Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i221

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221 AUGUST 2024

LEE SCOTT

H EL

LO SAILOR

W H AT’S O N BILLY VS ELTON

OPERA AUSTRALIA - LA BOHÈME

Saturday 10 August, 7.30pm

Saturday 17 August, 7.30pm

ONE OF PUCCINI’S MOST FAMOUS OPERAS

FEATURING THE 2024 PORT MACQUARIE OPERA AUSTRALIA CHILDREN’S CHOIR

TWO STRONG HEARTS Sunday 25 August, 2.30pm

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

ALBUMS TURNING 50 THE 1974 EDITION Saturday 24 August, 2pm

Follow Glasshouse:

@ GLASSHOUSE VISITORS LEAVE, RIGHT?

THE VISITORS Thursday 29 August, 7.30pm + Post Show Q&A

CELTIC ILLUSION Monday 2 September, 7.30pm

LIMITED SEATS REMAINING TO EXCLUSIVE PRE-SHOW FUNCTION

GRUG Tuesday 13 August, 4.30pm Wednesday 14 August, 10am & 12.30pm

PERFECT FOR AGES 2+

See page 15 for exhibitions and programs

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

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

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

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

W

elcome to August, another month which has come around way too quickly.

Inside this edition; August is our annual Men IN Business editon and this year it’s a beauty.

Congratulations and thank you to the 14 men who jumped on board and went with our vision to make this year’s Men IN Business feature something pretty cool.

Another thank you goes to our cover boys Scott and Lee, this shoot was a lot of fun and they nailed the brief. Speaking

of Men IN Business, at age 13 Patrick is the owner and creator of Sweet Tooth Marshmallows. With an already amazing resume this young man is definitely going places. Read all about Patrick and his Sweet Tooth Marshmallows on pages 100-103. We had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Michele Cheers. Michele owns ‘Design

by Michele’ and has created the Olympic rings for the Australian Hockey teams representing the country in Paris! How amazing is that?! Read all about Michele and how she came to be involved in these designs on pages 24 & 25.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 0447 157 340 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

contacts.

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

There’s also lots to celebrate in this edition.

Congratulations to Port Macquarie Football Club who are having their 50th anniversary this month. Sport is a huge part of our area, and we are blessed to have so many sporting clubs and opportunities, not only for our kids, but for those who play and are involved in one way or another.

Last but not least, Fashion on the Field for the 2024 Port Cup has launched. Check out this year’s info on page 18 and scan the QR code for more info. This year’s fashion is set to be pretty impressive and we can’t wait.

Get excited people racing is back in Port!

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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Learn more

Empowering Regional Business 1300 062 | regionalaustraliabank.com.au Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL & Australian Credit Licence 241167 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 9

ISSUE 221 - AUGUST 2024 INTERVIEWS

20

54

80

NA R D I B E R E S FO R D

GRINSPOON

M I A S ZU M OWS K I

Nardi Beresford is the CEO at Port Macquarie Race Club, and with racing soon returning to Port Macquarie, and some exciting events on the calendar, we caught up with her to hear all about it.

Grinspoon have their new album ‘Whatever, Whatever' being released on the 9th August and will be heading off on a huge tour across the country, including a show at Finnian's Irish Tavern on Sunday 27th October.

Mia is a 16 year old local athlete who has been selected to compete in the World Junior Sanda Championships in Brunei.

She is the only female among the three athletes chosen to represent Australia.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

STEPHEN PARES

43. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 53. Lusanna Koltz - Monthly Musings 60. Melinda Newton - Newton Blinds 68. Bernie Ginane - Calm 72. Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health 84. Rachel Leman - Fitness Update 106. Stephen Pares - Education Update 108. Bec Farnsworth - Money Matters 110. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice 116. Emilie Cooper - Legal Light 120. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate 124. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling

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

Thank you for your contribution to focus

Follow us on

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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

focusmag.com.au

now on display at Beatties

Beatties

Quality Furniture

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday closed Sunday 9am-12pm Cnr Pioneer St & Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484

www.beattiesfurniture.com.au

2

CARAVAN, CAMPING, 4WD, FISH AND BOAT SHOW

The Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show is back again this year! Join us at the Wauchope Showgrounds from Friday 2nd to Saturday 4th August. You don’t want to miss this, we will have some incredible discounts available and some awesome gear for you to check out! A great day out for the whole family.

Where Wauchope Showground When Fri, Aug 2 - Aug 4 9am- 4pm

ST 20

24

8

AU G U

HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS COMMUNITY DAY

Let’s turn the Glasshouse Forecourt into a donation wonderland! We are accepting donations of blankets, tents, camping gear, jackets, pantry items and winter woolies.

Drop in and meet the wonderful services helping those in our area experiencing homelessness and find out how you can help.

All money received through BBQ sales will go back into supporting locals doing it tough.

15

MEET THE DISTILLERS GIN DINNER

3 Wise Men. Join us for an exclusive evening at Tacking Point Tavern where you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet the master distillers behind locally renowned Three Wise Men Distillery. The night will also feature a delectable three-course meal, carefully curated to complement a selection of gins.

Tickets $60 - Limited seats - Book now.

When Thu, Aug 15 AT 6pm

When Thursday, Aug 8 at 10am

PLANET SKATE

3

Come to our birthday and help us celebrate while being gifted cheap sessions and extra FREE birthday presents!

Book your session to secure your spot in the free classes! Get ready for the epic music entertainment in the evening! All ages - drug and alcohol free event!

When Saturday 3rd August, 6pm-10pm Where 10 Chestnut Rd Port Macquarie Tickets $10 12 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

10

WAUCHOPE VOLUNTEER EXPO

Wauchope is hosting its own Volunteer Expo on 10th August at the Showground between 10am - 2pm. Gold coin donation, monster raffle, live music, food demonstrations and displays from your volunteer groups. Come along and see what our town can do for you and your community. Event by NSW RFS - Wauchope Brigade and CWA Wauchope Branch.

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EaTS SOUL SAVOUR FESTIVAL 24 Discover the hidden talents of Port Macquarie with “Port Macquarie’s Got Talent” – a showcase of our local stars, proving that our community is bursting with creativity and flair. Wander through vibrant market stalls and indulge your taste buds at diverse food trucks. From local crafts to delectable cuisines, there’s something for everyone. When August 31st from 12 to 6pm Where Port Macquarie Racecourse!!

Opening Night: Friday 30 August, 6pm

On view until

Artist in Residence: Luke Thurgate Friday 30 & Saturday 31 August.

Sunday 18 August

FREE TOURS

On view: 31 August until 24 November

Saturday

Charcoal Drawing Masterclass: Sunday 1 September, 10am - 4pm Bookings essential.

3, 10, 17 August, 10.30am Bookings essential

Archibald Prize 2023 finalist, Laura Jones Claudia (the GOAT) (detail) © the artist

Jane Grealy, Maria’s Garden, Scheme C, 2022, pastel on paper, 67 x 108 cm, 97 x 133 cm (framed)

Bookings essential: glasshouse.org.au 6581 8888

IN THE GALLERY

On view: 24 August until 3 November Opening night: Friday 30 August, 6pm Kaylene Whiskey, Kaylene TV, 2020, (still, detail), single-channel video, 1 min. Courtesy the artist and Iwantja Arts, Indulkana, APY Lands, SA

With Gabriella Domin, Libby Mitchell & Fiona Solley Saturday, 5.30pm - 7.30pm 3 August, 7 September, 5 October, 2 November, 7 December

drawing

IN THE GALLERY

With Carly Marchment Friday, 5.30pm - 7.30pm 6, 13, 20, 27 September 4, 11, 18, 25 October

Visions of Australia

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

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

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

Follow Glasshouse:

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

VER STORY LLO SAILOR

H E L L O

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S A I L O R

Lee and Sco have a shared love for delicious food and drink, great live music, festival vibes and sharing that experience with the wider community. They opened Hello Sailor at their stunning marina location and took the challenges that came along head on, to create what has become a favourite PMQ venue for locals and visitors alike.

H

i guys, Can you tell us about the beginnings of Hello Sailor? Where did the concept for this venue come from?

The inception of Hello Sailor (HS) began a couple of years before the venue doors went up. We had been working together on a few projects throughout the years involving live entertainment and food and beverage with great success. Our backgrounds have varying disciplines throughout entertainment including film, fashion, television, theatre, events, music production, touring and management. It was the next

natural step to bring these things together under one HS umbrella.

At the time we were coming off the back of a number of local

Hello Sailor had to be the kind of place we would want to go to and is inspired by some of the venues we’ve enjoyed over the years.

Food inspired menus with live local bands. This was the catalyst that started the dream of a Summer Pop-Up venue, which actually then led to the permanent festival style venue with all the Hello Sailor elements you can

events, The Port Macquarie Beer & Cider, Live Lane Festival and one in particular which was based in the Marina - The Marina Street Food Festival – 3000 people over two days with well-known restaurants/café/ breweries showcasing their version of Street

experience today.

Hello Sailor had to be the kind of place we would want to go to and is inspired by some of the venues we’ve enjoyed over the years.

You opened Hello Sailor at a challenging time (COVID, fires and floods), can you tell us about what the early days were like and what made you persevere with the project?

What a time for us and other businesses! The first onset of COVID kicked in a couple of weeks after we decided to take the plunge. A decision that was made over the phone with Scott sitting in +40 degree heat in Western Australia and Lee in - 40 degrees in Canada.

We used the first lock down to our advantage, utilising this time to plan the venue, the theme and style, the construction elements and the mountain of logistics and paperwork required to open a licensed venue.

Continued over...

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 15

photo credit: Atlantis Creative

Through our

once the water had previous subsided, we picked adventures, we know ourselves up, wiped that Port Macquarie ourselves down and it in general loves live was only a couple days some of the challenges music and given the before we were back you’ve faced and how layout of our venue, up and pumping. We have you overcome we felt we could were fortunate that we them? offer a cool se ing actually had a flood Oft!!! All the challenges! for artists and their plan in place. Great But if it was easy… audiences. prior planning helped everyone would be doing save us and once it right. again, our awesome Absolutely there have community came been some challenges, obviously the ones flooding back to support us - (pun intended). mentioned but also some, let’s say bureaucracy It’s a very popular venue, what has based ones which can go unmentioned, but I it meant to you to experience the think were well advertised at the time. community’s response to Hello Sailor?

From certain avenues it’s easy to say there is More importantly to us, we had an amazing new crew that we needed to look after and keep engaged until the Sails could go back up and trade properly.

Then there were the floods!

Hello Sailor sits 1.4m below the 100-year flood level. The water filled our venue just above waist high but with the help of our amazing team, friends and some local businesses, 16 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

It really is the motivation. We sometimes get so lost in the business side, head down, bum up and can easily forget to acknowledge the praise and support. But the positive feedback really is humbling and makes it all worth the work and inspires us to keep inventing new and exciting things.

The location there at the Marina is incredible but not always an easy one for you guys as business owners. What are

little, if any, support for small business. But you want it…You go get it. No challenge has been too big, it’s all about how you manage and react to the issue.

Hello Sailor has become a hot spot for live gigs in the area. What do you enjoy about hosting musicians and why is it important to you to support and provide a venue for these artists?

The live entertainment element was always at

another big year of entertainment and events.

What are some of the things that you feel have contributed to Hello Sailor becoming such a well-loved hub in the community?

Our amazing crew!!!

Being genuine to our guests and providing a great ongoing experience and aligning with other great local businesses, we really are stronger together.

They always go to the next level and adopt our ethos. Strong leadership.

Our ability to evolve and offer something inspired, creative and new. Supporting the community as often as we can. Being genuine to our guests and providing a great ongoing experience and aligning with other great local

businesses, we really are stronger together.

Do you have any plans or aspirations for the future of Hello Sailor?

For now, we’ll continue to plan and refine the venue, we have some collaborations in the works and there is always the chance HS might go on tour, or also appear elsewhere. the forefront during the planning of HS, for both local talent and national touring artists.

Through our previous adventures, we know that Port Macquarie in general loves live music and given the layout of our venue, we felt we could offer a cool setting for artists and their audiences. This is a major focus for our business and a direct extension of the type of venue we would like to visit.

hospo legends.

Where can we follow the HS journey, keep

Have you got any exciting gigs coming up that you can share with us?

All the usual places – socials, Hello Sailor’s

Heaps in the pipeline – stay tuned to our socials to stay up to date. But safe to say it’s gonna be

up to date with what’s on, or get in touch? website or swing by for a chat.

Thanks guys.

Have there been any standout events or moments for you in the time you’ve had Hello Sailor?

Honestly there have been so many great times for HS. It’s hard to single any out. But we have loved hosting many charity events and contributing to raise money in some much needed areas. It goes without saying that all the live gigs have been high points and on a more sentimental topic, having had some incredible young people along for the journey, helping HS become what it is today and watching them grow and become badass GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 17

SHOWCASE YOUR STYLE: Step into the spotlight and shine with your most stunning race-day attire for your chance to win thousands of dollars worth of prizes.

Register on the day at the Fashions on the Field Registration Marquee from 11:00am - 1.00pm.

CATEGORIES Best Dressed Lady Best Dressed Gentleman Best Millinery

Friday,

11 October 2024

Port Macquarie Race Club PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

For more information scan QR code below or visit portcentralshopping.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 19

Nardi Beresford P M Q

R A C E

C L U B

Nardi Beresford is the CEO at Port Macquarie Race Club, and with racing soon returning to Port Macquarie, and some exciting events on the calendar, we wanted to catch up with her to hear all about it.

H

i Nardi. Can you share a bit about when you joined Port Macquarie Race Club and what your role is?

I joined Port Macquarie Race Club in 2017 in administration after working at Scone Race Club and Quirindi Jockey Club.

The opportunity to move into the role of CEO presented itself in October 2022 after the retirement of long standing CEO Michael Bowman. Michael was a fantastic mentor and I am excited to take over the reins of the Club.

Racing will be returning to PMQ very soon, can you tell us about some of the events you have coming up?

We are very excited that Racing will be returning to Port. Our first race day back will be the WIN Network Port Macquarie Cup Prelude on Sunday 29th September. This will be a family day with lawn games, face painting and other 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

children’s activities. Following on 10 days later will be the Carlton Dry 3.5 Port Macquarie Cup on Friday 11th October. We have some new ideas in the works for this one with the introduction of an infield precinct which we are aiming toward our 18-30 year old crowd. It will have bars, food trucks and a DJ performing throughout the afternoon….all with the best seats in the house. They also get to kick on with the DJ for an hour after the last race. We will once again have corporate marquees as well as a fully inclusive hospitality marquee. Fashions on the Field for all the fashionistas will be back and is proudly sponsored by Gowings Port Central and Focus Magazine. So ladies, get your outfits ready and gents, suit up!

What has been happening at the club over the past few months, we hear there have been some improvements?

Aside from the obvious track reconstruction, we have been lucky enough to be able to partner with Char Bar Catering who now call Port

Macquarie Race Club home. Char Bar offers wonderful service and we are looking forward to them enhancing the raceday and function experience. We have employed Dan Underhill as our Venue Manager. Dan comes with a wealth of experience and we are excited to have him on board to help streamline raceday and function bookings.

How do you anticipate the new track will impact the quality of racing and the overall experience for jockeys, trainers, and horses?

We anticipate that we are going to be able to provide one of the best racing surfaces in NSW. The track drainage during the past few wet periods we have had is very promising. We don’t want to over race the track too early, but once we are confident with its performance and it becomes well established, we will be able to race in all weather and where other clubs cannot, we can help them out by taking on their meetings. It will hopefully give all industry

We start off with some really big days that already have people talking and enquiring about so I think the attendance will be high. I anticipate our crowd numbers for Cup to be probably one of our largest over the 2 days. participants some confidence and they will want to come to race at Port.

Are there any particular races or events this season that you are especially excited about or that you think will stand out?

I am really excited for our Cup Carnival. It is my first one as CEO and although this makes me very nervous, I have changed it up a bit with some new ideas and I really want to see how it is received by the patrons who attend. I feel like there is a lot of buzz in the community about a return to racing and in particular Port Cup so I am hoping we provide an event they will remember. We will once again have our Calcutta on at Settlers Inn on the Thursday night before Cup. Tickets will be going on sale at all Flower Hotel venues soon so keep an eye out for them.

What are your expectations for this racing season in terms of attendance, participation, and overall excitement?

This racing season will be interesting. We start off with some really big days that already have people talking and enquiring about so I think the attendance will be high. I anticipate our crowd numbers for Cup to be probably one of our largest over the 2 days. What is also interesting this season is that our annual New Years Day Raceday falls on a Wednesday and will be followed 2 days later by another meeting, so it will be like a mini carnival. Even though the focus now is on returning to racing and Port Cup, we still have plenty to offer throughout the year.

It looks like an exciting racing season ahead, what are some of the benefits for members and what’s involved in becoming a member?

Membership at Port Macquarie Race Club is a great way to become involved in the club.

There are many benefits to being a member and we have added a few extra benefits to our membership this year. Members on Cup Day have priority entry 30 minutes before the general public entry. They will also have first option at purchasing tickets to our luncheon

package in the Ivan Livermore Stand which overlooks the main straight. Entry to the stand this year will be ticketed only and we expect them to sell fast. All ticketing will be online at the start of August. Members also have the extra benefits of free entry, discounted drinks and venue hire and reciprocal rights with many other race clubs.

What is your vision for the future of Port Macquarie Race Club, especially in light of the new tracks and upcoming racing season?

My vision for the club is simple. I want Port Macquarie Race Club to be the premier racing, training and events venue in country NSW. Where can we keep up to date on upcoming events or get in touch?

You can keep up to date with what is happening at the club via our website and on our socials. We will provide important information in relation to our Cup Carnival as well as all other racedays and events happening throughout the year. After such a lengthy stint on the ‘sidelines’ we cannot wait to get back in the action and provide you with a wonderful experience, whether it be at a raceday or private function.

Thanks Nardi.

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COLLINS BOOKSELLERS

BOOK BOOK Review Review COLLINS BOOKSELLERS

J U L Y J U L Y

Red River Road When the

By Anna Downes Moon Hatched RRP: $34.99

By Sarah A. Parker

Lose yourself in a good book and let your mind wander

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 22

Another excellent Australian RRP: $34.99 crime fiction book that follows As anasassassin for the Katy she travels up the Coral rebellion, Raeve is captured Coast in WA searching for her and triedsister, for murder, missing Phoebe.tied As to she amakes post and offered as athe snack her way along route to the wild dragons. that Phoebe travelled,Rescued a battered by Burn King andthe bruised Lily - and whotaken is clearly across she mustor on the the runcountry, from something learn to listen to herself someone - hitches a rideand with her to survive.

Katy.surroundings Suspicions, secrets, and When Hatched stories the pullMoon Katy into a webis of an incredible book that with will twists dangerous liaisons keep and turns that will have you fl icking through the you pages hooked the first page.An to get tofrom the next chapter.

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

Among the The Anxious Grey Gums

By Paula J. Beavan Generation

RRP: $32.99

By Jonathan Haidt Among the Grey Gums is a RRP: $36.99 historical murder mystery with aBecoming touch of known romance, set in the as the Hunter Valley.

Lucy Stewart is ‘disconnected generation’ this doing a man’s jobthe in asocial man’s book delves into issues, world.

When her brother-inenvironmental challenges, the law, Joe, ismental arrested, accused increased distress among of murder and threatened with adolescents.

Social psychologist the hangman’s Jonathan Haidt noose, argues local that the constable Donovan starts decline in Sam free-play and the rise an investigation for intochildren the local in smartphones as bush down youngranger as 10 gang years to oldhunt contribute the real killers. signifi cantly to A thewell-researched disconnection historical drama, this story brings between adolescents and their

family and society more broadly.

This is a serious book which addresses serious issues facing thegeneration early days of settlement in this and beyond, and NSW to life.

A strategies limited number proposes some for of signed copies governments, are available in parents, schools, store. and teens themselves.

FOR FORAA10% 10%DISCOUNT DISCOUNTON ONEITHER EITHEROF OFTHESE THESEBOOKS, BOOKS, BRING BRINGTHIS THISAD ADINTO INTOOUR OURSTORE STOREatat6464Clarence ClarenceStreet, Street, Port PortMacquarie, Macquarie,ororphone phoneorder orderon on5590 55900797.

0797.

Michele hrs

D E S I G N

B Y

M I C H E L E

Michele Cheers has been a jeweller for over four decades, running first Micheles Jewellers and now Design By Michele here in Port Macquarie. Her other great love is sport, in particular hockey, and so she has found a niche in combining these passions and making special sports jewellery; most recently making Olympic rings for the Australian Hockey teams representing the country in Paris!

H

i Michele, can you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to be a jeweller?

I often wondered what career path I would follow. Technical drawing was my main interest, I thrived on accuracy, detail and the measurement of millimetres intrigued me.

I was introduced to a Greek master jeweller in my hometown of Taree by my school career officer, who had a vision I could succeed in this path. It was the 80’s and jewellery making was a male dominated trade, so my master jeweller was hesitant that I would survive in the workshop of males.

I was offered a 3-month trial of soldering, 24 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

filing, rolling of metals and cleaning mostly dirty workshop tools and machinery, I was put to the test.

I succeeded in the trial and was indentured to the world of apprentice jeweller for 4 years.

I was lucky to have such a quality master, he was firm and hard, but my skills improved fast. I thrived on learning ancient skills, one of which was the pouring of gold into cuttlefish from the beach to form a mould of ancient casting.

My style of jewellery creating mainly comes from the customer and then providing the service they want… so listening to their needs and their vision of what they might like me to do. I then add my creative ideas to produce the best experience for my client which I find is rare today, so I really work hard to provide this service.

Where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from?

On completion of my apprenticeship, I was highly motivated to go out on my own to a very small outlet in Forster Tuncurry. Here I formed MICHELES JEWELLERS - trading for almost 38 years before I took a short break.

My inspiration comes from being confident in my skills to know that I can create or repair a piece of jewellery for the customer and know they will love it forever and feel “so glad they decided to have that piece remade or repaired.”

How would you describe your style when it comes to your jewellery designs?

I certainly have learnt the skill of not working under high pressure. I find I have more time

to spend on a creation, allowing me to provide the customer with a finished item that they are absolutely thrilled with. This can sometimes be as simple as repairing a piece of jewellery so you can wear it again - I find this very satisfying.

MICHELE - A LOCAL JEWELLER CREATING PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC RINGS

Something that makes you quite unique is your focus on making jewellery for athletes in different sports. We hear you’ve made something special for our Australian Hockey Some of the teams?

Sport is a super high passion of mine, hockey being my main sport where in the year 2000, I represented Australia in the O35’s Women's Masters team.

technical challenges were that the Kookaburras Ring was slightly larger scale than the Hockeyroos Ring, and the rings were all designed in each of the athletes individual finger sizes and their Australian Cap number etched on the inside of the ring.

I have been creating hockey jewellery at national events for over a decade now, partnering with Hockey Australia to make a Hockey Australia pendant for all representatives of Australian level, in any age group.

Now in 2024, and proudly for the first time ever, I have been able to create an Olympic Ring for our Hockey Olympians!

How did you go about designing these special pieces? Could you tell us about the final design?

The design for the Olympic Rings had to be based on the required licence design more so than my individual style. The Olympic requirements were that the Australian Olympic Team Logo had to be used in its entirety, but the design was up to me to make it work.

Some of the technical challenges were that the Kookaburras Ring was slightly larger scale than the Hockeyroos Ring, and the rings were all designed in each of the athletes individual finger sizes and their Australian Cap number was to be etched on the inside of the ring.

So, as you are reading this – you can proudly watch the Olympics, and in particular the

hockey as I will be, and know that the 32 Olympic Athletes for our National Hockey side will come home with their ring proudly on their fingers - and hopefully with a shiny medal around their neck also .

Australian Ironman Jeweller since the mid 80’s, and still today Triathlon jewellery is available to purchase online or instore

GOOD LUCK all OLYMPIANS- we are proud of you.

I have in the past supplied Bradman Cricket jewellery to The Bradman Museum in Bowral.

Cricket jewellery is still today available to purchase online or instore.

How did this come about, making special keepsake jewellery for athletes?

My Sports Jewellery collection has thrived on my passion for all sports, and my online collection has over 25 individual sports with a selection of rings/earrings and necklaces in most sports. Over the decades I have been asked for particular sports pieces as most sports peeps just love to wear their sports emblem with pride. I have a full range of sports jewellery and I’m always open to tweak any design to suit the customers needs.

What have been some other stand out designs you really enjoyed making?

Some highlights have been:

I was asked to design and make the Silver Crossed Ski Badge in honour of lives lost in the Thredbo Landslide Disaster, and these became the” Sodegren Foundation” Badge.

I am proud to be able to provide a full range of Pride jewellery, where styles are in silver and 9ct gold and highlighted with natural rainbow gems- the range is available online or instore.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Now, in 2024 you can find me in my Jewellery Studio “Design by Michele” Unit 14/18 Park st Port Macquarie, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 11am – 3pm sales@michelesjewellers.com.au www.michelesjewellers.com,au Design By Michele GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 25

Snug Cats Maree started her ca ery, Snug Cats, a er noticing for herself a lack of options for boarding cats on the mid north coast. She set out to create a 5 star facility where cats would be comfortable, calm and cared for whilst staying away from home.

H

i Maree. Can you tell us a bit about what Snug Cats is and how the concept came about?

When I couldn’t find any suitable accommodation for my cats back in 2014, the idea of building a luxury cattery started to take shape.

It is a real dilemma for many people, to leave your loved family members in the care of others. I searched all of the catteries in the area but found nothing with which I felt comfortable, they were all caged areas and very unappealing. All were attached to kennels, so the constant barking was also an issue.

Visiting Victoria regularly I had seen that the days of caged enclosures in kennels and catteries had changed and that there was now 5 star Pet Accommodation available. I wanted to have this in our area.

It’s a unique place, what was the process of designing the spaces and bringing it all to life like? What are some of the main features you wanted to include?

26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

ar

The initial drawing was pretty much how I had envisioned the cattery as it is today.

I chose the site, measured & taped it out roughly and then looked at different types of sheds. I chose a barn style shed.

I ordered the shed, and the concrete was laid, and it was erected in 2015.

or sneeze on each other. The windows were designed so that they could be opened to house families or cats on long stays.

Cat doors were also installed in each apartment at a 2m height and accessed The cats would from a shelf high on the inside wall to give access be able to to the outside pens. look at one another

but not breathe or Inside, I designed mesh I designed the shed corridors to have a 2 sneeze on each other. to have good airflow door security system.

The windows were through the building Each apartment was laid designed so that they which included louvred with hospital grade vinyl could be opened to windows & Whirlybird flooring. house families or roof vents. I contracted Each apartment was cats on long stays. a plasterer to clad then fitted with shelves the inside walls with and stairs for access to villa-board and build four pens on either side give the cats activities and height, something of the middle section of the shed which was that is important in the psyche of a cat. to be the foyer and a work area at the back.

They were then painted and designed with a Each apartment was 2.4m X 1.6m. They were theme to add character. This was also a way designed to have solid walls with large sliding of differentiating the rooms from one another windows in each wall. The cats would be such as George is in the Zebra Room or Jack able to look at one another but not breathe is in the China Room. It works for me.

The work room consisted of benches, storage space and installation of a washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, air conditioner and sink.

What were your main goals for Snug Cats and the service you provide?

The main focus overall was to make Snug Cats a safe and 5 star luxurious facility which had an easy to clean environment where cats didn’t feel threatened.

It is a stand alone cattery so there is no constant barking environment and most cats settle very quickly into the comfortable air-conditioned environment. Music is played throughout the day which tends to give a calming effect.

Cats are each given an igloo where they can hide and feel safe especially on their initial visit. They have warm snuggly beds and big strong cat trees. They are fed twice daily unless otherwise requested and instructions by their owners are always strictly followed.

Snug Cats prides itself on flexibility and has no strict pickup and drop off times, these are arranged through consultation with the owners.

Because of the litter system used and the attention-to-detail, the cattery has no nasty odours.

What sort of feedback have you had from clients so far?

Absolutely excellent. All of the clients have been very approving and as a result many have returned over and over again. I have clients who live in Sydney who originally booked their 3 cats into Snug Cats four

Cats are each given an igloo where they can hide and feel safe especially on their initial visit. They have warm snuggly beds and big strong cat trees.

Christmases ago when they holidayed at Crescent Head.

They have been back every year and now twice they have travelled overseas but have insisted their cats still come to Snug Cats. They have sent them up on a pet transport twice now.. Many of the clients come from The Hastings, Macleay and Nambucca Valleys.

You have many years of experience with animals, can you share a bit about your background?

I adopted my first rescue cat at the age of 11 and have since adopted many dogs, cats and horses over many years. In my younger days I worked with horses for 3 years on a Thoroughbred Stud Farm and I volunteered at Mornington Peninsula Pound several years ago. I have now worked with cats at Snug Cats for the past 7 years.

Animals have held a huge place in my life and will continue to do so.

Why did you decide to work with boarding cats in particular?

I saw the need for a 5 star facility for cats and pursued this goal. Cats are also much quieter than dogs, a bonus to the neighbours.

I love working with cats and have learnt a lot

over the past 7 years. I enjoy the cats that return regularly and meeting new ones. I have become very fond of a lot of them.

I have had a few very elderly cats stay in their twenties as well as kittens as young as 12 weeks.

I have also had several cats on long stays for up to six months and this facility is perfect for these long stays as the cats have plenty of room and access to the outside. They are kept amused with a variety of toys and tunnels.

Do you have any plans or aspirations for Snug Cats moving into the future?

To date, Snug Cats has never been advertised. Bookings have either come from the website or by word of mouth. I have very supportive businesses in both the Hastings and Macleay Valleys. Local Vets often recommend the cattery to their clients as well as local businesses.

I have in the last 12 months added 3 more apartments, one large enough to house a family of 4 cats.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Visit my website: snugcats.com.au or phone: 0408 671249 People can ring to arrange an inspection of the premises.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 27

Lord Howe Island All Inclusive Packages • Return flights direct from Port Macquarie • 7 nights accommodation at Leanda Lei Apartments • Return island airport transfers • Daily breakfast at Coral Café • Daily evening dinner • 7 days bike hire • 6 x tours From* Departure Dates • 14 - 21 September 2024 ................................ $3759 • 19 - 26 October 2024 .................................... $4039 • 25 January - 1 February 2025....................... $4099 • 15 - 22 February 2025................................... $4099 • 8 - 15 March 2025......................................... $4099

Lord Howe scape to

I S L A N D

World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island with its towering, forested mountains fringed by picture perfect beaches and pristine coral reef, has been called the Hawaii of Australia, visually at least.

B *conditions apply

1800 671 546 102 Horton Street, Port Macquarie oxleytravel.com.au @oxleytravel Call Centre Phone Hours: Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm Saturday, 9am - 3pm (email/appointment only)

Always book through an accredited ATAS (Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme) travel agent.

Oxley Travel Membership Number A11313

28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

ut here in Australia, unlike Hawaii, its peaceful, personalised and guaranteed uncrowded. Visitor numbers are limited to 400, roughly the population of residents. Discovered (1788) and settled formally (1834) by the British out of mainland Australia.

mobile reception doesn’t suit everyone but conversely it is a welcomed bonus for adults seeking an absolute digital detox with nature and activities refocusing one’s experience, particularly children. It’s an irresistible escape from the modern world.

There are 15 recognised beaches – all superb, with Lagoon Beach being the largest and most picturesque, as it enjoys 360 views to the twin peaks of majestic Mt Gower (875m).

Of Australia’s 8,222 islands, Lord Howe has become iconic as a holiday destination for generations of discerning ecotourists and deservedly continues to attract worldwide attention, largely for its untouched natural state.

Its waters hold the highestlatitude coral reef system in the world, and just a charter boat journey from the jetty is the world’s largest sea stack.

Shore and deep-sea fishing, golf, beach-combing, kayaking, snorkelling and lazing in the sun are high on most visitor’s bucket list along with exploring the many natural hiking trails of various grades, many of which wind through Kentia palm forests to reveal some of the most breathtaking views in Australia.

This island is a showcase of sustainable tourism. Having no

Discuss your travel plans with Oxley Travel today.

Community

DEPRESSION ANXIETY RECOVERY PROGRAM

D

epression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and anxiety is the most prevalent mental health disorder. If you or your loved ones are suffering from

depression or anxiety - there is hope! The Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Program offers solutions! This comprehensive 8-week mental health program provides a

• Identify depression and anxiety and their causes

• Achieve peak mental performance

• Enhance energy levels and mood

MONDAY, 26 AUGUST at 10 am or

• Use positive lifestyle choices and right thinking to overcome depression and/or anxiety

WEDNESDAY, 28 AUGUST at 6 pm.

• Make food choices for a more optimal brain function

to 4 NOVEMBER 2024 at Port Macquarie

Come to a FREE information session on

The 8-week program will run on Monday nights at 6 pm starting from 9 SEPTEMBER Adventist Community Centre, 500

wholistic therapeutic approach to manage

• Manage stress without distress

Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie. For more

and/or treat depressive and anxiety

• Live above loss

information, please call 0403 943 378 or go to

symptoms. In this program learn how to:

• Improve brain function

portadventistchurch.org/depression-program

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 29

C A P T U R E D

B Y

J O R D Y

Jordan Relf is a young local photographer who loves to capture candid moments, and document special events and moments in time. WHAT STARTED AS A HOBBY HAS DEVELOPED OVER TIME INTO A PROFESSION, BUT JORDY IS DETERMINED TO ENSURE PHOTOGRAPHY NEVER FEELS LIKE A JOB, combining passion projects with working on small weddings and couples/family sessions.

30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

form of artistic expression.

I only leaned into portrait photography a few years after when I did a photoshoot of some women from my church, and then captured my sister’s and a friend’s engagements. Now I’m in love with doing fun couples’ sessions and small weddings. I’m a full-time Uni student, so the majority of photos I take are snapshots of my day-to-day adventures, travels, surfing expeditions and my gorgeous friends. I like to make sure my photography never feels like a job, so I keep it fun and capture moments that are special to me to allow my creativity to continue to flow.

H

How did you develop your photography skills? Did you take any formal training, or are you self-taught?

a form that everyone could appreciate, it’s my

Continued over....

ey Jordy, Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you discovered your passion for photography?

n Jordaf R

I’m a self-taught photographer, so my skills and eye for beauty have just developed over the years as I’ve taken more and more photos and been inspired by other photographers. I’ve never taken a class, I’m 20 course or any form of years old and have grown I’ve never training, so most of up on a farm west of taken a class, the time I just ask a Wauchope. Photography course or any form of photographer friend was just a hobby for me training, so most of or look my questions at the start, and honestly the time I just ask a up on YouTube if still is just something I there’s something I’m photographer friend do for fun. I first picked trying to figure out. or look my questions up a camera in 2019 on From the beginning, I up on YouTube if a family holiday to New would just play around Zealand, and after that I there’s something I’m with various forms of would just wander around trying to figure out. editing, seeing if it still our farm trying to capture appealed to my eye anything that I thought after changing a certain setting. Most of my was beautiful. My goal with my photography initial work was just trial and error. has always been to capture God’s creation in

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 31

How would you describe your photographic style?

My goal with my photography has always been to capture a special moment in someone’s life, a snap-shot in time which tells a story of the moment it was taken. Whilst shooting weddings, couples and families, I like to step back and help them pretend like I’m not even there so that they can relax and act in a way that is natural to them, rather than me telling them exactly what poses to do. This allows me to create my story-telling, candid, documentary style approach. The best photos I get are when people are just being themselves, when they are genuine and comfortable. I generally keep my editing very natural, as I only like to enhance the original image whilst keeping it true to the setting in which it was taken.

I’ve recently started leaning into videography as well, which has been so fun and exciting to learn. It has all the same elements as photography, yet adds on even more layers to tell a story such as movement, music and tempo. The few weddings I have been lucky enough to film on video have been incredible!

It is such an honour to be a part of someone’s special day and be able to capture the love that is shared between everyone involved. I 32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

then get to have fun behind the scenes, reliving the moment and the excitement of the day to produce a wedding film for the couple.

What has been your most rewarding project to date, and why?

My most rewarding project to date was definitely a complimentary prewedding/engagement shoot that I did with a couple who had booked me in for their wedding. I chose Nothing really to capture their love compares to with the photos, even on my family farm, when you receive the raw images straight amongst my Mum’s feedback from your from my camera. It made beautiful flowers. clients and they tell me realise that you really We took it slow, you how much they can’t rush art. This shoot explored and roamed allowed me to have love the photos, it the paddocks, picked creative freedom, take my always makes me flowers and played time, and get shots that I with the alpacas. appreciate my job really wanted to capture, The beautiful couple, even more. not just ones that were Jess and Jacob, had ‘needed’ or traditionally never had professional taken in couple shoots. photos done before Nothing really compares to when you receive so it was so special to watch them gradually feedback from your clients and they tell you become more relaxed and comfortable as how much they love the photos, it always the session went on. I was super impressed

makes me appreciate my job even more. I can’t wait to capture Jess and Jacob’s wedding now that we are all comfortable with each other.

What’s your personal favourite thing to shoot?

I adore taking photos of my friends, family and people I meet on my travels. I had the privilege of studying a Ministry course through Christian Surfers last year and got to live, surf and travel with over 20 young adults. It was this year that really sparked my love for capturing genuine emotions and adventures. We had the privilege of travelling to Rote Island in Indonesia and I had a great time documenting the culture through my photography.

Where do you see your work evolving in the next few years?

My dream is to shoot mostly small destination weddings and elopements. I love using the nature around me to add depth and emotion to my photos, and I’m honestly not a big fan of large weddings where the whole point is to get photos of every single moment. I prefer to capture raw emotion and genuine love, so elopements and engagements are what I would like to focus on.

I am also super intrigued by the world of film, for both photos and videos. Again, I love that it can capture a moment without the whole focus being on getting the ‘perfect’ photo. I

have recently invested in a Super 8 video film camera so I would love to capture short films with it to create an authentic vintage style video. I have so many dreams to continue capturing the beauty in this world, so I’m just taking it day-by-day and seeing where the Lord takes me.

People are the main focus of your work.

Why are people so important to your work and why do you choose to focus on portraits?

Humans are so intriguing to me. We are all so beautifully crafted in such a unique way.

No two people or relationships are the same.

I thoroughly enjoy getting to know each couple’s little quirks and their expressions of their love to each other. I also just love that my photos, my art, can be looked back on in years

to come as a moment frozen in time, and bring a smile to someone’s face.

If you could have a photoshoot with any subject, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Even though they’re fictional characters, I would have to choose young Donna and Bill from Mamma Mia 2, specifically on Bill’s sailing boat. They are the epitome of young, carefree love and I can imagine it would be so fun to capture their joy.

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

Check out more of my work and send me a message on either: @captured.byjordy Captured By Jordy GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 33

P L AY E R S T H E AT R E P R E S E N T S

Legally

Blonde THE MUSICAL

B

ased on the novel and the hitmovie of the same name, Legally Blonde: The Musical chronicles the journey of the famously perky Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy, UCLA sorority girl who finds her life turned upside down when she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner.

In an effort to prove to Warner that she is more than just some blonde sorority girl, she follows

34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

him to Harvard Law, where she struggles to fit in and do well. Ultimately, she defies expectations and manages to stay true to her delightfully pink personality. Now showing at Players Theatre.

In an economy motel room, an embezzling mayor is supposed to meet with his female accountant. In the room next door, two undercover cops are supposed to catch the meeting on videotape.

Coming up: Unnecessary Farce: Two cops, three crooks, eight doors, no waiting! Unnecessary Farce is an award-winning stage comedy that combines all the elements of classic farce with a contemporary plot.

But there’s some confusion as to who’s in which room, who’s watching the video, who’s taken the money, who’s hired a hit man, and why the accountant keeps taking off her clothes.

Coming soon to Players Theatre.

I

f you love a splashing, crashing, breathtaking race experience there will be plenty of good viewing and activities on offer during an action-packed Regatta Challenge being organised by Camden Haven Dragon Boat Club (CHDBC) on the weekend of 7 and 8 September.

Supported by funding from the NSW Government and Port Macquarie Hastings Council, the CHDBC regatta will be held at Stoney Aqua and Activity Park at Telegraph Point, about 15 minutes north of Port Macquarie.

Up to 15 dragon boat clubs from the Hawkesbury to Grafton have committed to sending crews to compete in 200m sprint races of 20s and 10s crews of Open’s, Mixed and Women’s as well as a Cancer Survivors race and a novelty race around the two small islands at each end of the lake, about 1.4 kilometres in length.

Dragon boating is the fastest growing team sport in Australia and started originally to assist

Let’s go

DRAGON BOAT R AC I N G

women recovering from breast cancer surgery.

CHDBC started in 2008 and now welcomes paddlers of all genders aged between 12 and 90.

According to Anni Yaringa – president of the CHDBC, there will be two full-days of racing.

“Any competing paddler will be on the water many more times than their usual experience at a local regatta,” Anni said. “We will be running a race every 10 minutes over the two days.”

Two workshops will also be on offer, a “drumming clinic” (for paddle timing) and

another focussing on keeping fit for winter paddling with specific exercises for those wishing to improve their paddling technique.

Food and beverage vans will be available over both days and Stoney Park offers on site accommodation from self-contained cabins to free camping, with many water activities for non-paddling friends and families, supervised by life savers. Pets are also welcome on site.

For more information contact Alvena Ferguson on 0401 608 240 or alvenamary@outlook.com

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 35

Community

Spotlight FRIENDS OF MRS YORK’S GARDEN AND THEIR BOND WITH REGIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK

Mrs York’s Garden is a treasured oasis in the heart of Port Macquarie. Overlooking the striking confluence of land and sea, this enchanting garden isn’t just about flowers - it’s a vibrant community hub nurtured by the dedication of local volunteers. But did you know that Mrs York’s Garden has flourished, in part, thanks to the support from Regional Australia Bank’s Community Partnership Program. Let’s dive into this community spotlight story.

D

ianne Davison, President of Friends of Mrs York’s Garden, shares how it all began:

“Very fortunately, I am a Port Macquarie local who grew up seeing Mrs York (Amy Bertha) create the original garden at this headland area, across from her home in Stewart St. Having moved to Port Macquarie with her husband in about 1959, she decided the area was too special to be left to weeds, so she went across daily from about 1963 to remove weeds, terrace banks and create walkways to establish a beautiful ‘Floral Reserve,’ which became a well-known tourist attraction for Port Macquarie.”

Since its humble beginnings, Mrs York’s Garden has undergone remarkable transformations, largely fuelled by the resolve and enthusiasm of the Friends of Mrs York’s Garden volunteer group. They’ve made it a mission to restore and expand this iconic green space, establishing it as an area of outstanding natural beauty and community value.

Asked about the group’s longevity and community contributions, Dianne remarks: “We celebrate our 10-year anniversary next

36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

February and have given a huge amount back to our community by creating beautiful native gardens, picnic shelters, seating, walkways, and stairs. We have created a stunning space for the community to enjoy for recreation, solace, and education.”

“My passion comes from my teaching interests as a Geography teacher and long-term commitment to environmental education, but more strongly from my ties to the original garden created by Mrs York during my upbringing here in Port Macquarie.

Additionally, the close connection to my school years at Port Primary Mrs York’s and Port Macquarie Garden High School with my provides connection granddaughters Glenys from the CBD to the and Melissa has always coastline, promoting fueled my commitment.”

“We have planted over 8,000 littoral rainforest and coastal headland species, mostly endemic to the area, and most importantly, have established a connecting corridor key eco-tourism of endangered littoral What have been some features so important rainforest to the highlights over the to our town and the North Shore and the years? “Highlights tourist industry.

Sea Acres Rainforest have been the close pocket, re-establishing collaboration with habitats for plants and Hibbard Boatbuilders, animals. Recently we have rescued 2 ancient particularly Ron Window, to create the Xanthorrhoea (Grass Trees) from the Pacific wonderful boat-themed structures using local Drive roundabouts and have established them timbers. There is also the progress the garden in the garden. At the same time, Mrs York’s has made over nearly 10 years and the positive Garden provides connection from the CBD feedback from the community and visitors to to the coastline, promoting key eco-tourism the work we are doing. features so important to our town and the Our involvement with the 200-year tourist industry.”

Anniversary Celebrations of PMQ, highlighting Where does your passion come from?

many of the historical sites within and

bordering the garden, was also significant.

The official opening of the viewing platform in 2021 by the NSW Governor and the 4 visits to the garden by Costa Georgiadis from Gardening Australia who has generously given his time to visit and give positive feedback and promote our achievements, are also fond memories.”

What are your services? Is there something people may not be aware you provide? “The garden is a Public Reserve and open at all times. We offer tours to groups and the opportunity for presentations at meetings. Each Wednesday morning during our working bees, we have a trade table of knitted and crocheted goods, butters and relishes, second-hand books, plants and produce, etc., all provided by our volunteers, that are sold to raise funds.”

“We have active and support membership options. Active members can attend working bees each Wednesday from 8 am to 10.30 am, followed by morning tea. Support members cannot attend, but may wish to support in other ways. Membership fees are $2 for joining, $20 for single membership, and $30 for family membership. We also have a Facebook site Friends of Mrs York’s Garden.”

Who are the people you support?

“We support members of the community who wish to volunteer, as well as individuals of all ages and abilities to enjoy the space at Mrs York’s Garden.”

What are the biggest issues for running a community group like this? “The legal and financial requirements and administration of an Incorporated Not-for-Profit Charity are significant challenges. Additionally, applications for grants, project management, and acquittal of successful grant funding also present ongoing hurdles.”

Regional Australia Bank.”

If you had to describe the organisation using three words, what would they be?

“Community. Dedicated. Fun.” What is your favorite part of the local area? “Our coastline - basically the area where the land meets the sea.”

What’s next, and where are you looking to take the organisation in the next few years? “We are looking to enhance options for volunteering and succession planning as we age. Possibly develop a website, collaborate with other volunteer groups for support, and consider other projects to address and options for donations/gifting/ sponsorship for financial support.”

How does Regional Australia Bank assist your community group in achieving your goals? “Regional Australia Bank helps us achieve our goals by offering the opportunity to improve our finances with the Community Partnership Program. This enables us to buy plants, fertilisers, tools and equipment for our planting and maintenance of the garden and to move forward with structures and walkways to enhance the safety and amenity of the garden. The general service and banking support provided by the bank is also a positive in easing operations.”

How can people get involved and show their support? “People can become involved by joining as active or support members.

Financial donations or in-kind support (administration, labour, architect, accountancy, material goods, etc.) are also greatly appreciated. Additionally, you can choose us as your recipient organisation if you bank with

Thanks to Regional Australia Bank’s Community Partnership Program and the work of Friends of Mrs York’s Garden, the garden continues to grow, offering a sanctuary of beauty and tranquillity for all who visit. It’s a powerful example of how community collaboration and support can create lasting, positive change.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 37

Luke Thurgate A R T I S T

I N

R E S I D E N C E

A T

G L A S S H O U S E G A L L E R Y

Image credit: Adore you, 2023, The Drawing Gallery, National art school. Photo by Tim Connolly

Renowned Australian artist and Dobell finalist Luke Thurgate’s work grows from strength to strength. Graduating in 2021 with a Masters degree in Fine Arts from the National Art School, Luke also teaches painting and drawing in Sydney at the same school. As well as an extensive exhibition history, Luke was a finalist in the 2019 Dobell Drawing Prize, the 2020 Tom Bass Figurative Sculpture Prize and the 2022 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award.

L

uke, what a pleasure to speak with you. Your work is indeed powerful and evocative, drawing from your interests in popular culture, catholic iconography and religious overtones and queer historical archives. Tell us a little about yourself as artist.

For a bit of personal context, I grew up just outside of Lismore and I was the little noncatholic kid at a catholic primary school. I grew up with a love-hate relationship with the type of iconography that I was surrounded by. I was deeply seduced by the architecture and the music and the painting and the sculpture at the local country cathedral I experienced in school, but I was also acutely aware I was kind of ‘other’ in that space. I always felt outside of it.

As my interest in art developed I began making connections with artists including Goya, William Blake and Renaissance artists Michelangelo, Raphael etc. I started joining the dots and I thought, these works are all authored by the

38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

catholic church and I love them, but I feel I am an outsider to them, and therefore they’re problematic to me. A lot of the work I’ve been making over the previous few years has been an exploration of that dialogue.

Your multi-disciplinary studio practice explores the construction and deconstruction of identity in relation to masculinity, sexuality, romance and power.

Tell me a little about your perspective here and how these overriding themes are portrayed in your current works.

I moved to Sydney to do my Masters just after COVID and I spent two years diving into a studio project that was very much focused on some of these ideas we are talking about.

The main thesis brought to light was a field of cultural study called monster theory and it centres on the way cultures construct monsters from all the seemingly scary things that are ‘other’ to the culture.

After my masters I continued to explore this in projects like Adore you, a 27 metre long wall drawing made in response to the Van Eyck

brothers’ Ghent Altarpiece. I was interested in remaking that work through the lens of my experience as a gay person, reimagining the paintings as monstrous and queer. Once again the work was an attempt to reconcile my lovehate relationship with the Western canon; something I find deeply inspiring but also kind of threatening.

The exercise of making drawings of this scale on a wall, (and this also plays out in my work for the Dobell Drawing Prize entry) borrows some of the seeming power and authority of these images and their production values, but by making it on a wall with charcoal it becomes entirely vulnerable. It looks big and impressive but it's actually super fragile, something that gets washed away to make space for new things. The act of removal is a big part of the work.

You will be coming to Port Macquarie later this month as the Artist in Residence at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery and we encourage the community to drop in on Friday and Saturday, August 30th and 31st

to see you recreating your inspiring piece 'I believe in you' directly onto the walls of the Gallery. What can we expect from your visit and what do you hope an audience will take away as they watch you creatively at work?

I am really interested in being able to recreate art on the wall. While doing that it will give me the opportunity to connect with people and to have conversations about drawing, as well as some of the ideas we have covered and to really just enter into a bit of an exchange with people and see where the immersive experience goes with audiences.

You will also play a key role in the Dobell Drawing Prize #23, a National Art School touring exhibition, which opens at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery on Friday August 30th. This exhibition will run until November 24th. Tell us You’ll see a a little about what is involved for entrants really broad and what judges look range of materials for in determining being used as well finalists. as more traditional

Good question! The Dobell academic works using in that. Artists are Drawing Prize is one of a charcoal on paper. both using drawing number of major drawing You’ll also see me as a stand alone art in prizes in Australia that working on round 4 their practice but also celebrates contemporary of my own entry! the notion explores drawing practice. The drawing as other ways Dobell celebrates a very of thinking about diverse range of drawing sculpture, or photo media, or performance. practice and people will see this when they Luke, you will conclude your visit to come to the gallery. You’ll see things in the Port Macquarie with a Charcoal Drawing exhibition that feel like they’re teetering on Masterclass at the Gallery on Sunday, the edge of being sculptures. You’ll see a really September 1, an amazing opportunity broad range of materials being used as well as for people to learn technique from you more traditional academic works using charcoal and explore the expressive possibilities on paper. You’ll also see me working on round 4 of charcoal drawing. How do you hope to of my own entry! inspire others through your artistry?

I think the main thing with the major prize is that it really wants to acknowledge and amplify the diversity of drawing practice in Australia and to give audiences an opportunity to share

My life is half studio, half teaching and I deeply love both! I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to engage in both, being able to

make and share in art with audiences. The masterclass will be a way of introducing people to some of the ways I’ve developed technical approaches to charcoal drawing in my work.

I’m also really interested in encouraging people to find a way into their own drawing and developing their own composition, handling materials and testing ideas in an individual way.

My hope is that people who choose to come and hang out with me and complete the masterclass will end up taking away a work that looks entirely their own, and I think that’s really important. There’ll be an introduction with some technical and material knowledge but I’ll also be encouraging people to embrace the experience, not to so much focus on results but using the opportunity to utilise being together and make some drawings.

Thank you Luke.

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E • GREA

UA R I E

•

ID

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-PO RT M

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COVER DISH PRAWN & CHORIZO FETTUCINE WITH BABY SPINACH & CHERRY TOMATOES ... LAURIETON HOTEL

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Drift BAR CAFE RESTAURANT

Drift into comfort this season at Port City Bowling Club’s Drift Restaurant, where culinary delight meets cosy 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.

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

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 FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON EITHER OF THESE BOOKS, /frankies.pmq frankiespmq@gmail.com

BRING THIS AD INTO OUR STORE at 64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, or phone order on 5590 0797.

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focus_contributor.

Palate

THE END OF AN ERA

with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

I

t was a sad moment in May, reading that Tetsuya’s, the absolutely legendary and utterly iconic Sydney restaurant was soon to be closing its doors forever this month.

After an incredible 37 years of business, it is truly the end of an era – a changing of the guard, a potent symbol of generational change within the culinary landscape of not just Sydney, but the face of fine dining itself.

Tetsuya Wakuda is quite simply, a pillar of the Australian dining scene. Born in Hammatsu, a small town in Japan, he arrived in Sydney as a young man. His bio on the restaurant’s website reads ‘Landing in Sydney in 1982 with nothing more than a small suitcase and a love of food, Tetsuya found his first job as a kitchen hand at Fishwives in Surry Hills’.

The rest is of course history. After landing his next job with Tony Bilson, often referred to as ‘the godfather of Australian cuisine’, making sushi at Kinsela’s – Wakuda first learned the classical French cooking skills that later influenced his signature style of marrying French and Japanese cuisines.

This blend of technique and working with fresh, natural ingredients went on to become Tetsuya’s – his first site for the restaurant being a small terrace house in the inner west Sydney suburb

of Rozelle.

Hard work, tenacity, creativity, skill and passion are what goes in to making it in this game and Wakuda certainly has all of those a ributes and then some.

Tetsuya’s went on to become a restaurant of not only Australian, but international acclaim – featuring in the World’s 50 best restaurants from 2002-2013, being a regular ranked fixture in Australian Gourmet Traveller, and Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.

In 2005 Wakuda was awarded an Order of Australia for his outstanding service to the Australian community and in 2016 he was honoured by the Japanese government, being the first internationally based chef to be recognised as a Master of Cuisine.

Such amazing achievements and an incredible career. Wakuda, and others like him are an inspiration to not just all young chefs, but to the entire restaurant industry. Hard work, tenacity, creativity, skill and passion are what goes in to making it in this game and Wakuda certainly has all of those attributes and then some.

So what now, after such an illustrious 37 years?

Possibly the opportunity to hang up the apron and take a much-needed sabbatical. But no,

he’s still busy running his Michelin starred restaurants – one in Singapore, the other in Dubai.

No plans to settle down yet, as he announces on his Insta bio “My life is the restaurant”.

What is truly wonderful about Wakuda is not just his delectable confit ocean trout, but the sense of timelessness he has maintained. In an industry often fraught with fly by night fashions and where in an instant a perfectly acceptable restaurant business can be destroyed by the whims of hipster critics and writers, Wakuda has weathered every storm and remained completely authentic over nearly 40 years of Australian dining history. If you think about what we were eating back in 1989, and how staggeringly different the world is now, it’s utterly mind boggling!

At the end of his Sydney era, last night raising the last glass to the very last service ever, we take a moment to remember, and a moment to imagine a new culinary future – hopefully as utterly brilliant and completely resilient as his.

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VENUE MANAGER MATT OWERS & HEAD CHEF K AT MANSFIELD

C

HEF KAT MANSFIELD What inspired you to become a chef?

When I was younger, I would help my Mum cook dinner. She would show me what to do and let me help her, which developed my skills so I could have dinner ready when she got home from work. She showed me some age old recipes and taught me how to read them. Basically from there onwards, cooking became easy for me, and I found it fun and enjoyable. I didn’t have the passion to be a chef, but it all fell into place and has led to where I am now.

Can you share a memorable dish from your culinary journey?

It probably sounds silly, but for one of our last “restaurant” lessons at Tafe, we created a modern version of a peach cobbler, with icecream we had made ourselves, poached peaches and finished it off with a sugar dome. We had to do this in pairs and I can't remember how many batches of sugar my partner and I had to make, but we got 46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

there in the end, and everyone in our dining room loved it, and our teacher loved our determination to get it right.

What is your approach to cooking?

I enjoy creating happy moments for people.

Whether its with food and their dining experience or my kitchen team. Kitchens can get very stressful and it's always good to have a good culture with your staff where you can get the job done while also having fun. I like to take things day by day and if we have a bad day, there’s always tomorrow to start fresh.

How do you stay creative and innovative in the kitchen?

I reach out to my suppliers to see what specials they have, or if they have any stock they need to move for the week, then I just research. Some things I've never cooked before so I like to increase my knowledge of what's going to work well with that particular thing or even how to cook it. I also like to bounce ideas off my colleagues to see what they think, as sometimes they see things I miss.

What are some essential tools or

ingredients you always have in your kitchen?

I would have to say a pair of tongs and a tea towel. During service they are my main essential tools I use to get the job done. As for ingredients, I would say salt and pepper, and garlic. They are key things to bring an okay dish up to a great dish. Seasoning is key.

Can you describe your signature dish and what makes it special?

This is always a hard question, as I have never really thought to have a “signature dish”.

I enjoy cooking lots of different things and experimenting with new flavours. I will say though, my favourite things to cook/make are desserts, but I haven’t really had the time to properly immerse myself into getting creative with desserts.

Normally some type of protein, 2 or 3 different vegetables and a puree or sauce is my 'go to', as I know that’s what people love.

What advice would you give to aspiring chefs who are just starting out?

Ask as many questions as you can, don’t be

afraid to learn, do your own research, don’t be afraid to ask your chefs for help, we are always here to help. Cooking is hard, it can be the worst at times, but if it is your passion, stick with it and you will see the rewards.

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

Boil your water before cooking eggs, place them in and set a timer (8 minutes for the perfect egg) then take them out and straight into ice water. Also make sure your knives are always sharp.

MATT OWERS How do you source your ingredients, and do you prioritise local or seasonal produce?

I have a good relationship with our suppliers,

Seasonal produce is a big factor when it comes to our menu and the dishes we provide, and where we can, we like to support local.

and they can source us both local and national produce, as well as providing us with advice on what works and what will suit our needs. Seasonal produce is a big factor when it comes to our menu and the dishes we provide, and where we can, we like to support local.

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

Working closely with my team to make sure that all our dishes are of high quality, as well as with our suppliers to ensure that we are getting good quality products to uphold the quality of our food. We are constantly

reviewing our customer service delivery to make sure we are always providing what our customers want.

How do you accommodate dietary

restrictions or preferences for your guests?

Our menu is very accommodating to most dietary restrictions. We have gluten free chips, which is a big thing for a lot of people in our community, as well as many gluten free and vegetarian options available. We are also very accepting of changes to peoples likes and will work with them to provide then the best quality meal to enjoy.

Thanks Guys.

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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

2 X $100 S D GIFT CATRHE LAST AY ON GIVEN AW THE MONTH F O FRIDAY

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

Membership Badge Draw 6.30pm & 8pm*

(Members must be present to win)

Tickets available from 6pm

............................................

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

Courtesy Bus Available Port Macquarie Golf Club Call (02) 6582 0409 www.portmacquariegolf.com.au

2.0

Experience the Bramble 2.0, a modern twist on a classic cocktail that captures the essence of both summer & winter in a glass.

With Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and a delicate rose and blackberry foam, this cocktail is both visually stunning and refreshingly delicious.

Whether you’re at a sophisticated cocktail party or relaxing at home, the Bramble 2.0 is the perfect drink to transport you to a world of floral and fruity delights.

Tasting Nes The Bramble 2.0 opens with a burst of citrusy freshness, thanks to the Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, which brings a unique blend of yuzu and other botanicals. The aroma is invigorating, with bright citrus notes mingling with subtle floral hints from the elderflower liqueur.

The first sip is a delightful balance of tart and sweet. The sharpness of the lemon juice is softened by the raspberry syrup, creating a harmonious blend that dances on the palate. The elderflower liqueur adds a touch of floral elegance, enhancing the cocktail’s complexity without overwhelming the other flavours.

As you continue to enjoy the Bramble 2.0, the rose and blackberry foam provides a silky, fragrant texture that elevates the cocktail’s visual appeal and adds a hint of aromatic romance.

The subtle notes of rose and the sweet-tart blackberry complement the gin’s citrusy character, creating a cocktail that is as delightful to look at as it is to taste.

The Bramble 2.0 finishes with a smooth, lingering sweetness, inviting you to take another sip and immerse yourself in its vibrant flavours. This cocktail is a celebration of balance, beauty, and creativity - a true standout for any occasion.

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50 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Melbourne Cup is fast approaching!

With a day of glitz, glamour, and plenty of fun, this is not one to miss.

Celebrate the race that stops the nation with a three course lunch & drinks package, live music - Pam Hata, and of course, the race on the big screen! Bookings are essential and can be made through our website or by scanning the QR code below. Hurry and reserve your table with friends before the big day!

G o t o w w w. t h e w e s t p o r t c l u b . c o m . a u f o r m o r e i n f o

The Westport Club 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 P | 6588 7201 www.thewestportclub.com.au

www.facebook.com/ thewestportclub www.instagram.com/ thewestportclub Scan for tickets

focus_contributor.

Hands up who here has “had their colours done”?

I’m not sure if it’s just me, but everywhere I turn at the moment I am being shown a snippet of a Colour Consult and it’s got me thinking…

M

y first memory of the power of colour was way back in the 90’s when I was in my mid teens. I had a divine deep mulberry woollen coat and I noticed that whenever I wore it I received compliments. Then there was the first time I bought a red lipstick at the makeup counter in Myer. I clearly remember the lady saying to me, “you need to wear a blue based red” (and being all of 18) I nodded, thanked her and have been wondering if every lipstick I have bought since then has had the “right” base for me.

Fast forward to today and it seems as though with the accessibility of social media, there’s a whole new generation of people appreciating the impact that knowing “your colours” can have on you.

I do believe that most people have a fairly good sense of which colours suit them more than others, but often times that knowledge comes through a lot of trial and error.

I remember very clearly, one day early on in my ownership of Meg + Me, I had come to work but as the day progressed I just didn’t “feel myself”. One of my super stylish customers happened to come in that day, looking fabulous and very put together, and I mentioned to her “I just don’t feel good about myself today”. Ever the diplomat,

she kindly pointed out that the pants I was wearing “weren’t my colour” and even though they were a long way away from my face, the overall effect of wearing them was impacting everything…

Cue stars and lightbulbs flickering around my head! Really? Could wearing a colour that didn’t suit you really impact your entire mood, your entire day? Yes, yes it can, and I have proven it myself.

The concept of a “Seasonal Colour Analysis” gained modern day traction back in 1980, but in actual fact the fascination of the impact of colour dates back centuries at a minimum. Physicists, mathematicians, philosophers and of course artists have devoted countless hours to understanding colour and its relevance and impact on our lives.

One of the key foundations to the principle of a personal colour analysis, is to determine what kind of “undertone” you have. It is widely accepted that there are 3 distinct undertones, cool, warm and neutral. This is an interesting process and often correlates to which precious metal colour you prefer to wear, yellow gold or platinum/white gold or a mixture of both.

Traditional colour consultants will then use a series of techniques to determine which of the 4 main colour seasons you fall into,

summer, winter, autumn or spring. More modern consultants will then dive deeper and potentially split you into a further sub-category of your season using terms such as “deep, light, cool or warm” but diehard colour consultants will stick to the fundamentals.

Once you’ve determined your “season” things become so much easier when it comes to dressing and choosing fashion. But what about when you find a stunning item that fits you like a glove, but it’s not in your “personal colour palette”? Well, diehard analysts will tell you to move on, but there are a couple of tips and tricks to blur the lines so to speak when it comes to wearing an item that isn’t in your season.

Trinny lovers will know that Trinny is very aware of “her colours” but sometimes even she will buy something that sits a little out of her palette. The trick is, to have a failsafe accessory (preferably a scarf or statement necklace) in your best colour to add to the outfit. This ensures that your best colour becomes dominant in your outfit, drawing the eye, while allowing the other items to play a supporting role.

Now I could go on and on about this subject, but I have to go. I’ve been totally influenced.

I’m off to book a Professional Colour Consult!

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K R I S

54 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

H O P E S

GRINSPOON HAVE THEIR NEW ALBUM ‘WHATEVER, WHATEVER'

BEING RELEASED ON THE 9TH AUGUST AND WILL BE HEADING OFF ON A HUGE TOUR ACROSS THE COUNTRY, INCLUDING A SHOW AT FINNIAN'S IRISH TAVERN ON SUNDAY 27TH OCTOBER. WE SPOKE TO DRUMMER KRIS HOPES ABOUT IT AHEAD OF THE SHOW!

H

ey Kris. It's been 12 years since Grinspoon released new music, how does it feel to be back with "Unknown Pretenders" and a new

album?

Awesome! It feels great. We haven't released anything new for a while. We've been doing lots of old stuff for ages and it's just fresh for the band to have some new stuff to play.

What inspired the band to start working on new material after such a long hiatus?

Well, we hadn't really stopped. We'd been touring still, and we were just kind of bored playing the same songs. Although people want to hear our old hits, and that's fun in itself, for us we just wanted to be challenged again with some new material. We had kind of continued to write throughout the last 12 years, and there's probably a couple of tracks on there that are a few years old, but a lot of the stuff is pretty new and current. It's cool and it's given us a new breath of life.

What can fans expect from the new record?

It's probably back to our roots a bit. It's a fairly quick album. There's a lot of riffs on here, which I think is what the majority of our fans like about us. So to have a nice riff based album is exciting, you know.

The upcoming "Whatever, Whenever, Wherever" tour includes 45 dates across the country, including shows in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. What can we expect from these shows?

It’s a massive tour. We haven't done a tour like that for years. Most of the shows we've been doing recently have been festivals and bigger shows. So going back to these venues

and bringing our music back to the people, back to the regional areas, which is kind of where we started. So it's going to be an awesome tour and it is quite massive for us.

Phil has mentioned bringing the show to venues suffering a bit in the regions recently. Why is it important for Grinspoon to support these smaller local venues rather than doing big stadium shows?

down there. Oscar’s got his own sort of home studio, so they welcomed us into the house and we basically hung out with his dog, and almost became part of his family for a month.

Oscar's a nice bloke, he knew what we were trying to achieve and he really added to the record.

With the new album and tour, what are your hopes and expectations for Grinspoon in this new era?

That's where it all started for us. We formed Who knows, the sky’s the limit! We're happy our band in Lismore NSW, and that's a to be back out touring. I don't know what relatively small country will happen from town. When we first here. We will at least started, we got a little be touring for the bit of airplay with Triple next couple of years We just J, but then they kind but who knows from worked our of stopped playing us, there. It's all kind of butts off to get it so we had to go to the out in the open, or happening. That’s regions and regional it will be on August not a great deal of towns and sort of pick the 9th! We’ll see a fan base up from time, but it was how everyone takes there. So I think it's just enough for us to do the new album and right for us to go back we'll move from what we needed. and sort of repay that. there I guess.

Can you share any memorable moments or stories from the recording sessions or rehearsals for the new album?

What message would you like to convey to Grinspoon fans eagerly awaiting the new album and tour?

Well we recorded it with a guy called Oscar Dawson, who is in a band called Holy Holy.

We recorded it down in Rye, which is down on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.

There wasn't too much going on there, we were just pretty much slaves in the studio and got it done. I think it took us about a month, from start to finish. We just worked our butts off to get it happening. That's not a great deal of time, but it was enough for us to do what we needed. We had a ball

Well we’re looking forward to it. It's a pretty awesome album. We're going to enjoy playing it, so bring your jumping shoes… It's a pretty fast paced record, you should have a good time!

How can fans stay updated with the latest news and events from Grinspoon?

Keep track of us on our website grinspoon. com.au and Spotify.

Thanks Kris.

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BAGO MAZE & WINE

WAUCHOPE COUNTRY CLUB

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

The club boasts a magnificent 18 hole championship golf course and 2 excellent bowling greens that are available for social and competition play every day of the week. Our renowned local chef prepares delicious meals for lunch and dinner daily so whatever your flavour, there’s something for everyone at YOUR club, Wauchope Country Club 24 King St, Wauchope. 6585 3020 wauchopecountryclub.com

Top

Wauope PLACES TO

DISCOVER

Craig Williams Photography

TIMBERTOWN

VIBE COFFEE HOUSE

Since 1976 Timbertown has been a living depiction of a sawmiller’s village, demonstrating the struggles and achievements of the Australian timber getters. Timbertown is a recreation to demonstrate everyday life 100 years ago. Step back in time with us!

2325 Oxley Hwy, Wauchope. 6586 1940 timbertown.com.au

Escape the bustle of the street and treat yourself to a steaming cuppa in our peaceful, lush garden space. Grab yourself our famous Eggs Benny Wrap or something sweet from the fridge, pull up a seat and relax.

Shop 3/36 High Street, Wauchope. 6585 2807

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SPECTACULAR BEAUTY

WAUCHOPE CREATIVE HUB

We provide nail, pedicure and manicure, waxing, massage, lash lift, facial, and cosmetic tattoo services. Afterpay available for all services.

We have a team of highly skilled and experienced staff who are dedicated to ensuring the best experience for our customers.

21 High St, Wauchope. 6586 0180 spectacularbeauty.com.au

Wauchope Creative Hub is the largest arts & crafts co-op on the Mid North Coast, showcasing the work of over 35 local artisans!

Shop and Gallery open Mon to Sat 10am -4pm at 87 Cameron Street Wauchope

BILLABONG ZOO

PILATES COLLECTIVE MNC

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

Welcome to our Pilates studio in Wauchope! We’re thrilled to have you join us at Pilates Collective. Whether you’re a Pilates pro or just starting out, our studio is a welcoming space for everyone. Our friendly instructors are here to guide you through workouts that boost strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.

15 High Street, Wauchope. pilatescollectivemnc.com

BEECHWOOD HOTEL

LONG FLAT PUB & BISTRO

The Beechwood Hotel is a traditional country pub set in the picturesque Hastings Hinterland. Why not take the short drive and experience some traditional country hospitality? We have all the modern conveniences you would expect. There’s even a hitching rail out the front for your horse!.

735 Beechwood Rd, Beechwood, 6585 6170 beechwoodhotel.com.au

Take a scenic drive up the Oxley Hwy to Long Flat for a cool drink, a country-style lunch, a swim or fish in the river and the kids can play in the playground. Better still, get away from it all for a few days and camp beside the river in paradise or stay in our very comfortable country pub accommodation.

5014 Oxley Hwy, Long Flat, 6587 4495 longflatpub.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 57

ILLUME beauty & me up

Discover

T A M A R A D O B S O N

IN WAUCHOPE

H

i Tamara!

Congratulations on your new space at Jennifer’s Hair Salon in Wauchope.

How are you feeling about this move?

Thank you! I’m really excited. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with Bree and the talented team at Jennifer’s Hair Salon. They already offer excellent hair, beauty and nail services, and I’m thrilled to extend the range of beauty treatments, massages, and makeup services to the mix.

It sounds like a perfect partnership. Can you tell us more about the range of services Illume Beauty will be providing?

Absolutely. In addition to our well-loved makeup services, we’re offering tanning, waxing, mini manicures, lash and brow services, and massages. I’ve been serving the Hastings area with makeup services for three years now and am excited to expand our offerings. Keep an eye on our socials because we’ll be introducing lash extensions in the next couple of months as well!

Your new space sounds wonderful. Can you describe what it looks like and how accessible it is for all clients?

Our space is designed to be welcoming and comfortable 58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

for everyone. We’ve made sure it’s easily accessible for all, with thoughtful design elements that cater to a variety of needs. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and we have private areas for treatments to ensure privacy and relaxation. Our goal is to make every client feel pampered and special from the moment they enter.

It’s wonderful to hear about your commitment to inclusivity.

Do you have any special promotions coming up?

Yes, we do! For the entire month of August, we’re offering 30-minute neck, shoulder and back massages for just $35. It’s a fantastic way for new clients to try out our massage services and for regular clients to enjoy a little extra relaxation.

That’s an amazing offer.

How can people book an appointment with you?

Booking is simple! You can reach out to us via our social media channels, text us at 0487 628 339, or find us on Fresha. We’re here to make the booking process as easy and convenient as possible. illume_make_up IllumeWauchope

ILLUME

Beauty and Make Up

The Team at Baked Culture are truly what makes this place the thriving business you see today, From the bakers and pastry chefs to the baristas, delivery drivers, front of house team, HR and the behind the scenes team! Everyone is passionate and committed to producing the best quality products and service for our customers both retail and wholesale!

We also pride ourselves in

supporting local farmers and seasonal produce to create what you see in-store.

Our bakery in Wauchope offers the highest quality products using traditional methods.

Visit today, Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get your daily pastry fix!

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L

SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

ast month of winter has already arrived and quite frankly I’m pleased to be heading closer to spring! I have really struggled to stay warm this winter which feels very different to how I normally handle the winters, needless to say we have had a lot more customers in this winter looking for a solution for the cold. Traditionally in our area, the solution people are seeking is generally against the heat. The great news for us is that any solution we can install for the cold or the heat will be useful in both summer and winter.

The benefits will quickly outweigh the costs and don’t forget, the additional protection from the elements that we can help you achieve will also reduce your energy bills, so the decision has far greater outcomes for you for years to come.

The solutions with thermal qualities that we can offer are quite extensive and cover both internal and external applications. However, always bear in mind that stopping the weather before it reaches your glass gives you the most positive effect. The absolute best product for external use is a roller shutter. With foam filled slats and modernised design and colours, the roller shutter will keep out the cold and the heat as well as added benefits such as noise reduction, light elimination, ideal for shift workers or those

60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Producing a strong barrier against the cold and the heat - curtain fabrics can give acoustic qualities and other fabrics offer fire retardancy; heavy curtains are also ideal for light control

with light sensitivity and providing a deterrent for break-ins. Internally the most ideal product is a blockout curtain.

Producing a strong barrier against the cold and the heat, curtain fabrics can give acoustic qualities and other fabrics offer fire retardancy. Heavy curtains are also ideal for light control and the range of fabrics designs we have is amazing, you have to see it to believe it, and we are adding new fabrics to our range every month. If you are still feeling the cold this winter or starting to look ahead for the approaching summer, give us a call or book online to arrange a chat so we can help you decide the best options for your home.

Our quotes are always free and with absolutely no obligation.

Coming up on August 10th is our Paint & Sip. An afternoon of wine and painting in our beautiful sunlit showroom, where else would you want to be on a winter afternoon! Pease get in touch – sales@newtonblinds.com.au to book your spot or a great gift idea for friends or colleagues or a thank you to a customer. A reminder too that every Thursday we have Julie in-store providing free interior design. Please book in to spend

your time on a Thursday to talk all things interiors.

Our staff focus this month is one of our installers Lachy Barker. Lachy has not only grown into a fantastic installer he also became

a Dad in July. This new Dad has been working with us for approximately 18 months. Having arrived to us without any experience in the blinds industry he has taken to his role incredibly quickly and effectively. His professionalism and logic are a real credit to him and the results he achieves speak volumes. He can handle each and every product we offer and if you’ve had him at your home you will know everything he does also comes with an infectious smile and a very calm friendly personality. He is an absolute pleasure to work with and he continually proves to us that he is already one of the best in our industry. We are all overjoyed for him and his partner Chloe on the arrival of their beautiful little girl, he is very smitten and in love with his new role as a Dad. There are a few of us ladies anxiously waiting a cuddle but I guess we’ll have to wait our turn.

Melinda xx

café

A classy

THE BENNETTS STEEL TEAM PROUDLY SERVICING THE MID NORTH COAST SINCE 1991

& ESPRESSO BAR

Nestled in the heart of Wauchope, Classy cafe and Espresso Bar invites you into a haven of refined taste and warm hospitality.

Located amidst the quaint charm of this vibrant town, we pride ourselves on offering a distinctive culinary experience.

At our cafe, every detail is meticulously curated to delight your senses. From the moment you step through our doors, you're greeted with the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans and the inviting ambiance of cosy seating areas.

Our menu is a celebration of local produce featuring expertly brewed coffee, decadent home made cakes and slices, and wholesome brunch

options that cater to every palate.

Our quick and easy lunch options are perfect for those on the go or those who need to grab a quick bite to eat before heading back to the office.

What sets us apart is our commitment to quality and community. Whether you're needing that start of the day coffee or lunch with friends Join us at our cafe in Wauchope, where sophistication meets comfort, and every meal is served with a dash of charm and hospitality.

INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED STEEL PRODUCTS TO ENHANCE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE.

Open Monday - Friday 7am-4pm

PHONE 02 6585 2851 EMAIL steel@bennettsteel.com.au 6 INDUSTRY ST, WAUCHOPE, NSW 2446

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 61

Community A D R A

W A U C H O P E

CONNECT

SOUPERVAN Every Wednesday evening you’ll find a wonderful group of volunteers at Wauchope providing a hot meal and supporting members of our community in need.

W

hat is the primary mission or goal of the ADRA Wauchope Community Connect SouperVan? The primary mission of the ADRA Wauchope Community Connect SouperVan project is to provide for the practical needs of our community in need. This includes: Provision of food. Both a hot meal of soup on the service evening and produce or grocery items to take away to help with the cost of living burden being experienced by many for the rest of the week; Opportunity to educate about simple cheap cooking. Social interaction for those experiencing social isolation, especially the sense of community that has been established.

How did the SouperVan initiative begin, and what motivated it’s creation?

62 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

SouperVan commenced with a few members sleeping bags and other donated items. We of our local churches having noticed an provide tables and chairs and an outdoor increased number of people living rough heater for people to gather and enjoy each following the COVID other’s company. crisis and they banded How frequently together to see what does the SouperVan SouperVan could be done to help. operate, and where operates It commenced with are its typical every Wednesday simple soup and buns locations for service evening between and eventually has delivery?

5:30 and 7:00pm at grown into what it SouperVan operates Bain Park on High provides today. every Wednesday Street opposite Can you describe evening between 5:30 the Post Office in the types of services and 7:00pm at Bain Wauchope. and support the Park on High Street SouperVan offers to opposite the Post Office the community? in Wauchope.

We provide hot soup and buns as the What impact has the SouperVan had on evening meal; fresh produce and grocery the local community since its inception? items as we have them donated or purchased by us; donated bread, pastries and It is serving to unite our community through at times we have pet food, blankets, socks, generous local businesses donating items for

our service evening. Community members are also eager to do what they can to help, providing valuable emotional and social support to people who are struggling to make ends meet and keep a roof over their heads, in addition to practical support for those who no longer have a home. We have worked hard to create an environment where people feel supported and welcome, so a nurturing community atmosphere has evolved.

How does the local community support the SouperVan’s operations?

We have local and regional businesses that donate to us on a regular basis including Al’s Bakehouse; Baked Culture; Wild Culture from Port Macquarie; Homegrown Organics, Masters of fresh from Rolland’s Plains; Asian Aid Give Hope Today Shop has donated tables chairs and a heater along with the ability to access clothing when required.

Hastings Co-op IGA provide fundraising and regular discounts for our purchases; multiple soup cooks from both church and our community; Slade’s Transport provide us with cool storage and freezer storage; Bartlett Farms from Herons Creek provide regular egg donations and Port Macquarie Hastings Council Community Grants Program provided us with a generator.

The $5 Coffee Charity donates money to help with our expenses, along with private donations from various people, Community at 3 from Laurieton via $5 Coffee Charity bring over whatever they have left over from their service operation earlier in the day on Wednesdays; cash donations provided in our donations box and regular donors who supply funds to contribute to our disposable costs. The Pink Ladies from Port Macquarie Base Hospital donate knitted goods; Share the Love Project share their bread from Bakers Delight and local Rotary Clubs Winter Woolies Contributions; generous local community members who bring in various produce items to share; gifts of grocery items and now with our basket at the local IGA people can more readily put some much needed non perishable grocery items in this basket.

Are there partnerships or collaborations with other organisations?

We provide hot soup and buns as the evening meal, fresh produce and grocery items as we have them donated or purchased by us...

Some of these have been mentioned in the previous question but I will mention again some of these collaborations, firstly the generous support from the $5 Coffee Charity and Community at 3 from Laurieton who generously share their goods with us and provide financial donations and The Neighbourhood Centre in Wauchope that facilitates our collection of OzHarvest donations. Hastings Co-op IGA have provided ongoing discounts for our purchases and have supported a major fundraising effort that provided a significant produce supply for us and the Port Macquarie Hastings Council Community Grants Program; Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) sponsored us with a grant that will supply us with our own food trailer in the very near future.

Are there specific ways individuals or businesses can contribute to, or support the SouperVan’s efforts?

Individuals or businesses can contribute to support SouperVan’s efforts by donations of non-perishable food items to the crate at IGA in Wauchope, or bring items to our site

on Wednesdays, or by financial donations in one of 3 ways:

1) If tax deductible receipts are required donations can be made at www.adra.org.au you would then need to select our project by entering Community Connect Wauchope.

If you DO NOT REQUIRE tax deductible receipts, then: 2) You can either donate cash into our cash donation box at the SouperVan on Wednesday evenings or 3) You can direct deposit to our project account. If you require those details please contact Troy or Helen on 0428 832 475 so that we are able to issue our thanks via a thank you card.

Donations help us to meet our running costs such as registration and insurance of our food trailer, regular safety inspections, wear and tear costs such as tyres, topping up our supplies when donations of produce are not adequate for our needs, expanding our services and many other expenses.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 63

64 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

AT LAKE CATHIE PHYSIO + HYDRO WE TREAT A WIDE RANGE OF INJURIES AND CONDITIONS IN OUR NEW, PURPOSE BUILT FACILITIES.

W

e have 4 experienced Physiotherapists who see a wide range of musculoskeletal problems. Our Exercise Physiologist is skilled at tailoring exercise programs to the needs of the individual.

Our popular Hydrotherapy pool hosts group classes, Aquafit, individual treatments and casual visits. In our well equipped gym we run Pilates classes, daily gym classes and individual exercise sessions.

At Lake Cathie Physio + Hydro we prioritize patient centred care by tailoring our treatments to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual.

We believe in active collaboration between the patient and therapist, ensuring every treatment plan is personalised and based on the best available evidence.

Hydrotherapy uses the properties of water to provide a low impact environment for rehabilitation. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, chronic pain, or those recovering from surgery/injury

as it allows for gentle movement with less impact on the body.

Our pool is heated to a lovely 35 degrees making it an ideal place to take those first steps towards recovery. Stairs allow for easy access, and we have a hoist available for those unable to negotiate the steps. We have a host of specialised aquatic exercise equipment to allow a wide range of rehabilitation exercises in the pool. The outlook to the woodland beyond promotes the sense of calm.

At our initial consultation we take a detailed history and perform a thorough examination taking baseline measurements. We use this information to set goals in collaboration with the client.

Throughout treatment we track patient progress by reassessment and feedback. We then modify treatment plans based on the findings to ensure that treatment is effective, ensuring the best possible outcomes for the patient.

YOUR LAKE CATHIE PHYSIO + HYDRO TEAM I graduated from Sydney University in 1998 and have been practicing Physiotherapy ever since... 25.5 years. My entire career has been working in Sports, Private Practice and Orthopaedics, so any painful problem or Sports Injury is something I enjoy treating.

In my time living in the UK I worked with professional cricket teams, and I’m still involved in cricket on the North Coast so that is a passion of mine. I also enjoy managing persistent pain. For me the core things a physio can offer are education, an exercise program and hands on treatment. My number 1 aim for every patient is to have them understand their condition and to educate them in ways they

Jack Hazelgrove Exercise physiologist

I graduated from Newcastle Uni in 2013, and have been working as physio throughout that time, about 11 years.

Barry Spencer Clinical Lead Physiotherapist

can manage their problems and recovery themselves through exercise and day to day activity management.

I have been practicing Physiotherapy for 26 years since graduating in London.

I have been at Lake Cathie Physio + Hydro for almost 10 years now.

I treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions. I am a registered Pinc Cancer Rehabilitation provider, I run Pilates classes, falls prevention programs, and have a particular interest in treating vertigo.

I have been practicing as an Exercise Physiologist for six and a half years, having completed a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation at the University of Canberra.

As an exercise physiologist, I specialize in designing and implementing exercise-based interventions to prevent and manage acute, sub-acute, and chronic medical conditions, injuries, and disabilities. My focus is on improving patients’ physical function, health, and overall quality of life through customized exercise programs, education, and interventions.

Sarah Spencer Physiotherapist

I specialise in seeing clients with a variety of neurological conditions, including people who have had strokes, brain injuries, FND as well as a variety of progressive neurological conditions including MS, Parkinsons, MND and Huntington’s. I have also worked with quite a few clients with Cerebral Palsy and other postural and movement disorders, as well as mix of neurodiverse clients including ASD. I can assist with a variety of manual and exercise based therapies and have done

I graduated from Latrobe Uni in Melbourne in 1987 and have been practicing for 37 years! I initially worked with neurological and orthopaedic clients in a rehabilitation setting, but over the last 25 years have focussed on muscle and joint problems, so backs, necks, shoulders, knees and sports medicine. I offer a variety of manual therapies, exercise prescriptions and now at Lake Cathie, hydrotherapy. It is important to engage with the patient to have common goals in therapy.

Warwick Allen Physiotherapist

particular further training in a variety of approaches for neurological clients including pilates and bobath facilitation.

John Stangherlin Physiotherapist

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Acute and chronic injury management and • Acute and chronic injury management and rehabilitation rehabilitation • Spinal pain management and rehabilitation • Spinal pain management and rehabilitation • Private, Medicare, DVA, CTP and • Private, Medicare, DVA, CTP and Workcover patients Workcover patients • Pilates classes and individual programs • Pilates classes and individual programs • Veterans Affairs exercise groups • Veterans Affairs exercise groups • Balance and falls prevention programs • Balance and falls prevention programs • Pre and post surgery rehabilitation • Pre and post surgery rehabilitation • Post fracture rehabilitation • Post fracture rehabilitation • Western acupuncture and needling • Western acupuncture and drydry needling • Headache treatment • Headache treatment • Assessment and treatment of vertigo and • Assessment and treatment of vertigo and dizziness dizziness • Gym/fi tness classes in our spacious and • Gym/fi tness classes in our spacious and well equipped gym well equipped gym • Cardiopulmonary Rehab/sputum clearance • Cardiopulmonary Rehab/sputum clearance • Diabetic specialised services / Exercise • Diabetic specialised services / Exercise management management • Stroke rehabilitation • Stroke rehabilitation • NDIS Service and tailored Care • NDIS Service and tailored Care • Sports Injury Management • Sports Injury Management • Aquafi t Classes/casual pool sessions • Aquafi t Classes/casual pool sessions

Open Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm Open Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm Lake Cathie Health Complex Lake Cathie Health Complex 1459 Ocean Drive Lake Cathie NSW 2445 1459 Ocean Drive Lake Cathie NSW 2445 P 02 6584 E physioadmin@lcmc.com.au P 02 6584 88 88 99 99 | E |physioadmin@lcmc.com.au

www.lcmc.com.au www.lcmc.com.au

focus_contributor.

Calm Find Your

with BERNIE GINNANE

Counsellor / Meditation Facilitator / Spiritual Life Coach

INTERNATIONAL

‘NEVER GIVE UP DAY’

W

elcome to August!

This month we have;

INTERNATIONAL ‘NEVER GIVE UP DAY’ on 18th August.

This can relate to our lives in so many ways, both professionally and personally.

Never Give Up On: A New Healthy Habit or Self-Care Routine A New Path of Study Better Managing Your Mental Health Being Better Able to Self-Regulate Your Emotions Never Give Up on A Commitment to Yourself Never Give Up on Your Ability to Change Never Give Up on Finding a Healthy Way to Manage the Ups and Downs of Life Never Give Up on Being a Calmer and More Confident You Moving forward each day at a snail’s pace is still movement forward.

Slow and steady progress is better than no progress.

It is okay to take a break and re-set.

It is okay to pause and to adjust your approach to a situation and then …

Take that next step forward.

Find a way.

68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Find a solution.

And Never Give Up. The word: ‘FORTITUDE’ came through for August.

Displaying Courage under adversity or when feeling challenged.

Choosing to be steadfast, determined and consistent.

To Never Give Up. 6 WAYS TO HELP YOU TO ‘NEVER GIVE UP’ 1. A SELF-CARE ROUTINE Create and maintain a personalised and achievable self-care routine for your mental, physical and emotional health.

2. COMMITMENT Make a commitment to yourself to follow your self-care plan.

3. FRIENDLY DISCIPLINE EVERY DAY (Have a listen to my short chat about ‘Friendly Discipline’ on my YouTube channel) shorturl.at/FOpDn, and, ‘Your Power Moment’ short chat shorturl.at/6oT4E 4. CELEBRATE YOUR WINS Keep a track record of your progress.

5. MINDFULNESS & MEDITATION A little each day is better than none and is especially beneficial when you might be feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

Scattering a few moments of pausing into

your day can really help your ability to manage stress, challenging situations, problem solving and be better able to manage your emotions.

PAUSING CAN BE A POWERFUL MOMENT. Follow 3-5 rounds of Your Breath. Maybe extend your exhale a little.

Relax Your Shoulders. Relax Your Jaw. Before you:Enter the office, the room or the meeting.

Before you drive the car. Before you wash your hands…

6. REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT IF NEEDED To a trusted family member, friend, colleague, neighbour, sporting buddy or for professional support.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME Online sessions via Zoom most days.

One-on-one sessions, Tuesdays and Saturdays at The Wellbeing Centre, 7 Garden Crescent, Port Macquarie.

For Counselling, Support with Meditation & Mindfulness Intuitive Guidance, Numerology Readings, Sound and Reiki Healing.

HOW TO CONTACT ME bernie-ginnane-counsellor-spiritual-lifecoach.mailchimpsites.com bernie224@gmail.com Follow me on Facebook and Instagram bernieginnane bernie_ginnane

All-on-4 DENTAL IMPLANTS

for the rehabilitation of

Smile YO U R

N

ot everyone is gifted with a perfect smile from birth. Others find later in life they feel dentally ‘challenged.’ Whatever the case, if you or a loved one is missing teeth, suffering from a broken down smile, have Advanced Gum Disease, chronic tooth pain, toothlessness, or feel their smile is letting them down, it may be time to consider the rehabilitative technology of All-on-4 Dental Implants.

You might be wondering what are All-on -4 Dental Implants? The term All-on-4, also known as All-on-Four and All-in-Four, refers to ‘all teeth’ being supported on four dental implants. This is a highly popular treatment for the total rehabilitation of the smile by replacing teeth on the entire upper or lower jaw (or both). This solution is best suited to patients with badly broken teeth, decayed teeth, who are suffering from toothlessness, or have teeth that are compromised by Advanced Gum Disease.

The All-on-4 treatment is a prosthodontics procedure. It is the replacement of missing teeth, and provides a permanent, dental implant retained device or bridge as a replacement for the entire upper and / or lower set of teeth.

The All-on-4 technique takes advantage of the dense bone that remains in the front part of the upper and lower jaw by placing two implants there and subsequently a further two implants at the back of the jaw.

This is done at an angle to create stability, all the while avoiding the sinus cavities in the upper jaw and the nerve canal in the lower jaw. The four implants support a fixed device or bridge with 10 to 14 teeth. Typically the device or bridge is fitted immediately or within 24 hours of surgery, called loading.

If you are considering an All-on-4 Smile a careful analysis of the bone density, bone structure, existing teeth, bite, occlusion and your ideal dental outcomes needs to be taken into account to design your dental solutions. A detailed evaluation starts with a 3D x-ray and a comprehensive consultation that lasts 40 minutes. Additional digital images may be taken or impressions, then with the use of CAD CAM technology we can design your smile and print mock up All-on-4 models to show you the look, fit and feel of your new All-on-4 Smile.

Planning an All-on-4 Smile may take several appointments to assess, design and approve your new smile because it is a full mouth rehabilitation. The good news is with today’s

design technology you can be a part of the design process to achieve the smile you have always dreamed of.

The cost of the All-on-4 procedures varies based on the dental implants used and the final prosthetic material used. For example acrylic resin teeth over titanium bar vs other prosthetic materials like zirconia. The best way to assess if this treatment is right for you is to book a 3D x-ray and an All-on-4 consultation.

If you or a loved one is considering a smile rehabilitation call the caring team at Sundial Dental 6583 3533 or 6585 2015 to speak to one of our friendly team members and book an All-on-4 Smile Consultation today. www.sundialdental.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 69

H

i Tammy. Can you tell us a bit about the Port Macquarie branch of Make-A-Wish and your role?

Make A T A M M Y

F R A T E R

Tammy Frater is the President of the Port Macquarie branch of Make A Wish, a volunteer role that means she is involved with granting wishes for local kids and teens who are seriously ill. Make A Wish recently granted wishes for two locals, Bronson and Jeremy, whose dreams came true in the form of a new puppy and a trip to the Melbourne Grand Prix!

70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

I have been a volunteer for Make-A-Wish Australia since 2017 and am proud to be the President of the Port Macquarie Volunteer branch. Founded in 2015, our branch currently has ten members who hail from all around the region, from Crescent Head to Hallidays Point, and we are always looking to encourage more volunteers to join us to help make a difference in the lives of sick kids and their families.

You have been involved in granting some wishes for local children and their families, can you talk about some of the wishes you’ve seen granted recently?

Recently our branch was lucky enough to be involved with helping to grant the wish of local 5 year old wish kid Bronson. Bronson was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and wished for his own golden retriever.

Bronson named his new best friend Butter and has started to teach him lots of tricks!

Right Jeremy about to be the official ‘End of Race Flag Waver’ at the Supercars with dad Shayne Below Jeremy (RHS) with brother Parker (LHS)

It’s wonderful In March, local wish to see both the teen and car enthusiast immediate hope and Jeremy had his wish to contribute wherever joy that wishes bring, for an ultimate F1 possible to bring joy and sometimes it’s experience granted to wish kids and their even more special when he visited the families. Volunteering can to see the long-term Melbourne Grand truly bring meaning and Prix. Jeremy, who was positive impacts purpose to your life, and diagnosed with nonthat wishes have on I feel privileged to be able Hodgkin Lymphoma, these kids and their to make a positive impact thinks that the Grand families. on the community.

Prix in Melbourne is the How are children pinnacle of motorsports nominated for Makeracing and during his A-Wish? wish got to meet his favourite, Oscar Piastri.

Children and teens can be nominated through What was the reaction like from these the Make-A-Wish Australia website.” How kids and their families?

To Apply For A Wish & Embark On A Wish It’s wonderful to see both the immediate hope Journey - Make-A-Wish Australia (makeawish. and joy that wishes bring, and sometimes org.au) it’s even more special to see the long-term How do you go about granting wishes? positive impacts that wishes have on these What’s the process like? kids and their families.

Each and every wish is granted through a What does it feel like for you to see kids unique Wish Journey created specifically for being granted these special gifts? the child. The journey includes everything I am sure I speak on behalf of my wonderful from capturing the wish to creating impact team of volunteers when I say that we love that lasts long after the wish has been

granted. Throughout the entire Wish Journey our volunteers work closely with Make-A-Wish Australia HQ to find out a child’s one true wish, help design the wish, build anticipation for the wish and deliver the wish.

Can local community members get involved in this process or contribute in any way?

Yes, there are lots of ways to get involved to help make wishes come true. From becoming a volunteer with the local branch, to getting involved with fundraising activities and events, or by making a tax-deductible donation to Make-A-Wish Australia.

How do you go about fundraising to be able to grant these wishes?

To ensure we can grant the wish of every eligible child, there are a variety of fundraising events and activities for people to take part in, both locally with our branch as well as national Make-A-Wish Australia initiatives too.

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

The best place to get in touch and find out more is though the Make-A-Wish Australia website, makeawish.org.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 71

focus_contributor.

nding PERIOD P OV E RT Y

Womens

Health with

GRAYCE GERKE

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE

A call to action during Share the Dignity’s August Drive, Period Poverty is a term that many might not be familiar with, yet it affects millions of women and girls worldwide, including here in Australia.

I

t refers to the struggle many face in affording menstrual products and maintaining proper menstrual hygiene.

This issue not only impacts physical health but also perpetuates gender inequality, affecting education and employment opportunities for women and girls.

The Reality of Period Poverty In Australia, it is estimated that one in ten women experience period poverty. This can mean choosing between buying food or purchasing menstrual products.

It can mean missing school or work because of a lack of access to sanitary products. For many, it means dealing with shame and stigma surrounding a natural biological process. Lack of access to menstrual products forces some to resort to using makeshift solutions such as toilet paper, socks, or rags, which are not only ineffective but can also lead to infections and other health issues. This is a stark reality for those experiencing homelessness, those fleeing domestic violence, and young girls in disadvantaged communities.

Share the Dignity: Making a Difference Share the Dignity is a remarkable charity 72 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

working tirelessly to end period poverty in Australia.

Their August Drive is a pivotal event that collects sanitary items to distribute to women and girls in need. Through the donation of pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and other essential items, Share the Dignity ensures that no one has to face the indignity of period poverty. The August Drive is a call to action for communities across the nation to come together and support those in need.

Donations can be made at various collection points, including local supermarkets, businesses, and community centres. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant impact.

The Impact of Your Contribution By participating in Share the Dignity’s August Drive, you are directly contributing to the health and dignity of women and girls in your community.

Your donations help keep girls in school, women at work, and provide a sense of normalcy and confidence during their menstrual cycle. Education and awareness are also crucial components in the fight against period poverty. By talking about periods

openly and breaking the stigma, we can create an environment where menstrual health is prioritised and no one feels ashamed of their body.

A Collective Effort for Change Ending period poverty requires a collective effort. It requires us to challenge societal norms and ensure that menstrual health is seen as a basic human right. As we participate in Share the Dignity’s August Drive, let us remember that our actions, no matter how small, contribute to a larger movement towards equality and dignity for all. Together, we can create a future where no woman or girl has to suffer the indignity of period poverty. Let us stand in solidarity and take action this August to support those in need and advocate for lasting change.

Your contribution can make the world of difference for young women locally.

Donation Locations: Physio Collective - MNC 1/64 Lord Street, Port Macquarie Woolworths - Settlement City Woolworths - Lake Cathie Woolworths - Lakewood

PORT MACQUARIE’S LEADING SKIN & COSMETIC CLINIC.

Muse Skin Clinic is a locally owned and operated medical and dermal clinic. We have an immense love for treatments that produce the finest results while incurring the least amount of stress or discomfort. Whether you are coming to us for skin love, self care or subtle cosmetic enhancements, we want you to leave feeling calm and restored.

Subtle natural enhancements. We believe that skin deserves to be maintained, nourished, and loved at Muse Skin Clinic. We focus on gently restoring and displaying your skin's natural radiance at our charming Port Macquarie clinic, helping you to feel refreshed, relaxed and more confident.

Far from being cold or clinical, our salon is a calm refuge where you'll be in the hands of knowledgeable and qualified professionals who take the time to get to know you personally. We're here to help you achieve your skin goals, whether you want to smooth out worry lines, define your greatest features, or recover a youthful glow.

WAYS TO G E T I N TO U C H

OUR SERVI CES Eminence Ritual Facials Medical grade peels Fusion Mesotherapy Needle-free Mesotherapy LED light therapy Lashes and brows Cosmetic tattooing Massage Cosmetic Aesthetics Wrinkle relaxant treatment Cheek enhancement Subtle lip enhancement Plasma lift IPL skin treatments Skin needling Cosmelan depigmentation

0493 969 315 | museskinclinic.com.au Follow us on @muse.skin.clinic GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 73

Lyn LOVERING

Lyn Lovering is part of a team of 6 women who make up the Golden Women’s Masters Outrigger Crew, a team that has been selected to represent Australia at the World Sprints in Hilo, Hawaii this month!

GOLDEN MASTERS WOMEN’S CREW OUTRIGGERS

that led to your qualification?

H

i Lyn, can you briefly introduce yourself and share how you first got involved in outrigger canoeing?

I live in Telegraph Point and work as a Nurse at the Base Hospital.

I have always been involved in team and individual sports all my life. I was introduced to outrigging by Karen, our coach who had been paddling since 2009. Kerry joined the club in 2004 when her husband Kevin, and another fellow member started the Port Macquarie Maroro Outrigger Canoe Club.

Dee joined in 2016 from dragon boating, Jane made a return after a long absence from paddling and Glenys is our newest recruit from dragon boating, looking for a new and exciting challenge.

How did the Golden Masters Women’s Crew come together, and what inspired

74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

We have worked very hard over the past few years, travelling within NSW and Queensland to events to get competition practice. Pan Pacs 2022 whetted our appetite for more competition.

We enjoy training We entered the you to start hard to achieve Australian Sprint Titles paddling together? the same goals, know in 2022 to see what The 6 members of our each other’s strengths we could achieve. We crew came together and not so strong areas came home with 2 because we are all and therefore we all bronze medals for the in the same age work around these Golden Master Women category who share things and help each (60 years plus) V6 1000 a love of the sport of other out. metre turns race and outrigging, and we the 500 metre sprint wanted to push our race. This was the first limits when attending time this had been achieved by any crew in regattas. We enjoy training hard to achieve the same goals, know each other’s strengths our club’s history, and we were ecstatic!! and not so strong areas and therefore we all work around these things and help each other out. The more you paddle together as a team, the more you trust each other to do their job in the canoe.

We returned in 2023, made the finals in each event and finished 4th in both finals.

We were very happy with our results as we had some strong competition with 13 crews in our age group.

Can you walk us through the process of qualifying for the World Sprint Titles?

What were some of the key moments

How does it feel to be the first crew from Port Macquarie to qualify for such a prestigious event?

Fantastic! We feel very privileged and honoured and it is amazing to achieve this success. We have worked consistently as one team for a few years and it shows how commitment and dedicated training on and off the water pays off.

the key, CONSISTENCY!

What does your training routine look like, and how have you been preparing specifically for the World Sprint Titles?

It is a massive honour and a privilege for us.

We are all very proud to call the Port Macquarie area home. We are all very excited and intend to share our Aussie enthusiasm with those in Hawaii.

We train 3 mornings a week from 0600hrs until 0700hr - 0730hrs at this stage, leading up to 4 mornings as we get closer to the event. On Saturday mornings we train from 0600 hrs until 0800hrs.

We do single craft sprint training as much as we can to improve our aerobic fitness.

We also have our individual off water training such as gym work, swimming laps in a magnesium heated pool and incorporating aqua aerobics strength training in these sessions.

We follow a high-performance training plan which is specifically designed for sprint work.

What keeps each of you motivated and inspired to compete at such a high level, especially being over 60 ?

Our crew keeps us motivated and inspired.

We are all like minded competitive paddlers who train very hard at every session and always turn up for training. Knowing we are all getting out of a warm bed on these frosty mornings to train to do our best in Hawaii, motivates us to do the same. That’s

What does it mean to you to represent both Port Macquarie and Australia on the world stage?

We also have our individual off water training such as gym work, swimming laps in a magnesium heated pool and incorporating aqua aerobics strength training in these sessions.

GMM (Golden Master Men) crew from the Brisbane area, known as Ronin (Warrior without a master).

Looking forward to this challenge!

What are you most looking forward to about competing in the World Sprint Titles in Hilo, Hawaii?

After that we will be having team celebrations and a bit of a rest when we return to Port Macquarie.

Soaking up the atmosphere at a world event, especially the Opening Ceremony, being able to absorb the true culture and traditions of outrigging and meeting other paddlers who have been on the same journey we have, to be part of this competition.

How can the Port Macquarie community get behind you and follow your journey?

Beyond the World Sprint Titles, do you have any future goals or aspirations as a team?

After the Sprint Titles, we will compete in the largest distance race, the Queen Lili’uokalani Outrigger Race in Kona. It is 29 km in distance from Honaunau Bay and Kailua Bay. We are pairing with a

We would love Port Macquarie to give us a cheer and cooee as they see us in our sky blue canoe as they walk on the boardwalk on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday mornings.

We would also like to thank d’Albora Marinas who are the owners of various marinas across Australia, including the Westport Marina. They have been very supportive and encouraging of us and without their support our journey would have been a lot harder.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 75

GIVE YOUR GROWING CHILD A HEAD START TO A BEAUTIFUL SMILE

Littlea Smiles treatment deserve

DESIGNED JUST FOR THEM

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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A head start with Invisalign First clear aligners CAN SET YOUR CHILD’S SMILE UP FOR SUCCESS WITH A GENTLE EXPERIENCE that won’t disrupt the daily life of being a child.

T

ake the first step known as Phase 1 treatment. At today towards this stage, doctors can see issues a better smile. that may need early treatment to Invisalign First clear address a developing problem. aligner treatment is The goal of phase 1 treatment designed for predictable results is to develop young jaws and/or and a positive experience while arches to make room for existing addressing teeth and the unique for incoming As a child needs of permanent grows, their growing teeth. smile grows with children.

Treatment them. And even It can fix a can prevent broad range pre-existing with baby teeth, of teeth bite issues it may be time for straightening from getting children aged 6 to 10 issues, worse as well to start orthodontic including as correcting treatment. crowding, existing teethspacing and straightening narrow dental arches. conditions, improving the Starting little shifts today goes a appearance of a growing child's long way. As a child grows, their smile and can make phase 2 smile grows with them. And even treatment shorter and easier. with baby teeth, it may be time Talk to Port Macquarie for children aged 6 to 10 to start Orthodontics today to discuss orthodontic treatment. This is your child’s oral health needs.

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

UN D E RSTAN DI N G L E D THE R A PY

W

hat is LED Therapy?

How does it work?

LED stands for “Light Emitting Diode.”

LEDs emit various wavelengths of light that induce specific changes in the skin by energising cells to function more effectively. At PMAC we use a variety of light colours to treat injuries and skin conditions. We call it Heallite.

It’s a painless treatment that involves lying down peacefully under our light machine that covers the face, or other areas if there’s injury or surgery involved.

What are the common uses of LED therapy in skin? Oh so many things! LED therapy is versatile and used for many dermatological applications, including Acne - we use the blue light which targets the bacteria causing acne breakouts. It’s a great treatment for young people who aren’t ready for stronger skin treatments, or don’t need them. Wound/ Scar Healing - Beneficial for post-burn or post-surgery, it accelerates healing and reduces inflammation. It even works for sprained muscles! We use infrared light wave length to improve cellular repair. General Skin Rejuvenation - Red light enhances skin quality, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and improves overall texture.Inflammation Reduction (rosacea) - Infrared light at 830nm calms irritated or inflamed skin, ideal for sensitive skin or inflammatory conditions.

What are the benefits of LED therapy? Oh it’s great and there are lots of benefits! For instance it has no downtime, it’s pain free, it improves your skin and you get an immediate glow after having a treatment. We encourage patients to have an LED added on to their skin treatments to boost their results.

Is LED therapy as effective as people say? Yes! Despite being gentle and pain-free, LED therapy provides substantial benefits.

It can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other procedures to enhance outcomes. The core advantage is the improved functioning of skin cells, leading to healthier, more youthful skin.

Is LED therapy a good option for someone new to dermatological treatments?

Absolutely! LED therapy is an excellent introductory treatment. It offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to enhance skin health. If you have never had any dermatological treatments before and are interested in starting, LED therapy is a fantastic way to begin your journey to healthier, more radiant skin.

treatments, particuarly if you do a course of them.

What are the best skin treatments to add LED to? At my clinic we do love adding LED on to LOTS of treatments because it really does boost patients results and helps them get bang for their buck. Probably my favourite to add it to is our hair restore treatments. The LED helps the hair follicles to grow, and also after a gentle chemical peel.

What about the home LED masks? Home LED masks are generally safe for use. While effective, results can take weeks of consistent use, and the quality of devices can vary.

Safety is a key advantage, with minimal risk if used correctly, but potential issues like eye damage highlight the importance of following instructions and making sure you’re buying a quality one. Individual responses differ, so outcomes may not be uniform. For severe skin conditions, professional consultation with a doctor is recommended to ensure appropriate and effective treatment, and to make sure you’re not throwing your money away!.

0421 253 025.

We offer packages of LED at our clinic and patients love them! You can buy a series, save money and boost your skin at the same time.

What’s a common misconception about LED therapy? I think there’s a misconception that you’ll see immediate results, when in reality its best results come after several GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 77

C AT H E R I N E CORNISH

H L L A B T O FO P O R T

U A R I E M A C Q

CLUB

NIVERSA 50TH AN

ow long have you been involved with Port Macquarie Football Club, and in what capacities?

I have been involved with Port Macquarie FC for around 15 years as a player, coach and committee member.

The club is celebrating 50 years this year!

Can you share what you know about the club’s beginnings?

RY

The club was founded in 1974 as Port Macquarie RSL with Mr R J Kelly (known as Dick Kelly) as the club president. Port Macquarie FC was a founding member of the Hastings Soccer Association when the inaugural meeting was held on the 5th February 1975.

How has the club evolved over the past 50 years in terms of facilities, membership, and community involvement?

Catherine Cornish has been a part of Port Macquarie Football club for around 15 years, and she, along with the rest of the club, are excited to be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! There will be a dinner and a veterans match, with old club members taking the field for a friendly game, on the 24th August to mark the milestone and the club invites the community to get involved.

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The club has recently moved our home ground from Tuffins Lane and Macquarie Park and have been located at Wayne Richards Park for the past several years. We have slowly been growing over the years and it’s always great to see players returning each year and new faces joining.

What have been some of the most memorable moments for you over the time you’ve been involved with the club?

Over the years I’ve made lots of friends as both a player and a volunteer. One of the most memorable moments though would be being part of the Women’s team that won the Grand Final in 2010!

How has support and involvement from the Port Macquarie community contributed to the club’s success and longevity?

for the next 50 years?

We are proud of our family friendly, supportive environment. Our future is always dependent on players and volunteers of all ages and abilities. We look forward to a future filled with grassroots football, from a child in the Under 6’s, learning the game for the first time, to our experienced Women or Men’s teams who can come and enjoy a great sport, surrounded by friends and family, competing in a great competition here in beautiful Port Macquarie.

We are looking forward to the next 50 years!

We have had key volunteers over the years that set the foundations of this great club, without them we couldn’t have kept the lights on. From those who cooked the thousands of sausages on a cold Saturday morning to those who petitioned council for facility upgrades and ground repairs and maintenance over the years. The list is endless. You just have to look at our President’ List and award winners on our website to see just Thank you to how many people have everyone for contributed. We have your support also had very generous throughout the last business sponsors over 50 years. It would the years who have be great to see helped us ensure we everyone out at our had the equipment 50th Anniversary we needed to support celebrations. our players. We are so grateful to each and every one of them. Our celebration of 50 years couldn’t have happened without all of them, since 1974!

What message would you like to convey to current and past members and supporters who have been with the club throughout these 50 years?

Thank you to everyone for your support throughout the last 50 years. It would be great to see everyone out at our 50th Anniversary celebrations.

How can we get involved or get in touch with the club?

We can be contacted via email at secretary@portmacquariefc.com

How will the club be celebrating this 50 year milestone?

We are holding a celebration on the 24th August with a dinner and also a veterans’ match with old club members taking the field for a friendly game.

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focus_interview

Mia Szumowski is a 16 year old local athlete who has been selected to compete in the World Junior Sanda Championships, which will be held in Brunei this September. She is the only female among the three athletes chosen to represent Australia, a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion she’s poured into her training.

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i Mia, can you share how you first got involved in Sanda and what drew you to this particular sport?

I began my martial arts journey at the age of three in Inverell, NSW. My dedication and passion for karate led me to earn my first black belt by the age of nine. In 2019, I made a significant move to Kumiai Ryu in Port Macquarie, which opened new doors in my martial arts training.

Since then, I earned a second first-degree black belt in karate and started exploring other styles offered at my dojo, such as Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA. Among all these styles, Sanda stood out to me. The thrill of heavy contact at a fast pace, coupled with the freedom to push and throw your opponent to the ground, captivated me. Sanda felt unique, blending the speed and precision of karate, the rhythmic movements of Muay Thai, and the intensity of MMA. It truly is the perfect 80 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

combination and has become my favourite.

You have recently been selected to compete in the World Junior Sanda Championships in Brunei, congratulations!

How did you find out that you had been selected, and what was your reaction?

I originally received an email with my selection letter from the Australian Head Coach. I remember my first thoughts being, “Holy crap, wait, what did I do?” I was in disbelief for the first few hours after receiving that letter, unable to fully grasp the reality of the situation. It felt surreal, like a dream I wasn’t quite ready to believe. The excitement from my family and friends was palpable, especially from my Nan. She has always been one of my biggest supporters, and seeing her so thrilled about my achievement made the moment even more special. Her joy and pride were infectious, and it made the accomplishment feel even more significant. Knowing that I had made my family proud and had their unwavering support made

the journey to the championships all the more meaningful.

Can you walk us through your training routine as you prepare for the competition?

A typical week of training for me is pretty flat out. I train 6 days a week, 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon. I am personally coached by an amazing team of instructors at Kumiai Ryu as well as the Australian Coach in Lithgow. After multiple personal sessions, hours of strength and weight training, conditioning, cardio, and sparring, Sundays are my favourite day to enjoy a nice warm ice bath to recover!

What are you most looking forward to about competing in the World Junior Sanda Championships?

I am most looking forward to the opportunity to pursue my childhood dream of travelling abroad to represent my country. It’s something I’ve imagined and worked towards my whole

life, and now that it’s becoming a reality, I work, dedication, and passion I’ve poured into couldn’t be more excited. Being selected to my training. I hope to convey to other girls that join Team Australia fills me with pride and they can achieve anything they set their minds a sense of accomplishment that words can to, regardless of the obstacles they may face. hardly describe. One of the things I’m eagerly Sports like Sanda can be empowering, offering anticipating is immersing myself in the culture not only physical strength but also confidence, and dynamics of Brunei. Experiencing a new discipline, and a sense of community. I want country’s traditions, cuisine, and way of life to inspire other girls to pursue their passions will be enriching and eye-opening. It’s not just fearlessly and to know that they, too, can break about competing but also about learning and barriers and achieve greatness in any sport they appreciating different perspectives and lifestyles. choose.

This opportunity represents years of training, Who has been your biggest support sacrifice, and determination. It’s a moment throughout your I’ve dreamt about journey, and how have and worked towards they helped you reach tirelessly, with the Representing this point? unwavering support of Team Australia My Mum has been my family, friends, and is a privilege and an my biggest support coaches. Representing honour that I will throughout my journey.

Team Australia is a cherish deeply. I can’t She has always been privilege and an honour wait to step onto the there, encouraging me that I will cherish deeply. international stage, every step of the way.

I can’t wait to step onto proudly wearing the From driving me to the international stage, green and gold, and countless training sessions proudly wearing the giving my all to make and competitions to being green and gold, and my country proud. giving my all to make my my biggest cheerleader country proud. during challenging times.

Her unwavering belief in How does it feel to me has been a constant source of strength and be the only female athlete representing motivation, and her sacrifices and dedication Australia at the championships? What have played a crucial role in helping me reach message do you hope to convey to other this point in my career. Without her support, I girls who may be interested in pursuing wouldn’t be where I am today. sports like Sanda?

It’s an incredible honour to be the only female athlete representing Australia at the championships. It’s a testament to the hard

Beyond the World Junior Sanda Championships, what are your future goals in the sport of Sanda?

My future goals in the sport of Sanda include moving on to the adult games in the coming years. Competing at this higher level will be an incredible challenge and an opportunity to further hone my skills. I’m eager to test myself against more experienced athletes and continue pushing my limits. In addition to progressing in Sanda, I also aspire to further explore other martial arts styles. There’s so much to learn from each discipline, and I believe that broadening my training will make me a more versatile and well-rounded martial artist. Whether it’s deepening my knowledge in Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, or venturing into entirely new styles, I’m excited about the endless possibilities for growth and development. This journey is about constant growth and pushing my limits.

Every challenge and every new experience contributes to my evolution as an athlete and as a person. I’m excited to see where this path takes me next, knowing that each step forward is an opportunity to learn, improve, and achieve new heights.

How can the Port Macquarie community get behind you and support you in your journey, and what does their support mean to you?

As you could imagine a trip of this nature is quite expensive and any local support would be truly appreciated, as well as any media attention received. I am additionally seeking local sponsorships, alongside donations to an upcoming raffle I will be holding. I will constantly be posting and updating with fundraising on my Facebook page, so make sure to keep an eye out!

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SHARKS FIJI TOUR R E B E C C A

P O R T

H I L L

M A C Q U A R I E

The Port Macquarie Sharks U16’s team are embarking on a tour of Fiji, participating in not only athletic development, but cultural exchanges and community service. We spoke to Team Manager Rebecca Hill to find out what they have planned and how they worked as a team to bring this trip to fruition.

A

s the oldest junior rugby league club on the Mid North Coast, can you share a bit about the Port Macquarie Sharks and their history?

The Port Macquarie Sharks hold a distinguished place in the sporting community as the oldest junior rugby league club on the Mid North Coast. Established in the early 1960’s, the club has a rich history that spans several decades, marked by dedication to fostering young talent and promoting the values of teamwork, and sportsmanship.

What inspired the idea of taking the U16s team on an end-of-season tour to Fiji, and how was the plan developed?

The inspiration came about unexpectedly during a seniors’ football match following our presentation in 2023. It was there that a group of us started discussing the idea.

We wanted to provide the players with an experience that went beyond the usual season 82 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

activities. Fiji, with its vibrant rugby culture seemed like the perfect destination for this adventure.

and community engagements in Fiji?

The tour to Fiji is packed with a variety of activities designed to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for our team.

From that initial conversation, we began to develop the plan. We Our players will participate reached out to Peteros in daily training sessions to The experience Sports Tours led by maintain their fitness and rugby legend Petero has taught our sharpen their skills. These Civonieva to organize players valuable sessions will be held at accommodation, local facilities and will train lessons in teamwork, training facilities, and with Fijian coaches and perseverance, and match schedules. The players. The Fijian NRL has the power of local rugby community recently sent us a special community, and we in Fiji has been invitation to play their Fiji are excited to see all incredibly supportive, Development Squad. our hard work pay which reinforced our Playing against different off as we prepare for decision to move opponents will help our the tour. forward with the tour. team to adapt to various Fundraising efforts and playing styles and improve securing sponsorships their game. The matches were essential in bringing this plan to life. are also a great opportunity for cultural Can you elaborate on the activities planned exchange, as players from both sides will for the tour, including training, matches, interact and learn from each other.

A significant part of our tour involves giving back to the local community. They have planned several community service projects volunteering, which include visits to a local school and orphanage where our players will engage with the children, share their experiences, and participate in educational and sports activities.

To ensure our players fully immerse themselves in the Fijian culture, they will participate in various cultural activities. These include traditional Fijian ceremonies and visiting a village deep in Fiji’s interior. We believe that experiencing the local culture first-hand will be a valuable and memorable part of the tour for our team.

Overall, the tour is designed to be a holistic experience that combines athletic development, cultural exchange, and community service.

We are confident that our players will return home not only as better athletes but also as more well-rounded individuals with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

How has the fundraising journey been since it started in December 2023, and what have been some of the initiatives the team have worked on?

Our goal was ambitious, but the response and support from the community has been incredible.

We took part in a series of community events, including BBQ fundraisers at Bunnings, The Hastings Oyster Festival, local markets, Colour Frenzy, Ironman, Krispy Cremes and meat raffles held at The Local and Fernhill Tavern.

These events not only helped us raise funds but also brought the community together. Our players and their families were actively involved, making these events fun and engaging for everyone.

We also launched an online raffle to reach a wider audience with the chance to win a Jetski!

Utilising social media platforms, we shared our story, goals, and the impact of the tour. The online community responded positively, with contributions coming in from friends, family, and supporters from all over.

One of our most successful initiatives was organising a trivia and auction night at Panthers Sports Club. We secured a variety of

exciting prizes and auction items, including sports memorabilia, gift vouchers, and experiences donated by local businesses. The event was a huge hit, drawing in a large crowd and raising significant funds for the tour.

Special thanks to our major sponsors Port Macquarie Roofing, Harelec and Billabong Zoo. These contributions have been vital in reaching our fundraising goals and making the tour to Fiji possible.

The fundraising journey has been a true team effort, with players, parents, and staff all contributing their time and energy. It’s been amazing to see the community rally behind us, and we are deeply grateful for everyone’s support. The experience has taught our players valuable lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community, and we are excited to see all our hard work pay off as we prepare for the tour.

How can we show the team our support and follow their journey?

How has the community supported the U16s team’s fundraising efforts, and what impact has this had on the team and the club?

The community’s support has had a huge positive impact on the U16s team. The players have felt a tremendous sense of encouragement and motivation, knowing that so many people believe in them and are invested in their success.

Community members have consistently shown up to support our events and have shown tremendous generosity. Many local businesses and corporations were eager to support our cause, offering financial contributions and raffle prizes for the team. Their generosity has been a crucial part of our fundraising success.

Firstly, staying connected through social media. We will be regularly posting updates, photos, and videos on our PMQ Sharks U16s Fiji Tour 2024 social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram.

Another excellent way to support the team is by attending their fundraising events and activities. Whether it’s a BBQ fundraiser, meat raffles at the Fernhill Tavern every Friday night between 4pm and 6.30pm, or purchasing a ticket in our major raffle for the chance to win a Jet Ski. You can also contribute directly. Just contact us via our Facebook or Instagram pages.

Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and go a long way in helping the team reach their fundraising goals.

PMQ JUNIOR SHARKS U16 FIJI FOOTY FUNDRAISER Tickets

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focus_contributor.

UPDATE with RACHEL LEMAN

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

F U E L L I N G This month we will discuss how the right nutrition can significantly impact your workout performance and recovery. Knowing what to eat, when to eat, and why certain foods benefit your body can help you get the most out of your fitness routine. Most needs can be met with easily available, real food - no expensive supplements required. Eating the right foods before your workout ensures you have enough energy to perform at your best.

Aim to eat a balanced snack or meal 1-3 hours before exercising. This allows your body to digest and absorb the nutrients, providing you with the necessary energy and preventing any discomfort during your workout.

After your workout your body needs to recover and rebuild, so consuming the right nutrients up to two hours post-exercise helps replenish glycogen stores, repair muscle fibres, and reduce muscle soreness.

Pre-Workout Nutrition - Carbohydrates Why: Carbohydrates are your body’s primary source of energy. They provide the necessary fuel for your muscles to perform effectively.

Examples: Whole grain toast, oatmeal, fruit, sweet potatoes.

Protein: Why: Protein helps to prepare your muscles for the stress of exercise and prevents muscle breakdown during your workout.

Examples: Greek yogurt, eggs, lean meats, protein shakes.

Healthy Fats: Why: While fats take longer to digest, they provide a sustained source of energy, particularly for longer workouts.

Examples: Avocado, nuts, seeds, nut butters.

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YO U R

F I T N E S S

Hydration: Why: Staying hydrated ensures that your muscles can work efficiently and helps to prevent fatigue.

Examples: Water, coconut water, electrolyte drinks.

Example Pre-Workout Meals: Greek yoghurt with berries and a drizzle of honey; a banana with a tablespoon of almond butter, or whole grain toast topped with avocado and a sprinkle of salt.

Post-Workout Nutrition - Protein: Why: Consuming protein after a workout helps repair and rebuild muscle fibres that were broken down during exercise.

Examples: Protein shakes, chicken breast, cottage cheese, fish.

Carbohydrates: Why: Carbohydrates replenish glycogen stores in your muscles, aiding in recovery and preparing your body for the next workout.

Examples: Quinoa, brown rice, fruits, whole grain bread.

Healthy Fats: Why: Healthy fats help support overall recovery and help with inflammation.

Examples: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil.

Hydration: Why: Rehydration is crucial to replace fluids lost through sweat and maintain optimal muscle function. Examples: Water, electrolyte drinks, herbal teas.

Example Post-Workout Meals: Grilled chicken with quinoa and a side of roasted vegetables, a smoothie made with

protein powder, spinach, banana, and almond milk (yum), or cottage cheese topped with pineapple and a handful of almonds.

While supplements can be convenient, your nutritional needs can be met with whole, natural foods. They provide a variety of nutrients that work together to support your health and fitness goals. They are often more affordable and accessible than supplements.

Tailoring Your Nutrition to Your Workouts Light Workouts: For a light workout or a quick session, a small snack like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts can provide the necessary energy without weighing you down.

Moderate Workouts: For moderate workouts, combine carbs and protein in your pre and post workout snacks to sustain energy levels and aid in recovery.

Intense Workouts: Focus on meals that include all macronutrients (carbs, protein, fats) to ensure sustained energy and thorough recovery.

At Miss Motivator, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals through our unique approach and supportive community. Remember, proper nutrition is a key component of feeling strong, energised, and happy. By focusing on real, whole foods, you can meet your nutritional needs without relying on expensive supplements.

Stay strong and warm and let’s chat again in Spring!

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M E N I N B US I N E S S / A S P EC I A L FO C US F E AT U R E

W A T E R S

M A N A G I N G P C

D I R E C T O R

P I T S T O P

P

roudly local for 45 years and recently blessed with the birth of our son, Flynn, I thrive on adventure and currently, I’m pursuing my pilot’s license to push my limits. Professionally, I've had the privilege of nurturing a team of technology specialists in Port Macquarie for the past 25 years. Combining my backgrounds in electronics and IT with a passion for business coaching, I assist local businesses in maximising productivity, enabling remote work, optimising processes, and boosting profitability through innovative technology solutions.

What sets us apart from our competitors is our deep local knowledge and personal approach. We prioritise face-

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to-face interactions, actively listening and assessing each business's unique technological needs. As trusted problem solvers, we employ cutting-edge software to proactively monitor systems, ensure security, perform updates, and manage backups. This proactive approach allows us to focus our client meetings on strategic planning rather than firefighting technical issues.

Our team's dedication and expertise have been recognised with the 2024 Port Macquarie Business Award for Professional Services. My passion for business coaching and continuous learning drives me to share insights and support local businesses looking to leverage technology for sustainable growth.

We pride ourselves on partnering with forward-thinking businesses that view technology as an investment in their future success, not just a cost. With hundreds of local businesses relying on us to keep their operations running smoothly, we're always just a phone call away, ready to support their technological needs and business ambitions.

Office

02 65 841 551

Office Mobile

0423 344 570

2/10 Bellbowrie Street Port Macquarie

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

B R B I C H S I L V E R Q U I N N P R O D U C T I O N S

S

ilver Quinn Productions came about as part of the philosophy that our family has, and that is to spend your time, doing what you love! The cornerstone for myself, was very early on as I was fortunate enough at a young age to work on a movie set in New Zealand called The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise.

I’ve always had a love for filmmaking and storytelling.

For over close to 20 years of my life, I have partnered and worked in collaboration, with large national and international businesses here in Australia, which has enabled me to understand the mechanics and strategic elements of success for growth focussed businesses. Over the years, this valuable experience has enabled my ability to create and tailor videos, as I understand branding, marketing, networking and collaboration to deliver eye catching content.

Building a business which is not only a leader on the Mid North Coast for capturing cinematic wedding day moments but also understanding business content and I’m so proud to see the reaction to our videos! Over the years, the SQP team have worked with a range of very talented people in entertainment and business and I am so proud to be a part of their story.

Silver Quinn Productions @silverquinnproductions @silverquinnproductions silverquinnproductions.com 0423 515 051

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

W I L S O N E L D E R S

L I F E S T Y L E

G R O U P

N

athan Wilson is a renowned, licensed Real Estate Agent and Stock and Station Agent with Elders Lifestyle Group.

With a decade of experience in the industry, he has successfully honed his skills to provide exceptional service to clients near and far.

‘My real estate journey began in 2011 in Property Management in Port Macquarie, where I managed a large portfolio of properties. Over the years, I have transitioned into a sales role and now service property sales from Port Macquarie to Macleay Valley, expanding my reach and impact in the real estate market.’

As the Team Leader at Elders Crescent Head office, Nathan is involved in managing the daily operations and ensuring the experienced team stays at the forefront of the industry.

Nathan’s point of difference in business lies in his down to earth approach and the personalised campaigns he creates for his vendors and properties based on market conditions. ‘I believe in tailoring strategies to meet the unique needs of each property, ensuring optimum results for my clients.’

Nathan Wilson nathan.wilson@eldersrealestate.com.au 0418 766 977

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

D A V I S F R A N K I E ’ S

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P M Q

S

ince opening its doors in 2022, Frankie’s has been a hub of relaxed dining with a fresh vibe.

Proprietor Trent Davis is proud of bringing the concept of the café to life and seeing it develop, the team grow and the offering evolve - a truly rewarding experience.

Working with a talented and large team, focused on creating the best service and dining experience for customers and one of the few cafes in town providing table service, Trent remarks that being in hospitality, one of his major driving forces in business is offering a superior customer experience.

'Delivering the best service we can, in the most convenient way for the customer is the goal.

Table service was something that was always on my mind, and a point of difference. I am lucky to have the amazing crew that I have at the café and the work that they achieve each day!’

14 Clarence St, Port Macquarie 6583 7387 frankies.portmacquarie.com.au frankiespmq@gmail.com /frankies.pmq /frankies.pmq

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

J O L LY M O R E L U N I C O

C A N D L E

C O .

F

ounded in 2021 and based in Port Macquarie, Lunico Candle Co. was born when William combined his love of candles and making things for others to enjoy. It started as a project in the laundry, then it soon expanded to our dining room, kitchen and every other available surface. Jacob joined in 2023, bringing inspiration for new collections as well as a real knack for stirring wax and delighting customers.

The duo’s sense of identity is influenced by their hometowns, family, and memories. Scents have the power to stir memories and feelings. This has inspired William and Jacob to craft a range of soy candles, reed diffusers, wax melts and room sprays in some of their favourite scents.

With a vision to create something special, in March this year they opened the doors of their brick and mortar location on Blackbutt Road in Port Macquarie where they also host candle making workshops.

1A Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie lunicocandleco.com.au lunicocandleco.com.au lunicocandleco.com.au 90 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

W

e are the visionaries behind Hello Sailor, the trailblazing venue that has redefined Port Macquarie's social landscape. As locals, husbands, dads, and lifelong mates, we embarked on a daring venture to create a fresh, vibrant space unlike any other in our community. Lee leads the charge as Hello Sailor's front man and Licensee, meticulously managing the day-today operations with the finesse of a seasoned captain.

Behind the scenes, Scott navigates the complexities of live entertainment, collaborating closely with Lee to steer the venue's strategic direction.

L E E

&

S C O T T

With zero prior experience in hospitality, our journey into the industry was driven by our extensive background in entertainment and a shared passion for enjoying life to the fullest. Our ideas stem from years spent exploring the world's finest licensed venues, shaping Hello Sailor into a haven where every detail reflects our commitment to excellence. Setting us apart from competitors, Hello Sailor thrives as a small, independent business, granting us the freedom to innovate and elevate the culinary and beverage experience. From handcrafted dishes using premium ingredients to empowering our crew with creative ownership, we cultivate a culture of pride and passion.

Each day, we rise to the challenge not only to serve our community but to exceed expectations for our dedicated crew and supportive families. We embrace the thrill of pushing boundaries, driven by the love and appreciation we receive from those who share in our vision. Hello Sailor isn't just a venue; it's our labor of love - a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences and fostering genuine connections within Port Macquarie.

Shed 10, Port Marina 18 Park St (02) 5504 5933 Info@hellosailor2444.com.au hellosailor2444.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 91

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

R O B E R T S

O

ver the last 20 years, I’ve owned and operated several businesses, served on Boards of nonprofit associations, co-founded an association with an international reach and have also been a councillor and deputy mayor on Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

Whilst working on all of the above, I’ve always had a passion for cooking and travelling the world to experience the most amazing foods and flavours. Some of my favourite food memories include eating a hot dog in New York, a slice of pizza in Sorrento, a taco in Mexico, satay in Singapore, paella in Barcelona, a barbecue platter in Austin and a kebab in Turkey. It was a trip to New York in 2012 that inspired me to ditch the bricks and mortar business ventures and set up a food truck, selling street food at events and festivals across the state.

One thing led to another and I landed on splitting my time between a councillor and delving into the world of low ‘n slow American Style barbecue, learning everything there is to know about cooking over fire from some of the world’s best pitmasters and fire chefs.

Spending time competing against the best Pitmasters in Australia and New Zealand, I won more than 30 national level cooking trophies before retiring from the contest tour a few years ago, after winning a Grand Championship Trophy against Australia’s best Pitmasters.

I’ve now turned my focus to writing cookbooks, teaching ‘How to BBQ’ classes, representing major BBQ brands from Australia, New Zealand and the USA and writing, directing and hosting barbecue documentaries. Having won multiple literary awards for my cookbooks over the last few years including BBQ Book of the Year (USA) in 2024, I’m always looking to share my knowledge and journey with anyone who is interested in cooking over fire.

My website has way more information on what I do and what products I have available, including my upcoming book ‘Fire Kitchen’ which hits shelves across Australia this September which is open for pre-sale now and would make a great gift idea for anyone in your network who wants to learn how to cook over fire. pitmasteradamroberts.com adam@pitmasteradamroberts.com

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Having won multiple literary awards for my cookbooks over the last few years including BBQ Book of the Year (USA) in 2024, I'm always looking to share my knowledge and journey with anyone who is interested in cooking over fire.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

B

rendon Slade, at 38 years old, is a proud member of the Hastings community, born and raised in Wauchope. Married with three children ages 13, 11, and 9, Brendon's roots run deep in the region where he now leads as Director along side his brother and business partner Josh Slade at Slade Refrigerated Transport. His days are dedicated to overseeing operations that span from Sydney to Brisbane and as far west as Moree, managing a fleet of 45 trucks and a team of over 70 employees.

Trucks have been a part of Brendon's life from the very beginning. His father Stephen established the business in 1989, and Brendon spent his school holidays riding alongside him, learning the ins and outs of the industry. His journey behind the wheel began early, steering a rigid truck at 17 and swiftly upgrading to handle semi-trailers.

For Brendon, the passion for his work stems from seeing his family business thrive and expand. Growing up around trucks with his father laid the foundation for his deep-rooted connection to the industry.

Now, Brendon finds joy in watching his own children explore the depot, eager to learn and eventually carry on the family legacy.

What sets Slade Refrigerated Transport apart from competitors is their coldstore facility nestled in the heart of the Mid North Coast.

This strategic location enables them to offer overnight service for fresh and frozen goods collected from major hubs like Sydney and Brisbane. From there, their local fleet disperses deliveries up and down the east coast daily, ensuring efficient distribution to countless towns.

Brendon understands the importance of his team in maintaining their edge. His background includes completing two trades - boilermaker and electrical linesman - while always being hands-on with trucks.

This experience has shaped his leadership style, emphasising a workplace where every employee feels valued and respected.

Looking to the future, Brendon and his team are focused on continual improvement and expansion. Despite significant growth over the past eight years, their goal remains clear: to enhance services while staying true to their commitment to customer satisfaction and fostering an inclusive, family-oriented workplace culture.

As Brendon Slade and Slade Refrigerated Transport forge ahead, their journey is a testament to the enduring values of hard work, community, and dedication to excellence in service.

S L A D E O P E R AT I O N S M A N A G E R

02 6585 1599 I Mobile: 0408 492 973

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

F

actory Direct Optical stands as a beacon of clarity and innovation in the optical world. This unique optical practice has become synonymous with exceptional service, precise prescriptions, and affordability.

Max, a stalwart in Port Macquarie’s optical community since 1984, embarked on his journey with Factory Direct Optical to redefine how vision care is delivered. After decades with Baker Payne and Webb Optometrists, Max sought a new approach - one that blends advanced testing and precise prescriptions with the efficiency of a factory-direct model. This allows him to deliver unparalleled quality while keeping costs reasonable.

Matthew, joining the field in 2005 with a background steeped in optical mechanics and manufacturing, found Factory Direct Optical to be the perfect fit. With experiences ranging from managing labs to overseeing national spectacle production, Matthew was drawn to the practice's commitment to onsite lens production and personalised service. For him, the fusion of traditional expertise with cutting-edge technology was not just a job but a passion.

Their inspiration flows from a shared commitment to enhancing lives through better vision. Max is driven by the profound impact clear vision has on people’s daily lives, while Matthew’s passion lies in the technical mastery that ensures each lens provides exceptional clarity and comfort.

What sets Factory Direct Optical apart is their dedication to on-site lens production, allowing them to significantly reduce turnaround times without compromising quality. This factory-direct approach not only streamlines the process but also ensures that every patient receives tailored prescriptions that fit both their visual needs and personal style.

For Max and Matthew, every day at Factory Direct Optical is a testament to their dedication. Max finds fulfillment in using his expertise to make tangible improvements in people’s lives, while Matthew thrives on solving optical challenges and witnessing the transformation in their clients' vision.

Together, they embody a commitment to excellence that resonates through every lens crafted and every patient served at Factory Direct Optical. Whether you’re seeking clarity, comfort, or affordability in your eyewear, Max and Matthew invite you to experience the difference firsthand at their practice, where vision meets innovation in Port Macquarie.

Unit 1B 9 Blackbutt Road 6581 1238 fdoglasses.com.au

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94 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

F A C T O R Y

D I R E C T

O P T I C A L

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

D R. H E I S E F L Y N N S B E A C H M E D I C A L A N D T H E H E A L T H C E N T R E

I

am Jason Heise. A Specialist GP with an interest in skin, specifically skin cancer, primary care dermatology and aesthetic medicine. I am also the Director of Flynn’s Beach Medical Centre and The Health Centre PMQ. As Medical Director, I lead a team of experienced and dynamic GPs, nurses, and staff who provide personalised and holistic medical care to the community.

We offer a wide range of medical services, including general practice, skin cancer medicine, preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialised treatments.

We have two locations: Flynn’s Beach Medical Centre, which has been operating for 30 years, and our recently refurbished and rebranded Lachlan Close premises, now known as The Health Centre PMQ. This new space allows the Specialist GPs to offer dedicated services for women’s health and

well-being. It has also provided me with an opportunity to expand my medical skin services.

I came to medicine later in life. Previously, I had a successful career as a professional musician, including playing for The Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Having grown up in Kundabung, I wanted to return home and work in my local community.

In addition to completing my specialist fellowship with the Royal College of General Practitioners, I have extended my skills with qualifications in skin cancer medicine, dermatology, and facial aesthetics.

possible. Collaborating with such talented and passionate colleagues continuously fuels my enthusiasm and drives me to innovate and improve our services.

I really enjoy working with people, listening to their stories, addressing their concerns, and making a meaningful difference in their lives. Knowing that I play a role in helping others lead healthier, happier lives is the most rewarding aspect of my work.

I have been the owner and director of Flynn’s Beach Medical since 2017.

Working in health is always dynamic and ever-changing. I am constantly inspired by the challenges and opportunities that arise in this field. I work with a great team of dedicated professionals who share my commitment to providing the best care

54 Pacific Drive, PORT MACQUARIE The Heath Centre PMQ

02 5525 3800

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

B A K E R

PRINCIPAL C AT H O L I C

- ST

JOSEPH’S

PRIMARY SCHOOL

T

roy Baker serves as the Principal of St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Port Macquarie, where he is dedicated to cultivating a nurturing and faith-filled environment for students and staff alike. With over two decades of experience in educational leadership within the Catholic school system, Troy's career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, student well-being, and community engagement.

His journey in education has encompassed diverse roles, culminating in his current position as Principal, where he spearheads initiatives in curriculum development and fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages both personal and academic growth. Troy's passion for education stems from a profound belief in the transformative power of quality schooling, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to opportunities that shape their future positively.

At St Joseph's, Troy draws inspiration from evidence-based educational practices, particularly in the Science of Learning, integrating cognitive science and educational research to enhance teaching methodologies and student outcomes. His leadership extends beyond academic pursuits, emphasising holistic development and community involvement as cornerstones of the school's mission.

Each day, Troy approaches his role with enthusiasm and dedication, aiming to create an environment where students thrive, teachers flourish, and families feel welcomed and valued. His commitment to educational excellence and inclusive leadership continues to drive St Joseph's Catholic Primary School towards achieving its goals of academic success and community enrichment.

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

H O T E L S

BRANDON GROGAN

TOM TODD

BILLY DIETRICH

HASTINGS HOTEL

L A K E C AT H I E TAV E R N

TAC K I N G P O I N T TAV E R N

As Venue Manager at Hastings Hotel, Brandon believes success in business centres on good staff, passion, strategy, adaptation and hard work.

Tom is a real ‘people person’ which makes him a great fit as Venue Manager at Lake Cathie Tavern.

Relatively new to the role, Tom says he is thankful to have the Flower Hotels leadership team available to help develop his people and business management skills. Tom is proud of the contributions LCT makes in the community, sponsoring most of the local sporting clubs and serving as a great place for locals to gather and form bonds. He has even been roped in to put the footy boots back on for Lake Cathie FC this season!

With over 20 years experience in the hospitality industry, Billy is a valuable asset to the Flower Hotels team as Venue Manager at Tacking Point Tavern. Billy says “Success in business is directly linked to success of self, you need to love what you do and remain dedicated, always looking to increase your skill set and knowledge.

Understanding and prioritising the customer experience is vital, delivering excellent service and creating positive experiences.”

The Hastings Hotel is currently undergoing renovations and Brandon is excited to “bring back some life into the old girl. “We are focusing on the character aspects of the hotel as well as making it more family friendly.”

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M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

R A N S E

M Y

V I D E O

C

P R O D U C E R

lint Ranse, the Creative Director at My Video Producer, thrives on his passion for video production and storytelling.

Leading a dedicated team, he focuses on delivering top-notch video content tailored to diverse client needs.

My Video Producer specialises in comprehensive video production services, handling everything from initial scripting to final editing. They cater to a wide array of sectors including tourism, real estate, corporate clients, and weddings, ensuring each project is meticulously crafted.

Clint's inspiration stems from his deep-rooted love for storytelling and the profound emotional connections videos can foster. He believes in the transformative power of well-crafted narratives that resonate with audiences and drive business growth.

What sets My Video Producer apart is their collaborative team approach. Unlike many competitors, they operate as a cohesive unit of specialists - from scriptwriters to editors - capable of scaling for large projects and tight deadlines without compromising quality. Their state-of-the-art studio further enhances their ability to deliver high-calibre content seamlessly.

Looking ahead, Clint envisions expanding their services, particularly with Gavin joining to oversee Northern NSW operations. This move aims to broaden their geographic reach and enhance their offerings in photography and video production. Additionally, they plan to assist clients in maximising the impact of their content, ensuring optimal engagement and value.

For those interested in seeing My Video Producer's work firsthand, Clint encourages you to visit their myvideoproducer.com.au website at

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98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

M E N I N B U S I N E S S / A S P E C I A L F O C U S F E AT U R E

M O R O N E Y

G AV I N M O R O N E Y P H O T O G R A P H Y

I’m Gavin, a creative photographer and videographer specialising in studio work and high-end retouching. With a decade of experience in the photography industry, I've engaged in a wide array of projects, from weddings and portraits to commercial shoots and fine art photography.

This journey has not only honed my technical skills but also deepened my ability to tell compelling stories through imagery.

My passion for photography springs from the people and businesses I have the privilege to collaborate with. Their stories and unique perspectives inspire me daily, driving me to capture moments that resonate and endure.

Looking ahead, I'm excited about expanding further into weddings, an area I've found immensely rewarding.

Videography has also become a significant focus, allowing me to offer comprehensive visual storytelling services, from stills to dynamic video content. Joining the team at MVP in Port Macquarie marks a pivotal moment as I extend my photography and videography services to new audiences and larger-scale projects.

Photography isn't just a job; it's a vocation that fuels my curiosity and creativity. Each day brings fresh opportunities to explore and interpret the world through my lens, sharing those perspectives with others. I feel fortunate to pursue a career that aligns so closely with my passions, allowing me to evolve continuously as both an artist and a professional.

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gavinmoroney@me.com 0403 882 699

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Meet Patrick Dale, a 13-year-old with a passion for marshmallows and a knack for business.

Hailing from Lake Cathie and surrounded by his supportive family, Patrick's entrepreneurial journey began in late 2021 .

PATRICK DALE

H

i Patrick, please introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Patrick Dale, the owner and creator of Sweet Tooth Marshmallows and I live in Lake Cathie with my family.

My business started in November 2021 while I was in Lake Cathie Woolworths and I asked my Mum why we could not buy chocolate marshmallows. Mum said good question, and together we went to a variety of shops and could not find flavoured marshmallows.

I then started to research how to make marshmallows. In December 2021, I gave my family and friends a range of marshmallows as christmas presents and the feedback was amazing and it gave me the confidence to launch my business in January 2022 at local markets.

At age 13 you are the owner and creator of Sweet Tooth Marshmallows. Can you tell us about this business and how you came to start this little business of yours?

My business started with a simple question why are there no chocolate marshmallows 100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

and why do the marshmallows available in shops, lack flavour.

I have learnt that marshmallows are scientific, temperature of ingredients, air and humidity impact on the marshmallow, but no recipe tells you this, we learnt this through trial and error.

After Mum and I tested various marshmallow recipes, we created our own. I have now created over 25 flavours, and a range of adult only flavours too. I love that marshmallows bring families together. My personal experience is that marshmallows are connected to family camp fires and family and friend gatherings.

Since the start of my business, my parents have educated me on running a business, obtaining insurance, understanding food requirements, managing my cashflow and supporting me to achieve my business goals. I have now secured a range of wholesale trade accounts for my ingredients which helps in managing my costs.

I have learnt that hard work, support from mentors and my family are helping me to reach my business goals. The Teens in Business have connected me to some amazing mentors who

have been very helpful in growing as a business owner and growing my business.

Tell us about some of your achievements and milestones since starting on this journey.

In the 2.5 years I have been in business, I have achieved a lot, including a number of awards for my products and entrepreneur skills including: - Starting my business when I was aged 10 years old – January 2022 - With the help of my parents initially, we purchased a food trailer to increase my production levels and have since purchased this outright - Top 5 finalist in the National Tween Entrepreneur in the Business in Teens in Business Awards, November 2022 – Aged 11 - Winner of the Sydney Royal Fine Foods Awards, September 2023: Gold medal for chocolate marshmallows Silver medal for coffee marshmallows Silver medal for vanilla bean lamington marshmallows

- One of 5 young entrepreneurs of Australia to showcase at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Melbourne in September 2023 in front of 4000 attendees from across the world - Accepted into the Seed Lab Australia Food Incubator Program, sponsored by Woolworths, the youngest ever participant with my Mum

marshmallow cutter and arranged with the help of my parents to import it into Australia.

This device allows for a tray of marshmallows to be cut in under 10 seconds, a game changer!

error. A couple of grams and a couple of degrees off in measurement/heat impacts on the final product. My flavour creations are from discussions with family, friends and customers or a flavour of marshmallow I like to make.

- Launched retail with my products being stocked in local retailers, March 2024

Marshmallows need to be rested, before cutting. Depending on air temperature, and humidity this averages 7 hours, but can be up to 8 hours.

- Delivered Roadmap to Success talk with Micro Business Forum Members in November 2023

- Currently working with a web designer to launch a website and shop

- Winner of the Tween Entrepreneur of Australia November 2023 and Teens in Business Awards Aged 12

- Currently developing a business video with Clint from My Video Producer

- Top 5 finalist in the Regional and Remote Teen Enterprenuer November 2023, Teens in Business Awards aged 12, competition was entrepreneurs aged 15-18 years - Hired a production assistant to increase my production levels in January 2024 who works when I have large production orders.

- Invited by Sydney Royal Easter Show to showcase at the Sydney Royal Easter Show as a Fine Food Producer in March 2024. I presented 7 talks to over 350 people on my business journey with the MC Media Personality Jane De Graff. I also had a stand and this was supported by 10 family and friends, a huge day but very enjoyable - Purchased in March 2024 from Italy a

- Currently working with packaging company to redesign my packaging - Currently a member of the Young Change Agents Youth Council, working on how we can develop entrepreneur skills and educate and upskill young people - Judge for the Future in Food Challenge National Competition, judging the 10 finalists for awards in the divisions of junior and senior.

What goes into the majority of your marshmallows? Can you take us through the process of how you come up with ideas and the cooking process?

I have learnt that marshmallows are scientific, temperature of ingredients, air and humidity impact on the marshmallow, but no recipe tells you this, we learnt this through trial and

For the recent Christmas in July markets, I asked customers what flavours remind them of Christmas. Following on from that feedback, Mum and I worked in the kitchen testing flavours and have now launched, peppermint and gingerbread.

My recipes are unique as it allows for the flavour to be liquid, powder or paste. I focus on natural flavourings, preservative free. My focus is on creating marshmallows that are as soft as a cloud, full of flavour and delicious.

To deliver the marshmallows for Sydney Royal Easter Show, I purchased an additional 3 mix masters, and a chocolate melter to improve my production efficiency.

With my production capacity now increased, it gives me the confidence to launch my website and online shop.

Continued over...

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You are just about to launch your own website, can you tell us about the website and what we can except to see on it?

range has flavours that are dairy free too.

Currently you can order my marshmallows, through Facebook, email or by calling my Dad. I have mailed my products right across Australia. It has been my business goal to firstly focus on building my production levels and efficiencies and then work towards launching my website. With the help of my parents, we looked at a range of websites and have appointed a web designer. The process has been interesting, and I have reviewed websites in Australia and across the world. Australian consumers spend over $500 million dollars buying marshmallows and the confectionery industry is worth over $7.2 billion dollars, so why as consumers do we accept products that lack flavour and texture?

8 -12 core marshmallows

The development of my websiteI hope will showcase my business journey, my innovation in flavours, and will provide to my customers the joy of marshmallows. It is a food product that brings you together for memories.

While we are still a few weeks away from my website being launched, it will be fun, bold and a blend of who I am, and will showcase my award winning marshmallows and range of products. They are delicious, full of flavour, gluten free, soft as a cloud marshmallows. My 102 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

I will have in my shop a range of marshmallow products including: 2 new flavours per month Hot Chocolate Bombs Rocky Road Sprinkles Marshmallows Pops Marshmallows Hearts Bites of Heaven – my take on wagon wheels I have a range of products and flavours I look forward to creating and showcasing in my business. Watch this space.

You may ask why I stock sprinkles. The simple reason is we lack opportunity to have a diverse and fun range of sprinkles available on the Mid North Coast. My Mum is a great cook and as a child we would make cakes and then decorate them. To have the sprinkle box come out and to choose a range of fun sprinkles involved my Mum either ordering them online and paying postage, or heading to a cake decorating shop when we were in Sydney. If this is our experience, it will be the same for many local families. I have also blended a range of sprinkles and found this to be fun creating new sprinkle blends.

What did it mean and how did you feel winning the National Fine Food Awards in 2023 when your Chocolate Marshmallow won gold, and Coffee and Vanilla Bean Lamington won silver, and awarded Best Marshmallows in Australia?

A friend of the family told me about the Sydney Royal Fine Food Awards. This awards program recognises commercial producers who capture the essence of the land and invest in making a delicious food product. To win an award, it may take years to be successful.

I researched the awards and looked at past winners. I soon realised that consumers highly regard winners of the awards, and found out that some of the judges undertaking the blind testing, were food experts I followed and admired.

I entered as I wanted the judges to provide me with feedback to improve my product, and to win the division was amazing. The chocolate marshmallows received a gold medal, and this means they are the best of the best.

My 2 other entries, coffee and vanilla bean lamington marshmallows won silver medals.

The judges knew nothing about me at the assessment, so to be assessed against other fine food producers and win was an amazing experience.

It means that my chocolate marshmallows

were the best in Australia in 2023, what an achievement for my business!

To win the division was amazing.

The chocolate marshmallows received a gold medal, and this means they are the best of the best.

This led to the opportunity to be invited to showcase for one day at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 2024. I was provided with a stand and undertook 7 presentations to over 350 people to try my marshmallow products and also learnt about my business story. I’m grateful for the family and friends that came down to help me. It was an amazing experience, and I had the opportunity to meet with so many customers. This is the element of my business I love. Meeting repeat and new customers, understanding what flavours they like and hearing how they enjoyed my marshmallows and created memories.

You have a 5 year plan; can you share with us what it is?

When I was 11, I created my 5 year business plan on YouTube. I’m currently working on my year 3 goals of growing my retail business and expanding my business reach and sales. My 5 year business plan is to have my products in supermarkets like Woolworths and Coles.

I have now added to my original business

plan through growing as a business owner and speaking to my mentors and other young entrepreneurs. I would like to provide an opportunity for young people to establish their own stand at markets, so l’m looking at a franchise model. I have also enjoyed undertaking inspirational talks on my business journey and insight to business from a tween entrepreneur’s view point. My goal is to undertake more inspirational talks around Australia.

I look forward to working with a range of cafes to have my marshmallows added to hot chocolate and be available for enjoyment by their customers.

My business growth has been with the help of my family. My Mum supports me in production and creating new flavours with me, and my Dad is a production helper, and he packs the marshmallows.

My Mum and Dad support me at markets.

Dad offers samples at the Foreshore Markets, Laurieton Riverwalk Markets and Old Bar Community Markets. My sister helps with marketing. We are a family business and without their support and help I would not be achieving the business goals I set for myself.

If our readers want to purchase your marshmallows how can they do so?

Currently readers can buy my marshmallows at Port Macquarie Foreshore Markets (2nd Saturday of the month), Laurieton Riverwalk Markets (3rd Sunday of the month) and Old Bar Community Markets (4th Sunday of the month). They can call my Dad on 0475 385 181, drop us a message on Facebook or email sweettoothmarshmallows@gmail.com You can also visit my website landing page at www.sweettoothmarshmallows.com.au A small range of marshmallows are available at Billabong Zoo and The Witchy Nook, and I look forward to expanding my range when Bianca expands her business into new premises in Horton Street.

We take orders for weddings, engagement parties, corporate events, baby showers or any celebration, where you should have a platter of marshmallows available to share.

We will be launching our website in the near future, so keep an eye on Facebook and we look forward to sharing the joy of marshmallows with you.

Make today the day you try a chocolate, choc mint, passionfruit, strawberry or mango marshmallow - the list goes on.

Congratulations Patrick we can’t wait to see where this continues to take you.

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Photo- Lucy Humphries Photography

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Your home.

Our expertise.

David Hearle Home Lending Specialist 0436 682 485 David.Hearle@cba.com.au

Kay Dunham Home Lending Specialist 0434 329 879 Kay.Dunham@cba.com.au

Whether you’re looking to buy, invest or refinance, your local CommBank Home Lending Specialist can help provide: Free customised property reports Budget guidance and personalised repayment plan Flexibility to suit your changing needs

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CommBank Port Macquarie Branch Ground Floor 73 Horton Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Things you should know: Applications are subject to credit approval. Eligibility criteria and other conditions may apply to some loans.

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EDUCATION

UPDATE with STEPHEN PARES

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

A

THE ROLE OF AI IN SCHOOLS: INSIGHTS FROM RESEARCH AND EXPERT OPINIONS

rtificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly making its presence felt in various domains, and education is no exception. Recent studies are shedding light on how AI can transform classroom dynamics, assist teachers, and enhance student learning experiences.

This article highlights the research, findings, and expert perspectives on integrating AI in schools.

AI in the Classroom: Time Saving and Efficiency One of the primary benefits of AI in education is its potential to save teachers valuable time in planning lessons and assignments. According to an article in The Australian, AI classroom assistants can significantly reduce the workload of teachers by automating routine tasks. Often in the form of chatbots, they are designed to provide customised support to teachers, thereby allowing them to focus more on interactive and personalised teaching methods.

Enhancing Student Engagement A pilot program in NSW is exploring the use of AI chat apps in schools. As reported by The Guardian, these chat apps encourage students to work independently by making them “work for the answers” rather than providing them outright. This method not only promotes critical thinking but also helps students develop problem-solving skills. It is part of a 106 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

broader initiative to integrate generative AI technologies into the education system, aiming to make learning more engaging and effective.

Challenges and Concerns However, there are also significant challenges and concerns that need to be addressed.

An article on news.com.au highlights the anxiety among teachers regarding the rise of generative AI. Concerns about the ethical use of AI, data privacy, and the accuracy of AI-generated content. These issues underscore the need for careful implementation and the ongoing evaluation of AI tools in educational settings.

Research and Development Extensive research is being conducted on the implications of AI in education. According to a study published in Teacher Magazine, integrating generative AI in teaching can provide significant benefits, including personalised learning experiences and datadriven insights into student performance.

However, it also emphasises the importance of training educators to effectively use AI tools and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical AI practices.

AI in Catholic Education The Catholic Education Network (CENet) has been actively involved in research and development related to AI in education. AI technologies are being leveraged to support

administrative tasks, enhance teaching methodologies, and improve student outcomes. Similarly, the Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) hosted an AI symposium in 2024 to discuss the latest advancements and future directions for AI in Catholic education, with many educators from our schools in the Hastings attending.

Expert Opinions According to an article in The Catholic Weekly, AI can revolutionise education by providing tailored learning experiences and enabling teachers to identify and address individual student needs more effectively. However, experts also caution that the success of AI depends on the careful integration of technology with traditional teaching methods and the active involvement of educators.

Conclusion While AI can provide significant benefits such as time-saving, personalised learning, and improved student engagement, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed through careful planning, ethical considerations, and continuous evaluation. The future of AI in schools looks promising, but it requires a balanced approach to ensure that both teachers and students can fully reap its benefits. We’re watching, listening and testing this space very closely! More to come in future editions.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 107

focus_contributor.

MONEY with BEC FARNSWORTH FA R N SWO R T H F I N A N C I A L

W

THE ADVANTAGES OF USING A MORTGAGE BROKER

hen it comes to securing a mortgage, the endless amount of information out there can be quite overwhelming, even to the seasoned homeowner. Engaging a mortgage broker is highly advantageous as the right broker will offer convenience, expertise, and access to a wide array of options without the stress of hours of research and potential delays. An experienced mortgage broker helps borrowers to navigate the complex and competitive mortgage market with ease.

Mortgage brokers act as personal mortgage matchmakers, conducting comprehensive research and analysis on behalf of their clients.

They compare various lenders and interest rates, presenting borrowers with tailored lending solutions that fit their clients’ unique requirements and objectives. This service saves borrowers from the laborious task of searching multiple websites and making countless phone calls, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives. Because let’s be honest, I’m sure there are lots of more appealing things to do with your time.

A mortgage broker possesses extensive knowledge and expertise in the mortgage industry. It is a requirement that we stay updated with the latest trends and developments, guiding borrowers through the mortgage process.

108 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

enhances borrowers’ chances of securing a Having the knowledge to provide our clients with the right education and financial literacy mortgage that suits their needs and financial to achieve their own financial goals is a must, circumstances. and something that your broker should pride So, you might be asking yourself, “how much themselves on. Brokers clarify complex jargon, does it cost?”. Some ensuring borrowers brokers charge a fee for understand the loan their service whilst others options available to The expertise do not. Your broker must them. By providing that a broker disclose this up front clear explanations and possesses means they before you choose to personalised advice, can identify the lenders proceed with them. A mortgage brokers help broker is also paid by the that your situation will borrowers make informed lender once your loan fit with quickly. decisions aligned with settles with them. The fee their financial goals. differential between the Engaging a mortgage lenders is minimal and, in broker grants borrowers access to a wide range some cases, non-existent. This means that you of lending solutions that they might otherwise can rest assured that a broker is not sending you be unaware of. Each lender has their own to a particular lender for their own gain. risk appetite and credit guidelines. Because So next time you’re looking to review your of this, your scenario may fit with one lender existing lending or purchase a new home, work but not another. The expertise that a broker smarter, not harder, and reach out to a broker. possesses means they can identify the lenders The convenience they provide by handling that your situation will fit with quickly. Brokers research and comparisons, combined with their have established networks with numerous expertise in the mortgage industry, is invaluable. lenders, including major financial institutions A broker’s large network of lenders grants and niche lenders. This connectivity enables borrowers access to a wide range of options, brokers to present borrowers with choices not increasing the likelihood of securing favourable readily available through traditional channels. mortgage terms. By engaging a broker, you can By leveraging their network, mortgage brokers navigate the mortgage market with confidence, identify lenders who cater to specific borrower simplifying the process and optimising your profiles, offering competitive rates and unique chances of obtaining your dream home. loan products. Access to diverse options

P

eople often say they don’t care about politics.

But that’s a bit like saying: I don’t care about where I live, what services I have, the roads I drive on, or the environment around me.

The Greens CARE about all these things and hopefully, by the end of this article, you will feel that you do care about local politics and who represents you on Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

The Greens on Council represent the ‘CARE factor’ - and that’s why I’m asking the community to re-elect me in September this year to stand up for our environment, action on energy, housing, and transport, responsible governance, and equity now and for future generations.

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Re-electing

LAUREN EDWARDS ENSURES THE CARE FA C TO R O N C O U N C I L

The Hastings is one of the most beautiful, pristine places on the coast of New South Wales and it must be preserved.

People come from all over the world to experience the beauty of our natural environment, and it deserves our protection, especially our native trees and koala population.

We often hear the term ‘Sustainable Development’, but what does it mean? Quite simply, it means planning and delivering the infrastructure and services that our community needs, whilst balancing those needs with the protection of our environment. The truth is, we can secure more homes that will suit every budget and protect our koalas, too. We can do both!

Having been a Councillor for the past three years, I’ve developed greater insight into local governance. In the next term of Council, my aims will be to reinvigorate community engagement and partnerships, and be part of a Council that acts with responsible governance for all.

Two of the most significant opportunities to act on climate change in our part of the world are through energy and transport. In real terms, this means getting on board with the energy transition and encouraging greater uptake of renewable energy, electrification and a multimodal transport system for our community that will better enable us to get around via walking, bicycles, e-bikes and even electric bus. In one of our neighbouring Local Government areas, the Council together with Busways have conducted a free electric bus trial, and I think it’s something we could explore here in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

If you care about where and how you live as much as I do, then vote for the GREENS to get the CARE factor back on Council!

Authorised by A. Croft for The Greens NSW. 19a/1 Hordern Place Camperdown NSW 2050

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 109

focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with

I

ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

am often asked why I joined Business Port Macquarie (previously known as Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce).

15 years ago, I initially joined to network and grow my business and to learn from other successful business people in our area. I remember walking into my first network event and thinking to myself “What am I doing here!” There were many successful business people in the room who soon put my fears to rest as I was welcomed, encouraged and supported by these people as well as many others. I have always enjoyed the range of guest speakers we have had, and even today you will see me at an event madly taking notes. I find I learn so much from the others that I meet. That is the beauty of networking.

Twelve years ago, I took up a voluntary position on the board of Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce as I saw when business thrives so does the whole community. Once again, I thought to myself “You’ve done it again Alex, you’ve opened your mouth with no idea of what you are doing.” However, this is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

I was welcomed by the board and I have been mentored by some incredible people who have shared their wealth and knowledge with me.

Two standouts being Janette Hyde and Chris Denny to whom, I am forever grateful. I love watching others succeed and being part of a team that can deliver practical and educational opportunities. Recognising and applauding business owners as well as introducing them to other business people who can form amazing

110 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

collaborations makes what we do at Business Port Macquarie so worthwhile. However, there are other sides that you may not be aware of, such as the opportunity we have to make the voices of business people heard through our advocacy with all levels of government.

We are fortunate to live in an area where our political representatives like to hear the needs of businesses and how they can take concerns to parliament or how they can make a difference. We also like to collaborate with schools as this is where our future workforce and entrepreneurs will come from. We do this by taking some of our guest speakers to speak to students. We are sponsors of Hastings Education Fund and Luminosity to give students opportunities they may not otherwise get. We have also facilitated taking a diverse range of people in different businesses to schools. This as given students the opportunity to learn about different lines of work they may be interested in and what would be required to get there, and to show that no matter what your background is, you can be successful if you are prepared to put in the work required.

Community and where we live is also very important, so we look at ways that we can bring the community together. Events like New Years Eve fireworks where we partner with different businesses to the benefit of locals and tourists. We also assist Westpac Helicopter with their fundraising efforts with a golf day each year. This is an amazing service which we hope you will never need but can be grateful for if you ever do.

We are an alliance partner with Business NSW to provide our members access to legal and HR advice as well as opportunities to save money on electricity plus much more.

We are here for business. Sometimes that may just be an ear to listen, or to put you in touch with someone who can assist you further with your situation. Most importantly though, we are there for our members no matter how big or small your business may be. For individuals or companies where everyone is treated as an equal, feel free to call either Malcolm on 0422 562 300 or myself on 0414 772 771. We are happy to help you with any questions or needs you may have.

So come along and check out Business Port Macquarie. We have a casual coffee catch up at 10am the first Wednesday of each month at Macquarie Waters Corner Restaurant, Clarence St or attend one of our events. You may come as a stranger but you will leave having met some fantastic people. Go to our events page at www.businessportmacquarie.com.au for all event details and to register. I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I ever made!

Quote for the month: If you see someone falling behind, walk beside them. If you see someone being ignored, find a way to include them. Always remind people of their worth. One small act could mean the world to them Until next month Alex

Magnify your business success.

Sandra Magann B.Bus CA . Principal

Free yourself from financial stress.

Focus on what you do best.

Our accounting and advisory experts will take care of the rest.

6583 5811 grow@magnified.com.au magnified.com.au

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ABOUT US

T

We’re a group of life and business experienced, long-time locals who have been committed to serving our local community for decades.

he experience we bring to this local council election is extensive, with our candidates having a solid business background across many sectors including mechanics and automotive, transport, construction, hospitality, farming as well as thousands of hours of time already spent supporting our local community groups or charities.

Led by Adam Roberts, who has been deputy mayor to the last two mayors, is contesting his third election in 12 years and vows to 112 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

continue the important reform-work started under outgoing Mayor, Peta Pinson, in taking council back to the Roads, Rates & Rubbish approach and continuing the record delivery of key and critical infrastructure.

& Rubbish approach, which means prioritising the projects and services that will support our community and enhance our quality of life at a local level.

Even with record spending under the leadership of Peta Pinson, there is still much to deliver across water, sewer, footpaths, parks & gardens as well as fast-tracking upgrades to our existing sporting facilities to service our rapidly growing region.

If Adam is elected as your new Mayor, with a majority of candidates in support, the next four years will see the council continue to spend record amounts on critical infrastructure, keeping downward pressure on rates and making sure our community is at the centre of all of our decision making.

This new collective of candidates is fully committed to focusing in on the Roads, Rates

Vote 1, Adam Roberts for Mayor and the newlook team for council.

AUTHORISED BY ADAM ROBERTS, 30 ASPECT COURT THRUMSTER NSW 2444

ADAM ROBERTS Business owner, family man with wife and two teenage children; two-time Deputy Mayor and Councillor over the last 12 years; Adam is also Australia’s most awarded Fire Chef (Pitmaster) with more than 35 major awards across competitive fire cooking, cookbook writing and content creation.

KYLIE VAN DER LEY Well-known local business owner for over 32 years, Kylie has served our community groups as President or coordinator across multiple sectors including Rural Fire Service, School P&C, Fourwheel-driving, Volunteering in Policing as well as performing with the Players’ Theatre in lead roles.

CHRIS KIRKMAN Proud local of over 35 years, wine and food industry expert, Chris, his wife and kids live in King Creek. Having previously run a family business supplying local cheeses, Chris continues to work in the wine industry, alongside, and supporting many other familyowned hospitality businesses and local charities.

JOSH SLADE Experienced Councillor and local major transport company owner, Josh splits his time between managing more than 70 staff, councillor duties, his young family and supporting multiple sporting and community groups across the region.

DANIELLE MALTMAN Experienced Councillor, former grants consultant, accredited engagement specialist, wife and mother, recently nominated for the 2024 Ministers’ Award for Women in Local Government, Danielle also has a long family history and connection to the Port Macquarie Hastings Region.

EVAN O’BRIEN Married with four children, Evan served six years in the Australian Army; volunteers for a local charity helping people in need; and co-owns an internationally-recognised local farming industry associated business based in Port Macquarie.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 113

R E V .

D A N

Bicentenni

B E R R I S

ST THOMAS’ ANGLICAN CHURCH

CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

St Columba Anglican School, together with St Thomas’ Anglican Church Port Macquarie, are pleased to announce the launch of a three-year scholarship for students entering Year 10 in 2025, the St Thomas’ Bicentennial Christian Leadership Scholarship.

B

oth St Columba Anglican School and St Thomas’ Anglican Church have a firm belief in fostering a community where faith, leadership, and service go hand in hand. Through this scholarship, we aim to nurture individuals who will not only excel academically, but also make a profound difference in their communities and beyond.

The St Thomas’ Bicentennial Scholarship is specifically designed for students who exemplify Christian values in their leadership roles and community service endeavours. We are seeking candidates who demonstrate integrity, a strong commitment to their faith, and active engagement within their local church community. Beyond academic achievements, this scholarship recognises individuals who inspire others through their unwavering dedication, compassion, and faithfulness.

Rev. Dan Berris, Rector of St Thomas’ Anglican

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Church, says that the scholarship aims to identify and empower the next generation of leaders who will make a positive impact on our world through their compassion and conviction, while preparing them for a life of service.

“We are looking for a student who has a deep understanding of the Anglican faith and is actively engaged in liturgical and prayerful activities, such as youth groups, social justice initiatives, and charity events. This individual should be living their lives with the hallmarks of a Christian – hopeful, compassionate, merciful and kind, with a servant-hearted attitude in their everyday life.”

The St Thomas’ Bicentennial Christian Leadership Scholarship will offer a 100% reduction in school tuition fees for the three year duration of the scholarship.

Applicants will be required to include a letter of application to the Principal along with a Scholarship Portfolio, showcasing their

achievements throughout their school and community life. Applicants for the St Thomas’ Bicentennial Christian Leadership Scholarship will also be required to submit a proposal for a project that involves St Thomas’ Anglican Church, and that aligns with the mission of the Church, which they will then implement during their time at St Columba.

We invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity with us. By applying for this scholarship, your child will have the opportunity to nurture their faith and leadership skills in an environment that values service and personal growth. Our goal is to empower students to become influential leaders who embody the principles of Christian leadership in their everyday lives.

To learn more about the scholarship and how to apply, visit the St Columba Anglican School website at www.scas.nsw.edu.au/scholarships.

Applications are now open, and will close on Friday, 13 September 2024.

As a new student to SCAS, the reason I love it here is that being a bigger school SCAS has the ability to create a wide range of opportunities. Each teacher gets to know you and your abilities and help you to be the best you can be. The respect from the students towards the teachers creates a great environment.

Being part of the diverse, talented and fantastic Year 8 group has been an awesome experience for me.

– New Year 8 Student

Visit our website www.scas.nsw.edu.au Phone 6581 4188 | Email enrolments@scas.nsw.edu.au

focus_contributor.

LEGAL

Light

LEGAL

with EMILIE COOPER LLB (HONS) BA (SPANISH)

FROM PRIEST LEGAL

D

o you feel like all is well with the world, or are you just a little perturbed that things are changing- fast- with no discernible end in sight?

Major news items like the assassination attempt on former President Trump, high levels of domestic violence, unusual weather patterns, exorbitant increases in insurance costs and the unavoidable continuing cost of living issues can certainly increase the anxiety levels and give cause for a little perturbation.

In astronomy, perturbation is the complex motion of a massive body subjected to forces other than the gravitational attraction of a single other massive body. The search for and discovery of an eighth planet – Neptune – for example, was the result of astronomers noting that Uranus (the seventh planet from the Sun) seemed to have slight perturbations in its motion around the sun.

If you are still reading this, you may have momentarily forgotten your personal perturbations and be developing some perturbations about the sanity of the writer or the purpose of this article. Fair call, but

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P ERT URB AT IO NS O F A L AW Y E R stay with me.

I have been a lawyer in Port Macquarie and Wauchope for the last 24 years. I started my working life as a linguist – with four languages that I was reasonably fluent in and having learnt Latin for 5 years at school.

With all those linguistic skills and training I became a teacher of English as a Second Language (a TESOL) – for which you only need to do a 6-week course and be a native speaker of English.

Coming into law as a mature student with a background in linguistics, languages and communication, I found the language of the law – and particularly the court room extraordinarily perturbing notwithstanding the fact that it was the same language that I had spoken my entire life and taught for many years.

Latin phrases that still sprinkle legal discourse like “ad hoc”, “actus reus” and my favourite “de minimis non curat lex” which means “the law doesn’t cure the little things” were a familiar stomping ground for me. Although they were “foreign words”, they were direct and clear as to their meaning. Whilst the long, convoluted

sentences, the formality of the court room and referring to the local Magistrate as “Your Worship” were all a great source of perturbation.

Fortunately, I was not alone. Over time there has been a strong and consistent move for the law to be expressed in plain language and for lawyers to express themselves more plainly. Plain language is an approach to communication that starts by considering the needs of the audience. It results in effective communication because the reader can understand the message. Seriously?

That simple?

So why did lawyers and legislators use convoluted sentences and phrases from a language that died in 700AD? To show or identify belonging to a particular group.

Like judges wearing wigs it enabled legislators and lawyers to identify themselves as powerful and commanding reverence.

At Priest Legal, we endeavour to give advice in plain language and hopefully in doing so reduce one source of anxiety. Contact us at Priest Legal – 02 65 831 777 or email info@ priestlegal.com.au for sound legal advice in plain English.

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NIK FOR MAYOR

“Committed to our Community”

VOTE

1

LIPOVAC

AND VOTE 1 TEAM LIPOVAC

Luke

Ellen

Nik

Jon

GAREL CREPAZ LIPOVAC BAILEY CouncillorNik

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 117

Transforming

EDUCATION THROUGH EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICES

In the heart of Port Macquarie, St Joseph’s Primary School stands out under the leadership of Principal Troy Baker. With a strong commitment to evidence-informed teaching methods based on solid research, St Joseph’s Primary is leading the way in modern education, making sure every student learns and develops to their full potential.

H

ow students learn best at St Joseph’s Primary. This approach is guided by the latest educational research from the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) and other leading bodies such as The Deans for Impact organisation. “Effective teaching is about understanding how students learn and adapting our methods to support those processes,” Mr Baker explains. This means using teaching practices that are proven to help students absorb and remember information better.

on creating a learning environment where

Thoughtful Planning and Teaching

students feel engaged, challenged, and safe.

Creating a Positive Learning Environment

The team at St Joseph’s carefully plan their lessons to make sure students aren’t when we have high overwhelmed. “We break expectations and Having clear down complex information they feel safe and rules and into manageable parts respected,” says routines that we and teach it step-by-step Mr Baker. “Having insist upon helps to reduce cognitive load” clear rules and them focus and he says. Through multiple routines that we interact positively. opportunities to retrieve insist upon helps information, this approach them focus and helps students move interact positively.” information from shortterm to long-term memory, making learning Research supports this, showing that positive more permanent and accessible. interactions and self-regulation techniques

At St Joseph’s, Troy Baker and his team focus

are key to effective learning.

118 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

“Students thrive

Achieving Mastery through Practice

A big part of the encourage parents We review philosophy that Troy and guardians to get and practice Baker and the St Joseph’s involved, even if it material regularly staff engage with is the is for short periods to ensure students gradual release model. or in areas they are remember and can “We review and practice knowledgeable in. use what they learn material regularly This can make a huge even after time has to ensure students impact.” elapsed. remember and can use Under Troy Baker’s what they learn even leadership, and after time has elapsed” with the support of he states. This method helps students a committed staff, the school is not just develop from novice learners to experts, teaching; it’s transforming education. By allowing them to master their subjects and core skills, so that they can then problemsolve and engage in critical thinking.

applying research-based methods, and creating a supportive and well-structured environment where every student has the opportunity to excel, they are setting a new standard for education at St Joseph’s Primary School and making a significant difference in students’ lives.

Inclusive Education for All Students Troy Baker believes in supporting every student, no matter their needs. “Each student is unique, and it’s our job as educators to support them, we are not in the habit of giving up easily,” he says. This ensures that all students, including those with additional needs, get the guidance they need to succeed.

Partnering with Families Troy Baker also emphasises the importance of involving families in education. “When families take part in their children’s learning, it creates a strong support system” he notes. This involvement not only improves the educational experience but also makes students feel more secure and valued. “I GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 119

Meg

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.

As Manager - Business Development for Birdon, a Port Macquarie-owned global group of companies operating in the maritime, military and resource sector, Meg works across all of Birdon’s business divisions, managing the extensive tender processes for this iconic family company which has well and truly forgotten how to think small. With a Bachelor of Environmental Engineering and a Master of Environmental Engineering Management, Meg brings 25 years of industry, government and corporate environmental engineering experience to the table and passionately works to implement solutions and effect cultural change. When she is not working with the Birdon team to secure the next exciting project for the group, Meg can be found inspiring the next generation of engineers through various mentorship projects and youth workshops.

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Teasd

A

n intrepid nature lover, Meg is regularly found exploring the local mountains and coastlines, inspiring our community to get out of their comfort zone through her epic athletic and endurance endeavours, recently claiming the trophy for First Female at the famed 50km Elephant Trail Race.

Meg, who or what inspired your passion for Environmental Engineering - where did it all begin?

My parents have always encouraged me to be inquisitive and to find out how things worked and why. I enjoy being challenged, and I love having a good problem to consider, including all the human and behavioural factors that go into how we approach our world. It was a good choice for me – I’ve been lucky in having the opportunity to work with some really inspiring creative thinkers.

In the challenging and rewarding role of Business Development for Birdon how important is the balance between discipline and adaptability to your work practice and success?

Birdon is in the business of providing solutions to challenging projects, so creative thinking and adaptability and teamwork are really important, however without the discipline to sit down and do the work it’s all just ideas. I think this is the

case for talent in just about every area – music and art and engineering – it’s critical to have both.

You have immersed yourself in many leadership and community initiatives across our community including your recent appointment to the Charles Sturt University Regional Consultative Committee, tenures on the board of Port Macquarie Community Preschool and Toy Library, volunteering with Marine Rescue, the Engineers Australia Mentoring Program and Luminosity Youth Summit to name just a few. What drives you to contribute to our coastal community?

I think perhaps it’s part of the engineering psyche. As engineers, we’re part of a team, often part of a company or organisation; we operate in an industry or field. We’re part of our communities; I’m a mother of young Australians. We carry a responsibility in each of these roles to keep moving our society towards the most positive version of the future.

What has been your greatest challenge during your professional career?

I think for me it’s the perpetual challenge of determining if what I’m doing right now is my “calling”? Is it the “highest and best use” of my skills and attributes? Am I contributing to the world sufficiently through my days? I don’t think there are answers, but I do think

these are questions that are worth asking, and I do know too, that our contribution to the world isn’t restricted to our day jobs. There are many ways that I hope I contribute, and I’m lucky that where I work often provides extra opportunities to get involved in meaningful projects at work or in the community.

What is the most challenging or interesting project you’ve ever worked on?

Most of the time when you ask me, it will be the project I’m currently working on. My current role is to consider at the front end of projects, how they could be carried out with the least risk, most sustainably, most economically and what innovation can we bring to help our customers. I’m particularly enjoying our asset recycling projects which involve recycling of major assets such as defence assets, or major plant from extractive industries. We’ve just completed deconstructing and recycling the largest ship that’s ever been recycled in Australia, achieving a recycling rate of 99.13%!

Is there a particular career milestone that stands out in your mind as a game changer for you?

For me there isn’t just one moment – it’s lots of small interactions with the people I work with, people who inspire me, engineering and professional mentors, and the people I run with and explore with. They all have unique insights that help broaden my outlook and I’m constantly realising how much impact every one of us can have on each other.

Making connections and being involved in

your community is so important for your own wellbeing, and certainly gives my life a lot of meaning.

You have a passion for inspiring the next generation of regional engineering leaders and have regularly shared your time and expertise to inspire young people and especially young women, to step into the STEM space. What inspires you about the future of the engineering profession?

Engineers are about the application of science and technology to solve problems. That’s a really exciting space to be operating in and a big role (and responsibility) for applying technology and moving our societies toward a positive future, in all sorts of fields. If we can excite young people and help them discover how they can make a difference in their world, we’re giving them a really valuable gift.

You have a passion for an active lifestyle and exploring nature and you’ve been able to combine these passions whilst traversing and trekking an adventurous trail through local and distant mountain ranges and endurance events. How important is this natural connection to filling your own cup and to ensuring you give your best to your role and to the community?

So important! The Japanese term it “forest bathing” – giving ourselves a re-set. We can find it in the forest, or on the coast, but we can also find it in micro-doses while you’re taking your dog around the block – noticing the air on your face and the living things around us –

even if it’s just a bug on a footpath.

But even more important - I saw a little picture with a quote that stayed in my mind while I was running in the Elephant Trail Race in July. The message was that life isn’t about the journey, nor is it about the destination – it’s about the company. That resonates with me.

Your next adventure is the Bravery Trek with the Birdon team - can you share a little about the project and how people can be involved?

Yes for sure! Bravery Trek raises awareness (and some funds) for Bravery Trust – a national military charity providing current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with financial aid, financial education and financial counselling, working in the existing veteran support system of organisations. The services of Bravery Trust are free, confidential, and independent of the ADF. Bravery Trust relies on funding from government, from sponsorship, and from the community through events like Bravery Trek.

Birdon are sponsors of the event which is a virtual challenge, where you can choose your sport – walking, running, riding, swimming etc and make it a fun way of encouraging each other to be active and at the same time paying respect to those who have served in the ADF and recognising that in returning they can be faced with some significant challenges that don’t need to be faced alone. You can get involved at braverytrek.com.au/ Thank you Meg. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 121

Amy Walker is the woman behind Wonder Woman Cleaning, a business that she has grown from the ground up with passion and dedication. Amy and her team recently took out top spot at the Coastline Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards in recognition of their excellence in the field.

Amy Wker

H

W O N D E R

i Amy, can you tell us a bit about the history of Wonder Woman Cleaning and how it all started?

I started my business

over 5 years ago as a side hustle to make extra income to support my family. I was working 3 jobs, cleaning, waitressing at events and as a kindy gym coach. I started with three amazing clients and one gave me a Lego figurine keychain of Wonder Woman with their house key and said “because you are Wonder Woman”, and that’s how 122 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

W O M A N

C L E A N I N G

my business was born. From there word of mouth got around town and eventually I resigned from events and coaching and have solely focused on my business.

Congratulations on your recent recognition at the Coastline Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards! How does it feel to have won a business award in Port Macquarie?

To be honest it still hasn’t quite sunk in, I was not expecting to win at all. Our category had some tough competitors and we all should be proud just to have been nominated. I am extremely grateful and humble to have come

away with the win.

Can you share what this award means to you and your team?

This award means the world to myself, my team and our families. I consider my team to be an extension of my family and to have them there on the night was amazing. They are the backbone of my business and we’re so excited and grateful to be recognised as one of the best in the business.

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

My team is very small and for good reason.

We prefer quality over quantity and we strive for progress each and every day. My team consists of:

with help from my family and team I’ve been

Emily - My full timer and my right arm. She’s personable, punctual and has the personality to boot. Clients love her positive outlook and her passion and patience to get the job done to a high standard.

Wonder Woman Cleaning and serving

Cass - My part timer is vibrant, has a can-do attitude and takes care of our clients’ animals too, as they need attention! Cass strives for perfection and is a great asset to the team.

Key elements for me are: Be passionate about what you do; Understand your market and their needs;

able to keep going and seek the help I’ve needed.

What do you enjoy most about running the Port Macquarie community?

I’m passionate about my business and I think that is the main driving force. If you don’t love what you do there’s no point in doing it. I love meeting new clients and being able to tailor our work to suit their needs and lifestyles.

Maddie - My personal assistant, my backbone and my beautiful sister who takes care of all the things behind the scenes like accounts and customer liaison. She’s truly a go-getter who strives daily to push me to be the best I can be in all facets of my life.

I also love helping the community, whether

Ashtyn - My amazing, humorous and mischievous 10 year old, dominates on the vacuum and keeps us all in fits of laughter.

She’s a workhorse and along with her 2 sisters, Cady and Isabel they are the driving force behind Staffing is a the business. They all challenge I played a vital role in think most businesses helping win our award, have faced during and as without them I post COVID. I look to couldn’t do everything my staff as family so I do.

organisations such as the Hastings Business

I want people I can trust and fully rely on. Cleaning isn’t for everyone as it’s a full on job and puts a lot of strain on your body.

Collaboration over competition;

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced since starting Wonder Woman Cleaning, and how did you overcome them?

Have fun, be personable and flexible as everyday isn’t promised.

Staffing is a challenge I think most businesses have faced during and post COVID. I look to my staff as family so I want people I can trust and fully rely on. Cleaning isn’t for everyone, as it’s a full on job and puts a lot of strain on your body.

Can you tell us more about your team and the role they played in achieving this award?

I’ve also had a lot of personal struggles over the past 12 months and that has impacted my mental health and wellbeing, however

The right leadership and team; Know your numbers and if you don’t - hire someone that does;

that be donating our services for fundraisers or charitable events or attending functions, it really makes my heart happy knowing we’re a part of the community and people know who we are. We’re also members of local Women’s Network & Business Port Macquarie where we meet like minded business owners to collaborate with.

What are your plans for Wonder Woman Cleaning moving forward? Are there any new services or expansions on the horizon?

There are definitely some new services coming to the Wonder Woman business in the near future but we’re keeping pretty tight lipped about them as we don’t want to ruin the surprises too soon! We're also expanding into the Gold Coast market in 2026 and definitely looking forward to the sea change.

What advice would you give to other small business owners who are looking to achieve similar success?

Don’t give up when things get tough, keep going. Work as hard as you can in the beginning so you can build the work/life balance you deserve. If people are offering you help and advice - listen, acknowledge and take what resonates for you. Business isn’t meant to be hard, it’s meant to be fun, so enjoy what you do.

Don’t ever settle for breadcrumbs when you’re worth the entire bakery!

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focus_contributor. your rooms.

Embracing Natural Textures and Materials Texture plays a vital role in a Wabi-Sabi interior.

Natural materials like wood stone, clay, and linen bring a tactile richness that synthetic How to Make materials often lack. Each material, with its unique texture and finish, contributes to a layered, inviting space.

Consider wooden furniture with a raw, finished look. The knots and grain in the wood add character and tell the story of the tree it came from. Stone surfaces, whether in the form of countertops, tiles, or decorative objects, bring a sense of permanence and solidity. Clay and ceramic pieces, especially handmade ones, offer a beautiful irregularity and warmth.

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EMBRACING WABI-SABI: CREATING A MINDFUL HOME INTERIOR

I

n a world increasingly obsessed with perfection, the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi offers a refreshing antidote.

Rooted in Zen Buddhism, Wabi-Sabi celebrates the beauty in imperfection, transience, and simplicity. It teaches us to find charm in the irregular, honour the old and worn, and appreciate the natural cycle of growth and decay. When applied to home interiors, Wabi Sabi encourages the creation of spaces that are comfortable, calm, and profoundly mindful. Here’s how you can bring this philosophy into your home by blending new and old furnishings and embracing natural colours, textures, and layers.

The Essence of Wabi-Sabi in Home Decor.

Wabi-Sabi isn’t about clutter or neglect; it’s about thoughtful curation. The first step in creating a Wabi-Sabi-inspired home is to declutter, keeping only what is necessary or meaningful. This doesn't mean stripping your space to cold minimalism but rather finding a balance that feels both functional and serene.

Combining New and Old Pieces. A WabiSabi home is a harmonious blend of the new and the old. Incorporating vintage or antique pieces can add a sense of history and character.

A weathered wooden table, a faded Persian rug, or a hand-me-down armchair can serve as focal points that ground the space in a sense

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of continuity and tradition. These items, with their visible signs of age and use, tell stories and evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Pair these with new, thoughtfully chosen items that complement the old. For instance, a sleek modern sofa can sit comfortably next to an antique coffee table, creating a dynamic contrast that feels both contemporary and timeless. The key is to avoid an overly polished look. Embrace the quirks and imperfections of each piece. This blend not only adds visual interest but also imbues your home with a lived-in, authentic feel.

The Power of Natural Colours. The WabiSabi colour palette is inspired by nature. Think of the muted greens of moss, the earthy browns of aged wood, the soft greys of river stones, and the warm whites of weathered bone. These colours create a soothing, tranquil environment that fosters relaxation and mindfulness.

When choosing colours for your home, opt for those that evoke a sense of calm and connection to the natural world. Natural, earthy tones can be used on walls, furniture, and textiles to create a cohesive and serene atmosphere. Avoid bold, flashy colours that can feel jarring and out of place in a Wabi-Sabi space, let the subtle variations and textures of natural materials bring depth and interest to

Textiles should also be natural and unpretentious. Linen and cotton in neutral tones add softness and comfort, while wool and jute bring a rustic charm. Layering these textiles - throws on couches, rugs on floors, cushions on chaircreates a cozy, lived-in feel that invites relaxation.

Creating Timeless Spaces. Wabi-Sabi is inherently timeless. Its principles reject the transient nature of trends in favour of enduring beauty and functionality. When designing your home with Wabi-Sabi in mind, focus on creating spaces that will age gracefully and continue to bring joy over time.

Invest in quality pieces that you love and that serve a purpose. Avoid the temptation to fill your home with trendy items that will quickly become dated. Instead, choose pieces with a timeless appeal, even if they show signs of wear. A patina on metal, a crack in pottery, or a faded fabric can all add to the charm and authenticity of your home.

Mindful Living. Ultimately, Wabi-Sabi is about living mindfully. It’s about appreciating the beauty in the everyday and finding joy in simplicity. By incorporating Wabi-Sabi principles into your home, you create a space that is not only beautiful but also nurturing and calming. It’s a reminder to slow down, savour the present moment, and embrace the perfectly imperfect nature of life. In doing so, your home becomes a sanctuary of peace and a true reflection of your inner self.

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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?

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Personalised Care Programs

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A Welcoming Environment

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Expert Team

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Continuous GP Support

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Chef Prepared Meals

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Respite Care

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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 126 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

128 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus