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175 OCTOBER 2020
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100 Hastings100 River Hastings Drive, Port Macquarie River Drive, 6583 8855 PortDL8071 Macquarie www.mbportmacquari 6583 8855 e.com.au DL8071 www.
100 Hastings100 River Hastings Drive, Port Macquarie River Drive, 6583 8855 PortDL8071 Macquarie www.mbportmacquarie.com.au 6583 8855 DL8071 www. 2 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Sarah Wright 0423 250 974
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MORE THAN JUST ANOTHER AGENT In a changing market, the importance of thinking outside the box to solve a clients’ problems is more important than ever. At HEM, the experienced team have weathered the storms in all market conditions. With the combined skills and knowledge to better navigate every market and assess each individual’s situation, they create a personalised plan designed to meet your needs and get you the best, overall result. It starts with honest, accurate pricing, combined with the right advice on preparing the home, innovative, effective marketing and importantly, working together to ensure all clients get a superior service, the right result and a stress-free move to the next home. I put a lot of pressure on myself to achieve both a smooth sales process and a great result for all my clients. The key to achieving this is in the relationships you create. By listening to people, understanding what it is they really want or need and offering a genuine care factor about their move, I feel can make a difference. Essentially, all agents have the same tools and in the tech savvy world we live in, anyone can organise photos or put a home on the internet. But my role is way more than just providing slick marketing. It’s my experience and knowledge, combined with the extra time and effort I put in with every person that is the difference between a sold sign and a GREAT result. At HEM, I’ve discovered that being a part of a united, skilled team of agents, who all share a common philosophy and approach that focuses purely on the people we work for, all my clients feel confident and reassured that they are in safe hands.
So if it’s MORE THAN just another agent and a sold sticker you are seeking on your next move, make sure you contact Sarah Wright and find your happy ever more.
02 6583 2324 hemproperty.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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t Welcome to the October issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.
B
usy, busy, busy. Everyone is very busy! It’s exciting, a little daunting, and totally unexpected - not just for us, but a lot of businesses in
town. There is now doubt we are in for a big October with the school holidays. If you are a visitor reading, then welcome! Please enjoy our beautiful towns and learn about our region through these pages. And for our regulars - enjoy this absolutely monster edition of FOCUS! It’s good to be back! Inside This Edition - Snapshot Twelve months is a long period of time, but not long enough to forget the grey haze, red sky and ferocious fires that were to come with the horrific "Black Summer" bushfire season of 2019/20. NSW Forestry Corporation have again provided us with valuable insight into the works being carried out to restore our State Forests.
They introduce us to key staff who are heading NSW Holiday Guide up projects around the region, and we explore We understand the impact and effect some of these projects in more depth. COVID-19has had on international and Anthony Mahr is a local whose strength and domestic travel, so we took the opportunity determination are pushing to showcase what’s on him forward despite a vision offer in regional NSW this Most of us impairment. He’s training month, featuring places to have spent a hard to compete in his first visit, shop, eat and play. lot of time at home Ironman 70.3 when the Most of us have spent over the last few race season gets the green a lot of time at home light to go ahead; plus, he’s months, and it’s time over the last few months, been busy learning to ride a and it’s time to get out to get out and horse! and explore the amazing explore the amazing We also get to meet artist backyard that is the Mid backyard that is the Carly Marchment in this North Coast. Mid North Coast. edition, whose life drawings While out and about, are truly beautiful pieces of please remember to stay work. safe, patient and kind to There are so many more inspiring stories in all you meet. our pages this month - so enjoy! Until next month! Inside this jam packed edition you'll find the:
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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au
contacts. MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au ONLINE EDITIONS Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joseph Dable joey@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Jo Robinson rnrmedia@bigpond.com EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Claire Dunkley Claire@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@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 2020 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.
contents Issue 175 - October 2020 INTERVIEWS
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ANTHONY MAHR
CRAIG JAMES
Anthony Mahr is vision impaired, but his resilience and perseverance have made him hungry to compete and achieve personal goals that might seem out of reach.
Renowned CommSec Chief Economist Craig James returns to Port Macquarie on the 9th October for a presentation following the Federal Government Economic Report.
OUR CONTRIBUTORS 23. Alex Cassegrain - Wine Time 38. Nathan Tomkins - Cocktail of the Month
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CATRIONA POLLARD
Basketry artist and teacher Catriona Pollard’s unique sculptural work offers glimpses of shapeshifting natural forms that celebrate the abundance of nature.
S P EC IA L F E AT U R E
45. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 48. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 68. Peta Pinson, Mayor - A Moment with the Mayor 80. Shannon Lawrence - Healthful Wisdom CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH
MICHAEL PERCIVAL
Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.
83. Vanessa Lawrence - The Style Vibe Savvy 99. David Ross - Money Matters 106. Michael Mowle - Business Voice 109. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate 123. Meet our Members - HBWN 135. Michael Percival - Real Estate News 139. Jess and Ash - Refresh with Sess and Sass
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t i ti t Follow us on
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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus
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AC H I E VI NG OUTS TAN D I NG OUTCOM E S
ALLY DOWNING Ally is a licensed real estate agent with 28 years sales experience. Her effective
SE LLI NG W ITH E XPE R TISE AN D CON F I D E NC E
dream property. Ally is achieving
So fortunate to be supported and guided by Ally and her team in selling our property during a time of uncertainty. Ally demonstrated a high level of knowledge and professionalism, and maintained consistent communication throughout the process of selling our property. So grateful to Ally for such a positive experience, and giving us the confidence and reassurance to help us reach our next stage in life.
outstanding outcomes for her
- Stephen Shaw & Joanna Nel (vendor) 9 Somerset Place, Port Macquarie
clients, could you be next?
ALLY DOWNING 0417 929 726
communication, sales and marketing skills equip her with the necessary tools to successfully help her clients on their journey of buying and selling their
SALES 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 8606 I www.percival.com.au
OCTOBER 2020
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What's
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ARTWALK 2020
Join us as we create the longest footpath art gallery in the CBDs of Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton from Thursday 1st to Thursday 8th October 2020. We are taking ArtWalk on to the streets and into local businesses, by encouraging artists to use shop front windows as their very own gallery for a week.
7 CREATIVE CITIZEN PROJECT 2020 Charles Sturt University, in partnership with The Whitlam Institute and Port MacquarieHastings Council, will host the Creative Citizen Project at the Glasshouse over 7th - 8th October, 2020. Applications are now open for this free, two-day workshop program, open to 15 - 30 year-olds. The workshops will cover civics and citizenship, design thinking and citizen journalism skills. We will also be joined by the Hon. Bob Carr. More info designpracticeresearch.org/ccp
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BOARDROOM LUNCH WITH CRAIG JAMES
We're thrilled to return to our boardroom lunches, with Craig James, CommSec Chief Economist, brought to us by the CBA, to talk about the state of the national economy and review the Federal Government's economic report, to be released just a few days before our event. Friday, October 9, 2020 at 12pm UTC+11 - 2pm UTC+11 at Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges. Public - hosted by Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce. Tickets portchamber.com.au/event
10 PAM HATA AT THE BLACK DUCK Cheap Eats at The Black Duck Brewery are graced with stunning local talent Pam Hata. Due to popular demand, we now offer two session times, 12:30pm and 2:30pm. C-19 health laws apply. Places are limited. Saturday 10th October. Book now to avoid disappointment on 0487 533 841.
SPRING INTO SCAVENGE Keen to clean-up Port Mac, maybe win a prize and pick up some waste-wise knowledge whilst you’re at it? Perfect … Because we’ve got a virtual scavenge happening. How’s it work? Register through the Eventbrite http://bit.ly/ EventbritePortMac - tune into FB live stream from 9am on 17th October to hear some live interviews and the runsheet for the day - conduct a clean-up on 17th Oct around Port Mac - sort and catalogue the litter you collect into the JotForm link in Eventbrite - tune in to Seaside Scavenge FB Live at 4:30pm to find out who the winners are! There you go! COVID style scavenging!
18 RIDE FOR PINK Ride for Pink to raise awareness and funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation - ride from the Royal Hotel, Kew to The Lakeside Tavern, Forster. Grab your mates, dress you and your bike/car in pink for a fun day fundraiser. Help raise funds towards life saving research - our goal is zero deaths from breast cancer by 2030. Help save your wife, sister, girlfriend, daughter or yourself. Sunday, October 18, 2020, 9am - 3:30pm.
www.hellokoalas.com
sCulPtUre tRaiL New
A n1 -no nou N cing i 2017a B rawww.hellokoalas.com/festival nd neW Home f or t h e Hel lo Ko alas Scul pTure Tr ail 11 uNc June
Hello Koalas tReE Unit 16, 10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie
hOusE & sHoP
Find special souvenirs commemorating a visit to Port Macquarie or a unique gift for family and friends for any occasion. Christmas is around the corner!
tEa ToWel
cOloUrIng bOok
2021 CalEnDarS
Featuring Koalasaurus–MAX, Wollemia, Charlie Botanic Horticulturist, New 2021 edition Asha, Frankie Firefighter, Chief - Westpac Rescue Helicopter Pilot
colouring c
2021 CALENDAR
CREATE YOUR OWN COLOURS ON 77 UNIQUE HELLO KOALAS SCULPTURE DESIGNS 2021 highlight hello koalas festival 25-26 sep 2021
www.hellokoalas.com
Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail
©
Port Macquarie NSW Australia
Asha
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wHy NoT cOlLecT alL 77 MagNeTs!
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pLus hEllO KoaLaS lIbRarY BagS, TotE BagS, BooKmArkS, StiCkeRs, LenS CloThS aNd heApS mOrE iN StoRe!
aSha tHe TreE aS oF lIFe by artist Yvonne Kiely
nEW hEllO kOaLas sCuLptUreS
for Summer
“cHieF” The wEstPaC wE rEsCue hEliCoPteR hEliC PilOt
fRanKiE fIreFiGhtEr
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by artists Kim and Wayne Staples
by artist Pauline Roods
by artist Pauline Roods
sAY “hElLo” To SoMe Of ouR ResIdEnt hEllO kOaLas sCulPtUreS IncLuDinG fRaNkiE fIrEfiGhTer aNd SeE oUr exClUsiVe raNgE oF MemOrAbiLIa. Hours of Opening: Tues, Wed, Thurs 10am - 3pm or by appointment - phone 0416 641 482 or email info@hellokoalas.com. At other times, if the lights are on, just knock on the door!
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CARLY M A RC H M ENT
Carly Marchment is a life drawing artist residing in the beautiful coastal town of Crescent Head. Driven to live a life of expressive authenticity, her fine art certainly reflects the creative within.
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i Carly. Please introduce yourself and share your connection to the region. Hi there. My name is Carly Marchment Supple. I am an artist living in Crescent Head on the North Coast of NSW. I was born in 1980 and have lived in the Macleay Valley for most of my life. On my father's side, my heritage goes back to Francis Marchment (1843 - 1923). He was a trader who carried goods up the Hastings River to Wauchope and beyond before roads were built in the region. My father was born in Port Macquarie and lived in Wauchope all his life. He was a musician and played in many different bands and venues across the Hastings and beyond from the 1960s onwards. His creativity has manifested itself in me, albeit in a different field of the arts. My mother was born in Macksville, and the family moved to live along the Crescent Head
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Road when she was three years old. I now live on the land that my mother's family bought in the 1950s. This family history creates strong ties to both the Macleay and the Hastings regions. Tell us about your life drawing and fine art career and how you got started in that industry. My love of life drawing started at high school, having the most enthusiastic and dedicated teachers who gave us access to life drawing after hours in our school art department. I was instantly drawn to the female form and from that point on, wanted to capture its structure and gesture, which are the two major elements of life drawing. My high school major artwork was a series of five nudes on canvas that was pre-selected for the prestigious ARTEXPRESS. Upon completion of my Year 12 studies, I was awarded a full scholarship to Griffith University on the Gold Coast to study for a
degree in fine arts. This enabled me to continue to practice my life drawing for the next three years. After finishing university, my sister became my model, and that allowed further practice in life drawing. To be a full-time artist was always the dream from a very young age. After completing university and many years of employment that were totally unrelated to my degree, it took a workplace accident and the progression of a genetic disease called FSHD (a rare form of muscular dystrophy) to really throw me in the direction of my dream of a career in art and to commit to it completely. Once I had made that decision, which was absolutely, mind blowingly scary, in a very short period of time doors have opened up, or I have opened them! I have had awesome support along the way. What inspires you most, and how do you express that creatively? The world around me inspires me. I see through an artist's eyes all day long. I'm inspired by connection, form, and organic objects! Life! When I paint or study my reference subject, I feel like I become better and better at tapping into my creative brain. I've always been driven to be better, to see more and then to express that in my art making.
What is your favourite piece to date and why? My favourite piece is usually the one I am working on at the time. I think if I don't feel that in the process, then I The world know it's not working around me completely. Having said that, don't get me inspires me. I see Gladstone Hub. Tell us wrong, in every single about this experience through an artist's painting I do there is and what's available eyes all day long. a point where I don't for your guests. I'm inspired by want to continue; I feel Yes, I opened my connection, form, stuck, frustrated. So, gallery/studio at the and organic perseverance comes into Gladstone Hub in August objects! Life! the picture at this point, last year. From being and I am always so out there in the space, I glad that I have pushed had conversations with through that period; because, it really does pay people and customers and community as to off! As I say, I have no one favourite, but if a what I could offer, and life drawing classes work has any tone of green in it, I'm inclined to was the one I got excited about - knowing I love it more. might be able to bring like-minded individuals This is a process and a strategy that I together to connect and share in a mutual love encourage in my classes, and the satisfying of the human form. The classes have grown in outcome for both myself and my students is popularity, and I have been very lucky that the extraordinary. inspiring and talented models for the class have You run life drawing classes at the approached me wanting to be a part of it. >>> GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Actually, I really had no preconceived ideas of what direction the gallery would take, except I knew having my works on walls that people could see was better than filling up my walls at home. I just knew this was the starting point, and I would let it emerge organically from there. Every week I put my heart and soul into every class I run, and I'm I found I loved motivated to create the being able to most beautiful atmosphere work and become using models, music and immersed, yet still mood lighting within the connect with people stunning space that is the gallery, surrounded in while I worked. paint. Painting is also how I timber and fine art. communicate! We can also find Where can we find your you doing live art beautiful work or book for an art class? performances. What is it you love about At the moment we offer a 10 week block connecting your art with the community? of classes in line with the school term at the I am very excited to be involved in ArtWalk Port Gladstone Hub. They are on every Thursday Macquarie again this year, working in conjunction evening from 6 - 8pm. We are now offering a with several other talented local artists. We are monthly Friday night one-off class from 6 - 8pm, setting up at The Hollow Store in Murray Street. plus one-off classes during the school holidays. Until I did ArtWalk 2019 and saw and felt the Tickets and information are available on my response to an artist working openly on their website or on Facebook. craft, allowing the community to experience and www.carlymarchmentartist.com see a little of the processes that go into creating, @carlymarchmentartist I hadn't done much live art connected to that Thanks Carly. side of the creation process. I found I loved being able to work and become immersed, yet still connect with people while I worked. The public having access to artists during their process is so special and connects the artist to the viewer in another way. Connection is a huge reason why I
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Soul
When men and women from all walks of life come together and share stories and experiences as equals, there's a connection and expression of emotion in positive ways. A disconnect from the outside world is an amazing way to reconnect. Corey and Loren Enfield are fulfilling this need in our community, with the Soul Brothers and Soul Sisters retreats about to kick off in November.
BROTHERS & SISTERS
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SOUL BROTHERS
i Corey. Soul Brothers 2020 is the first of its kind; congrats on taking that step. Tell us your vision behind the retreat and how it’s come to
fruition. Thank you and yes, it’s a new step and one that has me a little nervous. Nervous, because it's not something I have done before, nor am I entirely sure how the content will be received. In saying that though, I know deep down that it's something I need to do, because I am ultimately here to give love and care for others - we all are. It's a leap of faith for sure! This day is about holding a safe space for men to experience, share, breathe, release, learn and connect ... Connect with themselves and other brothers, who all have their own vulnerabilities and life experiences. I don’t have all the answers, so I’ve gone and found others whom I trust to be able to help piece this puzzle together that we call life. There’s never one answer or one path; we need to find the tools that help us navigate the challenges we all face. Some of them are deep challenges - others easy to solve. The 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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facilitators on the day will share knowledge of these places to want to grow and move and wisdom from a large range of topics; forward either. It’s the healthy, well balanced it's up to you to find what rings true to your men we need to stay in that state of being for heart. our kids, family, friends and community as a We generally live in a very masculine whole. state of being. Why’s What's on offer over it so important for the weekend for those our men to take time who sign up? out to connect and We’ll start early, do There’s never recharge? some breath work, have one answer or Both men and women a surf (any skill level), fire one path; we need to live on the masculine circle (what’s said in the find the tools that help side a little too much. circle stays in the circle), us navigate the It's been great to see workshops covering: challenges we all face. the women’s groups the present moment, Some of them are around the region ego, Karma, further deep challenges doing fantastic things breath work, and it’s still others easy to solve. and those women evolving. The event is empowering themselves also fully catered. Just and growing. bring yourself as you are. It's important for us men to grow too. I’ve When is Soul Brothers happening, and seen and heard many stories of marriage how can we book our spot? break ups, depression, and worst case Sunday 8th November, and it runs the suicide. It's devastating to see when it may whole day. The day will cost $195. To book, only take one conversation or one bit of contact me on 0428 480 266, wisdom or knowledge to start the process email corey@soulsurfing.com.au or visit back from these dark places. Facebook @Soul Surfing Port Macquarie. It doesn’t mean you need to be in one Thanks Corey.
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i Loren. Soul Sisters is now in its eighth year. How has the retreat grown over time, and what are you most proud of? Soul Sisters is coming up to eight years next year! We all grow and change in life, and so too has Soul Sisters. From one really full day of magic in these women's retreats, it has grown to two massive days of joy. Nearly four years ago women didn't want to leave and wanted more, so we made more. There is so much juicy good stuff to share, that we could easily grow further. So, now you have the choice to select a one or two day option. Every single retreat over the eight years has been unique. The differing local women that often repeatedly come and facilitate over the years always bring something new to share and experience. No two retreats are ever the same, except for starting each day with surfing; well, no wave is ever repeated. The list for things to be proud of is huge! I'll mention a couple of things: Many women repeat a Soul Sisters retreat, and many of those, more than once. It's such an uplifting soulful feeling, that you want to reconnect and do it again! Creating a space where women gather in a circle and weave a nurturing, gentle love together. Women have gathered like this from ancient times, so to share this space with
SOUL SISTERS women is very special. Seeing the positive changes in women months down the track when I see them again. Many are growing the seeds they planted at Soul Sisters and beginning to bloom. The fact that I dreamt and created this event and brought it to fruition. Go follow your dreams of the heart! Why is it so important as women to give ourselves time to recharge and fill our cups? Serving humankind is one of the greatest gifts we can share. Women are remarkable at constantly giving their energy to others. However, if we become out of balance, if we continue to pour from an empty cup, then no one gains. That divine love spark fades, and negative emotions and reactions can creep in. The joy of living can become hard to find. Disease emotionally, spiritually and physically can manifest. Modern pressures of life can be very draining, and many women can feel at a loss. Reconnecting to self, other women and a like-minded community can be so uplifting, healing and empowering. Soul Sisters is here to help fill your cup again, light a way forward, or just take a well deserved break and time-out. Imagine if the world spent more time lifting each other up, instead of pulling each other down! What can we expect from Port's favourite retreat this year?
Favourite? That's a lovely honour. Thank you. There are so many wonderful avenues and events if you find them of people doing remarkable things to heal and uplift. I am grateful to them all. However, I personally love expanding from my personal tools of surfing, yoga and heart based wisdom and philosophy to inspire and assist others. I love being a role model to my four children (and husband) to chase their dreams and to care for others and self every day. At this next retreat we immerse ourselves in surf lessons, yoga sessions, Indigenous wisdom, art, guided relaxations, circle activities, nature adventure and more. We start at the beach and then head off to our hinterland for the rest of the awesome day. It is easily accessible for complete beginners and those more advanced at surfing and yoga. When is Soul Sisters happening, and how can we book our spot? The weekend of November 14th and 15th is our next event. If it fills (as numbers are strictly limited) we will be sure to set up the next date as soon as possible. To secure your place or find out more information, email me at loren@ soulsurfing.com.au or call 0422 957 482. Also, watch this space for a greater number of retreats to come: kids, adults and family disconnect to reconnect camps. Facebook @Soul Surfing Port Macquarie. Thanks Loren. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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wine TIME
with ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines
Around 45 minutes northwest of Rylstone to Mudgee, you will find many fantastic wineries and vineyards.
O
ne in particular that From a winemaking point of view, has always had a that’s a fantastic attribute and great name but in something we really look for in recent years has our fruit. stood out amongst the crowd is The flagship wine, at least for Robert Stein Wines. The vineyard me, would have to be their 2019 was planted by Robert Stein riesling, which has in consecutive himself in 1976 and whilst the years come home with several winery has expanded over the trophies and medals. This wine years, it is still very much focused has an impeccable aromatic on high quality profile, with grapes sourced zesty lemon, Still considered from its own lime, followed a boutique property. Still by hints of winery, the considered a pretty floral winemaker plays boutique winery, notes. The quite a hands-on the winemaker palate is fruit role, which results in plays quite a driven and hands-on role, my opinion, in high supported by which results, quality wines with a fine acid in my opinion, plenty of character. structure in high quality that makes wines with everyone’s plenty of character. mouth water and gives the wine a The unique site is similar to Rylstone, which I touched on last month - where they have warm days, allowing fruit flavour and sugar development, but cool nights, allowing the retention of the acid profile and producing elegant and nuanced wines.
great ability to be paired with such a versatile range of Asian cruises. Their riesling sells out very quickly and is always very consistent year to year. Of course, this is with the exception of vintage and weather variations but then again, that’s the exciting part! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Anthony MAHR
Anthony Mahr's resilience and perseverance are to be commended. Living with a vision impairment has made him hungry to compete and achieve personal goals that would seem out of reach for many. We caught up with Anthony, to find out a little more about his life and what he’s working towards.
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i Anthony. You're one of Port Macquarie's vibrant community members. Please introduce yourself and share your connection
to our region. Hi, I’m Anthony Mahr, and I've lived in Port for the past two years. Due to my wife Chloe’s rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, we had to move to a warmer climate from the Blue Mountains for health reasons, and to be closer to Chloe’s family for extra support. I suppose you could say I moved here to continue my fitness goals and to enjoy a different lifestyle! I’m a remedial massage therapist at Wauchope Physiotherapy Sports and Rehab Centre. You have a vision impairment, but that certainly doesn't hold you back. You are passionate about training and keeping fit
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I suppose you could say I moved here to continue my fitness goals and to enjoy a different lifestyle!
- all with Shadow by your side. Tell us about this. If I could answer that one in reverse, Shadow, like his predecessors, value-adds to my lifestyle on so many levels. Having him affords me better access to independence and the wider community. Guide dogs are highly trained and sensitive to spatial awareness. For example, he can find me a seat, traffic lights and avoid poles, and stops to alert me when there are stairs coming. That’s why it’s important others understand about not distracting working dogs while they are harnessed. If distracted, I could walk in front of a car or into a pole, so it's important the public don’t pay Shadow any attention and only talk to me and keep their dogs away on
a lead while he is working. Shadow enables mobility in a safe and achievable way, whilst still communicating back when he thinks things may be out of kilter. His sense of caution has seen me almost striding up the wrong driveway on the odd occasion (either that, or he just has a wicked sense of humour). Still, one of us needs to be cautious - I’m mostly about taking and overcoming new challenges, most of which were either previously thought of as insurmountable, or not even thought of. Commitment to my fitness - mental, physical and emotional - are what allows me to pursue my goals. Right now, that’s competing in the Port Macquarie Half Ironman 2021. Take us back to when you first got involved in triathlons and what gets you
focus_interview excited about it. I first started getting interested in triathlons when I decided to volunteer for the Port Macquarie Ironman in 2019 providing massage. I had a few friends in the event, so that first taste of the Ironman is what grabbed my attention! I guess I’ve always been a bit competitive. Like many growing up with an impairment of any kind in mainstream society, it’s usually a story of ongoing struggle and eventual adaptation. Things are improving, but change is slow. So, resilience was born from a young age. Small victories begin to mean a lot and leave you hungry for more. For me, sport was the nourishment here. I got involved in blind athletics, swimming, My running tandem cycling, blind cricket journey began and goalball, culminating with the 5 km in a 2003 stint playing parkrun event back representative blind cricket in Lawson in the at a state level. Here, the Blue Mountains, with cricket ball has a bell inside groom, take off their guided assistance. I it, so you listen to hit it, as rugs and wash them. well as hopefully avoiding have also ridden Over time I have uninvited contact. However, bicycles - single and also learnt how to just like in real cricket, the tandem - for most of trot confidently and ball doesn’t always read the manage my balance my life. script, and injuries follow. It while riding and is also graded by different steering. Occasionally levels of vision impairment. I had a horse named Gus, who would One of my greatest moments was catching sometimes decide to test me by going the out a batsmen with a much higher rated level next level up - which is to canter when I least of vision than mine. I was later told it was expected it. Quite the thrill, as I’m a bit of an lucky I am already blind, as his glare would adrenaline junkie! The thing I enjoy the most is have burnt through my eyeballs. This made me spending time with them, as I love animals. smile. What are you looking forward to most for My running journey began with the the rest of the year and into 2021? 5 km parkrun event back in Lawson in the Blue I’m really looking forward to competing in Mountains, with guided assistance. I have also the 2021 Port Macquarie 70.3 Half Ironman ridden bicycles - single and tandem - for most across the three disciplines: 1.9 km swim, of my life. The progression to triathlons has 90 km ride and 21.1 km run. These will be been part of a largely unplanned but inevitable done while tethered to one of my guides and journey. Funny how the universe rolls, huh? training partner, Kevin Stringer. I also want You are equally passionate about horse to compete in duathlon and triathlon events riding. How long have you been riding, leading up to the 70.3 event. This is all made and what do you enjoy most about it? possible through my NDIS plan. Funding from I have been riding for almost two years, it is vital in assisting those with disabilities to at Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre at achieve not only their respective goals, but also Cassegrain Wines. I have gone from someone having basic needs - often taken for granted who didn’t know much about horses and - met. riding, to someone who now rides different I’d like to take this chance to send a big horses, learnt how to saddle, clean hooves, shout out to my support team!
They all combine to make me feel increasingly confident about being at the start line. Other things I am looking forward to include spending more time with my beautiful wife and software whiz, Chloe. She continues to provide unconditional support while dealing with her own challenges and has made herself indispensable over 15 years of a really great marriage and partnership. And my mother, Jeanette Mahr, who is planning on moving closer to Port Macquarie in 2021. It was she who first introduced me to the real meaning of resilience and overcoming adversity. Mum has been a fantastic role model and advocate in my life, so returning this by having her see me achieve my goals firsthand is an intensely proud moment for both of us. I really couldn’t achieve this huge goal without my team and the public's continued support and cheers from the sidelines, as we train around town and beyond! Lastly, I would like to mention that team Blind Ambition are seeking sponsors to help with bike gear and servicing, wetsuits and other important equipment needed to complete in the 2021 Half Ironman and to keep us safe while in training. You can like us on Facebook at Anthony’s 703 and contact us there if you would like to assist us in achieving this goal. Thanks Anthony. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Covid CONQUERERS
INTERVIEW SERIES
Seed
CREATIVE AIMEE AND JEN
S
o far 2020 has been a year we will never forget. If you had to put it into a sentence for a story, what would it say? A roller coaster year of challenges, problem solving and new opportunities, expanding the business in a fresh new direction. What changes did you have to make in your business, and what lasting effect does it have on your customers - positive or negative? In March we sadly had to close the studio doors. Our students were unable to finish the term at The Seed, so we had to come up with a way to deliver art classes at home. We packed up art materials for parents to collect and finished the term with online classes. Parents were then contacting us begging for activities to keep the kids occupied during lockdown, and people were keen to take up a new hobby to fill their time. We developed art kits with live classes and virtual paint parties to keep people connected and creating, hand delivering them locally and posting outside the region. This was a big learning curve, reimagining how to deliver our programs online and get supplies to our customers. We now offer a range of kits in various mediums and all the supplies you need to create at home, with instructions and video tutorials. Our customers 26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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What kept us
have mostly been health can sometimes sane was impacted by our initial take a back seat with a staying in touch with closure, but overall this busy workload. Having our students and time has allowed us to additional staff allows us Seed family virtually, revamp the studio and to share the workload keeping people create exciting new and have more time connected and programs and products with loved ones and to helping them embrace people are loving! focus on our own artistic a new hobby. How did you manage pursuits. the mental load, and Where to next for your what kept you sane business? throughout the challenging few months? We are back open and busy helping our It’s been a very stressful time, and we have customers grow creatively! COVID Safe been busier than ever learning and juggling this workshops, term classes, private parties and new normal. The success of our art kits allowed holiday programs are in full swing! We have us to take on more staff, and we were thrilled some exciting ArtWalk collaborations happening to offer them work during these uncertain and this month, with fun events at the studio and an difficult times. installation at Chop n Chill created by our afterWhat kept us sane was staying in touch with school students! We are continuing to deliver our students and Seed family virtually, keeping our art kits to families all across NSW, reaching people connected and helping them embrace out to offer art supplies and virtual lessons to a new hobby. As artists, we know the positive people in rural based communities who can’t effects creativity can have on mental health; as easily access them. Picasso says, “Art washes away from the soul, How can locals support your business? the dust of everyday life”! Come and attend a workshop, book the kids The journey through this for our businesses in for art classes or holiday programs, or grab has been a roller coaster, but what about an art kit to make some magic at home! Get our personal lives? Are there any changes together six or more of your favourite people you'll be sticking to over the rest of the and celebrate creatively with a private party! Tell year? your friends and family about your experiences Focusing on good mental and physical at The Seed and share the love!
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Greg
Covid CONQUERERS
INTERVIEW SERIES
SMIT H
you would be OK - and there is no need to panic. The journey through this for our businesses The thought of has been a happened. So, it's been a very everything you rollercoaster, positive thing for them and us. have worked for and but what about How did you manage the built over 16 years our personal mental load, and what kept possibly falling apart lives? Are there you sane throughout the due to a pandemic any changes challenging few months? which has happened you'll be It was strange, as I think I through no fault of sticking to over went through a few phases. In your own was quite the rest of the the beginning I was relieved, year? because we are always under mentally draining. I am involved tight deadlines, so I was happy in a Men's for things to quieten down and catch up. But then the reality started to set in as Mental Health group called Self Seen, and we are helping a lot of people struggling, especially to whether this would last for a long time, and during these crazy times. The pressures of work I will honestly say it does start to play on your and life are ever increasing; I am trying to get mind ... a better work/life balance and ensure I look The thought of everything you have worked after my health physically and mentally, so I can for and built over 16 years possibly falling handle those pressures in a positive way. apart due to a pandemic which has happened Where to next for your business? through no fault of your own was quite We have done so much in the past 12 mentally draining. months, investing in new equipment and But once you open up and start to discuss training staff, so I think for now it will be where you are at and make lists of what the about fine tuning operations and continuing to priorities are in the business, you get a clearer improve our decoration methods. picture of things and realise if you can keep Thanks Greg. your staff, tread water and get through this,
C O N S TA B L E S C R E E N P R I N T I N G AND EMBROIDERY
S
o far 2020 has been a year we will never forget. If you had to put it into a sentence for a story, what would it say? 2020 - the year to rethink what is most important in our lives and how lucky we are to just have our health and the freedoms we enjoy every day. What changes did you have to make in your business, and what lasting effect does it have on your customers - positive or negative? We didn’t have to make any huge changes, but we put the downtime to good use by reviewing our operational procedures and doing staff training. We put our two senior staff at home, as we felt they were most at risk, and that enabled the younger staff to step up into the senior roles for a while, and I guess get the opportunity to see if what they have learnt is enough and see the areas where they still need training. Both staff members have now gained a lot of confidence and without the Coronavirus situation occurring, this might not have
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Miedecke M OT O R GRO UP C E L E B R AT I N G 4 0 Y E A R S
Forty years in business is an amazing milestone. Miedecke Motor Group has come a long way since starting with 10 cars and three and a half staff members ... now it's time for George to take on the family business and continue the proud work of his father, Andrew.
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ANDREW
Miedecke
H
i Andrew. Congratulations on 40 years since starting Miedecke Motors. Take us back to the beginning, and share your vision
with us. Thanks, it’s a real pleasure. It kind of creeps up on you - it only feels like yesterday that I bought Bellbowrie Motors, but here we are 40 years on. I had been living in Sydney, selling cars at City Ford, and I really just wanted to work for myself. I didn’t have a lot of money, so I started looking for opportunities. There was one in Broken Hill, and one in Port Macquarie - turned out to be a pretty easy choice! My plan originally was to build up the business, sell and get back to the city, but I just fell in love with Port Macquarie and have lived here ever since. I’ve been lucky enough to partner with some great brands, and that has led to the fantastic growth we’ve had over the past few decades, and the growth and change of the town during that time has only helped. How many cars did you start out with in the yard, compared to how many are here
My plan originally was to build up the business, sell and get back to the city, but I just fell in love with Port Macquarie and have lived here ever since.
now? Great question! I probably had around 10 or 12 cars on the lot back then, and three and a half employees. I look back at the photos of those days, and I can’t believe how far we’ve come. I started off as a Volvo and Honda dealer on Gordon Street, until I got the opportunity to become a Ford dealer, when I moved to the corner of Gordon and Hastings River Drive - then on to the current site that we occupy now on Hastings River Drive. These days the stock fluctuates a bit, but on a given month we sell between 250 - 300 cars between the two dealerships - quite a change from 1980! In the 40 years of business, what are you most proud of? The relationships I’ve had with the people working with us, and the obvious pride they
have in what we’ve built. We’ve got many employees who have been with the business over 10, 15 and 20 years - and that speaks for itself and just reassures us that we do a good job of providing a great work environment for people to get their job done and support their families. With your son, George taking over the reins and retirement officially here, what will be the first thing you do? Retirement! I’m not sure I’m ready for that just yet. I’ve taken a lot of satisfaction from organising the purchase of Taree Volkswagen, and I’m still the dealer representative to a few of our manufacturers. I’m planning a bike ride with my friends and might take some time off next year. You never know, though! Thanks Andrew. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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G EO RG E
Miedecke
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i George. Congratulations on your new venture within the company. How excited are you about continuing your
father's legacy? Thanks! It’s been a whirlwind. I hadn’t long taken the reins when the bushfires hit, then the virus - so there’s definitely been a bit to adapt to in the last 12 months! I’ve been working here on and off since I was a kid though, so it feels like a second home to me. Celebrating 40 years of business in Port Macquarie is great, because it kind of feels like a new chapter for me and for the dealership. We have this great history, and 30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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dealerships lose sight of that - and it doesn’t matter if it’s a used car, your first MG3 or a Mercedes-Benz - it is a huge, huge deal. If we can make that a fun experience and exceed people’s expectations, then that would really We’ve grown make me happy. If we with Port and, are doing a good job just like the town, are and the customers enjoy poised to take a big the interaction, then the now it’s time for new step forward, with rest should take care of energy and a new our renovations due itself. direction, looking to start next year. Another big part of forward to the next this business is where 40. we live. We are proud to What do you see as live in Port Macquarie (I your most important values in running a was born here) and I feel that is a really big business? part of our identity. We’ve grown with Port For me, honesty and integrity are at and, just like the town, are poised to take a the core of what we do, along with old fashioned customer service. We don’t always big step forward, with our renovations due to start next year. I’m excited to present the get it right, but we do our best, and I am new, improved face of the dealership to the really proud to be able to say that! town! If I can have an impact on anything, I In the end, I feel lucky to have the hope it’s the customer experience. Buying opportunity to make an impact on the future a car is a massive choice, often the largest of the business. purchase outside of buying a home. A lot of
Your business is not all about car sales. Miedecke Motor Group employs many locals to fill the roles required to run such a large scale business. What are some of the different departments under the Miedecke Motor Group banner? It blows my mind when I remember that we employ over 120 people on the Mid North Coast. Being able to provide safe, stable employment and income to over a hundred local families is a real buzz. Part of that is the fact that the business has so many different departments. We are proud to have a top-line panel shop over on Milton Circuit, our towing department has the two newest trucks in the area, and within the dealership there is obviously parts, vehicle detailing, admin, sales and the biggest one, service. At full capacity we can service over 50 vehicles in Port Macquarie every day! Over the past few years we have been expanding our workshop, making sure we have the tools on hand to be there when our customers need us. But again, it’s the team. I go to work with people I like and respect, and we give them an opportunity to do their best and feel valued doing it. I think that’s pretty good. You've recently acquired Taree Volkswagen. Do you have a vision of expanding Miedecke Motor Group along the East Coast? Yeah, that was a key moment for us. One of the things Dad did really well throughout
I go to work
the first 40 years was support. with people identifying key brands We love our town. I like and respect, that could help us Dad always had a and we give them grow our presence in really big focus on an opportunity to the market - Hyundai education and was one and Kia are great of the original board do their best and examples. Now with members of Newman feel valued doing VW, we are proud to College when it was it. I think that’s represent another of established. We support pretty good. the world’s top brands the Hastings Education - and to add it to our Fund, which does some already strong business amazing work with in Taree, Manning Valley Automotive. We getting kids into tertiary education who have owned the Mazda, Honda and Suzuki might not otherwise be able to. Otherwise, franchises in Taree for a few years now, and we love our sport and have just finished up a this Volkswagen news is a great opportunity great four-year partnership with Football Mid to bring the two businesses closer together. North Coast - and starting a new one with Back to your question about expansion Makos Touch Footy, focusing on the juniors. - definitely! Our brand is "Your Car, Our I’ve always been a swimmer, though. My Passion", and I think the sky is the limit for daughter, Eva is growing up fast, and I can’t us in the future. Plus, I’m just getting started wait for her to get started in Nippers! in my career! I’m 34 and have plenty of Now that Dad is retiring (as if) he really energy left yet. wants to spend some more time giving Tell us about your involvement in the back to the community that has given us so community and how Miedecke Motor much. Group plans to continue its community Thanks George. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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AL L- NEW FORD PUMA NO ADVERTISING TRICKERY REQUIRED
100 HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE 2444. (02) 6583 8855. MIEDECKE.COM.AU
Towing. Touring. Grand Cherokee. I’m in.
Grand Cherokee S-Limited 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel.
• 3.5 tonne towing with sway control~ • 5-star ANCAP safety • Reverse camera with trailer view • 5-year / 100,000km warranty^ • Capped price servicing at $599* • Lifetime roadside assist when you service through Jeep.#
5 100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 2444
Year factory warranty^
5
Year capped scheduled servicing*
Lifetime roadside assist with Jeep scheduled ser vicing #
miedecke.com.au
(02) 6583 8855
Whichever occurs first. *First 5 scheduled maintenance services capped at $399 per service for Petrol and $599 for Diesel on new and demonstrator Grand Cherokee models purchased after 1 January 2020 based on standard scheduled servicing from new and on normal operating conditions. Scheduled maintenance services required every twelve (12) months or 12,000km (whichever occurs first) for Petrol and twelve (12) months of 20,000km for Diesel. If vehicle is not presented within three (3) months or 3,000km of when the scheduled service is required, right to that capped-price service under the program is forfeited. #After your warranty period expires. Scheduled maintenance services must be conducted through a Jeep Authorised Dealership at manufactured specified intervals to maintain an additional 12 months roadside assistance program and can continue to do this for ~ the lifetime of your vehicle. 3,500kg towing capacity across 3.0L Diesel 4x4 models is achieved when properly equipped with Jeep accessories, which are not standard. Please visit www.jeep.com.au/grand-cherokee/accessories for further information. Jeep is a registered trademark FCA US LLC.
^
The Wait is Over
Miedecke Motor Group | 100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 2444 (02) 6583 8855 | miedecke.com.au
THE ALL NEW THERE’S A NEW MODEL IN TOWN
M i e d e c ke M o t o r G r o u p | 10 0 H a s t i ng s R i ve r D r i ve , Po r t M a c q u a r i e | Ph : (02) 65 8 3 8 8 55
mgmotor.com.au
*$29,490 is the driveaway price for the MG ZST Excite MY21 Model (excluding metallic paint). Vehicle shown is the MG ZST Essence MY21 Model with metallic paint with a driveaway price of $32,990 (which includes metallic paint RRP $500). Available at participating MG Dealers. Excludes fleet, gov’t and rental buyers. ^Warranty & roadside assistance. T&Cs at www.mgmotor.com.au/warranty
eat COVER DISH CRISPY PORK BELLY SERVED ON A BED OF HUMMUS, DRIZZLED WITH A SWEET STICKY SAUCE -PAIRED WITH A SPICY ASIAN NOODLE SALAD FROM VIBE
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Surf & Turf Fresh ingredients for a great taste!
1 Bay Street, Port Macquaire (02) 6580 2300 portmacquarie.panthers.com.au
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BREWED HERE IN PORT MACQUARIE.
CHICKENSALT ROTISSERIE Chickensalt is now proudly owned, operated and managed by Marten and Cassie Clark, with their daughters Ally and Bella. You may know this dynamic family from the multi-award winning business Seasalt CafÊ and Restaurant at the Port Macquarie Marina. You can find Chickensalt at the Kmart Complex, where they are serving up healthy and fresh lunch and dinner meals. Who doesn’t love a hot fresh rotisserie chicken! Chickensalt offers fresh seasonal
Shaker t
FRENCH MARTINI
INGREDIENTS
METHOD
30 ml Grey Goose Vodka 30 ml Chambord Liqueur 90 ml cold press pineapple juice (ripe) Fresh raspberries
Shake vodka, Chambord and pineapple juice vigorously on ice (to give the cocktail a nice foam). Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with fresh berries.
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salads, hot roasted vegetables, house made desserts, burgers, curries, seafood, gluten free options and daily specials - all using locally sourced quality fresh seasonal ingredients. They offer take away, sit down and home delivery, as well as catering for all your needs, whether it be for a picnic, party, function or a corporate event. Chickensalt have created their own "chickensalt", which they also sell. The healthy option of take away food. Find Chickensalt on Menulog for delivery!
CUE DELI BUTCHERY
KEN LITTLE'S FRUIT AND VEG Spring is in the air and is a lovely reminder that our favourite fruit is on the way in. One of our best sellers has arrived - Ken's famous mangoes, and it's going to be a great season. The quality is magnificent and quantity is no worry. And, don't forget we are still doing home delivery to Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.
You can choose from one of our pre-packed fruit and veg boxes, or phone/email us to give us your order. Check our website (www. kenlittlesfruitandveg.com.au) for details and delivery days, or give us a call. Remember to enjoy the good old fashioned things this spring - fresh air, sunshine, and good quality fresh fruit and veg!
With running the cafĂŠ side of Cue Deli off the cards until at least next year, the business has pivoted quickly to become a super-cool, little meat market and barbecue supplies store, which now sees hundreds of people per week choose Cue Deli for the low 'n' slow and grilling cuts of meat. Cue Deli now stocks some otherwise hard to find cuts, like tri tip steak, beef tomahawks, lamb shoulders, pork shoulders, bone-in rib eyes, pork ribs, beef short ribs and more. The solid range of barbecue seasoning rubs and top-shelf Blues Hog barbecue sauces will turn any backyard cook into a barbecue contest-ready pitmaster in no time.
The Pitmaster (Adam Roberts) and the Butcher (Garry Waddel) combine to recipe-up some super flavourful high-quality house made products, including kransky, chorizo, bacon, jalapeno and cheddar sausages, pastrami and the new jumbo cabanossi sticks in honey, jalapeno or chili flavours. Every other day there are meat pack specials on the Cue Deli Facebook page, where you can pre-order your favourite items for the week, before they sell out. BBQ classes are held every month and are a great gift idea for those in the family or friends circle - who may need a little help nailing them there briskets or cooking up the perfect rib eye steak.
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Kahlan
RUSSELL-DUNCAN VIBE COFFEE HOUSE
This month's In My Kitchen interview is with a brand new little café in Wauchope, that is quickly becoming the place to visit. Owner and chef Kahlan Russell-Duncan's creative mind is producing some really fabulous looking and tasting dishes. We catch up with Kahlan to learn a little bit more about Vibe Coffee House and his background in the industry.
V
ibe Coffee House is Wauchope's newest neighbourhood eatery. Tell us a little about the vision you had when opening Vibe Coffee House. We saw the potential the already established café had, and when we took over, we got stuck into the interior renovations before opening under the new name, Vibe Coffee House. We wanted to achieve a modern fitout with a relaxed, fun atmosphere and deliver our community a slightly different menu to what else is on offer. What is your background in hospitality, and what do you love most about the industry? I learnt and applied my trade while I served five years with the Royal Australian
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Navy. It taught me a lot, especially how to handle pressure. I love the creative side of it, and I like to bring enjoyment and happiness to people through food. Creativity certainly comes out through your food. What's currently on the menu and proving popular? We currently have a breakfast and lunch menu, with many popular choices. I’d have to say the most requested item on our menu is the breakfast tacos, and our weekly specials are also really well received. And for anyone hanging for their morning fix, the coffee dished up is pretty smooth too. Tell us about it. We sourced it on a trip to Newcastle, before we opened our doors. We wanted to find liquid gold! And, we found that at Darks Coffee Roasters, who happily teamed up with us and branched into Wauchope
via us at Vibe! The guys at Darks Coffee Roasters, Adam and Trent, roast their own beans in their warehouse. They have a really great setup, and we instantly knew it was the one we wanted for our café. What’s next for the café? We just had our outdoor area transformed, and we now offer outdoor timber bench seating, landscaped gardens, bean bags and outdoor music, which we think really creates the vibe we hoped for. Big thanks to HLW Projects, who worked all weekend to get the outdoor area done! How can our readers keep up to date with daily specials and what’s new at the café? You can find us on Facebook or Instagram by searching Vibe Coffee House; we update our socials regularly. Thanks Kahlan.
Nacho Cheese FRIED CHICKEN BURGER
INGREDIENTS
METHOD
1 chicken breast 300 ml buttermilk Oil for frying CRUMB 1 packet nacho cheese Doritos 1 cup plain flour ½ cup cornflour Pinch salt and pepper
Butterfly the chicken breast and transfer to an airtight container.
1 brioche bun 1 fancy lettuce 1 tomato 1 avocado American cheese slices Sriracha
Pour buttermilk over chicken and marinate for a couple of hours (overnight if possible). Heat oil. In a food processor, blitz up the Doritos to a fine crumb and transfer to a bowl. If a processor is not available, place it in a ziplock pack and crush with a rolling pin. In the same bowl, mix flour, cornflour and salt and pepper. Combine well and set aside.
While oil is heating, smash avocado and mix with some sriracha (to desired spiciness). Slice tomato, tear lettuce leaves, and toast brioche bun. Remove your chicken breast from the buttermilk and transfer directly to the crumb mixture. Coat well in mixture and transfer to oil. Fry 'tilcrispy. Remove from oil; drain. Then, assemble your burger however you desire - and enjoy!
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feeds Frothy
H
i Cody and Taranar. Please introduce yourselves and share your connection to Port Macquarie. Cody: I was born in Port Macquarie; I’ve only lived outside of it for roughly one year. Since a young child, I’ve been climbing the headlands, skating the streets and surfing the waves. I feel a deep connection to the natural world here and love the general culture of the place. It’ll always be home. Taranar: I am 20 years old, and I love surfing, nature, my health and my family. Growing up in the Port Macquarie district was awesome. I’ve always enjoyed an active lifestyle, spending every spare moment in the ocean or in the bush. There was also a time when the skate park’s bowl was my second home! I left the area for just a short time and since I’ve returned home, my connection with the area has grown even stronger. It’s pretty hard to beat! Frothy Feeds is your new foodie based business venture. Before we get into this, give us a run down on your backgrounds and why you started out in the food industry. Cody: I’ve had a passion for food since a young age. I started cooking around 14 years old and have always been infatuated with the culinary experience. I’ve worked at a few local restaurants and really enjoyed the culture and work associated with cooking. The camaraderie that comes with a solid team and the recognition that you receive for meals you’ve poured your heart into is pretty special. I’m excited to continue this journey with my own menu, through my own business.
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Port Macquarie local lads Taranar and Cody have just started their newest business venture together. Their passion for living a healthy, holistic lifestyle has grown over the years, and now they set their sights on sharing their knowledge and food with our community.
Taranar: At 16, when I first embraced a plantbased diet, I struggled with options - not so much at home, but when I was hanging out with my mates. My go to after a surf was a hot chip feed! It wasn’t too long after this that I became pretty serious about my health, training regularly and experimenting with lots of whole foods to create incredible meals. I have a reputation for eating lots of food - so while my meals had to be nutritious, they also had to be filling and support my training. A deeper dive into the health aspect of diet naturally led us to organic food. It soon became apparent that buying organic, plant-based meals from any food outlet was virtually a fantasy, with next to no options available. Our dream for Frothy Feeds is affordable, convenient health. We do not believe that this diet should be a struggle, and we want everyone to experience the amazing quality of life that we live. Tell us about the business and what’s on offer for your clients. Frothy Feeds provides fresh, organic, plantbased meals. Most people agree that eating more plants is a good thing, but struggle to take the first steps. Others struggle to source and prepare organic plant-based meals. Of course, there are lots of people out there who just want a quick, healthy plant-based option, and this is hard to find in most regional areas. We want to help all of these people. We are launching our online store, where customers can order and have their meals for the week delivered to their door. Customers will enjoy an ever-changing menu designed around available seasonal and organic produce.
Our team are passionate about making the Frothy Feeds experience exceptional. We make all our meals with love. We want to please the taste buds, while changing lives. The plant-based diet has really gained traction over the past few years. What are some positive effects it can have on us? A whole-food plant-based diet can have a major impact on so many of the Western world’s diseases. It reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. It also reduces inflammation and may significantly impact on one's mental health. The strongest feedback we hear from people who start eating more plantbased foods is an incredible increase in energy and an improvement in their general wellbeing and immunity. While the benefits of a plant-based diet on our own health are incredible, it also has the potential to improve the health of our planet. Each day, a person who eats a vegan diet saves 4,100 litres of water, 20 kilos of grain, three square metres of forested land, nine kilos of CO2 equivalent, and one animal’s life. So … eat more plants! How can people get in touch, make an order, or find out more? We can be contacted via our social media platforms and orders can be made through our website: www.frothyfeeds.com Instagram @frothyfeeds Facebook @FrothyFeeds Phone 0413 240 110 or 0478 071 609. Thanks guys.
T H E KOV E LO U N G E TA P P F R O M 4 P M
T DMELBOURNE RESSED TUE 3 NOV
cup
B R E A K FA S T AT KOV E
8. 30 A M – 10. 30 A M | $ 25 P E R P E R S O N
I N C LU D E S A G L A S S O F S PA R K L I N G , O J , T E A O R C O F F E E
F O O D S P EC I A L S
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I N T H E KOV E LO U N G E & TA P P F R O M 4 P M
PRIZES FOR BEST DRESSED 1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS
panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au PA N T H E R S P O R T M A C Q U A R I E PRACTICES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL
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With an expertise in the food industry and a strong passion for fish, Luke Tutt has combined the two and taken growing high quality produce to the next level. We visited Luke at his Aquaponics farm and found out just how amazing this method of farming really is.
Nambucca Valley
AQUA ponics
H
i Luke. You own and operate Nambucca Valley Aquaponics, but before we get into this, tell us a little bit about your background? I grew up in the Nambucca Valley, left school and took on a chef apprenticeship at 15. I worked in some great restaurants and learnt lots along the way. I finished my apprenticeship in Coffs Harbour and moved on to work in the Queensland islands. I decided after eight years I needed a break so I packed up the knives and returned home. A few years later I met my wife Tiarne and we started a family. I had been contract working away when I had an opportunity to volunteer at the Narrabri fish farm where I created a passion for fish and was introduced to the idea of aquaponics and had the idea of growing fish to grow chemical free produce for my family. What began as a backyard trial project, is now a fully fledged Aquaponics business. Why did you choose this method specifically? After working away I was offered a job back in the kitchen. Creating a new found passion for food I realised it was hard as a chef to source good quality locally grown produce in the Nambucca Valley. This
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prompted me to build a trial system in our backyard to not only be able to supply such foods but grow in an economical sustainable way. It took two and a half months of hard work before we got our first delivery of fish from Rick at the Narrabri fish farm followed by planting our first crop the same day. Fast forward four months and the little trial system soon started booming with way more produce than our family, neighbours and friends could eat. We started to sell our produce to some local restaurants and cafes. The little trial system was working well but our space wasn't big enough. Our family came to the rescue and gave us the opportunity to expand and take on a five acre paddock on Luke's grandparents property. What's on offer and how have you expanded over the past two years? After many trials we have over 40 strong lines of produce and three native varieties of fish - Murray cod, Silver perch, Tandanus catfish- which equate to approximately 10,000 fish altogether. We now supply over 35 cafes, pubs & wholesalers plus the general public & our events that we cater and are now teetering on the edge of the fence of our five acre patch. We offer fully chemical free produce including; lettuce, beetroot, bok choys,
radishes, potatoes, japanese turnips, broccoli, zucchini, button squash, chilli, carrots, cucumber, cabbages, cauliflower, rocket, mizuna, wasabi cress, rainbow chard, mint, dill, chives, shallots, coriander, corn, hairy gourd, loofahs, pumpkin and edible flowers. You’re a chef by trade, and also have a catering business, Paddock to Plate Catering. Tell us about this and how you combine your two passions together? We have combined our love of food, providing fresh, chemical free produce & turning it into the best quality food and experience we can provide. With our fully mobile commercial kitchen caravan/ refrigerated truck, we cater to all types of events with all types of menus, and we cook with everything we grow. Currently most of our catering is done at River view island function centre catering for weddings in Tewinga, just across the river from the farm. What's next for Nambucca Valley Aquaponics? We have numerous ideas on the horizon; Farm tours, cafe, long table dining experiences, cooking classes, harvesting your own produce and educational children's programs. Keep your eyes peeled for any upcomings. Thanks Luke.
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Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI
FROM THE STUNNED MULLET
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
U
nlike the vast majority of those born on these shores, sun and sand filled holidays were sadly never a feature of the vacations of my Canadian childhood. In fact, holidays themselves were not so ingrained into the general psyche - in contrast, many Australians I meet seem to paint a vivid picture of fond nostalgia for the holidays of their youth. Back in the days before affordable and accessible air travel, passports were thin on the ground, and a family vacay almost always involved a roadtrip - often to the same place, year after year ... off to see the "relos" in another state, heading to the same campsite or holiday "resort" ('80s style). Bags were packed, and kids were squished in the car. Seatbelts were optional, as was air-conditioning (a luxury). Itineraries generally lacked complexity. Days were a blur of salt water, sunburn (sunscreen barely invented, it seems). Kids would disappear until food was on the table. Beers and 5 litre wine casks were flowing (the horror!) … Repeat until the drive back home. There was no such thing as kids' "activities". Sightseeing was a trip to the local pub at best. And from what I’ve heard, you couldn’t want for anything better … Fortunately, for those reminiscing about these times, it just happens to be some sort of bizarre, lucky side effect of the whole COVID crazies that we all now
have no other option but to once again to be jam packed in August - that our shops, experience this kind of holiday, if indeed we attractions, restaurants and cafés would be do want to travel. pumping in the slowest part of the year? Lucky, in that for the first time in many It’s well and truly time to coin that wellyears, we’ve been given a poignant and worn phrase - "make hay while the sun powerful reminder of how absolutely shines"… amazing what we possess in our own If there was any time to give our energy backyard is. as a community to making the most of this Certainly, a place like new momentum, it is Port Macquarie has now. We’ve learned with become a focal point certainty that we have We have the of this phenomenon. absolutely no idea what amazing For many, this will be could be lurking around opportunity to finally the first time they’ve the corner. reveal the full turned off the highway We have the amazing splendour of this on to Hastings River opportunity to finally place to those now Drive since they were reveal the full splendour keen to explore it. For nine years old. of this place to those sure, it will surprise Indeed, the usual now keen to explore it. and delight those with turn off would have For sure, it will surprise the faded childhood been Byron, or in and delight those with memories of a sleepy most cases many city the faded childhood slickers would be memories of a sleepy little coastal town. heading to a multitude little coastal town. of international Perhaps this is the destinations. beginning of a revival of the retro style But with international travel indefinitely of holiday, allowing for the possibility of on hold, topped off with the closed state considering the exploration of our own borders, even Noosa is currently out for the regional treasures for our holidays, as well jetset. as eventually regaining our freedom to So, via the long, dramatic and chaotic enjoy international travel? It would be a journey that has been 2020, it seems that wonderful "side effect" of COVID-19 if this somehow Port Mac is where it’s at right were to happen … now … Now, to experience the retro Aussie Talk about a silver lining. Who could have holiday for myself ... Minus the cask wine, possibly envisaged that the hotels would of course!
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in the F RO N T
BAR
with ALISTAIR F L O W E R
DALE R A NDA L L
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS
Lifting the lid on exceptional community minded local legends of our region.
D
ale gives up his Fridays to prepare it changes your whole perspective on life. I the slow cooked meats for the believe I got myself better through a change catering at Hastings Vikings in my mental behaviour - I now meditate Rugby Clubs home games. every day, and I work at my pace. I enjoy Dale, how did you end up in Port some of the simple things, like a beer at Macquarie? Settlers Inn with my mates. I'm now a My family and I came to Port Macquarie in handyman, as I enjoy working with my hands 2001 and have never looked back! My twin and helping people. brother and I owned a real estate agency How did you get involved with the in Avalon; it was an extremely fast paced Vikings Rugby Union Club, and why do lifestyle. My wife and I longed for a country you turn up week after week? upbringing for our kids, so we took the leap I've always enjoyed my rugby, and I would and made the sea pop down to watch change to Port - still them play on weekends. I staying in the real started making friends, as Initially I was estate game, working I was always there. doing a lot of at Richardson & The committee needed slow cooked meats Wrench, but I had a some help, and I had for special occasions, serious health scare time, so I put my hand but everyone kept that changed my up - and before long I asking for it for whole perspective on was overseeing the BBQ game days, so now I life and what I did operations at every home with it. game. I love cooking (we do a spicy pulled pork Tell us what used to run restaurants and Cajun chicken for happened with before real estate). I love the game days. your health scare seeing the satisfaction on ... and how did it people's faces as they bite change you? into one of my creations. About 12 years ago, I was feeling run Now, you don’t just do a simple snag down, always tired, so I went and got sanga at the footy; what are you checked out - and the doctor rushed me to creating? hospital, as I was dying. I was sick for 18 Initially I was doing a lot of slow cooked months, I lost 30 kg, and to this day, the meats for special occasions, but everyone doctors don’t actually know what was wrong kept asking for it for game days - so now I do with me. a spicy pulled pork and Cajun chicken for the When doctors say you should be dead, game days.
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I would take the Friday off work and start smoking the meats. It’s a process, but I love it. People drop in from all over town, just for my pulled pork. Travelling teams wait until they are at Oxley Oval before they eat ha ha! The process starts on a Tuesday; on big games I can smoke up to 90 kg of meat! Everyone also loves my spicy BBQ sauce. You now sell your Dirty Digger spicy BBQ sauce; how is this going? Everyone kept trying to steal it, so I thought I would sell it! Bels Bakery is a sponsor of the Vikings, and they offered me the use of their commercial kitchen. I started selling it in local butcheries, and now the Flower Hotels are selling it through the bottleshops also. It's going really well. My Dirty Digger range now includes Red Back Tomato Sauce, Dirty Digger BBQ Sauce, Cajun Seasoning and coming soon, I have a Sweet Asian Sauce. Bels Bakery have used my Cajun seasoning in their chicken pie and have recently won Australia’s best Cajun chicken pie! That was a huge honour, to be recognised nationally! Lastly, as I always ask, what are your favourite things about Port Macquarie and what’s next for Dirty Digger? It has got to be the people. The people in Port Macquarie are the best in the world! And as for Dirty Digger, I am happy with where we are at. I’d like to keep it as an artisan, handmade, hand bottled product. We have great stockists who support me and of course, Bels Bakery - I’d be lost without their support! Thanks Dale.
GET FOOD SMART TODAY! Did you know the average family wastes almost $4,000 every year throwing food away? This wastes not only the food itself, but also the energy, water and natural resources used to grow, package, transport and sell it. By joining the free Food Smart program, your family can make small changes that add up to big savings: • Know your waste - most people underestimate how much food waste they generate • Plan your meals - save money when shopping and avoid mealtime stress • Shop with a list - it’s not a bargain if it ends up in your bin
• Perfect portion sizes - cooking the right amount can help you eat well, reduce leftovers and maintain a healthy weight • Keep it fresh - smart storage solutions keep food fresher for longer, reduce your grocery bill and preserve nutrients • Love your leftovers - make the most of your efforts in the kitchen, and give your excess food a new lease on life with creative recipes. Get your free downloadable action cards, menu planner, recipe ideas and storage tips to make the most of the food you buy. Sign up at midwaste.org.au/food-smart
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AT HOME Holiday plans cancelled? Then pick up the phone, jump in the car and enjoy a short drive to Coffs Harbour.
T
he drive is so short, even the most time poor person can finish work in Port on Friday afternoon, drive to The Observatory Apartments, check in, and still have time to walk to one of the Jetty Strip restaurants and enjoy dinner for the perfect start to your weekend.
The Observatory Apartments offer many accommodation options, to ensure the right room to suit the needs of individuals, couples, families and groups and a fantastic location at Coffs Harbour Jetty. From there, everything you need is only a short walk away. You won’t have to use your car again, until it's time for the short drive home. The Observatory were gold medal
winners in last year's Regional Tourism Awards. Manager Julia and staff strive to provide the highest levels of service, to make your visit enjoyable. By booking direct, you are guaranteed the lowest price and there are several specials, including $50 off two night weekends and $60 off three night stays that are only available to direct bookers.
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TWO TAILS
MADONNA BANNERMAN
Two Tails Wines is an award-winning, family owned boutique vineyard located in the village of Nana Glen within the beautiful Orara Valley, 20 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.
H
ey Maddy! So, what drew you to Nana Glen? Why did you decide to purchase a winery? We had been looking to return to the Coffs Coast for about two years after our time up north and wanted a decent size block. We looked at a number of locations in and around Coffs Harbour, and then this came on the market. We discussed it for over a year and fell in love with the property from the day we saw it. We love our food and wine and with all the potential that was on offer, thought, "We can do this". We just wanted a business that was a bit different. What do you think makes Two Tails Wines so special? We have a unique venue for this area. The Coffs Coast region is not known for its vineyards, due to the humid climate. Barry and I wanted to offer something unique to the area, and a restaurant was the obvious natural progression from the cellar door. The success of Velvets has undoubtedly been our greatest achievement since we came to
the business. I couldn’t have dreamed that it would be so warmly embraced by the local community. We have just celebrated our third birthday, and I’m amazed we’re still booked out almost every weekend. Award-winning, Velvets Restaurant has a reputation for quality food and service. Tell us more … Here at Velvets Restaurant we are big on providing fresh local produce in our dishes. We source as much local produce as we can and limit the miles our products come from. We also grow our own herbs, vegetables and flowers on site, which we use in our dishes. We have an amazing team of professionals working for us, who bring experience from all over Australia and around the world. Both our front of house and back of house staff have gained top level experience in some well known and popular restaurants internationally. Thanks Maddy.
IS THE ANSWER, NEVERMIND THE QUESTION. C H O C O L AT E & W I N E PA I R I N G
CHEESE & W I N E PA I R I N G
We have worked with our friends at Baba Lila Chocolates at Bago Maze & Winery to create the only experience of its kind on the Coffs Coast.
Book your Cheese & Wine pairing with us at Two Tails Wines. We have created a total of 8 different cheeses and wines to match.
$ 2 5 P E R PA D D L E
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
N O W AVA I L A B L E
N O W AVA I L A B L E
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
AWA R D W I N N I N G
PHONE 6654 3633
V I S I T U S AT 9 6 3 O R A R A WAY, N A N A G L E N
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Experience the magic of
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TOURIST
DRIVE
THROUGHOUT THE MACLEAY VALLEY COAST
BEGINNING AT CRESCENT HEAD, TOURIST DRIVE 12 FOLLOWS THE MEANDERING BELMORE RIVER THROUGH LUSH FARMLAND TO SOUTH WEST ROCKS, HIGHLIGHTING SOME OF THE MACLEAY VALLEY COAST’S BEST COASTAL ATTRACTIONS AND SCENERY ALONG THE WAY. 1
SOAK UP THE ‘70S VIBE AT CRESCENT HEAD
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STOP FOR FARM-FRESH VEGGIES ALONG THE BELMORE RIVER
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DISCOVER THE CAFES AND GALLERIES OF GLADSTONE
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DRIVE BY THE ORIGINAL MILO FACTORY
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WALK THE SHORT KOROGORO TRACK AT HAT HEAD
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PICK UP SOME FRESH SEAFOOD
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SPOT RARE BIRDS AT THE BOYTERS LANE BIRD HIDE
8 DIVE, SUP OR SWIM AT SOUTH WEST ROCKS’ BEAUTIFUL BEACHES 9 EXPERIENCE TRIAL BAY GAOL 10 TAKE IN THE VIEWS FROM SMOKY CAPE LIGHTHOUSE
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For further information on all things to see and do in the Macleay Valley visit www.macleayvalleycoast.com.au
Explore
Macleay VALLEY COAST
12 ways to experience Tourist Drive 12 through the Macleay Valley Coast
F
ollow the brown Tourist Drive 12 signs to enjoy a scenic adventure. 1. Every road trip begins with great coffee start your journey, stop off at South Kempsey Corner Store for your caffeine hit. 2. Then drive into Crescent Head and make haste to the Crescent Head Point Surfing Reserve to check the waves or just grab a bite to eat and watch the waves peel off the point. 3. Follow the beautiful Belmore River Road towards Gladstone and be sure to grab some change to take advantage of the little farm gate stalls selling eggs, condiments and seasonal produce. 4. Make sure you stop in Gladstone, a little village that punches above its weight when it comes to cafes, galleries and boutiques. 5. Take a quick detour and cross the river from Gladstone to Smithtown to find the Nestle Milo factory and savour lunch overlooking the Macleay River at the Garden Bar & Kitchen in Frederickton. 6. At Kinchela, take the turn off to Hat Head, where you can walk the stunning Korogoro Track
followed by a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Korogoro Creek. 7. Pick up some fresh seafood along the Macleay River towards South West Rocks at the Macleay River District Fishermen’s Cooperative. 8. Spot rare birds at the Boyters Lane Bird Hide on the way into South West Rocks. 9. SUP, dive, fish and swim at one of the many South West Rocks’spectacular beaches 10. Visit South West Rocks Pilot Station and then amble down the hill to Horseshoe Bay for a picnic or a swim. 11. Experience Trial Bay Gaol by rambling around the ruins and be sure to say hello to the site’s ubiquitous kangaroos within Arakoon National Park. 12. Take in the views from Smoky Cape Lighthouse, ascend the steep staircase the lighthouse in Hat Head National Park to be treated with magnificent 360 degree views of the surrounding coastline. Want to keep exploring? Discover the Macleay Valley Hinterland road trip west of Kempsey and finish at the Bellbrook Historic Pub! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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DOLPHIN SUNSET CRUISE
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PAT A KOALA BILLABONG ZOO
Get up-close and personal to Australian and exotic animals. You can pat, stroke, feed, hold, hear and see over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Book one-on-one up-close personal encounters with some very special animals at the friendly 10 acre Koala and Wildlife Park. Enjoy our much loved Zoo Talks throughout the day, enjoy the playground, delicious hot food, snacks, ice cream, coffee and drinks at the great Zoo CafĂŠ. Open every day, 9am - 5pm.
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PORT ADVENTURE CRUISES
Relax and unwind as you explore the tranquil waters of Port Macquarie. Enjoy the stunning scenery aboard the Port AdVenture, as the sun sets over Port Macquarie. Nature will play a part in the entertainment, as we often see dolphins, turtles, ospreys and sea eagles. There is something about dolphins that makes us smile every time we see them. Includes coffee, tea and biscuits. Licensed bar on board.
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PINOT & PICASSO PORT MACQUARIE
Enjoy a fun night out and a laugh at Pinot & Picasso with friends, family and strangers. Offering you the space and the means to let your inner Picasso shine. BYO booze, with grazing platters available to suit any group. We always start with the same blank canvas, but the end result will always surprise you.
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COASTAL WALK PORT MACQUARIE
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Port Macquarie coastal walk is one of the few places on the NSW coast where the forest meets the foam. Spot historical sites along the way, while enjoying stunning seaside scenery. You might spot a whale or two on their annual migration between May and November. Starting the walk at Town Beach, you'll wind around the coastline via Flagstaff, Rocky Beach lookout, and Nobbys Beach, ending your walk at Tacking Point Lighthouse. Cool off with a swim along the way, or stop to use one of the many public barbecues.
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MOUNTAIN BIKING JOLLY NOSE MTB PARK
Get out amongst the region's best tracks. Jolly Nose Park is just off Houston Mitchell Drive in Lake Cathie, offering 60 km of bike trails for all abilities to have a go. With school holidays upon us, it's time to dust off the bike and get the family together for a group ride.
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SHOPPING AT ELEMENTS WAUCHOPE
A trip to Wauchope and its surrounds is not complete without a stop off at Elements of Design - a lifestyle emporium of eclectic bohemian coastal inspired fashion, homewares and furniture, with a unique, relaxed, friendly vibe. The store is always stocked full of beautiful goodies for you to get lost in. A must see in the Hastings region.
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ELLENBOROUGH FALLS
A beautiful 1.5 hour scenic drive from Port Macquarie, Ellenborough Falls is definitely a day trip to include on your holiday list. The walk to the bottom, or should I say the 641 steps, is well worth it and after hiking back to the top, there's a great kiosk for you to sit and enjoy a coffee. On the way back to Port, stop into Deb and Dave's new café - The Coffee Hangar - and fill up on a late breakfast and great coffee, while enjoying the relaxed vibe.
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TOURIST DRIVE KEMPSEY
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Tourist Drive 12 highlights some of the Macleay Valley Coast’s best coastal attractions. Crescent Head is known for its surfing and is home to some of Australia’s best beaches. Follow the river to Gladstone for interesting art galleries and gift shops. Visit South West Rocks and spend time at Horseshoe Bay Reserve with a swim, picnic, or take in the views of Horseshoe Bay and Trial Bay. Historic Trial Bay Gaol is located at Laggers Point and is one of only a few places on the east coast of Australia to see the sunset over the water. Learn of the gaol’s past, dating from the 1880s to World War I. Arakoon National Park offers many leisure activities, from swimming, fishing, whale watching, bushwalking and picnicking. Take a drive out to the most picturesque place - Hat Head somewhere you have to see to believe.
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SEAFOOD LAURIETON FRESH SEAFOODS
Go bike riding from North Haven to Dunbogan, burn a few calories, and then sit by the river whilst eating the best fish and chips in Camden Haven. Local school prawns are always present, and the staff always go the extra mile to give the best service.
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4WD TO PLOMER PORT MACQUARIE
Get out and explore our region's best beaches. After catching the Settlement Point ferry over to the North Shore, jump on to the beach or take the 4WD track and drive up to Queens, Big Hill and Point Plomer. Pack the boards and a picnic, and let the day slip away by the crystal clear ocean. For beach permits, visit the Glasshouse. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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TO WATER PARK, 4D RIDE SIMULATOR, LASER TAG, MINI GOLF, GIANT SLIDE, WORLD OF BANANAS THEATRE & TOUR, ICE SKATING & TOBOGGAN RIDE FOR 1 FULL DAY! (FROM 9AM TO 5PM)*
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W A S $6 9
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W A S $7 9
*SESSION TIMES, RIDE RESTRICTIONS AND CONDITIONS OF ENTRY APPLY, VISIT WWW.BIGBANANA.COM. SOME ATTRACTIONS MAY NOT BE OPERATING AT CERTAIN TIMES. PASS INCLUDES ONLY ATTRACTIONS LISTED, ALL OTHER OUTLETS ARE NOT INCLUDED. ONLY AVAILABLE FOR CERTAIN DAYS AND CAPACITY IS LIMITED.
WWW.BIGBANANA.COM | PH: 02 6652 4355 351 PACIFIC HWY, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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THREE BLUE DUCKS
NORTH COAST
CHOW HAUS
KARRIKIN
VELVETS
Chow Haus - Port Macquarie Chow Haus originated in Port Macquarie, Australia. Our head chef, Matt is a flavour boss. Out of the way, down the road, we’re a destination location. But once you find us, you won’t forget us in a hurry. Our philosophy is simple: create epic flavours using traditions and cuisines from around the world. Burgers inspired by the USA, tacos from Mexico and fried chicken thanks to Korea. If it tastes good, then we’re bound to have it on the menu at some point.
Velvets Restaurant - Two Tails Wines Located in the heart of the Orara Valley, Nana Glen. Velvets Restaurant has something for everyone. Enjoy your meals, with sweeping views over the vineyard in a quiet and peaceful setting - both indoor and outdoor dining options available. Velvets Restaurant provides a unique Coffs Harbour dining experience that encapsulates the
essence of the Orara Valley lifestyle. The modern Spanish tapas style menu showcases the best local produce and ensures your time with us at Velvets Restaurant is one to remember.
QUODO
Three Blue Ducks - Byron Bay Bring your own picnic rug, wander along the farm trail past the pigs in their mud bath, the 700 bond brown chickens that lay our eggs, past the macadamia orchard and the fields planted with produce that we serve in the restaurant. Find a spot you like, spread out your rug, and feast at your own leisure. We’ll send you off into the fields with a Three Blue Ducks bag filled with house made goods, locally sourced cheeses, charcuterie, parfait, dips, fruit, sweets, dried fruits, nuts, berries, and bread from our friends and next door neighbours, The Bread Social.
Karrikin - Yamba Karrikin is the compound that brings the best of the region’s local catch, seasonal produce, and foraged delicacies together with a truly artistic and courageous
interweaving of style and substance, resulting in a native cuisine experience unlike any other. Seeking a deeper connection to our ancient land and to one another through the culinary journey, KARRIKIN is who we are - an ethos born in the beauty and fire of new beginnings.
Qudo, Café & Sake - Bellingen Authentic Japanese and modern Australian fusion. Lunch is a little more casual at Qudo. Choose from the range of Temaki style sushi, or mix and match our handmade sushi and nigiri. Careful - our signature dishes and specials will also tempt you. Dinner at Qudo means that whatever you choose, you will still have menu envy. So, we make most of our food ready to share. You choose - share, or keep it all to yourself. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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VISIT Step out of your imagination and into the unspoilt beauty of Tenterfield.
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t’s humble. It’s authentic. It’s true. Sitting high in the Northern Tablelands, just below the Queensland border, the Tenterfield region offers the perfect trifecta of countryside, national parks and history, enticing travellers with its genuine stories, people and adventures. Enjoy a scenic journey inland via either Waterfall Way or the Gwydir or Bruxner Highways. Each of these routes connect to the New England Highway, that traverses through the picturesque New England High Country. Adventure seekers, history buffs and boutique lovers alike are bound to find something that speaks to their true soul in this region distinguished by warm hospitality and earthly delights, full of simple, honest treasures waiting
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to be found. Here, you’re on Tenterfield time - time to reconnect, time to explore and time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures Tenterfield’s streets are lined with heritagelisted buildings from bygone years, which match the inspiring homewares and antiques you’ll find within them. Year round, visitors can discover historical sites, museums, art galleries, boutique stores, cafés, restaurants, wineries and more. Cocooned by national parks, the quaint villages of Urbenville, Drake, Jennings, Legume, Liston, Torrington and Mingoola invite visitors to
experience a true taste of country lifestyle. Areas of rugged mountainous terrain present spectacular scenic views, inviting you to marvel at curious granite outcrops and rock formations, including the largest granite monolith in the southern hemisphere, Bald Rock. A place of true seasons, the region’s mild alpine summers, vibrant autumn reds, whitefrosted winters and floral springs appeal to many, year in, year out. And that’s just the beginning of what you’ll find. It’s time you discovered Tenterfield. True. Plan your trip now at visittenterfield.com.au
KIDS PARTIES @ THE SEED!
Choose your creative project
All supplies & instruction included
We set up and clean up!
pARTy packages available
KIDS PARTIES @ THE SEED!
2 2/44 Gordon don Street Port Macquarie www.theseedcreativeworkshops.com w @theseedcw Ph: 0447 114 796 P
Choose your creative project
All supplies & instruction included
We set up and clean up!
pARTy packages available
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J OIN T H E
FAM ILY F UN
Wave
Bowl
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AVE BOWL HAS IT ALL BOWLING, BAR, EATS AND KARAOKE! Bring the family, bring your friends or colleagues and have a rolling good time at Wave Bowl. Whether it's a quick game, or a whole day or night out, we have options to suit you. Come for a cocktail or beer at the bar before your game, and ensure the little ones are fed! We’ve got a great selection of food on our menu, including brisket nachos, fried chicken wings, arancini balls, cauliflower poppers, toasties, and hot dogs, to name a few of our wonderful share plates. Or, hot from the oven, we have eight different kinds of pizza!
Our Karaoke room is limited to four patrons, where you can safely sing along to your favourite tunes. We’re open seven days, and do recommend you book in advance, so that your place is secured. We have a COVID Safe Plan in place and ask that all patrons comply, so that we can all continue to be safe and operational. Call us to book on 6583 2238.
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After spending time with a local shaper learning about boards and surfing's history, Beth Cook was inspired to share her newfound appreciation and her love of surfing with the local community.
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i Beth. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your connection to the Coffs Coast. Hey Claire, thanks for having me! I was born in Manly and moved around quite a bit as a kid. I moved to Coffs 16 years ago, when my parents bought an old banana farm and went off-grid. Bit of a lifestyle change! When I finished school, I spent my summers in Sawtell and Bellingen working hospitality, and winters in Perisher chasing the snow for a few years. No matter where I travelled, I was always happy to come back to Coffs. We are very lucky to live in such a beautiful place! You opened The Water Closet surf shop back in 2016. What was your vision behind opening, and what makes the shop unique? It’s a bit of a funny story. When I finished school, I started studying business at uni, but only got three weeks in before quitting, as I 64 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Beth CO O K
T H E W AT E R C L O S E T
never saw myself as a business person - or saw running a business as a reality for me. I really love surfing and snowboarding, so I alternated between the two for five years. I finally decided to stick around Coffs one winter for a change, and that’s when I broke my only longboard. It seemed a waste to chuck it out, so I brought the pieces in to Dennis Anderson, and he helped me put it back together. It actually surfed better after I’d snapped it. As a result, I spent quite a lot of time in Dennis’ shed learning about boards and surfing history. Dennis is an absolute legend and helped me so much - letting me sit in while he was shaping and repairing boards, allowing me to have a hand in glassing my own (something I’d always wanted to do!) and helping me believe it’s not that big of a job to open a shop myself
and that it can be done. (It is a big job - not gonna lie). But without him, it really would never have happened. He has so much patience, knowledge and is a true master craftsman. I’ve always bought second-hand first, before considering anything new. Old things have much more character. One person can give something old a new life and save it from landfill. As a society we expect convenience, and our planet is paying the price, it can’t keep up with our trends and desire for new things. Just over four years ago I got the keys to an empty shed, and it’s evolved into what it is today! There's a certain charm when you walk into the shop. The Water Closet is unique, because it’s made up of a variety of things, from local people, each with their own story - from those who bring
their boards in to be sold, photographers who capture the stunning Coffs Coast and surrounds, designers who print on furniture, artists and shapers. The local community has helped make The Water Closet what it is. It’s also unique because we don’t really stock any big brands or labels. I’d much rather support smaller-scale shapers and people who love what they do, not just for the money. How has the business grown, and what's the reception been like from the local community? When I opened The Water Closet, I honestly had no idea what to expect! I guess the shop grew "organically". Looking back to when I first opened, I didn’t have that many boards, so I borrowed friends' boards to make the shop look full (and convinced a few to let me sell them!) The business has grown through word of mouth and social media. It’s been lovely getting to know the wider surf community. Everyone has their reasons for wanting to get in the water, especially since COVID. Surfing is such a simple and healthy escape from the world and all its heaviness. I have met so many people since opening whom I never would have thought - surf legends who had a hand in shaping the early surfboards, filmmakers who documented the surf culture, people from the other side of the Australia - and even other countries (pre-COVID, of course) who’ve found The Water Closet
I love that no two boards are the same at The Water Closet. Each one came from somewhere different and if one person didn’t really enjoy it, it might become somebody’s new favourite.
through Instagram and have made a point to stop and visit on their journey. It’s been a pretty special time, and I’ve met some really beautiful people. It is truly only with the support of the locals that I am still here four years later. How do these retro and vintage boards make their way to you, and what can people expect to find when they visit? It’s a bit of a mixed bag! I always keep my eye out for beautiful old boards, but it’s pretty rare to find them. Some people bring their old boards in to sell. Surfboards have a lot of sentimental value, especially the old ones, so sometimes it’s really hard to put a price on something with so much history and so many good memories. Many people are just happy that their board, which has been sitting unused in the garage, is going to a new home where someone else can enjoy it. I also trade boards, so that keeps the collection interesting! You never know what might walk through the door, which is fun. I love that no two boards are the same at The Water Closet. Each one came from somewhere different and if one person didn’t really enjoy it, it might become somebody’s new favourite. One of the things I most enjoy is the reaction of people when they walk into the shop. From
the outside you don’t really know what to expect, and I love when customers walk in and say it takes them back to when they were growing up, leaving them with a sense of nostalgia. I love that you're passionate about keeping these golden oldies circulating. Why is there so much love for the vintage and retro boards? These old boards are a part of surfing history, and to me they are works of art! A surfboard can bring back so many memories for one person and take them back to a specific time and place - where they bought the board, where they surfed the board, who shaped the board. They all have a unique story. Old boards make their way through generations and are handed down. Sometimes children want to collect the boards shaped by their relatives back in the '60s. There are so many stories behind old boards, which is why I love it. What is it you love most about life on the Coffs Coast? I love that everyone is here because they want to be here. The mountains and the coast are so close, there is always somewhere new and beautiful to explore and plenty of things to do! We really are so lucky. Thanks Beth. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Jolly Nose
M O UN TA I N
Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park President - Mick Fullbrook
Bike PA R K
MICK FULLBROOK P R E S I D E N T
If you love getting amongst nature, meeting new people and are up If you love getting amongst for a quick dopamine hit, Mountain Bikings for you.
nature, meeting new people and are up for a quick dopamine hit, mountain biking is for you.
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ut be warned, pretty quickly this addictive sport will have you justifying your need for more “stuff” to your significant other. We caught up with President Mick Fullbrook, to get the low down on hittin' the tracks. Hey Mick. Jolly Nose Mountain Bike Park is our region’s outdoor playground. Tell us about the club and your role. Hasting Valley Mountain Bike Riders secured an operation permit for the purpose of mountain biking in the Queens Lake State Forest in June 2017, which then became the Jolly Nose MTB park. It has over 60 km of single trail, set in a beautiful coastal forest area. We are a non-profit organisation, who rely on all our great volunteers and sponsors to maintain the area and trails. Our membership has grown significantly over the years, and we aim to provide a great, family friendly atmosphere to all members and their guests. I’ve been part of Jolly Nose MTB trails for over 10 years, been on the HVMBR club committee for the last six years, and then became the president two years ago. My main role is to guide all the fantastic volunteers and work with the State Forest. We have a great
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amount of people who help make Jolly Nose MTB park what it is today. The sport’s gone gangbusters over the past decade. What is it about mountain biking that's so addictive? MTB has grown in strength over the last 10 years, due to the new bike technology and the idea of being part of nature. You get to ride through beautiful natural forests and breathe in the nature filled air. Every MTB area is different and varies from coastal, inland, high mountains and rainforest to dry rocky trails. The councils, State Forest and National Parks have all got on board and are providing new trails all over Australia. It’s just like being a kid again, remembering how much fun you had just riding a bike and feeling free. Then, add your family into it - and it’s just amazing. It’s a sport for all levels, from beginners through to advanced. Jolly Nose has a fair few trails for people to get out and explore. What's on offer, and what experience is needed? You can get it all at Jolly Nose, with 60 km of single trail, five enduro trails and kids' loops. Enduro has rough, rocky, technical terrain mixed in with jump lines, berms and fast flowing sections. All five trails are marked to suit all levels, from green (easier), blue
(intermediate) through to black for the more advanced. The XC [cross country] trails are usually on flatter ground at the lower level of Jolly Nose and again have different levels. All of these trails can be ridden by everyone, but it’s the speed and the amount of kilometres you want to do that makes all the difference. We also have a kids' loop for new kids to get a hint of what MTB is all about. Give us a few mountain biking tips that all beginners should know. MTB is for all levels, but the main tip is to always ride to your own ability. No one gets a trophy at the end of the day; it’s all about fun and being with friends and nature. If you are new to the sport, then it’s always better to get a low-end bike to start and always make sure you wear your helmet. Other protective gear which is a must is eye protection, sunscreen, and carry plenty of water. There are different types of apps for your phone to find trails, but the easiest way is to take a photo of the trail head map located in the car park of all trails. Always ride in pairs or more, as sometimes you might get lost, hurt yourself, or have a bike malfunction. Make sure your bike is well maintained and tyres are in good order.
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It's just like being a kid again, remembering how much fun you had just riding a bike and feeling free! Then, add your family into it - and it's just amazing.
For those who love to compete and take their sport to the next level, what competitions are run throughout the year? The club has all levels of competitions. We currently have two promoters who come in and hire our trails to run more serious races. Rockytrail and White Lightning both do Gravity Enduro and XC races. These can be highly competitive, or as fun as you’d like it to be. We tend to make all our club rides more social. During Daylight Saving, there’s the Thursday afternoon social ride, which caters for all levels of riders. No one is ever left behind, and our aim is to get people to meet other riders and form new friendships - people whom they might be able to catch up with later for their own rides. The ride is usually 1.5 hours long, followed by a social refreshment and chat at the end. The club's had a pretty tough year in the way of bushfires, followed by restrictions. If any, what were the benefits of the time away? It’s been a very different year for the club, with fires, floods and then COVID. But through
it all, we’ve had great support from the State Forest, with updates of closures and different levels of restrictions. There’s always a positive to every negative, and we’ve made a lot of upgrades to trails and also incorporated a new trail. We've named it COVID, and it’s our most advanced trail yet, rated as a black run. This alone has brought a lot of new riders to the area, searching for that next level of riding. You’ve partnered with TRS Cycles and Merida Bikes to bring an amazing raffle to the MTB community, which ultimately helps out with maintenance and development of trails. Tell us about this. We would like to thank our major sponsor, TRS for supplying the Merida MTB to the value of $6,999. All funds raised will be going to the maintenance of the MTB park. To purchase tickets, you can go to our Facebook, Instagram or website and look for www.rafflelink.com.au/jolly-nose-2020 and there are also some posters located at the MTB park and local shops, which have the scanning
code to take you straight to the site. Up for grabs is an Ebike valued at $6,999, or you could choose a maximum of three bikes to the same value. Tickets start at $11 each, six for $50 or 12 for $100, and the raffle will be drawn on 1st December, just in time for that Christmas cheer. For anyone who would like to come and try out the sport, how can they get in touch? For anyone thinking of trying out MTB, Jolly Nose MTB park is located off Houston Mitchell Drive; turn on to Spring Creek Road, and follow for 2.1 km 'til you reach the carpark and club pavilion. There is a trail head map located next to the Jockey Pavilion, which has plenty of shade and chairs. HVMBR has a web page, Facebook and Instagram page. These pages always have upcoming events and social rides. We are a fun, family friendly club, and we always love to see new riders. To become a member of the club, you will have to join Mountain Bike Australia and select Hastings Valley Mountain Bike Club. There are various levels of membership, with $20 going towards the club - and the bonus is that you are fully insured to ride any trails in Australia. Thanks Mick. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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A MOMENT
Mayor WITH THE
with PETA PINSON
M AYO R O F P O R T M A C Q U A R I E HASTINGS COUNCIL
Our New World. Twelve months ago, who would have ever imagined the changes that are going on around the globe and the impact that these have had in Australia and our local community. Many of us are now working from home, the health and safety of our community is our main priority through hygiene and social distancing, and the way we go about our everyday lives has been flipped on its head. We will look back at 2020 as one of the most impactful years on record, as we have all had to go into survival mode, for our health, our families, our lifestyles, and our livelihoods. I continue to be amazed at the way our community has adapted to this new world, and it makes me extremely proud to lead our community through such a worrying time. We are a strong and resilient community. When times are tough, we support each other, and we
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journey into the unknown. will get through this together. I’ve had to reinvent myself, and as many There are some inspiring stories of of you may know, I’m a people person. how local businesses have reinvented I love a hug, and I love the personal themselves, not for any other reason interaction with our than necessity. community, which is It’s a huge I’VE HAD TO such an important part hats off to all REINVENT of my make-up and my businesses who MYSELF, AND AS MANY role as Mayor. have thought OF YOU MAY KNOW, I’M So please, take the creatively by A PEOPLE PERSON. I time to be thankful that looking at their we are getting through business models, love a hug, and I love the this together, reflect making changes personal interaction with on what it means to and monitoring our community, which is be part of the Port the way they such an important part Macquarie-Hastings deliver services of my make-up and my community and more on a daily basis. role as Mayor. importantly, take the It’s about being time to be extremely on the front foot, exploring different product offerings, proud of what we have achieved. Stay safe everyone. zigging while others may be zagging, and Peta. staying strong on this extremely bumpy
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Kids who
RIP R
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i Rhys. You're a familiar face down here at the Port Skate Park, but for those who don't know you, please introduce yourself. Hi, I’m Rhys Evans. I am 11 years old, and I go to St Peter’s Primary School. I was born in the U.K. in Leeds, but we moved to Port when I was two. You've been skating since you were seven years old. At a time when scooter riding was so popular amongst kids your age, what was it that made you get into skating? I got my first skateboard when I was six and a few months later, Dad got chatting with one of 70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Picking up a skatie at just seven years old, RHYS EVANS QUICKLY WENT FROM AMATEUR TO ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON. Now spitting out tre-flips and grindin' rail like nobody's business, you'll find him at the Skate Park every day, just ripping it up.
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"street", which is rails, ledges and other types of small ramps. The other styles are "Park/Bowl", "Vert" and "Freestyle", which are creative tricks on flat ground. You're now sponsored by the lovely Matt I don’t really and Shelly Scully at know why I chose Innervision Surf and skateboarding over Skate. Tell us a little bit the local skaters, who scooter riding; I have about this and how it happened to run after came about. tried both, but I love school skate lessons. Inner Vision is the best the freedom and all of They signed me up on skate shop in Port! My the different styles of the spot, and I learnt fi rst ever skate deck was how to "drop in" on skateboarding. I prefer an Element board from the quarter pipe at my to skate ‘street’, which is Inner Vision. As a skater, I first lesson. (Thanks rails, ledges and other go through a lot of skate Jakob!) It didn’t take types of small ramps. shoes and decks, so I was long before I was dropping in to Inner Vision hooked! I don’t really so much that Matt and know why I chose Shelly began to notice how much time I was skateboarding over scooter riding; I have tried putting in at the skate park and my progression, both, but I love the freedom and all of the different styles of skateboarding. I prefer to skate and they offered me a spot on the Inno Crew.
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It doesn’t matter what age you are, or what level you are at, because everyone is just there to have fun, make friends, and learn new tricks.
I was stoked, and I am grateful for their support. You're certainly dedicated and committed to your sport. What type of training is involved? In the beginning I would probably get to the skate park two or three times a week. Now, I skate every day ... unless it’s raining. The skate scene in Port is pretty tight, and I know most of the local skaters. Every day I skate with someone different, and most of them are a lot older than me. In skateboarding, it doesn’t matter what age you are, or what level you are at, because everyone is just there to have fun, make friends, and learn new tricks. I skate at the Port Skate Park at Town Beach, but I take my skateboard with me everywhere - even when we are travelling. I love finding new skate parks and "street" spots; it helps with my progression and tests my ability.
What new tricks have you been working on over the past six months, and what are you most proud of about yourself and your achievements? I have been working on a tre-flip/360 flip down a ledge, and I have landed a couple up a ramp (which is easier). I have lots of bruises and have had many stacks, but it hasn’t stopped me from getting back up and trying again and again. Skating has made me much braver. I used to be a really shy kid, but skating has given me confidence, and now I have no trouble talking to new kids at the skate park. Who is your inspiration in the skating world? Skaters like Milton Martinez, Nyjah Huston, Ryan Decenzo and so many more. I love watching Braille Skateboarding on YouTube,
because they teach skateboarding to skaters of all levels. I’m inspired by skaters who don’t give up, and I hope to inspire young skaters to give it a go too. What are your dreams for the future? I would be over the moon if I could be a professional skater. Skating all day, every day and travelling around the world … that’s what I dream of. To achieve this, I’m working at getting better at all styles of skating, and I try to skate my hardest and learn new tricks daily. For anyone who wants to keep up with your Sk8 life, where can they find you? You can follow me on insta @rhys_sk8 … or come say hi to me at the skate park; that’s where I am most afternoons. Thanks Rhys. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Someone had to keep aviation going in the family, and it wasn’t going to be him, so I stepped up to the role! As a younger kid, I remember going to air shows with Dad and watching him fly model jets.
and what's your earliest memory? I think aviation might as well be in my blood. My family’s passion for aviation goes right back to my great grandfather, who was a licensed engineer on DC-3 and DC-4 aircraft. My grandfather was an aircraft mechanic and flew gyrocopters when he was younger and still flies model aircraft as a hobby. My father is a licensed aircraft engineer and a pilot. My brother Aden used to be more keen on airplanes, and as he lost interest, I gained interest. Someone had to keep aviation going in the family and it wasn’t going to be him, so I stepped up to the role! As a younger kid, I remember going to air shows with Dad and watching him fly model jets. Then when I was 10 years old, my father brought home a light sports aircraft on the back of a truck that was in need of rebuilding. We would talk about what design to put on the aircraft and the places we would go. But
my most memorable event was the first time I flew with Dad. I loved the sensation of being in the air. Since then, we have had many enjoyable trips to airshows, club fly aways and day outings all over NSW. You have a scholarship with the Hastings District Flying Club + HDFC Flying School, which is fantastic. What's involved in this, and how are they helping you reach your goal? Hastings District Flying Club offers scholarships to youth in the community every year. Last year I submitted my application, which involves answering questions about why you want to learn to fly and what you intend to do in the future. Applicants undertake a trial introductory flight, and the instructor provides feedback to the club committee, who review all the applications before deciding on who receives the club scholarship. I was very thankful
to be one of this year’s three scholarship recipients. Aside from this, the members of the club are very supportive and encourage me in my flying. At club social events, members frequently enquire about my flying progress and continue to motivate me to reach my flying goals. Looking forward, where to next - and what goals are you working towards? The next step is to sit my Basic Aeronautical Knowledge exam, which is more comprehensive than the pre-solo exam and allows you to obtain your recreational pilot's certificate. After this, I am looking forward to getting my passenger endorsement and being able to take my friends for scenic flights over beautiful Port Macquarie! Then there are other endorsements to be obtained, including my cross country licence, being able to fly in formation with other aircraft, and I would also like to get my aerobatic endorsement. I hope to eventually acquire my Instructor’s Licence, so I can pass on my passion for aviation and teach others to fly. Thanks Dior. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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circuit, executed the landing and cleared the runway, and it wasn’t until I pulled up in front of the aero club hangar that I felt both relieved and happy with what I had just achieved. Pretty surreal to be up in the air one minute, and getting ready for school the next. What training and preparation was involved in the lead up to this big day? Flying involves a combination of theory and practical training. There are in-depth briefing sessions, where you When you fly, all cover off on topics of your focus and such as: effects of attention is on what you controls; climbing and are doing inside the descending; straight aircraft and what is and level flight; turning happening outside the and stalling. You also aircraft. You don’t have need to undertake self time to be thinking study, in order to pass about other things ... the pre-solo theory exam. This requires you to be familiar with aerodynamics, air legislation, communications and radio use, human factors and mechanics of flight. The theory is essential, so you can understand what is happening in the air, and it With a family history in aviation, it's pretty obvious where Dior's is an important part of making aviation safe. On the practical side, there are short briefings influence for piloting comes from. But her passion is something prior to each flight. On my very first flight I that she drives all on her own. Having just completed her first was allowed to fly the aircraft and was talked solo flight, Dior is flying high, with big dreams on the horizon. through each step of flight by my instructor, Mike. Then it is a matter of demonstrating that you are able to undertake all aspects of flight ongratulations! You've Mike Bullock, so I felt ready and was focused proficiently, from take off to landing, turning just completed your first on the job. Then came the moment when Steve and stalling, until your instructor feels you are solo flight here in Port said, "You seem very confident" and jumped competent enough to fly safely on your own. Macquarie. Tell us about out of the cockpit. I taxied out to the runway The amount of time varies from individual to that day and what it was on my own, completed my preflight checks, individual. like for you. and concentrated on the radio calls from other My instructor emphasises the importance of We had planned for me to undertake my solo aircraft in the circuit. At the end of the runway, mental rehearsal as well - practicing flying the after school; however, it was gusty throughout I undertook a final pre-check, then I applied full circuits in your mind. When you add up all the the day, and it was looking likely that the flight throttle and in less than five seconds I was in the hours of theory study, practical training and would be cancelled. But often in flying, things air all on my own, for the very first time. mental rehearsal, it does seem like a lot, but the come together at the final hour; the wind When you fly, all of your focus and attention end result is more than worth the effort. dropped, and the conditions came good. So, is on what you are doing inside the aircraft and You come from a long line of aviation after a ground briefing with Steve, the chief what is happening outside the aircraft. You lovers and pilots. How much has your flying instructor, we took to the air. I have had don’t have time to be thinking about other family infl uenced your passion for flying, 17 hours of flight training with my instructor, things or what you are feeling. I completed the
Dior T O P PA Z Z I N I
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Girl GUI D ES
A VERY REWARDING OPPORTUNITY
Wauchope Girl Guides have many activities aimed to help your daughter become a strong, confident young woman.
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hey provide a recognised way to give back to the community, transfer skills and support the next generation of young women. Kelly Steele spoke with Chrissy Jones, explaining how these volunteers are impacting the future of the world. Tell us about yourself and your involvement in Wauchope Girl Guides. My journey with guides didn’t start as a child, like many - I only became involved when my husband took our eldest daughter along to try it out. That was 10 years ago. At first, I was a parent helper during unit meetings and was also a member of our support group. I helped with fundraising stalls etc. until I became the treasurer of the support group in 2014. I have now been in the role of District Manager for almost three years. I currently have my three daughters in Girl Guides in Wauchope. What do Girl Guides do? Girl Guides is an organisation for girls and young women in Australia. Our mission is to empower girls and young women to become confident, self-respecting, responsible community members. We provide girls with opportunities to grow, learn and have fun in relevant and meaningful ways, such as camps, campfires, cooking skills, team building activities, arts and craft, outdoor activities, earning skills badges and much more! Has COVID affected your activities? If so, in what way? Yes, it has. Our face-to-face meetings were 74 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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We provide girls with opportunities to grow, learn and have fun in relevant and meaningful ways.
cancelled for quite a while, and two planned camps were cancelled only days short of them happening. We were given great support by our state office, with resources to try online meetings to keep the girls engaged. Although this was a challenge in itself, my girls helped me work out the Zoom meetings. Some were able to make this work, while some couldn’t - for many different reasons. Parents found it concerning for their daughters to be on technology for school all day to then be on it again for Guides, which is understandable. We had Term 2 off but are now back to face-to-face meetings as of Term 3, and we are surprised by our returning numbers. We had all our girls return, plus more - which is great to see. What age groups do you cater for? Our younger unit starts from school age (about five - six years old) up to our senior unit (18 years). After that, we have options for leadership and also an adults’ group for 18 30 year olds. Do you fundraise? How can readers help? Yes, we hold regular fundraisers. We have in the past held trivia nights, raffles and an evening to support our local small businesses, which involved a number of party plan businesses like Tupperware, Nutrimetics, Norwex, to name a few. One of our most recognised fundraisers is our Guides biscuits. This year has changed
things a little, and biscuit sales are online. Those wanting to purchase can find them at https://www. girlguidebiscuits.com.au/ To support Wauchope, please put Wauchope Girl Guides NSW on the checkout form! Some of your memorable experiences with your involvement with the guides over the years are ... So many! A standout is seeing young girls turn into confident young women. The effort and time our volunteer leaders give to provide great experiences for the girls are extraordinary. They can attend international and state events, as well as get to know other Girl Guides in their own region. One state highlight is a sleep-out at Taronga Zoo for girls 10+ sleeping under the stars, with around 1,000 other Girl Guides. There are so many memories to be made with friends! For adults looking for a rewarding opportunity with options for self-growth, Girl Guides can help! Many units are always looking for volunteers to join their teams, with many opportunities for the ladies to extend their skills, while also being a mentor for these young ladies. It's a very rewarding opportunity. If anyone is interested, get in contact with Girl Guides NSW, who can get you in contact with your closest unit, or contact your local unit for more information. Thanks Kelly.
ST COLUMBA
EMMA BYLSMA
Emma Bylsma took on the role of Head of Secondary at St Columba Anglican School at the beginning of 2020, having moved to Port Macquarie from Kinross Wolaroi School in Orange, where she was the Head of Student Wellbeing.
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ou stepped into the role of Head of Secondary this year, during a unique time in the world. How has this impacted your leadership style? Modern educational leadership is complex and demanding, especially in the current world conditions. Navigating change during uncertain times brings added challenges and increasingly difficult decisions. What happens in schools today is likely to determine what will happen in our society in future, and yet there is no rule book to follow or perfect answers. For me personally as an aspirant leader, during this time displaying resilience, respecting self and others, leading by example, employing two-way communication and possessing flexibility are all of utmost importance. What are you most proud of in your career? The ability to be able to pursue a career and still have a family. Balancing a career with the demands of childcare often requires
a combination of personal sacrifice and creative problem-solving. What is your best advice for students in Year 12 this year, undertaking the HSC in such difficult circumstances? I often call myself "The Accidental Leader", because it reflects my leadership journey. I never set out to become a leader, nor did I have a defined career path that I wanted to follow; indeed, does anyone? The biggest lesson I have learnt over the last five years of my leadership journey is that you need to take responsibility for developing yourself. My advice to Year 12 students - be flexible, be brave, and possess a willingness to step up to the unexpected opportunities. The continuous learning provided by stepping out of your "comfort zone" is essential, especially in today’s complex and changing world. Give it a go; you have nothing to lose, and failure often provides us with our greatest lessons, or allows you to reshape the direction of your life.
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Meredith R YA L S
ASPIRING MINDS
With 41 years of teaching experience in all sectors of education - University of Newcastle, NSW Department of Education, Department of Sport and Recreation, Catholic Education, Private Education, Tutoring Colleges and one-on-one tuition - Meredith Ryals is the lady to enhance your child's education.
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ello Meredith. You recently moved to the area; what was it that attracted you to Port Macquarie? I relocated to Port Macquarie, from Sydney, for an improved lifestyle, a plethora of opportunities in the education industry, the potential for increased population growth in the area, opportunity for investment and accessibility to Sydney. You have established a very respectful business, Aspiring Minds. Can you tell us what this business is all about? Aspiring Minds is very much about assisting a child to develop holistically - socially, emotionally and intellectually - in a safe, positive environment. When working one-on-one, our aim is to provide an opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of their learning, whilst developing and maintaining self esteem and a positive growth mindset. We recognise and respect that every child is unique in personality and how they learn. It is really important to inspire self respect and self responsibility, especially with social media so prevalent in their lives. Why did you start Aspiring Minds? Teaching, in all situations, is my passion and even when I was teaching full-time I was always fortunate to be asked to tutor privately. I loved that. Establishing my own business has always been a dream, so after living in Port Macquarie for a year, with the assistance, encouragement
and support of colleagues and family, I saw the opportunity and the need for an educational intervention business, so began Aspiring Minds. It worried me to see so many children of all ages suffer anxiety, depression, low self esteem and learning difficulties (e.g. Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, ADHD) along with a reluctance to learn. With your experience in working with children and within the educational system, what do you think is most important when it comes to teaching and tutoring students? I believe that all children achieve ultimate success when they feel safe, happy and comfortable in their learning environment. This is my responsibility as the tutor. A good rapport and clear communication are paramount. They respond positively to honesty, encouragement, helpful, genuine feedback, when they are listened to and respected. Making learning fun and having a laugh with my students is extremely important, and working as a team in order to achieve a positive outcome. Children need to know they are being totally supported. Collaboration and inclusion with all stakeholders - parents, teachers, therapists - who are involved with their education, is also a guarantee to success. What do you enjoy the most about your role and running your business? I love everything about my role and running Aspiring Minds - meeting all the children and their families. Helping them to achieve success and their goals, observing changes in their attitudes to learning, is hugely satisfying. It is
so sensational when this happens. I thoroughly enjoy the many challenges in organising, planning and implementing an individualised program for each student. Flexibility is key. So often what is planned for a particular session can shoot off into a totally different direction and topic. It is exciting when a child asks lots and lots of questions in order to solve a problem, and then finds a solution. How do you stay up-to-date with what your students need and the different learning techniques? Professional development is a constant in my life and is necessary in being able to support my students to achieve. I am a member of several educational organisations, who provide in-service learning, webinars and online courses. I also continually update my knowledge of the NSW Department of Education curriculum and trends in international education. During October, I am completing the “Sounds-Write” Course, which is being conducted online by SPELD (Solutions for People Experiencing Learning Difficulties) Australia. “SoundsWrite” is an evidence-based linguistic program providing successful outcomes for students learning to read and spell. I am thrilled to be participating in this course and being qualified to teach it. Children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia benefit greatly from this program. If all goes to plan and COVID restrictions are relaxed, next year I am going to complete The Teacher’s Certificate in Learning Difficulties, also being conducted by SPELD. Thanks Meredith. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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College
SECONDARY
WESTPORT CAMPUS
PRINCIPAL IAN ROSS
To the class of 2020 ... Your teachers see you, your community sees you, and we’re all in awe of your spirit and determination. We caught up with Principal Ian Ross for a positive rundown on education, the upcoming HSC exams, and the students of 2020.
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i Ian. There's no telling that 2020 has been a tumultuous year for everyone, especially our students. What challenges have you faced together, and how have you overcome them ... Positive and negative? Yes, indeed, 2020 has been a very different year in the educational space. One of the biggest factors of concern, particularly earlier in the year, was the uncertainty of what was coming in the future. Would schools be open? How were lessons to be conducted? How would assessment be handled? What would be the implications on events such as the HSC, school formals and graduations? A lot of questions to process, as we were entering the world of COVID-19. As a system, Hastings Secondary College takes direction from the NSW Department of Education, who gets their information from Health NSW. As a result, our guidelines on how we operate are well defined. My job, as principal, is to communicate that to our educational community and to develop a plan that will give the students in our care the best education outcomes throughout this period. Each campus has been asked to develop a backup plan, in case there is a health issue at the time of the examinations. This includes an alternate venue, transport, venue setup, communication to the college community, what to do if students become unwell, 78 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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responsibilities for students, staff and families in the case of a COVID-19 situation. Both students and staff are quite a resilient bunch and as long as you supply the resources and allow uptake time, you can usually get a positive result. It may not be the exact result that you were aiming for before the even, but a good result, nonetheless. One of the main positive things to come out of the COVID-19 experience was the development and runout of online teaching delivery and development of resources for learning. Throughout the COVID-19 situation, Hastings Secondary College has always remained operational. This was so we could cater for the students of essential workers and for other students who needed to attend school for various reasons. Year 12 students have continued to deal with situations out of their control, whilst staying on track with their responsibilities. What are you most proud of with your class of 2020? Our students continue to demonstrate impressive qualities, including the taking of responsibility for both their educational and social development. I think that this attribute of the students from Hastings Secondary College is the most rewarding. Seeing students develop a vision and then strive to meet that vision makes me, as an educator, very proud. It is an indicator that we will be passing the world on to a generation that is confident and accepting of responsibility. And then of course, there are your
teachers who support these students and each other. Again, if you could sum up, what are you most proud of about your staff? The staff continue to go "above and beyond" in their support of student learning and also in the support of each other. During the current situation, the staff have demonstrated a collective, collaborative drive forward in the development of different ways to deliver educational content to students. This delivery has covered areas such as online learning and also a blended approach to lesson delivery, which has catered for the learning needs of all students, in all years, at the college. October is a big month for HSC students. What message would you give to all those in our community who are about to sit their exams? For the students who are currently preparing for the 2020 HSC, I would give the following advice: • Stay strong - you have done the hard yards. Only a little bit to go. • Believe in yourself - you have more knowledge in your head than you think. • Have a study program - get advice on effective study techniques. • Utilise the support the school provides - there is no need to go it alone. • Have a Plan B - that’s OK. And ... • Smile. You don’t own all the problems in the world. Thanks Ian.
St Agnes'
CARE & LIFESTYLE ST AGNES’ CARE & LIFESTYLE IS THE NEW NAME FOR CCA AND CENTACARE. From last month, the names of Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA) and Centacare will change to St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle.
need it, with the lifestyle they want.” CCA has provided services in residential aged care, retirement living, home care and respite care, while Centacare provided offerings across NDIS, community housing, therapy services youth and family support programs. “Bringing these services together under one name means we have a truly unique service offering that cannot be replicated,” Mr Spencer said. St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle General Manager Bronwyn Chalker said the new name builds on the legacy of CCA and Centacare.
Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA) and Centacare are changing their name. From September, both will be known as St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle, bringing together a unique offering that provides great care to people in our local community with the lifestyle they want. The name change will not alter the high quality services that have been delivered by CCA and Centacare locally for decades.
Services offered by St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle include: • • • • •
Home Care Residential Care Village Living Disability Services Respite Care
• • • •
Therapy Services Community Housing St Agnes’ Food Services Family and Youth programs
For more information go to: www.sacal.org.au/our-new-name or call Donnelly House on 5525 3600.
“Both CCA and Centacare have a great track record for the delivery of service to those in the community who need it most,” Ms Chalker said. Ms Chalker said that while it was preferred to launch the new name with staff, clients and their families in person, it was not possible in the COVID-19 climate. “Instead, we invited everyone to watch a video on our new website, where viewers get an understanding of the depth of services St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle offers,” she concluded. Watch the video at: https://sacal.org.au/ our-new-name/.
Celebrate life!
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t Agnes’ Catholic Parish CEO Adam Spencer said the name change has been a culmination of joint organisational and operational activities between the two service areas of the Parish. “Both CCA and Centacare have delivered great services to the community for decades and over the past few years have benefited from working more closely together and learning from each other,” he said. “The new name St Agnes’ Care & Lifestyle better reflects what the two entities offer collectively, which is great care for those who
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S U N D I A L D E N TA L
USE IT OR
LOSE IT
Healthful WISDOM with SHANNON LAWRENCE
With the New Year fast approaching, most Private Health Insurance benefits expire annually on December 31st … and that can leave you and your family out of pocket for their 2020 dental benefits.
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nfortunately, most health funds do not allow rollover of benefits - they take a use it or lose it approach, and with much of 2020 being a wash out for preventative health care and dentistry, it’s time to take action. Most major Australian health funds have a benefit year commencing on 1st January through until 31st December. What does this mean for you? Well, if you haven’t used all of your dental benefits before the end of the year, they may expire, lapse, run out, or become invalid. And, you and your teeth will be left without the care that (let’s face it), you pay for through your private health insurance. Take action now! It is essential that if you have any required treatment they be booked in and completed before the end of the calendar year,
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so you can maximise the use of your insurance benefits. If you haven’t had a checkup in the last six months, it may be an idea to book in as soon as possible, so any additional required treatment can be scheduled before the end of the year. From October to December we tend to be heavily booked, so we recommend calling as soon as possible to book in, as many of our patients take the opportunity to get their dental treatment before their private health benefits expire. For more information about your private health insurance and dental benefits, call your provider directly to find out what you’re eligible for and what you can claim for before time runs out and remember, use it or lose it! To make your next appointment with our caring team at Sundial Dental, call 6583 3533 or visit www.sundialdental.com.au
R.U.M. (Return Unwanted Medicines, not the drink)
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o you know what to do with medicines you don’t want anymore?
The RUM project is a way for medicines that are either out of date or not needed anymore to be disposed of safely. Community pharmacies have RUM bins that all returned medicines are placed into for safe destruction. This means that any medicines you have that you don’t want anymore should be returned to a pharmacy, where they will be disposed of in the RUM bin. The bins are collected when full and incinerated. Sharps and blood testing strips cannot be taken to a pharmacy for disposal. Why can’t I flush unwanted medicines or throw them in the bin? Medicines that end up in landfill or our waterways can be ingested by our sea life. There are measurable amounts of medicines in Sydney Harbour!
Our sea life will be adversely affected by this and ultimately, so will we. We don’t want to be taking in medicines through our food and water. There is also a risk of medicines being taken by children from the garbage that can lead to poisoning. Can I still take a medicine if it is out of date? If you take a medicine that is out of date, there are two likely outcomes. The first is that nothing will happen, as the medicine has lost its effectiveness through breaking down into another form and will not work. The second is more dangerous, as the medicine may have started to break down into a dangerous form, which could be harmful. For these reasons, you should never take an out-of-date medicine and you should check the expiry dates on medicines in your cupboard, so you can take any that are out of date to a pharmacy to be disposed of.
MAKE THIS SPRING THE SEASON
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143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au
Call (02) 6584 6266 | Shop 3, Colonial Arcade, Port Macquarie eclcosmedic.com.au
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gorgeous!
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PORT CENTRAL S/C (OPPOSITE TARGET)
6583 4933
ENTRY
BOOKFACE
TARGET
SHOP 47, PORT CENTRAL S/C
MON - WED & FRI: 8AM - 6PM THUR: 8AM - 7:30PM SAT - SUN: 8AM - 5:30PM PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: 10 - 4PM
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ENTRY MICHEL’S PATISSERIE
PROUDS
BAY PARK PLAZA TENANCY 5, BAY PARK PLAZA, 4 BAY ST (OPPOSITE MCDONALDS)
ENTRY
PROPRIETOR: PATRICIA COLASANTE
SETTLEMENT CITY
MON - FRI: 8AM - 8PM SAT & SUN: 8AM - 5:30PM PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: 10AM - 5PM
6583 2697
†The save prices listed are calculated from the suppliers RRP (Recommended Retail Price) at the time of preparation and where no such price exists is the retail price found at competing retailers. Due to discount policy we may not have sold at RRP. All products subject to manufacturers availability. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.
Y BA
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MCDONALD’S
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PIPEWORKS CAFE KMART
PROPRIETORS: ALAN BANH & BASHAR IKBARIEH
SALE ENDS: 15 TH OCTOBER 2020
focus_contributor.
Vibe S AV V Y
with VANESSA LAWRENCE FROM THE STYLE VIBE
Hey everyone! I am so excited to bring you a complete "What’s Trending" column, as things start to heat up and hopefully social distancing restrictions come down, allowing us to start returning to the new norm, enjoying group gatherings, dining out, and looking fabulous while doing it!
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o, what is trending this season? in winter" people (disclaimer - this is not And, how can you make it work me! Ha ha!) this new style will be perfect for for you? you! Stunning cut out style bodycon dresses Stand out styles: are this season’s hottest look. Add a pair of Fit and Flare Dresses - A gorgeous fashion-forward square toe heels and logo "perfect for Port Macquarie" style made of bag to create an instant Insta-worthy shot! sheer lightweight fabric, sculpted up top to Linen, Linen and More Linen - Why do include a long, medium, we love linen? Because or capped puff sleeve. This it is more durable than style is fitted or elasticated cotton and gets an A+ for through the mid-section, comfort (especially in warm Why do we love then flares out from the hip weather!) Brands such as linen? BECAUSE down. Look for cute small Assembly label (available IT IS MORE floral prints in both midi and from Saltwater Wine) make DURABLE THAN maxi styles, which will flatter some seriously cool staple COTTON AND most body shapes! Make pieces and two-piece sets, GETS AN A+ for it funky by adding leather or check out Charlize Rose comfortability boots, or dress it up with a (under Rydges Hotel) for a (especially in great pair of heels. great selection of styles in warm weather!) Padded Tees - Yep, that beautiful fabrics that will '80s influence is still going suit just about every size strong in the world of and shape. fashion. Similar to a muscle Sunglasses - A great pair tee but with shoulder (or three) of good quality padding ... A keen fashionista will secure a sunnies can be the cherry on top to make good quality white one, and team it back an outfit stunningly complete. Aim to own with their fave denim pieces and a fresh pair two - three pairs with different coloured of white sneakers. frames to suit different looks. Starting with The Cut Out - If you have been one of black, I’m loving the Valley Eyewear range at those exceptional 'summer bodies are made Innervision on William St. The next "must-
have" colours to add to your collection is neutral and/or gold pairs with a finer frame, for that effortless but super stylish beach or boho look. My fave here is a classic Ray-Ban. So, Let's Talk Colour - Please do not be afraid of adding a little bit more colour to your life! A wickedly out-there colour combo I’m loving this season is greens and lilac! If you prefer to play it safe, wearing just one of these colours is OK too. Green is the colour of growth and purple promotes creativity, so that’s a big yes from me! Shades of khaki, coral, saffron, muted tones and blue hues are all going to be huge this season too. Stepping out of your comfort zone and incorporating new styles and colours can honestly give you the biggest confidence boost, change your mood, and also change the way others see you. Do yourself a favour and see what wearing colour can do for you! TIP: You can wear any colour; it’s about where you place it. If you want to know more about how to look and feel your best in the coming months, I can help. Just jump on to my website www.thestylevibe.com.au and fill out an enquiry form - it is that easy. Happy shopping! Sending love and good vibes always, Vanessa x GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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FEATURED SPECIALIST
Dr. Ivan M. Young
Ophthalmologist MBBS (Adel.) FRANZCO Dr. Ivan Young is committed to assisting doctors and optometrists with exceptional eye care for patients. Dr Young, what brings you to Port Macquarie? I have been consulting around the Mid North Coast since 1999, my practice Mid North Coast Eye Clinic has been providing specialist eye treatment services in Taree, Coffs Harbour and Grafton. My family and I moved to Port Macquarie 2 years ago attracted by the natural beauty of the coast and the friendliness of the community. The Mid North Coast Eye Clinic - Port Macquarie is our fourth clinic and is a great addition to the eye specialist services offered locally, increasing access for the community and shortening waiting times for patients. Can you tell us what services you provide? Mid North Coast Eye Clinic has a strong commitment to advancing the practice of ophthalmology and delivering the highest quality outcomes. We carry out eye tests, diagnose, treat eye diseases and perform eye surgery with specialty in small incision cataract surgery and oculoplastics. What type of procedures do you perform? Cataract Treatment, Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment for both early and advanced stage, Macular Degeneration Diagnose & Treatment,
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Glaucoma Treatment & Surgery, Vitreous Floaters with specialised lasers. Oculoplastic treatment and surgery including Ptosis, Blepharoplasty, Drooping upper eyelid, Ectropion, Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), Eyelid skin cancers. Where do you provide surgical procedures? I provide services to both privately and self-insured patients at Coolenberg Day Surgery located at 60 Lake Road, Port Macquarie. Where is your practice located and how does someone go about being referred to you for a consultation? Our team is here to partner with doctors and optometrists to improve eye health in Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast. Our clinic is located at 163 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie. To make an appointment please call 1300 898 935 during office hours or email reception@midnorthcoasteyeclinic.com.au
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Family YOUR
PR ACTICE
Your Family Practice is now open in a beautiful new complex in Lakewood. FOCUS caught up with Practice Manager Deidre McInherney-Nash, to learn about the history of the practice and what the future holds.
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ongratulations on the completion of the new practice at Lakewood. Tell us about the history of your family practice and why the decision to expand was made ... Thank you. Your Family Practice opened in 2015 at 97 Bold Street, Laurieton and is proud of opening a second larger practice at 106 Sirius Drive, Lakewood recently in July 2020. Your Family Practice started out as a small practice and has rapidly outgrown itself since opening five years ago; in which time the directors looked at the need of the growing community for ongoing medical services, with its expansion in population over this time. At our core, our mission was established with the objective to provide quality healthcare and assistance for the future of the community. Hence, the development of our new larger medical centre and complex at Lakewood for the expanding community. It's a state of the art complex with amazing new facilities. What services can you now extend to patients? The medical complex was designed and built to complement the surrounding residential area. It includes Your Family Practice Medical Centre, Lakewood Top Spot Café, Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology and a large commercial unit. The medical centre has ergonomic and spacious safe work areas, with ten large
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At our core, our consulting rooms, four service, not only to Your mission was nurse rooms, allied Family Practice patients, health rooms, DHM but is also available for established with the pathology, and a large the wider community objective to provide colourful waiting room patients. They are located quality healthcare complemented with a off the large waiting and assistance for large tropical aquarium, room of the medical the future of the which creates a tranquil centre. space. The furniture Lakewood Top Shop community. has been selected for Café is an added bonus providing comfort for to the facility and local all ages, from children Lakewood area. Located through to the elderly, with a children’s area as a separate shop front, it’s a nice place to and height adjustable chairs with space for enjoy the sun, a coffee, cake, breakfast or wheelie walkers and gophers. The complex has lunch after an appointment, as a take away or a verandah connecting the shop fronts and just passing by. has easy access, with a large level off-street car Also available is a vacant large commercial parking facility, separate vehicular entry and unit of 150 sqm, located separate to the exit points. medical centre and café. Available with a Your Family Practice medical centre street frontage to Sirius Drive, the exposure provide services in face-to-face consultations, and placement of this unit provides a great telehealth, home visits, palliative care, annual opportunity for businesses and services to the and general health checks, family planning, region, with public transport right outside and women’s health and pregnancy care, cervical off street parking facilities available. screening, children’s health, men’s health, Currently vacant, and with prominent counselling, vaccinations, nutritional and signage opportunity, please contact the weight loss management, sports medicine, practice on 6559 5100 to discuss your joining skin checks and skin cancer management, this complex and to negotiate a rental for your travel advice, chronic disease management and business. planning, health assessments and work cover In summary, the complex has been purpose management. built to provide a positive patient experience, Douglass Hanly Moir provides a from separate vehicle entrance/exit, level comprehensive blood collection and pathology car parking facilities, the clearly marked
walkways, to the undercover verandah linking all facilities in the complex. The medical centre especially allows for a smooth patient flow from reception to the large waiting area, to the nurse consulting/treatment rooms to the large GP consultation rooms and ancillary rooms. Comfort and ease of patient movement has been provided for by wide hallways, wide doorways and furniture to make your consultation experience a pleasant visit. Public facilities are easily accessible from the large waiting room area, including baby care amenities. The support from We are all ancillary care saves our community from committed to travelling to Port assisting in patients' Macquarie for services, wellbeing, health and Lakewood’s own and includes Tracey, Jade, promotion and Top Spot Café is a must Melissa, Wendy, Julie, disease prevention, after your medical Susan and Therese. consultation, or just by providing the Our team of ancillary a nice place to enjoy health providers include most up-to-date the sun and a snack, podiatry, hearing and medical advice and breakfast or lunch. dietician services, and we treatment possible. Your medical are adding to this team staff each play a regularly, so check with significant role in the care for individuals the practice to see what new services are who visit. Tell us about the staff here at available. Your Family Practice. With the new complex, are you looking Yes, our staff play a significant role in for new staff members to join the team? the health care of our community. We are Yes, since our expansion we are welcoming honoured to have a professional team of resumés for nursing staff and general doctors, nurses, administration and allied practitioners. If you want to work in a medical health, who are dedicated to offering the centre that has a supportive and caring best possible patient experience, putting the environment, we are ready to share our secrets patient-doctor relationship and continuity of in your obtaining a true quality and balance care above all else. of life and a good income - contact us for a We are all committed to assisting in patients' confidential discussion. wellbeing, health promotion and disease Your Family Practice has the equipment, prevention, by providing the most up-to-date facilities and patients awaiting you joining our medical advice and treatment possible. practice - so contact us now on 6559 5100. Our current team includes Dr Craig Barry, What community involvement does Your Dr Murtaza Ahmed, Dr Camillia Chooi, Dr Family Practice have coming up in the Anshul Deshmukh, Dr Fu Chong and Dr Mark future? Loman, Dr Simon Barnett, with two Registrars, Your Family Practice has always supported Dr Adam Hopkins and Dr Brock Medlar. the community, and this commitment will The nursing staff include Amanda, Kerren not change. We work with local not-forand Kylie. The administration team is led by profit groups and schools, to enable them to Practice Manager Deidre McInherney-Nash, continue their much needed community work.
In 2021, we will be working with the local high school and local Lands Council to provide a traineeship for one of their Indigenous students. This initiative provides an opportunity to a local student, but also reinforces YFP’s commitment to Indigenous health in our community. We all know that building takes lots of collaboration with many people. Whom would you like to thank upon the completion of the practice? It has been a privilege to build a large medical centre for the community and to have highly skilled local builders and tradespeople involved. We were committed to utilising local contractors, tradespeople and suppliers, particularly in these economic times. We would like to thank our local construction company, J&M East Coast Constructions, owned by Jarred and Melinda Loveday. The local trades and suppliers, GA Martin Electrical, Mastercrete Concreting, Mid Coast Kitchens, Aqua Jack plumbing, Coolcene Air Conditioning Specialists, Dales Office Furniture, Bennett Steel, Camden Haven Signs, Boral Concrete, Choices Flooring, Sean Marsh Painting, Aquamail, Encompass Drafting and Design, Pearl Bay Framing and Wizardtec Computing Services all contributed to the successful completion of the complex on budget and four months early! Thanks Deirdre. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Jin Shin J YU TSU DEBORAH CALLAN
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient Japanese treatment that brings about healing of the mind, body and soul. Deborah Callan was introduced to the modality nine years ago, has studied and practiced since and now brings the therapy to our community.
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i Deborah. Please introduce yourself and share your connection to the Port Macquarie region. We relocated to the Port Macquarie region from Sydney around 35 years ago, and found it an ideal place to bring up our three young daughters. The girls are now all grown up with families of their own; however, they love coming home to Port Macquarie from around the world. Port holds a special place in their hearts. In 2017 I relocated to the beautiful Sunshine Coast of QLD. I was fortunate to work in Noosaville at Kansha Clinic, where I practiced in Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ) and Bowen Therapy. This was an amazing opportunity, as the owner of the clinic was prepared to offer to his clients an unknown modality, with the name that sounded like a martial art, called Jin Shin Jyutsu. Jin Shin Jyutsu is similar to acupuncture, although it is offered in a different way - without the needles. Fast forward to March 2020, and COVID hit me personally, with a sudden loss of livelihood. I made the sudden decision to pack up my life and move back to Port Macquarie to be close to family before the Queensland border closed, particularly not knowing how long it will be before Kansha would be operational again. It’s funny how things work out; I have been busy offering JSJ and Bowen Therapy from my home based clinic in Port Macquarie, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice to move back. You specialise as a Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner. Tell us how you came across this healing
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Jin Shin Jyutsu is similar to acupuncture, although it is offered in a different way - without the needles.
modality and why you chose to pursue it. I always say Jin Shin Jyutsu found me. While in Singapore about nine years ago, I decided to have some acupuncture for the jet lag I was experiencing. The practitioner listened to my pulse and said I would benefit from Jin Shin Jyutsu. The treatment was a gentle hands-on treatment, while fully clothed, which took about one hour. When the session was finished, I felt a deep sense of wellbeing, peace, and at the same energetic and vibrant. As a Bowen Therapist, I was curious; I just had to find out more about this mysterious ancient Japanese art! When I returned to Australia, I waited nine months for an international instructor to come to Melbourne to teach, and that’s when I attended my first five-day class in Jin Shin Jyutsu. What exactly is Jin Shin Jyutsu, and how can it help us? Jin Shin Jyutsu (pronounced Jitsu) is an ancient Japanese art which works on the mind, body and spirit by releasing the tensions in our body that cause various symptoms. Like other ancient healing systems, Jin Shin Jyutsu is founded upon the principle that health or illness is associated with either the harmony or imbalance of our vital life force energy, called Qi. Our bodies contain energy pathways that feed life into all cells. When one or more of these paths become blocked, the damming effect can lead to discomfort or pain. Jin Shin Jyutsu, like acupuncture and acupressure, reharmonises and balances the energy flow; however, it is done through the placing of hands
on points of the body, rather than using needles. Each experience of Jin Shin Jyutsu is unique to each individual and to each session. The gentle nature of it makes it an ideal treatment for newborns to the elderly. Another standout about Jin Shin Jyutsu is the self-care factor. These simple self-help tools will be given to you for your personal at home use, after your session. Has Jin Shin Jyutsu made its way into being a complementary therapy around Australia, and how would you like to see this modality utilised in the future? Jin Shin Jyutsu is becoming well known around the world, but at this stage is in its infancy in Australia. I would love to see it used routinely alongside western medicine, because it is a great complementary therapy for everyone, especially for those who find other modalities too difficult to tolerate due to their health conditions; for example, people who use wheelchairs. Jin Shin Jyutsu has been shown to relieve pain and is beneficial for a variety of conditions, including the promotion of optimal immune function, improving digestion, fertility, and addressing autoimmune conditions. For anyone who would like to find out more and make a booking, how can they find you? Call or message me on 0438 825 777. deborah.callan@yahoo.com.au Deborah Callan Therapies Facebook. http://deborahcallantherapies.com Thanks Deborah.
Your Comprehensive Cancer Centre
Find us in Port Macquarie
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Chris O’Brien Lifehouse is a not-for-profit, comprehensive cancer hospital in Camperdown, Sydney. Cancer care at Chris O`Brien Lifehouse means no patient — or doctor — goes it alone. We take a multidisciplinary approach, which means an entire team of specialists is involved in reviewing, assessing, and developing best treatment options based on your individual needs - we’re with you every step of your care plan.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and you want to find out more about treatment options #AskChrisOBrienLifehouse Ph 02 8514 1414
Port Macquarie clinic 2 Clarence street Port Macquarie Head and Neck Clinic Ph: 02 8514 0470 Email: headandneck@lh.org.au Breast Clinic Ph: 02 8514 0255 Email: breastclinic@lh.org.au
Treating people, not just cancer
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Following the 2019/20 bushfire season, many State Forests across NSW were affected by fires.
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taff from Forestry Corporation of NSW, who spent many months fighting fires, have over the past six months been working hard on the recovery efforts in the State Forests and timber plantations that were impacted by fire. On the ground, this resulted in unstable and dangerous trees, roads blocked with fallen timber, burnt bridges, and community infrastructure destroyed. There was much work ahead to rebuild and reopen. The immediate aftermath During the lead-up and during the bushfires, State Forests were closed to visitors due to the imminent or present threat of bushfire. This closure remained post bushfires for an extended period, while crews could assess the impact of the fires and the risks to visitors. Forestry Corporation’s Senior Manager of Forest Stewardship, Kathy Lyons said that State Forests post-bushfire were incredibly dangerous places. “Post-fire, forests carry a high risk of trees falling,” Ms Lyons said. “There was a very high risk to public safety,
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so we kept forests closed until our staff could Over the fire season, Billie-Jo fought fires on inspect and remediate any risks.” the North Coast, before being on standby and Extensive damage occurred to not only trees duty officer rosters locally around Tumbarumba and wildlife, but also road infrastructure and from November to late March. Working in general forest access. Incident Management Forestry Corporation Team roles in operations, staff had now moved liaison and logistics and in Taking a flight in from firefighters to forest the field as a Heavy Plant the chopper inspectors, assessing and Supervisor and Divisional over the Dunns Creek recording damage and Commander, Billie-Jo fireground and seeing dangers. also took on the role of my parents' house Billie-Jo Brown, Community Liaison Officer and close family Production and during the Tumbarumba friends’ houses Stewardship fires, working with the destroyed from above Supervisor Snowy Valleys Council, was heartbreaking. Meet Billie-Jo Brown, local Police and the RFS. the Production and Reflecting on the Stewardship Supervisor season, Billie-Jo said that based at Tumbarumba, who manages the turning up to work knowing that, at that very forests of the Tumbarumba region and on any moment, her own family home was going up in given day could be working with her team flames was one of the hardest experiences she'd supervising timber harvesting, maintaining roads, had to deal with. ensuring that feral animals and weeds are being “Trying to stay strong and focused, knowing controlled, or ensuring that the forests are safe you and your family are losing so much was for forest visitors. really tough,” Billie-Jo said.
“Taking a flight in the chopper over the Dunns Creek fireground and seeing my parents' house and close family friends’ houses destroyed from above was heartbreaking.” But out of the flames came community resilience and recovery. “Rescuing injured wildlife and being able to feed hungry fellow firefighters gave us a purpose. Delivering care packages to affected landholders as part of the Community Liaison role and showing our community we cared and that we were there for them - we received lots of hugs of appreciation.” Making State Forests safe again Under the Make Good, Make Safe program, Forestry Corporation staff and agency partners worked hard to prepare and reopen burnt forests across the state. Over the six months following the fire season, forests were progressively assessed, risks were removed and areas reopened, said Forestry Corporation Production and Stewardship Supervisor Billie-Jo Brown. “This was careful and slow work - there were many dangerous standing trees, fallen debris and burnt log bridges,” Mrs Brown said. “Heavy rain also saw some roads slump and become even more dangerous. “We’re pleased to have reopened many of our forests now to visitors and see them recovering.” Peter Walters, Protection Supervisor Meet Peter Walters, Protection Supervisor, who is responsible for wildfire, prescribed burning, pests, weed and forest roads in the State Forests on the on the far North Coast. On the North Coast, Peter said the repair and rebuilding of roads and bridges damaged by fire is critical, so the forests are accessible for forest management and public access. “We are partnering with local industries and contractors to repair or replace bridges
Forestry staff have a personal connection with the animals of the forests, so were keen to support them during the initial months while the forests recovered.
and reopen main forest roads,” Peter said. “In Doubleduke State Forest, we worked with Grafton-based business Big River Timbers to use timber from NSW State Forests for the bridge project.” This means that not only does the recovery process support local timber communities and contractors, but also a renewable and certified product is being used to rebuild State Forests. The wildlife response While work was underway to repair forest infrastructure, Forestry Corporation staff were also on the front foot to support native fauna in the recovery. Forestry staff have a personal connection with the animals of the forests, so were keen to support them during the initial months while the forests recovered. Forestry Corporation initiated a range of programs to support native fauna during the recovery period. This included establishing water stations, installing nesting boxes and baiting for feral predators on State Forest land. Staff worked with wildlife carer groups to
train people to enter the firegrounds, and many animals were treated for recovery through these networks. Forestry staff also deployed water stations quickly across the North Coast to support animals under both fire and drought pressure. These ranged from chicken feeders, to large black tubs with ladder bridges, to the purposebuilt large metal frame with two platforms fed by a large plastic drum. The large structures were installed as a collaboration with the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, using the Gwymac Landcare design. The stations were monitored regularly to ensure fresh water supply and were set up with remote cameras. The first species using the water stations were birds, with a range of species recorded. In addition to the large suite of bird species, which included multiple species at the same time, such as honeyeaters, kingfishers, parrots, finches and bowerbirds, the monitoring cameras also recorded goannas, wallabies and koalas. >>> GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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The funding is going towards repairing damaged public infrastructure, expanding the Grafton and Blowering nurseries and begin planting activities in bushfire affected State Forests.
Chris Slade, Senior Ecologist Forestry Corporation’s Senior Ecologist Chris Slade said the nesting box project was another key initiative of the recovery process. “Our Coffs Harbour Field Ecologist Peter Simon was building hollows from burnt timber material and fitting them in burnt forests,” Mr Slade said. “From there we had a series of conversations, which saw us partnering with FAWNA (NSW) in Wauchope and NSW Rural Fire Service’s State Mitigation Services team to develop a nest box construction, deployment and monitoring project.” Project staff are also working with the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment to plan a monitoring program. “Ultimately we hope to build on the knowledge to support a healthier forest ecology in the long run,” Mr Slade said. Mick Wilson, Protection Supervisor Meet Mick Wilson, the Protection Supervisor 96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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on the Mid North Coast, who like Peter Walters, is responsible for wildfires, prescribed burning, feral animal control and roads in the Mid North Coast State Forests. The post-fire pest animal baiting program was also a critical tool in supporting native fauna recovery, said Forestry Corporation Protection Supervisor, Mick Wilson. “Winter is when feral predators are at their hungriest - they are doing it tough, preparing for breeding and chasing protein,” Mr Wilson said. “Post-fire, this puts additional pressure on native fauna during this vulnerable recovery stage. “The 2020 baiting program was the largest we have ever done and well-timed to reduce predators’ impact on recovering fauna populations.” The resilience of the forest and landscape has also supported wildlife recovery. “There is an amazing abundance of feed as
the season has improved and forests recover; ground conditions are fantastic and primed for a strong breeding response,” Mr Wilson said. The long road ahead With over 20,000 km of forest roads affected in the fires, there is much to be done to restore forest access for both timber harvesting and community use. The $46 million bushfire recovery program from the NSW Government is seeing the first stage of this rebuilding work happening now. The funding is going towards repairing damaged public infrastructure, expanding the Grafton and Blowering nurseries and begin planting activities in bushfire affected State Forests. This funding also plays an important role in regional recovery, as Forestry Corporation partners with local industries and contractors to repair or replace bridges and reopen main forest roads. As the forests regenerate around us after the fires, so too will the infrastructure be rebuilt. It may take many years to repair all that was lost in the fires, but the road to recovery has begun.
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AuthorisedAuthorised by Dr David Gil espie MP, Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446. by Dr David Gillespi AuthorisedAuthorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446.
Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446.
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Money MATTERS with DAVID ROSS
FROM DIRECTION ACCOUNTING
YOUR BUDGET ACTION PLAN
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hey say, “You don’t know what overspender, Jacqueline had no savings you’ve got 'til it’s gone”. That’s and would regularly go into crisis mode very true, but the real shame whenever urgent needs arose, such as sick is that many people, including pets, car registration and a broken hot water business owners, don’t even know what system. Jacqueline was a mess. they have, let alone worrying about losing it. The biggest part for Jacqueline was to put Let me explain ... her hand up and admit she needed some In last month’s help. Once she did article, we covered that, we showed her The classic the different species the “Beer Coaster” overspender, of budgeters and budget. Jacqueline had no non-budgeters, as Boom! savings and would well as the concept of Whilst Jacqueline the “Beer Coaster” knew she was living regularly go into budget. The Beer beyond her means, crisis mode whenever Coaster budget is seeing the figure in urgent needs arose, simply, what money is front of her was a real such as sick pets, car coming in, less what shock. The next step registration and a money is going out. for Jacqueline was broken hot water Problem is, very to work out where system. few even get this far. changes could be made They cruise along, and take action. earning an income, To do this, we started and spending it just as fast. A large majority with Jacqueline’s income. She had a solid spend in excess of what they earn, with the full-time job, and no other sources of funds, gap typically coming from short term debt, so this part was pretty basic. such as credit cards, Afterpay or Pay Day Next, we tackled her expenses, analysed lenders. Savings is just a mystical concept. them on a weekly basis, and broke it down The only true way to change all of this is to three main categories: Must Haves, Nice to put in place a budget that works for you. to Haves, and Don’t Need to Haves. So, let’s remove some of the mystery around Being single with no children, Jacqueline’s how we go about it. main Must Haves were her mortgage, I recently worked with a client, Jacqueline, utilities and food. Her Nice to Haves list was who was going day to day for many years filled with personal and leisure related items, without any budget in place. The classic and the Don’t Need list? Well, let’s just say
she didn’t need a lot of it, including high repayments on debts from past sins. By now, being able to see where her money was going, Jacqueline could then look at scenarios for reducing expenses, as well as creating excess to save. It hasn’t been easy for Jacqueline to change old habits. However, having a clear budget, or financial map, has completely changed how she sees money. We have now put Jacqueline in touch with one of our preferred financial planners, who is assisting her with future investment options. The most important part in budgeting is putting your hand up and starting. You don’t need fancy software or a complicated spreadsheet. Simply get a plan in place that works for you. Know what money is coming in, and what money is going out, then make changes accordingly.
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Craig JA MES
CHIEF ECONOMIST COMMSEC
Renowned CommSec Chief Economist Craig James will be returning to Port Macquarie on Friday 9th October 2020 for a presentation and discussion following the Federal Government Economic Report due to be released on 6th October.
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e last spoke to you in March 2019, which does feel like a lifetime ago. How has the rollercoaster that is the year 2020 been for you? Well, it’s certainly been quite dramatic. We have a once in a 100 year event here, where everything changes - the way you work, the way the economy works; the Government and its response was a shock as well. It's been quite dramatic. I'd say that's a good way to summarise the series of time. As always is the case, it doesn't matter what sort of challenge you face, there are positive ways of responding to it, and that's what we are seeing. We’re seeing that ordinarily what you would expect in a recession (which we’re currently in), retailers generally across the board would be feeling the effects. But given the significant stimulus that's been supplied, and the fact that JobKeeper has kept people in touch with and connected to their workplaces, retail spending has remained firm, particularly in terms of online spending, and espcially the stay at home market. We've seen retailers and businesses respond, and those who have been agile in terms of their response have positively reaped the gains. For regional cities such as Port Macquarie, it certainly feels like we're in a very special place right now. A lot of the businesses we deal with and speak to are having an unexpected upturn in business. What can you tell us from your research in terms of how our region is faring? We have seen a rise in the unemployment rate, and not just in the last couple of months - this has occurred over the last 18 odd months from the figures we have from the Bureau of Statistics and from the Department of Employment. Basically, earlier in 2019 the trend rate of unemployment in the Mid North Coast regions was sitting around 4.5%, and now it's closer to 7.5%, and that's the highest it's been in nearly four years. It's somewhat cyclical in terms of the unemployment rate. Of course, we did have the softening of the Australian economy over the later part of last year and earlier
this year. Last year it was basically a global slowdown, and that was due to the US/China trade dispute and Brexit. We saw generally a softening of the economy over that later part of 2019, and that's why the Reserve Bank responded at that time by cutting interest rates. So, employment has been going down, and unemployment has been going up. The amount of building work, if we look at building approvals, is still at the elevated levels of around five or six years ago. In terms of the COVID period, what we could say about the Mid North Coast is that it's really tracking in What COVID line with the broader has shown is NSW experience. We that businesses do look at payroll numbers need to be agile; and the working job they need to be able index - 3.40 - that's to respond to the around 4% down challenges that are from where it was in changes are going being faced with the terms of March 2020. to be with us for COVID-19 period. The positive thing some time. for regions like Port I think it's also a Macquarie and Coffs case of constantly Harbour is that we've had borders closed to reassessing your business model, reassessing other states and externally there have been your strategy. What COVID has shown is that more people hitting the road, and that's very businesses do need to be agile; they need to very good for regional tourism. be able to respond to the challenges we are You'll be coming back to Port Macquarie being faced with in the COVID-19 period. to do one of the boardroom lunches That's not to say we're never going to be for our Chamber of Commerce in early faced with other challenges down the road, October, and obviously you'll dive into but we certainly need to be subconsciously some of those numbers and statistics. What else can we expect to hear from you on top of our own situation and make sure we are able to respond positively to any at the luncheon? challenges ahead. The sort of trends we've been seeing It's important to get across that it's not all in terms of the financial market and the doom and gloom, and you do get challenges economy more generally - the impact in that come along from time to time. terms of COVID and those that have been The other thing is that yes, the economy is challenged. There's not really a winner or in recession, but it's not your typical recession loser, but certainly for a lot of businesses they - and that's a key point. If we look back at have been challenged by the period and the past recessions and look at the experience of sort of lasting effects that are likely on the those, this one is extraordinarily different to economy from COVID ... Things like the way anything we've seen in the past, and we've people work, the way people spend, the way seen that in terms of the response and in people get their products and services, things terms of the impact and the lasting impacts like how we are getting deliveries these days, and our way of life. We continue to learn with things like telehealth. The fundamental and we are all new at this. changes in terms of the way we live and the Thanks Craig. way we work ... we expect some of those
TO BOOK for the boardroom luncheon and hear more from Craig, visit portchamber.com.au EVENT DETAILS October 9, 12pm - 2pm. Chamber Members $80. Non-members/guests: $90. VENUE Sails Port Macquarie, Cape Ballroom, 20 Park Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 Proudly sponsored by the wonderful team at the Commonwealth Bank.
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Direction Accounting PG Loan Services Paul Gee is a well known local who has worked, lived and played in Port Macquarie for many, many years. After working with other well known local businesses, Paul has finally followed his dream of opening his own finance business, PG Loan Service. PG Loan Service pride themselves on working with the town's small businesses and have the connections to assist them with their financial needs ... Specialising in residential property, both owner occupied and investment, asset finance for motor vehicles, boats, caravans etc. and including upgrades to business themselves, such as IT equipment or a shop fitout, commercial property
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refinance and purchases, lenders who specialise in SelfManaged Super Funds, lenders specialising in ATO debt, deposit bonds availability and mortgage protection options. In addition to the big four banks, we have over 40 additional lenders on our panel. With Paul’s business qualifications and small business background, PG Loan Service is of value to any small business wishing to get the right loan.
Cashflow has always been critical for small business ownners, but in the current environment, the ability to at a glance understand where your business cashflow is heading is probably the number one priority. With JobKeeper 1.0 finishing, we are seeing many business owners who will no longer be eligible, with the balance now facing reductions in the rate paid. And while some business owners are in the enviable position of trading strongly, there will be a massive tightening for many. To ensure great cashflow management, you need to: - Invoice consistently, without delays - Price your products and services correctly - Get paid on time
- Manage your supplier payments efficiently - Have a clear cashflow plan (with ability to change scenarios) - Manage business finance options At Direction, we are helping local small business throughout October with our Cashflow Cure Program. The program covers all of the above, ensuring you have control of your business cashflow. If you would like to be a part of Cashflow Cure, simply visit our website at direction.com.au to book your place.
W E A R E YO U R O N E STO P S O LU T I O N TO F I N A N C I A L F R E E D O M T H RO U G H P RO P E RT Y I N V EST M E N T Finance
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BLUSH SKIN “We know skin - not numbers!”
Despite the odds, Blush Skin and Body is a local Coronavirus success story.
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hen COVID-19 hit, Melissa Heath from Blush sadly closed the doors to her William Street skin and beauty clinic and joined thousands of small business owners trying to make sense of the JobKeeper scheme. With confusion around eligibility, tight timeframes and increasing government requirements, Melissa called on her accountants at SeaChange for additional assistance. “We know skin, not numbers,” Melissa said. “I’m a beauty therapist, not an accountant. I didn’t want to get it wrong. “When I called Sandra and her team, it instantly took a load off my mind. With SeaChange looking after the enrolment, eligibility and nomination forms, it freed up my time to think creatively to ensure my business
would survive.” With JobKeeper taken care of, Melissa set about pivoting her business to provide virtual skin consultations and home delivered products. The Blush team stayed motivated and excited to be part of the "COVID Safe Mother’s Day Stall", providing DIY skincare treatments, skin care packs and Mother’s Day vouchers. “The lockdown provided an opportunity to highlight my passion and expertise as a skin care therapist. I stayed connected with my clients and picked up new clientele and recently put on another two team members.” As the business adapted to online sales and eventually reopened as a retail store, SeaChange were there to help. Principal Accountant Sandra Magann said her team integrated several of Blush’s systems to streamline processes and ensure accurate reporting.
“We linked Xero with JobKeeper and the Kitomba online booking system, and connected PayPal with the Point of Sale system. We supported Melissa with advice about business planning, cashflow and government grants,” Sandra said. “We’re proud to have supported Blush during these difficult months and so pleased to see the business has reopened stronger than before.”
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BUSINESS
VOICE with MICHAEL MOWLE
PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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he local economy is continuing to recover strongly from the COVID-19 restrictions, with high construction activity fuelled by strong property sales. Hospitality and tourism are also benefitting from good levels of domestic tourist visitation. Recent economic data suggest that at least the NSW economy has fared better than expected, with unemployment falling as restrictions are eased, and NSW and the regions get back to work. The Morrison Government has continued to provide the necessary but modified JobKeeper and JobSeeker support, whilst announcing higher levels of investment in infrastructure spending. It has been announced that nearby NSW Water dam projects at Wyangala and Glengowan near Tamworth will now be co-funded by the Federal Government. Meanwhile just to our north, the $1-2bn Coffs Harbour Bypass is about to get underway, bringing about 12,000 jobs to the Mid North Coast area. The recent announcement that the Federal Government will back gas as the transitional energy source is welcome news to pragmatists, who understand that industry needs affordable and reliable baseload power for a resurgent manufacturing sector, particularly in regional areas. This is critical to encouraging new investment and making local manufacturing competitive with cheap overseas imports. In addition, it has been foreshadowed that the Government may extend the housing stimulus package, which would be good news
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Unfortunately, these city based planners have for regional growth areas such as ours. As the metropolitan exodus gathers pace, cash no understanding of regional issues or site incentives for first home buyers and stamp conditions, but are applying generic rules duty relief will ensure a solid housing sector, designed for the metropolitan areas. providing employment until the recovery is more Locally, the council has endorsed an ambitious complete. capital works program of approximately $85m The NSW State Government has managed in planned expenditure for FY20/21. This the pandemic well, but now needs to make includes a range of very progress in critical necessary infrastructure areas such as the projects, that will underpin reduction of red and A further problem our local economic green tape, along with to be addressed is recovery for decades to developing policies the ongoing centralised come. In addition, council that suit regional areas. has resolved to proceed and city centric control Prime examples of with construction planning over land use approvals bureaucratic overreach for the much anticipated by the Department of are the controversial $90m Ocean Drive Planning. Koala SEPP and its upgrade. A key issue yet recent predecessor, the to be resolved by all levels Coastal Wetland SEPP. of government is a possible project funding Both are severely flawed, with gross errors in shortfall of up to $30m following revised mapping, habitat definitions and environmental budget estimates from TfNSW. guidelines. Whilst well meaning, these policies As part of the COVID-19 recovery process, do nothing for koalas or the environment in Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce has their current form and do significant harm embarked on a “Get Reconnected� campaign, in costs and delay to regional industries and to encourage all businesses to re-establish farmers. contacts and networking. The first face-to-face A further problem to be addressed is the boardroom luncheon is planned for 9th October ongoing centralised and city centric control 2020, where high profile finance commentator over land use approvals by the Department of Craig James will be the keynote speaker. As Planning. Many small regional developments restrictions ease, further networking events will would benefit in time and cost reductions from be held (go to: www.portchamber.com.au) to more input and oversight by Regional Offices help bring the business community together or councils, rather than State Government after what has been a very challenging period. town planners based in Parramatta.
JULES JAMIESON
CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS
with KATE WOOD-FOYE
FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY
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ules Jamieson is one of 68 community members and leaders studying microsubjects from the Graduate Certificate in Community Leadership and Resilience, as part of the MNCJO Resilience Network. Charles Sturt University and three local councils have come together to create a unique community of learning to build resilient, connected and capable leaders in response to recent drought, bushfire, flood and COVID. I touched base with Jules, a PMHC scholarship recipient and fellow student, to congratulate her on achieving a clean sweep of high distinctions. Jules, you are studying two micro subjects online, with over 60 other community members and leaders from Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Bellingen. This local government, community and university collaboration is the first of its kind in the country, providing tertiary microstudy and scholarships with a focus on regional recovery. What was the driving factor for you to apply for this scholarship, and what appealed to you most about the course content? I first heard about CSU’s full Graduate Certificate in Community Leadership and Resilience through the Hastings Youth Worker Network. It looked like a course that would complement my role in Community Awareness and Engagement (CAE) at headspace Port Macquarie. I also like that you could stack and mix and match the microsubjects and essentially design your own graduate certificate. Not long after I expressed interest in the course, a colleague mentioned there was an opportunity to apply for a scholarship to complete some micro-subjects of the same grad certificate. Furthermore, the scholarship offered a role in the MNCJO network (connecting Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Bellingen) that would, post study, build a stronger and more resilient community. This opportunity was timely, as I was finishing up as a member of the Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s
COVID Recovery Working Group (wellbeing division) and wished to continue supporting the community in other ways. Three weeks later, I was successful in my application and began study in June. Congratulations on completing your first micro-subject, Leading Change. How important is leading change for you in your role at headspace - particularly as we navigate our way through COVID? What skills/ learnings can you take from the study and apply in real life? Thank you. It feels good to have completed the first subject. The skills acquired are not only important, but very relevant to my role working with young people - especially during COVID, when constant change and uncertainty was, and continues, to create instability in our lives. Young people are vulnerable, and they need guidance and support more than ever to keep positive, motivated and on track. Demand on mental health services have increased, and strategies I learnt in the subject will support me to lead and implement change where necessary. Gaining extra knowledge in leadership and resilience will not only support my role as CAE officer, but also as Youth Reference Group mentor - strengthening mental health advocacy in the region. As part of the first subject you were asked to outline a change project - through the group session, did you identify any other students you could collaborate with in future community projects? Absolutely! Studying alongside so many likeminded people was an aspect I really enjoyed. Everyone had such great change projects, and their passion and commitment to them was admirable. I’m fortunate I have met others in the youth sector, and we are meeting regularly to collaborate on some upcoming youth programs. The diverse group of students from the Mid North Coast, aged from 20 - 70 joined
together for online study and workshops, with many students now coming together face-to-face to share ideas, study tips and connect on future community projects. Can you share your own study experience? The experience of being a first time university student was an interesting journey. Learning to reference, write academic reports and essays was something I hadn’t done before. I also found the assignments challenging to navigate. There were a lot of ups and downs, and even moments of wanting to give up; however, I persevered due to the wonderful encouragement my study group provided. We connected, formed our own little community and got through it together, and we created memories we will talk about forever. I’ve come out the other end of the subject more "resilient" (LOL). I would encourage others to give it a go! You never know what it may bring, or what you are capable of. I worked incredibly hard, and I am super proud of my achievements. It has certainly been an interesting process for me; it hasn’t been easy, but I have no regrets! The next subject, Building Community Resilience commences on 19th October. What do you hope to gain from this series? I’m really looking forward to the next subject of Building Community Resilience. Community wellbeing is something I’m incredibly passionate about and goes hand in hand with a "resilience" workshop I’m currently developing for young people. I hope to gain skills that will not only support this process, but learn techniques that will help others cope better during life’s challenges - in particular when in crisis. study.csu.edu.au/courses/business/gccommunity-leadership
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QUALITY CONTENT A website is your slice of internet real estate, so let’s get creative and build an online home to set your business apart. Share your unique story and express your points of difference, inviting prospective customers to get on board your journey. Make an impact, using vibrant photos and videos, supported by quality written content. Less is more, so don't overload your website with too much content. By investing in a photographer and content writer from the beginning, you’ll reap dividends in the long run. Scary as it may sound, we encourage our clients to be the face of their business online, creating a warm and inviting experience. As Jane Hillsdon, of Dragonfly Marketing, recently
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shared, “The connections that you can form with people will be far stronger than the ones that your logo forms”. We work closely with local writers to create engaging written content. As Jody Carey, copywriter, suggests, “Without great design, words fall flat. Too much text, lack of subheaders or a font that's hard to read turns people away. An attractive and modern design makes people want to stay and read your content”. Get in touch, and let’s build an engaging website, to give your business the edge online.
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Illuminate
James
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THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL E N T R E P R E N E U R S , I N N O V AT O R S , LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.
with KATE WOOD-FOYE Multi award-winning building design firm Collins W Collins came from humble beginnings in a Shelly Beach family home in 2003, with brothers and directors, Derek and James Collins, at the helm. Seventeen years later, their distinctive style, work ethic, collaborative and creative approach has positioned them as a leader in the building design industry. James shares the evolution of this successful family business built on hard work, passion and a connection to local community, as they continue to grow and reinvent spaces and lifestyles across the Mid North Coast. ames, you established the business with your brother, Derek. From the outset, you established a distinctive style and look for your clients and a new energy around the building design industry ... We wanted to bring a fresh look and feel to the design industry in Port Macquarie that had previously been dominated by traditional style architects and classic draftsmen. I had been working under John Walsh, who sadly passed away in August 2003, just before my brother, Derek was set to move up from Sydney to join the same firm. We were encouraged to take over the reins at this time, and Collins W Collins was born in our family home in Shelly Beach. We were really lucky to have the backing of many established local builders, who encouraged us to go on with the business. The construction, design, sporting and wider Port Macquarie community really got behind us in those early years - we couldn’t have done it without them. We knew we were essentially the new kids on the block, with new ideas and an unconventional way of looking at project design - that in itself was our point of
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difference, and we definitely set out to make our mark. Our building on Lord Street today reflects what we are all about - distinctive and contemporary creative designs. We tend to push the boundaries in the area of design and have set out to create a one-stop shop, basically a collaborative space for our clients, where they can access a range of design and ancillary services in one location - like interior designers, engineers and builders. We work with our client’s idea and guide them through the design and DA process to construction. COVID wasn’t on anyone’s radar for business in 2020 - how this impacted you and the team? In the first few months of the pandemic, it was a little crazy - everything completely shut down for us, whilst the world worked out what was going on. Then it was like someone flicked a switch; the design jobs started coming in, and we have continued to grow. Thankfully, so has our team. COVID has actually resulted in an increase in pace for us across the board and the building industry in general. With limitations on overseas travel, locals are choosing to spend more time at home, taking this downtime to redesign their living spaces and lifestyles. All the business patterns have changed. We have had to make sure the business is resourced with the right team to grow along with this and continue to deliver the service and quality the Collins W Collins team have worked really hard to establish over the years. Part of your success is a family owned and run company with Derek and wife Tamika and Shannon and yourself - how have you made it work over the last 17 years? I’m not claiming to know the secret to success here, but I have learnt that it is really important to know your roles and your
strengths. I love designing - that’s my thing. Derek, whilst also being a designer, really excels in management and coordination. Tamika is across all of our reporting and processes, and Shannon looks after our team of 10, HR and accounts. It can get a little crazy at times - who knew we could survive as a family almost 17 years working side by side! Thankfully, we have fantastic staff to back us up and support us. The business is constantly evolving, and so is the team - we coach existing staff into management roles, so we can work towards further expansion into new areas. Are you all about rock solid business plans and spreadsheets, or gut instinct and flow? For sixteen years we have been working head down and rolling with our gut instinct on what comes next. We always knew we wanted to evolve and grow, but it took us 16 years to engage a business mentor, Jay Bolton from SEE Business Solutions, to get us thinking about working on the business rather than in it. Over the last 18 months, we have really adapted and put plans in place to expand and diversify our products and services. Part of what has made the business so successful is our collective drive to establish ourselves as an all-inclusive building design service. It’s been a combination of instinct and planning that has got us to where we are today. We are now focusing on engineering our future and empowering our team and ourselves to take it up a notch. Who is your business hero/mentor? To be honest, it would have to be my brother, Derek, my business partner in Collins W Collins. Over the past 17 years of business together, he has taught me so much ... it’s hard to work with family, but when you know each other’s role and they complement each other ... it works. Thanks James. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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NEED A TRAINEE?
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SUPPORT
& TRAINING
A
GIVES PAULINE A NEW LEASE ON LIFE
s Pauline Law discovered, losing a loved one suddenly can turn your whole life upside down.
PAULINE
LAW
“I was placed with ETC a few years ago. I was suffering from severe depression after my husband had died very suddenly,” Pauline said. “ETC supported me through the ups and downs. They were very understanding of my situation, treated me as an individual, not as a number, and through their support I’ve got to where I am now.”
and engage in the community. When she was ready to re-enter the workforce, we helped her with training, interview support and reverse marketing to employers,” Melinda said.
According to ETC’s Disability Employment Services Team Leader Melinda Williams, Pauline has come a long way over the past two years.
After a 30 year career in customer service roles, Pauline eventually decided she was ready for a change and decided to re-train in the high growth aged care industry.
“In the early days of assisting Pauline, we just provided a listening ear and encouragement, supporting her to embrace her volunteer work
Pauline completed an eight week introductory course to working in the caring industry and enjoyed it so much, she went on to enrol in a
full course (Certificate III in Individual Support), during which time she started working casually with Bethany Aged Care. “I’m in the best place I’ve been for a long time. I’m a happy person now. It is lovely to know the work I’m doing is making a difference,” Pauline said. If you or someone you know has an injury, illness or disability and needs help finding a job, contact ETC’s Disability Employment Services team on 1800 007 400.
Call Melinda, our DES team leader in Port Macquarie, to discuss how ETC can help you.
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KEY EMPLOY M E N T Key Employment supports people with an injury, illness or disability to achieve their work and education aspirations by working closely with businesses and our community. We caught up with the team, to find out more ...
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hat services do you provide for your clients? Key Employment (KE) is not just an employment service. We offer support with accommodation, legal matters, transport issues, counselling and linking with other services. We offer extensive intervention services, including life skills training such as driver knowledge. We are the experts in job search and job matching. The team at KE will help you look for work or support you in education. We will work with you to create an impressive resume, develop your interview techniques, find a job and assist you in the application process. We offer post placement and ongoing support for as long as you require once in paid employment. We assist with any barriers that are preventing you from achieving your education and work goals. Tell us about the programs you offer. KE offers three main programs. 1. We offer a Disability Employment Service and have been getting jobs for people with disabilities for the past 29 years.
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2. KAPOW (Kids and the Power of Work) - a job readiness program for young people aged 15 - 17 who cannot attend school. It includes a relevant Cert III qualification, work experience placement and is geared towards getting young people ready for work. 3. NDIS services, including Plan Management, Support Coordination, SLES, Finding and Keeping, and Community and Social Support. We understand the NDIS process can be overwhelming and are happy to meet and discuss the right pathway to get the process started with anyone who needs support. How do you support employers? Our goal is to provide your business with quality staff who can get the job done. We will make an employment plan which develops the skills and training needed to make our clients productive workers. This plan involves our clients' goals and dreams and ensures you get motivated and dedicated people. We will continue to assist for as long as it takes to ensure the worker is able to meet all the needs of your workplace. We are also able to assist
with training, PPE, uniforms and have generous wage subsidies available. Tell us about your team. We have an awesome team comprising a manager, eight employment consultants with over 40 years' combined experience in the industry, two administration staff and eight NDIS support workers. All our staff are friendly, passionate about their job and are always available to answer any questions or queries you may have about the services and programs we offer. How can you register at Key Employment? To register, call our office on 6563 1455, complete the enquiry form on the Key Employment website, or simply pop into your local Key Employment office at any time. We have a really friendly team and are always open to speaking to anyone interested in joining our service. We are located at: 14 - 18 Tozer Street, West Kempsey and Shop 4 - 5, 65 Horton Street, Port Macquarie. Drop by at any time and find out how we can help.
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TECH TA L K
with SCOTT FROM HARVEY NORMAN ELECTRICAL
The beginning of spring is a wonderful time of year for many reasons. It means the end of the cold winter months.
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any plants, bushes and trees begin to flower again. The warming weather makes beach trips more palatable - and it means that summer is just around the corner. Unfortunately, for those who suffer allergies, spring and summer can mean months of sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, sometimes trouble breathing, and taking antihistamines as pollen allergies and hayfever take hold. Something as simple as mowing lawns can become a painful experience. In addition, the increase in humidity can create uncomfortable living conditions in the home. The tail end of the colder months is an ideal time to prep the home for the upcoming warmer weather. AIR PURIFICATION Air purifiers come in a number of shapes and sizes, suitable for different applications. The chief purpose of the air purifier is exactly as the name implies - it cleans air through a filtration process, removing the great majority of the pollutants and allergens that would otherwise be breathed in on a daily basis. Especially helpful for those who suffer allergies, purifiers can help not only with breathing easier, but also more comfortably - especially at night, potentially assisting with less interruptions during sleep. Most air purifiers will act as purifiers only taking air in, removing pollutants and allergens, then expelling the cleaned air in a mostly gentle fashion. For a proper idea of what exactly is being cleared out of the air, the Dyson Pure Cool
tower fan and Pure Hot+Cool fan and heater will give you not only the air quality but what is being removed from the air, which can be viewed via an app on your smart phone. DEHUMIDIFIERS Perhaps the unsung hero of air treatment in coastal areas, dehumidifiers are designed to remove moisture from the air, thereby reducing humidity, which in turn can reduce the likelihood of the feeling of constant perspiration during warmer months, in addition to the damage that overly humid air can cause. In colder months, dehumidifiers can help remove the moisture that would otherwise settle into wooden frames and fabrics that results in mould - which in turn stinks, looks terrible, and can cause breathing difficulties as it spreads. Dehumidifiers can either drain directly to a water outlet for constant operation, or will continue to remove humidity from the air until the on board tank is full, after which it will stop until the tank is emptied. DeLonghi have just released a dehumidifier and air purifier in one unit, which will remove humidity, as well as neutralising bacteria and allergens, offering a best of both worlds solution. FLOOR CLEANING Carpet shampoo units are the best way to achieve deep cleaning of carpets. Available in a number of configurations, the premise remains the same - apply a cleaning solution to the carpet in conjunction with a scrubbing action, then apply suction to remove the wet mess. The
result is carpet that appears cleaner to the eye, with minimal or no bacteria, allergens or dust mites - especially if pets are present in the home. Use on carpets that have never or rarely been cleaned this way will likely be a terrifying experience when the black liquid that has been extracted into the waste canister is first seen - especially if you are a renter moving into a property for the first time - but the following uses will put the mind at ease, knowing that carpets are cleaner and harbouring less harmful matter. Hard floors cannot be overlooked either - steam cleaners and hard floor scrubbers are becoming more and more popular as people become more health conscious. Caution must be exercised when using on unsealed wood floors, as steam and liquid can be absorbed into wood, likely causing damage. Steam is a great option for killing bacteria and removing some stains for those who don’t wish to use chemicals. Alternatively, the Bissell Crosswave is perhaps the best overall package - offering a cleaning fluid, a scrubbing brush action and extraction of liquid - much the same as a carpet shampoo machine, but designed for hard floors. To assist with getting ready for spring cleaning, and to help with maintaining the best environmental quality in your home this spring, summer and beyond, come and see the team at Harvey Norman Port Macquarie for all your requirements. Phone: (02) 6580 0000 Address: 160 - 174 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Constable S C R E E N P R I N T I NG + E M BRO ID E RY
Greg and Angela Smith and their team at Constable Screen Printing and Embroidery have been at the forefront of the uniform supply industry for over 16 years. We caught up with Greg, to find out about their latest investment in machinery and the team who supports the business.
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reg, can you give us an overview of your business and how long it has been in operation? Constable has been established for more than 35 years. My wife, Angela and I purchased the business in 2004, so we have been operating it for 16 years. We started with me and one staff member, four single head embroidery machines and a small six-colour manual printing press. Today we have two factories, three large six-head embroidery machines, two manual printing presses and an eight-colour semi-automatic printing press from America, and we employ 10 staff. Constable is essentially a wholesale uniform business, that offers full in-house decoration services, mainly screen printing and embroidery - but not limited to these, as we have invested in many other printing and decoration options. You mentioned the semi automatic printing machine - can you tell us a bit more about that?
The process of silk screen printing hasn't changed much since it Our garment was first invented, but it suppliers We have three is quite a labour intensive manufacture clothing multi-head embroidery job to hand print all day. specifi cally for machines; each machine Semi-auto machines are decoration, so some has six heads, which can a great option for larger be used to run the same thought has gone into operations to invest in, logo on six garments these items, to ensure to ensure consistency in at the same time. the printing outcome. It they will embroider Embroidery is a big part also takes a lot of impact or print correctly. of our operation and off our staff. The screens a preferred decoration are made the same way method for many of and everything works the our clients, as almost all garments can be same as a manual press; the only difference embroidered, there's no minimum number is the squeegee that pulls the ink across the of cotton colours and no minimum runs like screen is operated by the machine. This means screen printing, so it offers greater flexibility that the pressure and angle of the squeegee for businesses of all sizes. can be set, to provide the same consistent As a uniform supplier, do you also print from the first print to the last. What this decorate outside garments? means for our clients is that we are able to Yes, we do. However, we prefer to print provide them better pricing on large orders. on items we supply, and the reason for this is What is the capacity of the embroidery our garment suppliers manufacture clothing machines you run? GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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specifically for decoration, so some thought has gone into these items, to ensure they will embroider or print correctly. An example of this would be T-shirts; whilst they all may look the same, the difference between a cheap black tee you can buy anywhere and an AScolour tee we supply are miles apart. Screen printers around the country prefer AScolour, because the print sits so nicely on them, and they are retail quality. This is why we recommend them to our clients. What can you tell us about your team? We have a big team, too many to mention in detail but, from a customer perspective, they will most certainly come into contact with Chris Dunn, who heads up our sales department. Chris has a wealth of experience in the industry, having run and operated embroidery machines; he is a competent screen printer and has a vast knowledge of all things uniforms. The other two must mentions are born and bred locals: Perry Cook, who runs our screen printing department; and Gail Tarrant, who is our head embroiderer. Both of these team members have been with us for over 15 years each and have been the foundation of our business. Due to our growth, they are assisted by the next generation of decorators, Rebecca Ro in embroidery and Tom Biggs, our fourth year screen printer. Other than screen printing and 116 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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embroidery, what other services can you offer local business? Probably the biggest growth in our business over the years has come from our custom made services. Custom sublimated clothing but gradually things did return. is one of our specialties, whether it be a year I would like to thank our customers for six commemorative polo, school sports wear, their patience over this period, as supplies team wear, fishing shirt or martial arts gear. of garments and delivery times slowed right We offer a wide range down! of items in this area, You support so many and we design these local initiatives through I travel to the with our clients. the business, too many promotional I see you also to name, but can you expo each year, to see offer promotional give us some insight what’s new and keep products? into your business and up with branding Yes, we have philanthropic work? always offered promo trends, so we can offer As we print so many items, from stubby new ways for local items for charity events, coolers, umbrellas, businesses to stand I always admired the to yoga mats. If it out from the crowd. local businesses who put can be printed on, their hands up to support we can source it and those less fortunate in supply it. I travel to our community and realised early on that we the promotional expo each year, to see what’s were in a great position to do some good and new and keep up with branding trends, so support as well. Angela and I offer as much we can offer new ways for local businesses to as we can, as often as we can. I am currently stand out from the crowd. supporting and involved with a men’s mental COVID has affected so many businesses in health group called Self Seen - these guys are our area; how have you coped with this? doing awesome work in our local area, and I I think we were one of the lucky businesses; believe they will save many lives. we were very quiet when it first hit, and business dropped off for around six weeks; Thanks Greg.
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JOB DAY NNER! WI
LOUISE RIDDING Local lady, wife and mother of one, Louise Ridding has triumphed over the other 1,000-odd entries to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with BP and Supercars on-ground at a Supercars race event.
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hrissy Jones chatted with Louise, to find out in the ins and outs of the competition and what it means to her to win! Louise, as a car mechanic and a Supercars fanatic, what did it feel like when you were told you had won this exclusive behind the scenes experience? I was so excited when BP rang me to share the news that I had won The Ultimate Day Job. I’ve been following Lowndes for so long; I even have a tattoo to show the world I’m his biggest fan - no better way than with a tattoo! I’m sure the competition was fierce for this role, so this is a dream come true to be given the opportunity to head behind the scenes on the race track of the Supercars Championship and work with the drivers and their teams, whom I watch compete every year. How did you find out about the competition in the first place? Earlier this year in February, BP released an advertisement for one of the best jobs in the world on LinkedIn, giving Supercars fanatics the chance to rub shoulders with the drivers and staff members on-ground at a race event - asking Australia’s biggest Supercars fans only to apply. I saw the competition on Facebook and thought, "Why not!" Even though I’m a huge fan, I never thought I’d win! Were there many entries? Over a thousand entries were received, and strict criteria were put in place, to ensure the most passionate fan was recruited. This included someone who has at least five years' "experience" in Supercars obsession, strong communication skills, a willingness to travel, the ability to juggle competing priorities and overwhelming excitement, but most importantly, fluency in Larko-isms was highly regarded. It was a very close call, but I believe I stood out from other entrants for my clear passion and love for the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship. How did you prove you were Australia’s biggest Supercars fan? I live and breathe cars and have been around them since I was a young child.
Our family were all passionate about the Supercars, so it was only fitting that I follow suit! As the years went by, I knew I wanted my passion to also be my job, so that’s why I chose to become a fully qualified mechanic to know all the ins and outs of a car. I watch Supercars avidly with my husband and son; I even have a tattoo of Craig Lowndes’ signature on my right arm. I made a pact with my husband that if I could meet Craig Lowndes, I'd get a tattoo. His side of the pact was if he met Mark Webber, he’d need to get a tattoo. I was able to meet Craig - and even showed him the tattoo - while my husband will hopefully get to meet Mark Webber sometime in the future. What will be your role trackside? My responsibilities will include meeting some of Supercars' biggest stars and brightest talents, surveying the media compound, including inside TV broadcast trucks, prepping for the podium and even popping champagne and polishing trophies, attending the post-race press conference, washing and prepping official vehicles, including the Safety Car and Race Control 1, making sure each car is lined up correctly with a Supercars grid walk, and so much more. Any part of the job you are most looking forward to? To be honest, I’m excited for every single part, but prepping the podium and being part of the presentation - so close to the celebrations - will be a "pinch me" moment! I know you are a big fan of Craig
Lowndes, but who else are you hoping to rub shoulders with? Despite the Lowndes tattoo, I would love to meet Shane Van Gisbergen, Lee Holdsworth, Chris Pither and Dave Reynolds. All of them are such talented racers. When will you be taking your place? In response to COVID-19, Supercars released a revised calendar of events for the 2020 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship and will be running each event under strict protocols, to ensure the safety of drivers, teams, staff and fans. This is in response to guidelines issued by the Commonwealth and State Governments and relevant health authorities. The safety of all Supercars fans is of the utmost importance for BP, who support the measures Supercars have implemented, including strict social distancing. Unfortunately, this affects The Ultimate Day Job experience for me, which can no longer go ahead this year. However, the good news is me and my plus one will be put to work at a Supercars event in 2021, when conditions allow. The entire experience will remain entirely the same. As a woman and a mechanic, would you encourage other ladies to pursue the career? Definitely! Turning your passion into your career is a great privilege, and I think women shouldn’t let their gender be a factor in deciding which career they pursue. Thanks Louise, and congratulations!
CONGRATULATIONS from Adam Arnold, General Manager - Marketing and Innovation, BP Australia:
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e want to congratulate Louise on her appointment as the winner of The Ultimate Day Job. We received an overwhelming amount of entries from Australia’s most passionate Supercars fans. It was a close call, but Louise really stood out to us for her dedication to the local motor vehicle industry and commitment to Supercars. We’re excited to see Louise trackside in 2021 at an event to be decided on. The job opportunity comes off the back of an announcement made earlier in the year, that BP Australia has signed on a three-year partnership deal as official fuel supplier for the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship. The partnership will see the entire field fuelled with 350,000 litres of BP fuel for the Supercars Championship and Dunlop Super2 Series, providing a consistent and quality fuel for the entire field of the season. To be kept up to date on all the latest Supercars news, please head to Supercars.com or follow BP Ultimate on Instagram.
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Catriona POL L AR D
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BASKETRY ARTIST / TEACHER
As a practicing basketry artist and teacher, Catriona’s unique sculptural work offers glimpses of shapeshifting natural forms, from unnoticed branches, leaves and seedpods to stunning works that celebrate the abundance of nature. Chrissy Jones chatted with the award-winning artist, who conducted workshops at the Camden Head Pilot Station during September.
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ell us about yourself, Catriona … Growing up in the country, with summers at the beach and every other school holidays
design media and is featured nationally in galleries, high end design spaces and private collections. See www.theartofweaving.com.au You are a sculptural camping and walking fibre artist; how would through National Parks you best describe your My work is an has resulted in a deep works? interpretation of connection with the I use foraged and natural world around my world view, discarded plant material me. and through my with traditional basketry My parents have sculptures, I’m giving the and assemblage been in the local area viewer an opportunity to techniques to reimagine for 25 years, so I have experience the idea of nature. a real connection to oneness with nature. My unique sculptural this area, and you’ll work offers glimpses of find me at Washhouse shapeshifting natural most days I’m here. I’ve had several solo exhibitions and exhibited forms, from unnoticed branches, leaves and extensively in selected group exhibitions. seedpods to evocative works that celebrate the I’ve been shortlisted for many art awards. abundance of nature. My work is profiled across major art and My work highlights the link between raw
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inflorescence. I use many types of organic plant fibres, but I mainly use Australian natives, including bangalow palm inflorescence (the flower spikes) and five leaf water vine and wonga wonga vine. Foraged and discarded plant materials are used with traditional basketry and assemblage techniques to reimagine nature. My art is about truly seeing the extraordinary in everyday moments. Simply, it’s about being still, and letting the beauty surface. Where do you find inspiration? As I walk through the
foraged organic materials, like vines and seed pods, with earthy materials like base metals including copper, and natural elements like charcoal, clay and ash. My work is an interpretation of my world view and, through my sculptures, I’m giving the viewer an opportunity to experience the idea of oneness with nature. All of my woven pieces explore the connection between all living things - from the earth beneath our feet, through to the air above us and everything in between. It transforms the inherent beauty of nature into moments that encourage reflection and connection. They are a symbolic call for us to fall in love again with the world around us and see that we are bound by nature to claim its place in our heart. I have had several solo exhibitions and exhibited extensively in selected group exhibitions, been a finalist in many art awards, including Emerging Artist of the Year Craft NSW, Ravenswood Women’s Art Prize, Northern
bush tracks, inspiration
It’s not simply going online to order material. I spend days in the bush or walking through my suburb or friends' bush lots collecting, and then drying and getting the material ready to use.
Beaches Art Prize, North Sydney Art Prize, Warringah Art Prize, and Mosman Art Gallery. What type of materials do you use in your artworks, and where do you source them from mainly? Right at the beginning of my practice, it was the connection with nature and creativity that I wanted to deepen, so I made a purposeful decision to use discarded, foraged, found or gifted plant materials, and avoid bought and synthetic materials. Finding the material is a constant task! It’s not simply going online to order material. I spend days in the bush or walking through my suburb or friends' bush lots collecting, and then drying and getting the material ready to use. It’s also understanding when material will be ready to collect. For example, in early spring I collect the falling jacaranda stalks, and summer is often the best time for the bangalow palm
presents itself. I see a fallen tree with the roots exposed, and an idea for a sculpture is illuminated. Or, as I wade through the rock pools, the shape of the water against the rocks becomes an idea for a story to be told through sculptural form. You conduct basketry workshops; what
will participants take away from the workshops? I think that once you get to a certain level, it’s important to share your knowledge. We have seen a noticeable resurgence in creating traditional crafts in the past few years. I think it’s the result of how virtual our lives have become and how busy we all seem to be, which has resulted in people looking for arts and craft that reconnects them with slower, traditional creative experiences. I believe basketry helps us slow down, quieten the mind and put us in touch with our inner wisdom. >>> GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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All of my work is based on connecting my hands with my heart through nature. If you come to any of my workshops, you’ll understand that I teach in this way too. It’s so much more than learning a basketry technique; it’s connecting to age-old practices and using basketry to uncover our creativity. The workshops are a fun-filled full day where participants learn the random weave basketry technique using the wonderful bangalow palm inflorescence, which is abundant in the Port Macquarie area. The workshop is all about exploration and play - not perfection. If you’ve never done weaving before - perfect! You’ll love it and leave with a finished basket, wall sculpture or sculpture. What are some of your artworks that you are most proud of? One of my most significant works from my first solo exhibition in 2015, Love.Honor. Cherish, at Gallery Lane Cove was titled Love. It was from a large piece of ficus root I found while out walking and which had fallen off a wall. It was such an extraordinary shape and resembled a heart. I’m sure I was the only person who even noticed it and saw its beauty. I went and got my car and The workshop is all brought it home. I random about exploration wove inflorescence into and play - not perfection. it, and had to stand on a If you’ve never done chair and weave sideways. weaving before - perfect! At the exhibition, I had connection between You’ll love it and leave someone come up to me all living things, from with a finished basket, and say I had woven her the earth beneath wall sculpture or heart. our feet, through to sculpture. In my solo exhibition the air above us and at Sydney Road Gallery, I everything in between. explored the concept of This body of work 11:11 and the link between human and spirit, was about transforming the inherent beauty darkness and light, scarcity and abundance. of nature into moments that encourage I random wove a 2 m high "cloak" inspired reflection and connection. by the Maori cloaks I spent time with at A significant work was called I am of You, the Auckland Museum and layered it with which was random woven jasmine vine which xanthorrhoea resin to represent the warmth of was gifted to me, with layers of charcoal, clay, gratitude. sandstone and ash. It represented holding A solo exhibition, I am of You in 2018 at sacred our links to our ancestry, which is so Sturt Gallery, was a deeper exploration of the closely connected to the earth and the plants
Catriona
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that grow from it. The solo exhibition Surfacing explored the concept of layers of self and oneness by applying material and techniques to organic surfaces. In this body of work, through the observation and interaction with nature, I developed works that allowed colour, texture and organic form to surface. Atlantis was a prefect representation of this, using cocos palm, bangalow palm inflorescence and copper, which I oxidised. Having focused on land-based nature, I wanted to capture the ocean and my love of floating in the bay near my home in Sydney. Thanks Catriona.
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ennetts Steel is one of the largest privately owned steel retailers on the East Coast. Based in Wauchope for 29 years, tell us more about you and your family business. My parents founded Bennetts Steel in 1991 and established a deep tradition of working hard to support the local farming and logging industries in the Hastings, Manning and Macleay regions. After a wonderful career in the pharmaceutical industry, I settled back in the area and joined the family business in 2014. I see myself as the coach of an amazing team of skilled and talented men and women, who excel at their craft and provide outstanding service to our loyal customers. October is NSW small business month, where the NSW Government is supporting small business to look to the future as many enter their recovery phase. Over the last 12 months, how did you pivot to keep your business running? The second half of 2019 was a heartbreaking time for us. With so many of our customers and local community affected by drought and bushfires, there was little reprieve before COVID-19 hit. Not knowing if we needed to put staff off or close the doors weighed heavily on the entire team. Our pivot moment was to continue our marketing campaign throughout the first hard lockdown. And just as toilet paper ran out, I think people thought steel would as well! The customers poured in, and we have enjoyed helping customers complete lifestyle
Shiree GENERAL MANAGER – BENNETTS STEEL
projects, to make the most of their new normal. Shiree, can you share your experience as a female leader in a male dominated industry? I have always worked in male dominated industries, so choosing to capitalise on opportunities rather than challenges has been my focus. Being female, I generally fly under the radar. This space has gives me the time to assess situations rationally before deciding, where the boys may jump in before fully analysing the best move. As a long time HBWN member, how has the network supported you and your business? As a single mum running a business, time is always precious. I attend HBWN events to network with ladies who are warm, welcoming and happy to share their experiences. The talent pool in this wonderful group is of the highest calibre, and Bennetts Steel is lucky to have some
of these ladies working as consultants to our business. HBWN is a talent resource that more businesses should take advantage of. And finally, who and what motivates you in your daily life? Motivation has never been an issue for me. One of my favourite quotes is: “Don’t tell me the sky is the limit, when there are footprints on the moon”. I am a strong believer in positive visualisation and honestly believe you can make anything happen if you give it everything you have. My three awesome children inspire me every day in all that they do and achieve, and I love our beach lifestyle, where we can entertain in our backyard and spend time by the water. We are truly fortunate to live in such a wonderful area. Many thanks for your time, Shiree. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Garden VILLAGE SECURE AND SOCIALLY CONNECTED COMMUNITY LIVING
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ommunity living is a to remain engaged within your fulfilling and enjoyable community. option for retirees. Centrally located in Port Macquarie, Recent world events your new home at Garden Village has have emphasised all the conveniences the importance of of close access to Garden social connection, medical facilities Village offers with many people and shops and a friendly, secure impacted by the local beaches, negative effects of whilst living in a and socially social isolation. safe and supported connected Garden Village community community living offers a friendly, environment. environment. secure and Classic units are socially connected available from community living environment, $200,000. For an appointment to where you can be confident you will inspect, please contact our Village be cared for and have opportunities Manager Sarah on (02) 6582 8923.
Join us at our Garden Village Community and surround yourself with people who care
1 bedroom units available now from $200,000 To tour our friendly community call us today on 6582 8923 or visit our website www.gardenvilllage.com.au 7 Garden Cres, Port Macquarie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Secura-MED
Tracie and Rachel are a mother and daughter duo who have just started their very own business. SECURA-MED IS A LOCKABLE DOSAGE ADMIN AID STORAGE BOX. We speak to the girls about how they came up with this business idea.
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i ladies. Please introduce yourselves and tell us about your connection to the area. We're a mother and daughter, Tracie Butler (Bonny Hills) and Rachel McIntosh (Port Macquarie). In 1973, I (Tracie) moved from the Blue Mountains to Toms Creek and attended Wauchope High School, returned from South Australia in 2009 as a family and settled in Bonny Hills. We have spent many family holidays in the area and decided it was the perfect place to relocate and call home. Secura-Med is a product you have both designed and produced. Can you tell us what Secura-Med is and how the business venture came about? Tracie started employment in the aged care community and recognised a desperate need for secure medication storage, and the concept
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for Secura-Med came from there. I (Rachel) also started working in aged care, after being employed in the local real estate industry. After being faced with the same challenges in the home care sector, we started working together on creating the product to bring to market. We needed to create a product that solved many issues we were faced with when it came to medication administration and secure storage. We needed a solution to restrict direct access to medications for those who suffer from Alzheimer's, dementia or confusion and are unable to self-administer. Currently, this has been addressed by “stop gap� measures, such as the purchase of lockable toolboxes, fishing tackle boxes and laptop cases. While these measures may secure the medications, they are not specifically designed to store dose administration aids and the client's
associated medicines, care plans and paperwork. As a result, the blister packs are often damaged. Tracie's nephew, Shaun Ninness, a local design teacher at St Joseph's Regional College, assisted in designing a high quality and durable product to resolve these issues; protoypes were tested on local senior residents, then approved for manufacturing. How can readers purchase this product? We have an online store where the product is available for purchase at www.secura-med. com and we are currently approaching local chemists and pharmacies to stock the product.
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Plantations by Ingenia Lifestyle in Woolgoolga has been designed to be the perfect fit for you. A secure and private oasis where you’ll feel both relaxed and rejuvenated. And with a friendly community vibe, you’ll feel instantly at ease and completely at home. Our new clubhouse is the centrepiece of our community, featuring pool, spa, cinema, gym and much more. Call 0448 714 021 to book your personal tour and collect a coffee voucher when you visit our community.
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*Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice.
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Home I NS T E A D
Everything we do at Home Instead Senior Care is driven by our universal mission to ‘Change the Face of Ageing’. Every day, we strive to make this mission a reality in every home in which we have the privilege of caring for others with our quality care, companionship and support.
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i Nola. Please introduce yourself and tell us about your connection to the Mid North Coast. Hello, I am Nola Turnbull. I was born in Kempsey; my parents were Bob and Edna Whalen. I grew up in Warrell Creek on a dairy farm and attended the Warrell Creek Primary School and Macksville High school. My working life began in my parents' service station and café at Warrell Creek, later on in Mums' fashion boutique, the "Roslyn Ann", before commencing my nursing career in Macksville District Hospital. I later moved to Sydney and worked for a short time as a nanny to a Macquarie Street specialist's family in Double Bay, before returning to my passion, nursing, at Canterbury Women's Hospital. In 1990, following the death of my father, I moved back to the Nambucca Valley to be closer to my mother. In 1993 I bought a small grocery/ takeaway shop on the side of the highway in Frederickton, where "Fredo Pies" were born. 130 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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The shop and the customers were my passion. Following the highway bypass, I thought that retirement might be a pleasant change; alas, it didn't fit well. I was most unhappy, and it didn't seem feasible to expect my situation would change. I was a couple of years past my 70th birthday and didn't hold out much hope of gaining employment. You are now the aged care advisor for Home Instead Senior Care - Mid North Coast. Tell us how this opportunity arose. Well, upon reading a story in the Port Macquarie FOCUS, announcing Home Instead business owners Rod Lewis and Scott Marsh had taken out first prize in a business competition, I phoned to congratulate them, acknowledging the work and time that goes into the entering process, while still handling the day to day challenges of running your business. Rod extended an invitation to catch up one day to say hello. I was extremely impressed; Rod showed all the qualities I admired in a businessperson.
I was surprised when Rod phoned a couple weeks later, saying he would like to catch up again; this time though, he handed me a folder saying, "We would like to offer you a job". What a wonderful opportunity! Tell us, how has your role changed since the early days? I commenced work with Home Instead as a CAREGgiver, assisting people who needed a bit of a hand. This is so rewarding; at times I felt I should be paying them for the privilege. My role now is aged care advisor, and I assist clients through the "My Aged Care" process. Nola, who should register with My Aged Care? Anyone over 65 should register with My Aged Care; even if you are not requiring assistance at the moment, it is better to register early, rather than later. Getting registered is the first step in the process; if you are finding maintaining your home or yard a little more difficult, then it is time to ask for an assessment.
Anyone over 65 For those who should register have not yet begun their My Aged Care with My Aged Care; journey and are even if you are not unfamiliar with the requiring assistance at process, whom do the moment, it is they contact for better to register early, assistance? rather than later. Please call Home Instead on (02) 6583 be to social outings, family events, shopping 9944, and I can then or to and from appointments), companionship, arrange to visit you in your home or meet you dementia care, palliative and respite care. HISC at a place of your choice to start you on your MNC are available 24 hours a day, seven days way. The aim is to get an assessment through a week. My Aged Care to identify what support and If you are currently supported by another services you would benefit from, to keep you in provider and would like to compare what your own home for as long as we possibly can. Home Instead can offer, please contact one What types of services does Home Instead of our offices to arrange a free one-on-one offer? consultation with one of our friendly care As a Government Approved Provider, consultants. Home Instead Senior Care deliver Home Care What do you see as one of of the biggest Packages from Levels 1 to 4; they also offer services under Veteran Home Care and privately challenges for Home Instead Mid North Coast? funded services. We provide a range of services Workforce is a huge challenge, especially to help you with your day-to-day activities, as in a regional area like the Mid North Coast. well as around your home. With continued growth in the number of Our services include personal care, domestic seniors we support at Home Instead, we are assistance, garden/lawn, transport (whether it
continually needing to expand our team of CAREGivers. Since we opened in 2015, our team of CAREGivers has grown from five to 100. Being a CAREGiver (as I was originally) is a challenging but rewarding role, and we are always keen to hear from people with a passion to support seniors to live the best life they can. Can you tell our readers a bit about the business owners, Scott Marsh and Rod Lewis? Both Scott and Rod are dedicated and devoted to their clients and team members and running their business. They are exceptional; the company motto is "To us it's personal"! Well, let me tell you, they mean it; they treat their team members like family, and they go out of their way to support everyone. Thanks Nola. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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KIRINARI MID NORTH COAST
irinari Community Services provides NDIS funded, disability supports and a range of accommodation options to anyone wanting to live within the community of their choice, their way. Our Lifestyle customers & Drop in Services provide training, education and fun hang out spaces. Kirinari provides Coordination of Supports to NDIS customers and has a clinical team of behavioural specialists available for individualised reports. Kirinari’s accommodation service offers a range of independent, supported and specialist accommodation options that are individually tailored to each customer’s needs. Currently Kirinari Mid North Coast has accommodation in Taree, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and South West Rocks. Mid North Coast Business Development Manager Jane Kennedy said “Since establishing a base in Port Macquarie I have spoken to NDIS participants of all ages, and their families, and found that there is a real need for a Drop In Service that provides both social & skill development for our lifestyle customers” “ People in our community with a disability have said they want to be able to learn travel training, life skills, banking and budgeting, IT and computer skills. People want to
Our office is located at 3/16 Clarence Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444 We lookPORT forward to hearing 132 GREATER MACQUARIE focus
from you. Visit us at www.kirinari.com.au or Facebook/Instagram
increase their independence and able to transition from living with their family to living in their own home, whilst being supported. Families have asked for a Drop in Day Activity Space Space where young adults can meet to catch up for dinner, gaming and a movie night or to go out into the community as a group to see live music or to go out to a restaurant. We are delighted to say we have recently found a space that is right in the heart of the shopping and public transport hub (for travel training) in Port Macquarie, but will release details closer to the opening date. “ We will be inviting the community to join with us in celebrating the opening of the Drop in, Activity Space closer to this date. If you would like to learn more or to put in an expression of interest, or to learn of any of Kirinari’s other services across the Mid North Coast, please call Jane Kennedy on 0459 853 858. During these difficult times of high unemployment, Kirinari is recruiting for Disability Support Workers for Accommodation Supports and for Lifestyle Activities. The right person will have enthusiasm for their job. You do not necessarily need to have qualifications, however, you must be able to demonstrate your interest and the skills you have developed in other sectors that you bring with you. For recruitment please call Kathy on 0428 607 743.
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PROPERTY GUIDE
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Real ESTATE with MICHAEL PERCIVAL F R O M P E R C I VA L PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
I
INTERESTING TIMES
had always imagined that the expression “May you live in interesting times” was a positive statement that hoped the person who was on the receiving end of those words would enjoy a full and fascinating life. As it turns out, it may well be that the origins of this expression could be an oriental curse, which would make it kind of appropriate in the interesting times we are all navigating. In any case, 2020 will be nothing if not memorable for all of us who emerge from the other side, as we are swept along by the unprecedented outcomes of a health crisis of genuinely historic significance. Each and every one of us will have a story about how the pandemic has had a personal impact on ourselves. I am very aware that in the context of the lives that have been lost as a result of COVID, the impacts on my own life are incredibly insignificant. By far the worst outcome of COVID for me personally, and undoubtedly for many Australians, has been the enforced separation from family as a result of border closures. I have always thought of our amazing country as being one incredible entity and not as six states and three internal territories (apart from around the time of State of Origin of course) but the Coronavirus has certainly changed that view for all of us. I will never ever take for granted the seemingly insignificant and unimportant act of going from one state to another ever again. What was once an
inconsequential passage over an invisible line room to move and fresh air to breathe and a past a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it sign on the side lifestyle to envy in a climate that is reputed to of the highway will become, for me at least, a be as close to perfect as you can get has never celebration of a freedom we should all be able been more attractive. to take for granted. There is a reason that Port Macquarie is the There is some significantly good news second most searched suburb in the whole of emerging from the Australia on a major real pandemic however, at estate portal at present. least for those of us who The result of this The great are fortunate enough to incredible interest in Port is Australian dream call Port Macquarie our what can only be described of living on the coast home. In a time when as a mini boom. Certainly, with room to move our world is being turned I have never seen such and fresh air to upside down and inside a shortage of available breathe and a lifestyle out, there are enormous rental properties in my to envy in a climate changes happening to thirty years in the industry the way we live and that is reputed to be as in this town. There is now to the fundamental upward pressure on rents close to perfect as you structure of how we are combined with very low can get has never been employed. vacancy factors, which is more attractive. The resulting upheaval counter to how you would to work practices and imagine an economic and the overwhelming health emergency would realisation that living in large crowded cities play out. It is impossible to predict how long may not be such a good thing after all is this strong interest in living the amazing driving a flood of interest in the idea of living lifestyle that Port offers will last, but it is not in a regional paradise like ours. There are a ridiculous to think that the trend to working very large number of occupations that can be remotely and the shift away from cities is undertaken anywhere that has a good internet going to be the new normal, and the outlook connection, making an office in a city far for our beautiful town is absolutely brilliant. less necessary to maintain your employment. Please feel free to call me if I can assist You really can be sitting on a beach with a you with any questions you may have about laptop and working these days. And the great the current real estate environment and the Australian dream of living on the coast with impact it is having on your rental property. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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I T'S ST ILL
HAPPY
E V E R MORE IN 2444!
W
e focused last month on the booming rental market, but it appears that homes are selling fast right now too! That’s right. Buyer activity at open houses and internet enquiry are the highest since 2017. Median house prices are up 7.2% on last year and homes in the higher price bracket are selling very well. We have more auctions (a sign of a competitive market), multiple offers and lower average days to sell. If you are selling, this is great news as you can expect a high sale price and a swift transaction. On the flip side, low availability can make it hard to find a home in your price bracket and there is competition. The town is pumping. It feels busier than ever. The main street and cafes are buzzing and with no overseas travel, local tourism should have a bumper season - a huge boost to our town.
Regional areas across NSW are experiencing a “postcovid” boom according to reports. We catch up with HEM to see what’s happening in our property market right now. How do you explain this buoyant market? It is all about supply and demand. With all the changes in 2020, people are re-assessing their lives. We’ve seen an exodus from the cities to regional areas for a better lifestyle. As one of NSW’s most searched suburbs, Port Macquarie is experiencing the brunt of this migration. Other factors such as working remotely from home, low interest rates and high rental yields of 4.4% for investors, all influence high buyer demand. And the number of homes for sale has been dropping every month. With just 300 homes for sale, it’s the lowest in over a decade, creating the perfect storm for a sellers’ property market. HEM recently celebrated 600 sales!! A great milestone in just three and a half years. How is it all going? We are stoked with what HEM has become. We never set out to be the biggest or highest
selling agenty. We simply wanted to get away from the stereotypical, dog-eat-dog image of real estate and create a model that focuses on what is important, the clients and homes we are selling or renting. Essentially, all agents have the same “tools”, but we feel it’s the approach, attitude and what you do that is the difference. For us, a great sale price or sold sticker is not enough. People come to HEM because of our proven track record, reputation for great service and results, but above all because we are good to deal with. We treat people how we want to be treated ourselves and that is the key to our philosophy of happy ever more.
IT IS STILL HAPPY EVER MORE IN 2444! HEM Property are pleased to say that real estate is still in high demand in our beautiful town. Here are the stats for 2020 so far:
929
$590K
SOLD IN 2020 SO FAR
MEDIAN HOUSE
(1004 IN 2019)
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(UP $35K FROM 2019)
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$549K
$626K
MEDIAN 3 BED HOUSE
MEDIAN 4 BED HOUSE
(UP $36.5K FROM 2019)
(UP $1K FROM 2019)
$425K MEDIAN UNIT (UP $22.5K FROM 2019)
$400PW MEDIAN RENT (-4.4% MEDIAN YIELD)
305 CURRENTLY FOR SALE (DOWN 30% ON 2019)
MAKING THE SWITCH TO PERCIVAL PROPERTY IS EASY!
Our local, experienced property managers know the local
Our exceptional communication means we work closely
rental market, and will ensure your rental property achieves
with you, keeping you informed throughout the leasing and
the best returns. A property can represent one of your single
property management journey. We are committed to building
greatest assets, which is why we are committed to securing
long-term, respectful and approachable relationships with our
the best tenants for your property, who will care for and
landlords and tenants. We work hard to ensure your asset is
respect the rental agreement and your investment.
cared for, maintains its value and is protected.
EXPERIENCE THE PERCIVAL DIFFERENCE, BY SWITCHING TO PORT MACQUARIE'S BEST PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICE IN 3 EASY STEPS
1
Contact our Property Management office with the details of your property and sign an authorisation letter.
2
We will contact your former agency and arrange the transfer. We will collect keys, paperwork and communicate on your behalf.
3
The transfer to our agency has now taken place. Sit back and relax knowing your asset is being well taken care of by the leaders in Property Management in Port Macquarie.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 34 Buller Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 7499 I percival.com.au
With 8 ooces across the Mid North Coast, we’ve got you covered elderslifestylegroup.com.au
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A Few Simple Ways to
summer with GET READY
for
SESS & SASS
Clean out your closet ... PUT AWAY THOSE BULKY JUMPERS AND HEAVY WINTER COATS! SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, WHICH MEANS SUMMER DRESSES AND COOL TEES! A great space saving way to store your winter woolies is in vacuum sealer bags; they store well under your bed or on the top shelf of your wardrobe.
P
eel back those layers … spring is also the time to switch to lighter bedding. Ditch the flannel sheets, thick doonas and wool blankets and opt for breezier linen and cotton bedding. A change of season is also an opportunity to restyle your bedroom with some fresh linen, soft throw rug, even a few new throw cushions! Declutter each room … I know we harp on about decluttering a lot, but it’s so important! Decluttering isn’t easy; it may take a little while to go through all of your belongings, but try going through each room in your home and getting rid of things you don’t use or like anymore. Donate things in good
Hire the professionals to give your roof, driveway and deck a deep clean. Your house will sparkle and be ready to entertain guests during the summer period!
condition and toss the rest. You will feel so much lighter! Clear out expired items from the fridge and the pantry. Most of us are guilty of forgetting to clear out the fridge and pantry; now is the time to throw out expired condiments, give the shelves a good wipe down and organise or group items; there is nothing better than a well organised pantry! High pressure clean your home … Winter can leave your home covered in dirt, debris and mould. Hire the professionals to give your roof, driveway and deck a deep clean. Your house will sparkle and be ready to entertain guests during the summer period!
Clean your windows … When the weather warms up, it’s time to wash your windows! Keep those fingerprints and dirt from showing when the sun shines through by giving them a quick clean inside and out; with a little bit of effort, they will be
gleaming in no time. Prepare your pool … Before Christmas hits and your friends and relatives come over to cool off with afternoon by the pool, ensure it’s ready to go. Make sure the pool is clean, filters are functioning properly and chemicals and pH levels are in balance. Most importantly, don’t forget to update the deflated and sun bleached pool toys; the kids will love you for it! We will all be spending more time at home this summer; ensure your home is ready, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy summer 2020! GREATER PORT MACQUARIE
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Nestled in our ABODE Home section Perfect for cleaners, plumbers, sparkys, lawn and garden maintenance, pest experts and more! W E H AV E A F F O R DA B L E A DV E R T I S I N G R AT E S W I T H O U R N E W LO O K F O R M AT, A N D S T I L L D E LI V E R T H E SA M E G R E AT P OS I T I V E N E WS A N D I N T E RV I E WS YO U ’ V E CO M E TO LOV E . Bookings via your local rep or info@focusmag.com.au
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YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED JUST HOW MANY SERVICES A LOCKSMITH PROVIDES IN A REGIONAL TOWN. GAVIN ROMER TELLS US ABOUT HIS BUSY LIFE.
ROMER
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LOC K S
i Gavin. Tell us a little opening back in 2007? bit about yourself and After finishing my apprenticeship, my wife, your connection to Port Anthea and I moved out to Armidale, and Macquarie. we started our first business out there. My family moved here We loved our time there but once she fell in the '70s, so I’ve been pregnant, we had a huge desire to move here pretty much my whole life - except for back again, so we sold our business and a few good years in Armidale, where my came and started Romer Locks. It started as wife and I started New a little shop in Horton England Locksmiths. St, pretty much a Otherwise, Port has one man show, but Sometimes I been our home for a it’s now grown to think people long time. We love it having four of us and feel like they can here; it has so much to we're looking for a call any hour and offer, and it’s just a great new apprentice now get a dedicated place to raise a family. too - not to mention after hours person, You're a long time needing an extra two but the truth is it’s locksmith of over 25 days in the week. just us working years. How did you Take us through through the day, and end up in the trade? a typical day on The truth is, I had the job and what the night as well. no idea what I wanted services you cover. to do after school and Anything and when my father offered everything involving me an apprenticeship, I decided to do it. keys and locks. We get a mixture of so It’s grown on me over the years, so I think I many different things; there is never a dull might as well stick with it now. Ha ha! I grew moment. I can normally have phone calls up helping out in the family business, so it’s before I get the kids to school and sometimes been a huge part of my life. before I get out of bed, but generally the How has the business grown since day is a mix of repair work, sometimes quite
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urgent - people locked out of their houses, cars or businesses, securing houses, installing or repairing safes, and lots of automotive work - we cut lots of car keys. The day can extend into the night, with lockouts happening any hour - the worst being the midnight ones. Sometimes I think people feel like they can call any hour and get a dedicated after hours person, but the truth is it’s just us working through the day, and the night as well. We live in a small country town, so try and cover all bases; we don’t try to do just one thing - we cover everything. What is something your business provides that people might not know about? People seem to be most unsure about whether we can cut their car key or change the batteries in their car keys, but we sure do - we can do it on the spot. There are not many cars we can’t do now, so we always suggest to call or come in for a quote. Where can we find out more about your shop and business? Our website www.romerlocks.com.au has lots of information, and you can call or email us questions, but we are more than happy to come out onsite for you to discuss your needs also. Thanks Gavin.
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n replacing an existing gas or electric water heater with a Solahart Solar Water Heater of 270 litres and above, an Atmos Heat Pump or Solahart PowerStore®. *60 Call 1300 721 984 or s only. Minimum monthly repayments are required. Paying only the minimum monthly repayment amount will not pay out the purchase within the interest free visit solahart.com.au rest free period for the purchase will be charged interest at the contractual rate, currently 19.9%. A $6 monthly account fee applies. A one-off establishment fee may Unit 9/11 Bellbowrie St lication. See your contract for further details. Credit provided by zipMoney Payments Pty Limited (ABN 58 164 440 993, Australian Credit Licence Number 441878). Port Macquarie pating dealers only, and are not available in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions visit solahart.com.au.
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