Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i220

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220 JULY 2024

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WHAT’S ON @ GLASSHOUSE

THE MOUSETRAP Wednesday 17 July & Thursday 18 July, 7.30pm

QUEEN FOREVER

Friday 19 July, 2pm & 7.30pm

Saturday 20 July, 7.30pm

MARK VINCENT THE BEST SO FAR Saturday 3 August, 2pm

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE THE AUSTRALIAN EAGLES SHOW Saturday 27 July, 8pm

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FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

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

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

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GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY

ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2023 AN ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES TOURING EXHIBITION 6 July – 18 August 2024 Australia’s favourite portrait prize.

ARCHIBALD PRIZE

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IN THE GALLERY

Collect your copy of the Program from the Gallery or visit glasshouse.org.au/Gallery

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& Cocktails IN THE GALLERY

With Gabriella Domin,

With Carly Marchment

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Friday, 5.30pm - 7.30pm

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Welcome to the JULY 2024 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

ate freezes, graffiti, traffic, social issues, roads, internal HR issues, Lake Cathie, Breakwall upgrades; the issues mount, solve one problem, and another one will appear. Politics in a town like Port Macquarie can be difficult and opinions from all councillors rarely align within the chamber. It’s been 7 years of debate, amendments, resolutions, and it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. At this election Peta will stand down from the mayoral position, and whatever your feelings on how the council has been run over those years, there is no doubt that Peta has held order, kept moving forward and has remained steadfast in her

service to the community. It was only fair that Peta be our cover star for this month as she announces her retirement and a new mayor is on the horizon. Congratulations Peta and all the best for your future. Hold on to your hats folks, the compeition for a new mayor starts now...!

Inside this issue; School holidays are here again so you know we are going to be showcasing the top 10 places to visit this July. Wauchope’s Bain Park has had a massive makeover and has quickly become the go to for play dates and that morning or afternoon coffee break while you let the kids run wild. Congratulations to Andrew Plowright who offically opened

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

his brand new Toyota and Lexus dealership, looking very smick and perfect timing with end of financial year deals on offer.

Port Cup is back! Get ready punters, the race track has been given the green light and the Carlton Dry 3.5% Port Cup will take place on 11 October. A huge thank you to Port Central who have come on board as the new Fashions on the Field sponsor and will be taking the reigns with many exciting and new ideas. Stay tuned for more info about the 2024 Port Cup and the Fashions on the Field.

Next stop August and our annual Men In Business edition... drop us a line if you would like to be involved, or you know a business man who deserves a shout out :)

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2022 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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ISSUE 220 - JULY 2024 INTERVIEWS

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CRAIG ANDERSON

CARLA + PETE MCINNES

T O M M WA N Z A

The Annual Scale Model Expo is coming up on Saturday 13th (9am-5pm) and Sunday 14th (9am-4pm) of July at Port Macquarie Panthers Club, Main Auditorium in Bay Street.

Bush Bloom Distillery, where passion meets flavour in every bottle of our uniquely crafted gin. We chat with Carla and Pete McInnes to find out all about their new business venture, Bush Bloom Distillery.

Tom Mwanza, or Tlarmon as he’s known in the music world, is originally from Zambia and moved to Australia in 2010. He has become a popular fixture on the local music scene with his fun Afro Pop sound!

` OUR CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

LOU PERRI

38. Lusanna Koltz - Monthly Musings 52. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 77. Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health 80. Rachel Leman - Fitness Update 97. Tim Couch - Legal Light 100. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice 102. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate 111. Stephen Pares - Education Update 124. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling 126. Melinda Newton - Newton Blinds

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

Thank you for your contribution to focus Follow us on 14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Seniors LIVING & lifestyle

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NAIDOC WEEK

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Join us as we commemorate NAIDOC Week with an official ceremony raising the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Australian flags. The event will also include a welcome to country, guest speakers and a cultural performance. All are welcome When Monday 8 July 9.30am-10.30am Where Town Green

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FUN SIZE CIRCUS SCHOOL

School holiday circus workshops are great for kids wanting to try a class or for current students to continue training over the holidays. Classes cater for all levels ages 4+. Students will do a wide range of activities including handstands, tumbling, partner acro, mini tramp, hula hoops, juggling and manipulation. $20 for 1.5 hour session When Tuesday 9th July 4pm - 5.30pm Where Wauchope RSL

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NAIDOC FAMILY FUN DAY

Event in Wauchope. Check out our Facebook page for more information and to stay up to date with all our events.

When Thursday 11th July 10am-2pm Search Hastings Naidoc Week on Facebook

PMQ SHARKS U16S FIJI TOUR FUNDRAISER

Our major (and final) fundraising event will be held Saturday 20th July and is a Trivia Night held in the basement of Panthers.

The Vacation themed night will have our quiz master putting us through our paces, incredible auction (silent and live) items up for grabs, fabulous games and tunes to keep the dance floor pumping all night.

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MULTI-SPORTS CLINIC

BOOK CLUB GATHERING

Another community event for the kids this school holidays! A community event for all.

No experience necessary in any of the sports! Keep the kids happy and active these school holidays.

Where Goodwin Tennis, Woods St, PMQ Week One Mon 8th July - Thurs 11th July Week Two Mon 15th July - Thurs 18th July When 9am - 3pm Book here https://bit.ly/3V5gwS2

“Food For Thoughtful Folk,” is a welcoming and inclusive book club where we meet to share our love of books, poetry, and food.

This is a safe space for all to bond over favourite reads, culinary delights, fostering thoughtful discussions and connections.

When 1st Wednesday of the month 6:00pm- 8:30pm. 4th Saturday of the month: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM Where 2/25 Central Rd, Port Macquarie

HAVE YOUR POOL READY FOR CHRISTMAS 2024 LET US CREATE A NEW VISION IN YOUR BACKYARD!

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Pinson A N N O U N C E S

RETIREMENT

Mayor of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Peta Pinson will step down at the September Local Government Elections, farewelling our community after seven years as Mayor.

The first female and the longest serving Mayor of the Port Macquarie Hastings region, Peta reflects fondly on her love of public life and looks forward to a future filled with more family time and a focus on her international business ventures.

I

guess the question we all want to ask is why are you retiring?

My decision to retire at the end of this term was not an easy one. To not be re-contesting the next election in September will be tinged with some sadness, as it will put an end to my role of not keeping our Council on track to deliver core services and infrastructure over the next four years. In saying that, my family are calling me ‘home’ after seven years of sharing the job with me.

They are looking forward to their Mum/wife being available to them again, especially now that our son and daughter-in-law have given us two wonderful grandchildren and our daughter, who recently married, has plans to start a family of her own.

For those who don’t know, away from my Mayoral role we also own two successful companies. One has broken into the American market which sees my husband regularly travel throughout the USA for business. I look forward to soon having the opportunity to travel with him and see the world together in my retirement.

I really am so grateful to my husband Craig and my children Ashleigh and Brendan for their love and support from the very

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moment I said in 2016, ‘I am going to stand for Mayor’. Since being elected in 2017, I have never underestimated how hard it has been at times for them in what has been a very public life, and I hope that I have made them proud.

As you reflect on your time as Mayor, what are some achievements you are most proud of?

As a personal achievement, I am most proud to be the first woman elected to lead the region of Port Macquarie-Hastings as Mayor.

Mayor being James McInherney in 1887.

It took 130 years for the first female Mayor to be popularly elected by the community.

Their faith in my leadership has seen me elected not once, but twice, to the Mayoral role which is something I will forever be immensely proud of.

I am also proud to have been the presiding officer of so many Australian Citizenship ceremonies over the years. It is a role only available to Mayors and when donning the robes and chains for these ceremonies I have always felt very proud for those conferees who have chosen to become Australian Citizens. It is such a big moment in each of their lives, and I feel privileged to have been the one to announce formally, ‘Congratulations you are now an Australian Citizen!’ My last Citizenship Ceremony will be in August and will also probably be the last time I will wear the Mayoral robes and chain. I suspect it will be an emotional moment for me.

My last Citizenship Ceremony will be in August and will also probably be the last time I will wear the Mayoral robes and chain. I suspect it will be an emotional moment for me.

Earlier this year, I was a guest speaker at MacKillop College for International Women’s Day. I shared with the female students and teachers that morning about being elected as the first female Mayor of Port Macquarie Hastings Council, and the pressure I felt to succeed in the role as a woman. In 2017, I had broken through the barrier of civic leadership, which had only been held by men before me with the first

On reflection, there are so many moments for me to have a sense of pride, but overall, I am proud that I have always represented the people of the Port Macquarie Hastings region to the very best of my ability. My door has always been open and I have always fiercely fought for doing the right thing for the majority of our community, even when no one was watching. Whilst representing our ratepayers and the community as a whole has been incredibly challenging at times, it has also been one of the most rewarding times in my personal and working life which has brought about many highs and lows over the past seven years.

Tell us about some of those lows that you have experienced in your time as Mayor.

The lows would have to be the multiple natural disasters which showed up in the form of the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires which was one of the most catastrophic and devastating fire seasons Australia has ever recorded. It destroyed so much of our environment, wildlife and landscape. The smoke left many struggling to breathe whilst the skyline looked like Armageddon.

Who could have ever imagined that next would come a global pandemic. It turned our lives and businesses upside down for years, put people on the brink of financial, physical, and mental ruin and forced us into isolation.

It changed the world as we all once knew it.

Seeing the joy on the faces of our community at events Council has hosted, such as Artwalk and our Christmas events, are great moments that have made my job all the more rewarding.

able to bring that to people as their Mayor.

And the highs, what have they been for you?

The highs on the other hand have been so varied. I am always thrilled when we deliver a newly rehabilitated road, a new footpath

or a play space upgrade. Making decisions

And if this wasn’t enough for us to cope with, in March 2021 our region experienced floods which devastated homes, infrastructure, businesses and lives. I will never forget the days I spent knee deep in mud with our community helping drag ruined treasured belongings from houses, whilst witnessing the absolute despair and grief our community suffered, and some still suffer having never fully recovered from that event.

in the Chamber each month which benefits

During those awful and trying times it was my duty and responsibility to offer strong leadership to enable our community to move forward. Trying times require strong leadership and I hope I have always been

all the more rewarding. Although I must

our community have also been highs for me. This includes committing to the Ocean Drive Duplication Project which is one of the single largest projects Council has undertaken at a cost of over $111 million.

Seeing the joy on the faces of our community at events Council has hosted, such as Artwalk and our Christmas events, are great moments that have made my job confess there was the Christmas in 2022 which didn’t go exactly according to plan and we were left with a wonky Christmas tree that ended up going viral!

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I am glad you mentioned the infamous Christmas tree Peta, it certainly did make us sit back and chuckle. How did you feel about it?

Looking back, I think to myself - this was just what our community needed. It was always the intention that our beloved Norfolk Pine Tree would be the star act for our annual Christmas Fair, but never did we think it would make international headlines and land me on the TODAY breakfast show.

After all we had been though with the fires, pandemic and floods we were all looking forward to some well-deserved Christmas cheer when disaster struck and the night before lighting the tree a huge windstorm blew our lights and decorations to one side of the tree. Everything happens for a reason, and I guess it was so fitting to see our big Christmas Tree countdown fizzle. That was the year social media lit up more than our tree did and some people suggested that as Mayor I ruined Christmas. The conversation then soon changed and a lot of our community fell in love with our dishevelled tree and said that after all we had been through in the past few years, the tree represented how some of us felt. It brought our community together in a strange way. People still talk to me about it, and many even recognise or know Port Macquarie simply for that reason – 2022 was the year we ruined Christmas with our wonky tree!

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Tell us about your relationship with the organisation and the Council’s CEO Dr Clare Allen. What sort of shape do you think our Council is in to take the community forward?

I first ran for Mayor for several reasons.

I came in to make positive change, hold the organisation to account and focus our attention on the customer. I make no apologies for that and have always had a ‘tell it like it is’ personality which some have not warmed to, but I was elected to do a job and I set about doing it.

Fast forward to today and I can honestly say that I have become a fan and supporter of Council. Each day in the back of house I see all the great work staff do to deliver for our community. After all - they live here too.

The business under the leadership of our CEO Dr Clare Allen has seen meaningful change take place and several highly skilled, capable members of staff recruited into the business who are making a substantial difference. Those that know me well enough understand and appreciate that I do not see eye-to-eye on everything with everyone, that is just the type of person I am, but I am loyal, respectful, passionate and reasonable. What you see is what you get. My relationship with Clare and the Directors of the organisation is professional.

The vision we share for our community is

united, with a goal of achieving significant infrastructure delivery and focusing on a core business service model of building better roads and footpaths, improving our sewer networks, and enabling the potential for future population growth by undertaking proper planning for the future. We have significant water and sewer projects happening across the entire region, a massive timber bridge replacement program, construction of the Ocean Drive Duplication, integrated transport planning and a blueprint which will help steer these projects, and more, forward. Never have I seen so much construction work happening above and below the ground, and that is testament to the decision making at the elected level with my team of Councillors who support me and the boots on the ground at the operational level of Council who go about just getting the work done.

We have just handed down another record budget at the June Council meeting with more than $205 million about to be spent on capital works projects in our 202425 Operational Plan and Budget, so I am confident that this good work will continue well after my retirement.

Congratulations on having just delivered your very last Operational Plan and Budget. Does it feel real yet that your tenure as Mayor is ending?

As I reflect on my But most of all I time as the Mayor am thankful to of Port Macquarieyou - my community continue our growth Hastings in the lead strategy into the USA. for giving me this up to my impending But most importantly, wonderful opportunity retirement, I cast my I cannot wait to take over the past 7 years. mind back to the very some time out to I will miss being your beginning and marvel spend with my two Mayor, but I am not at the opportunity and children and two young leaving this wonderful privilege I was given to grandchildren. I am very region I call home. lead our community blessed and fortunate over two terms of that my Mayoral Council. Delivering retirement is happening my last budget will be one of my proudest at a time where there are so many new moments. This budget is one for the times wonderful chapters unfolding in my personal we are facing with a cost-of-living crisis, and life.

I have full confidence in Clare and her team Would you like to share some final last to drive the necessary efficiencies over the words to the community? next 12 months.

I want to acknowledge everyone in our My time as Mayor has defined a period of community who have stood beside me on my life that I will never forget, and I am so grateful for the work that I have been able to this journey by sending me messages of support over the years, volunteering for me achieve alongside this beautiful community. at election times, giving me hugs and advice I am incredibly proud of what we have when I needed it, praying for me and with achieved, but now it is time to move on and me, and mostly believing in me to represent pass the robes and chains onto a new Mayor. you. I appreciate you all and you know who Peta, what will the rest of 2024 and each of you are. beyond bring for you?

A special thanks goes to my family and I still have the July and August Council friends for understanding all the times I meetings left for the term, so the work couldn’t be there with you because I put my continues for the immediate future, however Mayoral commitment first. once I hand the baton over, I will be To Bill Yates, a poet, a true gentleman and travelling to Vancouver for a much needed the reason I became Mayor, thank you. break with my husband Craig and in 2025 will be supporting him in our business as we Thank you to those councillors who have

provided their invaluable support over my terms as Mayor, in particular, Adam, Danielle and Josh for their ongoing support.

Uncle Bill, thank you for showing me what quiet and powerful leadership looks like.

To all the community groups that I have engaged with, and in particular those members of the community - led by Damian King and the members of the Port Macquarie Boardriders - who advocated against the proposed reconstruction of the Port Macquarie breakwall.

To the dedicated Council staff led by Clare who I have learnt so much from whilst watching her guide a multi-billion-dollar organisation, thank you all for the sometimes thankless work that you do for the greater good, you are the soldiers in the trenches for our community.

And not least to my Executive Assistant Linda. With her wealth of knowledge and decades of experience she has ensured that I have been able to perform my role to the best of my ability for the community.

But most of all I am thankful to you - my community - for giving me this wonderful opportunity over the past seven years. I will miss being your Mayor, but I am not leaving this wonderful region I call home. There really is no place better so it is not goodbye but rather see you sometime soon on the golf course, at the shops or on the beach, on a cruise ship, in a caravan park at some remote place, or on a pickleball court – adventure and retirement awaits!

Peta Pinson Mayor of Port Macquarie Hastings GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 21

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A CURATED COLLECTION OF ELEGANCE As you step inside the Sovereign Hills Design Centre, you'll be greeted by a generous collection of homewares and furniture pieces that exude sophistication and style. From the luxurious 100% linen sheets, sumptuously soft blankets and bedding that promise a blissful night's sleep to the artfully crafted cushions, artisan candles, throws, artwork, mirrors and lamps that add warmth and character to any room, every item has been carefully selected to inspire and delight.

You’ll also find a selection of representative and unique furniture pieces, as well as rug and fabric samples to inspire and delight your imagination.

“Our specialty is fully imported and sustainably sourced solid wood furniture pieces and stunning oneoff reclaimed antiques from India and East Asia,” says Michelle Rhodes, Sales and Store Operations Manager.

“The timeless Chinese lacquered antique buffets, altar tables and side boards are unique to us at O P E N H O U S E Furniture, and they complement

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our broader range of furniture beautifully,’ She says.

“The full range of our product offering is also there for you to explore at our larger Lake Road showroom.”

But the Design Centre's offerings go beyond mere products; it's a canvas where the art of interior decorating and styling takes centre stage.

For those building new homes or embarking on renovation projects, the Sovereign Hills Design Centre is a hub of inspiration and expertise. The design team are dedicated to addressing the challenges that come with creating a cohesive and visually stunning interior whilst also taking the hassle out of the process.

Through their renowned design and styling service, the team at O P E N H O U S E Furniture work closely with clients to understand their unique vision and preferences. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the latest trends and timeless classics, they curate furniture and homeware selections that seamlessly blend form and function, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical and liveable.

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“For many of our customers, the process of pulling together a coordinated look can often be challenging,” says Stylist Anthony Beringen.

“Particularly when building a new home or renovating, the endless options and choices can leave people overwhelmed and wondering where to start.’

That’s where the OH Design Team step in.

Customers can access complimentary in-home consults when they commit to shop with O P E N H O U S E Furniture. The team will arrange a personalised appointment to carefully listen to the customer’s vision, and then create a tailored scheme using a digital mood board. Once approved, the products are then delivered to the customer, the packaging is removed, and the space is styled up for the ultimate reveal. It’s a truly seamless process.

As you wander through the brand new Sovereign Hills Design Centre, you’ll be transported on a journey of transformation, where ordinary spaces can be elevated into extraordinary sanctuaries.

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living room, a serene and rejuvenating bedroom, or an outdoor space that seamlessly blends functionality and style, O P E N H O U S E Furniture’s team of experts will guide you every step of the way.

So, step inside and embark on a journey of discovery, where the art of homemaking is celebrated, and houses are transformed into homes that truly reflect your unique style and personality.

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TRANSFORMING HOUSES INTO HOMES...

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Beer Ashley

F I L M M A K E R

Ashley Beer is a natural born filmmaker who has spent much of her life travelling with a camera in hand. Originally a self-taught hobby filmmaker, she went on to study film and has made a career out of filming documentaries in all corners of the world.

More recently that has evolved into shooting wedding and birth videography here on the Mid North Coast.

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people and diverse subjects that inspired me on the road. Later I went on to study film and completed an internship at a film studio in San Francisco. Even when I didn’t have a camera in my hand I often viewed the world around me as a potential film being played in front of my own eyes.

You started off making documentaries, can you tell us about some of your first projects?

H

i Ashley. Can you share a bit about your background and how you first came to fall in love with film making?

I can not pinpoint the exact moment but I have loved documenting exact everyday moments for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Manly on the northern beaches of Sydney with a chunky camcorder glued to my hand.

Growing up we had coffee books throughout the house filled with beautiful images from different cultures around the world and I would sit and flip through these books for hours. I fell in love with photojournalism and for me this naturally led into film.

From a young age I was inspired by anything to do with the ocean and surfing.

Straight out of school I followed these passions around the world travelling, surfing and filming. I taught myself how to edit and would often piece together short stories on the

Throughout my travels I documented many short stories often inspired by everyday people or the environment I was in. I wanted to showcase the inherent story within each person I met. I was drawn to simple, sustainable living and spaces with minimal yet functional designs. I ventured into remote regions of Mexico, where I collaborated with a friend on many short stories. One in particular was with renowned big wave surfer Coco Nogales on a surf camp initiative, the Ahava Project, which means love and aims to empower underprivileged children and teenagers through the transformative power of surfing.

Additionally, I immersed myself by camping out with a community of surfers on an organic farm in Ireland, documenting their endeavours as they established a sustainable life in often harsh conditions growing organic produce for themselves and their local community. I frequently filmed barn nights, capturing the unique atmosphere as the barn transformed into an intimate music venue, hosting talented musicians passing through the area.

How has your videography work evolved over the years?

When I started out I didn’t have much confidence to call myself a filmmaker and I was quite the perfectionist so I think the first few films I created were deleted before anyone could see them. I eventually grew to appreciate the process and learnt to surrender as my perfectly imperfect work evolved. When I first started out I used to play around with a lot of experimental pieces, which were quite abstract, often using water footage and layering images.

Continued over...

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 25

Beer Ashley

I also played around with slow shutter speed photography, light artwork and creating films with those photos using stop motion animation.

My work has definitely evolved into a more natural, documentary style approach, often quite raw and trying to keep it as real as possible.

I used to live my life with a camera glued to my hand, following my friends around and making them the subjects of my work. Since having children, and despite my own creative desires, I have made a conscious effort to not have a camera in their faces all the time trying to find a balance and respect their admirable ability to be present with no distractions. Meaning these days I limit my camera use and will only film with a particular project in mind rather than having my camera glued to my hand at any moment (for now).

What have been some stand out highlights for you in your time making films?

The people I’ve met. Being able to step into someone else’s world, experiencing a day in their 26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

life, and then sharing that with others is a privilege and I love it.

A project I worked on in San Francisco during my internship for HipCamp took us to many of the national parks in California. Camping in the most breathtaking locations while working alongside some very talented artists is an experience I am grateful for.

Camping in the most breathtaking locations while working alongside some very talented artists is an experience I am grateful for.

Additionally, despite all efforts in consciously reducing screen time in my life, I oddly find immense joy in immersing myself in the intricacies of editing, often getting lost in its world.

These days you’ve become more involved in shooting weddings, how did you come to move into this field of videography?

Years ago I arrived home from overseas and a friend asked me to photograph their wedding. I initially declined and they assured me there was no pressure.

After much hesitation I agreed to photograph the day yet found myself naturally gravitating towards filming moments alongside the photos. As simple as that, this is where it all began. Like a fly on the wall, I realised this was a great way to authentically document meaningful moments in people's lives.

Since giving birth to my two kids I have become a full time Mum and continue to film a limited number of weddings that are local along the Mid North Coast.

What do you enjoy most about shooting weddings?

The morning of the wedding is something I enjoy the most, as it's quite raw, filled with anticipation and a whirlwind of emotions.

When filming weddings I try to take a back seat, capturing the day as I see it and trying to allow the day to unfold naturally.

These days I love the fact that weddings are incredibly unique and hold different meanings for each couple. Whether it's a traditional church ceremony, a fun backyard celebration or an intimate elopement, I enjoy capturing these real moments in a way that honours the couples individuality and celebrates their love story, unique to them.

Thankfully from my experience everyone is always so joyful on their wedding day. I have had beautiful couples that are laid-back and are able to surrender to the wild yet fun chaos that a wedding day may bring. I love capturing all the small details and any moments that the couple may have missed on the day.

I love seeing old wedding films that were filmed on a chunky camcorder by some distant relative in the back corner. Zooming in and out, shaking up and down, laughing and commentating

in the background. I hope when couples watch their films, if feels as though they are there, reliving the moment again.

How do you think your experience in such a range of videography work influences your approach to wedding videography?

Wedding days are fast and there is rarely a moment that isn’t worth capturing so being comfortable with the process and equipment definitely helps to reduce any anxiety or worry about missing any moments.

When filming weddings I try to take a back seat, capturing the day as I see it and trying to allow the day to unfold naturally. I have a raw documentary style approach to weddings but sometimes the couple will ask for a particular style and I generally feel comfortable to adapt to what they would like.

What are your plans and aspirations for the future of your videography career?

As long as it still brings me joy, I will continue to document the life that inspires me and important stories I feel are worth sharing. Who knows what the future holds.

I will continue to film weddings along the Mid North Coast, especially while my kids are young and I am also interested in filming births and would love to do more of this.

Where can we check out your work or get in touch?

For weddings my website is ashleybeerweddings.com ashleybeer.format.com hello@ashleybeerweddings.com @ashleybeerweddings @ashleybeerfilms GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 27

IN THE SPIRIT OF OMOTENASHI, WE WELCOME YOU TO OUR NEW LEXUS SHOWROOM

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BRAND NEW TOYOTA SHOWROOM FOR NORTHERN NSW. OVER TWO ACRES OF AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE MODELS After more than 30 years at their previous location, Warren, Andrew and Hiroko Plowright along with their team are pleased to welcome Northern NSW families to their new dealership. Located at the corner of Hastings River Drive and Woods Street in Port Macquarie, the brand-new facility encompasses two showrooms and two workshops on a site of over two acres.

This year marks the Plowright family’s 40th anniversary as a Toyota dealer. Along with so many of Australia’s favourite Toyota models that have been available at Plowrights for decades, the latest additions like the Corolla Cross, bZ4X, Yaris Cross and the GR performance range all continue the Toyota tradition of exciting and reliable vehicles for all conditions.

Conveniently located just minutes off the highway, the huge range at Plowrights means there’s a vehicle for everyone. With turbo diesel lifestyle and workhorse vehicles, self-charging hybrid electric sedans and SUVs, plus a great selection of certified pre-owned vehicles, it’s a great time to drop in and experience the great range of choices at the all-new Warren Plowright Toyota.

WARREN PLOWRIGHT TOYOTA 177 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie PH (02) 65 833 122 DL10691 warrenplowrighttoyota.com.au

AS LEADERS IN COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL GLAZING we consistently demonstrate our abilities in architectural design solutions.

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With the help of our pneumatic suction cup glass lifters we have extended our capabilities to glaze large panels safely and efficiently on site.

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Owners Michael Godwin and Louise Beaumont

WE HAV E EXCITIN G NEW From 20

25 w

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

S!

CUSTOM e will be doing JEWELLE MAKES AND RY REM ODELIN G ONLY!

CHANGES TO OUR SERVICES AND EXCITING SALE ALERT!

W

e have some jewellery before we make the important news shift to focusing solely on custom to share with you creations. regarding our Whether you're looking for a jewellery store in Peachtree Walk timeless piece to add to your Arcade. After much consideration collection or searching for the and with a focus on enhancing perfect gift for a loved one, our our services to better meet our stock clearance sale will offer clients' needs, we have decided something for everyone. Don't to transition our front retail shop miss out on this opportunity to to exclusively offer custom-made find stunning jewellery. This jewellery at means that unbeatable starting from prices! If you February 2025, are looking We are thrilled to our retail shop at getting announce that will be closed something alongside this to walk-in custom made, transition, we will be customers. please book an holding a spectacular However, we appointment stock clearance sale will continue via our website starting from 31 to operate by as usual.

July 2024! We will be appointment During our offering up to 50% off focusing sale our shop all stock store wide. on custom will be open makes, custom Wednesday engagement and Thursday rings and wedding bands and 10am to 4pm and Saturday 10am jewellery remodelling. to 1pm.

We are thrilled to announce that alongside this transition, we will be holding a spectacular stock clearance sale starting from 31 July 2024! We will be offering up to 50% off all stock store wide. This is your chance to score amazing deals on high-quality

We thank you for your continued support and understanding as we embark on this new chapter.

We look forward to serving you with our custom-made jewellery services and helping you discover treasures during our stock clearance sale.

STARTS JULY 31ST! UP TO 50% OFF STORE WIDE! *Sale does not apply to website goods. In-store product only. Sale ends 21.12.24. See in-store for details.

www.designerjewellers.com.au admin@designerjewellers.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 31

Scale PORT MACQUARIE

The Annual Scale Model Expo is coming up on Saturday 13th (9am-5pm) and Sunday 14th (9am-4pm) of July at Port Macquarie Panthers Club Main Auditorium in Bay Street.

W

e sat down for a chat with the Port Macquarie Scale Modellers club member Craig Anderson to get all the details on the event and to find out a bit more about scale modelling and what the local club gets up to. Entry to the Expo is by gold coin donation which goes directly to the Port Macquarie Maritime Museum.

been running for and how has it evolved over the years?

Hi Craig, can you tell us a bit about the Port Macquarie Scale Modellers and how you first came to be involved?

his running garden The original format was back. Paul is loved by scale train layout. primarily a maritime the kids every year and is theme,which included definitely a crowd pleaser, hand built tall masted with his running garden sailing ships, tugs and scale train layout. ferries, plus remote control navy vessels and Last year's People's Choice Award winners racing boats.

Peter and Liddy, will be back again with their

Port Macquarie Scale Modellers are a local non-for-profit scale model club, with members ranging in age from early teens through to 80+ years old. We all enjoy building scale models, promoting the hobby and learning new skills.

I met the 2 original founding members, Dave and Rob at the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show. I left my details with them and said, if you ever start a club, count me in….. here we are 15 years later, with over 70 members.

The Annual Scale Model Expo is coming up here in Port Macquarie, how long has it 32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

and highlights attendees can look forward to at this year’s Expo?

We believe the show has been running for This year we have some talented new over 25 years now, with the Port Macquarie exhibitors attending, one with a range of busts Scale Modellers taking and figurines. Another is over the organising of an extremely well known the Scale Model Expo in internet modeller, who Paul is loved by 2016, prior to this date, specialises in stunning the kids every it was called the Port aircraft models. year and is definitely Macquarie Model Boat Our Expo favourite Paul Show. a crowd pleaser, with “the train man” will be

Over time, plastic scale models and train layouts were introduced into the expo. Since our club’s running of the event began in 2016, we have tried to diversify to an even greater variety of scale models of different genres, building materials and skill sets.

What are some of the main attractions

incredible miniature lifelike buildings.

As in previous years we will have vendors attending, who will carry everything from basic starter kits for the budding new modeller, modelling tools and paints, through to advanced kits and accessories for skilled builders.

For the first time this year we will also have demonstrations held by world class modellers from around the state.

The Expo features a wide variety of models. Can you describe some of the different types of models that will be on display and the kinds of materials used?

David from Firestorm Models and Gary from Scalespot.com, will be demonstrating key painting techniques, tips and tricks of modelling and how to get the best finish to your build. They will also be available to answer the “how to” questions.

All proceeds from the gold coin entry fee go towards supporting the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum. Can you tell us more about this partnership?

Plastic scale models will include aircraft of both modern jets and old warbirds, armoured fighting vehicles, science fiction, ships, trucks, cars and figures. There will also The Maritime Museum has a long history of be a wide variety of being involved, initially remote-control planes, in the Model Boat ships and boats. Our Show and now the We also attend local club member and Scale Model Expo. This other Model diorama expert Noel, annual event is one of shows around the who took out the Best their major fund-raising state, with more in Show award in 2023, campaigns for the year. participation planned will also be back with Not only do the gold for the remainder of his incredibly detailed coin donations from this year. vignettes on display. the door go towards supporting them, You will be able to view they also run a highly models constructed of successful raffle over the duration of the timber, fibreglass, plastic and resin, with also weekend, with prizes being drawn on Sunday 3D printing becoming much more prevalent afternoon.

Funds in previous years have in scale modelling. been used for maintenance and upgrades This year’s Expo includes demonstrations to buildings plus to preserve and present by world-class modellers from around the rich Maritime history that the Mid North NSW. Can you tell us more about these Coast is known for. demonstrations?

Beyond the Expo, what are some of the Our two visiting, highly talented modellers, other activities and events hosted by

the Scale Modellers Club throughout the year?

The annual Scale Model Expo is our local major event each year. We also attend other Model shows around the state, with more participation planned for the remainder of this year.

We hold a monthly night meeting at Panthers Port Macquarie where we share modelling skills, run workshops, group builds, show completed builds and work in progress models.

Not only do we offer help and support at our monthly meetings but we also offer friendship and assistance to our members on a daily basis. Our club is welcoming and inclusive of all skill levels and abilities.

How can people stay updated with the latest news and information about the Expo and the Scale Modellers Club?

Look out across local social media sites for advertising of the Expo. Port Macquarie Noticeboard and Port Macquarie Thumbs up Thumbs down to name just a few.

We have also been extremely grateful for the sponsorship Colourworks have given us for the last two years. They have provided us with printing of posters and flyers which we have distributed around the local area.

The club can be contacted on pmqscalemodellers@outlook.com GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 33

MNC WEDDINGS PRESENTS

Photo by Cass Creative - Emma and Ollie's wedding at The Green Cathedral in Tiona

MNC Weddings HAVE YOU HEARD OF

FORSTER CIVIC CENTRE 4 LAKE STREET 21ST JULY 2024 ATTENDEE11AM - 2PM WWW.MNCWEDDINGS.COM.AU

RSVP

ATTENDEE RSVP

LOCAL VENDORS MOCKTAILS CAKE TASTING SWEET TUNES GOOD VIBES SPONSORED BY

LOVE KISS CONFETTI

VENDOR SPACES There’s still some spots available if you would like to join - we’d love to have you!

Send us an email at info@mncweddings.com.au and ask us for a vendor pack for all the information.

34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

T

ell us about MNC Weddings? I have been developing and working with local wedding vendors for MNC Weddings, which is an all inclusive website and vendor directory. Vendors have the option of being listed for free, or they can pay a small fee, to have some extra information and an image displayed. We also share couples wedding stories and images on our blog. They are super fun to write about and it helps other couples find great local vendors to work with, especially those who are travelling to our area and may not be in the know.

What made you want to host an expo? After many years, it seemed like the right time to dive into, the next big thing, a wedding expo! The vendors were calling for it and with 2025 fast approaching it’s a good time to meet with potential couples.

Why Forster? Forster has a great blank canvas in the Civic Centre.

It’s a new state of the art facility that doesn’t have any ties to the wedding industry so it’s the perfect neutral ground. It has all weather access (it is winter after all) and is equipped for all abilities. My plan is to replicate the expo model in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.

How will attendees benefit from your wedding expo? They will meet with a whole bunch of local vendors. All who RSVP (see the QR code in the advert) will receive what I’m calling a “To Be Wed” bag on arrival. I’ll be hosting 3 sets of panels during the expo. The panels will help vendors answer some frequently asked questions to a group of attendees all at once. It will be a super fun few hours, to gain inspiration for their wedding, access special deals and receive expert advice.

T

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BAIN PARK

T

he planning for the Bain Park upgrade began in 2020. How did the comprehensive engagement activities shape the final design of the Bain Park Masterplan?

you now see today such as the BMX pump track and playground - funded by the NSW Government; upgrades to the High Street entry, a circular pathway with landscaping and lighting and upgrades to the Avondale Street park access.

Following community requests and consultation, an all abilities playground was installed in the park in 2012. Since this time, Wauchope community groups approached us to consider the development of infrastructure to support an increase in activation of the space.

We will continue to seek further funding to progress the delivery of this facility in line with the Masterplan, and keep the community informed as this progresses.

Initial engagement on these requests were undertaken in September 2019, where council invited the community to participate in a series of activities (including surveys, pop-up stalls and a visioning workshop) to generate ideas and a vision for an upgraded park. The ideas that were considered were then incorporated into the Bain Park Masterplan, which was adopted by Port Macquarie Hastings Councillors in 2020.

Funding was secured to develop stages 1 and 2 of the Masterplan, which includes the elements 36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

received on social media.

This upgraded park was delivered in partnership with the community, and we were highly considerate and sensitive to their needs when designing it. We are confident that through this dedicated and detailed Bain Park engagement process, we is a key have been able to deliver attraction point for an upgraded park that locals and visitors, will be to the benefit of all and an important users.

community meeting place playing host to markets and events all year round.

What has been the community’s response to the new playground and pump track since its opening?

We saw a significant contingent of community members enjoying these new facilities when it opened last month, and we continue to be encouraged by the ongoing positive feedback

How do you envision the park benefiting the Wauchope community in the long term?

The development of the Bain Park Masterplan represents a long term vision for the park.

It is an important cultural and recreational space for the community, located in the heart of the Wauchope CBD. Bain Park is a key attraction point for locals and visitors, and an important community meeting place playing host to

It is part of a broader commitment to continue providing upgraded and modern play spaces for our community that meet contemporary community standards.

Through the development of stages 1 and 2 of the Masterplan, council has been able to improve the use of the space to ensure it remains an important place of community interest now, and into the future. It is part of a broader commitment to continue providing upgraded and modern play spaces for our community that meet contemporary community standards.

installation of public artworks designed by local artists Stu Doherty and Angela Roberts, can you tell us a bit about the pieces and why these artists were chosen to create these installations?

The project received significant funding from both the NSW Government and Port Macquarie Hastings Council. How crucial was this financial support in bringing the

Council undertook an Expression of Interest for artists to contribute towards a public art project, that linked to Wauchope’s history, heritage, culture or environment.

project to life?

Both Stu and Angela where successful in codesigning their works, which you can see as public art installations (15 hardwood timber posts) which have been installed at the entrance to the park on High Street.

markets and events all year round.

We successfully applied to the NSW Government under two funding streams to assist with the delivery of this project. The total contribution of the NSW Government through both the Stronger Country Communities Fund and Public Spaces Legacy program came to $1.55 million, with council also providing $750,000.

It is incredibly important that we continue to advocate for external funding assistance for projects such as the Bain Park reviitalisation project, to ensure we are able to deliver the best facilities for our community.

The space has benefited from the

The works were fabricated in metal sleeves by local fabricators, Bennetts Steel, and represent personal meaning and connection to each artist. We are very thankful to Stu, Angela and Bennetts Steel for their contribution to the project and for the fantastic work they have done to beautify the park’s High Street entry.

What message would you like to convey to the Wauchope community about the new

Bain Park playground and pump track?

We’d really like to thank each and every one of our community members who worked with us during the engagement process around the Masterplan.

We’d also like to thank nearby businesses and community groups for their patience and continuing cooperation throughout the park’s challenging construction period. Our contractors were severely hampered by rain during the delivery which unfortunately delayed the project’s completion, however we are incredibly proud of the end result.

How can residents stay informed about upcoming projects and initiatives from the Port Macquarie Hastings Council?

We would encourage residents to sign up to our Have Your Say platform. You can register for updates by visiting Port MacquarieHastings Council Have Your Say (nsw.gov. au). We also publish ongoing updates on our social media platforms and via the media, and provide ongoing status updates and reports to Councillors at our monthly Ordinary Council Meetings on matters of community interest.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 37

focus_contributor.

As we draw to the conclusion of another season of fashion at Meg + Me, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the season that was.

B

ut, there’s another aspect to consider this time, and that was the benefit our Pre-Loved Fashion Sale we had. So many people have been interested in knowing how it went, so now’s my chance

to fill you in.

Let’s time travel together to about 6 weeks ago, when 30+ ladies decided to jump on my unique idea of selling their Pre-Loved garments in my “One Day Shop Takeover” event. That’s right, for one day only we cleared the shelves of all our clothing and made way for 500(ish) pieces of pre-loved fashion to hit the shelves.

The anticipation in the lead-up to the event was palpable, with people from near and far joining in as sellers, some even coming from as far as the Southern Highlands to participate. The buzz in the air was electric as we welcomed each vendor and excitedly received their offerings, carefully curating each garment into size groups in preparation for the big event the next day. Then, at 5:30pm on Saturday as the sun was setting, with my boutique fully transformed, I turned off the lights and closed the door with eager anticipation for the following day.

Cue 7:30am Sunday morning, with crowds of people sipping coffee in the sun, eagerly waiting to enter, my team of 4 staff surveyed

38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

our space and after a little group hustle, turned up the tunes, threw the doors open and welcomed the shoppers! On reflection, I think this is probably as close as Port has come to seeing the “Boxing Day Sales” at Myer on the telly… the shop was alive with bargain hunters and the vibe was awesome!

It didn’t take long for the most sought after items to start flying out the door! Watching the flurry of buyers was so much fun, knowing that all of these fabulous garments were up until the day before, sitting in wardrobes, not being worn for one reason or another.

Our event definitely had an impact. There are so many reasons behind why most of us have clothing in our homes that we no longer reach for, but that we also don’t feel comfortable donating. While many women invest good money in good quality items, some also have a sentimental attachment to garments and don’t feel comfortable donating everything… whatever the case, selling an item frees up space not only in your wardrobe, but also your mind, allowing you to literally move on from that garment haunting you every time you open the wardrobe; not to mention the financial benefit of selling an item and pocketing the profits. It’s win/win.

So, are you interested in what sold; how much were people willing to pay for pre-loved

clothing; what was the sell-through rate and what was the average number of garments people bought? It was a very interesting process for everyone involved, so let me share some of the insights with you.

We had a huge variety of items available on the day, with garments ranging in price from $10 right the way up to $500. Our top selling garments (both well known brands) sold for $190, while the average garment price sat around $51. Most purchasers bought between 2 and 4 items each and we took nearly $8,000 in just over 4 hours. 100% of the sale proceeds went to the vendors, with participants paying a small rental fee per item to participate, no commission was taken on sales.

To say this inaugural event was an overall success is an absolute understatement!

Now the most common question I’ve been asked since the event is, will we do it again?

The answer is a resounding YES! There are definitely more beautiful clothes out there waiting for new homes and I want to help you find them!

So, if you’re interested in joining in the fun and selling some of your pre-loved fashion in our next event, simply register your interest on our website (megandme.com.au) and you’ll be among the first to know!

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 39

H KIRBY 40 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

H A Z E L’ S H O M E O F D OT S

H

i Hazel. Can you tell us about your introduction to Mandala Art and how you got started in this style?

I remember it very well; it was a sliding door moment. I met an amazingly talented local dotting artist called Angela Marr at the Port Macquarie Art Walk in 2018. She was so incredibly passionate and enthusiastic about her painting it was infectious. Convinced that I would also enjoy dot painting, Angela came to my home with a stone, a few paints, and some dotting tools.

What was supposed to be a brief morning’s introduction to dotting, turned into a 5-hour marathon session which changed my life forever and had me completely hooked. After Angela left, I jumped in the car and went straight to the local art store and bought everything I needed to get started. That was the 13th of November 2018 and I have pretty much dotted every day since.

Hazel Kirby began practicing Mandala Art when she found herself taken with the works of another local artist at Artwalk in 2018 and was offered some mentoring. She has been painting dots ever since and started selling her works to make room to keep practicing, donating the money she makes to local charities that are close to her heart! to dry before attempting the next row. This technique allows me to get my dots nice and close together which is just my preference. If the previous row is still wet when I start the next row if the dots run, then invariably I have to wipe off everything and start again from the beginning.

Sometimes when I’m working on a piece, I’ll be thinking a certain size and colour dot will look good on the next row, but by the time the paint is dry and I’m ready to start that row I’ll see that a different colour and sized dot might work better. So now I don’t get too focused on a specific design and just let the dots decide for me.

Continued over...

Can you describe your creative process when starting a new piece?

Firstly, I decide on the colour of the centre dot, and then work out what colours might complement or contrast with it. After that I just let the design grow one row and one colour at a time.

I usually work on about 10 completely different pieces at the same time, just painting a single row on each and allowing it GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 41

Hazel KIRBY You create your designs on many different items, can you tell us about some of the pieces you mostly work on?

I hand make all my stones from a gypsum powder that I mix with water and pour into individual silicone molds. Currently I have about 25 different shaped molds, from tiny little fridge magnets to 30cm shallow bowls.

I have a large variety of tea light candle holders, jewellery bowls, orbs, necklaces, plates, incense holders, lady bugs, pen holders, paperweights and more.

I love painting on all my stones, I enjoy the variety, but the super large bowls are definitely one of my favourites because they are always challenging and require a lot of concentration and well, focus.

In addition to making and painting my gypsum stones I also dot paint wooden boxes, photo frames, MDF letters and the occasional canvas, plus I also make sweet little fabric piggy doorstops.

How long does it typically take you to complete a piece?

From start to finish the process takes about 42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

4-6 weeks depending on the size and detail of the specific piece. It begins with the pouring process. I’ll make at least 30-40 casts over a week and leave them to dry out on racks for at least another week. Once the stones are completely dry, I’ll begin sanding back any rough edges and fill in any tiny air bubbles. Next, each From start stone is given 3 base to finish the coats of black paint, process takes about I’ve found this helps 4-6 weeks depending to seal the stone and it gives an excellent on the size and detail surface for dotting. of the specific piece.

protects the art work I’ll make at least 30-40 Once all the and enhances the colour preparation is casts over a week and and finish of the design. complete, I can finally leave them to dry out What motivated start creating. You on racks for at least you to donate your can’t rush the dotting another week. income from your art phase, if there is one sales to charities? thing I’ve learnt it’s Actually, it was my husband’s idea. Once I patience. However, that doesn’t mean I can’t started dotting it didn’t take long before be dotting 10 different pieces consecutively. every available surface in every room of our Once completed each piece is then sealed house was packed with brightly coloured with 4 coats of a gloss varnish which both

H A Z E L’ S H O M E O F D OT S

stones. If I kept going the way I was, the house would have collapsed under the weight. So, we knew we had to do something.

Everyone remembers the devastating impact on our local wildlife from the 2019 bushfires and then 2021 and 2022 floods.

These natural catastrophic events devastated our native animal population as well as At the time we were both fundraising destroyed their local habitat. I personally felt volunteers for a local charity. He suggested so helpless but also wanted to help in some we book a spot at the local Foreshore way. Meanwhile we were hearing incredible Market and see if we could sell some stones heartwarming stories from animal welfare and raise valuable funds for the charity. organisations who were I have to say, I doing whatever they was very nervous could to rescue and wondering what I’m also rehabilitate our sick and people would think delighted when injured wildlife. So, this of my work and if customers ask me to is why I now donate they even would be my sales to a number paint them a specific good enough to sell. of animal charities, it’s custom piece in the As it turned out I just my way of helping colours and design of thoroughly enjoyed the people that do such their choice. the day, just talking to an amazing job in these people, sharing their organisations. love of a particular colour and watching how they chose something from the table.

It was this experience that convinced me to continue donating the sale of my stones to a variety of animal charities, and also just enjoy sharing my love of dotting with others.

Can you share any personal experiences or stories that fuelled your passion for animal welfare?

Hazel’s Home of Dots has grown from a hobby into a busy project, what are your plans or aspirations for the future with your art?

Good question. I’m always interested in exploring new dotting techniques and designs as well as looking for new shapes to incorporate into my collection. I’m also delighted when customers ask me to paint

them a specific custom piece in the colours and design of their choice. I’ve also had some great suggestions and feedback from customers attending the market stall, which have often been integrated into my work.

Do you have any upcoming markets or events where people can see and purchase your work?

Weather permitting, I will be at the Port Macquarie Foreshore Markets on Saturday 13 July. To find me just look for the big purple tent with the Hazel’s Home of Dots logo. As it takes quite a while for me to make enough pieces for each market, I usually only attend between 4 – 5 times a year. The best way to check up on my movements is to visit my facebook page.

Where can we stay up to date on your work or get in touch?

Easiest way to see what I’m doing is through my facebook page hazelshomeofdots. I post photos of all my pieces onto this page and so if you find something you like you can always message me on facebook directly or contact me by email at hazelshomeofdots@ gmail.com Thanks Hazel.

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COLLINS BOOKSELLERS

BOOK Review J U L Y

Red River Road

By Anna Downes RRP: $34.99

Lose yourself in a good book and let your mind wander

Another excellent Australian crime fiction book that follows Katy as she travels up the Coral Coast in WA searching for her missing sister, Phoebe. As she makes her way along the route that Phoebe travelled, a battered and bruised Lily - who is clearly on the run from something or someone - hitches a ride with Katy. Suspicions, secrets, and stories pull Katy into a web of dangerous liaisons that will keep you flicking through the pages to get to the next chapter. An

excellent thriller with characters that may make you think twice before taking that solo trip you’ve been thinking about.

The Anxious Generation

By Jonathan Haidt RRP: $36.99

Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie is locally owned and operated 64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie 2444 Phone: 5590 0797 Email: portmacquarie@collinsbooks.com.au Socials: collinsbooksportmacquarie 44 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Becoming known as the ‘disconnected generation’ this book delves into the social issues, environmental challenges, the increased mental distress among adolescents. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt argues that the decline in free-play and the rise in smartphones for children as young as 10 years old contribute significantly to the disconnection between adolescents and their

family and society more broadly.

This is a serious book which addresses serious issues facing this generation and beyond, and proposes some strategies for parents, schools, governments, and teens themselves.

FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON EITHER OF THESE BOOKS, BRING THIS AD INTO OUR STORE at 64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, or phone order on 5590 0797.

T

ell us the history behind the Naidu Theatre Company.

Naidu Theatre Company is an Independent Theatre Company from the Mid-North Coast, producing original shows and some of your favourite classics such as Disney’s Moana, Frozen and more. We are a family-run company based out of Woolgoolga, and we focus on projects that creatively grow and develop youth and adults in our region. We are proud of our Indian Fijian heritage, which also inspires us to produce unique cultural work!

Naidu Theatre Co is affiliated with Woolgoolga Performing Arts Studio and together the two performing arts businesses bring unique and diverse opportunities to our community!

Can you introduce us to the team that produces these amazing shows.

BILLIE is creatively directed by the incredible team of Tegan Haley and Hayley Evans award-winning choreographers who have both worked professionally and locally for many years.

Jade Naidu and Jackson Gray (Producers from Naidu Theatre Company) produce all of NTC’s shows, while Lighting Designer Finn Appleton (Sydney Opera House) brings absolute

Billie

magic to the stage with his vision for lighting and sound.

Our cast of 8 are dancers aged 16-18 years who have been dancing and performing all of their lives! Matthew McGhee, Seeana Harre, Ella Sinclair, Ella Grace Chowdhury, Lauren Blair, Heidi Blades, Daisy Dusting and Isobel Stockton make up our amazing cast after our auditions in 2023.

Tell us about the show Billie; what can we expect from this production?

BILLIE is a performance art style show that showcases our cast of 8 to music inspired

by Billie Eilish. The themes and stories Billie Eilish tells through her music are so relatable

to everyone, no matter what age you are.

Each cast member has their own journey that they experience in the show, whether it’s selfdoubt, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, etc.

Experiencing young adult’s vulnerability through movement is a powerful thing to witness! There is 70 minutes of absolute magic on stage, no words spoken, yet hearts are moving mountains.

It is the perfect show for kids, teens and adults.

No matter who you are, you will go on your own journey with us! We are excited to be bringing this show to Coffs Harbour (which has almost sold out!) and Taree which will feature dancers from Port Macquarie’s La Vive Studios as our local guests.

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E • GREA

UA R I E

•

ID

CQ

NING GU

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-PO RT M

46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

COVER DISH CRISPY SKINNED SALMON SERVED WITH SPICED PUMPKIN PUREE, CHARRED BROCCOLINI AND CRISPY CHAT POTATOES. BAGO TAVERN

FRANKIES Fun vibes, delicious food and sunny mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you! Yes YOU! With a fun team and delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us!

Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and

freshest salads.

Fresh juices are perfect for these warm spring days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate.

Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

Open 7 days a week from 6:30am till 3:00pm Closed Public Holidays

Drift B A R C A FE RE STAU RA N T

Drift into comfort this season at Port City Bowling Club’s Drift Restaurant, where culinary delight meets cozy ambience!

Whether you are seeking a hearty meal to chase away the winter chill or a light flavourful dish to enjoy with friends before a night out dancing, Drift can

cater to every palate! Our updated menu also features refreshed club classics and a full vegetarian menu tailored for the season.

Don’t forget to check out our weekly specials offering great budget friendly options throughout the week.

F R A N K I E ’S 14 Clarence St Port Macquarie CONNECT WITH US Open daily 6.30am to 3pm 6583 7387 | frankiesportmacquarie.com.au /frankies.pmq /frankies.pmq frankiespmq@gmail.com

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 47

Locally Inspired, Small Batch Gin HAND CRAFTED GIN that represents the passion for where we live, surrounded by the bounty of nature.

Try one of our signature Gins and see what everyone’s talking about!

bushbloomdistillery.com.au 48 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 49

C A R L A + P E T E MCINNES

BUSH BLOOM Distery

Welcome to Bush Bloom Distillery, where passion meets flavour in every bo le of our uniquely cra ed gin. We had the pleasure of meeting Carla and Pete McInnes and finding out all about their new business venture and Bush Bloom Distillery.

P

lease introduce yourselves to our readers?

Hi, we are Carla and Pete McInnes from Bush Bloom Distillery in Hannam Vale.

We bought our farm as a bush block 18 years ago, and have since built our home, raised our children and developed our piece of paradise into the productive land it is today. We like to work hard and then enjoy our down time by exploring the world, riding our motorbikes and spending quality time with our kids, Bec and Connor.

What inspired the creation of this distillery?

We have a keen interest in food and beverages and love to indulge in different cuisines and flavours. I developed an interest in gin, and once I began trying quality Australian craft gins my curiosity was sparked and I began investigating what it takes to make gin. I travelled to Tasmania and attended a distilling course at Old Kempton Distillery, and my passion grew from there. I continued 50 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

with my study and experimentation, and the Bush Bloom dream continued to organically grow until our launch 2 months ago.

Can you explain the gin-making process from start to finish?

Making gin requires a clean neutral spirit, which is then distilled I developed using a variety of dried an interest batch of gin? and fresh botanicals. in gin, and once I The process begins the To be called gin, began trying quality day before when we you need to include Australian cra gins weigh our ingredients, juniper berries in your my curiosity was and macerate them ingredients and the sparked and I began in our neutral spirit final alcohol by volume investigating what it overnight. Once we (ABV) needs to be turn the still on, it takes takes to make gin. above 37%. We use between 5 – 6 hours to the ‘One Shot’ method, complete the distillation. in which all of our We like to let our gin rest for at least a month botanicals are placed into the still with our to let the flavours settle and develop before neutral spirit. Once distillation is complete, we bottling. then cut our spirit with filtered rain water, to bring the ABV down to 43%.

What is the typical production time for a

How do you ensure consistency in your gin production?

When developing my recipes I ensured that all ingredients used were going to be readily available, even if not existing from our usual suppliers.

mango, passionfruit, kaffir lime leaves and macadamia nuts.

to a point where the sales are reliable, but we plan to stay a small craft distillery moving forward.

Dr Ginny – Bush Honey and Warm Spices, uses our dry gin as a base in which we macerate local bush honey and warming spices such as ginger and turmeric and cinnamon to create a unique gin like

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

no other.

Do you experiment with seasonal or limited edition gins?

At this stage we are building our range of standard gins, but would love to experiment with more of our local and seasonal produce in the future.

Consistency comes from good processes and quality ingredients. When developing my recipes I ensured that all ingredients used were going to be readily available, even if not existing from our usual suppliers.

What is the flavour profile of your gin?

So far we produce 3 different gins.

Bush Bloom – Dry Gin, is juniper forward and contains traditional dry gin ingredients, but is layered with Australian botanicals such as cinnamon myrtle, Dorrigo pepper, roasted wattle seed and bush lemons.

Full Bloom – Summer Gin, is fruit forward and highlights the flavours of summer by including

How do you minimise waste and environmental impact?

We minimise waste by recycling the cooling water used in our still, and composting the used botanicals from our distillation runs. Our distillery runs on a 12 volt solar battery system, with our still running off mains power and counteracted by our roof top solar system. All our packaging is compostable, and avoiding the use of plastic is a priority. Sustainability is an important aspect of our business, and we will continue to look for ways to improve our practices.

What is your vision for Bush Bloom?

I would like to continue to grow our business

In 5 years time I would love to have our gin range complete (5 – 6 gins), and have the time to experiment with seasonal, limited release ranges. A cellar door is also on our radar, either at our farm, or another suitable space closer to the highway.

Do you offer any distillery tours or experiences?

At this stage we are not licensed as a cellar door, so can’t accommodate the public at our premises. We have some events coming up where we are collaborating with local businesses, which will give interested people a chance to try our products. Join us at Little Shack Port Macquarie, where we will be hosted for a ‘Meet the Maker’ event on July 6th, between 2-5pm. Following this will be a ‘Gin Masterclass’ at Miss Lucy’s Port Mac, on the afternoon of the 10th of August (more information to come).

How can consumers best support your Distillery?

Our products can be bought directly from us via our website: bushbloomdistillery.com.au We also offer free delivery to local customers!

Please email us to enquire and place your order for this service at bushbloom@hotmail.com.

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focus_contributor.

Palate with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

B

COME OUT COME OUT, Wherever Y O U

A R E

rrrr... temps have for sure plummeted in the last few weeks. Carrying on with the theme from last month’s column ‘Red Wine Weather’, still feels fitting given the current

flirtation with that phenomenon known as winter – we may need to cast off those ugg boots and Oodies like those others staring down the barrel of much more prolonged and brutal winters and realise that in fact, you can very much get out and about in the midst of it and embrace the cold!

immediately obvious that Port Mac is a seasonal place. For sure as the town grows, so does its year-round appeal but still there’s a pretty big difference between a night out in June and one in January. In terms of the vibe, how busy everything is, where’s one car park, how long for a taxi…you name it.

After all when winter’s grip is a fleeting one in such fair climes as ours, we need to make the most of the good stuff of the season.

So throw off that doona and get amongst it! First off in Winter 101 is adequate clothing. You guessed it, that means the Port Macquarian’s national costume of shorts, T-shirts and thongs must be rejected for the moment. It’s a bittersweet moment and often leads to initial wardrobe malfunctions in the quest for suitable attire for the season.

Aka - is it puffer jacket weather or is that too extreme? Or, where to find the closed toed shoe options…somewhere in the back of the closet I hope. Then the actual weirdness of the feel of long pants after an eternity of shorts. Looks weird, feels even weirder. Let’s not even go near accessories then – beanies, scarves, gloves. Nope – they’re for real winters mate! But hey, why not…if it helps you feel more ok about leaving the house in a security blanket kind of way then why not?

Winter time events such as Artwalk help massively in getting reluctant locals out on the town, but that is just one night out of many.

conditions.

First off, apart from actually having to get out of bed to less than temperate conditions, who else is loving this colder snap this year?

Yes, even those rainy, windy miserable days (at least until the novelty wears off and cabin fever ensues).

What to do on these shorter days and dark, dark nights you might wonder? Well naturally, hibernating indeed seems like a tempting option. Why wouldn’t you make like a bear and bunker down until spring in the nearest cave aka your living room with Netflix and snacks abundant?

We’ve all been there, that’s for sure. The pull of the couch can be irresistible and it sure is nice to give in to that, I’ll be the first to admit.

However, for ourselves here on the Mid North Coast of NSW who dabble in this annual brief 52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Ok so attire – sorted! Great, ready to leave the cave. Once you’re out it’s usually

The fact is that businesses are still open – restaurants, bars and clubs and even if you don’t want to go out in the cold, we still have to.

So why not take advantage of the season, rather than battening down the hatches?

After all, it’s easier to get a table at your fave joint and easier to park. You can embrace the wonderful snuggly feel of layering fashion, you are hungrier than you are in summer, and, thirstier for red wine and deliciously warming spirits.

What are you waiting for? Those crisp clear, cold and perhaps windy and rainy nights out are ripe and ready for you to hit the town.

Guaranteed, you will arrive home warmed and cheered!

WHAT’S ON THIS JULY AT PORT CITY BOWLNG CLUB

MON

BINGO 10am

BINGO 10am

LOW & SLOW SPECIAL Available lunch only at Drift

LOW & SLOW SPECIAL Available lunch only at Drift

STEAK MONDAY AT DRIFT Available Lunch & Dinner

FRI

HAPPY HOUR 5pm – 6pm

MEMBERS DRAW Draws at 6pm & 7pm 2nd Chance Draw at 7.30pm

LOW & SLOW SPECIAL Available lunch only at Drift

TUE

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Visit our website to view our monthly line-up

CHICKEN SCHNITZEL TUESDAY AT DRIFT Available Lunch & Dinner

POKER 7pm

HAPPY HOUR 5pm – 6pm POKER 6pm LOW & SLOW SPECIAL Available lunch only at Drift

WED

TRAVELLING BOWLERS RAFFLE Tickets on sale from 5pm Drawn at 7pm

WINGS & RIBS AT DRIFT Available Lunch & Dinner TRIVIA WITH GERRY 7pm LOW & SLOW SPECIAL Available lunch only at Drift

THU

SAT

HAPPY HOUR 5pm – 6pm MEMBERS DRAW Draws at 6pm & 7pm 2nd Chance Draw at 7.30pm

FISHING CLUB RAFFLE Tickets on sale from 5pm Drawn at 7pm FRESH CATCH THURSDAY AT DRIFT Available Lunch & Dinner HAPPY HOUR 5pm – 6pm

FRIDAY RIPPA RAFFLE Tickets on sale from 5pm Drawn at 7pm

TAB HOUR OF POWER 1pm – 2pm LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Visit our website to view our monthly line-up ROAST SUNDAY AT DRIFT Available Lunch & Dinner

SUN

LOCALS RAFFLE OF THE CENTURY Tickets on sale 3:30pm Drawn 5pm

VISIT PORTCITY.COM.AU FOR UPCOMING EVENTS & UPDATES *Conditions apply

54 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 49

Ken IN THE

Finnians S C O T T

W

hat inspired you to become a chef? My parents and grandparents were always cooking and baking, so my earliest memories are huddled around different kitchens creating memories.

These memories have formed into a lifelong passion for me which has cultivated itself into a career for me.

Can you share a memorable dish from your culinary journey? I vividly remember a time in London, early in my career with a couple of industry mates. We tried these beautiful poached oysters, served with cucumber spaghetti and foam. Our group of 3 was served 4 oysters and I remember winning a scissors, paper, rock competition to have the extra oyster! I never thought oysters could taste that good!

What is your approach to cooking? I try to keep things simple, focusing on fresh ingredients to shine through, without over complicating or adding too many different elements. In my experience, when younger chefs design a dish, they add 6 or 7 flavours

56 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

when sometimes 3 well thought out ingredients is all that’s needed.

T I L L O T

I try to keep things simple, focusing on fresh ingredients to shine through, without over complicating or adding too many different elements.

How do you stay creative and innovative in the kitchen? I find a lot of the time I’m serving the food I’d like to be served if I was eating out. I find my great team operates in a similar way.

Kitchens are already such creative places with individuals from all different experiences, this ensures there is no shortage of influences to stay creative and innovative.

What are some essential tools or ingredients you always have in your kitchen? I always make sure to work with suppliers to have the best seasonal ingredients at hand. When you have ingredients in season and at their peak, the cooking side is easy.

However, a good quality butter and salt go a long way!

Can you describe your signature dish and what makes it special? Personally, my focus has always been on the next dish I am

creating, rather than a signature dish, as you’re only as good as the last dish you served.

But if I was to ask my partner, she’d say it’s my Pappardelle Ragu. She always requests this, as she loves the thick, homemade pasta with its dense, rich, unctuous sauce.

What advice would you give to aspiring chefs who are just starting out? Ask lots of questions and be curious. Don’t be afraid to learn about different ingredients, strive to learn new and better techniques. Taste absolutely everything! Again and again!

Can you share a cooking tip or technique that home cooks might find useful?

Pre-planning meals is always helpful, and good for the budget. Planning can help you create extremely tasty dishes using in season ingredients. My favourite trick currently is using any leftovers from a roast. The next day these leftovers can be chopped up, put into a pancake batter, to make delightful fritter snacks the next day and beyond!

M A N A G E R L A C H L A N H O R S L E Y, H E A D C H E F S C O T T T I L L O T & MANAGER COREY BAKER

C

an you describe the dining experience that guests can expect at your restaurant?

Here at Finnians, we pride ourselves on our full-service approach in a casual setting to give the guests the best dining experience possible. Our freshly made meals are delivered to your table by our bubbly, smiling staff and no ask is too much for our team.

How do you source your ingredients, and do you prioritise local or seasonal produce? We source our ingredients through a range of local suppliers. Our menu undergoes a seasonal refresh, ensuring access

to produce which is always up to our high-quality standards. We ensure that our chefs specials board is changing daily to take advantage of what the local suppliers have in season at the time.

How do you ensure consistency in the quality of your food and service? We are

lucky to have some of the best staff around at our venue and this helps us ensure the consistency of both the product and service is always at a high level. Chef is always working with suppliers to ensure that we are using the freshest local produce, and our front of house team are kept happy to ensure that we can provide our signature Finnian’s service to all those who come through!

How do you accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences for your guests? Here at Finnian’s, we always accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure that all guests can experience our high standard of hospitality.

Our menu has diverse options including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free items. Our specials board is also regularly updated with creations which could suit guests with dietary requirements. Our kitchen team work together to ensure there is no cross contamination when creating these dishes. We also ensure that we are communicating with guests to provide them with the best experience possible and we remain committed to being as flexible as possible to ensure that we are able to cater to all.

Thanks Corey GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 57

52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Tasting Notes The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a captivating blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy notes. On the nose, the aroma of Fortaleza Reposado mingles with the earthy, smoky essence of Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, creating an inviting scent that hints at the complexities to come.

Upon the first sip, the cocktail reveals its rich and smooth base, courtesy of the Fortaleza Reposado. The subtle caramel and vanilla undertones of the tequila complement the robust smokiness of the Mezcal, offering a unique balance of flavours. The agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness, which is perfectly offset by the mole chocolate bitters, providing a hint of spice and deep cocoa undertones.

As you continue to sip, the layers of flavour continue to unfold, revealing notes of cinnamon, clove, and dark chocolate. The cocktail finishes with a warm, lingering aftertaste that invites you to take another sip, ensuring that the Oaxacan Old Fashioned becomes a memorable addition to our cocktail repertoire.

The Oaxacan

Old

Fashioned Discover the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, a cocktail that combines the rich flavours of Oaxaca with the classic charm of an Old Fashioned.

Crafted with Fortaleza Reposado, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, agave syrup, and mole chocolate bitters, this drink is a journey into the heart of Mexican spirits.

Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Mezcal, the Oaxacan Old Fashioned is sure to captivate your senses. Sip and savour the warmth, complexity, and unique character of this extraordinary cocktail.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 59

S O U L

S I S T E R

G R A Z I N G

Rebecca Stockw Rebecca Stockwell is the woman behind Soul Sister Grazing, which started as a hobby and has now grown into an award winning, much loved local business!

H

i Beck, can you tell us about the history of Soul Sister Grazing and how it all began?

Six years ago Soul Sister Grazing started out to only ever be a hobby. I worked another job and had Soul Sisters on the side offering showstopper grazing tables and grazing boxes. Six years later and it’s now a 7 day a week job working up to 80 hours a week sometimes.

When you love what you do and have a passion for your job it shows.

What do you enjoy most about creating grazing tables in particular?

I love talking to my clients, finding out what they like and don’t like, I love when customers say ‘Beck, I trust you to create your magic’.

I like trying new things. Doing the same thing everyday to me would be boring. I’m forever 60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

changing and moving with the times, you have to evolve in business, that’s what makes Soul Sister Grazing stand out.

You have been involved in many different events, what are some stand out jobs you’ve had or some fave types of events you have catered for?

I love weddings. Everyone is in a good mood and they want to celebrate and have a good time.

When they walk into a room and see a beautiful big grazing table and you hear them say wow !!! My job is done. That makes me happy!

I also love doing corporate events and I have such a great connection with so many businesses in town, it keeps me very busy.

business here in Port Macquarie?

Being original. You have to stay in front as people will always try and copy you, that’s business. You have to have great customer service and I pride myself on that, and being organised, have a plan in place.

I have just completed a 4 day event at CSU and I enjoy working with them. We have a great relationship.

You have been involved in a few charity fundraisers locally, what inspires you to continue to contribute to the community in this way?

What do you believe are the key elements to running a successful

Volunteering is a long time passion for me.

My Nan used to run meals on wheels in

Newcastle and I would go in and help. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have what others have and it does not take much to be a good person.

After the Awards I gave all three finalists a little gift to make them smile. It was a photo of us just to remind people that good things happen when women support women.

I often cook for Port Macquarie homeless and volunteer some Christmas mornings to kids in care, giving the presents to open from Santa. I have dropped off Easter treats to the nursing homes for the beautiful old people who don’t get anything, and I also help young girls (with a past) get into cooking. I just want people to feel good about themselves. To me charity work is not just about donating money, that’s easy, but to put your time and effort into helping is so rewarding.

You recently took out the Woman in Business Award at the Coastline Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards, how did it feel to receive this recognition?

I was in total shock !!! I was a finalist with 3 other amazing business women and we are all in different businesses.

For me to win was just the best feeling in the world! When you work hard, and I honestly put blood sweat and tears into my business,

people can see. I was just so overwhelmed by all the messages, phone calls, emails etc of love and support it was amazing, I still walk down the street and people congratulate me and I had so many people say they wanted me to win.

That for me just makes me feel so proud.

After the Awards I gave all three finalists a little gift to make them smile. It was a photo of us just to remind people that good things happen when women support women.

Soul Sister Grazing has grown from a hobby to a thriving business, what advice would you give to other women looking to create their dream job and go into small business?

GO FOR IT !!!

8 years ago I had no idea where my life was going to take me, I had hit rock bottom in my personal and professional life. Life as I knew it was not the same.

Soul Sister Grazing was really only ever meant to be a hobby with 2 best friends.

Things change and people change, but I knew I could not give up on Soul Sister Grazing so I made it work on my own and

wow look at it now! The person I was 8 years ago is not the same as the strong independent person you see today. It’s very uplifting for others to see that on your darkest days, I can promise you the next day and the next day after that will only get better and brighter.

I only ever want people to do good in their business and life and that’s why you see me promote others. I recommend; I do collaborations with other businesses; I have businesses call me for advice or just to have a chat if they are feeling like business is too much and they want to give up. I’m that person that wants to help and only do good for others.

If we all just did one nice thing a month for one other business, like a recommendation, a comment or send a text, call and say hello, how good would that be? How good would someone feel? How good would it make you feel?

Let’s start to be uplifting, stop undercutting your competition. Stop getting people to order things off you, so you can then copy what others have worked so hard for to be original. Stop copying business ideas and calling them your own, let’s work together.

There is enough business in our great town for everyone.

Thanks Rebecca GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 61

Little Mermaid

The

Prepare to dive into the enchanting and magical underwater world of The Little Mermaid JR, when Got Ya Back recreate this Disney classic.

Like Frozen JR last year, this is a school holiday spectacle that will delight!

This is an all in interactive and immersive experience featuring bubble storms, giant inflatable tentacles and an awesomely talented cast of youth performers,

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JR

all aged between 13 and 18 years.

Get set to get WET in this undersea odyssey adapted from Disney’s hit Broadway production.

We’ll voyage “under the sea” to the magical oceanic kingdom of Ariel and her aquatic friends in this captivating family theatre experience drenched in fun.

Take the plunge and make this unforgettable frolic a part of your family’s world this holiday break.

ORDER UP LOCALS We all know how busy life is, but do you know we have an exciting website that enables you to choose pick up or delivery?

Check out our easy fruit and veg boxes each with a “Kenny Surprise” included for this month only. Why not let us simplify your week and we will deliver straight to your door or even the office.

At Kenny’s, we pride ourselves

on supporting locals. Do you know we have several egg suppliers that are arriving fresh daily to stock our shelves up.

Buying locally strengthens the community and gives us such unique products. Remember to shop local, eat local, spend local and enjoy local.

PORT MACQUARIE GOLF CLUB INVITES MEMBERS AND THEIR GUESTS TO THE

what’sat the ON Club ITALIAN NIGHT Every Tuesday from 5.30pm

TRIVIA AND SCHNITZEL NIGHT Every Wednesday from 5.30pm

SEAFOOD NIGHT & PUTT FOR DOUGH Every Thursday from 5.30pm

MEAT & SEAFOOD RAFFLES Every Friday from 6pm

MEMBER’S BADGE DRAW Fridays at 6.30pm and 8pm

SUNDAY ROAST Every Sunday from 1130am

HAPPY HOUR Schooners & House Wines | $5.50 Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm

COURTESY BUS Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm Restaurant opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 11.30am to 2pm & 5.30pm to 8pm Sunday – 11.30am to 2.30pm ............................................

Port Macquarie Golf Club 700 Ocean Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444 reception@portmacquariegolf.com.au | (02) 6582 0409

Saturday 2O July 2024 from 6.3Opm Dress code: formal Book your seats or table of 10 Limited numbers available 3 course dinner 4 hour drinks package Entertainment by Alter Ego

Cost $120p/p For bookings: call (02) 6582 0409 www.portmacquariegolf.com.au Free Courtesy Bus available from 5pm, book at reception GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 63

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented and renowned chef, Andy Allen. With an impressive culinary background and a passion for creating exceptional dishes, Chef Andy has made a name for himself in the culinary world. From his innovative cooking style to his commitment to sourcing local ingredients, Chef Andy continues to inspire and delight food enthusiasts around the globe.

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H

i Andy, can you tell us about your culinary background and how you became a chef?

After winning MasterChef in 2012 I took up the opportunity to do some work experience at Three Blue Ducks Bronte. I instantly fell in love with the culture, philosophy and style of food that The Ducks were known for and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Fast forward ten years and I'm super proud to be a part owner of our five venues. I'm at my happiest when I'm in the kitchen creating and enjoying some laughs with our staff and customers.

What is your cooking style or approach to creating dishes?

One of the reasons I was drawn to The Ducks is our uncomplicated approach to cooking with a focus on local produce and sustainability.

We're not trying to reinvent the wheel with our food, we just want to produce good, honest food and max out of flavour with every dish we put up.

How do you stay inspired and continuously come up with new and innovative recipes?

I'm always inspired wherever I look when it comes to food. Whether that be learning from my peers in the restaurants, travelling abroad, meeting new producers, or even taking inspiration from all the talented home cooks that I'm fortunate enough to see in the MasterChef kitchen.

Can you tell us about the story behind Three Blue Ducks in Bellingen? How did it all begin and what led you to open the restaurant?

The town of Bello is what got us hooked on the project. We love the vibe, the people and the producers that are on our doorstep. It's a stunning part of the world.

What sets Three Blue Ducks in Bellingen apart from other restaurants in the area? How do you create a unique dining experience for your customers?

The town of Bello is what got us hooked on the project. We love the vibe, the people and the producers that are on our doorstep.

It’s a stunning part of the world.

I think the location of the restaurant sets it apart. It sits amongst The Lodge’s 16 acres of manicured gardens with views across the surrounding Dorrigo National Park. Plus the fact that you can make a weekend of visiting us by staying at the Lodge, switching off, having a meal at The Ducks and exploring everything else that Bello has to offer.

Sustainability is a key focus for Three Blue Ducks. Can you share some of the sustainable practices that you have

implemented in your restaurant?

When choosing our products, we consider three main factors: the product’s origin, the cultivation method, and the packaging. We also aim to use every part of the product and compost any leftovers for future food growth. Our seafood is ethically and seasonally sourced from either Australia or New Zealand, our meat is sourced from farms that prioritise high animal welfare practices and we utilise as much of the whole animal as we can. We do not use plastic

bags, containers, or cups and instead opt for biodegradable packaging, glass, and paper and we work with our suppliers to reduce plastics also.

How do you source your ingredients for the menu? Do you prioritise local and organic produce?

At Three Blue Ducks, we are committed to making environmentally conscious decisions when it comes to the ingredients we use in our food. We believe in utilising local, sustainably sourced, and ethically produced items.

Continued over....

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Mushroom custard, ginger, green shallot Coffs Coast Mushrooms.

Collaboration seems to be an important aspect of Three Blue Ducks. Can you talk about any collaborations you have done with other local businesses or organisations?

We've recently started working with Good Cup in Byron Bay to reduce take-away coffee cups.

It is a simple reusable takeaway coffee cup that people can borrow instead of using a single use take away cup. Customers pay a deposit when they use the cup and it's refunded back to them when they return it.

If it works well in Byron we'd love to bring it to Bello.

ANDY ALLEN

Three Blue Ducks has a reputation for its farm-to-table concept. Could you elaborate on the importance of supporting local farmers and producers in your business?

We've always wanted to promote a sense of community in the areas where our venues are. For us there's no better way to do this, than supporting local producers. We're super lucky with Bello - whether it be the land or the sea, we've got access to some top-notch produce.

Three Blue Ducks is known for its innovative and delicious dishes. Can you share some of the signature dishes on your menu and the inspiration behind them?

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What is your vision for the future of Three Blue Ducks in Bellingen? Are there any upcoming projects or plans you can share with us?

We've learnt a lot over our first year of trading about the region and the local community. The next The menu for year is about building on the Bellingen the relationships we've Long Lunch that built in that area. We're Daz, our Head chef also super keen to roll Dani and myself out more food, wine and have created, is music events, which are in the works. Stay tuned! complete with

The menu for the Bellingen Long Lunch unseen dishes. We Lastly, what advice that Daz, our Head want to make it would you give to Chef Dani and myself exciting for not aspiring restaurant have created, is owners who want to just us, but the complete with unseen create a successful locals and anyone dishes. We want to and sustainable dining else who comes to make it exciting for not experience like Three the event. just us, but the locals Blue Ducks? and anyone else who Look I'm not going to comes to the event. shy away from saying times are pretty tough We're going to highlight existing producers in the industry at the moment. That being we use, but also utilise ingredients from said, I think it's super important to back farmers in the area that we haven't worked yourself, and stay true to your vision and with before. Some examples are, Smoked values. trout doughnuts - Bellingen Smokehouse, Bone marrow flatbread - Bello Beef,

Thanks Andy

I'm not going to shy away from saying times are pretty tough in the industry at the moment.

That being said, I think it's super important to back yourself, and stay true to your vision and values.

Bellingen Long Lunch Bellingen Winter Food & Wine Escape July 12th to the 14th Bookings visit threeblueducks.com/ bellingen-food-wine-escape

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TOM MWANZA A K A

T L A R M O N

Tom Mwanza, or Tlarmon as he’s known in the music world, is originally from Zambia and moved to Australia in 2010. He has become a popular fixture on the local music scene with his fun Afro Pop sound!

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C

an you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?

pub gigs. I’m now a regular in venues like the Hoey Moey in Coffs Harbour to amazing local venues like Hello Sailor, The Local, Moorebeer, Chop n Chill and many more - showcasing everything from classics to RnB.

It all started in a little mining town called Chingola in the Who were your biggest musical Copperbelt province in Zambia. Zambia influences growing up? has over 93 tribes and cultures intertwined Influences include the great Franco and music was central for how the tribes Luambo (Congo DRC), Stevie Wonder, got along. From just a boy at the age of 5 Prince and Michael Jackson. Not forgetting with a love for voice, harmony and sounds Zambian Paul Ngozi and PK Chishala.

- Tlarmon was born. The name Tlarmon How would you describe your musical is an acronym meaning Time Love And style?

Rhythm Melody On Notes. When I was The genre is called Afro pop – a fusion asked to join a choir playing hand drums of afro beats and modern day pop/hip and then becoming director in the same hop. It’s a dynamic blend of African and year and winning competitions, music Western music guaranteed to get you up was definitely my passion. My Mum was out of your seat and dancing! a great singer and my Dad was a guitarist How has your so my love for music music evolved since was inescapable. you first started After high school, One thing that performing?

I went on to work really stands with artists on an A big thing for me is international level as out is the great to stay connected to a recording engineer response I get from my roots and honour at Tymeline records in my culture and so the Port Macquarie Lusaka – the capital my original work locals every time I go city of Zambia. This continues to reflect busking there. People continued to some that. Instrument wise, taking the time to big international the focus now has stop and chat is a real recording studios moved from keyboards highlight and the in cities like Cape to solo performances connections I’ve Town in South Africa featuring guitar and made with so many and countries like vocals. Performing at local venue owners is Mozambique and weddings has really really amazing.

Namibia. The love for taken off recently performance grew and I love being a after doing tours special part of such an with a gospel group (Rachel and the Elect important day. band) on keyboards and composition. In Do you write your own music? Can 2010 I moved to Australia and completed you walk us through your typical a Bachelor of Music at Southern Cross songwriting process?

University. After completing that I decided Yes I definitely do. I have over 90 original to pursue a solo career and I started songs recorded currently, a single called “I busking. This has rapidly expanded to now Might Turn Up” and an album on Spotify doing weddings, festivals, restaurants and

called Full Speed. The typical process starts with the rhythm of the song, the melody and then the lyrics. I record and produce all my own music.

Can you share a memorable moment or a highlight from your career so far?

There was an event I was invited to at Hoey Moey in Coffs Harbour and I performed one of my original songs called ‘Move Your Body’. The response from the crowd dancing and singing my songs was so memorable! To be able to represent and bring a completely different culture to Australian people was so incredible!

What do you think makes the local music community unique or special?

One thing that really stands out is the great response I get from the Port Macquarie locals every time I go busking there. People taking the time to stop and chat is a real highlight and the connections I’ve made with so many local venue owners is really amazing.

What can fans expect from you in the near future? Are there any upcoming releases or events?

My brand, Tlarmon Music, is expanding into an entertainment empire from performing to providing services like DJing and now gearing up to start providing video and photography services. I am also in the final editing stages of a brand new digital course teaching piano harmony that will be self paced for beginners and beyond. I am also headlining the Wingham Music Festival this year in October on the Sunday backed by a full band for some Afro grooves.

How can people stay updated with your music and upcoming events?

You can check out Tlarmon Music on Spotify for the album (Full Speed) and for the future releases of all the other original music. Jump on and follow Tlarmon Music on Facebook or Instagram.

Thanks Tom.

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BAGO MAZE & WINE

BAKED CULTURE

The home of Bago Maze, one of the world’s largest hedge mazes.

A family friendly winery with plenty of open space for the kids.

Explore our award winning hedge maze, indulge in our coastal wines and local produce platters and relax with friends and family at one of the many picnic spots.

197 Lambs Rd, Herons Creek. 6585 7099 bago.com.au

Hand rolled croissants, artisan sourdough. coffee and more!

Got a craving for a freshly baked Danish or Almond croissant?

“Our bakery in Wauchope offers the highest quality products using traditional mindful methods” 31 High street Wauchope, 5564 1146

Must Viss

BLOOM PMQ

CHOP ‘N CHILL

At the cozy boutique cafe with a river view, you can enjoy modern Australian dining with a Singapore flavour, sip coffee by Gabriel and indulge in treats from the house-made cake cabinet with gluten-free options, while the variety of kids' menu choices ensures everyone finds something they love.

1/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie. 6584 1223 bloompmq.com

Chop ‘n Chill, a story told through food. A mix of two dining concepts, east meets west with our own playful twist!

Cocktails, cold beers, wine ‘n bubbles. Open breakfast, lunch ‘n dinner and anytime in between! Town Green, 17-19 Horton St, Port Macquarie, 6583 9155

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PORT JET CRUISES

BILLABONG ZOO

2024 whale watching season is here with the addition of our brand new, custom built whale watching vessel, Ocean Rider. Port Jet Cruises now has a choice of three boats to head out on with something to suit everyone.

We also offer dolphin spotting river cruises, our signature Ocean Blast Fun Ride and jet ski hire for all the fun you can have on the water!

Short St, Port Macquarie. 0419 620 765 portjet.com.au

At the multiple award-winning Billabong Zoo you can get up-close and personal to Australian and exotic animals. Pat, feed, hold, hear and see over 100 species of mammals, reptiles and birds.

61 Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie, billabongzoo.com.au

PORT CENTRAL

HELLO KOALAS GIFT SHOP

Celebrate EOFY sales at Port Central Shopping Centre! Locals and visitors alike, enjoy unbeatable discounts and exciting activities for all ages. Shop, save, and explore during the school holidays - experience the best deals and fun in town!

40-42 Horton Street, Port Macquarie, portcentralshopping.com.au

Discover the world’s finest display of high-quality koala themed gifts & souvenirs and say hello to 20+ one metre high Hello Koalas sculptures, hand-painted by local artists, part of the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. 2/1A Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie. Open Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm, Sat, 9am-1pm. Ph 0416 641 482 www.hellokoalas.com

WILDNETS ADVENTURE PARKS

PMQ DISTILLERY

WildNets Adventure Park is a fun day out for the entire family! From the adventurous teen, energy-filled youth to the young at heart and one-year-old tots. Discover the forest’s flora and fauna from a completely different perspective. Bookings essential.

Guulabaa Way, Corner of Burrawan Forest Dr and, Oxley Hwy, Lake Innes. wildnets.com.au

Indulge in the refined spirits of Port Macquarie Distillery, crafted with care and local flair. Visit our chic venue for a tasting adventure, featuring our signature gin or cocktail flight and delectable cocktail creations, paired perfectly with artisanal platters in a stylish, relaxed setting.

Open: Fri 4-7pm, Sat 3-8pm, 24/35 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie, www.pmqdistillery.com GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 71

K A T H Y

L Y O N S

Place of e Koa

H

i Kathy, can you give us an overview of what Guulabaa is and share a bit about how the idea for this place came about?

Guulabaa – Place of Koala is a new tourism precinct within Cowarra State Forest on the NSW Mid North Coast. Guulabaa offers a variety of nature-based visitor experiences including Koala conservation and breeding; sustainable forest management; traditional Aboriginal practices including forest management and culture; treetop adventures; public art and education. Forestry’s free-to-use picnic areas and walking tracks will also be part of the Guulabaa experience.

There are a few partners involved in this project, could you tell us about who the different partners are?

The project partners are Forestry Corporation of NSW, Port Macquarie Koala Hospital / Koala Conservation Australia, WildNets, Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council and Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail.

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Kathy Lyons, Senior Manager, Country & Community with Forestry Corporation of NSW, is one of the people leading the charge with the development of Guulabaa - Place of Koala. This new tourism precinct represents a true partnership in forest management, bringing together local organisations committed to showcasing Aboriginal heritage and cultural practices, forest ecology and koala conservation, forest timber products and art and design for the visiting public.

There are also a range of businesses who have Forestry has created infrastructure within contributed to the project through services or Cowarra State Forest; Koala Conservation supplies. Architect Ken McBryde of Gensler Australia are building the world’s first wild Australia, engineers TTW, our fantastic builder koala breeding facility (complementing their F&SJ Maione, and our wonderful hardwood Port Macquarie Koala Hospital facilities in timber sponsors Big River, Coffs Harbour town; WildNets are operating a fun, bouncy, Hardwoods, Weathertex, Pentarch, Hurfords net-based experience in the trees; Bunyah and Machin’s Timber Mill.

LALC are generously We are forever grateful sharing their culture for their beautiful whilst also establishing products. a café and Aboriginal The Guulabaa art gallery on site and of experience Tell us about the course, The Big Koala – different elements of itself is an enriching part of the Hello Koalas this project and how one, and when fully Sculpture Trail – watches they all intertwine? operational will offer over all our visitors!

Guulabaa – Place of experiential learning What have been some Koala in Cowarra State opportunities for all of the key goals with Forest is a world-first, visitors.

Guulabaa? nature-based tourism precinct where people, Early on, our partners koalas, forest, culture developed a Guulabaa and adventure come together, and, where ‘Masterplan’. This plan outlined both short ‘Caring for Country’ underpins everything we term and aspirational goals for the precinct. do.

All our goals fall under the overarching banner of ‘Caring for Country’, in recognition Through NSW Government grant funding,

of the Birpai people who are the traditional custodians of the land on which Guulabaa sits. Guulabaa means ‘place of koala’ in local Gathang, the language of the Birpai people.

Through the Guulabaa visitor experiences we aim to promote understanding of the land, culture, forests and koalas; to invite visitors to connect through experiences from WildNets to walking tracks, koalas and culture; to inspire positive action by encouraging people to better understand and value our forests; to support koala conservation efforts, and to learn about the rich culture of the Birpai people and their country.

How do you hope to see this place benefit the community?

As a new nature-based tourism attraction for the Mid North Coast, we expect to see strong visitation across all segments (local, intra-, interstate; international) once all Guulabaa attractions are open. WildNets is already experiencing high visitor numbers, which is great and the location is outstanding. Where else can you find a forested landscape offering culture and nature-based visitor experiences so close to a main highway?

Local employment is a roll-on benefit. WildNets recently advertised for new staff to help support their busy holiday period. We’re also extremely pleased to have partners Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council on board, whose café and gallery will offer Aboriginal

employment opportunities to the Birpai community.

The Guulabaa experience itself is an enriching one, and when fully operational, will offer experiential learning opportunities for all visitors through partner experiences and onsite interpretation.

Guulabaa recently won the Gensler Community by Design Award, can you share with us a bit about the award and what it means to have received this kind of recognition?

The Gensler Community by Design Award is an international award that recognises projects that showcase the transformative impact of design excellence in a community. Winning this award is quite special! The award recognised the Gensler-designed ‘The Hub,’ which is a series of unique hardwood timber decks designed to draw visitors into the trees and provide a koala’s perspective of the forest.

‘The Hub’ links Koala Conservation Australia’s wild koala breeding facility, Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council café and gallery, Wildnets Adventure and Hello Koalas ‘The Big Koala’, whilst also providing an outdoor amphitheatre and connection to the forest picnic area and walking tracks.

Our architect Ken McBryde said it best. That winning the 2024 Community by Design Award for Guulabaa Hub not only honours

Aboriginal cultural heritage and 60,000 years of innovation but also exemplifies the partner’s commitment to environmental stewardship, and through Gensler’s creative design, to community-based architecture.

The Hub was designed by leading international architect Ken McBryde, what has it been like having such an accomplished architect create the design that links the different elements of Guulabaa together?

Ken is one-of-a-kind. He deep dives into projects with an inquisitive and compassionate nature and is committed to regenerative design. In designing ‘The Hub’ he married the needs of the partners alongside considerations of landscape, forest, culture and visitors.

Ken took the time to learn about forestry, from timber products to fire management, even hosting visits by University of Newcastle architecture students on site.

Ken’s designs aim to change our visitor’s outlook on our natural environment. We were lucky to have him!

Where can we find out more about Guulabaa, Place of the Koala?

The Guulabaa – Place of Koala website and social media share everything from progress updates to special events and competitions. guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au @guulabaaplaceofkoala GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 73

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We asked staff members of Forestry Corporation of NSW to share their favourite NSW State Forests places to visit.

Why? Because who knows better than those who look after the forest and maintain these special places.

Ste Forest

“Once a year, we travel with a few other families and stay at Moonan Cottage in the small town of Moonan Brook at the western base of the Barrington Tops. We take day trips to ‘the Tops’ and our must stop places always include Moonan Outlook, with views for days to the south and west and brilliant sunsets. It’s just magic” - Louise, Manager Tourism & Partnerships

S E C R E T S

“Gumgali Track in Orara East State Forest doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves and the view is delightful! But my absolute favourite spot is Mobong Falls Track in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. It’s a great bushwalk beside Mobong Creek, with a beautiful little waterfall and abundant birdlife. You can also enjoy a picnic (there are a couple of tables) or a cheeky little swim.”

- Renee, Forestry Worker “Coopernook State Forest is one of those places that slowly grows on you with repeated visits.

There is so much history there, and I understand why people refer to it as such a peaceful spot. It really is!”

“My favourite site is around Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest near Coffs Harbour.

It’s not too remote, easy to get to and there’s some great lookouts and walks in unique areas.”

- Owen, Forestry Worker

“Tirrill Creek in Bulga State Forest. Subtropical rainforest can be found in spots along the creek line, as well as scenic rockpools for splashing your feet in. Pretty special.”

“I love a bit of fishing, so Koondrook and Perricoota State Forests adjacent to the Murray River down on the Victorian border are always on my list. Great spots for fishing for native fish (Murray Cod and Yellow belly) as well as boating and kayaking. Bermagui State Forest on the NSW South Coast is also excellent for fishing and camping, while Currowan State Forest near Batemans Bay has good bass fishing and canoeing.”

- Mark, Ecologist

- Rob, Partnerships Leader

- Leah, Partnerships Leader

“Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest between Wauchope and Port Macquarie.

It’s so close to the Pacific Highway but still home to a beautiful native forest. It’s also home to WildNets, The Big Koala (part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail) and the soon-to-be-open Wild Koala Breeding Facility managed by Port Macquarie Koala Hospital/Koala Conservation Australia. With picnic facilities and walking trails in development, and Bunyah Café coming soon too (thanks to Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council), this tourism precinct is a must-stop for any visitors to the Mid North Coast.”

- Kathy, Senior Manager Country & Community

For more information on these and other great State Forest destinations, visit forestrycorporation.com.au/visit or follow

@visitnswforests

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AND

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Well-Being

focus_contributor.

Caffeine and your BLADDER

W H AT E V E R Y W O M A N N E E D S TO K N O W

I

n our fast-paced world, many of us rely on a cup of coffee or tea to kick start our day or keep us going through the afternoon slump. However, as comforting as caffeine can be, it may have an unexpected impact on our bladder health. As a Women’s Health Physiotherapist, I’ve seen the significant effects caffeine can have on bladder function, and it’s important for women to understand how their favourite beverages might be affecting their bodies.

The Connection Between Caffeine and the Bladder Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and many energy drinks and soft drinks. It works by stimulating the central nervous system, which can help improve alertness and concentration. However, caffeine also has a diuretic effect, meaning it increases urine production. This can lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom and, for some women, can exacerbate bladder control issues.

How Does Caffeine Affect the Bladder?

1. Caffeine increases the amount of urine produced by the kidneys. For women with a healthy bladder, this might result in more frequent bathroom visits. However, for those with overactive bladder (OAB) or other bladder conditions, this can lead to increased urgency and frequency.

2. Bladder Irritation. Caffeine can irritate the bladder lining leading to symptoms such as urgency, frequency, and even bladder pain.

Womens

Health with

GRAYCE GERKE

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE

This is because caffeine is a stimulant that can increase bladder activity and contractions.

If you already experience bladder sensitivity, caffeine can make these symptoms worse.

3. Exacerbating Incontinence. Women with stress urinary incontinence may find that caffeine exacerbates their symptoms. It can increase the likelihood of leakage during activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, laughing, or exercising.

4. Impact on Nighttime Frequency. Nocturia, the need to urinate during the night, can be aggravated by caffeine consumption, especially if consumed later in the day. This can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue, which can impact overall health.

Managing Caffeine Intake for Better Bladder Health Given these effects, managing caffeine intake is crucial for maintaining optimal bladder health. Here are some expert tips: 1. Monitor Your Caffeine Consumption. Start by keeping an eye on your caffeine intake and bladder symptoms. This can help you identify if there is a correlation between the two.

Many women find that reducing their caffeine consumption significantly improves their bladder control and symptoms.

2. Gradual Reduction. If you decide to cut back on caffeine, do so gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and irritability. Try reducing your intake by one cup a day until you reach a level

that feels manageable and comfortable.

3. Lower Caffeine Alternatives. Consider switching to beverages with lower caffeine content. Herbal teas, decaffeinated coffee, or caffeine-free soft drinks can be alternatives that still offer the comfort of a warm or refreshing drink without bladder irritation.

4. Stay Hydrated. While it’s important to manage your caffeine intake, ensure you’re still drinking enough fluids. Dehydration can concentrate urine, which can irritate the bladder further. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your bladder healthy and happy. Try having a coffee, and then some water soon after.

5. Listen to Your Body. Pay attention to how your body reacts to different levels of caffeine.

Some women might be able to tolerate a moderate amount, while others may need to avoid it altogether. Finding the right balance for you is key.

Caffeine is a beloved part of many women’s daily routines, but it’s important to be mindful of how it can affect bladder health. I encourage women to evaluate their caffeine intake and make adjustments as needed.

By understanding the connection between caffeine and the bladder, and making informed choices, you can still enjoy your favourite drinks while maintaining optimal bladder health. Don’t worry we’re not saying eliminate it completely, but reducing intake can help manage symptoms.

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Do you have pain and tingling in your arm, hand and fingers?

A

common neck condition that often causes pain and tingling in the arm and hand is called cervical radiculopathy. This condition occurs when the nerves in the neck are compressed, leading to symptoms such as pain, tingling, burning, and weakness that extend from the shoulder down to the fingers.

Patients with cervical radiculopathy often report that they find it challenging to sleep comfortably due to the pain. Many resort to sleeping in a recliner, as it helps keep the neck

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in a neutral position, which can alleviate their arm pain and provide some relief for a few hours of sleep.

What is Cervical Radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is the compression of nerve roots in the neck that supply the arm and hands. This compression is typically caused by factors such as herniated discs, disc degeneration, bone spurs, or muscle tension near the nerve roots. It can also result from post-surgical nerve damage.

Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy The symptoms of cervical radiculopathy include

pain, tingling, burning, aching, numbness, and weakness that can radiate from the neck and shoulder down the arm to the hands and fingers. Certain neck and arm positions, movements, and postures can trigger or aggravate these symptoms. Due to its causes and symptoms, cervical radiculopathy is sometimes referred to as "sciatica of the arm."

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

Ryan Samuels Orthopaedic Acupuncturist

GIVE YOUR GROWING CHILD A HEAD START TO A BEAUTIFUL SMILE INTEREST FREE PAY M E N T S F R O M

$36/WEEK

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

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

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

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

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 79

focus_contributor.

UPDATE with RACHEL LEMAN

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

A

H E Y T H E R E A N D W E LCO M E TO T H E J U LY F I T N E S S U P DAT E !

geing is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t mean we have to slow down. Staying active as we get older is crucial for maintaining our health and well-being. I know it's not always top of the list to do when you retire, but it's never too late to start, and there are so many benefits. If you are a reluctant exerciser, another way to think about the benefits of exercise is to flip the script: If you stay active, you’ll be better able to play with your grandkids and enjoy your golden years with ease and enjoyment. This positive mindset can make exercise feel less like a task and more like a means to a fulfilling, active life.

As we age, our bone density decreases, which can lead to conditions like osteoporosis.

Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, dancing, and resistance training (focused weight lifting) can help to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Activities like yoga and Pilates also improve flexibility and strength, further protecting your bones. By incorporating a simple routine of walking three times a week, combined with a weekly yoga session, can significantly enhance bone health and overall flexibility.

Muscle mass also naturally decreases with age, leading to weakness and increased risk of falls. Engaging in regular strength training exercises can help maintain and build muscle mass. Simple exercises like lifting weights, 80 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

using resistance bands, or even body-weight exercises like squats and push-ups can make a big difference. Imagine dedicating just 20 minutes a day to body-weight exercises; it can help you maintain your independence and perform daily activities with ease.

Falls are a major concern for older adults so exercises that improve balance and coordination are essential. Tai chi, yoga, and balance exercises such as standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe can enhance stability and prevent accidents.

Physical activity isn’t just good for the body; it’s great for the mind too. Regular exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. Activities that require coordination and mental engagement, such as dancing or playing sports, are particularly beneficial. For instance, joining a dance class not only provides physical activity but also keeps your brain sharp as you learn and remember new steps.

Staying active often involves social interaction, whether it’s joining a fitness class, going for a walk with friends, or participating in group sports. These social connections can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, providing a sense of community and support.

Miss Motivator offers a variety of classes tailored to different fitness levels and interests.

From low-impact aerobics to dance classes, there’s something for everyone and our expert trainers ensure they are safe, effective, and

keep you motivated and engaged.

Activities like dancing, gardening, or even playing with your grandchildren can provide a great workout. The key is to find activities that you love and incorporate them into your routine. Staying active as we age is not just about adding years to our life, but adding life to our years.

Here are some tips: Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.

Create a Routine: Schedule your exercise at the same time each day to build a habit.

Stay Motivated: Find a workout buddy or join a group to keep you accountable and make exercise more enjoyable.

Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

Always check with your doctor before undertaking any new exercise program.

At Miss Motivator, we’re dedicated to helping older adults stay fit, healthy, and happy through fun and engaging fitness programs.

By incorporating regular exercise into your routine, you can enjoy a more vibrant, independent, and fulfilling life.

- Rachel.

Calm Find Your

with BERNIE GINNANE

Counsellor / Meditation Facilitator / Spiritual Life Coach

Two friendly reminders from Bernie.

‘MAKE A CHOICE THIS MONTH to MAKE EACH BREATH COUNT.’ ‘STRIVE TO GET THE MOST OUT OF EACH STAGE OF YOUR LIFE.’

M

W E L C O M E

indfulness and meditation can help with this by following simple short practices that can support you to better manage stress and heavy emotions such as overwhelm, anxiety, discomfort and pain.

So that you can feel calmer, more grounded and in the present moment. So that you are better able to notice your thoughts without engaging with them as much.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO MEDITATE AND/OR PRACTICE MINDFULNESS? A short practice every day is best, and a few times every day is even better!

The best time is before you start to feel heavy emotions but once you do, then that is the best time to pause and meditate to help calm your emotions, slow your breathing down and stay in the present moment.

HOW IS THE BEST WAY TO MEDITATE AND PRACTICE MINDFULNESS? There is no perfect way. There is no best position. There is no best method. It’s about finding a way that works for you, and if it works for you, then you are more likely to maintain it on a regular basis. We Breathe, and So We Can All Meditate.

A little about what I did in June.

I am always upskilling and recently completed an Intensive 2-Day Mindfulness Training for

T O

T H E

M O N T H

O F

Anxiety, Depression, Pain, PTSD, and StressRelated Symptoms. I am bringing this forward with me into my services in July and beyond, including in my FREE Monthly Meditation & Mindfulness Online Sessions via Zoom.

These are on the 1st Tuesday of every month 7pm – 8.45pm in the comfort of your own home. Your video can be off if you like, so you can just listen to my voice. The Zoom link is shorturl.at/ s31S0

J U L Y well as one-on-one sessions on Tuesdays and Saturdays at The Wellbeing Centre, 7 Garden Crescent, Port Macquarie.

For Counselling, Intuitive Guidance, Numerology Readings, Sound and Reiki Healing.

A SIMPLE DAILY PRACTICE X 3 TIMES A DAY

Sound Healing is a powerful therapy that combines different healing sounds to help alleviate symptoms such as feelings of overwhelm and anxiety, and can assist in reducing stress, lowering blood pressure and improve sleep quality. I also offer an Online Intuitive Healing Package,

Pause.

Connect to your breath.

Pay attention to your breath.

Count One on the In-Breath.

Count One on the Out-Breath.

Repeat 5 times.

Increase to Repeating 10 times.

You can also subscribe to my YouTube Channel which is free, to have access to over 150 of my Meditations and Short Chats www.youtube.com/@bernie888100

consisting of 4 Tiers.

HOW TO CONTACT ME

ALSO, I have planned for July two Group Mindfulness & Meditation Workshops The Rotary Hall, 198 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie, Saturday 13th July 1.30pm – 4.30pm & Sunday 28th July 2pm – 5pm

Website: bernie-ginnane.mykajabi.com

Email me for more details or to book your space.

Email: bernie224@gmail.com

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME

facebook.com/bernieginnane

I offer online sessions via Zoom most days as

instagram.com/bernie_ginnane

Bookings can be arranged through my booking site calendly.com/bernieginnane Connect with me on WhatsApp 0491 015 566

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Your

Dental C H E C K- U P HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT... (in Plain English)!

W

hy Check-ups Matter:

Regular dental check-ups are your ticket to a healthy smile. Even without pain, tooth decay and gum disease can fly under the radar for months or even years and that’s where your check-up comes in. It is important to catch any problems before they escalate and prevent the need for additional work.

The Lowdown on Your First Check-up: During your first check-up, your dentist will take a good look around your mouth to see how everything’s doing. They may even take some pictures with an intra oral camera to show you what’s going on with your teeth.

These pictures can reveal things like cavities, tartar, the condition of your existing fillings, and if your teeth are wearing down.

X-Rays Demystified: Your dentist might recommend X-rays.

These help the dentist spot any cavities or infections hiding in your teeth. They’re like 82 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

super-powered detectives, uncovering hidden cavities and lurking infections. Today’s x rays

What If You Do Need Some Work:

Got a broken tooth? There are many options to fix it. Depending on the situation, you might just need a small filling, or for more modern dental X-rays give about as much as advance decay a crown you’d get from a few may be needed to hours in the sun. restore your smile. In The Clean and Beyond: some cases, the decay Even without Once your dentist gives has reached the root pain, tooth the green light, it’s time of the tooth and a root decay and gum canal might be needed for a dental clean. Ever disease can fly under to treat the nerve heard of tartar? It’s like the radar for months and save the tooth. a tough, mineralized or even years.

But all of this will be layer of bacteria that discussed, x rayed, and regular brushing can’t treatment planned at budge. That’s where the your check-up. ultrasonic scaler comes in - it vibrates away Dental check-ups are important, and the best the tartar, leaving your teeth feeling clean, way to stay on top of your dental health, really clean. It’s like picking up your car after (even if you’re not experiencing pain). At a car detail. Then fluoride is applied to help Sundial Dental your smile is our passion so call with sensitivity and re-mineralize your teeth. If our team and book your families check-ups to your teeth aren’t cleaned regularly, tartar can get on top of your dental health in 2024 and start to wear away at your gums and bones; with school holidays around the corner what so make having a dental clean 1-2 times a are you witing for? Call our caring team on year a top priority.

6583 3533 or 6585 2015. are digital and don’t worry about radiation,

R E - W R I T I N G

T H E

eauty of With DR KRISTY KOSTAL AS

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP B.Med.Sci. MBBS (Hons) FRACGP. MMed. (repro) DCH M.Med (for) MED0001195854 Specialist Registration in General Practice

A

s the colder months approach, many of our readers are concerned about how to keep their skin healthy. Can you share some essential winter skincare tips with us? Absolutely! Winter can be particularly harsh on the skin due to the drop in humidity, cold winds, and indoor heating. These factors can lead to dryness, irritation, and a dull complexion.

What specific ingredients should people look for in their winter skincare products?

During winter, it’s beneficial to look for ingredients that are known for their hydrating and barrier-protecting properties. Here are a few key ingredients:

Let’s start with the basics. What should be the foundation of a good winter skincare routine? The foundation of a good winter skincare routine should include gentle cleansing, effective moisturising, and sun protection. It’s crucial to adjust your routine to address the specific challenges that winter weather brings.

- Using a hydration booster serum can be very beneficial. Mix it into your moisturisers or use it at night to give your skin an extra boost of moisture. It’s also wise to avoid overuse of physical exfoliants like scrubs.

First, switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser.

In winter, I recommend a creamy or oil-based cleanser that will clean the skin without causing dryness.

Next, moisturizing is key. Choose a richer moisturiser than you might use in the summer.

For those with extremely dry skin, layering products such as a hydrating serum under your moisturizer can provide extra hydration. Also, add a body moisturiser to your routine to keep your entire body hydrated.

What about sun protection? Many people think they can skip sunscreen in the winter.

That’s a common misconception. Even though the sun feels less intense, UV rays are still present and can cause damage to your skin. We live in an area with temperate weather, and there are still some beautiful winter days, so wearing a hat is still important. It’s crucial to continue using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50 every day.

- Hyaluronic Acid (B5): This is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin. It’s great for keeping the skin hydrated and should be worn in the morning underneath your usual skincare products.

How about diet and lifestyle? Do they play a role in winter skincare? Absolutely. Your skin reflects your overall health, so it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is crucial, as it’s easy to forget to drink enough fluids in the winter. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseeds, which can help to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Regular exercise is also important as it boosts circulation, which can help to keep your skin looking healthy. Additionally, avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate your skin.

What about exfoliation? Should people still be exfoliating in the winter? Exfoliation is important year-round, but it should be done carefully in the winter. Over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation.

I recommend using a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as an AHA/BHA serum, once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote

cell turnover. Always follow up with a good moisturiser to replenish the skin.

Finally, are there any treatments or products you recommend for someone looking to give their winter skincare routine a boost?

Absolutely. In addition to a good at-home skincare routine, professional treatments can be very beneficial. Chemical peels can be effective for removing dead skin cells and promoting a brighter complexion, but they should be performed in a medical clinic to avoid irritation.

For those interested in more advanced treatments, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) can help brighten the skin, and medical microneedling can improve hydration. Winter is also a good time to engage in energy-based devices such as nano fractional, IPL, and laser treatments, as reduced sun exposure decreases the risk of posttreatment complications.

Thank you, Dr. Kristy, for these valuable winter skincare tips. I’m sure our readers will find them very helpful.

You’re welcome! It’s been a pleasure sharing these tips. Remember, the key to healthy skin in winter is to stay hydrated, protect your skin barrier, and adapt your routine to the changing weather.

Contact the clinic; 5/12 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie 0421 253 025 Reception@portmedicalaesthetics.com.au

DEALING WITH

DIFFICULT

TIMES OV E R T H E PA S T FE W M O N T H S, O U R CO M M U N I T Y H A S B E E N FAC E D W I T H O N E C R I S I S A F T E R A N OT H E R .

A

nd just when we thought, we had experienced enough, with a global pandemic, economic uncertainty, political and social turmoil, as well as an array of natural disasters in our region, there have also been personal traumas that people are also dealing with, such as the loss of a loved one, declining health, unemployment, divorce, violent crime, or tragic accidents.

For many of us, this is a time of unprecedented struggle and upheaval which can lead to stress.

What is stress?

When faced with a challenging situation or stressful event, our bodies respond by activating the nervous system and releasing hormones including cortisol and adrenalin.

These hormones bring about certain physical changes in the body, helping us to react appropriately and deal with the challenge presented. However, if the stress is ongoing and the physical changes do not subside, we may feel overwhelmed and unable to cope.

84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

LIFE PRESSURES THAT CAN CAUSE US TO FEEL OVERWHELMED AND STRESSED INCLUDE:

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF STRESS?

• Relationship difficulties

BELOW ARE SOME OF THE SIGNS WHICH INDICATE OUR STRESS LEVELS ARE UNHEALTHY:

• Family breakdown

• Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope

• Illness or injury

• Feeling hyperalert and anxious

• Work pressures or job loss

• Difficulty sleeping • Changes in appetite

• Bullying and harassment

• Headaches and muscle tension

• Traumatic events

• Upset stomach • Irritability

• Death of a loved one - including pets

• Difficulty concentrating

• Financial difficulties

• Changes in mood

• Homelessness

• Fatigue and exhaustion

• Lack of support and isolation

• Withdrawing from friends and family • Thoughts of suicide

PEOPLE RESPOND D I F F E R E N T LY TO S T R E S S F U L S I T UA T I O N S

• Reliance on alcohol or other substances to cope

Responses to stress will be determined by the situation faced, past experiences, personality, social support, access to resources and cultural background. What one person finds stressful, another may be more easily able to cope with.

Knowing yourself and how you respond to different situations is important as you can then learn to manage stress and seek help when necessary.

W H AT TO D O W H E N F E E L I N G OV E R W H E L M E D? BELOW ARE SOME PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING STRESS WHEN FEELING OVERWHELMED BY LIFE’S PRESSURES • Identify the cause of your stress — write down what is contributing to you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. You may identify one particular issue or have a range of things contributing to how you feel at this time.

Prioritise the issues and leave smaller issues to be dealt with at a later time.

• Review your current coping mechanisms — identify how you have been coping to date.

What tools and strategies have you found helpful? What things are you doing that are not helpful? Make any necessary changes to increase your ability to cope.

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member — talking through your issues with someone you trust can assist you to work through the issue and identify possible solutions.

• Check your thinking — often we put pressure on ourselves to be a certain way. Our thoughts directly impact our emotional state and can influence our behaviour. When our thoughts are negative and self-critical we may begin to feel overwhelmed. Instead of doing the things we need to do in order to deal with the stressful situation, we may in fact do things that are unhelpful.

Give yourself some positive feedback for

the things you have been doing to manage.

Consider if the expectations you place on yourself are reasonable and adjust them accordingly. Demonstrate compassion to yourself as you would to others in a similar situation.

• Make a positive plan — work out ways to deal with the situation or how to approach it step by step. Write down the actions that need to be taken to bring about some change.

Start at the beginning and focus on one thing at a time. Recognise when you need help to bring about change.

• Take care of yourself — we need to be healthy in order to meet life’s challenges.

Eating well, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep are the basic building blocks of resilience. Take time out to engage in activities you enjoy and find rewarding. Engage in positive relationships with friends and family.

• Access local support services — there may be certain situations when you need to gain support from services in the community. For example, you may need to access counselling services when experiencing family and relationship difficulties or accommodation services if experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.

WHERE TO GO FOR SUPPORT? If you are in need of support, you may consider talking to your GP or health professional about your current situation.

Your GP can check your general health and assess any physical signs of stress. They can refer you to local health professionals based on your needs or visit the Lifeline Service Finder Directory at https://www.lifeline.org. au/get-help/ service-finder to search for local services and centres in your area.

Below are some of the places to go for information and support: • Phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 (available 24/7) or chat to a Crisis Supporter online at lifeline.org.au (7pm – midnight every night) • Mensline Australia: 1300 78 99 78 (24hrs) • Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 It is important to be able to identify when stress is affecting us in a negative way.

Identifying the cause of our stress and making changes where possible is a good starting point.

Lifeline has also developed a range of fact sheets to provide you with information and assistance during challenging times. To access, please visit lifelinenorthcoast.org.au/self-help/ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 85

lifestyle

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K I M S U I TO R - L A K E C AT H I E M A N O R

Seniors LIVING &

WELCOME TO LAKE CATHIE MANOR AGED CARE Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care is a beautiful new purpose-built residential aged care home in the tranquil surroundings of Lake Cathie.

Why Choose Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care?

•

Personalised Care Programs

•

A Welcoming Environment

•

Expert Team

•

Continuous GP Support

•

Chef Prepared Meals

•

Allied Health Services

•

Respite Care

•

Palliative Care

Our residents are able to enjoy our architect-designed facilities, landscaped gardens, cinema and on-site coffee shop, secure in the knowledge that they have the care and support of our friendly, experienced team.

We provide 24-hour personalised care to residents in an ageing in place environment.

Permanent, respite and palliative care services are available.

OUR BEAUTIFUL NEW FACILITY AT LAKE CATHIE IS NOW OPEN. Please contact us if you would like to register your interest or find out more information.

Admission enquiries: Kim Suitor 0493 026 759 admissions@lcmanor.com.au 2 Saltwater Place, Lake Cathie NSW, 2445 P 02 5542 2600 F 02 5542 2601 M 0493 026 759 | www.lcmanor.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 87

BEATTIES Quy Furnure Beatties Quality Furniture is a family owned and run business who have been selling great furniture for over 40 years.

At Beatties we believe that everyone should have access to good-looking, high-quality furniture, even when a little more functionality is required.

Our range of lift chairs and adjustable beds support your independence and come with long 10-year warranties. Beatties liaises with most MyAgedCare providers and our sales staff are

trained to help find the right fit and function for your individual needs and taste.

Beatties own trained team deliver and install your furniture for free in your home from Woolgoolga in the north to Port Macquarie in the south and everywhere in between.

If any faults or warranty issues arise, our own service staff can help resolve and fix any issues.

We’d love to show you our furniture and help you to continue living in comfort at home with Beatties.

Living in Comfort at Home with Beatties

Lift Chairs and Adjustable Beds available for immediate delivery Adjustable Beds with choices in Mattresses We’re registered with most MyAgedCare providers 10 year warranty on frames and foams

Free delivery and installation

Furniture Beatties Quality 2 Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484

www.beattiesfurniture.com.au Monday to Friday 9am-5pm

88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Saturday closed

Sunday 9am-12pm

Glenfern

Winter Warmer vent

A

t first glance, Glenfern is a beautiful community with exceptional amenities and modern affordable homes, however at its foundation, Glenfern is home to a thriving community spirit where residents of a similar age range are able to meet and form long lasting friendships, like residents, Ros and June.

Ros and June quickly became great friends after moving into the community and have formed a wonderful relationship. Both Ros and June are members of the communities social committee, joining forces with other residents to organise regular get-togethers, activities and special events!

If you’re looking to make the move to a community that offers a social and physically active lifestyle, Glenfern has just released a new range of stunning and affordable homes.

Don’t miss the chance to discover your dream home at Glenfern!

Exceptional new designs are available now including the

popular Blue Gum home. Discover the charm of Blue Gum with its open and bright design, spacious kitchen with island bench and quality appliances overlooking the living and dining room which effortlessly opens onto the outdoor deck – perfect for entertaining. Retreat to the master bedroom complete with walk-in robe and ensuite and enjoy flexible living with a second bedroom and multi-purpose room making hosting family and friends easy!

Join us from 4pm around the fireplace in the state-of-the-art clubhouse at the Glenfern Winter Warmer Event on Thursday 25, July 2024. Discover the range of affordable new homes available, meet the residents and experience the growing friendships in this welcoming tight-knit community.

Register your interest by contacting Sue Shepherdson, Sales Manager (02) 7225 2900 or glenfernsales@ hometownaustralia.com.au and be sure to say hi to Ros and June!

Find your dream home at Glenfern Located just 10 minutes from Port Macquarie, Glenfern is designed to elevate your over 50s living experience.

Discover homes that offer generous spaces and a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living.

With so many fabulous on-site amenities to enjoy, you’re spoilt for choice. Enjoy a premium lifestyle without the hefty price tag. Brand new move in ready homes from $580,000*.

Call (02) 7255 2900 to book a tour 19 Glenfern Ave, Thrumster NSW 2444 hometownaustralia.com.au *Price correct at time of print

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90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

CHAPLAINCY AND Spiru are AT B E TH A N Y AG E D C A R E C E NTR E

“For me, holistic care is getting to know our residents as they come in, and as a part of our team, taking into consideration the whole person when it comes to their care,” says Major Sue McGuigan, the Chaplain at Bethany Aged Care Centre (Bethany), run by The Salvation Army Aged Care.

I

n her role as Chaplain, Major Sue serves the holistic needs of Bethany’s residents.

She enjoys getting to know their stories and backgrounds, and always makes herself available to residents, letting them know she is there if they need a helping hand or someone to chat to.

“Spirituality is not necessarily about religion,” she says. “Spirituality can be about giving someone meaning, purpose and connectedness. Religion can be a part of that for some people, and for some people, it’s not.

I’m here for all the residents, to support them, and discover how we can help them have a life that’s as meaningful as possible in their changing circumstances.”

As well as getting to know the residents, Major Sue connects with families and friends and engages with them about support needs, especially if the resident is not able to do so themselves. In her day-to-day, Major Sue has one-on-one visits with residents, where she discovers what they need and how they are feeling. Over the years, a wide array of tasks follow - from facilitating décor changes in residents’ rooms and sourcing colour swatches for the furniture in the common areas so residents can choose what they would like, to finding a bagpiper and a flamenco guitarist to perform for specific residents. The Lifestyle team have recently brought in two budgies and Major Sue is now holding a bird naming

competition, with a “naming party” to follow.

Currently, she is trying to source mural artists to do some outdoor wall panels of native animals and birds in one of Bethany’s gardens.

This has been requested by a resident and the idea embraced by the Centre.

“I see a part of my role as really getting beside them and getting to know them, to find out what is meaningful to them and brings them purpose and how we can find that again for them,” says Major Sue. Bethany Aged Care Centre is offering up to 2 weeks of free respite care during July. To learn more, you can contact the Centre on 1300 111 227 or at agedcare.enquiries@ salvationarmy.org.au.

trust

40 years of and service in Port Macquarie At Bethany Aged Care Centre, our commitment to care ensures you thrive in a community built for your comfort and wellbeing. Bethany offers a range of affordable room options, expert clinical care, gourmet meals, resident-directed lifestyle activities and spiritual support.

Carers, family and friends are always welcome in our family.

To start your journey, call 1300 111 227 or visit agedcare.salvos.org.au to learn more.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 91

We need your help.

Call our team today!

0428 917 219

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V I L L A G E

Is this the future of dementia care?

E

mmaus Village Port Macquarie is now open, redefining dementia care in NSW with its first residents settling into their new homes.

Inspired by the acclaimed De Hogeweyk® model in the Netherlands, Emmaus Village is more than a residential aged care facility; it is a vibrant and thriving community where people with dementia can live with dignity, freedom, and independence in a safe and secure environment.

OPEN DAY - 10am 16 streets Marchapproach, ensuring residents won’t have to A shortSaturday stroll through the signposted

What makes Emmaus Village unique?

Emmaus Village has been specifically designed to support people living with dementia with maintaining a sense of normalcy and independence in everyday life.

The village features twelve beautifully appointed homes, each accommodating up to eight residents, nestled within landscaped gardens.

leads to state-of-the-art amenities including a cinema, hair salon, gardening shed, café, workshop, bocce court, and more.

Residents are encouraged to engage in everyday activities that bring joy—whether it’s gardening, tinkering in the workshop, feeding the chooks, or simply heading to the onsite corner store for some milk. The secure community and dedicated staff foster an environment where residents can thrive.

What happens as care needs grow?

Emmaus Village embraces an ‘age in place’

move facilities as their care needs change or grow.

Our dedicated team, including an in-house Dementia Support Consultant, provides exceptional care every step of the way, so residents and their families feel supported by people they know in a familiar environment.

Stay connected Missed the Open Day? Stay updated on Emmaus Village via our Facebook page. Interested in applying? Visit EmmausVillage.org.au or contact our friendly team on (02) 8201 1000.

Your life in your hands.

World-leading dementia World-leading dementia community community. opening soon.

A unique care model where Home Companions deliver respectful, hearts-in, hands-on support, every day – ensuring residents enjoy independence and a

meaningful Come and see what makes Emmaus Village so innovative at this family-friendly day. life.

Tours, Dementia Australia information sessions, stallholders, and activities for all ages.

To learn more about this hands-on approach, To learn more about Emmaus Village and the Open Day, visit ournew website. enquire now.

(02) 8201 1000 | EmmausVillage.org.au (02) 8201 1000 | EmmausVillage.org.au

Port Macquarie J007102F

Port Macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 93

Seniors LIVING & lifestyle

Proudly Australian owned and operated, Harwel Lifts and Hoists, based in Gloucester NSW, have been in operation for over 25 years. Director Sam Sproule speaks with Focus about the brand’s current news.

Harwel LIFTS AND HOISTS

Proudly Australian owned and operated, Harwel Lifts and Hoists, based in Gloucester NSW, have been in operation for over 25 years. Director Sam Sproule speaks with Focus about the brand’s current news.

H

We work with the customer or their architect or builder to meet their needs based on their budget, chosen finishes and timeframe. We also offer an imported European designed and manufactured machine room-less lift through our Service and Modernisation Division - Lift Maintenance Services (LMS).

Obviously for ageing or disabled Australians, installing a lift or hoist within a home environment can mean people can remain in their homes for longer. Why is a lift or hoist installed into a home a strategic measure? The needs of people choosing our home lifts are wide ranging. In our ageing population more people are opting to stay in their homes for longer. Our lifts enable them to do that by providing access to all levels of their home, and it also takes away the additional burden of them carrying heavy shopping bags up their stairs. We also find many people want to “future-proof” their two or 3-storey home and get a lift installed well before they will physically need one. For our clients who have a family member confined to a wheelchair having a Harwel lift installed in their home has made a world of difference to their quality of life.

Under our LMS banner we upgrade all kinds of lifts, not just our own. We can also remove old third party lifts and replace with our own Australian-made Harwel lift or the European machine room-less lift option. We can also offer regular servicing to keep your lift in optimum operating condition.

Having been in business now for more than 25+ years and manufacturing products locally in Gloucester, where people can have a site visit of the factory, what have been some of your highlights to date? The biggest highlight is definitely seeing the happiness and excitement on

i Sam, please tell us a little about your products and services? Harwel Lifts & Hoists design, manufacture and install several makes and models of lifts to cater for various sized shafts, heights and requirements, in our factory in Gloucester. We can design a Limited Mobility Lift for the smallest of spaces in an existing home or new build, right through to larger commercial passenger lifts and goods hoists, including car hoists.

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people’s faces when their lift is handed over to them, particularly those who weren’t able to access all areas of their home before the lift was installed.

Another highlight is being able to offer school-leavers, or those seeking a career change, an apprenticeship where they receive both TAFE and on-the-job training for 4 years.

I started in the lift industry myself as a 16 year old apprentice and have worked with lifts for nearly 50 years. I had excellent teachers and mentors as an apprentice. It’s very rewarding supporting our apprentices through their training, whether it be electrical, fitter, metal fabricator or boiler maker watching them learn and grow, then seeing them further develop in their career with us and train the next generation of apprentices.

For people interested in engaging your services or discussing some options with the friendly and experienced team, how can they best get in touch? They can email us at sales@harwel.com.au or phone us on 1300 134 102. They can also view our website at www.harwellifts.com.au.

Thanks Sam.

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O L L I E B R O O K C L O U D C O N C E P T S

focus on

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focus_contributor.

LEGAL

Light

with

TIM COUCH B.COM, LLB, LLM (FAMILY LAW) FROM PRIEST LEGAL

C

WON’T SOMEBODY PLEASE THINK OF THE CHILDREN...?

hildren, and most things associated with children, are about being happy, feeling loved, feeling safe and protected by their parents or caregivers, creating positive live-long memories and new experiences, and sometimes, dare I say it, testing the boundaries.

That’s how it should be for all children.

However, as we know, children have very little control over their lives and are therefore extremely vulnerable and impressionable little individuals. Children mostly rely on those closest to them for love, guidance and protection.

When parents or caregivers fail to meet these obligations to their children as a result of their own poor behaviours, actions and choices, the likely result is that children are exposed to child abuse, domestic and family violence, unacceptable risk, or a combination of them.

Statistics released by the ABS in November 2023 in relation to childhood abuse estimated that 22% of adults have experienced childhood abuse and/or witnessed parental violence before the age of 15. Staggeringly, approximately 43% of those people would go on to experience violence and abuse by a partner in their adult life.

Experiencing childhood abuse can have both short and long-term effects. Some examples are mental health issues like poor self-esteem, diseases such as obesity and addiction, poor educational outcomes, behavioural issues

including entering into abusive relationships in adulthood.

The Family Law Act 1975 (FLA), the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA), family lawyers and the supporting agencies aim to produce outcomes that are in the best interests of children in what are often very challenging and complex circumstances. In early May 2024 various amendments to the FLA were enacted with the aim of trying to create a simpler and less complex system for parenting cases, which will hopefully assist families to achieve better outcomes for children as they progress through the family law system.

The key amendments include: • Simplifying the objects of Part VII (Children) of the FLA as follows: i. to ensure that the best interests of children are met, including by ensuring their safety; and ii. to give effect to the Convention on the Rights of the Child done at New York on 20 November 1989.

• Repealing the presumption of ‘equal shared parental responsibility’, and the associated legislative pathway that required mandatory consideration of equal time and substantial and significant time arrangements.

• A more refined version of the Section 60CC ‘best interests’ factors which removes the former hierarchy of considerations and focuses

on child-centric decisions.

• A standalone provision requiring certain factors to be taken into account when determining the best interests of a child who is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander child.

• Providing the Court with greater powers to protect parties and children from the harmful effects of protracted and adversarial litigation.

• Providing greater clarification of when an existing final parenting order can be reconsidered by the FCFCOA. The fact is that violence against children can be prevented. According to The World Health Organisation, preventing and responding to violence against children requires that efforts systematically address risk and protective factors at all four interrelated levels of risk (individual, relationship, community and society).

As individual adults, we can positively contribute to protecting children from abuse and family violence by addressing the risk factors that are within our personal control, such as individual and close-relationship factors.

By doing so, we can reduce both the immediate and long-term negative effects on our children; our children that depend on us and deserve a positive start to life.

If you or anyone you know needs assistance with Family Law related issues, please contact the experienced family law lawyers at Priest Legal – (02) 6583 1777 or info@priestlegal.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 97

The first time I announced my candidacy for Council back in 2010, I campaigned on accountability, transparency and to challenge the council organisation to do better. This was during the administration period and campaigning for two years, whilst relentless, it was an opportunity to engage on the community’s behalf, on issues of the day whilst we did not have representatives.

W

ith your support, I was elected in 2012 and served the full four-year term, with one of those years as your Deputy Mayor.

It’s fair to say that in that first term, I learnt a lot, grew as a person and really did my best to ensure our community was informed on all major issues.

I can’t tell you how hard I worked to sometimes just get the facts and truth into the public domain, which shouldn’t have been the

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case, but that was my reality.

That first four year term took a toll on my young family as I had two children under 5 years of age. I made the decision to not recontest the 2016 elections, to spend time with my wife and young kids who needed me more at the time.

It was soon evident that Peta needed support in the Chamber and after pulling together a team to support her in the 2021 elections, it was our community that really stepped up and gave Peta and her team the opportunity to lead this great community and council into the future.

The decision to take a back-step for a term was made significantly easier because Peta Pinson stepped up to the plate on behalf of our community and fought hard to shine a light on major issues, becoming our mayor in 2017.

With the mayor’s recent retirement announcement and having been her Deputy Mayor and Delegate to many major events and functions this term, I have made the decision to follow on in her footsteps and to continue the direction, delivery and leadership approach.

AUTHORISED BY ADAM ROBERTS, THRUMSTER NSW 2444

I will recontest the 2024 Local Government elections and ask for your support once again, in my request to take on the mayoral role.

Some in the community will know me as a Pitmaster, which has been my professional role for more than a decade whilst also serving our community. This role has been a huge opportunity to explore the world, experience so many different cultures, whilst teaching people a skill for life, cooking over fire.

As an accomplished fire chef and cookbook author, tutor and hospitality industry consultant, the role is really one of service. Serving food, serving people, assisting people learn a skill for life and in some cases, engaging with people who are doing it tough through food and collaboration.

My approach to the mayoral role would be one of service to our community, to always have your back, even when you’re not aware of the need to stand up on your behalf behind the scenes.

I have a desire to continue the excellent work that our mayor and her team have lead, in conjunction with our capable council CEO over the last three years of this current term.

My approach to the mayoral role would be one of service to our community, to always have your back, even when you’re not aware of the need to stand up on your behalf behind the scenes.

But there is still a significant amount of work still to do and priorities needing to be reworked.

Sporting infrastructure upgrades and renewals is a high priority need for our area, with massive growth within multiple sports. Buying Tuffins Lane on behalf of our community will go down as one of my most proud council moments to be a part of, but there is so much more work we need to do to bring our sporting facilities up to scratch to support our kids and also our economy more broadly.

The continuation of the Roads, Rates & Rubbish approach is fundamental to our success as a region, a council and as a community. We can no longer support idealistic, cost-shifted (even onto ourselves) projects or services when we have such a big backlog of hard infrastructure

requirements to keep up with the growth of our area.

maintenance as we have been rolling out this current term.

I’m asking you to support me in electing the incredible team of community minded, long term local identities and thoroughly committed candidates I will bring together to support us as a community for the next four years.

I can announce that Danielle Maltman and Josh Slade will join me in leading our new look team, with a formal announcement of our complete team to follow shortly.

My team will ensure we continue our current program of moving back to the Roads, Rates & Rubbish approach, continuing to deliver road upgrades, water and sewer infrastructure, footpaths and of course rolling out more parks and gardens

As a community, I believe we got it very right last election by supporting Mayor Pinson with a committed, focussed and community champion team in support. I believe we can do this again and embed the good work that we have started over the last three years by supporting me into the mayor role and supporting my team this September.

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focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with

A

ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

s we start a new financial year and have past the winter solstice, we look forward to the days becoming longer and to start planning for the summer trade period. This is the perfect time of year to ensure that you have everything in place and organised for our busiest period of the year and making sure that your business looks good and stands out in a crowd. For example in tourist areas such as Greece the mid-winter period is the time they whitewash buildings, replant gardens and they present a place that people want to visit and spend money.

Have you recently had a good look at your business? What does the physical and online image of your business say to your customers?

Are you reaching and being seen by your target market? If you have answered no to any of these questions now is the time to “spruce up” your business so you can market with impact.

What is your future ‘you’, or your future business? Act and transact now how you would expect your future ‘you’ to be and how you would like your future business to be. Don’t get bogged down in what is happening around us now. Someone will win the business so it might as well be you. For this to happen, look at how we, and our staff are attending our business. Do we wake up excited or stressed? This is important as this becomes our brand. Our clients and customers have enough going on in their lives, they want 100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

to do business with excited positive people who brighten their day and they are more likely to return and recommend you to others.

Focus on the best things that happen, not the negatives.

Separate marketing your brand and marketing your product. Marketing your product is pushing your message onto the public. This is advertising. Marketing your brand is pulling your audience into your brand. Involving them and making them feel they belong or want to belong like with socials that bring others in. This is PR or marketing. Advertising is sending a singular message out to an audience. Marketing (PR) is telling a story and bringing people in. Create a connection, trust. In the current business market, research shows that customers/clients want to do business with businesses and people they feel that they know. This is where videos, reels etc can help create a great first impression as does the way you greet and interact with people as they come into your business. How do you make them feel? Do you greet them with a smile and hello, or mild interest or no acknowledgement at all? Remember first impressions are lasting so make it a good one.

Friday 14th June we hosted a boardroom lunch proudly sponsored by Sovereign Hills with Lorraine Hatton OAM as our guest speaker.

Lorraine spoke on Leadership & Resilience and told us her incredible story as a woman in the Armed Forces and the changes that she has seen the ADF go through over the years, especially for women. Since leaving the

Army, after 21 years service and numerous overseas deployments, Lorraine has taken on numerous positions such as Elder to the ADF, Army Indigenous Capability Advisory Board, University of Southern Queensland Council/ Board, Inaugural Patron for Indigenous Youth Mobility Pathways Project (IYMP) 2019-2022, just to mention a few that led Lorraine to being nominated as Queenslander of the Year.

As Lorraine puts it “not bad for someone who is the youngest of 11 children and only obtained a Year 10 education”. Lorraine also joined me in visiting Hastings Secondary College where she spoke with students about believing in yourself and your goals.

We have found that we have many members and other business people that would love to be able to network with others but are unable to make our network events or aren’t comfortable with larger crowds so we are hosting our coffee catch ups at 10.00am on the first Wednesday of each month at Macquarie Waters Corner Cafe. This is a great opportunity to see what we are about.

For catering purposes please register on our website.

July 23rd we look forward to bringing you Healthy Wealthy & Wise sponsored by MBC Nursing Agency with 3 great guest speakers.

For more information and to register go to www.BusinessPortMacquarie.com.au.

We are here for business, so for any assistance please call Malcolm 0422 562 300 or Alex 0414 772 771.

Alex

Farnsworth Financial Celebrates 2 Years in Business “Now every morning we wake up pinching ourselves when we look outside” “Bec goes above and beyond to ensure her customers get the exceptional service Farnsworth Financial stands by”

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Illuminate with KATE WOOD-FOYE THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, I N N O V AT O R S , L E A D E R S AND GAME CHANGERS.

Ollie, you have always blazed your own trail in business and in life – all the way from Ireland to your now coastal home of Port Macquarie.

Since your arrival in 2005, you have gifted your passion for music and technology creating an innovative fusion of fun, funk and functionality in everything from DJ residencies at emerging and established venues to the launch of your own web development company Cloud Concepts in 2016. Sitting firmly at the innovative end of the tech adoption curve you encourage likeminded business owners and tech-curious humans to adopt and flourish sharing your quirky gems of wisdom along the way.

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Ollie rk CLOUD CONCEPTS

W

ho or what inspired the passion within you, and to take on this journey and where did it all begin?

Credit goes to my parents for gifting me a Vtech Pre-Computer 2000 for my 11th birthday. It was on that device that I first discovered code and I was instantly hooked, like something clicked in my brain. I had no idea what opportunities an ability to write code might afford me, I just knew that the process of coding was extremely engaging.

I didn’t discover music until many years later and pursued it as a career goal for a good few years before coming back to computers.

As a creative and business mind do you subscribe to a firm business plan or move more with energy and flow?

It’s all intuition and probably a lot of scrambling. A plan is apparently a good idea; I’ve never been bothered to produce one, let alone believe I’d follow one. For me, going with the flow is the best way, although it has required that I adjust my perspective a fair bit, I’m not sure a plan would have helped with that, in any case.

help for those who are helping themselves seems like a good bet. It makes sense to exist in a way that adds value to the community within which one exists, be that your family, your region, and others. The goal is to continue consolidating existing methods and uncover new and innovative ways to derive as much value as possible from the internet for our clients, helping them consolidate their positions as providers of value to their own communities.

Hopefully, this results in some significantly positive impacts, the extent to which I can only hope is at least as significant as I can imagine it would be.

You have successfully transitioned from a full time career in music to building a successful tech company supporting SMEs to maximise the impact and reach via Cloud Concepts with some fun on the side. How important has it been to retain your creative avenue with your residency at Little Shack whilst kicking goals in the web world?

How do you envision you would make an impact as a small business in a regional/ coastal community?

It’s probably more important than I think.

Having DJ’d full-time for a long time, certainly well past the point where it continued to be enjoyable, I needed time to recuperate.

Given the effort required to get my fledgling small business off the ground, this helped me manage the transition.

Further developing a business that provides

However, once that itch came back, being able

to jump back into doing a few gigs here and there and then into the regular summer gigs at Little Shack has proven to provide some counterbalance to the intensity of operating the business.

What has been your most effective tool/s or attribute/s as a business owner that has enabled you to bring Cloud Concepts to life and make a difference?

The single most impactful tool is that others have done pretty much everything I’m trying to do in one way or another and then committed their learnings to pen and paper. That I can take in their findings and thoughts is a pretty significant hack. However, this approach needs to be combined with genuine curiosity and a desire to learn (and a lot of discipline). It’s important to me to make sure I get to do this the way I want to do it and the way I believe it should be done. If I wasn’t all that interested in the journey, I’d struggle to stay engaged enough to get good enough to stick it out for the longest possible term.

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

My greatest challenge has been overcoming the stage where things really weren’t going all that well, to the point where I was struggling to think about what my next move could be.

This memory remains fairly front of mind, but it was a good five years ago now, so luckily, I pushed through and kept going.

Now, I get to share the journey with the awesome team of Jess and Natalie, who are both hugely skilled and committed and have allowed us to grow and serve significantly

more businesses than I could have possibly handled on my own. I’m pretty proud to have created something that not only helps our clients but also affords these amazing people a job that I think they find at least as engaging as I do.

You have a natural flair and passion for all things tech and we can regularly see you adding your signature Ollie commentary to Linked In and other spaces - is there a particular project or event that stands out in your mind as game changer for you?

Thanks - good to see my nerdiness comes over as flair… That said, I don’t think there are particular projects or events that stand out.

There are often big and little wins along the way, but each significant event or landmark reached is just another step along the path. My favourite aspect is just getting to turn up and run things (almost) exactly how I want to run things, and having this pan out as an extremely effective approach.

How instrumental have sages and critics been in your evolution of your career/ business? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

I’d have to say both have been very instrumental. In my case, the sage is primarily the sage. I have had the pleasure of working with David Young from Never Late Electrical for well over a decade. His experience, book recommendations, acumen, and guidance proved instrumental over the years.

It would be remiss of me to neglect to mention the significant influence my wife Erin has on the process, too. Having recently opened

her own business at Sovereign Vet Hospital, her drive and tenacity continue to be a huge inspiration - plus, she’s very good at calling out my BS! The critics have been great at telling me I can’t do things a particular way because that always helps motivate me to prove them wrong - which they usually are.

Ollie, you have been an integral part of many community initiatives and providing tech support by offering your time, talent and skills to support social enterprises and emerging businesses, not for profits and charities. By helping them make an impact with high quality websites including Hastings Cancer Trust, Luminosity Youth Summit, Willing and Able, Lifeline and many others, how important is community to you and the success of the business?

As mentioned above, it’s vital. It’s really just the right thing to do, but it’s also quite sensible to consider that the best approach is to seek to serve. Obviously, business is business, and so we do exchange value for money for most of our clients, but we’re fortunate enough to be able to commit resources to many of those not-for-profits in our community who provide essential and dramatically undervalued services for members of the community.

Essentially, it boils down to where on the spectrum one sits between providing value for others and exploiting them. I think it’s important to consider that the degree to which one can contribute value and positivity to the world is highly correlated with a fairly deepseated feeling of satisfaction and a “job well done”.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 103

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EDUCATION

UPDATE REGIONAL SERVICE LEADER C AT H O L I C S C H O O L S O F F I C E , HASTINGS REGION

S

S T A G N E S ’ E D U C AT I O N D E V E L O P S

CREATIVE ArtsNest

E N R I C H I N G C R E AT I V I T Y A N D L E A R N I N G

t Agnes’ Education is proud to have introduced Creative Arts Nest in 2022, a dynamic hub for creative arts, education and community engagement in Port Macquarie. This initiative is designed to provide a wealth of opportunities for our students, enriching their educational journey with the vibrant world of the arts.

About Creative Arts Nest Creative Arts Nest is a beacon of creativity and community in the Hastings region, developed by St Agnes’ Education to foster creative expression and provide an unmatched high-calibre arts education. Offering a wide range of programs, workshops, and events for all ages, Creative Arts Nest, as it’s referred to, nurtures the artistic talents of individuals, encouraging them to explore their creative potential and contribute to the cultural fabric of our community.

One Community, One Vision In our Catholic schools, we believe in the power of unity and the strength that comes from working together as one.

The development of Creative Arts Nest embodies this philosophy, bringing together our commitment to holistic education and community engagement. This initiative is not just about integrating arts into our curriculum; it’s about creating a vibrant, inclusive environment where every child can thrive and

express themselves creatively.

Benefits for Our Students 1. Enhanced Creative Curriculum: Through Creative Arts Nest, our students have access to specialised arts programs led by experienced professionals. These programs complement our existing curriculum, providing a balanced and enriching educational experience.

2. Community Engagement: Creative Arts Nest is deeply rooted in the local community, and this initiative will strengthen our ties with the broader Port Macquarie area. Our students will have the chance to participate in community art projects, exhibitions, and performances, fostering a sense of belonging and civic pride.

3. Personal Growth and Confidence: Engaging in the arts is known to boost selfesteem, enhance communication skills, and encourage critical thinking. By immersing our students in creative activities, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who are confident in their abilities and ready to face the future with creativity and resilience.

4. One Big Opportunity Creative Arts Nest represents one big opportunity for our students to experience the transformative power of the arts. As a catholic education provider, we are committed to offering a comprehensive education that goes beyond academics. By integrating the arts into

our educational framework, we are preparing our students to become innovative thinkers, compassionate leaders, and active members of their community.

A Heartfelt Thank You We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors and judges who have made Creative Arts Nest possible: The Seed Creative, Drawn to Art, Alice in Paperland, Port Macquarie Surf School, Eckersleys, Innervision Surf and Skate, Sunset Gallery Framing and Printing, Wauchope Arts Hubs, Stoney Park, Wildnets, Pickled Pear Media, McKenzie Concepts and a huge thank you to Got Ya Back Productions, the heart of the program who keep it beating and in check!

Special thanks to our judges Leanne Prussing, Stuart Doherty, and Angus Crowley for their invaluable support and expertise.

Looking Forward We are excited about the journey ahead with Creative Arts Nest. Through this initiative, we will continue to inspire, educate, and nurture the next generation of creative minds in the Hastings region. Join us in celebrating this wonderful initiative and the endless possibilities it brings to our community. One initiative, one vision, one incredible future for our children.

For more information about Creative Arts Nest and their programs, visit www.artsnest.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 111

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Dr Julie e Tobias-Webb is a Professor of Practice in Behavioural Science at the AI & Cyber Futures Institute, one of 60 women in Australia nominated as a Superstar of STEM and recent Homeward Bound Antarctic explorer.

D

etermination, passion and courage have enabled Juliette to push though boundaries and stereotypes to achieve global success - taking her all the way from the Gold Coast, to Cambridge University and back to the Luminosity Youth Summit mainstage this July to share her incredible journey.

Juliette, you are an accomplished Professor of Practice in Behavioural Science at the AI & Cyber Futures Institute at Charles Sturt University, can you share the type of work you do and the project you are working on?

At the AI & Cyber Futures Institute, I'm driven by the profound impact of behavioural science on human lives. We're dedicated to placing humans at the forefront of technological advancement, ensuring our research enhances inclusivity, kindness, and diversity. Every project aims to build a better world, from studying digital interactions to combating bullying and cyberbullying. Collaborating with leaders, we shape decisions that prioritise human values in

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Dr

Juliette T O B I A S - W E B B

technology. Beyond research, I inspire global audiences on decision-making, exploring how our choices today can safeguard the future and tomorrow's Antarctica and beyond.

You hold a Doctor of Philosophy – PhD from Cambridge University UK in Experimental Psychology, did you ever imagine as a little girl that you would be studying on the other side of the world in this area of passion and expertise? How did your journey from an Australian high school to one of the most prestigious universities in the UK and the world begin?

Definitely not. Growing up on the Gold Coast, I faced academic challenges and was advised against sitting my Year 12 exams due to my poor performance. Despite this setback, I scraped into university and became the first in my family to attend university. I committed myself to studying three hours daily, which paid off as I consistently topped my classes.

I ended up receiving an academic medal for my achievements. Alongside these academic achievements, I navigated personal challenges, including supporting my brother through a significant brain injury.

One day, I made a bold decision to reach out to global universities to see if they would accept me. To my surprise, I received positive responses from professors at prestigious universities. The action of reaching out and encouragement from professors changed my life. I applied to Cambridge, where I was awarded a full scholarship, and completed my PhD without corrections. This journey taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and the transformative power of determination. From uncertain beginnings, I now contribute to global psychology research, grateful for every twist and turn that shaped my inspiring and unexpected path.

You have built an impactful career through the power of education and connection, with education ultimately enabling the professional success you have earned today. What has driven you to succeed and live a life of purpose and possibility when others may have shied away from the challenge?

Passion and the unwavering belief that determination can shape our reality have been my driving forces. Success unfolds through

Lucy Humphries Photography

persistence, even if not exactly as planned or immediately. Taking risks and actively seeking opportunities have been crucial; one must be in the game to win. Equally important are friends and communities, building new connections and seeking support have enriched my journey immeasurably. The quote "Ask and you shall receive" resonates with my approach to life and career, emphasising the power of proactive engagement and the transformative potential of education and connection.

You have worked with major clients that include Citibank, Mastercard and Atlassian, is there a particular project, client or experience that stands out in your mind as a game changer for you?

At Commonwealth Bank, we pioneered Australia's first gambling credit card block and developed support options for customers in vulnerable situations facing cognitive decline or domestic violence. These initiatives were pivotal in changing organisational discourse, moving away from solely attributing behaviour to individual choice. They underscored the importance of institutions designing effective support systems for all customers and highlighting missed opportunities when organisations fail to prioritise comprehensive customer support.

What has been your most influential attribute as an academic and entrepreneur that has enabled you to bring your impact to your work and make a real difference?

Courageously seeking help, pushing beyond comfort zones and thinking outside the norm

for impactful achievements.

What has been your greatest challenge in charting the world of STEM in a traditionally male dominated domain?

Navigating the male-dominated world of STEM has been tough, requiring resilience to overcome stereotypes and biases. I've faced doubts about my abilities because of my gender, like hearing comments such as "A blonde has to prove she can do a PhD" and questions about juggling a PhD with family responsibilities. A big challenge is the lack of visible female role models in influential STEM and influencer roles. It's disheartening to see the scarcity of female leaders to aspire.

Over time, hopefully, I can be a trailblazer in Psychology/Behavioural Science, akin to the David Attenborough of the field, inspiring future generations in STEM. How instrumental have sages and critics been in your evolution of your career/ business? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

Sages, with their wisdom, have been my guiding light, offering invaluable insights that helped me navigate challenges and make informed decisions. They've not only guided me in setting my consulting prices but also instilled in me the belief in my ability to overcome tough times and trust in myself.

Critics have also spurred my growth, but there is a need to discern between valuable and detrimental advice. Despite facing doubters who questioned my academic path and capabilities, I persisted and achieved my PhD at

Cambridge without corrections - a significant achievement. Their scepticism only strengthened my resolve to persevere and pursue ambitious goals – and I think everyone should find that as well. I've learned that with determination, we can achieve remarkable things, despite the challenges and sacrifices along the way.

You are bringing your journey leading to your Antarctic adventure with Homeward Bound to life on the Luminosity Youth Summit mainstage this year, what do you hope to bring to the summit theme of Purpose & Possibility for the 500 leaders in July?

With a sense of purpose, anything is possible.

I'm thrilled to bring my blend of academic rigor and adventurous spirit to the Luminosity Youth Summit. These values drive me, stemming from a passion for making STEM engaging and impactful. Despite occasionally feeling like an outsider in STEM due to my psychology background, I've persisted and made a substantial impact, demonstrating that anyone with purpose and passion can do the same.

I aim to inspire 500 leaders at the summit with the belief that purpose fuels limitless possibilities.

If you had one wish for young people today what would it be?

Find joy in learning and embrace all opportunities. Take the leap you’ve been thinking about, you never know where your career or your journey in the world will lead you.

Thanks Juliette.

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ABILITY ARTS CONNECT MNC 2024 CONNECT & CELEBRATE ARTISTS LIVING

eet le eek et he

2ND & 3RD AUGUST

EN EE T

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FR

WITH A DISABILITY ON THE MID NORTH COAST

PHOENIX

The 17 late the

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CONFERENCE

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ART WORKSHOPS

2ND PRIZE $600

ART PRIZE EXHIBITION OPENING

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Arts onne A BI LI TY

Nambucca Valley Phoenix will be hosting Ability Arts Connect; a two day event celebrating and sharing the art of people living with a disability through a conference, art workshops, a winter ball, and the Phoenix Art Prize exhibition opening.

C

an you tell us about the inspiration behind the Ability Arts Connect project and how it came to be?

Nambucca Valley Phoenix is a community owned and operated not for profit organisation that was created back in the 1980s. Founded by parents of people with intellectual disabilities to create a place where their children could be a part of community, have employment, and participate in further education and programs, community is at the heart of everything we do.

Art has always been a core feature at Phoenix. We have a variety of art programs with many talented artists exhibiting and selling their work at the Phoenix Gallery & Café in Bowraville. Ability Arts Connect was inspired by our passion to create professional development opportunities for artists with a disability. We wanted to connect with other artists to network, get inspired and be creative together and to address the gaps in support for artists with disabilities in the region. The Phoenix Art Prize is our way to showcase the

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talent in the region and acknowledge and celebrate the amazing contribution people with disabilities make to the arts and cultural landscape on the Mid North Coast (MNC).

commitment to increase inclusion and deliver creative outcomes in the region.

bad. We hope to create a network so we can continue to share information post this event and provide ongoing support for artists and others in the field. Arts MNC will assist with the network development as part of their

You’ll be hosting a two-day event at the beginning of August; can you tell us about the variety of activities and events planned?

The Phoenix Art Prize aims to highlight the variety of art created by artists living with What are the main goals and objectives disabilities in the region. The exhibition will be of the Ability Arts on show from Saturday Connect project?

3rd to 31st August at the Phoenix Gallery and Café As the name suggests, We wanted in Bowraville. The Winter Ability Arts Connect’s to connect Ball is all about having main goals are to with other artists to fun and meeting new connect artists and network, get inspired people. We wanted to their supporters, and be creative create a social event to offer professional together and to address help break down some development the gaps in support for of the social barriers opportunities and artists with disabilities people with disabilities showcase the incredible often experience in in the region. artistic talent out there! meeting new people or The conference will enjoying a night out with bring people together family and friends. It is an inclusive event, and to learn from experts in the field and to share all are welcome! their own experiences, the good and the

The Ability Arts Connect Conference is on

Supported art workshops in ceramics & painting will be run as an option for artists not wanting to participate in the conference.

Friday 2nd August.

We have talks from some experts in the field, an open forum for discussion and arts workshops. The conference aims to both inform and learn from artists with lived experience of disability and other stakeholders.

On Saturday 3rd August we will have the Phoenix Art Prize exhibition opening, artist talks and announcement of the prize winners.

The Art Prize is a celebration of the diversity of art practice from artists with lived experience of disability. Nibbles will be provided, and our beautiful café will be open from 9am – 2pm.

In the evening, we are hosting the Phoenix Winter Ball at Nambucca Heads RSL. Tickets are $50 & include dinner, DJ & a photobooth!

Could you tell us more about the Phoenix Art Prize?

Absolutely! First of all, entries close on the 14th of July and artists need to apply online through our website www.nvp.org.au. Do not miss out!

The Phoenix Art Prize is open to all artists 16+ who identify as living with a disability in the whole of the Mid North Coast and all levels of experience and mediums are welcome.

The judges for the prize are Ashleigh Frost, Curator Yarrilla Arts & Museum, Dr Emma Gentle and Olivia Parker, Arts MNC Director.

Prizes include $1000 for first prize, $600 for second prize and $400 for people’s choice

award, sponsored by Regional Australia Bank.

The exhibition will open on the 3rd of August and the winner will be announced then, followed by the announcement of the people’s choice award on the 30th of August.

Can you share some details about the workshops and conferences that will be held during the event?

Yes, firstly people should know this event is free thanks to the support of the Regional Art Fund and Arts MNC. Guest speakers at the conference include Carly Marchment, who will talk about her experience as a professional artist with a disability, Ashleigh Frost, the Curator of Yarrilla Arts & Museum at Coffs Harbour will talk about what to consider when exhibiting art and becoming an exhibiting artist, and Dr Emma Gentle, Art Therapist and Academic will be discussing the relationship between art and wellbeing. There is also an open forum session to discuss the needs of artists in the region, share experiences and build connections. Supported art workshops in ceramics and painting will be run as an option for artists not wanting to participate in the conference. The workshops will be run by teachers Michaela Kloeckner and Sharyn Brady, both with a wealth of experience in their art practice and working with people with

disabilities.

The Winter Ball at Nambucca Heads RSL sounds like a unique addition to the event. Can you tell us more about what attendees can expect from this celebration?

The Winter Ball is all about having fun and meeting new people! People can expect a great night with dinner and dancing and there will be a DJ and a photobooth. The Ballroom at the RSL will be dressed up in a winter theme.

The Nambucca Heads RSL are sponsoring the event and have gowns and suits available for free for anyone in need of something special to wear. It is an inclusive event, and all are welcome. Tickets are $50 and are available from our website www.nvp.org.au.

What message would you like to convey to artists with disabilities who might be considering participating?

As this is the first event of its kind for the MNC we encourage everyone to have a go and explore their creative boundaries. We are so keen to see the variety of talent and various mediums people are working in. This is a platform for artists to tell their stories.

Most importantly we want people to enjoy themselves.

Visit our website www.nvp.org.au or contact us at info@nvp.org.au for more information.

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H O T O N D O M I D

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N O R T H

H O M E S C O A S T

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FIONA & DEAN PETTERSON, ANDREW AND JULIANNE PETTERSON

ou own and operate Hotondo Homes, what inspired you to run this business together?

We are a local family who have been building new homes for clients for over 20 years on the Mid North Coast. About 9 years ago we decided to open our own franchise of Hotondo Homes which stemmed from a shared passion for building and owning our own national branded business. We all have a mutual desire to create homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. The ability to work on projects that transform our clients’ visions into reality is incredibly rewarding.

Andrew is the qualified builder, Fiona runs the accounts and finances of the business, Dean is our Sales Consultant and Julianne is our Marketing Manager. We have a small team of 5 other staff members that assist with the organisation of the building process for our clients. Our combined skills and experiences complement each other, making us a strong team.

We currently have a 5 star rating on Product Review winning a Customer Excellence award at our recent Hotondo Homes conference. We recently won construction and trade awards at the Macleay Valley Business Awards and Coastline Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards in the past month.

How do you balance your personal and

professional lives when running this business together?

We prioritise tasks efficiently to ensure we have quality time to balance both our professional and personal lives. By organizing our schedules effectively, we can meet business demands while still making time for family and other interests, As a hardworking family, we are committed to working efficiently. We enjoy being active in the community and sponsor many sporting and community events. This involvement allows us to combine our social life with our business activities, fostering connections and giving back to the community.

Being born and raised in the Macleay Valley, we maintain strong connections with other local families, many of whom work for us as tradies.

We regularly attend sports events, cultural events, race days, golf days, and various charity fundraisers. These activities not only support our community but also offer opportunities to socialise and unwind, mixing work with our social life.

What are the advantages of having a family-owned and operated business?

One of the greatest advantages is working on something we love. Our passion for home building and design means we are genuinely invested in our work, which leads to higher motivation and job satisfaction. Working closely as a family, allows us to spend time together, whilst working at our own job role within the business. We all get along well, but

like any normal family have our occasional disagreements, but we manage to resolve them quickly, which is the result of 9 years of business together. We enjoy participating in events and community activities, attending business events and conferences, which helps us build strong relationships with clients, partners, and other local businesses. As a family business, we put a lot of passion into the business and are focused on building a positive reputation for the brand. We now have our son working in the business with us, and look forward to ensuring the ongoing success of Hotondo Homes Mid North Coast.

Can you share a memorable success story or achievement that you’ve experienced together in your business?

Oh, there has been so many! We loved our first ever conference in Fiji, where we got to meet so many other franchisees and learn so much about the business. We have continued to attend these conferences yearly and meet and connect with many of our suppliers, share stories, be inspired and learn so much from the other builders. But the most memorable success and achievement has to be at last years conference – where we were awarded the “National Professional Builder of the Year” This is a massive achievement and a true testament to the quality work our team put into our business to produce affordable and quality new dream homes for local families on the Mid North Coast.

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Hotondo H O M E S

M I D

N O R T H

C O A S T

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ell us what inspired the features, colour palette and all round design of the home.

We embraced a Mediterranean/ Palm Springs theme (which is very popular in architectural homes for 2024/2025), reflecting the growing trend in residential home building. To achieve this, we softened the lines, incorporating more curves rather than the sharp, clean lines prominent in the past decade.

This home’s floorplan was a custom design by us, which is now included in the Hotondo Homes National flooplan’s list. We designed it to work with the orientation of the block and

the fact it was quite small and narrow. We wanted to incorporate ideas to meet different options clients are looking for in new builds such as - three living areas (one closer to the children’s bedrooms and then one dedicated to media), L-shaped kitchen/family/dining area leading out to the alfresco area, a study space tucked away for the children/teenagers, a powder room with a separate vanity for older children, wet areas in bathrooms rather than a small shower tucked away in the corner, functional butler’s pantry and a “Wow factor” in the ensuite with our curved shower area.

The color palette features warm earthy tones, warm whites, and rich walnut timbers, complementing the rustic Mediterranean aesthetic. We added muted sage green tones to contrast with these earthy hues.

To showcase new styling trends, we used Moroccan-patterned tiles, stone rock feature walls, breeze block patterns, vertical textured panels on walls and cabinets (including demiround, scallop, and baton styles), small square wall tiles, curved vanities, and arched openings throughout the home. These trends emphasise the importance of curves and are likely here to stay.

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builder and owner of the business, manages the trades and works closely with them on the job sites to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The process, look and functionality of a home being built nowadays compared to 10 even 5 years ago is so different. Why is this and what factors did you take into consideration when building the home?

For the interior styling, we introduced furniture and decor that complement the architectural theme. Soft, rounded furniture pieces, such as curved sofas and circular coffee tables, create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

We used natural materials like rattan, wicker, and linen to enhance the rustic Mediterranean vibe. Textured rugs and cushions in warm earthy tones and muted greens add depth and cosiness to the spaces.

by a large patio area and enticing dipping pool.

It’s a private and cosy space for entertaining or soaking up the Mid North Coast sunshine.

This home is absolutely stunning. Who were some of the trades that helped construct this home?

Our trades are amazing! They are all local to the Mid North Coast, and most have been working for us since we started the franchise 9 years ago. They have a reputation for their efficient and quality Our build workmanship. Our build times are times are under 6 months under 6 months and and this is a reflection this is a reflection of the commitment the of the commitment team produce and how the team produce well they work together. and how well they Andrew, our qualified

In the landscaping, we combined traditional Mediterranean and coastal plants, incorporating beautiful olive trees, tall Bangalow palms, lower shrubs, cactus plants, and pavers on the sandy work together. ground cover to evoke a Palm Springs vibe. We added a garden bed behind the wall above the garage door for trailing plants to cascade over time. A curved stone feature wall at the front complements the home’s curved exterior facade, further emphasising our focus on curves.

As seen in our Mediterranean theme, there is a shift towards incorporating curves and softer lines, moving away from the sharp, clean lines of the past. Today we have more options for customising homes to fit clients’ personal tastes and lifestyles, from bespoke cabinetry, patterned and textured tiles, to unique architectural details.

Modern homes often feature open floor plans that enhance the flow of space and make the home feel more spacious and connected.

New homes are built with energy efficiency in mind, using better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and renewable energy sources like solar panels.

Readers can book a private tour of this home, tell us how they go about doing this?

You can book a private viewing of this beautiful and unique home by visiting our current display home in Sovereign Hills Display Village at 2 York St, Thrumster, ringing our office on 6583 1034, or registering your interest on our builders website page at hotondo.com.au/homebuilders/port-macquarie

What are some of your favourite features of this home and why?

The open plan kitchen/dining/living space which opens up to the alfresco area with large floor to ceiling bi-fold doors is a view to remember. As you enter the outdoor space, you are welcomed GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 123

focus_contributor.

Fragrance How to Make Your Home Smell Amazing

HOME

Styling

with ANTHONY BERINGEN

C

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

reating a home that smells amazing is more than just a luxury; it's a way to enhance your living environment, boost your mood, and create a welcoming atmosphere. The journey to a beautifully scented home begins with eliminating household odours and then layering in delightful fragrances. Here are some expert tips and tricks.

1. Empty the Kitchen Bin Frequently The kitchen bin is a common source of unpleasant smells so make it a habit to empty it regularly. Use bin liners with built-in odour control and regularly clean the bin with water and vinegar to keep it fresh.

2. Change Bath Towels Regularly Damp towels can quickly develop a musty smell. Ensure you change your bath towels at least twice a week ensuring they dry completely. Adding a cup of white vinegar can also help eliminate any lingering odours.

3. Refresh Your Bed Linen Weekly Your bed is a place of rest and relaxation, but it can also harbour stale smells. Aim to change your bed linen once a week and for an extra touch of freshness, add a few drops of essential oil to your laundry detergent.

Once you've tackled the sources of bad odours, it's time to introduce beautiful, natural fragrances into your home. Here are some of the best ways to do so:

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Room Diffusers. Room diffusers are an excellent way to continuously disperse fragrance throughout your home. Opt for natural essential oils for a more authentic and long-lasting scent. Scents like Tea and Lemongrass are perfect for creating a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere, while Lily and Black Orchid can add a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Room Sprays. These are perfect for those moments when you need an instant burst of fragrance. Choose sprays made with natural essential oils to avoid synthetic chemicals. Basil and Mandarin is a delightful combination that can uplift your spirits and add a zesty, herbal note to your home.

Soy Candles. Soy candles are a fantastic addition as they burn cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin candles and are made with natural essential oils. A soy candle can create a sense of calm and tranquility, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day. Scents like Tea and Lemongrass, Lily and Black Orchid, and Basil and Mandarin can transform your living space into a scented haven.

To truly make your home smell amazing, consider layering different scents in various rooms. Here are some ideas: Living Room. The living room is a central gathering space, so opt for welcoming and versatile scents. A room diffuser with Tea and Lemongrass can keep the area smelling fresh

and inviting and add a soy candle in Lily and Black Orchid for a touch of luxury.

Bedroom. This room should be a sanctuary of relaxation. Use a room spray with Basil and Mandarin to refresh the space before bedtime. A soy candle in a calming scent like Lavender or Chamomile can also help you unwind and prepare for a restful night's sleep.

Bathroom. A combination of room sprays and diffusers like Eucalyptus and Mint can provide a spa-like experience, while a diffuser with Tea and Lemongrass can keep the space smelling clean and fresh.

Kitchen. Opt for scents that complement the culinary environment. A room diffuser with Basil and Mandarin can add a fresh, herbal note that pairs well with cooking aromas.

Avoid overly sweet or floral scents that might clash with food smells.

By starting with a clean slate and eliminating household odours, you set the foundation for introducing natural fragrances. The key is to select high-quality, natural essential oils that resonate with your personal preferences.

Discover the luxurious range of Cereria Molla candles, room sprays and reed diffusers now available at our OPEN HOUSE Sovereign Hills Design Centre. These products are exceptional quality and will help transform your house into a beautifully fragranced haven. Drop into our Design Centre in the Sovereign Hills Shopping Complex today.

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A

s the months roll on I am pleased to say that we are settling into a groove again ready for the start of the spring and summer season which will be upon us before we know it. As mentioned in one of our recent Facebook posts we have definitely weathered a few storms over recent months – in business and personally. Now is the perfect time to mention all our amazing staff who we are so blessed to have with us. Together we have worked through the ups and downs and are feeling enthused and on track for a really positive second half of the year.

June saw two more workshops in our beautiful showroom space. We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming some wonderful ladies to a floral artistry workshop with Kath from Bourne St Blooms and a crochet rug making workshop with Tina from Red Door on Cameron. Thanks to those who attended, and to Tina and Kath for hosting the fun events. Coming up in July we have the following: Saturday July 20th – Colours Workshop – attendees will be assessed with the best clothing and accessory colours based on their skin and hair colour – limited spaces available. On Thursday July 25th we also have another floral workshop with Kath – this will be a table arrangement format so for anyone who has already attended feel free to book again as we are learning something new this time around. Once again spaces are limited and already filling fast. Planning ahead we have a paint and sip with the gorgeous Jemma

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SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS Ortiger who painted our beautiful mural in our showroom. This will be on Saturday August 10th August. All workshops can be booked by emailing: sales@newtonblinds.com.au.

Given we are now in the second half of the year already it is time to start thinking ahead for summer and your Christmas plans. We have so many customers who start planning for their outdoor areas and the demand can get quite intense to have all the outdoor awnings and shutters manufactured and installed. It may feel too early to start booking in for quotes and discussions around the summer outdoor products but it really is never too early. Chatting now means you have time to plan and choose without feeling rushed and we can ensure we have everything in place ready for the summer heat and your Christmas guests.

If you haven’t made it to our showroom yet, put it in your calendar. What you will find is that we are so much more than just a blinds shop. Along with all standard blinds, awnings and shutters, we can offer you bespoke curtains, romans and other blinds. We also have custom made lamp shades, you can select your fabric and shape and we will have them made for you.

We also have hand carved timber lamp bases made by a very talented local man, and again you can select a shape and we can arrange for them to be made for you. Laura Ashley fabrics are in store and we are really excited to already be making up some AMAZING curtains in the most fabulous fabric, keep an eye on our social media for product photos as they come to hand. We don’t know if you are aware

of the enormous range of fabrics we have in store – ranging from Nettex, Charles Parsons, James Dunlop, Mokum, Warwick, Wilson, Maurice Kain, Porter & Stone, Beaumont as well as Indigenous fabrics from Willie Weston and the funky collections from Walter G and Ink & Spindle. You can make a full day’s outing to our showroom, bring a coffee, listen to the music and find a comfy spot to sit and explore the amazing fabrics. You might choose some to be made into cushions, tablecloths, napkins or select something to cover your favourite chair or bedhead. While you’re here you can also collect some ceramic planter pots or artworks, locally made candles, cushions by Laura Ashley and Zaab or beautiful bed linen from Laura Ashley.

We are so much more than a blinds shop, and we are still working hard every day to provide the best quality products and installations of blinds, awnings, shutters or curtains. As my dear Nana always said… Bye for now

TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR WINDOWS?

W E

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We have a team of 6 in-house glaziers and carpenters who collectively bring decades of experience to every project, covering the full spectrum from windows and sliding doors to stacking doors, bifold doors, louvres and custom products– essentially, everything glass.

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