self-acceptance, and empowerment for the generations to come. Through these efforts, we can ensure that exercise remains a lifelong companion, guiding women through all stages of life with strength and resilience.

FROM MISS MOTIVATOR with RACHEL LEMAN UPDATE

Welcome to the September Fitness Update. Firstly, how awesome has the World Cup Soccer been during August, so much inspiration and excitement from those female athletes.

Hi, I’m Jas, I am 17 and I am an elite athlete. I am currently training with the ParaMatildas, Australia’s first national team for women and girls with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury and symptoms of stroke. I have massive goals and I am determined to achieve them. I have a disability, which is a major part of my life, but it does not hold me back. I have Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy and low vision. These things work against me sometimes, but the people I have met through my journey and the things I have achieved and will continue to achieve make me turn all the negatives around and run with the positives.

Hi Jas. Can you tell us a bit about how you got into playing soccer and what you love about it?

I first played soccer as a little 5-year-old, then my life became all about athletics for me.

I represented my clubs and schools at a national level and then through COVID lockdowns I found training a little isolating and lonely. I then decided to pursue a team sport and went back to my love of soccer. You recently attended a camp in Sydney with the ParaMatildas, can you tell us how you came to be selected for this program?

I was attending training in Sydney with Football NSW and training locally with my coach and from there I was selected by the head coach of the ParaMatildas - Kelly Stirton. So, I could guess you could say always put

in your best as you never know who is watching.

I have also just come back from my second camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, which was a little colder but equally amazing and I am so proud to be a part of both of these national camps. What did it feel like to hear you had been selected for these camps?

It was a dream come true. I was so happy, excited and proud. I know I train hard and give 120%, so it was amazing to see what happens when you try hard. What were some of the things you enjoyed most about the camps and what do you feel you’ve taken away from the experience?

I enjoyed being part of the team mostly. The other players are people I have looked up to and to be learning and training with them side by side was amazing. I love the training drills, the bonding team time and definitely the food.

Do you have any further plans moving forward with the ParaMatildas?

Plans, I guess are my goals. My number one focus is to train hard and do what I need to be in the running for a spot on the team for the Asian Cup, held in Australia later this year. It's amazing being a part of the national team, but to finally be able to put that jersey on with my name on the back, well that is going to be next level amazing.

I hope to show people from all backgrounds and walks of life that you CAN if you want it bad enough. Don’t let anything hold you back.

What was it like for you to meet and train with other women who are both passionate about football and also have similar challenges to you?

It is amazing! We are like a family. We all help each other when needed and we are all looking out for one another and help each other become the best version of ourselves

on and off the field. What sort of training have you been doing recently?

I train 5 days a week. I do my training drills, strength training, cardio and anything I can to help me achieve my dreams and goals. I also do mental training as we can be strong physically, but what people forget is we also need to have our head in the game and to learn strategies to not only move forward in our goals, but to protect us from not over training, deal with setbacks and the fact we can't always win.

What are some of your hopes and dreams for your future in sport? Where would you love to see yourself in the

next few years?

The next five years, well I will be 22 years old, so still quite a young player. I see myself as part of the ParaMatildas team and hopefully one day to be able to help and mentor those players coming through and to help and motivate them to also achieve their dreams.

And as someone with a disability, what message do you hope your success shows the greater community?

I hope to show people from all backgrounds and walks of life that you CAN if you want it bad enough. If you have dreams and goals and someone that believes in you, and this can be you as you are your biggest supporter and advocate that YOU CAN, don’t let anything hold you back.

Thanks Jaz

ROWING

FOR FUN AND FITNESS

Port Macquarie Rowing Club members have enjoyed rowing on the beautiful Hastings River for well over 40 years.

The Club has recently received a grant from the NSW Department of Sport under its Sporty Grants Program to encourage greater participation in the sport of rowing. The aim is to promote rowing as a fun and healthy activity for all ages and genders, particularly junior girls and their mothers and families. The Program will commence with a free ‘Come and Try’ day on Sunday 10th of September at 8 am to give new rowers an idea of what is involved in the sport of rowing. The session will end with a riverside BBQ breakfast. For those who enjoy the experience, or for anyone who would like to try something new, this day will be

followed by a Learn to Row Course of 6 sessions over three weeks commencing the following Sunday on the 17th of September. The cost for this 6 week course will be $120.

The aim is to encourage regular and on-going participation in sport and increase access for women, girls and anyone looking for a new sporting challenge. Rowing has great health benefits. It is a low impact sport using nearly all muscle groups and suitable for a broad age and height range. Because rowing is an on water activity participants must be reasonably competent swimmers.

We look forward to seeing you at the rowing club at Hibbard Drive.

The Garden Village Home Care Team travel across the region to bring professional nursing and home care services to people over 65 in their own home. Support Worker Caryll Maker has worked for Garden Village for three years and loves the diversity of the role, working with new clients and being part of a growing team. We chatted with Caryll to find out about a typical day.

Caryll, how do you usually begin your day? It’s common to start the morning supporting a client with cleaning or personal care. Home Care support also gives me the opportunity to embrace the outdoor Port Macquarie lifestyle. My day often begins with accompanying a client, who is blind, for a lovely walk on the breakwall where he used to spend a lot of time fishing. He will tell me about all the different ways of catching fish.

How do you establish a trusting environment with your clients? Creating a comfortable and trusting environment is so important to our team. Our clients are delightful individuals with fascinating life stories which makes finding common ground easy. My South African background often sparks conversations about travel and the world's incredible wildlife.

Garden Village

Have you made any other special connections with clients? I support Graeme who has early onset dementia, accompanying him to his favourite places like Ukulele club and lawn bowls, we have a similar sense of humour. Often there are times I take Graeme to bowls and have a delicious lunch at the Wauchope Bowling Green. Supporting clients with community access also provides respite to the people who care for them every day.

The Home Care team can travel anywhere in the Greater Port Macquarie region. We service Port Macquarie to Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, Laurieton and now Wauchope. From companionship and domestic assistance through to medication support and personal care - every day offers variety.

What areas do you travel to in the region? The Home Care team can travel anywhere in the Greater Port Macquarie region. We service Port Macquarie to Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, Laurieton and now Wauchope. From companionship and domestic assistance through to medication support and personal care - every day offers variety.

How do people access Home Care with

Garden Village? Anyone with a Home Care Package is welcome to access Garden Village support and the team can assist you through the My Aged Care Process. The first step is to visit the My Aged Care website to see what package you are eligible for then contact us to get started. We are here to help. What aspects of working with Garden Village do you find fulfilling? I enjoy being part of a great team that is dedicated to making a difference for people who are experiencing loneliness or in need of care and support to enhance their lifestyle and wellbeing. When do you recommend people access Home Care supports? We encourage people to seek support early before a health issue happens or someone can suddenly no longer manage on their own. Seeking support early gives you peace of mind and time to get to know the services that suit you most and complement your lifestyle.

THE GARDEN VILLAGE HOME CARE TEAM GROWS TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY

CRAIG DIXON

GEMLIFE

What are the main features and amenities that the GemLife Community offers for individuals over 50? GemLife Rainbow Beach offers so much for the over 50s. The heart of the community is our luxurious Country Club, which is currently under construction. When completed, the facility will feature a fully equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts, as well as a spa, sauna, and games room.

In addition to a bar and lounge, the Country Club will be home to a luxury cinema, a ten-pin bowling alley and indoor magnesium swimming pool with spa.

A standout feature will be a top-floor undercover lawn bowls green with its own lounge and sundeck area from which homeowners can take in peaceful bushland views and enjoy a drink with friends and neighbours.

Also at the resort, homeowners can enjoy two summer houses with resort-style recreational areas. The completed summer house features a pool, outdoor entertainment area, barbecues, and a poolside sunlounge area.

Can you describe the types of accommodations available? GemLife Rainbow Beach has a range of single storey homes that are two bedrooms plus a multifunction room and contain a luxurious designer kitchen with walk in pantry and premium European appliances. The spacious open-plan living room and dining spaces open

out on a generous alfresco area and are perfect for barbecues and entertaining the family. In the resort’s third and final stage, two stunning new home designs have been released. The two-storey home designs offer multiple facades and colour scheme options, feature two bedrooms plus a multipurpose room, three bathrooms and a powder room, ultra-high ceilings, and beautifully designed open-plan living areas. They also have lovely large balconies to capture coastal breezes. Other features include designer kitchens with roomy walk-in pantries, upstairs kitchenettes, plenty of storage space, plus double garages. How does Gem Life balance privacy and social engagement for their residents? GemLife homeowners can be as active or private as they wish. Our homes provide a relaxing retreat and yet have plenty of room to hold gatherings with family and to welcome overnight guests. Many homeowners use the multipurpose room as either a study or craft room.

Our active over 50s organise regular gettogethers in the resort either for lunches, dinners or happy hours as well as resident organised fitness classes and arts and crafts groups. In addition, there are regular trips around the beautiful Mid North Coast. Tell us about the architectural and interior design of the resort and the homes? GemLife resorts are architecturally designed for the way today’s active over 50s prefer to live. Featuring spacious open-plan designs, the homes also feature bedrooms with walk-in

pantry. Each home boasts a sizable alfresco area perfect for relaxing.

Pulling the look together for the homes and the beautiful resort facilities is our accomplished interior design team who take inspiration from the natural environment and local lifestyle.

Are there any options for individuals to personalise their living spaces within GemLife? GemLife offers a range of home designs that can be customised with a choice of façades and selecting from expertly curated interior design colour schemes.

And of course, GemLife homeowners can decorate the inside of their homes as they wish.

How does the location of GemLife contribute to the overall experience for residents? GemLife resorts are in some of the most sought-after retirement locations around Australia. GemLife Rainbow Beach was especially chosen for its beautiful coastal location and proximity to nearby beaches, parks, services and shopping in Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, and Port Macquarie.

What future developments or improvements are planned to enhance the GemLife living experience for over 50s? GemLife homes are already energy efficient, but homeowners will soon experience even lower power bills thanks to the industryleading Virtual Power Plant program. Trialled at one of its Queensland resorts, and rolling out to all GemLife communities, some of our homeowners are reporting zero-dollar power bills.

wardrobes, while the kitchens boast ample drawers and the convenience of a walk-in

Kathleen was looking for a different role within aged care and came across our Care Facilitator position for BaptistCare at home around November 2020. Kathleen has now worked here for almost 3 years, and is a prime example of how we help clients live their best life, at home.

Our values are the fore drivers of an excellent customer experience. It’s what they value most, and so, we also value it most. It’s in this way that they become shared values – values that we cherish and deliver to our customers in each and every interaction.

People First. After doing research online, Kathleen found a lot of reviews that said BaptistCare was an inclusive workplace with a good work life balance.

Meet Kathleen from BaptistCare at home

“I was keen to start my role as Care Facilitator and felt extremely grateful for the opportunity” Kathleen reflects. “Each day brought me more confidence in my manager and colleagues as they are very supportive.” We Care. Kathleen’s day-to-day is usually filled with client phone calls, doing home visits for any support clients may need, and completing Allied Health reports. When asked to look back and remember something that will stick with her in this role, she stated: “I love knowing that I can and have helped clients when they have needed it.” Kathleen sees every day as a blessing and each day is rewarding. At BaptistCare we are passionate about creating strong and caring communities that value personal well-being and independence. When these values are shared, it has the

potential to transform lives. Kathleen is dedicated to ensuring she gets to know the clients and what is important to them. All our staff are trained and understand the challenges clients can face and are dedicated to assisting our clients to live their best life whilst living at home in their community. We encourage our clients to be independent by continuing to participate within their community. It’s what makes BaptistCare different, we’re here because we care. We are happy to announce that we are now servicing Port Macquarie. Book your free consultation with us today. You can also contact us if you’re looking to work in aged care.

1300 275 227 Baptistcare.org.au/home-care

“Best place I’ve ever worked.”

Unmatched Expertise for Superior Care

At MBC Nursing Agency, we understand the importance of having highly trained and experienced care givers by your side. Our team consists of experts in the field who provide only the best care tailored to your specific needs. From the moment you embark on your journey into the caring world, our utmost priority is your safety and security. We have implemented comprehensive safety protocols including background checks, an in-house Nursing educator who

provides regular education and training to our staff to give you and your loved one’s peace of mind.

With MBC Nursing Agency, rest assured that you will receive unparalleled expertise and exceptional care at every step.

Across all we aim to holistically enhance the quality of life of seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes whilst receiving professional care.

MBC Nursing Agency provide caring and friendly staff, with the necessary skills to provide support or supervision with the following:

Home care support

• Social support

• Respite: In home and emergency

• Bed making

• Shopping

• Meal preparation

• Laundering

• Light house work

In-home nursing

• General nursing care

• Personal care such as showering

• Medication assistance/supervision

• Wound care – acute or chronic

• Injections

• Post hospital care

• Palliative support

• Chronic health care support

• Dementia care

• Disability support work

• Respite

Sarah Young Head of Nursing

Cherie Siciliano NDIS Coordinator

Kylie Hodkinson Nursing Coordinator

Nichole Young Nursing Coordinator

Kylie Ham - Nurse Educator and Registered Nurse

Serah Aber Trainee NDIS Coordinator

Laura Munro Nursing Coordinator

Amy Cordell After Hours and Compliance

Sarah Condello Recruitment Consultant

Rachel Thorburn Nursing Coordinator

DJ Apanui Nursing Project Coordinator

Meet The Team

Our Accommodation

Our contemporary accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to include home comforts and all the bells and whistles you would expect from an innovative, modern design. The bright, private rooms all feature ensuite bathrooms, ample storage and space to welcome family and friends or savour a good book while overlooking our stunning gardens.

Residents can relax in beautifully landscaped courtyards or spacious terraces, have a baristamade coffee in our ‘Jolly Nose’ cafe or enjoy a movie at the cinema.

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

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

The death of a loved one is not an easy subject to deal with – here at Highfields Manor we provide end of life care and support residents and their families at this emotionally challenging and stressful time. The aim of our palliative care is to achieve the best possible quality of life for the person, their family and carers.

Four stunning display homes: the Shelley, Blue Gum, Watonga and Flame Tree, have been carefully designed with raked ceilings, dormer windows and open living areas to create a sense of light and space.

Their contemporary, elegant country feel, reflects the country style of Glenfern’s clubhouse. The Shelley is a light-filled and welcoming home with comfortable and flexible living spaces. Homeowners who enjoy entertaining will love the well-designed kitchen, open living area and spacious alfresco space. Blue Gum has an elegant country feel with accents of wood and earthy tones. The master bedroom has a walk-in robe and an oversized ensuite and there is also a study area. This generous open plan home also has spacious living areas and a well-equipped kitchen.

The Watonga is a comfortable home

LIVING THE retirement DREAM

AT GLENFERN

Port Macquarie has a new over 50s community! This new Hometown Australia Community offers homeowners a host of first-rate amenities in a beautiful bushland setting, just ten minutes from the heart of Port Macquarie.

without sacrificing space and style. The king-sized master suite has a walk-in robe and ensuite and the guest bedroom has a built-in robe and separate bathroom. The Watonga design has extra touches including abundant storage and a lovely outdoor entertaining space.

Flame Tree has a fresh, modern country feel with a light and natural colour palette. The kitchen has been designed

with the entertainer in mind with quality appliances and opening on to a large alfresco entertaining area.

Additional home models are also available with custom options and two-story designs with an internal lift.

For more information or to book a tour please contact Kim on 02 7255 2900 or visit Hometownaustralia.com.au to learn more.

RASA KABAILA

LEGAL Light

with

Section 387(a) of the Fair Work Act 2009, provides that a reason for dismissal of an employee must be “sound, defensible or well founded”. A reason which is “capricious, fanciful, spiteful or prejudiced” cannot be a valid reason. The following are cases where employees claimed that they had been unfairly dismissed. Was the dismissal fair or unfair?

Brown v Aristocrat Technologies [2005]

AIRC 656

Brown attended a work function which was fully catered (including refreshments). Brown remembered waking in hospital the following morning with “a severe headache unlike any he had experienced before”. Brown arrived at the party 15 minutes before it started and 12-15 beers later he was the last to leave. Wheatley brought his own spirits to the function because he preferred spirits to beer. At 10:15pm, Brown was on the balcony urinating onto the diners in the restaurant below. Wheatley gave him a clip over the ear and talked Brown into paying (using his personal credit card) for the meals of the affected (and understandably unhappy) guests on the lower level, before multiple scuffles ensued between Brown and Wheatley resulting in the police being called. Brown sought reinstatement after his dismissal.

Keenan v Leighton Boral Amey NSW Pty Ltd [2015] FWC 3156

Keenan sought reinstatement after his dismissal for behaviour at a work function. He had a few beers before he got to the function, then had another 10 plus some spirits once he got there, before telling the General Manager and the board members to “get f*cked”. He then tried to engage with multiple female employees, including kissing one on the mouth without warning, and the following exchange:

Keenan: “My mission tonight is to find out what colour knickers you have on.”

Employee: “They are white, touch my skirt and I’ll kill you.”

The case of Ms XXX, full bench of the AIRC [2008] AIRCFB 15

In this case, during the course of the night in a hotel, Ms XXX was involved in rowdy behaviour and then bathed with two other employees of Telstra’s Miranda store and had sexual intercourse with one of the other employees in view and/or earshot of three other employees. One of the employees complained about Ms XXX behaviour to the Assistant Manager and Ms XXX was dismissed. Ms XXX sought reinstatement.

McDaid v Future Engineering and Communication Pty Ltd

[2016] FWC 343

McDaid sought an unfair dismissal remedy following his termination for conduct at his employer’s Christmas party. Unlimited alcohol and food was provided for the employees in attendance. There was a swimming pool at the premises. McDaid had a robust disagreement with another employee, poking him in the chest and acting aggressively before ultimately pushing him into the swimming pool whilst fully clothed. Mr McDaid told the other employee to “f*ck off” to which the other employee wittily retorted “no, you f*ck off”. This eventually descended into a physical altercation which was recorded on CCTV.

In case you were wondering, none of the employees’ claims ultimately succeeded. An employer has the right to dismiss an employee for misconduct but the employee must be given a chance to address any allegations of misconduct. Employment law is complex. If you have any issues with respect to your employment or employees, please contact me at Priest Legal.

02 6583 1777 Priestlegal.com.au

FROM PRIEST LEGAL

JEREMY BRIGDEN

An employer has the right to dismiss an employee for misconduct but the employee must be given a chance to address any allegations of misconduct.

BUSINESS VOICE

with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

The feel of spring is in the air and we have so much to be thankful for living in this beautiful part of the world. This is a great time of year to “Spring Clean” your business and have it looking great for the busy spring/summer trading season. Also a great time to think about who you can collaborate with in business to put together deals or bundles to benefit your businesses as well as tourists and locals alike. Maybe some great deals for Christmas presents or promotions. To give you an idea a few years ago I collaborated with a photographer and we sent out a Christmas card to all of my clients. The card had a voucher inside, as my Christmas gift, which entitled my clients to a free photo session from which they received a postcard size photo. Many clients took up the offer and then purchased more photos for themselves plus family for Christmas. This built great relationships for me with my clients as referral business and also helped the photographer increase her business and tapping into a different client base. These strategic alliances are great business builders. Who can you join with for mutual benefit?

We are very excited to be bringing the Australian Institute of Company Directors course to Port Macquarie from 23rd-27th October. This is the first time that we have

been able to bring this to a regional area. Usually you would have to travel to Sydney for the week to take part. This assists our participants to save on the expenses of travel and accommodation costs. Some of the benefits of the course are elevating your board’s performance, strengthening your board’s governance capabilities, fostering your governing team’s cohesive growth and boosting your board’s sector specific expertise. It covers topics such as Governance, Legal Obligations, Risk & Strategy, Financial Literacy & Performance and Achieving Board Effectiveness. If you are part of a Board or a Senior Executive this is a great opportunity not to be missed. Please contact us at executive@businesspmq.com. au for more information.

September 13th we will be holding another Business Accelerator Working Lunch with Susan Judd from HR Culture as our guest presenter. Susan will be focussing on the EI Effect (emotional intelligence) and how import it is in our business especially when dealing with staff, team selection and needs. Susan is a highly respected trainer for both corporate and SME businesses and has recently been touring the state delivering her powerful workshops. We are very fortunate that Susan and her family chose to live in Port Macquarie. Please register at www. businessportmacquarie.com.au. Lunch is provided.

September 15th we look forward to attending Business NSW Regional Business Awards. Congratulations to all of the finalists from the Hastings area. We look forward to supporting you all on the night. September 19th our network event focuses on security in your business and keeping it safe. We will also be holding our AGM.

Don’t forget to mark in your diary 1st November for our Annual Westpac Rescue Helicopter Golf Day to be held at Wauchope Country Club. Lots of great prizes and fun to be had on the day so get your team together now to support this worthwhile cause that is there for all should the need arise. Thank you to Oxley Insurance Brokers who are sponsors on the day.

With the year rushing past so fast it is that time of year again when we organise our New Years Eve Fireworks for the community. To make this possible we are calling on business sponsors. If you would like to take part in this fabulous event please contact me on 0414 772 771 or email me at president@ businesspmq.com.au.

Quote for the month - “Days are expensive. When you spend a day you have one less day to spend. So make sure you spend each one wisely.”- Jim Rohn

Until next month

Alex

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

Kabaila Ra

Put Some Concrete in your Breakfast: Tales from Contemporary Nursing shares the true, inspiring and truly challenging elements of the role – how does this book and your journey look to inspire nurses of the future?

I wrote the book to share the honest stories of nurses; the sad, the funny, the heart-warming and the bizarre. There is a significant difference between the politically correct version of a workday that a nurse tells someone at a dinner party compared to the reality. Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, which was appreciated even more during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through these stories, I hope the public can better recognise the valuable work that nurses do. Importantly, the book demonstrates that although nursing is a tough profession, it’s so, so rewarding. I hope to encourage people who are considering a career in nursing, to take the path - you can really make a difference.

Who and/or what inspired you to take on this journey in nursing leading to where you are today?

In Grade 10, I did work experience at a

paediatric ward in NSW. This was followed by work experience at a war veterans’ home, where I later became an employee whilst studying. I was the youngest personal carer they had employed. The work was hard and I didn’t enjoy it straight away, however, in time, I could see how meaningful the work was, despite how challenging it was. At that point, I knew that no other work could compare with that of helping others.

You have honed your craft and care for others through some hard work and long nights studying, obtaining multiple diplomas, degrees and masters to enable your work as a Registered Nurse, Mental Health Practitioner and Palliative Care Specialist. How has this multifaceted learning assisted you to be a successful health practitioner?

Education, training and learning in my eyes, are lifelong and are essential for professional growth. Education doesn’t always have to be formal, I’m learning every day in my work. In my opinion, a good clinician never succumbs to thinking they know everything. They should be doing their own self-directed research as well as critical analysis and perspective taking from their colleagues, and this is the approach I take. Having formal education as a

foundation has helped me feel confident that my clinical practice is underpinned by a strong evidence base.

In 2022, you took a leap of faith and launched your own business Broadleaf HNP as a Nurse Practioner specialising in mental health outside of the traditional clinical environment. What was the driver behind this decision and how do you hope to make an impact as a micro business in our regional community?

I’m really grateful for the ten years of clinical experience I’ve had in the public sector. I’ve been able to work in so many different clinical areas and have learned so much from every area. I’ve also had so many beautiful, supportive colleagues and mentors through that journey. I made the decision to work on my own to hone my practice to be the way I felt it ran best, without bureaucracy. There is a huge need for mental health service in our community, I see a broad range of clients for a broad range of needs. I provide assessment, treatment and therapy in the mental health domain face to face and via telehealth across the Mid North Coast and Australia. My aim in my practice is to always keep the holistic needs of the individual paramount.

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Rasa Kabaila wears many hats challenging the traditional narrative and beliefs around nursing. Blending her ability and experience as a nurse practitioner, business owner and writer she shares the honest, raw, real and inspiring stories from this critically important profession. Rasa’s journey is underpinned with a deep passion for helping people holistically and dedicating herself to the care of others.

What has been your most effective tool or attribute as a practitioner and business owner that has enabled you to bring Broadleaf to life and make a difference?

Being open minded, flexible and genuinely caring about people is essential. People need to feel heard, seen and be validated with whatever they come to the table with. I remind my clients that there is nothing they can tell me that would shock me. Being kind and an active listener as a health care practitioner or even just as an everyday human goes a long way. This sounds like a commonsense approach (to be kind and to listen), but it's unfortunately not always the experience when clients are looking for support. I've worked in the acute mental health sector for ten years and feel equipped to see any person in the community. I take my time with people and have no qualms in telling a client that I need to take extra steps to feel more confident in their care plan. I regularly speak with other health professionals and business mentors to gain other perspectives for clients to gain more confidence in the care plan which is always guided by the client and their needs. I ensure I am, available for consultation outside of set appointments. I do try and go the extra mile however I can. It's the care that my GP provides to me, and it’s the care I strive to provide others in my business.

What has been your greatest challenge and greatest achievement during your time as a nurse practitioner and business owner?

Deciding to resign from my permanent job in the public sector after ten years to start my own practice was a seismic shift for me. My three legged cat is a beautiful companion, but he hasn’t yet become my admin assistant nor does he produce an income! I had no back up plan or safety net. It was a very scary decision, and I had no guarantee of success. My most recent challenge was coming home from two weeks leave to over 100 emails to action!

Despite this, it was the best decision I ever made. I can now take full credit for the success of my clinic and client outcomes. I have pathways to see everyone in our community regardless of their financial situation, my client flow is continuous, the income is sustainable, and I have flexibility in my work schedule. My greatest achievement by far is having my clients thank me for helping them to achieve their recovery goals. How instrumental have sages and critics been in the evolution of your career and business? What is the most valuable lesson they have taught you?

I have received so much amazing mentorship from other nurse practitioners who have supported me to start my own practice and I’m so grateful. They have taught me how to understand the gaps in healthcare and how I can fill them with my skill set and knowledge

and most importantly to work within your values system. I’m always trying to pay that mentorship forward to other nurses and nurse practitioners wanting to go out on their own, or who need some support in their current area of practice. You have a passion for whole of person care and that ironically dovetails with your passion for competitive boxing. How do you reconcile your nursing self with the competitive physical nature of boxing?

I’m more of a lover than a fighter! People often say that they could never imagine me being a boxer. I guess this is why I decided to take the step in competing because the idea of it scared me and felt so unnatural for me. Martial arts and physical exercise are vessels for forming not just physical strength but emotional strength. Training and competing have shown me that I’m capable of a lot more than what I realise. Getting into the boxing ring is one of the most intimidating things a person can do. Most boxers I know are total sweethearts, they are there for the same reasons I am; to have a sense of community, learn new skills and become stronger physically and emotionally. I enjoy training at an athletic level, regardless of the idea of competing. I also coach and see my role in the boxing gym as supporting all people, especially women, to build confidence within themselves, regardless of whether or not they want to compete, through boxing.

broadleafhnpservices.com

Being kind and an active listener as a health care practitioner or even just as an everyday human goes a long way.

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

It’s an exciting time to be at Heritage Christian School as we celebrate 40 years of serving families in the Port Macquarie area. The school’s motto ‘Faith and Knowledge’ has truly stood the test of time, informing the meaningful integration of authentic Christian belief, values and character with the education of knowledge and skills. Heritage Christian School does exactly this. The inspiring history of the school began in the early 1980s as a shared desire of local parents to provide excellent, Godhonouring, education for their children. From there The Hastings Association of Christian Education (HACE) was born. Their shared desire culminated in the opening of the school in the town’s Presbyterian Hall in February, 1983. The school’s founding families sacrificed much to provide school supplies and teaching support, and eventually purchased land and built classrooms on the current site in Mumford Street in 1987. Since then, the school’s campus has flourished, and students now enjoy beautiful leafy open spaces, sports fields, basketball courts, an assembly hall, and a wellequipped library.

e school’s founding families sacrificed much to provide school supplies and teaching support, and eventually purchased land and built classrooms on the current site in Mumford Street in 1987.

More important than our campus, however, is the steadfast heart of the school - our community. Our community is epitomised by the close and caring partnership between our parents and the school in the important work of developing highly capable students of Christian character, ready to serve in the world. From our first day in 1983 until now, the school has always sought to establish strong partnerships with parents, encouraging open communication and collaboration. By working together, we create a supportive network that nurtures and enriches the educational journey of each child and fosters a sense of belonging and unity within the school community.

Shaping the Future

As we celebrate 40 years of Heritage Christian School, we look to the future with great anticipation. Our commitment to providing quality Christian education remains unwavering. We will continue to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, incorporating innovative teaching methodology in the form of Designing for Deep Learning, service opportunities, our 1:1 laptop program, and evidence-based and datainformed approaches to help students be their

best while holding fast to our Christian values and belief.

In August Heritage Christian School celebrated with a special gala event. Over 600 people joined in the Gala Day, which began with a morning service, followed by an afternoon of live music, food stalls, and games run by Word of Life Ministries. Many past staff, students and their families attended the day, turning it into the biggest ‘reunion’ in the school’s history. The Gala Day was a resounding success for the school as it continues to grow and lead Christian Education in the Port Macquarie area. The school’s belief is that its four values“Honour God”, “Learn with Courage”, “Serve in Community” and “Live with Integrity” - are as relevant today as they were in 1983.

Whilst we continue to grow, aspire and achieve, we still hold to the values that our founding families strove to realise: a nurturing place for students that connects faith and knowledge. We always welcome new enrolment enquiries, and see it as a privilege to begin partnerships with new families, as they join us in the important work of educating and shaping our children for the honour of God. Visit our website to find out more about us: www.heritage.nsw.edu.au 6583 8277 | heritage.nsw.edu.au

HONOURS THE PAST AND SHAPES THE FUTURE IN THEIR 40 TH YEAR.

REAL ESTATE JOURNEY?

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Canyousharesomedetailsabout yourself,suchasyourhobbies, interests,personalaspirations,and careerobjectives?

Ifsomeoneweretoaskyour parents,teachers,sportscoaches,or previousemployerstodescribeyou, howdoyouthinktheywoulddoso?

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Pleasedescribehowthis scholarshipwouldassistyouin developingyourcareer.

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DavidCGray DIRECTORANDCEO

CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS

FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY with KATE WOOD-FOYE

Bhumika Koirala

Bhumika Koirala has taken her childhood passion for technology and has blazed a trail all the way from Katmandhu, Nepal to beautiful Port Macquarie to successfully secure her place in the Master of Information Technology at Charles Sturt. Bhumika continues to ride the wave of success securing a sought after internship with global technology company Axiom Connected who have their Australian headquarters on the Port Macquarie Campus.

Bhumika, a huge congratulations on securing your recent internship with Axiom Connected. Can you share your role with us and some of the projects you will be working on together?

Thank you so much. I'm excited about this opportunity and the invaluable learning opportunities it offers. In this internship, I will be contributing to the front-end design part of a project at Axiom Connected. My responsibilities will include creating user interfaces that are not only visually appealing but also intuitive and user-friendly. I'll be collaborating closely with the design and development teams to bring innovative ideas to life, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for users.

What started your passion for IT and how were you encouraged to achieve and follow your chosen career back home in Nepal at home, high school and university?

Growing up, I was fascinated by how rapidly technology was changing. It often struck me that something I considered impossible would turn out to be a reality with a simple online search, revealing that someone had already brought that idea to life. Upon entering university, I pursued a degree in computer science. I got involved in several projects,

which deepened my understanding and further fuelled my interest even more. I also got to work in an IT company back in Nepal, where I gained some real-time experience. The team members and mentors were there to encourage and guide me which helped me continue this path.

You are the second member of your family to travel from Nepal to study in Port Macquarie - what attracted you to the Masters of Information Technology here at Charles Sturt?

Following in my brother's footsteps, who graduated from the same university, added a personal touch. Also, the reputation of the university’s IT program made the decision easier. Port Macquarie is a beautiful coastal town with a peaceful environment, free from the city's hustle and bustle. This tranquillity makes it an excellent place to focus on studying without distractions. Most importantly, the program's incorporation of internships was a standout feature. Recognising the value of practical experience, the opportunity to gain hands-on skills through internships was a compelling factor that influenced my decision to pursue this program.

How will your studies and experiences help you contribute to creating solutions to current challenges faced in the industry?

My studies and experiences have equipped me to tackle current industry challenges head-on. Through my information technology education, I've gained essential technical skills, including a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies and problem-solving strategies. Furthermore, I've nurtured crucial soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability. By combining technical prowess with strong soft skills, I'm poised to address challenges. This holistic approach

enables me to contribute innovative and well-rounded solutions to the ever-evolving landscape of the IT industry.

What has been the most memorable part of your study experience here at Charles Sturt in Port Macquarie?

Among the many memorable moments during my study experience at Charles Sturt University in Port Macquarie, one that stands out is the engaging and interactive learning environment. The faculty's approachability and willingness to help, along with the small class sizes, fostered a strong sense of community. This atmosphere encouraged meaningful discussions and collaborative learning among peers. The hands-on projects and practical assignments were particularly enriching, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This dynamic learning environment not only made studying enjoyable but also enhanced my understanding and retention of the course material.

Before you graduate what would you like to achieve ?

Before graduating, I hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of information technology while honing essential soft skills. Collaborative teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability are key aspects I want to develop. I also seek to enhance my problem-solving abilities through practical projects. By fostering a balance between technical proficiency and interpersonal skills, I hope to leave Charles Sturt University not only as a knowledgeable IT professional but also as a well-rounded individual ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the industry.

study.csu.edu.au/courses/master-informationtechnology

Masters of Information Technnology Student / Axiom Connected Intern

CARRY ME HOME

Adam Hempsell, a Year 10 student at St. Columba Anglican School, is part of the school’s elite performing arts academy, Iona Peak. Through collaborations with industry professionals, teachers and fellow Iona Peak Academy members, he was inspired to craft his own musical, Carry Me Home. This dystopian rock opera, reminiscent of Pink Floyd’s The Wall and Jesus Christ Superstar, showcases over 20 songs composed by Adam.

Fellow Iona Peak Academy members are set to deliver this thrilling performance, so mark your calendars for October 20th and 21st and be part of the epic experience as we bring Carry Me Home to life. Tickets will be on sale soon. Keep an eye on St Columba Anglican School socials to follow this journey!

Lord Howe Island

Norfolk Island

SCHOOL

HASTINGS EDUCATION FUND Achieving Their Dreams

The mission of the Hastings Education Fund (HEF) is to assist school leavers to achieve their further education and career goals.Many school leavers from country and regional areas need to move to metropolitan areas to pursue further study. The additional costs involved are a significant barrier for these students.

To assist, HEF provides non-cash grants for eligible students. These grants help students with education and training related expenses such as text books, technology, specialist clothing and equipment, fees and accommodation.

The two main criteria for receiving a grant are circumstantial need and commitment. DreamBelieve-Achieve is the motto of HEF. School leavers are encouraged to dream of a successful future and to believe in themselves. HEF shows students that they also believe in them by helping them financially to achieve these dreams. Two young beneficiaries of HEF grants are highlighted below -one just starting on her post school journey and the other recently graduated and now employed in his dream job.

Jorjabelle Munday graduated in 2022 from Hastings Secondary College (Port Macquarie Campus). Throughout her schooling, Jorjabelle showed great promise in the visual and performing arts sector, as well as being a keen participant and achieving success in extracurricular activities such as public speaking. During her HSC Year, her Visual Arts Major Work, entitled ‘Gaia” was selected to be exhibited in ArtExpress, an annual series of exhibitions of exemplary artworks created by New South Wales visual arts students for the Higher School Certificate examination. A couple of years earlier, she was voted Best Bassist in Rockfest, so it comes as no surprise

that Jorjabelle jumped all hurdles to enrol in a Bachelor of Contemporary Music/ Music Education at Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Jorjabelle is experiencing the immersive outcomes resulting from learning about the different aspects of music. She collaborates with other music students in their projects as well as her own, further developing her musical skills. This is particularly with regard to music engineering and production as well as the formation of audio and how to produce industry-quality projects. A highlight has been to perform live at the Conservatorium’s West Recital Hall as part of a friend’s composition project for the First Year’s Composer Program. This proved to be a valuable experience as a contemporary performer playing acoustic bass alongside classical performance majors. Jorjabelle has found her own projects to be the most exciting. She is currently working with two ensembles, one with a 4th year student and a student from JMC Academy, and another band in which she’s taken the role as both instrumentalist and producer. In Jorjabelle’s words - ‘So much has happened and it’s truly been more than worth it- especially considering the support of my family and friends who have always seen my passion for the arts and the world of creativity and also HEF for helping this long term goal become a reality’.

Dylan Mason graduated from St Joseph’s Regional College in 2018. After completing his HSC, Dylan relocated to Sydney where he spent the next four years as a student at the University

of Sydney studying a combined Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), majoring in both Taronga Wildlife Conservation and Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology. During these years, Dylan was involved in numerous exciting and stimulating experiences, including field work within the Sydney Basin and at Dubbo, participating in and holding office in the Sydney University Bushwalking Club, and working as a ranger within an outdoor educational ecotourism group. His studies culminated in the submission of his thesis - “Quantifying the adaptive strategies which abet resilience to water deficit among Australian eucalypts”. He now works full time as a graduate ecologist at an ecological consultancy, balancing fieldwork and desk-based report writing, and in his words “I have been loving every minute”. When asked to comment on how HEF has supported him, Dylan’s response was ‘HEF has been absolutely pivotal in getting myself to where I am today. I am beyond thankful for the monetary and advisory support from HEF, and Julie in particular. I was so humbled to be able to speak about my experience with HEF over the last 4+ years at the most recent Gala Night. I have met some incredibly great people in the process, whom I look forward to staying in touch with into the future. Thank you so very much.’

HEF, along with our commencing and continuing grant and scholarship recipients are immensely grateful for the support of our valued sponsors, listed alongside.

Dylan Mason graduating from the University of Sydney

Continuing Education

Sponsors 2023

John & Kay Burman

Lewis Foundation

Diamond Sponsors ($5,000+)

Apps Mechanical Repairs

Monica Atkinson

John & Kay Burman

Flower Hotels

Hunt Hospitality Group

Miedecke Motor Group

Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital

Dr Kristian Prados

Rotary Club of Port Macquarie (incl. Laurie Barber Memorial Scholarship)

Geoff and Lynn Slack

Sovereign Hills Sales

Platinum Sponsors ($1,000+ to less than $5,000)

Bennetts Steel (incl. Helen Glenn Memorial Scholarship)

Birdon Group

Brenda Campbell

Hastings Education Fund Sponsors Lists

Compass Financial Management Dales Office Choice

Hastings Business Women’s Network

Hastings Valley Fine Arts Assoc.

Laurieton Bonny Hills Uniting Church

Lighthouse Medical Centre

David Plews

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Port Macquarie Lions Club

Neville Ramm

Rotary Club-Port Macquarie

Sunrise

Rotary Club-Port Macquarie West

Stowe Australia Pty Ltd

The Friendship Club

Tierney Property Services Pty Ltd

John Turner

Gold Sponsors ($1,000)

BCU Bank Port Macquarie

Peter & Carole Briscoe

Charles Sturt University

Commercial Project Group Pty Ltd

The Corben Family

Debbie Moore Real Estate

Donovan Oates Hannaford

Warren Frumar

Grigg Advisory

Hastings Co-op

Hastings Data Loggers Pty Ltd

Hastings Secondary College

Peter & Cate Hearle

Ian Irwin & Julie Haraksin

Kevin Debreceny Real Estate

Julie McLeod

Macquarie Business Accountants

Master Builders Assoc. of NSW Oxley Division

Men and Women at Work

Mid Coast Connect

Morgans Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie Hastings Council

Assoc. Professor Prem Rashid

John Ross OAM & Helen Ross

OAM

SAAB Industries Pty Ltd

St. Agnes Parish Education

Chris & Robyn Simmonds

Richard & Anne Vella

Wauchope Vets

Leslie Williams MP

Golf Day Sponsors

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Gemlife Lake Cathie

Harvey Norman Technology & Entertainment

J & H Travel & Tours

James Single PMGC Pro Shop

KFC Port Macquarie

Your Life Fitness

“In Kind” Sponsors

Anne Johnston Photography

Cassegrain Wines

Focus Magazine

Mercure Centro Port Macquarie

Snap Printing Solutions Port Macquarie

TripleM Mid Coast & Hit Mid North Coast Radio

“The Hastings Education Fund also wishes to express our gratitude to other donors who have provided funds, their time and raffle prizes during the year”

Dylan Mason speaking at the HEF 2022 Presentation Evening

Jorjabelle Munday, student at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music

MONEY

with BEC FARNSWORTH

FARNSWORTH FINANCIAL

From a young age we are filled with the idea of “The Great Australian Dream” and this theory supports the belief that home ownership can lead to a better life and is an expression of success and security. For many young Australians this idea has been just that… a dream as they have been battling high property prices, rising inflation and rising interest rates making it near impossible to get into the property market. For some, home ownership could be closer than what they think… with the current grants and schemes available, more Aussies could be a step closer to the Australian Dream.

Purchasing your first home can be a daunting task and is usually the biggest financial decision that you have made to date. There are a lot of unknowns, but where do you start? Meeting with a mortgage broker is a great place! A mortgage broker is an expert in the field of finance and should be able to answer all of your questions relating to obtaining finance and explain the home buying journey from end to end.

I often get asked the question “is now a good time to buy”. My answer is that you can never time the market. It’s important to understand whether you feel like it’s a good time for you to buy based on your own personal circumstances. I always recommend my clients complete a budget as a first step, and to be realistic about their expenses. Going back over 3 months of

THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN DREAM

bank statements is a great way to understand exactly where your money goes. Once you have a budget, this can also help determine how much surplus income you have available to repay your mortgage. It’s not always best to get the maximum loan available to you, but rather to ensure that you’re comfortable with your repayments and not over committing yourself. Once you have completed a budget you can go about getting pre-approval. Generally, pre-approvals last 90 days. Having a preapproval means you can have the confidence to make an offer on a property. Pre-approvals can also assist with speed to unconditional once you have found a property. Please be aware that not all banks offer fully assessed pre approvals so make sure you discuss this with your broker to understand whether your loan has been fully assessed.

It is important to know what support is available to you as a first home buyer. I have briefly outlined some of the schemes and grants available below. Please note that there is eligibility criteria and property value limits so they may not be suitable for everyone.

The Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) allows first

home buyers and those who have not owned a property in the last 10 years to get into the market with as little as a 5 per cent deposit and avoid paying lenders mortgage insurance. Not all financial institutions offer the HGS so reach out to find out what lenders are available to you. More information on the HGS can be found on the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation wesbsite.

The First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme supports first home buyers to get into the market by giving a full or partial stamp duty exemption for properties purchased for owner occupied purposes. The First Home Buyer Grant is currently $10,000 in NSW and available for people purchasing their first brand new home or buying land and building. For information on eligibility and property value limits for the jump onto the Revenue NSW website.

When purchasing your first home it is so important to have the right people in your corner. If you’re in the market to purchase your first property, but you don’t know where to start then reach out to me today and we can work together to get you into your first home sooner.

It’s not always best to get the maximum loan available to you, but rather to ensure that you’re comfortable with your repayments and not over commi ing yourself.

Greater Port Macquarie

Abode

HIBBARD HOMES

HIBBARD HOMES

Even if you’re not a first home buyer and have purchased a home before, you probably still lack confidence in knowing what to do – things will have changed since you last went to buy a house, your situation would be different, and you would be looking at the market from a different perspective with different needs.  So how do you know what’s the best way to buy a home? Is there a best way? Hibbard Homes is so committed to Australians realising their dream of home ownership, we just encourage you to take a step. Any step is a step closer – but we also encourage you to align yourself with

someone or a team that has good intentions toward you achieving your goal. Hibbards make purchasing a home easier than anywhere else by making the process simple, and we’ve been doing this for over 50 years. There’s often a lot of confusion about where to start so people don’t actually make a start. With Hibbards, it all starts when you fill in the form online. Filling in the online form doesn’t mean you’re obligated to go further and it doesn’t mean you’re going to get a house, BUT what it does is it allows our team who are SO DEDICATED to helping people realise their dream of home ownership, to take a look at your situation to see if there is a way that you can become a home owner through Hibbards.

What do you need to qualify to buy a home? If you have a good job with regular income and a clear credit history – that’s a great start! Everything else needs to be looked at case by case.

What’s included in our homes? Everything you need! All you will need to do is turn the key and move in. We build the home so that you can walk straight in and make it your own. Neutral internal colour schemes. Our kitchens have stone benchtops, soft close drawers, dishwasher, and depending on the floorplan a walk-in pantry – but of course every one of our kitchens have a pantry. Ducted air-conditioning, coloured driveways, tiled alfrescos are the latest additions to our standard inclusions.

How long does it take? This is a question that is very much dependent on your situation. The actual building of one of our homes can take between 16-26 weeks, dependent on things like weather/floorplan/ suppliers etc.

Hibbards make purchasing a home easier than anywhere else by making the process simple, and we’ve been doing this for over 50 years.

JUDITH WICKS

HOME OWNER

You have recently moved into your new home. What were the key reasons that you decided to purchase and build with Hibbard Homes?

The reason I decided to purchase and build with Hibbard Homes, after looking around many real estates and exhibition home displays, was when I looked through their display home at Sovereign Hills. I liked many of their features, position, price and professional assistance. I really liked their design and features, and the colours and brightness of the home.

Tell us about the process when first meeting with the team at Hibbard Homes? I approached them several times, and visited the display home about 4 times and spoke with Greg Anderson, who I found to be very professional. He gave me all the information when I asked and assisted me to make the right decision and

then I finally sold my home in Orange and moved here.

Can you tell us about the features of your home, size, layout etc? My villa and land package was in a good position and has three bedrooms, two living areas, ensuite and main bathroom, open plan dining room and family room and kitchen area. It has a good sized yard and private entry.

I arranged to look through the Hibbard Homes Display at Sovereign Hills and liked their design and features, colours and brightness of the home.

HIBBARD HOMES

The best aspects are the peaceful area, shopping centre close by, bus service available and the new neighbourhood environment.

Did Hibbard Homes provide you with information about warranties, maintenance, and post-construction support for your new home? Hibbard Homes gave me all the information

regarding warranties, maintenance and post construction support and supplied me with hard copies for future reference.

How satisfied are you with the overall quality of craftsmanship and materials used in your Hibbard-built home? I  was surprised with the overall finish of my home. The materials and the build and finish is to a high standard and the colours selected make my home complete. What advice would you give to others who are considering building with/ purchasing a new home with Hibbard Homes? Hibbard Homes are of a high standard and their display home is worth going to look at. Go and look at the other display homes but you will probably go back to Hibbard Homes for another look.

NEW

HOME Styling

with ANTHONY BERINGEN

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

As the sun-drenched shores of Australia beckon, a design trend has emerged that captures the essence of coastal living while embracing modernityAustralian modern coastal interior decor. This style seamlessly marries the relaxed vibes of coastal living with contemporary design elements, creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply connected to the surrounding environment. From the colour palette to the furniture choices, let's briefly dive into the elements that define this captivating design trend and explore how it resonates with contemporary life and might work beautifully in your own home.

The Colour Palette: Where Land Meets Sea. At the heart of Australian modern coastal decor lies a distinctive colour palette that beautifully reflects the landscape's harmony between land and sea. Soft and muted tones dominate, drawing inspiration from the sandy beaches, azure waters, and the earthy hues of coastal flora.

Think sandy beiges, cool blues, sea foam greens, and warm greys. These colours evoke a sense of tranquility and an atmosphere that feels serene and spacious, echoing the vastness of the ocean. Many designers are also moving away from the all-white aesthetic towards using darker, moodier hues, particularly for urban or city interiors. Dark, stormy grey wall colours are contrasted

with lighter, washed out woods and textiles, creating a decidedly more dramatic effect for an even more aesthetic impact. I particularly love current trends for black accents in an otherwise white or neutral scheme. Look out for more black, white and tan coastal interiors in the coming year.

Textures that Whisper of the Sea. Textures play a pivotal role in bringing the Australian modern coastal style to life. With an emphasis on raw and natural materials, this design trend embraces textures that pay homage to the rugged beauty of the coastline. Wooden accents, whether in the form of weathered driftwood or polished timber, infuse warmth and character. Linen and cotton fabrics evoke the gentle touch of sea breezes, while jute rugs ground the space, mirroring the sand beneath one's feet. It's a tactile experience that encourages a deep connection with nature, even when indoors.

Artwork that Echoes the Ocean's Ebb. Artwork serves as a bridge between interior design and the natural world, and in Australian modern coastal decor, it's no different.

Seascapes, abstract paintings inspired by the ocean's movement, and rustic sculptures and pottery bring the coastal vibe indoors. These pieces not only enhance the visual appeal but also remind inhabitants of the beauty that lies just beyond their doorstep. By incorporating artwork that captures the ebb and flow of

the tides, designers craft a space that feels like an extension of the coastal landscape. Furniture Choices: Where Comfort Meets Elegance. When it comes to furniture, the Australian modern coastal style effortlessly combines comfort and elegance. Clean lines and simple silhouettes pay homage to contemporary design, while plush sofas and oversized armchairs offer a cozy retreat reminiscent of beachside lounging. Furniture is often chosen for its functionality, allowing spaces to flow seamlessly from one area to another. Natural materials like coarse linen, rope, rattan and cane are popular choices, infusing a touch of the outdoors into interior spaces. The result is a harmonious blend of comfort and sophistication that perfectly suits the relaxed yet refined lifestyle of modern Australians.

Fitting with Contemporary Australian Life. In a country where the coastline is a cherished part of the national identity, Australian modern coastal interior decor speaks directly to the soul of contemporary life. As urban centres grow, more Australians are seeking ways to stay connected to nature while embracing modern conveniences.

This design style bridges the gap between urban living and coastal serenity, providing a haven of tranquility in the midst of bustling cities. It caters to the desire for spaces that evoke a sense of escape, making one feel as if they're perpetually at the beach, even when they’re miles away.

Embracing the tranquility - Unveiling Australian Modern Coastal Interior Decor.

Community

Hi David. Can you explain to our readers what the Community Partnership program is and how it works?

The Regional Australia Bank Community Partnership Program provides financial assistance to community groups across regional Australia allowing them to focus on what they do best rather than fundraising. Our members choose the local community organisation they wish to support from our list of 1,900 registered groups and causes. The amount we donate to each group is calculated by crediting an additional 1% ‘interest’ on the average monthly balance of our nominating member account balances. Where did this idea come from and what was the process like of bringing it to life?

Now in its 15th year, the Regional Australia Bank Community Partnership Program has grown with us. It started out as an idea to demonstrate the good that money can do within our local communities. As we’ve grown, so has the Community Partnership Program. In 2018 we gave away just over 1 million dollars. This year, we gave away almost 2.75 million dollars to community groups in regional NSW.

Can you tell us about some of the benefactors of the program so far?

The Community Partnership Program reaches

over 1900 community groups in regional NSW. These range from sporting groups, healthcare support groups, arts groups, preschools, animal shelters and more. Here locally, some of the groups we support include the Wauchope Blues Rugby Leage Club, The Rotary Club, Port Macquarie Land Care and the Micro Business forum, just to name a few. In what ways has the program supported these people and groups?

The Community Partnership Program provides financial support to groups that have registered to the program. Each Regional Australia Bank branch runs their own community event which provides a platform for sponsored groups to raise awareness of their local activities and the initiatives that our donations will support. This year we will be donating over $34,000 to Port Macquarie community groups, over $30,000 to Wauchope groups, and over $29,000 to groups in Laurieton.

What has the feedback been like from both the groups that have received funding and members of the community?

The feedback we receive from the community is immensely gratifying. Each of our sponsored community groups have an amazing and often emotional story to tell. To be able to stand alongside them is a privilege that we hold dear. Every dollar that we are able to donate is another sausage sandwich they DON’T have

to sell or another regional family that they can assist.

How can RAB customers and members of the community get involved?

If you have a transaction account with Regional Australia Bank, you can be a part of the Community Partnership Program. Give us a call on 133 067 or come into the branch and see our team, they will assist you with choosing a community group to support. If you’re a community group looking to join our program, it’s as easy as talking to the staff. Do you have any future plans for the program or others like it?

The plan is for the Community Partnership to continue growing with us. As an organsation we strive for excellence, and this program is no different. We are looking to grow the recipients, and of course grow the donations. How does it feel for you personally working within a business that gives back to the local community like this?

The Community Partnership Program is a great example of why I love leading the team at Regional Australia Bank. I challenge any of the other financial institutions to follow our lead and donate nearly 10% of their profits where it really matters – in our communities. We truly are here to empower regional Australians. We live and breathe the local spirit, and it feels bloody great.

Thanks David.

Our Community Partnership Program is people powered - the more people that participate, the more donations local community organisations will continue to receive.

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