Port Macquarie i246

I ue 246 SEPTEMBER 2026

T H E

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W W W. F E AT U R E - WA L L S . C O M . A U

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Welcome to the SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie focus.

here’s something fitting about kicking off spring with an issue built around fresh energy and this month, we’ve got it in spades.

nside this issue we have our ising tars feature. his shines a light on the people quietly reshaping their industries from the ground up, the young managers stepping into leadership earlier than they expected, and the up-and-comers who are proof that talent doesn’t wait for permission. t’s been one of my favourite features to put together, meeting and celebrating the young people of our business and working community. t’s a reminder that the future

of our community across all industuries is in very good hands. he one and only acy ray is our cover star this month. Coming to our very own town to sing her songs is something we couldn’t look past. rammy winner coming to little old Port Macquarie... pretty cool. uge thanks to her and managment team for allowing us some one on one time with her. ead acy’s nterview starting on page . e’ve also rounded up some brilliant local interviews in this issue. Keeping with the Rising Stars theme we interviewed Evie attison who recently won a ational Championship with her ballet. Our Artist of

contacts.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

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

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR & SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES info@focusmag.com.au

the Month is the very talented local Riaan Oliver and we also have a great Spring edding feature for all the brides. l Flower’s n the Front ar’ is with none other than e player at ogers and we also feature Michael Klim, diagnosed with hronic nflammatory emyelinating olyneuropathy, chael has had to confront the gradual loss of his mobility just like -year-old liver avis from ew, who undergoes infusions every three weeks.

Enjoy the start of spring and as always, thank you for picking up F . e hope this issue leaves you as inspired as it left us putting it together. ntil ne t month...

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

omments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the ublishers. ll reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. nformation 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. hile all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. rticles marked as nterview or ontributor’ are non-sponsored content. Focus is published by reative ouse ublications . aterial in Focus is opyright reative ouse ublications and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the ublisher. ll rights reserved. F is printed by ustralian ommunity edia rint ogistics orth ichmond. ur paper is FF and F certified and meets with accreditation.

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over

EST

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I ue 246 - SEPTEMBER 2026

INTERVIEWS

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RICHARD BALL

MICHAEL KLIM

From standard picky eating to full-blown mealtime stress, getting children to eat can be an uphill battle. The PICNIC project is changing that dynamic by swapping rigid dietary rules for practical peer to peer support.

The name Michael Klim instantly conjures up images of raw power slicing through water, gold medals and a fierce competitor standing proudly on the Olympic podium, however now he’s running a different race.

E V I E PAT T I S O N

From local rehearsals in Port Macquarie to standing on top of the national podium, Evie Pattison’s journey to a National Ballet Title is a masterclass in grit, passion, and relentless determination.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 37. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 39. Bryan Hanks - What’s in Season 42. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 73. Dr Kristy - The Beauty of Ageing 78. Ben Cudmore - Men’s Health 79. Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health 103. Ursula Boorman - Need2Know 104. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

DR KRISTY K O S T A L A S

112. Nick Lawton - Legal Light 113. Bec Farnsworth - Money Matters 116. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling

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

Follow us on 12 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

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PortMacquarieFocus

focusmag.com.au

PENNY SUNDAY BOOK LAUNCH.

A DAY FOR MARK. Join us for A

6 11

Day for Mark, a special community fundraiser supporting Mark Spence and his family following Mark's recent stroke. Mark has been a driving force in the Port Macquarie music community for many years.

When Sunday 6 Sept Where The Bowl Port Macquarie.

10

12

SEPTEMBER

FARM GATE TOUR.

NANNA BINGO.

What do you get if you put a gameshow, comedy night, disco and 30 years of nicotine dependency into a blender? ........

NANNA BINGO! Where Port Race Club When Friday 11th Doors 6PM Show 7pm Bar Available I 18+ event

- G R E AT E R P O R T M A C Q UA R I E -

2026

The Hastings Farm Gate Tour is a celebration of quality locally grown produce.

The tour allows locals and visitors alike to tailor a self-drive tour of host properties across the greater region. When September 12th -13th 2026.

More hastingsfarmgate.au

OPEN MIC AT THE VINES.

RESIN ART WORKSHOPS.

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Kill to Love is a dystopian, dark rom-com featuring fated mates with a strong leaning toward enemies-to-lovers. It is also unhinged, hilarious and incredibly spicy. Guests should wear their most outrageous glasses, come dressed in pink, yellow, red and/or black, blinged up a bit. $100 voucher for best dressed as voted

by Penny. When Thursday 10th 5.30pm Where Collins Booksellers PMQ

A storytelling session where you can preserve your most precious memories in a "river of glass." Using our open cut round board, you will get the opportunity to create your own masterpiece. Using vibrant textures and colours, and your own imagination. BOOK resinratz.com/new-south-wales

27

Get ready for an incredible afternoon of live entertainment at Open Mic at the Vines! Our stage will come alive with a fantastic and diverse line-up of entertainers each, bringing something different to the mic.

Where Douglas Vale at the Winehouse.

When Last Sunday of every month from 12:15 pm

coffscoast.com

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 15

Macy

Gray

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More than 25 years after I Try became a global hit, Grammy Award-winning soul icon Macy Gray is still captivating audiences with her unmistakable voice, infectious energy and timeless songs, and she’s bringing her acclaimed live show to The Tacking Point Tavern on Sunday September 20!

i Macy. Australia embraced your music very early in your career, with I Try going straight to number one here! hat o ou r m m r a out thos first experiences of performing for Australian audiences?

I remember it was really far out to me because I had never really been out of the States. When you’re in the States, you only hear about places like Australia. Most people don’t make it out there, so I was kind of just blown away by the fact that I was there, I can’t describe it. It was pretty wild to be there because that was something I never thought of, that one day I would go to Australia, and then all of a sudden I was there.

Your 2024 Australian tour was a huge success, with sold-out shows across the country. What was it about that tour that made you want to come back, and go even further into regional Australia?

I like the fans. Every time I come out there, we have a really good time. We love the cities there. At the shows, it’s just a comfortable place where people really enjoy the music.

When you have that, you have a great audience, so we just like the fans there.

This time you’re bringing the tour to Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. What appeals to you about taking your music beyond the major cities and connecting with regional audiences?

Oh, see, I don’t even know the ones that are small! I’m just going. I’ll play anywhere.

I just like to play, and I’ll always just be really

grateful when I get invited somewhere, because I’ve been doing this a long time. For people to still want to come to the show is a really big deal to me.

right now?

It was actually a real challenge you know.

I’m well into my 50s and so it’s a challenge to find things to talk about because your You’ve sold more than 25 million records life has changed so much. And then, if and enjoyed a career spanning more you do, it’s easy to get like “off brand” or than two decades. maybe confuse people When you look back because they don’t at everything you’ve understand where Once you get achieved, what are you’re coming from. like four or you most proud of?

It was actually more

five albums in, it

Honestly, that I got to challenging than any gets really, really see the world. I just other record I’ve made challenging to think you learn so honestly, because I had keep surprising much and there’s so to figure out what your fans, to keep much to get out of wanted to say at this inspiring them to seeing the world and point in my life. What want to hear your experiencing different else is there to say? music and relate. cultures and different And musically, you perspectives on things, know, we all have different governments, to admit that almost and different ways of cooking, different everything’s been done. All your big genres fashion, you know what I mean? have been established, so if you want to So, I just think that’s probably the biggest thing that I got out of it all, because it made me grow as a person and just to be able to see things a little bit differently than I might have if I had never experienced that. I don’t think I would have seen the world had it not been for my career, for sure. In fact, I know that for a fact, because travel wouldn’t have been something that I thought was as important as I realise it is now.

You’re currently introducing audiences to your new single, I’m Too Sexy, ahead of your upcoming album The Trouble with the Truth. What can you tell us about the new record and where you are creatively

sound fresh or new, you kind of have to find a combination of those things. You kind of have to take from wherever you’re going to take from, and then figure out how to make that sound new. nce you get like four or five albums in, it gets really, really challenging to keep surprising your fans, to keep inspiring them to want to hear your music and relate. So, this being my 12th album – I think it was, I don’t even know, it was the 12th or the 13th yeah, it was really difficult. t’s been about a year trying to figure it out, but think did. think we nailed it.

Continued over...

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It’s very gratifying to see people sing back to you, to know that you’ve touched someone enough where they remember the words and they know the melody.

This tour has been described as a “festival of soul”, with a huge celebration of your biggest hits. What can audiences expect when the lights go down and the show begins?

Uh, it’s just fun. You just get on stage with the goal to make everybody happy for at least an hour and a half, two hours you’re there. Just put a smile on everybody’s face and give you a reason to dance and yell out to play the song, and get on your feet, you know, things you might not do every day. hat’s the goal. ou ust wanna fill people’s hearts up, make them feel something, you know? I have a great band, and so we get to rehearsals and that’s the goal, you know - what can we do on the set that’s gonna take everybody from here to there, and make people scream and holler and dance and have a good time? So that’s what it’ll be.

You have a reputation for putting on an incredibly energetic and fun live show. What do you love most about performing live?

Well, you get on stage, and you can say “say 18 GREATER 18 COFFS COAST PORT focus MACQUARIE focus

After more than 20 years in the spotlight, what keeps you hungry creatively?

I just like it. I like doing it. I think of it like it’s my friend. I can’t explain it. It’s like my buddy. ho!” and everybody does it, so just for that little while, you get to be queen of the world, you know, for a minute.

It’s very gratifying to see people sing back to you, to know that you’ve touched someone enough where they remember the words and they know the melody. They know all your ad-libs and they’re just singing it back to you.

That’s the best.

Remember that song, “sing it back, sing it back to me” ..was that big in Australia?

Moloko it was. Yeah. Anyway, I know what she’s talking about. It’s like a conversation. It’s like a really great conversation between you and your fans. t’s definitely a rush and know a lot of performers get off stage and they can’t sleep for two days because it’s that big. It takes your whole spirit, it takes it all, like it sucked it up. You know what I mean?

I hear people say “Oh, I’m so passionate”, but it’s not that really - passion is so temporary. I think you have to truly like what you do. You have to like the boring part and the bad part. It’s like your friend, you have to be there for it even when it sucks.

I think I’m just very attached to it. Like, I wouldn’t know what else to do with myself all day if I didn’t have this. It’s that constant thing in my life.

Finally, for people in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour who have never seen you perform live before, why should they come along and experience Macy Gray Live?

I just hope they have a really good time. I hope you come along and you just go home happy and bragging about what a good time that you had!

Thanks Macy.

Macy

Gray GREATER PORT COFFS MACQUARIE COAST focus 19 19

PORT MACQUARIE CUP

Lawn Party Brookvale Union

FRIDAY 9th OCTOBER

S CA N H E R E T O S E C U R E YO U R TICKETS 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

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LACHLAN P H O T O G R A P H Y In an age where digital feeds are saturated with fleeting snapshots, finding a creative eye that can genuinely freeze time and evoke a deep sense of place is a rare find. Enter Lachlan Jordan, a young, visionary artistic photographer based out of Wauchope, New South Wales. Drawing inspiration from the rich, diverse landscapes of the Mid North Coast, Lachlan has quickly been carving out a distinct name for himself through a lens that marries raw human emotion with striking visual storytelling.

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perfecting my craft. Eventually I reached a point where I felt my work was good enough to be able to charge people for my art and photography services. aucho an th surroun in r ional an coastal lan sca s off r an incr i l ac ro from lush hint rlan s to iconic surf coastlin s. ow o s th local n ironm nt acti l The idea of sha our artistic making people st l an stor t llin actually stop and a roach

look when usually they wouldn’t pay any a ention. I like to play in the space of documenting something, whilst also trying to create art.

I tend to go through phases on what it is I am chasing. We are fortunate enough to be surrounded by some beautiful and iconic scenery, which I love to capture creating that perfect “postcard” photograph that makes people want to visit. Currently I have a real interest in documenting locations locals may pass every day, but showing them off in a way that perhaps they haven’t seen before.

i achlan. s a cr ati wor in out of th i orth oast what first r w ou hin th l ns an how i ou transition from an initial int r st into launchin our own rof ssional ran I have been taking photos almost as far back as can remember. recall a disposable film camera I used on a family holiday or school excursion. I had a few point and shoot cameras in my teens and early 20s. But it wasn’t until I got my hands on a DSLR at Uni and learnt some fundamentals like ISO, aperture and shutter speed that I started to take photos how I always wanted to take photos.

That’s when the passion really took off. I was gifted my own DSLR camera from my parents and I would practice any chance I got,

The idea of making people actually stop and look when usually they wouldn’t pay any attention. I like to play in the space of documenting something, whilst also trying to create art. our wor s ans r thin from intimat ortraits an cou l s to comm rcial ro cts. ow o ou maintain our istinct artistic oic wh n alancin cli nt ctations with rsonal cr ati r ssion I have been very fortunate that any work I have done on behalf of a client, whether it was a wedding or a commercial project that they have completely trusted me and my process. They knew my work and style and so they just let me do my thing knowing that I stand by my work, and at the end of the day I would strive to create something they will be happy with. ontinu

o

r...

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Lifestyle and portrait photography rely heavily on genuine emotion rather than stiff poses. What is your secret to making people feel completely at ease in front of your camera?

I always met people prior to make sure we gel before hand. find it is a mi of both making sure people are completely comfortable with my presence, whilst also having the ability to sink into the background ready to capture those genuine moments as they play out.

In an era heavily dominated by instant digital content and rapid editing trends, what role does intentionality play when you compose a shot?

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I suppose that all depends on my vision of what I want to capture. There are times I am quite intentional where I have a location and final image in mind, which may re uire patience and planning for the right time of day to get the light I want. But there are other times like to go out with my mm film camera and capture things in the moment that catch my eye.

Those photos might not be as highly polished but they’re real, unique and of the moment, which cannot be replicated by instant digital content.

Every artist faces creative blocks or challenging lighting conditions on a shoot. Can you share a memorable moment where things didn't go to plan, an how ou a a t on th I recall a wedding where the weather was not ideal for any outdoor photography, so I had to rethink the locations for some of the

couples portraits. I found this garage which had this little window and a space between the roof leaking in light and I thought; there’s something here, I can make something of this.

Thankfully the couple trusted my vision and we created this awesome black and white photo. Sometimes you just have to back yourself.

How has your perspective or aesthetic chan sinc ou first start ta in rof ssional oo in s an what l m nts ar ou acti l rim ntin with ri ht now?

Like any creative I feel my work has evolved over time. ifferent influences and interests certainly affect one’s work. My fundamentals have always remained the same, trying to create art from documenting the world as I see it. But also with professional bookings I had to recognise that not everything can be,

or needs to be art.

Sometimes you’re just there to document something and that’s ok. Lately I have been using more mm film, but that’s more for personal projects

If you want something you have to chase it. You can’t be too humble and rely on your work being enough to be noticed. If you want people to know you exist you need to get out there and tell them.

or som on oun am itious an carving out a creative car r awa from th ma or ca ital citi s what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned

so far an wh r do you hope to ta achlan or an Photography next?

If you want something you have to chase it. You can’t be too humble and rely on your work being enough to be noticed. If you want people to know you exist you need to get out there and tell them.

One thing I would love to do is create a photo book. Having your work printed beats looking at it on a screen any day. han s achlan. nt r i w

arah a

r.

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Luminosity Youth Summit 2026

Images courtesy of Lindsay Moller

#limitless

Luminosity Youth Inc. is both delighted and grateful to have the support of the following sponsors and scholarship providers. We are truly humbled by the level of local support the Summit has received and acknowledge that it would not have been made possible without their generosity and support.

123tix All Hours Glass Atlantis Creative Better Business Taree Blueprint Life Coaching Branch Productions Business NSW Business Port Macquarie Camden Haven High School Charles Sturt University Charles Sturt University First Nations Chatham High School CharBar Catering Cloud Concepts Coastline Bank Complete Risk Solutions CowanCreative Department of Employment & Workplace Relations D-Scapes Landscaping DYMK Dyslexia Mid North Coast Explore Barrington Coast Find Ya Feet Focus Port Macquarie GEM Socials Glasshouse Port Macquarie Gloucester High School Hallidays Lions Club Hastings Business Women’s Network Hastings Rotaract Hastings Secondary College Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus headspace Port Macquarie Intersport Port Macquarie Ink Lens Media Innovate Event Solutions Johnson & Mongan Accountants

Julia Livingston Kempsey Adventist School Kempsey High School Kempsey-Macleay Country University Centre Kenny Little’s Fruit & Veg Legacy Port Macquarie Lemonade Crew Let’s Get Lit Lifestyle Group Linked Community Services Lindsay Moller Productions Macleay Options Inc Macleay Valley Country Universities Centre Mackie Electric & Refrigeration Mackillop College Port Macquarie Macquarie Signs and Tinting Magnified Manning Great Lakes Memorial Gardens Manning River Lions Club McNeil Architects Melville High School Men and Women at Work MidCoast Council Mid North Coast Local Health District Mid North Coast Uniform Solutions Mission Australia Nautilus College Neucombe Coach Lines Page Conveyancing Petries Mitre 10 - Taree + Port Macquarie Port City Bowling Club Port Combined Netball Club Port Macquarie Eats Port Macquarie Hastings Council Port Macquarie SRC (Charles Sturt University)

PoseIt Photobooths QualOT Hand Therapy Regional Australia Bank Rotary Club of Kempsey Rotary Club of Lower Midcoast Rotary Clubs of Port Macquarie Rotary Club of Sunrise Port Macquarie Rotary Club of Taree Rotary Club of Taree on Manning Rotary Club of Wingham Rydges Port Macquarie Self Seen Snap Port Macquarie St Agnes Catholic Parish St Columba Anglican School St Joseph’s Regional College Steve & Jack Foye Stihl Shop Sunrise Interact Rotary TAFE NSW Taree High School Taree Lions Club Taree Quota Club Telstra NSW The Nature School The Resolution Network Tradelink Forster Tradie Leader Lady Trish & Eddie Wood Tutor Teach Uncle Bill O’Brien OAM University of Newcastle Upbound UNSW Rural Clinical School Vanity Day Spa Wauchope High School Wingham High School Wild Things Native Gardens Zebu Bar + Grill Zonta

luminosityyouthsummit.com.au

ARTISTS of the MONTH

Riaan Oliver

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Nestled on the Mid North Coast in Port Macquarie, Riaan trades city rush for coastal inspiration, cra ing bespoke, heirloom-quality furniture tailored to how families actually live. The business name, playfully coined by his wife, captures both the raw, natural character of the timber he works with and his lifelong love for the ocean.

From hand-selecting local slabs at regional mills to seeing a client’s long-held design dream come to life, Riaan treats every piece as a collaborative journey. We sat down with Riaan to chat about coastal living, honouring raw timber imperfections, and why the move towards “buying once and buying well” is reshaping modern homes.

R

iaan, what inspired you to step into custom woodworking, and what is the story behind the name Gnarly Knots?

What drew me to custom woodworking was the mix of creativity, practicality and connecting with people.

I love taking an idea someone has and turning it into something useful, beautiful and completely personal to their home.

There’s also something special about working with solid timber because no two pieces are ever the same. The grain, knots and natural imperfections make each piece unique, just like us.

I can’t take the credit for the name Gnarly Knots though, that belongs to my beautiful wife. She knows me better than anyone and somehow came up with a name that captures so much of who I am. “Gnarly” re ects the natural character of timber, the knots, grain and imperfections, but it also connects to my love of the ocean, surfing and bodyboarding, where a gnarly wave is something pretty special.

How did you end up making Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast your home base, and how does the coastal lif st l in u nc our si n st l We spent many years visiting Port

Macquarie and always loved it. As our kids got older, we knew it was time to move out of the city. We love the outdoors, the ocean and the community here.

Walk us through the journey from the initial workshop consultation to delivering the completed build into a client’s home.

That coastal lifestyle in uences my designs too. I’m drawn to natural materials, relaxed spaces and timeless lines, while still enjoying intricate pieces.

Working with solid timber means embracing natural character. What timber species do ou fin ours lf drawn to most, and how do you source your materials locally?

It starts with a conversation. A client might have a photo, a rough idea or simply a space they want to improve. We talk through how they’ll use it, storage, style, timber and finish. I then develop the design, often with Every piece a 3D mock-up. Once of timber has approved, I build and its own personality: finish the piece, then the smell, density, deliver and install it if feel, colour, grain required. and how it responds

to tools. I enjoy Blackbu , Camphor Laurel, Tassie Oak, but I’m o en more drawn to the individual piece than the species.

Every piece of timber has its own personality: the smell, density, feel, colour, grain and how it responds to tools. I enjoy Blackbutt, Camphor Laurel, Tassie Oak, but I’m often more drawn to the individual piece than the species.

Where possible, I source through local and regional mills and choose the slabs myself.

I also love using timber from local trees that need removing, giving them new life.

Natural grain, knots, and live edges present unique structural challenges.

How do you honour a board’s raw imperfections while nsurin th finish piece holds up to daily life?

For me, it starts at the mill. Choosing the right timber is one of the most important parts. I look at the grain, knots, cracks and movement in the slab and how they’ll work with the design.

The goal isn’t to remove the character, but to understand what can be celebrated and what needs stabilising. I try to work with what the tree has given me.

Continued over...

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You emphasise building furniture tailored to how people actually live. How do you help a client translate a vague idea or room layout into a practical, beautiful design?

Most clients don’t arrive with a fully resolved design, and they don’t need to.

I ask how they use the room, what they need to store and what styles they like. e solve the practical problem first, then refine the details until it feels right for their home.

In a world dominated by mass-produced, at-pack items, what do you think drives local clients to step away from “fast furniture” and invest in custom, solid timber pieces built to last?

I think people are becoming more conscious of buying once and buying well.

With custom furniture, the client becomes part of the process. They can help select their own slab, see it taking shape through progress photos and videos, and be involved every step of the way.

By the time it arrives in their home, they haven’t just bought furniture, they’ve helped create something personal, made for their space and built to last.

From selecting the raw slab in the timber ar to a l in that r final coat 30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

of oil, which s cific art of the physical build process brings you the most personal satisfaction?

With custom furniture, the client becomes part of the process.

They can help select their own slab, see it taking shape through progress photos and videos, and be involved every step of the way.

The number one moment for me is delivering the finished piece and seeing it in the client’s home. You’ve taken something they imagined and made it real, and seeing their reaction is incredibly rewarding.

During the build, there’s something special about that first coat of hardwax oil. After all the milling, shaping and sanding, the timber suddenly comes to life.

Solid timber naturally reacts to humidity and changing seasons. What is your top piece of advice for homeowners on properly caring for custom woodwork so it stays pristine for generations?

a family heirloom. Is there a standout piece you’ve created that holds a special place in your heart?

There’s one dining table that really stands out. The client had dreamed of owning a large liveedge table since seeing one as a child.

She and her family had just bought a new home and wanted it to be the focal point.

I really feel like I nailed that one. Knowing she finally had the table she’d imagined for years was incredibly rewarding.

Sometimes you’re not just making furniture; you’re helping bring a long-held dream to life.

For our readers who would like to get in touch with you, how can they do that?

eep it simple. Avoid harsh cleaners, wipe up spills quickly, use coasters or trivets for hot or wet items and avoid prolonged strong sunlight. Most importantly, remember timber is a natural material, and small changes over time are normal.

The easiest place to start is gnarlyknots. au, where you can see some of my recent work. You can also follow along on Instagram @gnarlyknots.au for current projects and life in the workshop. If you’d prefer a chat, give me a buzz on 0430 747 620.

Custom timber furniture often becomes

Thanks Riaan.

ARTISTS of the MONTH

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 31

Ball

Dr iard THE PICNIC PROJECT

From standard picky eating to fullblown mealtime stress, ge ing young children to eat can feel like an uphill ba le. The PICNIC Project is changing that dynamic by swapping rigid dietary rules for practical, peer-to-peer support that meets families right where they are.

F

or readers who may be hearing about PICNIC for the first tim can ou lain what th ro ram is an th ro l m it was si n to address?

PICNIC is a feeding support program for parents and carers of children aged 0 to 6 years. It supports families from babies starting solids through the years when fussy eating naturally increases. t fills a missing piece in feeding support as parents are often told what foods to offer but rarely shown how to feed and navigate children’s up and down intake, increasing food rejection through toddlerhood in a way that helps parents’ confidence, reduces stress, helps increase children’s diet variety and manage appetite.

PICNIC helps parents understand their own role and their child’s role, creating calm, positive mealtimes and giving parents the confidence to support their child through each stage. Children can’t be expected to meet the dietary guidelines without our understanding of the stages of learning to eat and accepting new foods which are important because children’s eating patterns are mostly established before five, so this early support is really important.

Parents choose the amount of PICNIC support they want, using program strategies to suit their needs. Some parents need initial feeding 32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

support and then feel confident putting it into practice, while others may need ongoing support as they work through their feeding journey. PICNIC offers feeding workshops, dietitian group catchups, online parent support chatroom, a dedicated program website and social media channels where parents can revisit key messages or share them with others.

PICNIC started in 2018 and has supported over 1500 families.

We’ve expanded into four more NSW Health Districts with more coming on board. We have program variations for Aboriginal communities, Supported Playgroups and our PICNIC in Early Education program is now in five other Local Health Districts.

of family and friends, but information can be unclear and inconsistent. Sharing within groups helps parents get support and information when they need it, in everyday language. arents see firsthand feeding in action which is far more effective than receiving a handout. Some parents will share feeding information with friends and family, others may focus on their own needs or pass on program details for other PICNIC parents to join. Peer helps parents education takes PICNIC’s understand their reach far beyond the own role and their families we directly child’s role, creating work with, making it calm, positive cost effective and a mealtimes and great investment for the giving parents the health system.

confidence to support their child through each stage.

h ro ram is uilt aroun th i a that ar nts ar ow rful a nts of chan within th ir famili s an communiti s. h was it im ortant to ta a r to r a roach rath r than a mor tra itional h alth ucation mo l We used a peer education approach as parents talk about feeding within their social groups

PICNIC has now an across multi l h alth istricts with int rnational int r st m r in in lac s such as ala sia. hat has it n li watchin a locall lo ro ram ain traction on a lo al sta

I’ve been genuinely blown away by the response to PICNIC and the level of interest from organisations and areas wanting to run

the program. I would never have imagined we’d be where we are today when I started testing program concepts in 2013 before launching PICNIC in 2018. The growth of PICNIC is an incredible outcome and something the Mid North Coast Local Health District can be proud of, considering it originated here regionally.

The main challenge now is keeping up with the program’s growth and the continued opportunities it presents.

struggle to reach families in ways that feel practical and relatable.

Why do you think PICNIC has resonated so strongly with parents

PICNIC has been successful because we’ve stayed true to ‘parent co-design’ and kept our focus on the support parents want. Parents have shaped delivery, support, tone and content, so it’s realistic and doable rather than unachievable or overwhelming. PICNIC was You've recently been involved in designed to understand supporting feeding pressures implementation and the messy reality efforts in Cambodia, We’ve supported of children learning with upcoming work families needing to eat. Parents learn in Laos and Sweden. more intensive clinical that feeding doesn’t What has surprised care, and parents have to be perfect and you most about o en say they’re expecting perfection can how the program grateful because create more pressure translates across PICNIC complements and stress. Our ‘meet different cultures and the work of their parents where they are’ communities? other health approach ensures PICNIC PICNIC has been much professionals. fits into the busy lives of more suitable for other families by using familiar countries and cultures platforms like Facebook than we expected. and Instagram to keep We’ve found that the challenges Australian support easy to access. parents face are universal, with parents in Cambodia, Laos, Sweden and Malaysia all describing feeding as difficult and often one of the most stressful parts of parenting. Where food insecurity is an issue, it can result in more pressure at mealtimes and fewer foods offered. t’s a real challenge for to influence feeding in these situations, but it’s something we can influence and make meaningful change.

Health promotion can sometimes

What are some of the outcomes or success stories that make you particularly proud wh n ou r ct on th im act has had so far?

It’s really hard to single out individual stories as we’ve had so much incredible feedback over the years. Parents tell us how much PICNIC has helped and how grateful they are that feeding now feels easier and more manageable. We

hear stories of improved variety and quality of children’s eating, and on parents’ wellbeing and confidence at mealtimes. For a lot of families mealtimes have become more enjoyable, relaxed and even fewer tears. Parents with older children often say they wish they’d done PICNIC for their older child and those who joined years ago tell us their children now eat a wide range of foods because of PICNIC. We’ve supported families needing more intensive clinical care, and parents often say they’re grateful because PICNIC complements the work of their other health professionals. PICNIC parents tell us how they’ve supported other parents and how rewarding it’s been. All this feedback is what motivates us and keeps the PICNIC team’s passion for this work so strong. I’ve been a dietitian for 23 years and to be working on a program that truly helps parents is amazing. h r can ar nts fin out mor or involved

t

Parents can visit our website, click ‘Join PICNIC’ tab and choose either an online or local face to face workshop. Parent groups can request their own workshop and we’ll deliver it somewhere which suits the group. It’s open to anyone caring for a child with grandparents and other family members attending previously. Parents can choose to follow our social media pages or view our website to access information before joining the program.

• Feeding toddlers and young children – support for parents - Picnic Project, • Facebook & Instagram Thanks Dr Richard GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 33

Local author Jacqueline Winn releases her latest award-winning short stories collection ‘Small.’

Jacqueline Winn is an awardwinning author, editor and workshop presenter. With more than 100 awards for short story writing, Jacqui’s work has been recognised internationally across Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

JACQUELINE

J

WINN

acqui is the author of three collections of award-winning short stories: "Small", "Once More With Feeling" and "Salt & Pepper", with her most recent anthology "Small" and selected stories also available through Kindle/Amazon.

Hi Jacqui. Your writing captures so much heart, humour, and the unexpected nuances of everyday life, how does living and writing on the Mid North Coast in u nc our cr ati oic an o local landscapes or communities ever sneak into your stories?

The Mid North Coast is an awesome place to live, but I think I could probably write stories wherever I lived. I’m very much inside my head when I write, and the lovely view from my

34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

window can sometimes be more distraction than inspiration.

Certainly, landscapes sneak into my stories, partly because surroundings strongly influence how we live, and partly because the landscape raises strong metaphors that illustrate human behaviours. ur first people have long known this, and I think we urban dwellers have a lot to learn by getting outside and absorbing the land. The title story of my book “Small” is heavy with landscape that creates depth and tension for the woman at the heart of the story.

As for communities, a person alone can have a story, but a person living beside others is thrown into situations they might not have otherwise encountered. I enjoy writing stories in which characters push the boundaries for

other characters.

As an award-winning author celebrated for your short story collections, what draws you to the short format? How do you approach the challenge of building an entire emotional world and resonant character arc in minimal pages?

Short story is certainly the form that has been most successful for me, but I’ve also written novels, as well as scripts for stage and film, and poems. Two of my unpublished novels have been longlisted in awards in the UK, and I’ve had a number of my scripts performed on stage and short film. ust like words, any words, and any form of writing.

When I start a piece of writing, I don’t always know whether it will end up as a short story or a novel. A story will be the length it needs to be for the telling of the story. It could be 100,000 words, or 1,000 words. Though, the short form is usually more challenging. The main character must be quickly drawn and the conflict immediately raised. epth of language, brevity and clarity are the main tools I use to achieve a compelling short story for the reader.

Every writer has their own unique rituals.

What does a typical writing day look like

for you, and where on the Mid North oast o ou fin ours lf most ins ir to ut n to a r I don’t have a typical writing day. Family and farm take first place for me. hough, when ’m working on a story, long or short, everything gets pushed aside and ust bog down at my little table, and type furiously. might write every day for a month, or might go for a few months without writing anything more substantial than the occasional snippet on a scrap of paper, something to come back to when I have time. ’m always mulling over characters and ideas in my head, noting down interesting sentences or phrases that gradually build, until have to go to my keyboard and push through to a finished story. nfortunately, many of my ideas arrive while ’m driving. o, if you see me pulled over to the side of the road, it’s most likely because ’m desperately trying to capture a few paragraphs of a newly hatching story. n my phone, or on envelopes, or even the occasional tissue, whatever can grab to get the words down.

Unfortunately, many of my ideas arrive while I’m driving. So, if you see me pulled over to the side of the road, it’s most likely because I’m desperately trying to capture a few paragraphs of a newly hatching story.

our lat st coll ction i s into th r lata l chall n s humour an warmth of human ri nc . h r o ou t icall fin th s ar for our charact rs verywhere eople are endlessly interesting. ’m drawn to characters that others might regard as ordinary, but every person is e traordinary on the inside. he spark for a story might come from an overheard phrase, or a gesture, or a situation that raises uestions for me. pen eyes and listening ears are two of the most valuable occupations for any writer. lso, a sense of empathy helps when creating a character in a story, in order to deal fairly with the character, to give them

an authentic voice as the story is told. aving said that, don’t write about anyone know. Friends and family are never at risk of being included in any of my stories. ou n sharin our wor ir ctl with r a rs throu h local author tal s an li rar nts. hat has n th most r war in art of n a in fac to fac with our communit a out this n w r l as talk a little about myself, and a lot about the writing process. veryone can write, everyone has something worth saying, so encourage people to consider their own stories. t the same time, hope to give some insight into

how stories work for readers. hen people tell me they’ve gained some new understanding about writing, reading and stories, that’s the payoff for me. or oth r as irin writ rs in r ional ar as who r am of s in th ir own stori s u lish or shar what is th st i c of cr ati a ic ou wish ou ha r c i wh n ou first start out on’t doubt yourself, write what you want to write. ewrite until it’s the best that story can be, then send it out everywhere until it lands a reader or two or more. ou can contact me on my email address at baconderry gmail. com. han s ac ui. Interview: Sarah Baker.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 35

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COVER DISH - Rack of Lamb with mash Port City Bowling Club 36 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

focus_contributor.

TO SHARE… OR NOT?

T

here are two types of people in this world. Those that like to share food and those who don’t.

That’s it…plain and simple.

No middle ground – just black and white, no shades of grey.

Some food just begs to be eaten ‘family style’.

For example, why indeed is there a ‘lazy susan’ (by the way where did that name come from?) at every local Chinese restaurant. Indeed I cannot think of an Asian cuisine not made for sharing – Thai, Indian, Korean BBQ, except for those little plates off the sushi train…

comes with a hidden hiccup or two….Sharing food, although mostly liberating, comes with its own particular etiquette. Turns out, although you’re starving, you can’t just bog in with great gusto in the manner that you could if the plate in front of you was solely your own.

Firstly you have to offer the plate closest to you to everyone else first before you get a go.

That steaming hot bowl of deliciousness right next to your nose appears to be so close, but yet it is so far!

It’s like when you are ravenous and exclaim to your waitperson upon ordering “wow, everything looks great – I just wish I could order it all!”. Turns out you can!

Then there’s the control that needs to be executed when obtaining your portion.

Although us sharers genuinely love sharing, we do each secretly covet a particular dish within any given selection. Whether it’s an old favourite, or the potluck winner of the night there’s always a standout - and when you find it you just want to shovel it onto your plate.

But you have to perform an elaborate mental mathematical calculation in order to divide the remainder amongst those who haven’t had a go yet, and in order to ensure your calculation is accurate, you always have to err on the side of caution and wind up with a mere couple of teaspoons worth on your plate

But of course every seemingly idyllic situation

Finally there is the compulsory theatrics

Naturally, the bigger the group of diners, the better the experience will be - especially if all of the participants are as adventurous in ordering as you are!

Call it hitting the dining jackpot – where you have the freedom to choose a substantial selection from an appealing menu when you’re hungry and in like-minded company.

Palate with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

surrounding the last scrapings remaining on the plate – we have all been there – “ No you have the last bit “ No, it’s yours!” “Well maybe so-and-so would like it” etc etc.

So sure, there are drawbacks when it comes to sharing. Could it be better to order your own and defend every bite with iron clad will?

Sounds like a lot of hard work, but such is the rich tapestry of human nature.…

When it comes down to it, some of us just aren’t sharers – as in never being remotely curious what’s on someone else’s plate. And not even allowing their nearest and dearest the tiniest of morsels from their plate.

This has almost been a deal-breaker on many a marriage, I am sure! As is the other half who always decides they like your dish better than theirs and proceeds to hoover yours up whilst relegating you to pick away at their poor choice…been there, done that! omehow we find a way to make it work – sharers and non-sharers alike. We are all different. And that is what makes us interesting! Such is the intricate dance of human interaction and just another part of the reason why restaurants are such fascinating places…

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 37

38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

focus_contributor.

Fowing e

Sunshine

S

eptember is one of my favourite times of the year in the fruit and vegetable industry. inter is finally behind us, the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up and without noticing it, the produce on our shelves begins to change.

The most interesting thing about fresh produce is that the seasons don’t simply change what we sell, they change where it comes from. ustralia is a massive country with an enormous range of climates. t can be 30 degrees in Far North Queensland while parts of ictoria are barely getting into double figures. For the fresh produce industry, that difference is incredibly important.

n many ways, ustralia’s fruit and vegetable supply follows the sunshine. uring the colder months, a huge amount of our produce comes from Queensland and other warmer northern regions. hile southern ustralia is dealing with cold mornings, frost and short days, growers further north are en oying conditions that allow them to keep producing. laces such as undaberg, the ockyer alley, owen and the therton ablelands are important growing regions and depending on the time of year, can supply everything from tomatoes, capsicums and ucchinis to strawberries, beans, corn, avocados and plenty more. ut eptember marks the beginning of a change. s the days get longer and temperatures begin climbing across , ictoria and outh ustralia, growing conditions improve

t i

Season with BRYAN H A N K S

OWNER - GROWERS MARKET

further south. rops that have struggled through winter suddenly start growing faster, begin producing, and gradually the supply of ustralian fruit and vegetables starts moving south. For a while we can actually have the same product arriving from several completely different growing regions. One week we might buy something predominantly from Queensland, and a few weeks later the best uality may be from . ater in the season, that same product could be coming from ictoria. his constant movement is something customers rarely get to see.

When several growing regions overlap and there is plenty available, that’s when customers see some fantastic value. hen one region finishes before another is ready to begin, supply can tighten and prices can rise ust as uickly. eptember in particular is when we’re right in the middle of that transition. ueensland is still supplying us with plenty of fantastic produce, but we’re starting to see more coming from closer to home. growing regions become increasingly important, and as we move towards summer, production continues pushing further south.

When you walk into Growers Market and pick up a capsicum, tomato or punnet of strawberries, naturally you’re mostly interested in whether it looks good and what it costs. ehind that however, there is a constantly moving network of growers, markets, transport and changing weather conditions and the weather is always the wildcard. oo much rain in one region can suddenly reduce supply. frost can damage a crop. treme heat can bring a season forward or finish it early. nother growing region might come online with a good crop, and suddenly supply improves again. hat’s why fresh produce prices can change so uickly. nlike something manufactured in a factory, we can’t simply tell a farm to produce another tonnes of broccoli ne t week. he crop has to be planted months beforehand, and from that point Mother Nature has a pretty big say in what happens.

t the same time, the feel of the fruit shop changes. he winter staples are still around, but strawberries are becoming more plentiful, spring vegetables are arriving and we’re beginning to look ahead to the produce associated with warmer weather. hen comes the stonefruit - peaches, nectarines, cherries, grapes and all the other fantastic fruit that makes an ustralian summer what it is. e can plan, forecast and look at what happened last year, but ultimately fresh produce follows the seasons. ur ob at Growers Market is to follow those seasons and find where the best produce is growing. e t time you’re walking through the shop and notice that something has suddenly become cheaper, bigger, sweeter or simply better than it was a few weeks earlier, somewhere in ustralia, the weather has changed and the harvest has moved again and is simply following the sunshine!

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 39

40 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Hosting a function?

PA N T H E R S P O R T M A C Q U A R I E

Fresh Flavours & Footy Fever This September Spring has arrived, bringing fresh flavours, Father’s ay celebrations and finals footy to anthers ort ac uarie. n all-new menu is coming to ove itchen, with a delicious line-up of tried and tested dishes arriving ust in time for Father’s ay weekend. t’s the perfect e cuse to gather the family and discover a new favourite overlooking the astings iver. n unday th eptember, make a day of celebrating ad with lunch and dinner specials at ove itchen and he , schooners for members from pm to pm, live music from att arb, and Father’s ay

raffles with plenty of pri es. hen settle in for igers v anthers live and loud from pm. nd the footy action doesn’t stop there eptember means Finals fever, with every finals game shown live and loud on the big screens at anthers. ew flavours, live entertainment and plenty of footy. ather your family and mates and en oy eptember at anthers ort ac uarie. ead to our website for more information and to keep up to date with everything happening at the club.

ENJOY FATHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS AND FINALS FOOTY AT PA N T H E R S P O R T M A C Q U A R I E

From birthdays to corporate and everything in between, Flower Hotels has got you covered.

Scan to find out more or head to

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 41

focus_contributor.

MAT ROGERS

M

at, let’s start at the beginning. You grew up around rugby league with your dad, the late Steve Rogers, being such a big part of the game.

What was it like growing up in a rugby league family, and where did your own love of the game begin?

Watching Dad and growing up in that environment makes it tough to escape. My love for it came prior to playing. It was seeing how Dad was treated and respected, and as a young boy seeing that, it can be quite intoxicating.

I wanted all of that, but didn’t realise it took plenty of hard work and pain to get there in the beginning, but once I started playing it was the best! Being able to have conversations with Dad and my older brother about footy made me feel like I belonged.

You eventually joined your dad’s old club, th ronulla har s an ma our first grade debut in 1995. Do you remember much a out that first am an what it was like following in your dad’s footsteps? remember my first trial match in first grade, don’t remember my first official game but remember a lot of moments. I loved being at Cronulla though, it came with a fair amount of pressure being Steve Rogers’ son but I really thrived on that and used it as fuel. It was never anything that bothered me.

42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

BaR

with ALISTAIR F L O W E R MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

You went on to represent Queensland and Australia in rugby league before making the huge decision to switch codes and play rugby union. What prompted you to make that move?

You’re heading our way in September for the Lake Cathie Tavern and Lake Cathie Raiders Sports Lunch, alongside another rugby league character, Greg Bird, what can people expect from the day?

There’s a long and a short answer to this, I’ll save A lot of laughs and fun, I’ve known Greg for the long one for Lake Cathie Tavern, but I grew many years, he’s a great character and story up playing union more teller and I might have a than I did league. I didn’t few yarns up my sleeve play league as a teenager too. Coming together in I didn’t play league so a lot of my union regional areas is a real as a teenager so a mates were playing for passion of mine. I feel lot of my union mates the Wallabies at the like it’s food for the soul were playing for the time and I was always getting out of the city. I Wallabies at the time intrigued to see if I could do quite a bit of it and and I was always cut it with them. really enjoy meeting new intrigued to see if I could You then went on to people and sharing a cut it with them. play 45 tests for the laugh.

Wallabies. Looking You’ve spent your back, what do you career playing at the highest level and now think the experience of playing both codes spend a lot of time talking to people about taught you about yourself and about sport, business and life. What’s one lesson professional sport? from your playing days that you still carry It certainly made me feel alive, when you change with you today? things up so drastically it narrows your focus and Be coachable, so many people think they have dials you in. That’s where I felt I was at my best it figured out. will never be that person, will and I think it’s the same for most people. I feel always seek out someone bigger better and like I had three distinct careers in one, I couldn’t smarter than me regardless of my position. It have done any of them for 17 years straight, it never failed me before and I don’t think it will in would’ve driven me insane. The fact there was the future. significant change re oned my focus each time and brought me back to the beginning again.

Thanks Mat.

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Whomping bass lines, spi ing fire flows, and a soaring brass section

SuB-TrIbE is bringing their electrifying live show to Finnians Port Macquarie.

H

ey guys, can you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a bit about your group and how you all came together?

I’m Tom Fisher, SUB-TRIBE’s Trombonist, but the boys call me Tom Bone (on the trombone).

I’m one of the newer additions having been here about 6 or 7 years now. SUB-TRIBE started in 2016 with the brothers TommyJohn Herbert (Production/Guitars/Vocals) and Jevon Tawhai (Keys/Vocals) after they moved from Wellington to Sydney. Jevon already had some pedigree in Wollongong with his band ‘ALOTTA PRESHA that fronted some huge shows in that area and forged many of the connections SUB-TRIBE used to establish themselves.

They wanted a ‘frontman’ for their new act and they happened to catch Ray singing

44 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

at a festival (maybe Bellingen Folk Fest?) and they knew they had their man. They got to making tracks, bonding over their shared heritage and their new lives in Australia, and started gigging as an electro-dub trio.

The core productions usually start with Tommy-John pulling a rhythm track together. While reggae is at the core of the sound, Tommy has a lush soul angle to his songwriting.

The trio shared a stage at some point with LYRE BYRDLAND, an afrobeat 10-piece from Wollongong run by Dave Reglar (Saxophone). The core trio knew they wanted a brass section to elevate the Tribe, so from Lyre Byrdland they linked up with Dave, Will Endicott (trumpet) and Tim Coggins (trombone). After Tim moved overseas Nick Polovineo stepped in on trombone. Eventually, Nick’s touring schedule with his other band

LIME CORDIALE got too busy and he had to dip out as well. That’s when Rayjah said “I know a guy” and called me into it. Ray and I used to both freelance on reggae and dub stuff in the Bondi scene in the 2000’s and 2010’s, and had a more trad reggae band called THIS VERSION for a

while.

Around the time I joined, we also started playing with live drummers, first with ulian Bel-Bachir, a renowned world-music artist in his own right, sometimes with Declan Kelly, another incredible soul musician and producer with his own trio and sometimes Carlos Adura, who has since become the mainstay for SUB-TRIBE.

While the 7-piece has been the standard lineup for the past few years, we’ve also started doing occasional gigs with a live bassist Tim Sampson (who was also part of Lyre Byrdland) and Jim Wilson who’s been a big part of the back-end production recently and sometimes joins us on stage as what I call a “stunt guitarist”. Once in the tribe, always in the tribe seems to be the vibe, and I think there’ll be more growth down the line. sa i c outfit l n in r a u l ctronic ass an a how o s n iff r nt musicians fin harmon urin th writin roc ss The core productions usually start with TommyJohn pulling a rhythm track together. While reggae is at the core of the sound, Tommy has a lush soul angle to his songwriting. Rayjah is what I call a “Vibe Beast”. A good riddim will F trigger a hearty ay ah flow and the songs go from there. Jevon brings more of the tribal elements and a sense of spirituality to the tunes, and contributes vision to the mixes.

Carlos just FEELS the music and I don’t think anyone has ever been averse to his first idea for a beat.

Dave on the Saxophone is the real jazz man of the group, with a deep knowledge of jazz theory and he’s always searching for the right harmonies and ways to expand melodies to new places. Will brings a kind of studious thoughtfulness to the song structures, and me… well… I’m the wild card, kind of an agent of chaos that came up in the world of punk and ska. ll us a out th what ins ir this o of wor an how o s it ush our soun into n w t rritor MANA brings things back to the core trio’s Maori roots, and there’s traditional Te Reo Maori (the Maori language) in the lyrics. The songs talk about the spirit and history of the Maori people, the core energy that started the band and what it means to maintain a Maori identity having lived half their lives in Australia. e aka speaks of the first pilgrimage of Polynesian peoples to the shores of Aotearoa (New Zealand), the chorus literally listing the

names of the Waka (canoes) that brought the first aori people across the sea. For the Land” speaks to a connection with the environment, and how humanity as a whole needs to return to those roots. The upcoming single “Mana Maori” is for those Maori living away from the homeland and what it means to maintain their cultural identity. Lyrically, it’s a heartfelt examination from Rayjah of where he came from, where he is now, and where he’s going. Musically, it’s taking input from all of our musical experiences including reggae, dub and bass culture. SUB-TRIBE has historically been a pretty downbeat style, but we’re speeding things up a bit now with more house and jungle type beats. ou r ta in th sta at innian s a rn this t m r what can th local crow ct from th li s t Hearty Mana! There’s a true sense of camaraderie in this group and I think it shines on stage. ay ah spits mean flows, sings like an angel, and absolutely rocks a stage with his moves and me and the boys in the brass section can’t contain ourselves either! The whole thing is driven by top-tier electronic production which brings absolutely WHOMPING bass surrounded by strong, genuine musical performances and honest, heartfelt vocals. You’d be mad to miss it.

rossin th itch from w alan to tour r ional ustralia is a i ffort what ar our non n otia l roa tri ss ntials or r show rituals While the core trio are ORIGINALLY from New Zealand, the project itself is really a Sydneybased operation. Sadly though, Sydney is one of our least-played areas and we’re very much at home in beach towns and at bush doofs.

One key ritual though, is before every show we huddle up and chant a Karakia (prayer.)

The actual words of it are mostly asking for favourable wind conditions, but the SOUL of it is about unifying our mindsets for a strong performance. h n ou hit coastal towns li ort ac uari what ar ou most cit to ch c out wh n ou r off th cloc We’ve got a few surfers in the band, so hitting the beaches is always on the cards, schedule willing. ay’s been bitten by the golfing bug lately too so he often dips out early to hit the links when he can. Personally, I heard about a new food truck at THE BREW BOX I can’t wait to check out, and honestly just meeting the locals up there. I don’t know if SUB-TRIBE has ever actually stopped at Port Mac before so it’ll be great to make some new friends. han s so much u s all th th tour.

st with

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FBLOUELGKRA& SS D O R R I G O

Festiv

For more than two decades, the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival has brought musicians, families and music lovers together in the beautiful Dorrigo Plateau for a weekend of connection, creativity and incredible live music. Returning with an exciting line-up of Australian, international and trans-Tasman artists, this much-loved festival promises concerts, workshops, dancing and plenty of opportunities to get involved.

W

hat is it that makes the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival such a special event on the Australian music calendar?

In today’s world, any music festival that creates an inspiring atmosphere for its patrons is special. Every festival has its own individuality, and for Dorrigo, I think it’s the genres we focus on, how we present them and the opportunities we create for people to participate. We want people to feel like they are genuinely an integral part of the weekend.

What can festivalgoers look forward to at this year’s festival?

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Hopefully a weekend of great weather and even better music!

We’ll have a programme packed with concerts and workshops, along with a beautiful kids’ programme featuring performances and a workshop from Shake Shake Puppet Theatre.

There will also be three main bush dances for everyone to enjoy, a festival choir led this year by The Haystack Mountain Hermits for a completely new slant, our popular beginners Bluegrass group and plenty of wonderful festival atmosphere to soak up.

Are there any standout artists or performances you’re particularly excited to showcase?

We’re delighted to continue bringing

international musicians to Dorrigo who bring incredible substance to the bluegrass, old-time and folk genres.

Seth Mulder & Midnight Run from East ennessee redefine modern bluegrass with a high-energy performance that remains firmly rooted in tradition. Martha Spencer Duo and Eli West are festival favourites and incredible instrumentalists and songwriters. From across the Tasman, we’re also welcoming You, Me, Everybody and Jenny Mitchell.

Of course, we consider all our artists standout performers! Head to our website to explore the full line-up.

The festival has built a loyal following over the years. What keeps people coming back?

The festival gives our small community an opportunity to strengthen, create and connect through music and the arts, while also having a significant impact on local economic activity.

It provides many opportunities for local residents to become involved. This year we’re working with the local Hand Made in Dorrigo Markets, which, alongside our musical café breakfasts will bring even more special festival moments into town.

This year we’re working with the local Hand Made in Dorrigo Markets, which, alongside our musical café breakfasts, will bring even more special festival moments into town.

Connection and consistency are a big part of it. Every year people discover new performers, attend a different workshop or participate in something they haven’t experienced before, all within surroundings that feel safe, welcoming and inspiring.

Running alongside the Festival is the Old Time Music School, now in its eighth year. It offers three intensive days of learning and playing old-time music, and this year we’re also offering a two-day beginners boot camp.

How important is the festival to the Dorrigo community and local economy?

For someone att n in for th first time, what can they expect?

They can expect a friendly, family atmosphere that encourages new friendships and experiences. Above all, they’ll be surrounded by incredible music from the moment they pitch their tent, park their van or walk through the gates.

Our camping areas are extensive and all venues are weather-friendly with covered seating. From the Welcome to Country on Friday evening through until late Sunday, eight venues come alive with concerts, workshops, dancing and impromptu performances.

Creating a safe, family and environmentally friendly festival that everyone can enjoy is our pleasure and purpose.

What goes on behind the scenes to bring the festival to life each year?

Before the last festivalgoer has left and the site is packed down, work has already begun on the next event!

It’s a year-long labour of love led by a small, dedicated committee. Each festival builds on the last and incorporates feedback from festivalgoers and volunteers. Over 24 years, many people have helped lay the foundations for what the festival is today.

Each year our small team expands into an extended family of volunteers whose contribution is absolutely integral to the festival’s success.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival?

Festivals continue to be part of the fabric of creative communities, providing a place for communities, patrons, artists, production teams and creatives to come together.

Festivals such as Dorrigo provide a place to share and celebrate something incredibly important in today’s world. We hope smaller festivals continue to be recognised and supported through future funding so these experiences can thrive for generations to come.

Tickets are available through the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival website. Make sure you get yours and experience this much-loved festival for yourself! dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 49

Spring

Weddings

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e

Weddings PHOTOsWhite Design Images

BROOKE & WILL JACKSON

H

i Brooke and Will, tell us a little about your ‘how we met’ story?

We met how every 21stcentury love story begins…

Tinder! We spoke for a couple of days and then decided to go for lunch, which was very unlike both of us, as we usually wouldn’t meet someone in person so quickly.

We went to a Greek restaurant, and most of the food went to waste because we just talked the entire time. Brooke had planned a Kmart trip after the date but didn’t want the date to end, so she invited Will to go with her. Little did he know this would be the beginning of many Kmart trips together! We became inseparable from the very first moment. he only catch was that Brooke had accepted a teaching job in Canberra the day before they met. Safe to say, Will followed!

When do you think you each knew that marriage was in your future together?

Brooke had always imagined herself getting married, so for her, it was always going to be

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forever! Our relationship was such a surprise to begin with because we weren’t looking for anything when we met. But after we made the move to Canberra, we quickly knew that this was going to be forever.

with the incredible Kristy Burt from Sails, and the date was set!

Tell us about the proposal. Where were you both and what do you remember most?

We believed choosing our vendors was one of the most important parts of wedding planning.

They really make your day what it is. We were after local, down-to-earth people who had a fun and relaxed vibe, and we absolutely picked the right team. Our celebrant was Mindy from Marry Me Mindy, and she was incredible, to say the least. Brooke spent hours scrolling nstagram to find the perfect photographer and videographer. We chose Jae from White Design Images because we fell in love with her timeless and crisp photography.

Our videographer was Ashley Beer Will said to her, Videography. She was “How do you incredibly humble and Dancing the night away know it isn’t for us?” creative and produced and getting ridiculous Brooke laughed and, the most amazing photos with everyone in before she knew it, videos. Our DJ was the the photobooth was also he was down on one one and only Jimmy a highlight. knee. Brooke was from Ready Set Boom.

What would you tell in complete shock, He knows how to cou l s who ar in th jumping up and put on a good time! thic of lannin ri ht down!

We also used Poseit now?

Photobooths to add Don’t stress about the some extra fun to the small things. It's easy night, and our cake to get caught up in social media expectations and desserts were made by Baked by Katie. and the opinions of others around you. Don’t hat mom nts from th a ha a i lose sight of the whole reason you are getting im r ssion on ou married in the first place. ou don’t have to Seeing everyone we love most in our lives have an expensive wedding to have a beautiful together in one place, with the biggest smiles wedding. Put your money where it matters on their faces, was incredibly special. Our most to the both of you. Enjoy the process ceremony was fun and full of special moments because it will be gone before you know it! that we will treasure forever. We made sure hat ar ou most cit for in this n t we embraced the small moments together cha t r to th r and remained by each other’s side for most of To be honest, we are still coming to terms the day. We chose to have a sweetheart table with our special day and just how incredible it for our reception, and we were so grateful was e have ust finished renovating our first we did. It allowed us to sit back together and home, and we can’t wait to begin our own little appreciate the magnitude of the day. We wrote family and hopefully travel as much as we can every one of our guests a handwritten letter to together. use as their place card, and seeing the laughs

Will had been planning this moment for months! Brooke had also said that she wanted to be surprised, which was no easy feat because she’s a bit of a sticky beak. Will had the ring designed and then gave it to Brooke’s dad to hold onto. It was a Friday afternoon.

Brooke had arrived home from work and Will suggested, “Let’s go down to the beach for a fire, which was a common occurrence for us.

Will had initially dressed in some nice clothes, which Brooke quickly told him were far too overdressed for the beach, so he freaked out and changed into something more casual.

Brooke remembers Will driving quickly along the beach before coming to a sudden stop, nearly sending their dog Sadie through the windscreen. There was a beautiful picnic set up, and Brooke insisted that Will move the car because we were too close to someone else’s picnic. Will said to her, “How do you know it isn’t for us rooke laughed and, before she knew it, he was down on one knee. Brooke was in complete shock, jumping up and down!

Her best friend had helped Will with the proposal and then appeared from the bushes, secretly filming everything. e celebrated while watching the sunset with wine and cheese. hat w r th first f w thin s to fall into lac for th w in r th r c rtain l m nts that w r im ortant to ou that ou us as a startin oint for lannin he venue was the first item to tick off the list.

We both knew we wanted to be by the water.

We went to Sails Resort Port Macquarie and were very impressed, and then we saw the two palm trees with the water behind them and instantly fell in love. We both knew this was the perfect spot, so we didn’t look anywhere else.

We also didn’t want our guests to have to drive between venues on our wedding day, so having everything on site was a must. We sat down

ow i ou o a out choosin our n ors hat w r som of our choic s for th i a

and tears from our guests was incredible.

han s u s. Interview: Sarah Baker.

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PORT VEGAS PORT VEGAS ELOPEMENTS for couples who want to BREAK THE RULES of tradition, DITCH the BORING courthouse and get LEGALLY married ‘VEGAS-STYLE.’

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A rad registry style marriage

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Paperwork only while celebrating over a pizza, a couple of Margi’s with your mates or a game of bowling

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Tattooed weddings bands

PORT VEGAS has you covered!

2 EPIC LOCATIONS! BLACK DUCK BREWERY or THE BOWL Enquire now via my website www.marrymemindy.com.au

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By far the most popular package, have you just started planning your wedding?

suits your VIBE, I will hang around after I marry you to be your PARTY STARTING MC/Coordinator.

Have you written your guest list and now you’re like ‘What next?’

You won't need to check your watch or worry about a thing as I will be doing all the BTS work and be by your side from the "I Do's to the D Floor".

All you know is you don’t want some BORING long traditional wedding you’ve had to sit through in the past right?

I can help you break the rules of tradition and create a CHILLED, FUN & MODERN ceremony just the way YOU WANT it to be.

Not only can I ensure you have the PERFECT ceremony that

Sounds like this is exactly what you need?

Let’s get this party started!

Enquire now via my website www.marrymemindy.com.au

Fill out the contact form on her website www.marrymemindy.com.au or email ido@marrymemindy.com.au Follow Mindy on her socials; Marry Me Mindy- Port Macquarie @marryme.mindy Authorised Marriage Celebrant GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 55

personalised gifts Candles | Room Sprays | Wedding Inspired Gifts | Workshops Unit 10/1A Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie Shop online or visit us in-store lunicocandleco.com.au 0402 554 349 help@lunicocandleco.com.au 56 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Nestled amongst the natural beauty of the Mid North Coast, Haven Ridge is a wedding venue designed for celebrations that feel effortless, personal and unforgettable.

From intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, Haven Ridge offers a beautiful setting where couples can relax, celebrate and create memories with the people who matter most. Surrounded by lush gardens and peaceful countryside, the venue combines relaxed country charm with a modern, considered style.

With everything in one place, couples and their guests can enjoy the ease of onsite accommodation, beautiful ceremony and reception spaces and thoughtfully curated food and beverage experiences. Our team is passionate about bringing each couple’s vision to life, from the first planning conversation through to the final dance.

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic outdoor ceremony, a long-table celebration under the stars or a lively reception filled with good food, great drinks and even better company, Haven Ridge provides the perfect backdrop.

It’s more than a venue — it’s a place to eat, drink, stay and celebrate together, creating a wedding day that feels uniquely yours.

743 Ocean Drive, Grants Beach havenridge.com.au connect@havenridge.com.au

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One venue for every style of wedding ELOPEMENTS + COCKTAILS CELEBRATIONS $59PP

• Your choice of four roaming canapés • Room hire, dance floor and AV equipment • A cocktail or glass of sparkling on arrival • Wedding cake cut and served as dessert • 10% off accommodation for guests

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No unnecessary extras. No surprise venue fees.

Speak with our dedicated events team about your celebration. events@centrohotel.com.au 02 6583 0818 | mercurecentro.com.au 71 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

THE PERFECT PACKAGE $130PP • Canapés on arrival for one hour • Two-course alternate-drop meal • Three-hour Classic Beverage Package • Wedding cake cut and served as dessert • Bridal suite for the wedding night • 10% off accommodation for guests • Room hire, dance floor and PA system • Tables, white linen and reception essentials

Embark on a journey of elegance and sophistication where style meets you.

Shop 2 & 12 Peachtree Arcade, 78 Horton St, Port Macquarie,

oasisofelegance.com.au

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Capture your most meaningful moments effortlessly with photography that feels natural and timeless

YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED! CONGRATULATIONS! Relaxed, natural photography with gentle guidance where it helps. The beauty is in the unscripted moments between the two of you and the details that make your day yours.

“Lucy is absolutely incredible! We couldn’t be happier with our wedding photos, the day was captured so beautifully. Not only will we be able to cherish the photos forever, but Lucy also ensured the day went as smooth as possible. Our hearts are so full! - BLAKE & REGAN

0488 157 919 lucy@lucyhumphriesphotography.com lucyhumphriesphotography.com 62 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

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Thistle

Flowers

When it comes to crafting unforgettable moments, the magic often lies in the details and few local artists understand this quite like Matt and Chris, the creative forces behind Thistle Flowers. Renowned for their boundary-pushing designs, artistic fearlessness, and deep reverence for nature, this dynamic duo has quickly become the go-to floral stylists for couples looking to elevate their weddings or special event into true works of art.

H

i Matt and Chris. Spring is such a transitional and vibrant time for weddings, what are some of the unexpected or underrated colour palettes you’re most excited to work with this Spring, moving beyond the traditional pastel expectations?

We’ve never really been ones to follow a set colour palette just because it’s Spring. We love colour, te ture and shape, and finding beauty in combinations that can be a little unexpected.

Working with what’s in season is a big part of that.

This Spring we’re really drawn to richer, more layered palettes - deep reds and burgundies mixed with vibrant greens, pinks and softer tones. Alternatively, we’re also loving bold pops of colour against lots of interesting foliage and texture. Even classic white and green can feel incredibly contemporary when you play with shape and form. For us, it’s less about following a mood board and more about creating a feeling. Sometimes the slightly unexpected flower, foliage or colour is what makes the whole design work.

You’re known for championing local growers and sourcing heavily from regional suppliers along the Mid North 64 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

Coast, for couples marrying in Spring, which local blooms are currently stealing the show, and why is seasonal sourcing so crucial for wedding longevity?

One of the best things about the different seasons is seeing what our growers have coming through each week - Spring in particular. We don’t necessarily start with one flower in mind - part of the e citement is working with what is at its best at that moment.

Our relationship with growers goes right back to the beginning of Thistle. Matt started out using flowers from local growers, home gardens and things he could forage, so working with what is around us has always influenced his style. oday we source as locally as we can, with the ma ority of our flowers coming directly from farms and suppliers around the Mid North Coast and everything we use sourced within Australia.

We have a close relationship with many of the people growing the flowers we work with, and that connection is really important to us.

It also gives us access to interesting varieties that you don’t necessarily see everywhere.

Every season gives us something different, and there’s something really special about wedding flowers having a connection to that particular place and moment in time. Although we like

to keep our finger on the pulse when it comes to trends, we recommend that couples stay true to their own style rather than choosing something simply because it’s in vogue at the time.

Your styles range from understated elegance to bold, contemporary, and eccentric, how do you guide a couple through the design process to ensure their w in orals nuin l r ct th ir individual personalities rather than just followin a tin tr n We spend a lot of time listening. Couples don’t need to know the names of flowers or come to us with every detail worked out - that’s our job.

We’d much rather hear about them - where they’re getting married, what they’re wearing, the atmosphere they want to create and the things they naturally gravitate towards. From there, we can start building a floral concept that feels like them.

We also encourage people not to get too caught up in recreating something they’ve seen online. Inspiration is great, but we don’t want to copy somebody else’s wedding. Thistle has never really been about making the same thing twice. Some of our favourite briefs are when a couple gives us a sense of what they love and then trusts us creatively. That’s generally when something really special happens.

compete with it.

From statement arbours to hanging installations, Spring outdoor weddings offer incredible backdrops. What are some creative ways couples can make a high-impact visual statement with th ir c r mon orals whil in sustainability in mind? ore flowers doesn’t necessarily mean more impact. t’s about knowing where to put them. e often tell couples to invest in high-traffic areas or photo hotspots. For an outdoor ceremony, we look at the e isting landscape first. here might already be an incredible tree, view or architectural feature that doesn’t need to be covered up. Flowers can frame that landscape or draw your eye to it rather than

e love installations that feel as though they’re growing into or out of their surroundings - something a little wild, asymmetrical and natural rather than overly constructed. For us, it’s about working with the natural form of the flowers rather than trying to make every stem behave in e actly the same way.

We think about locally grown and seasonal flowers, foraged materials where appropriate, how structures are built and how elements can be repurposed.

ustainability is part of that conversation from the beginning. For us, it isn’t a separate trend - it’s tied to how histle works. e think about locally grown and seasonal flowers, foraged materials where appropriate, how structures are built and how elements can be repurposed. eremony flowers might later become part of the reception, so they’re en oyed well beyond the do .

If you could give one piece of golden advice to a couple sitting down with you for th ir initial oral consultation what would it be to help them achieve their dream Spring wedding aesthetic?

rust the process and don’t feel like you need to have it all worked out before you come and see us. ell us what you love, what you don’t love and how you want the day to feel. ring the dress, the venue, a few images or colours that speak to you, but leave some room for creativity and for the season to play its part. fter almost a decade of histle Flowers, we’ve learnt that the best results usually come when couples give us a sense of what they love and then leave a little room for us to create. rust us, trust the season and don’t feel like every flower needs to be decided before you walk through the door for a consultation. Flowers are natural, no two stems are e actly the same and no two weddings should be either. he best wedding flowers feel completely at home in the space and completely reflective of the couple. hat’s what makes them memorable.

Thanks guys. Interview: Sarah Baker.

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Meet the Visionary Tamara Dobson is Redefining Beauty and Style.

I

n a world where trends come and go, true style is built on confidence, empowerment, and authenticity. Enter Tamara Dobson, the dynamic force behind Illume Beauty and Make-up and her sought-after Illume Luxe dress hire boutique.

The most

Having both businesses allows me to support brides through their entire wedding journey.

We can help with everything from prewedding tanning, nails and beauty treatments to hair and makeup, mobile services on the wedding day, and dresses for wedding guests to hire. I love creating a look where the makeup, outfit and personality feel connected.

The most rewarding moment is seeing someone look in the mirror and light up, feeling celebrated, comfortable and confident.

Port Macquarie has the beginning for Illume rewarding grown into a wedding Luxe Hire. We cannot wait moment is seeing destination, with more to see the space and range someone look in the couples travelling grow as our plans come mirror and light up, from larger cities and to life. feeling celebrated, weddings happening comfortable and For brides and eventthroughout the year. confident. goers planning their As a regional business, looks this season, one challenge has what are some of the been limited access to standout makeup and luxury and designer fashion, with Newcastle fashion trends you’re most excited about? or ydney often being the first option. ’m his wedding season, ’m loving radiant skin, passionate about bringing statement pieces softly defined eyes, individual lashes and to Port Macquarie and Wauchope, particularly natural brows. For fashion, ’m e cited by inclusive and plus-size styles. romantic draping, one-shoulder silhouettes, s a curvy woman, understand how difficult rich colours and sparkle. Most of all, I love it can be to find something special for a helping each bride and guest choose a look wedding or event. ’m also e cited to work that feels true to them. with Indigenous fashion designers to bring Thanks Tamara.

Indigenous-designed and Australian-made dresses to our region. Supporting Indigenous businesses and showcasing their creativity and culture is meaningful to me.

The wedding and events landscape has evolved rapidly over recent years. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve navigated as a regional entrepreneur, and how has your business adapted to meet modern client expectations?

ur beauty salon is located beside ennifer’s Hair Salon at Shop 2, 48 High Street, Wauchope, offering hair and makeup in one location. Renovations are also underway at our Illume Luxe Hire space at 12 Blackbutt Road, Port Macquarie. This collection is only

Bridging both makeup artistry and dress hire spaces gives you a 360-degree view of a client’s wedding or special event.

What is the most rewarding part of bringing a complete look to life?

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Sciatic Pain:

P

IS YOUR BACK THE PROBLEM OR SOMETHING ELSE?

ain in the bum? Pain down your leg? Tingling or numbness?

Sciatic pain can be more than just a sore back. It can travel from your lower back or buttock, down the back of your leg and sometimes all the way to your foot.

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It starts in your lower back and travels through your buttock, thigh, lower leg and foot.

So, when the sciatic nerve is irritated, you can feel symptoms anywhere along its path.

What Does Sciatica Feel Like?

Sciatic pain can feel different for everyone.

You may experience: • Burning pain • Sharp or shooting pain • Pins and needles • Aching or throbbing • Numbness or weakness

Certain movements, positions or activities may make your symptoms worse.

But What Is Causing Your Pain?

This is where things get interesting. Sciatic pain can have more than one cause.

One common cause is a disc problem in your lower back, where a disc can irritate the nerve as it leaves the spine.

But the sciatic nerve can also become irritated or compressed deeper in the buttock as it travels towards the leg.

Same symptoms. Different causes. Different treatment.

Could Your Movement Be Making It Worse?

Your pain may have a movement or posture that makes it worse, but you may not even realise what your trigger is. One thing I often see is people “sitting in their pain” staying in positions that continue to aggravate their symptoms. Finding out what makes your pain

better or worse can be an important part of recovery.

If you're living with sciatic pain we can assess your symptoms, movement and posture to help identify what may be driving your pain and create a treatment approach based on your individual needs.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

Ryan Samuels Orthopaedic Acupuncturist

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PACERS Juniors P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

The Port Macquarie Pacers Juniors are transforming the solo sport of running into a thriving community movement of over 80 young athletes. We caught up with coach Luke McDonald to discuss the club’s rapid growth, the secret to building team culture, and the joy of getting kids outside to run.

H

i Luke, please introduce yourself to us and how you got involved with Port Macquarie Pacers?

Hi, I’m Luke McDonald. I’m married to Sharon and we have 3 active sons, Liam, Connor and Jesse. I’m a local High School PE Teacher and an Athletics Australia Coach. We got involved with the Port Pacers Running Club 3 years ago when Connor started showing signs of being a natural long distance runner. We were drawn to their friendly vibe whilst still having a competitive element.

We signed Connor up to the Junior Pacers group, then coached by Cat Morris. I nervously stepped in as replacement coach at the start of . had big shoes to fill, but the energy of the kids quickly had an infectious impact on

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me, and I love the privilege of coaching such enthusiastic, talented athletes.

juniors group I coach for kids who aim to run competitively.

Port Pacers Juniors has seen a massive surge in energy and momentum this year.

For readers who might be new to the club, what was the original inspiration behind setting up the junior branch?

How has the vision for the junior program evolved now that we're seeing so many young runners involved across the Hastings?

Port Pacers has over 270 members including 81 juniors and 16 volunteer coaches. When it started, it was evident there was a need to offer a program for the many kids and youth in the Hastings who wanted to improve their running whilst having fun with friends. It grew quickly and the club now offers two programs for juniors. There’s a group for kids aged 5-12 who want to run for exercise and fun, led by Christine Lalor and Mechelle Lane and the

Our vision is to encourage all kids to participate in regular exercise. It’s such an important part of life and improves our mental and physical health. The expansion of the juniors program has allowed us to offer two distinct groups. The vision of the first group is to learn running skills, improve fitness and have fun. he vision of the group I coach is focused on athlete development and competitive training.

Running is traditionally viewed as an individual sport, yet the juniors have built

a remarkably tightknit, supportive team environment. What do you think is the secret to creating that?

It was very exciting to watch our athletes compete. I was so proud of all of them, not just because they ran so well, but in the way they supported and encouraged each other.

Our team environment has been built on fun, encouragement, friendship, support and celebrating each other’s efforts and results. I’m so proud of this culture we’ve built together.

Running with their friends, each of my athletes is spurred on by each other and collectively, they lift to another level when training gets hard. This team mentality is clearly evident in our group by how much fun our athletes have together and build each other up. I also explain to my athletes that our team extends beyond just our group. When we run, we have a team of supporters behind us; our parents, coaches, friends, teachers and fellow runners who have all encouraged, cheered, supported, and mentored us. They are just as invested in you as an athlete as you are yourself. The amazing thing about our extended team is that they are there to celebrate with us when we achieve a strong result, and are equally there to pick us up and comfort us when we don’t perform well.

Sending 12 athletes to represent their schools and regions at the NSW All

Schools Cross Country Championships in July was a huge achievement. How did it feel watching them step up onto that state platform and how did they go?

It was incredible to have such a strong representative from Pacers qualify for State ross ountry. tate ualification makes you one of the top 80 runners out of 40,000 other kids your age in NSW. It was very exciting to watch our athletes compete. I was so proud of all of them, not just because they ran so well, but in the way they supported and encouraged each other. Our preparation and focus has now shifted to Athletics middle distances and many of our athletes are aiming to qualify for the NSW All Schools Athletics Carnival in October.

Beyond championship medals and state representation, what are some of the everyday wins or personal growth moments that make you proudest of these young athletes?

At the start of this year, each of my athletes set themselves specific and measurable goals. hese goals take commitment, dedication, and aren’t easy to achieve without specific training. ome

of these goals include qualifying for State for the first time, running a sub min parkrun, or improving their PB for certain distance. It’s been a privilege and joy to see them work towards these this year and it gives me an immense sense of pride and satisfaction for these kids when they succeed. But it’s also the little things, like the effort they put in even when it’s cold, windy or raining sideways. Or when I tell them we’re doing ‘just one more effort’ and they still manage to find the energy to push hard.

For parents or young people in the Hastings who might be on the fence about joining what would you say to encourage them to come along?

Running is a great sport for kids and adults, and is lots of fun when you’re with your friends. You can reach out to Port Pacers via their website www.portpacersrunningclub.com and they’ll help find you the right session.

With momentum building so quickly, where would you like to see the Port Pacers Juniors in the next few years?

We would love to see more kids get involved and experience the joy of running. We live in a beautiful part of Australia and running is a great way to get outside and enjoy being in nature!

Thanks Luke.

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WHEN BEREAVEMENT STRIKES, COMPASSION LEADS THE WAY Losing someone you love brings heartache, uncertainty and responsibilities that can feel overwhelming. In those moments, having a compassionate and experienced guide can make all the difference.

Leading the dedicated team at Hastings District Funerals, Tony Green brings years of familyfocused leadership to supporting Port Macquarie families during life's most challenging times. Together with a team that has been part of the local community since 1930,

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Tony helps ensure every farewell is arranged with care, attention and understanding.

Our role extends beyond the practical aspects of funeral planning. When everything feels like too much, we're here to ease the burden and take care of the details, allowing you to focus on what matters most, your family, your memories and celebrating the life of someone special.

You carry the love, let Tony and the Hastings District Funerals team take care of the rest.

focus_contributor.

Q&A

with DR KRISTY K O S T A L A S

OWNER - PORT MEDICAL AESTHETICS CLINIC

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Understanding Rosacea: Triggers, Management, and Treatment

r. Kristy, what exactly is rosacea, and why do some people develop it? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterised by persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small red bumps or pustules.

It typically affects the central face. The exact cause isn't completely understood, but it involves genetics, immune system dysfunction, and vascular reactivity. Some people are predisposed to it, and certain triggers can set it off.

How do I know if I have rosacea? Common signs include persistent redness on your cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead that doesn't fade easily.

You might notice visible blood vessels, a bumpy texture, or small red pustules. Your skin may feel hot or tight, and you might experience flushing that comes and goes. osacea is often triggered by specific things. f you notice redness that flares after spicy food, alcohol, heat, or stress, that's a clue. The key is that rosacea is persistent and follows a pattern.

If you're unsure, book a consultation. We can examine your skin and provide a proper diagnosis to distinguish rosacea from other skin conditions like acne or simple sensitivity.

What are the most common triggers?

Triggers vary by person, but common ones include spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, extreme temperatures, sun exposure, and stress. ome people react to specific skincare ingredients like menthol or fragrance. Exercise, intense emotions, and certain medications can also trigger flare-ups. eeping a diary to identify your personal triggers is helpful.

Is rosacea the same as sensitive skin?

Not quite. While rosacea is sensitive, not all sensitive skin is rosacea. osacea is a specific condition with visible redness and vascular involvement. Sensitive skin is broader and can result from barrier damage or product reactions. A proper diagnosis helps us create the right treatment plan.

How should someone manage rosacea at home? Start with a gentle skincare routine using mild cleansers and fragrancefree products. Avoid harsh exfoliation and products with alcohol, menthol, or irritating ingredients. Sun protection is crucial. SPF 50 daily is essential. Use hydrating serums and gentle moisturisers to support your skin barrier.

Identify and avoid your personal triggers. onsider using a green-tinted concealer if redness bothers you. hat a out rosac a s cific s incar plans? Rosacea is common, and we have developed tailored skincare plans specifically for rosacea-prone skin at . hese plans include a curated range of products designed to calm inflammation, strengthen your barrier, and avoid triggering ingredients. We recommend gentle cleansers, calming serums with niacinamide and azelaic acid, hydrating moisturisers, and supportive SPF. Each plan is customised to your specific rosacea type and triggers.

rosacea severity and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

What about LED therapy for rosacea? LED therapy is an in-clinic professional treatment that works beautifully for rosacea. Red LED calms inflammation and supports healing, while blue LED helps with any pustular component. t s gentle and non-invasive, soothes inflamed skin, and reduces redness over a series of sessions. t , we use medical-grade therapy calibrated specifically for rosacea-prone skin. It's often combined with other treatments like IPL or laser for enhanced results.

Can rosacea be cured? Unfortunately, there's no cure, but it's very manageable. With proper skincare, trigger avoidance, and professional treatments, most people see significant improvement. Consistency with your routine and treatments makes a real difference.

Final advice? If you suspect rosacea, book a consultation. Early management prevents worsening. Identify your triggers, commit to a gentle skincare routine, and use SPF 50 religiously. Professional treatments can significantly improve rosacea.

For personalised rosacea consultation, skincare plans, and treatment options, contact Port edical esthetics linic at 0421 253 025 or visit portmedicalaesthetics.com.au

Are there professional treatments for rosacea? Absolutely. IPL (intense pulsed light) is excellent for rosacea. It reduces visible blood vessels and persistent redness. Laser treatments calm inflammation and improve skin appearance. t , we assess your GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 73

LAKE CATHIE MANOR'S SUPERSTAR CARERS

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The very best care is delivered by the dedicated hands of each proud employee we have here at Lake Cathie Manor.

ake Cathie Manor is proud to be home to a team of superstar carers whose compassion, professionalism, and genuine joy in their work shape the daily experience of every resident. Under the guidance of the director of nursing, the home’s clinical excellence is carried by a diverse group of dedicated professionals, including the deputy director of nursing, clinical nurse managers, registered nurses, personal

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care workers, and lifestyle & wellbeing officers. Their work is supported seamlessly by the operations manager and administration manager, ensuring the 129-bed home runs with care and precision.

This strong foundation is further enriched by the all rior State ffice Team led by Michelle Burgess, xecutive Director of Care Regional Leader for North Homes, along with specialists in speech therapy, dietetics, skin integrity and clinical education. Together, they

form a network of expertise that elevates the quality of life for Lake Cathie Manor’s elderly community.

Our staff are both young and mature, but are all ‘rising stars of care’ in our region.

This wonderful diversity in the age and culture of our staff is what gives variety to the day of each resident as they enjoy interactions with different generations and customs. There is always something new to learn or converse about – which works both ways between our staff and residents!

Residents consistently say the staff are the heart of the home.

Resident Ken Hazlewood shares, “The staff are just wonderful… truly beautiful and kind people.” His words re ect the warmth that fills every corner of the building, turning bricks and mortar into a place that feels deeply lived in and loved.

Walking through the home, you notice the lightness in the air, the easy smiles, the meaningful conversations, the gentle support offered without

hesitation. very staff member is committed to making each day better than the last, creating a home where kindness is not just present, but abundant.

Enquire now if you would like to join our vibrant community.

Lake Cathie Manor Saltwater Place,Lake Cathie NSW 2445 P: 02 5542 2600 Hallprior.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 75

KLIM

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F I N D I N G P U R P O S E B E YO N D T H E P O O L

For a generation of sports fans, the name Michael Klim instantly conjures up images of raw power slicing through water, gold medals gleaming under stadium lights, and a fierce competitor standing proudly on the Olympic podium. As a world champion, world record holder, and a cornerstone of Australia’s golden era of swimming, Klim’s identity was once inextricably tied to supreme physical capability.

Today, the champion swimmer faces a different kind of race. Diagnosed with Chronic nflammatory emyelinating olyneuropathy , a rare, progressive autoimmune disorder that attacks the peripheral nerves and causes muscle wasting, lim has had to confront the gradual loss of his mobility. et, rather than retreating from the public eye, he has embraced a powerful new role as an advocate, author, and founder of the lim Foundation passionate about finding a cure.

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i Michael. Standing at the newly revitalised North Sydney Olympic Pool, surrounded by old team-mates, Olympians and hundreds of supporters, must have felt surreal. How did it feel bringing the launch of the Klim Foundation last year back to a place with such profound personal and historic si nificanc t was an emotional day because the foundation has been a couple of years in the making. t encompassed what we ve been through on a personal level, but then the possibility of the impact of what we are now making on a broader scale is phenomenal. robably the biggest thing that was very touched by, and still am whenever think about it, was the

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response from people and friends and the wider community who attended. m very grateful to have that support. e’ve also been able to build an ama ing website klimfoundation.org.au with a hub of information for anyone that wants to learn about the condition. e ve been able to provide services, services, operational therapies and moving forward potential research of the condition so that every patient and their families are up-to-date in terms of what the future holds and ma imising the therapies as well. y bringing in all the medical e perts into one platform we can e change knowledge and theories and we’re much stronger when it comes to taking on a challenge like this.

What is the main message you want the public and everyday Australians to understand about what it's like living with this isor r rsonall here is the physical impact, but then the impact of losing a certain identity and having to come to terms with a reduced output as a person is a lot. For me, have started to appreciate smaller things in life and really focussing on being more present and en oying what am able to e perience. can still get in the ocean and get in the pool and have a paddle. t is definitely at a different pace to

what it used to be, but there are definitely things that had to give up, like surfing and playing basketball and other things that are very physically ta ing. t is the foundation of what we are achieving that gives me so much drive and motivation to keep going. never donated blood previously and sitting in that chair every three weeks makes me really appreciate it and am so grateful for all of those to donors that have come forward and many others that continue to donate. would want to encourage all ustralians to go in and donate blood or plasma. t is something that is painless. t is a tangible thing that ustralians can give to other ussies to improve the uality of life and in some cases actually save their lives.

At your launch event, stories were shared a out oun r fi ht rs li ar ol Oliver Davis from Kew, who undergoes IVIG infusions every three weeks. What goes through your mind when you see children and families facing this condition and how does it fuel your drive with your foun ation For me, know how hard it was on the people around me when was first coming down with the initial symptoms and we were searching for answers. here was a huge decline in my physical functionality, my appearance and my

mental state. Everyone around that patient, or around me that wants that person to improve, gets really pulled into that nucleus. Everyone gets affected by it, and probably even more so because they're not living in that body, and they just want the best for the patient.

It is really hard on families, and with children especially, but if you're a primary provider in the household and it gets diagnosed, the family suffers because a majority of the income is not being provided. There is a lot of strain that comes along with conditions such as this.

That's what motivates me when I speak up about the work that the Klim Foundation is doing and the work that Lifeblood is doing.

I guess I'm really proud of all the people that have come together, especially my fianc e Michelle who is championing the side of the carers and the families that do experience just as much hardship as what the patients do.

When you look back at your legacy, how important is it to you that the Klim Foundation becomes your most meaningful race now?

It’s a really good question because my Chairman, Paul Bird, who's had extensive experience in the philanthropic world, when we were first starting off said to me that this will be the greatest thing that you’ll ever do. I said my Olympic gold medals were pretty good but

that’s in the past now.

This is something that I can leave a legacy with the foundation and the work that we're doing and hopefully that will carry on for many, many years to come.

That’s what motivates me when I speak up about the work that the Klim Foundation is doing and the work that Lifeblood is doing. I guess I’m really proud of all the people that have come together...

Managing CIDP requires strict adherence to treatment schedules, physical pacing and immense self-care. ow has our finition of h alth an personal wellness evolved since your diagnosis?

Klim Foundation, what are your biggest goals for the organisation over the next few years in terms of medical support, patient advocacy and changing the landscape for CIDP sufferers in Australia?

m definitely much more conscious of my lifestyle. I think that a lot of the improvement, which actually goes hand in hand with mental health, has come from lifestyle changes. The treatment is a huge foundation and a base for staying where you are and building on that. My life now is devoted to making sure that I can continue having the same mobility and functionality as I had the day before and improve on that. There are such marginal gains that you can't always see them, but it's that drive and the perseverance that I guess is the main thing that's carried over from all the sport.

I think it's another great question because ultimately the blue sky picture scenario is to work out why this is happening and why this condition occurs. econdly, once we find that, we can move towards finding a cure. don t want any of the patients or people that are affected by this condition to feel like they're going through this alone. So for us to build a platform where they can reach out and talk to counsellors, talk to dieticians, physios, OT specialists, and really have a great support network for anyone that's navigating this is great. f it comes down to financial support or certain funding for special bracing or walking aids, whatever it might be, we would ultimately like to be able to provide some of the services that NDIS can't provide or that patients can't cover themselves.

Finally Michael, with the cementing of the

Thanks Michael. Interview: Sarah Baker.

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focus_contributor.

OUTGROW WHAT HOLDS YOU BACK

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GROWTH LOOKS DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE

here isn’t one routine, exercise, book or way of living that’s going to work for all of us.

The important thing is being willing to find what works for you. Sometimes growth isn’t about adding more to your life. ometimes it’s about looking at what, and who might be holding you back. he people we surround ourselves with matter. If you are trying to change your life but you’re constantly around people who pull you back into old habits and old cycles, it becomes bloody hard to keep moving forward. t could be people dragging you back to the pub when you’ve decided drinking isn’t helping you anymore. t could be drugs or situations you know aren’t good for you. It might be negative talk, gossip, putting other people down or conversations that don’t align with your values. hat doesn’t make those people bad people. t means you’re heading in different directions. aving the right people in your life is so important. Not only for growth, but for happiness and your kids and partner. e need people who support us without udgement. eople we can talk to when life gets hard. eople who want to see us doing well and don’t try to drag us backwards when we start changing. heard this uote a few years back: “There are two people in this world you need to make proud - the year old version of you and the year old version of you. ould the year old you be proud of the person you’re becoming nd when 78 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

MEN’S Heh with BEN CUDMORE

SELF SEEN AND UNSTOPPABLE COMMUNITY

you’re years old, looking back at your life, will you be proud of the choices you’re making today e’re going to make mistakes along the way. e’re human. e’ll have bad days. e’ll make poor choices. very now and then we’ll fall back into old habits. rowth isn’t about being perfect - it’s about recognising when you’ve gone off track and having the courage and accountability to start moving forward again. nother huge part of growth is trying new things. t’s easy to sit there and say, hat’s not for me. uestion yourself what is for me? There are so many things we can try that can support our mental and physical wellbeing. ercise. ifting weights. tretching. alking. unning. reathwork. editation. ratitude. ournalling. riting. eading. t could even be colouring in. Find something that allows you to switch off for a while. omething that fills your cup and stops you from constantly thinking about work, money, responsibilities and everything else life throws at us. ou might try meditation and hate it. ou might try running and realise you’d rather walk. reathwork might change the way you manage stress, or you might discover that writing your thoughts down works better. he point isn’t that you need to do everything - the point is to find what works for you. ive yourself the evidence that you’re trying to look after yourself. very time you go for a walk instead of sitting on the lounge, that’s evidence. very time you train, stretch, breathe, read, ournal or choose something positive over

an old habit, that’s evidence. hose little bits of evidence stack up. hey compound over time. ventually, looking after yourself stops feeling like something you’re trying to do and starts becoming part of who you are. Small steps in the right direction lead to big results and when we start feeling better with ourselves, that has an impact on the people around us too. ur partners, our kids, our mates and the people we work with feel that positive ripple. rowth doesn’t mean doing everything alone either. If things are getting heavy, speak to your . ee a psychologist, counsellor or another ualified professional. . ome things will work. thers won’t. eep trying. Find your people.

Find your habits. Find what makes you feel stronger, calmer and happier. eep stacking the evidence and keep becoming someone the year-old you would look up to and the year old you will thank you for. hen it’s real tough remember your why. red hot tip for you all is to practice gratitude. t’s so easy to forget all the beautiful things we have in our lives with all the noise of the world. ight now think about 3 things you’re grateful for, put a smile on your face and have a great day. elf een meets times a week, Friday run am at own each, eekly en’s ircle, unday bb and walk. nstoppable community has monthly breathwork for men and women, men’s workshops and mi ed breathworkournaling-ice bath workshops coming up. mail me on info unstoppablecommunity.com. au for any uestions.

focus_contributor.

WOMEN’S

HEALTH with GRAYCE GERKE

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE

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Do It Anyway: A Pelvic Floor Physio’s Honest Advice for Women’s Health Week

very September, Women’s Health Week rolls around and I watch the same thing happen in my clinic.

Women book in for a “quick check” they’ve been putting off for two years. They apologise before they even sit down. They tell me they should have come sooner. This year’s theme, “Do it anyway, could not be more fitting, because so much of women’s health comes down to doing the uncomfortable thing before it becomes urgent. s a pelvic floor physiotherapist, see the consequences of delay every day. The mum who’s been leaking a little when she sneezes since her second baby, now aged nine. The woman who assumed the heaviness she feels standing up is just “part of getting older.” The client who’s had pelvic pain for years and was told by three different people that it was normal. None of it was normal. All of it was manageable, and most of it would have been easier to manage earlier.

Here is what I wish every woman knew.

Leaking is common, but it is not something you have to live with. One in three women who have had a baby experience some form of incontinence, and it also affects women who have never been pregnant, particularly around

menopause. Common does not mean normal, and it does not mean unmanageable. elvic floor physiotherapy has strong evidence behind it as a first-line treatment, often more effective than people expect.

Prolapse is not the end of your active life. A diagnosis of prolapse understandably frightens people, but for many women it can be managed well with the right exercise program, support garments or a pessary, and some adjustments to how you lift and move. It is rarely a reason to stop exercising altogether, and in fact the right kind of movement usually helps.

So what does “doing it anyway” look like in practice? It might mean booking the appointment you’ve rescheduled twice. It might mean telling your GP that the pelvic pain isn’t actually fine, or the leaking isn’t actually manageable.

Pain with tampon insertion or internal exams deserves an answer, not a shrug.

Pelvic pain has real, physical, manageable causes more often than it gets credit for. If you’ve been told to “just relax” or “have a glass of wine first, it’s worth seeking a second opinion from a pelvic health physiotherapist. our

control. It supports your organs, contributes to core and spinal stability, and plays a role in how your body manages pressure during everything from laughing to deadlifting. Training it well is part of general fitness, not a niche concern for new mums.

l ic oor is not ust a out la

r

So what does “doing it anyway” look like in practice?

It might mean booking the appointment you’ve rescheduled twice. It might mean telling your GP that the pelvic pain isn’t actually fine, or the leaking isn’t actually manageable.

Women’s health has a long history of being minimised, both by the health system and by women ourselves.

We are often the last people we advocate for.

This week is a good excuse to change that, even briefly. ook the appointment. sk the awkward question. Say out loud that something doesn’t feel right, even if you’ve been saying it’s fine for years.

You don’t need a perfect health week. You just need to do the one thing you’ve been putting off. Do it anyway.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 79

CARLIE COMER

CEO, LINKED COMMUNITY SERVICES

Leadership Isn’t a Title - It’s a Capability We Need to Build.

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hen I started thinking about leadership development at Linked Community Services, one question kept coming back to me: Are we giving our people the opportunity to become the leaders we know they can be?

Across our organisation, we have people at different stages of their careers who show enormous potential. They are curious, committed, willing to step forward and often influence others long before the word leader appears in their job title.

But potential needs opportunity.

That thinking led me to develop the Linked Leadership Acceleration Pathway (LLAP) program.

Why LLAP? Leadership development is often something we invest in once someone becomes a manager. I wanted to turn that thinking around.

Why wait?

The capabilities we expect from good leaders, including accountability, confidence, communication, decision making, self-awareness and the courage to have difficult conversations, don’t suddenly appear when someone receives a new job title.

They need to be developed, practised and supported.

LLAP was created to identify and nurture that potential within Linked, giving our emerging leaders an opportunity to stretch themselves, build confidence and better understand what leadership really means.

More than a Leadership Workshop LLAP was deliberately designed to be different from a traditional leadership course.

Rather than simply attending a series of workshops, participants combine learning with practical application, exposure to different parts of the organisation, real leadership challenges, reflection and feedback.

There is a focus on understanding yourself as a leader, communicating effectively, having courageous conversations, making decisions, taking accountability and learning to see the organisation through a broader lens.

Participants are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, apply what they are learning in their everyday work and, importantly, have the opportunity to try, receive feedback, reflect and try again.

SOMETIMES PEOPLE NEED SOMEONE TO OPEN THE DOOR.

LLAP isn’t about teaching people one particular way to lead. It’s about helping people discover how they lead, recognise their strengths and understand where they need to continue developing.

Seeing Potential Before The Title One of the greatest privileges of leadership is seeing something in someone that perhaps they don’t yet see in themselves.

Sometimes people need someone to open the door. After that, they need the opportunity, support and challenge to walk through it themselves.

That’s what I hope LLAP provides.

Success doesn’t necessarily mean every participant becomes a manager. eadership can be someone finding the confidence to contribute when they previously stayed quiet. It can be taking ownership of an issue, having a difficult conversation, leading a project or putting forward an idea that changes how we operate.

Building From Within Linked continues to grow and evolve, and we need to make sure the capability of our people grows with us.

I want our emerging leaders to understand the organisation beyond their own role, feel confident making decisions and recognise that they have permission to contribute, challenge thinking and take responsibility for outcomes.

Ultimately, I didn’t create LLAP simply to develop our next group of managers.

I created it because I want to build an organisation full of people who are prepared to lead from wherever they sit.

People who are curious enough to ask why. onfident enough to have the conversation.

Humble enough to keep learning.

And accountable enough to own the outcome.

If some of those people become Linked’s future managers and senior leaders, that’s a great outcome. But the bigger goal is to help our people recognise their own potential and give them the opportunity to do something with it.

Because when we invest in our people, we strengthen our organisation and, ultimately, our ability to make a difference in the communities we support.

Those moments matter because collectively they shape the culture of an organisation.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 81

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TORI McCOMBE

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B E N N E T T S

S T E E L

ell us about your role and how long you have worked at Bennetts Steel?

I first came to Bennetts Steel when I was 16 for work experience. I liked it so much that I came back the next year. I then started my apprenticeship in 2020. Now, in 2026, I’m the Fabrication Manager. I organise fabrication jobs, steel ordering, quotes and invoices for my department, while still getting my hands dirty and completing hands-on fabrication with the team. It’s a good mix of office work and being out in the workshop.

the opportunity to step into the role of Acting General Manager when required. I also achieved a podium finish in a national metal fabrication competition. It’s pretty rewarding seeing how far I’ve come from starting here at 16.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received? My mentor Ray, who showed me through my apprenticeship, once said, “If you have the right attitude, you will never stop learning.” That has always stuck with me. It keeps me wanting to ask questions, learn from others and dive deeper into the different aspects of the trade, from fabrication and technical skills to working with people and understanding different management styles.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you? To me, it shows that turning up, working hard and doing what you love every day really does pay off. It also means a lot to know that I have the support of the people around me and that the hard work is being recognised.

What accomplishment at this company are you most proud of so far? I have a few accomplishments I’m proud of.

The main ones are my promotion to Fabrication Manager straight out of my apprenticeship and recently having

Tell us about the one thing that keeps you heading into work each day? I get great job satisfaction from completing tasks and seeing a job go from a drawing on paper to something real. I also enjoy the people around me. There’s always a laugh, a challenge or someone asking a question that keeps things interesting. No two days are ever quite the same.

Connect with Bennetts Steel 6 Industry St, Wauchope 6585 2851 02 6585 2851 bennettsteel.com.au

bennettsteel.com.au

6 Industry St, Wauchope

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I

f you’d told the younger version of me that I’d leave Sydney, change careers and find more opportunity, community and purpose than ever e pected, probably would have laughed at you.

urns out, sometimes the best opportunities come when things don’t go to plan. nd mine definitely didn’t. thought needed to have life figured out early. ick a career. ork hard. limb the ladder. Find the ne t opportunity. epeat. ’ve always been ambitious, curious and driven. naturally put my hand up, bring ideas to life and throw myself into opportunities where can make a difference. ut ’ve learnt that being busy and being purposeful are two very different things.

Going the “Wrong” Way grew up in ydney, surrounded by family and the big smoke . e often hear about young people leaving regional communities because they believe they need to move to the city to make it . did the opposite. oving to the ort ac uarie region became one of life’s greatest gifts. didn’t find less opportunity here. found a different kind, one that gave me room to grow, a sense of belonging and a community that uickly became home.

CHARLOTTE COLLIERMITCHELL C O M M U N I C AT I O N S & E N G A G E M E N T L E A D, LINKED COMMUNITY SERVICES

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Then Came the Career Plot Twist efore inked, worked in fashion, an industry genuinely thought was my future. hen that chapter une pectedly ended. t felt like somebody had thrown my carefully imagined career plan out the window. n hindsight hank goodness they did. t challenged me to stop asking, hat am going to do ne t and start asking, hat is my purpose hat tiny shift in language completely changed the way looked at my future.

It Started With a Text y inked ommunity ervices story didn’t begin with a ob advertisement. simply sent a te t to arlie omer and asked if could volunteer.

There wasn’t a master plan. I wanted to get involved, contribute to my new community and use my skills somewhere they could truly make a difference.

Rather than focusing on the community services experience I didn’t have, Carlie saw the energy, creativity and willingness I could bring to the organisation.

That opportunity to volunteer eventually became an entirely new chapter when Carlie gave me that single opportunity and Linked gave me room to run with it.

And anyone who knows me personally… when you give me room to run… I’m guaranteed to sprint!

Finding My Place “Change” was an understatement coming into community services. I certainly didn’t arrive pretending to know everything, and I still don’t. But I came with curiosity.

Through my role, I’ve met extraordinary people and worked alongside locals, businesses and organisations that have shown me what community really means.

I’ve discovered communications is about much more than social media, events or pretty graphics. It’s storytelling. Making somebody feel seen and connecting people who may never have found each other.

That’s the part I love.

Leadership Without Waiting for the Title This year, I was selected for Linked’s Leadership Acceleration Pathway.

This challenged how I perceive leadership and myself.

One of my biggest lessons is that leadership doesn’t magically appear when somebody adds “Manager” to your title. Leadership is how you show up.

It’s attitude, accountability, courage and contribution. It’s backing an idea, having uncomfortable conversations, admitting when you’re wrong and learning from others.

Being young in professional environments can be intimidating. I’ve walked into rooms surrounded by people with decades more

experience and thought, Wow, I have a lot to learn.

And I do.

But I’ve also learnt I’m not there to demonstrate what a “young person” can do. I’m there because I’ve earned it.

MY CAREER CHANGE TAUGHT ME THAT LOSING THE PATH YOU PLANNED CAN BE HOW YOU FIND THE ONE YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO EXPLORE.

Experience is valuable, but so is fresh perspective and the willingness to ask, “Why do we do it that way?”

Sometimes being the youngest person in the room is the best seat to have.

So… What Now? Ironically, after learning to stop obsessing over “what next?”, I’m incredibly excited about what’s next.

I want to keep growing, contributing to Linked and giving back to the community that has given me so much. I also want to encourage other young people to back themselves, because I’ve learnt how powerful our stories can be.

weren’t ualified for.

Maybe they send the draft email, make the move or take the opportunity.

My career change taught me that losing the path you planned can be how you find the one you’re supposed to explore. Sydney taught me opportunity isn’t always where everyone else is looking.

Port Macquarie taught me the power of community. Carlie taught me what it means for a leader to see potential. And Linked gave me the opportunity to turn that potential into purpose.

I came to Linked asking if I could volunteer.

And I’ve walked away with a community, career, people who back me for me and a much clearer idea of the person I want to become.

Not bad for one text.

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G

JAMES

SERENITY LIFTS APPAREL

oing from training for elite athletics to facing hospitals, needles and medication is a massive hurdle for a 15-yearol . ow i am s fin th strength to navigate those early days of recovery? The gym remained a place where James could focus on something positive and measurable. As his recovery progressed, his goals also began to broaden.

While athletics and the possibility of one day competing at Commonwealth level remained important to him, and a potential scholarship at a USA university, he developed a serious interest in bodybuilding and the longer-term ambition of earning International Federation of Body Building and Fitness (IFBB) Pro status and, ultimately, working towards the Mr Olympia stage.

This year, James has been fortunate to receive guidance and mentorship from young IFBB Pro Anton Ratushnyi. He has also drawn inspiration from different generations of bodybuilding, including six-time Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead (CBum), Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike Mentzer and Australian bodybuilding icon Lee Priest.

What interests James isn't simply building muscle. Training has led him to learn more about nutrition, recovery, discipline, biomechanics and the connection between physical and mental wellbeing. That broader idea of becoming stronger, rather than simply looking stronger, has increasingly influenced the direction of erenity Lifts.

James, what accomplishment are you most proud of so far? Athletics and getting second in both high jump and long jump at NSW All Schools and making Nationals. At the time, everything I was doing was focused on athletics and seeing how far I could take it.

But I'm also proud that when that pathway I planned had some challenges; I kept working towards these and new goals, instead of just 86 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

stopping. Having a gym membership, and friends to train with and encourage, has helped me understand myself better so I can support others in their own journeys.

Training became a big part of that. I've started learning a lot more about bodybuilding, nutrition, recovery and how muscle actually develops, and I've been really fortunate this year to get guidance from Anton Ratushnyi. I also read lots about Chris Bumstead (CBum), Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike Mentzer, Dorian Yates and Lee Priest for their different approaches to weight training. It’s important to get a range of information to understand how important training correctly and eating right helps each of us individually.

One of my long-term goals is to earn IFBB Pro status and see how far I can take bodybuilding, with the ultimate ambition of working towards the Olympia stage and being the youngest IFBB ro, with the goal of doing my first competition towards the end of next year. But I'm also proud of building Serenity Lifts because that's something that came directly from a period where things weren't going the way I'd planned.

I think that’s probably the biggest thing I’ve learnt, your goals can change, but that doesn’t mean you stop dreaming big or trying to achieve more.

Where can readers follow your journey and purchase Serenity Lifts? The easiest way to purchase Serenity Lifts apparel is through our online store. serenitylifts.com You can follow the brand, our latest products, training content and the Serenity Lifts journey on Instagram at @serenity_lifts. Readers can also follow James's own training and athletic journey at @james.fnl. We're an online business, but we're proudly based in Port Macquarie and we want local people to feel like they're part of Serenity Lifts as it grows.

YOUR STORM = YOUR STORY. REP. REST. REPEAT.

TEGAN WYATT

SUPPORT SERVICES FOR YOU

T

ell us about your role and how long you have worked at Support Services For You? I stepped into the role of Co-Director two years ago, and it's been an incredible journey.

My role covers everything from business development, marketing, and finance to supporting our team and helping shape the direction of the organisation. What I love most is creating opportunities for growth and making a positive difference for our team, our clients, and our community.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received? Focus on people first.

Business and Bronze for Best Health & Wellbeing Business at the ROAR Awards.

Tell us about the one thing that keeps you heading into work each day? The "goosebump moments".

It's when a client tells us they've landed a job, enrolled in a course, attended an appointment independently, or achieved something they never thought they could. eeing people grow in confidence and independence never gets old.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you? Being recognised as a Rising Star is incredibly humbling.

When I became Co-Director

I've learned that when people feel valued, heard, and supported, amazing things can happen. It's a simple piece of advice, but it continues to guide me every day.

two years ago, I never imagined how

What accomplishment at this company are you most proud of so far? I'm most proud of the culture we've built at Support Services For You. We've created an environment where people support each other, feel safe asking for help, and focus on learning rather than blame.

opportunities, and learned so much along

I'm also proud of the welcoming space we ve created for our clients. ur office has become a place where people can connect, have a chat, and feel supported.

difference wherever I can.

I believe that culture is the reason we've been able to grow, make a meaningful impact, and receive recognition as finalists in eight categories at this year's Port Macquarie Business Awards, as well as taking home Silver for Best Regional

much I would grow, both professionally and personally. I've stepped outside my comfort zone, embraced new the way.

For me, this recognition reflects not only my journey, but also the amazing team, clients, and community who have been part of it. It motivates me to keep learning, growing, and making a positive

Shop 2, 17 Short Street, Port Macquarie 02 6583 8966 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 87

JESSE WEBBER

T

ell us about your role and the business you work for?

I am the Company Director and Approved Provider of Playtime Childcare, with early childhood learning services in Wauchope and Port Macquarie and our newest service at Beechwood currently taking shape. My role is a bit of everything, overseeing the business, supporting our leadership team and educators, planning growth and making sure we continue to provide a service that genuinely supports children and families. No two days are ever quite the same, and over the past 2 years I have learnt so much from my team, families and wider community.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received? A quote my brother-in-law shared with me once from a book was to “Eat the Frog.” Essentially, it means don’t put off the hard things and don’t overcomplicate them. ackle the difficult task, have the tough conversation and make the decision. o it first. on’t delay it or let it sit there getting bigger in your head. Instead, take it as an opportunity to learn from whatever comes from it. It’s something I’ve carried with me both professionally and personally, and I try to put into practice especially when something feels uncomfortable or challenging.

What accomplishment are you most proud 88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

of so far? I am incredibly proud of what we have built together across our Playtime services. Absolutely nothing we achieve would be possible without every member of our team showing up each day to educate and care for the wonderful tiny humans we get to spend our days with, as well as the families who choose us and trust us with something they quite literally built from scratch - their child.

Coming from a business management background and stepping into early learning has been a HUGE learning curve, and my team has guided and inspired me the whole way.

Most recently, that inspiration led me to take another big step and begin my Bachelor of Education at the University of New England.

Seeing the passion of our teachers and educators has made me want to deepen my own knowledge and continue raising the bar for quality learning outcomes for children in our community.

For me, that’s probably what I’m most proud of, building something alongside an incredible team who have also challenged and inspired me to keep growing myself Tell us about the one thing that keeps you heading into work each day? Joy and kindness. I genuinely enjoy my work, our team, and what we achieve together every day. There is always a chance to have fun, support one another, learn and grow.

I really believe that if we all sprinkle a little

joy and a little kindness into each day, the knock-on effect can be exponential. It shapes the way our team feels, the way our children experience their day, and ultimately the way our families and wider community feel too.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you? It’s really special. When you’re busy running a business, raising a family and constantly working towards the ne t thing, you don’t often stop and reflect on how far you’ve come. Being recognised as a Rising Star is a lovely reminder that the work, the risks and the long days are leading somewhere. ut also see this recognition as a reflection of the environment and the people around me. Being predominantly based in Wauchope, there is such a strong, tight-knit sense of community, and I feel what we have built within our Playtime service at Port Macquarie is an extension of that.

Nothing I’ve achieved has been done alone.

My husband - Web , our three kids, our wider family and friends, and of course our incredible Playtime team all help keep it together.

The recognition is wonderful, but I think it’s equally important to acknowledge that some days we drop the ball and some days are just hard. Hopefully, though, the ball bounces, and we get that gentle reminder that we can do hard things, keep going and keep sprinkling joy.

CYBELE CODDINGTON L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E AG E N T LIFESTYLE. WAUCHOPE

T

ell us about your role and how long you have worked at The Lifestyle Group. I’ve only recently joined The Lifestyle Group, a little over a month ago, but I’ve been working in real estate since 2021.

I’m really enjoying the change and the opportunity to continue learning, growing and building my career with the team.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received? “Don’t have a Plan B.” For me, it’s about fully committing to what you want to achieve. If you’re always keeping another option in the back of your mind, you can sometimes give yourself an excuse not to push through the challenges. I believe in backing yourself and giving Plan A everything you’ve got.

What accomplishment at this company are you most proud of so far? I’m proud to be here. Sometimes you can become comfortable in certain situations, and making a change can be difficult, even when you know it’s what you need. I’ve always believed that a change can be as good as a holiday,

and sometimes it’s exactly what’s needed to grow. Making the move to The Lifestyle Group is something I’m really proud of, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.

Tell us about the one thing that keeps you heading into work each day. The opportunity to keep improving. Real estate is an industry where every day is different, and there’s always something new to learn. I enjoy the relationships you build, the challenges that come with the job and the feeling of working towards something bigger. Knowing that there’s always another goal to chase keeps me motivated.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you? To be recognised this early in my journey makes me feel like the hard work and commitment I’ve put in are being noticed. For me, being a Rising Star isn’t just about where I am now, but about the potential of where I can go.

It motivates me to keep learning, keep pushing myself and make the most of the opportunity I’ve been given.

0459 284 779 cybele.coddington@lifestylegroup.com.au

WILLIAM EADES T O W N

T

G R E E N

G A L L E R Y

ell us about your role and what inspired you to become a photographer to open your own gallery?

Photography has been a huge part of my life for nearly 20 years.

It started with a fascination with the natural world, wildlife, starry skies and severe weather fascinated me, picking up a camera was a natural step.

Over time, my work gained traction and opened some amazing doors, taking me around Australia and overseas teaching others to photograph nature.

I wanted to give my work and classes a permanent home, and that became Town Green Gallery, somewhere photography can be experienced properly.

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What accomplishments are you most proud of so far? I’ve been fortunate to have my work recognised and to teach others, but photographing a tornado at close range was a top moment for sure.

Opening Town Green Gallery is right up there too. The number of people who walked in during ArtWalk, looked around and just swore was hilarious. I don’t think many locals have seen our region photographed quite this way before. I get a real kick out of their reactions.

Tell us about the one thing that keeps you heading into work each day? efinitely the conversations and connections with customers. Every day people show me their work, ask advice and talk photography. To have someone connect with an image, then to have them hang it in their home - what a privilege.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received? A Richard Branson quote has always stuck with me: “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.”

Tell us what a working day looks like for you? It might start photographing a sunrise before heading into the gallery to edit, develop workshops or organise printing and framing. If the closed sign is up and there’s a storm rolling in, I’m probably out in the elements with a camera.

It’s pushed me outside my comfort zone many times.

Imposter syndrome is real, but at some point you have to lock in and back yourself.

I’m incredibly lucky to have a family that supports me, even when I doubt myself. Their encouragement has been a driving force behind the gallery.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you? I’m incredibly proud to be recognised in my hometown. I was born and raised here and went to Westport High. It feels full circle to now showcase this incredible part of Australia through fine art photography and pass on what I’ve learned to other creatives in the community.

HEATHER HILTON

H

PORT PICTURE CO

ow did your journey in photography lead to Port Picture Co? I’m the founder and Creative Director of Port Picture Co. The name is new, but the photography definitely isn’t. y husband incoln and have worked professionally in photography and cinematography for more than 17 years, including commercial work in elbourne for ma or brands.

When we moved to Port ac uarie, we decided to build something fresh here and officially launched ort icture o in . absolutely love ort, always say it feels a little like a natural awaii to me lush, coastal, beautiful and a small town community.

What mindset has shaped the way you approach your career? “You never know what you can do until you try.”

Starting as a sign on my bedroom growing up, this uote stuck with me and has uietly become one of the philosophies live by. tend to work out how, learn fast and become slightly obsessed along the way

campaign, directing a team, flying a drone or shooting video, then finishing barefoot in the ocean photographing a couple at sunset or creating a cinematic film.

What have been some of your most memorable shoots? Some of my favourite shoots have come from completely une pected places. incoln is a world champion bagpiper and composer, and we actually met in a bagpipe band, was on drums and he was on pipes ome of our earliest creative work together came from that world. ince then ’ve photographed ma or brands, weddings, families, beautiful homes, conferences and large events. he scale changes, but still love the same thing creating an image that feels bigger and more alive than people e pected.

What do you hope Port Picture Co becomes known for? I want Port Picture Co to become known for photography that glorifies life. love taking something real, a person, a wedding day, a business, a home, and showing it at its absolute best without making it feel fake. want images to feel incredibly clear, luminous and alive.

That moment when everything comes together and know we’ve created something beautiful still gets me every time. portpictureco.com.au 0400 123 707

What does a “day on the job” look like for you? here really is no normal day, which is one of the things love most. ome days might have three completely different shoots, starting with a sunrise build, moving into a clinic or business

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Madalyne Torrisi Registered Nurse Flynn Daowon Registered Nurse Jess Mason Endorsed Enrolled Nurse transitioning to Registered Nurse

Jess Southwell Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner

Michelle Swan Clinical Nurse Specialist

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Hayley Matthews Clinical Nurse Specialist

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

PRIVATE HOSPITAL

Benjamin Smith Perioperative Services Manager

Ambily Mathew Registered Nurse

T

his Rising Stars article celebrates Jess Southwell, Michelle Swan, Hayley Matthews, Madalyne Torrisi, Ambily Mathew, Flynn Daowon, Jess Mason and Ben Smith, each of whom demonstrate the depth, warmth and capability of the nursing and clinical leadership workforce at Port Macquarie Private Hospital. Across their stories, common themes emerge: calm professionalism, kindness, reliability, curiosity, resilience under pressure and a genuine commitment to patientcentred care.

Their individual journeys also show how Port Macquarie Private Hospital and Ramsay Health Care support career progression through sponsorship, education, mentoring and opportunities to step into increasingly specialised or senior roles. From enrolled nurse to orthopaedic nurse practitioner, endorsed enrolled nurse to Bachelor of Nursing transitions, ward nursing to breast cancer care, rehabilitation leadership, acute care specialisation, after-hours team leadership, peri-operative services and surgical care practice, these stories of our staff demonstrate the many pathways a nurse can pursue a supported and rewarding career within our hospital environment at Port Macquarie Private Hospital.

At a time when nursing careers in hospitals are often portrayed negatively on social media, oira Finch, hief ecutive fficer, felt compelled to share a more balanced and authentic perspective. “Through showcasing our Rising Stars, I wanted to demonstrate that nursing continues to offer a highly rewarding, progressive and diverse career pathway, particularly when staff are supported through education, sponsorship, mentoring and meaningful opportunities to grow within their own hospital community.” ogether, our rising stars reflect a workplace culture that values learning, practical leadership, personal growth, inclusion and diversity. Their experiences highlight the variety of clinical, educational and leadership opportunities available to nurses at Port Macquarie Private Hospital, and the way this support ultimately strengthens patient care, team confidence and service capability for the local community.”

86-94 Lake Road, Port Macquarie portmacquarieprivate.com.au

02 6582 9800 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 93

Bianca

THE WITCHY NOOK

T

ll us a out our rol an how ou start th itch Nook? I'm the owner and founder of The Witchy Nook, which started from my love of crystals and herbs and my desire to create a space where people could explore these interests without feeling intimidated or like they needed to know what they were doing. What started small has grown into a retail store, workshops, services, our own handmade product ranges and now wholesale. It's been a lot of learning as I go, trusting my gut and figuring things out along the way.

What is the single best piece of rof ssional a ic ou ha ever received? You don't have to know everything before you start!

I think so many of us wait until we feel completely ready, but most of my biggest growth has come from saying yes, giving it a go and working out the details along the way. Sometimes the best thing you can do is back yourself and just start! hat accom lishm nt ar ou most proud of so far? Honestly, building The Witchy Nook into what it is today. Not just growing a business but creating a community

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The Crescent Gee Hassan

and a space where people feel comfortable walking through the door exactly as they are. Seeing something that started as an idea in my head become a real place, with a team behind me is pretty special.

Tell us about the one thing that s ou h a in into wor ach a The people! I love that no two days are the same, and you never quite know who is going to walk through the door or what conversation you are going to have.

Knowing we have created a space people genuinely enjoy being keeps me coming back.

What does being recognised as a isin tar m an to ou It means a lot because I often forget to stop and look back at how far I have actually come. When running a business, you usually focus on the next problem, idea or slightly chaotic to-do list. Being recognised as a Rising Star feels like a little reminder that all of those small steps, risks and long days have built something worth being proud of.

Shop 1/99 Horton Street th witch noo .com 0432 283 309

T

ell us about The Crescent. What makes it different?

The Crescent is the last major residential land release in Crescent Head.

Once these lots are gone, there’s no further subdivision planned in the village. So buyers are securing one of the last entry points into a supply-capped coastal market.

The Crescent has large lots with beautiful views; landscaped with walking paths, park, playground and BBQ area, and it’s just 900m to the beach.

How does the value proposition compare to other NSW beach towns? Crescent’s median house price sits around $1.25 million, less than half Byron Bay’s at about $2.6 million, and well below Lennox Head and Brunswick Heads. Buyers get the same lifestyle fundamentals beach, village, national park and large centres nearby, without the price premium. Given that supply here is effectively capped, longterm growth potential is strong.

What’s happening on site now? It’s alive! It’s a growing neighbourhood. Land is registered, roads and landscaping are complete, and builders are actively constructing homes,

which only adds to buyer confidence.

What opportunities exist for in stors s cificall Several land lots support dual occupancy for high short-term rental income or multigenerational fle ibility.

House and land packages are being developed with builders to give investors a straightforward entry point. ho s u in an wh o s that matter for investors? A genuine mix of downsizers, young families, Sydney and south-east QLD relocators, plus investors.

Owner-occupiers are great for community and long-term property values, and investors are creating more holiday rental choices which Crescent is crying out for. hat s our l ator itch to an on loo in to in st Large lots, a walk to the beach, limited supply, great value compared to other hotspots, and a neighbourhood already coming to life.

Call Gee on 0420 977 209 thecrescentestate.com.au

EMMA KNEIPP REGISTERED NURSE

BNURS, GRADCERT (COSMETICNURS), GRADCERT (PALLCARE). PMAC

T

ell us about your role and how long you have been in the industry?

I've been a registered nurse since 2020, and work in medical aesthetics at PMAC. My clinical background is the base for everything I do from consultations to treatments with safety and genuine care.

What is the single best piece of professional advice you have ever received?

Never stop learning. Healthcare, especially aesthetics evolve constantly, and the moment you think you know it all is the moment you fall behind. I make it a priority to keep growing with new techniques, degrees and new perspectives so my patients always get the best of me.

Tell us what one thing is that keeps you heading into work each day?

Honestly, it's the people. It is the amazing moments like a patient gaining their confidence. atient care has always been my passion, and aesthetics lets me combine that with helping people feel like themselves.

Tell us what a working day looks like for you?

Every day is different, consultations, treatments, education and training with the team, and staying on top of the latest developments in the industry. No two patients are the same, and I love the variety.

What does being recognised as a Rising Star mean to you?

It's a huge honour. It reflects my years of dedication to patient care, and it feels timely as I've got something exciting launching at PMAC very soon, so watch this space!

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Evie Pattison

W

hat was going through your head the moment your name was announced on stage?

Once the adjudicator announced fourth, third, and second place, I thought that I had missed my opportunity of receiving an award because my name hadn’t been called. This wasn’t a new situation for me because I had attended Nationals twice before, and had not placed. However last year I received the Dorothy Cowie Award which is an award where the adjudicator picks a dancer who shows great stage presence, musicality, and a true love for ballet. I was so shocked when the adjudicator announced my name for first place, was completely overwhelmed and so happy. I couldn’t believe it, it was a dream come true and I was so proud of what I had

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From local rehearsals in Port Macquarie to standing on top of the national podium, Evie Pattison’s journey to a National Ballet Title is a masterclass in grit, passion, and relentless determination.

Below, the rising ballerina shares what it felt like to hear her name called for first place, the advice that keeps her motivated through tough rehearsals, and her ultimate dream of playing Clara in The Nutcracker.

Miss Chenaye’s. It is an elegant ballet, and the choreography is well suited to my style and ability. I have had this routine for about three years now, which has allowed me to perfect and critique the piece. This routine is one that I will love and treasure forever, along with all of the memories behind it.

Preparing for a national competition takes immense discipline.What does a typical week of training look like for you?

just achieved.

How long have you been dancing for and who got you into dancing?

I have been dancing for eleven years and have fallen in love with it since I was three years old. y um took me to my first dance class when we moved to the Hunter Valley as a fun activity to do. We moved to Port Macquarie shortly after and I started to learn new routines and got opportunities to perform on stage with PMPA. I automatically knew that this was the sport for me. I loved the idea of getting to wear ballet tutus, performing for others, and getting to stand on stage and do what I love.

Can you tell us about the routine you performed for the national championship and what made that piece special to you?

My routine is to a song from Swan Lake and was choreographed by my dance teacher,

A typical week of training for me involves two ballet classes, three strength and conditioning classes, plus my other solo and group dance classes. Which is about 10 hours per week over three days in the studio, plus additional stretching and practice that I do at home. I also contribute to school dances.

In what ways have your teachers and teammates supported and shaped your journey to this national title?

Miss Stacey, Miss Ange, Mr Pete, Miss Chenaye’s, and all of the PMPA teachers and teammates (past and present) have been huge supporters and mentors since day one.

Their constant encouragement and guidance has helped me to believe in myself and has made me a more confident dancer. hen have felt like things were not going well or when I start to doubt myself, Miss Ange and my teachers always seem to know the right thing to say to get me back into a good frame

of mind. My teachers also provided me with many opportunities in lots of performances and provided additional classes in the lead up to the National Titles to help me prepare.

My best friends, Jaida and Belle and all my amazing team mates have been by my side through every single rehearsal, laugh, and nervous moment backstage. Sharing the stage with them makes every late-night practice completely worth it. I am so lucky to have a team that feels like family, and I couldn't have imagined my journey through to the National Title without their Looking back constant support, at the years I’ve and laughter. walked away empty When you’re not in the studio practicing, what are some of your other favourite things to do?

handed, all of the extra hours in the studio practicing the same dance, and being tired and sore, suddenly felt completely worth it.

When I’m not in the studio, I enjoy hanging out with friends, being active, travelling, shopping, and going on camping trips with my friends and family.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received that helps you stay motivated through tough rehearsal schedules?

I haven’t really ever struggled to stay motivated because I love to dance so much, and if I could dance more definitely would he best advice I have received is to have fun, enjoy what you do and not to put unreasonable expectations on yourself.

A piece of advice that I would give to someone is to never give up, because one day your hard work will pay off ooking back at the years I’ve walked away empty handed, all of the extra hours in the studio practicing the same dance, and being tired and sore, suddenly felt completely worth it. It's easy to stay motivated when you’re having fun, but also keeping your head up high through the times of doubt is what can matter the most.

Winning a national title is a major

milestone. Do you have an ultimate "dream role" or where would you like to take your dancing career?

that I can go over my routine before I have to go on stage.

I would love to join the Australian Ballet School and then travel the world as a full time professional ballet dancer. My dream role would be getting the opportunity to play Clara in the Nutcracker, or any main role with a professional ballet company.

ypically, have two pairs of ballet flats and two pairs of pointe shoes that I will alternate through. I have a good pair that is used for performances and the other is for practice.

Throughout the competition season, I might go through 6-8 pairs of pointe shoes. I go to Releve Dance in Taree for my pointe shoes, as mma the founder of eleve is ama ing .

o ou ha a s cific warm u ritual or a lucky item you bring backstage for good luck? t we have a specific warm-up that we do to the song et’s o , a routine taught by Mr Pete. Even when performing solos, I still like to warm-up to this song. Once I have warmed up, I like to stretch for 5-10 minutes and then go over the routine that I am practicing on that day. I don't really have a lucky item, but I do have a collection of badges that I have received from previous dance competitions which I bring along in my dance bag.

What track is on repeat in your headphones right before you step out under the lights?

I personally like listening to the song that I am about to perform right before I go on stage, so

Roughly how many pairs of ballet shoes do you burn through in a typical competition year?

hat is our ultimat o to n r on major competition days?

foo

My ultimate go-to food on a competition day is vegemite on toast. Then I just snack on fruit and lollies throughout the day, as I don't like to eat much before I perform.

If you could spend a day training with any professional dancer in the world, who would it be?

I would love to spend a day training with either laudia ean, or ucinda unn. hese two dancers are both idols of mine and are both e ceptional ballerinas that definitely look up to, and I would love to have the opportunity to train with them have been lucky enough to do a class with ucinda unn previously.

Thanks Evie GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 97

When a sudden medical setback redirected 15-yearold athletic standout James from elite track pathways into months of recovery and uncertainty, HIS FAMILY TRANSFORMED THEIR HARDEST CHAPTER INTO A MOVEMENT OF RESILIENCE. BASED OUT OF PORT MACQUARIE, SERENITY LIFTS IS MORE THAN JUST ACTIVEWEAR, IT'S A TESTAMENT TO FINDING FAITH, FOCUS, AND PURPOSE beyond physical weights, proving that your storm can truly become your story.

98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

lease introduce yourselves to our readers?

Serenity Lifts is a Port Macquarie-based lifestyle and apparel brand that grew from a deeply personal chapter in our family’s life.

I’m a parent to James and Samuel. Family and faith have always been central to us. With James’ background in athletics and Samuel’s love for basketball, sport and an active lifestyle naturally defined our household. ut erenity Lifts has grown to mean much more than the gym.

James and I developed the brand after a period that completely altered his trajectory as a young athlete. It taught us that strength isn’t just about performance or achievements; sometimes it’s how you respond when life doesn’t go to plan. Faith helped us believe purpose remained ahead without carrying bitterness into the next chapter.

That inspired our core message: YOUR STORM = YOUR STORY. We want Serenity Lifts to speak to everyone, whether you're recovering from injury, a teenager building confidence, a parent rebuilding life, or someone taking their first steps towards a healthier tomorrow.

Can you share a bit about James’ athletic background prior to December 2024?

Athletics was central to James’ life. He competed at a high level in high jump and long jump, placing second in both at the 2024 NSW All Schools Championships before advancing to nationals. Setting records at Little Athletics without formal coaching, he realised structured training could take him even further.

At 15, he was dedicated to nutrition, training, and elite pathways toward Commonwealth and Olympic competition. Everyday life revolved around recovery and personal bests.

The sudden shift from athletic tracks to hospitals, injections, and uncertainty was an

enormous shock.

Going from elite athletic aspirations to facing hospitals, needles and medication is a massive hurdle for a 15-year-old. How i am s fin th str n th to na i at those early days of recovery?

There wasn’t one dramatic moment where everything clicked; there were good days and difficult days. e learned strength doesn’t always look like adding weight to the bar. Suddenly, strength meant enduring appointments, accepting paced recovery, eating well, or simply doing something constructive.

The gym remained a positive anchor. James expanded his vision toward becoming one of Australia’s youngest F ro r Olympians. Mentored

by Anton Ratushnyi and inspired by Chris umstead um , Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike Mentzer, and Lee Priest, he built a broader understanding of fitness and muscle development.

pursue athletics as before, but remained connected to gym culture, fashion, and design. Missing training led to talks about creating pump covers and tuff sweats designed for his 6’4” frame. Sketching became therapeutic, and an early drawing inspired by the strength of an eagle and speed of a peregrine falcon evolved into our logo, symbolising rising above defining circumstances.

What began as creating gear for James and his friends grew into a larger question: Could something created during our hardest period help someone ...sometimes else through theirs? it’s how you That transformed respond when life Serenity Lifts into more doesn’t go to plan. than clothing.

FAITH HELPED US BELIEVE PURPOSE REMAINED AHEAD WITHOUT CARRYING BITTERNESS INTO THE NEXT CHAPTER. That inspired our core message: YOUR STORM = YOUR STORY.

A quote at World Gym Port Macquarie resonated deeply: "There are no wounds iron can’t heal." While medical support is vital, movement and routine provide focus when life feels uncertain. Australian health research also confirms physical activity’s role in mental wellbeing. We shifted from asking "Why did this happen?" to "What can we build from here?"

When did the concept for Serenity Lifts first ta sha urin r co r an what was the initial vision behind launching a gym apparel brand?

The idea developed naturally. James couldn’t

The name Serenity Lifts holds deep meaning. What does “Serenity” represent to you when facing chaos or adversity, and what does “Lifts” mean beyond physical weights?

Serenity isn’t external calm it’s finding enough internal calm to decide your next move. We can’t control the storm, but we choose what we carry forward. That is YOUR STORM = YOUR STORY, the storm is part of your story, not the ending.

"Lifts" extends far beyond weights: People lift people.

Exercise lifts mood.

Faith lifts through uncertainty. oaches lift confidence.

Friends lift by checking in.

Community lifts when life gets tough.

Continued over...

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You talk about discovering that real strength is found in faith, focus and discipline. How are these core values woven into the identity of the brand?

These core values sit at our centre: Faith is believing purpose lies ahead.

Focus is directing energy toward what you can influence.

Discipline is showing up when motivation fades.

Strength also includes grace - learning from hardship without growing bitter. Our motto, REP. REST. REPEAT., captures this. Rest isn't weakness; it’s essential for physical and mental recovery. h n i ou officiall launch an what were those early days of getting Serenity Lifts off the ground like?

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We launched online in August 2026 after months of product development, branding, and establishing our core message.

As an e-commerce business based in Port Macquarie, we focus on local community, slow growth, and regional collaboration.

We’ve loved working with local creatives, attending Business Port Macquarie events, and participating in initiatives like Luminosity at the Glasshouse. We advocate strongly for connection between physical stores, e-commerce brands, sports organisations, and community groups.

Serenity Lifts is built on the idea that “your setbacks are part of your story, not the end of it.” What message do you hope to send to others currently walking through their own hurdles or health battles?

ou don’t need everything figured out today, and resilience doesn't mean pretending things are okay. Resilience is often ordinary: getting up, attending an appointment, taking a walk, eating properly, or trying again after a setback.

A hurdle changes your direction, but it doesn't diminish what you're capable of becoming.

How important is sustainability to Serenity Lifts?

Sustainability is about practical choices rather than buzzwords. Our hoodies use recycled polyester equivalent to roughly eight plastic bottles per garment, woven into a heavyweight product built for comfort and durability.

Attending Luminosity reinforced this mindset.

Hearing Ronni Kahn AO (OzHarvest) and Nik arry obinson ood iti ens who refined

recycled eyewear after 2,500 attempts) proved that meaningful ideas require persistence, continuous brainstorming, and practical solutions.

What kind of apparel and gear does Serenity Lifts offer, and what makes these pieces special for someone stepping into th m or startin th ir fitn ss ourn We focus on premium hoodies and pants designed for training and daily life under the banner BETWEEN SETS. BEYOND THEM. A favourite is our Still Stone pump-cover hoodie. Soft, warm, and comfortable, it features a generous hood and deep kangaroo pockets, creating a quiet space for focus before a set, while seamlessly transitioning into casual everyday wear. ho is th r nit ifts athl t h n som on uts on a i c of our a ar l how o ou want th m to f l There isn't one type of athlete. It ranges from to us. Engaging with local creatives and James training or Samuel playing basketball events continually reinforces that a business to first-time gym goers, parkrun runners, can create quality products while inspiring a breakwall walkers, or positive social impact. anyone overcoming Why are movement, life challenges. physical strength and Strength doesn't Sustainability is mental strength so have a specific shape, about practical closely connected to age, or ability. We choices rather r nit ifts want wearers to than buzzwords.

Weights are symbolic: feel comfortable, OUR HOODIES adding plates takes confident, and uietly USE RECYCLED effort, just like rebuilding strong.

POLYESTER confidence or recovering EQUIVALENT TO a ou ha from adversity. Australian ROUGHLY EIGHT any memorable Institute of Health PLASTIC BOTTLES interactions or and Welfare research PER GARMENT, feedback from underscores that physical woven into a people in the activity supports mental heavyweight product communit who health. Movement built for comfort and have been inspired provides routine, focus, durability. our stor and connection - inviting and the brand’s someone to train or walk m ssa is another way of saying, Conversations about "You're not doing today our clothing often turn into shared life stories alone." about injury, health struggles, or unexpected s ou continu to r uil an row setbacks. Those connections mean everything

what’s on the horizon for both James’ athl tic ourn an th futur of r nit ifts James continues rebuilding with an expanded definition of success. For erenity ifts, apparel is just the beginning of a broader lifestyle brand encompassing movement, recovery, nutrition, mindset, and community.

We’re exploring local collaborations, such as a lifting belt with a local leather maker through the Macleay Valley Business Chamber, charity gym challenges, and community partnerships around events like IRONMAN and parkrun. We keep asking: "What else can we create that makes a positive difference?" h r can our r a follow our ourn on r nit ifts a

rs i w th ran an t th ir han s ar l

Visit our online store and follow us on nstagram serenity lifts. erenity ifts started with our story in Port Macquarie, but we hope you see your story in it too.

YOUR STORM = YOUR STORY. REP. REST. REPEAT. Thanks.

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DENTAL AESTHETICS

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What is it? Who does it serve? How can it serve me?

hen we hear the words dental aesthetics, it’s easy to think of whitening, veneers and creating a more attractive smile.

This is an area of dentistry of particular interest to Dr Kal Fernandez.

comfortable, functions well and is designed with longevity in mind.

Kal has a special interest in the rehabilitation of worn, broken and ageing smiles, particularly those affected by grinding, clenching and years of everyday wear.

Who can dental aesthetics serve?

But modern dental aesthetics can be much more than that.

After graduating from the University of Melbourne, Kal furthered his training in aesthetics at King College London, Ape Aesthetics in the USA and courses in Australia.

At its best, it brings together health, function, proportion and appearance, looking not only at how individual teeth look, but at how your teeth, bite and smile work together.

Broken, Chipped or Missing Teeth?

Consider two people who come in with a chipped front tooth.

That background shapes the way he approaches a damaged or changing smile.

Rather than simply repairing one chipped or broken tooth at a time, Kal looks at the smile as a whole.

Both teeth can be repaired. Both may look great when they leave.

What’s causing the wear?

But one person may simply have chipped an otherwise healthy tooth. The other may have been grinding, clenching or slowly wearing their teeth down for years and that chip is simply the first thing they’ve noticed.

Has the bite changed or collapsed?

Repair the chip without understanding why it broke, and the underlying problem is still there.

That’s the bigger picture.

Grinding, clenching, erosion, a heavy bite, tooth loss and years of wear can change more than the appearance of your smile.

They can affect how your teeth come together, how you bite and function, the height and proportion of your teeth, and in more advanced cases, even your facial profile.

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How much tooth structure has been lost?

And how can we rebuild what has been lost?

For some patients with significant wear, treatment may involve restoring the vertical dimension, rebuilding lost tooth height and creating a bite that functions properly again.

And this is where restorative dentistry can become transformative dentistry.

Using modern digital planning and treatments such as crowns, veneers, bridges or implants where appropriate, damaged and worn teeth can be rebuilt while considering their shape, proportion, function and appearance together.

The goal isn’t to create a generic “perfect smile”.

It’s about restoring what has been lost and creating a smile that looks natural, feels

It may be someone who has worn their teeth down over many years.

Someone with chipped, broken or missing teeth.

Someone whose bite and smile have gradually changed.

Someone who wants to enhance the appearance of their smile, where treatments such as veneers may be used to improve the shape, proportion, colour or symmetry of the teeth.

Or simply someone who looks in the mirror and feels their smile no longer reflects them.

Dental aesthetics isn’t necessarily about changing who you are.

Sometimes, it’s about giving back what time, wear or damage has taken away.

At Sundial, we believe good dentistry isn’t simply about fi ing the tooth that’s broken today.

Sometimes it’s about understanding why it ro in th first lac an loo in at th bigger picture.

Good dentistry changes smiles.

Great dentistry changes how you feel.

Sundial Your Smile.

6583 3533 | 6585 2015 Follow Dr Kal Fernandez’s four-part Dental Aesthetics series as we explore worn teeth, changing bites and what modern dentistry can do for your smile, or discover the full story on our website.

focus_contributor.

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Playing it safe can still cost you

omen in NSW retire with 26% less super than men. Like many of my clients, you might be trying to make up the gap by playing it safe with your investments and superannuation choices.

This month, here's what you Need2Know if you’re wondering ‘have I left it too late to get myself in a better position?’. The short answer is, no you haven’t.

Why women's super balances are lower Women aged 60 to 64 hold a median super balance of $163,218. For men, it's $219,773, according to ASFA. That’s not because women have been careless with their money. It comes down to the pay gap, the years out of the workforce caring for children or ageing parents, and part-time work that made the rest of family life possible.

Our super system was built around an unbroken full-time career, and that doesn’t reflect the reality of many women.

URSULA BOORMAN

FINANCIAL PLANNER, DIRECT ADVISERS

going straight to the ATO.

Four things you can do yourself

If you've been putting money away for your future instead of spending it on yourself today, that’s great. But understanding the retirement system in ustralia and making sure it works for you is critical when you are in catch up mode or you are building as quickly as you can.

1. Find every account. Log into myGov, link the ATO, and look for lost or duplicate super. Your existing super fund may also be able to help you find other accounts.

Super is just a tax environment Superannuation isn't an investment. It's a tax environment, with a special set of rules about how money goes in, how it comes out, and how it s ta ed in between. he ta benefits can be enormous, while you are working and saving and when you retire.

The risk isn't in the super. It's in whatever you choose to hold inside it, and that's your call. You can be as cautious or as growth-focused as you like. If term deposits help you sleep at night, you can hold one inside your super fund. It’s the same type of investment, with a very different tax treatment.

Several of my clients this year had no idea that was even possible.

Saving outside super comes with a tax bill

Check you can still start an income stream

I see women saving hard and saving safely. Often the money goes into a term deposit where she can watch it build, because that feels secure.

If you're considering a term deposit inside super, ask your fund or adviser this first an start an income stream when I'm eligible, or do I have to wait for the term deposit to mature?’ Some funds make you wait, which can hold things up at exactly the wrong moment.

But every year the tax return arrives and there's a bill on the interest. Then another one. The savings are doing their job, and a slice of them is

NEED2 KNOW with

. heck where you re heading. he retirement planner at moneysmart.gov.au is a government site, so nobody is trying to sell you anything. . now your limits. his financial year you can contribute $32,500 before tax. If your total super balance is under $500,000, you may be able to add unused amounts from up to five earlier years on top. . heck the co-contribution. f your income is under $49,293 and you make an after-tax contribution, the government may add up to $500 to your super. It tapers out at $64,293.

I’ve said before that 60 to 75 is the golden age for super, and I mean it. We can't control what markets do. What we can control is how well we understand the rules, and how hard we make them work for us.

What suits one woman won't suit another. My job is to help you understand your options, not to decide for you or tell you what to do. Of everything you can control between now and retirement, understanding how super is taxed will give you the best return on your time. o find out how we can help secure your financial future, visit directadvisers.com.au or call 02 6583 7588.

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focus_contributor.

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

Big ideas, bold adventures and absolutely no limits! Zion is proof that being based in Port Macquarie doesn’t mean thinking small. From robotics and innovation in Tokyo to sailing the high seas, climbing Mt Gower and raising $20,000 on a unicycle, he’s embraced every opportunity with curiosity and courage.

Now, his latest adventure is happening right here at home, helping bring the Wackadoo Electric Vehicle Project to life.

Meet a young innovator showing us just how far across the globe a passion for STEM, collaboration and adventure can take you!

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Z

Zion

ion, your latest adventure is The Wackadoos Electrifying utur s ro ct t ll us all about it! What are you building, who’s involved and what’s the big goal?

The Wackadoos F24 electric vehicle racing team, a year-long pro ect led by loyd odson and funded by the incent Fairfa Family Foundation FFF , is all about getting young people involved in . ur challenge is to design and build single-seater electric racing vehicles to compete in Greenpower ustralia events. he pro ect kicked off this year thanks to funding from the FFF’s acking the Future program. e meet every onday afternoon at he ature chool, bringing together young people from different schools and educational settings across ort ac uarie to take part in this incredible ourney.

Being a part of The Wackadoos is as much about people as it is about building an l ctric hicl . ho ar th m ntors an m nt s hin th ro ct how o ou all work together, and what have you achieved so far? What’s next? e have two teams running concurrently the F team, for - -year-olds, is building a kit car, while the F team, for - -yearolds, is designing and building an electric race car from scratch. loyd odson oversees both teams and mentors the F group, where also help with media, marketing and sponsorship, even though ’m not much older than the team members. uke guilar is the main mentor for F , guiding us through the technical side of

the build. lthough we have separate teams, we share ideas and help each other because we’re all there to learn. o far, we’ve begun designing and building the cars. e t, we’ll complete and test them before our first race at the reen ydney eat, followed by the ational Finals in asmania in ecember.

You’ve shared some pretty epic adventures with Lloyd Godson and Luke Aguilar, and now you’re Wackadoos together! What do ou lo a out wor in with lo an Luke? How do they challenge you to think bigger, have a go and push beyond what you thought was possible? orking with loyd and uke is ama ing because there are no bad uestions. hey’re both focused on the process rather than ust the result, which gives me the confidence to e plore ideas and have a go, knowing they’re there when need support. his has helped me achieve some of my proudest learning moments. also took part in loyd and uke’s udicrous ab asterclass at uminosity this year, where they pushed us to think creatively through fun, fast-paced science challenges.

The Wackadoos might be the adventure right now, but it follows som incr i l ri nc s ou r s nt a rint rosth tic han ro ct in o o h l rais throu h a hr unic cl fun rais r clim t ow r on or ow slan sail a oar in war oun from Newcastle to Eden, and recently joined us at uminosit Youth Summit. What have those adventures taught you about

yourself that you’re bringing to The Wackadoos?

I didn’t know how to 3D-print a prosthetic hand before we made one, or whether I could help raise $20,000, but I gave both a shot. I even ended up travelling in Japan with Mat Bowtell, CEO of the Australian charity Free 3D Hands, who came to watch our presentation at the Be the Change Celebration in Tokyo.

Each of these adventures has helped me grow and shown me that life is full of possibilities if I’m willing to give things a go. I didn’t know how to 3D-print a prosthetic hand before we made one, or whether I could help raise $20,000, but I gave both a shot. I even ended up travelling in Japan with Mat Bowtell, CEO of the Australian charity Free 3D Hands, who came to watch our presentation at the Be the Change Celebration in Tokyo. I’ve also learnt that when I do have e perience or confidence in something, can use that strength to support others, like I did while climbing Mt Gower. That’s the mindset I’ve brought to The Wackadoos. I don’t know how to build an electric race car yet, but I’m showing up, sharing the strengths I do have and learning as go.

Building an electric vehicle from the ground up sounds equal parts chall n in an s riousl fun hat s n our fa ourit ac a oos mom nt

so far? What have you learnt, what’s surprised you, and what are you most excited to tackle n t

My favourite moment as a mentor was seeing our National Science Week community showcase at the Port Macquarie Observatory come together successfully. I felt proud helping my friends build the confidence to present in front of more than 70 people. As a member of the F24+ team, my favourite part is when we all get into a flow state, focused on our different jobs and being productive, while still joking around and having a great time. I’ve learnt how well we can work together, and I’m excited for our upcoming races, where we’ll test the car in a completely new environment, learn from its performance and make modifications.

You’re based right here in Port Macquarie, but your learning and adventures are ta in ou far on our r ion. hat

does it mean to have access to th s

lo all conn ct

o

ortuniti s

and incredible mentors while growing up regionally, and when The Wackadoos cross s that finish lin ou thin

what woul ma

i it

Growing up regionally can often mean fewer opportunities than in a major city, but it also creates a powerful sense of community. I have mentors in all aspects of my life, including Luke and his incredible STEM knowledge, my youth group leaders at Camden Haven Anglican Church, and my teachers at The Nature School, including Lloyd. He has guided me through many journeys, including an expedition to Lord Howe Island, the Design for Change Youth Summit in Japan and The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Having these people connect me with opportunities beyond our region has shown me what’s possible. When our car crosses the finish line, ’ll know we did it because we turned an idea into something real by saying yes and ust giving things a go.

Thanks Zion and all the best with the race.

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Morgans C E L E B R AT I N G

30 YEARS

For 30 years, Morgans Port Macquarie has been helping individuals, families and businesses achieve their financial goals while building trusted relationships throughout the region. As the team celebrates this significant milestone, we look back on the journey so far and explore what’s next.

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hat does celebrating 30 years in business mean to the Morgans Port Macquarie team?

It reinforces our commitment to excellence.

We marked the occasion in June with a celebration at the Glasshouse, where almost 300 guests including clients and professional partners oined us to reflect on our past, and our future. Our Managing Director, Craig Watson, remarked that “seeing clients we first met in the s in that room, sitting alongside their adult children who are now clients in their own right, says everything about what this milestone means to us”.

What has been the key to your success over the past three decades?

Two principles have remained constant

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for us. he first is keeping the client at the centre of every decision we make. The second is a clear sense of why we exist, which is to help people get the most out of life. Financial strategy, investment advice, and superannuation are what we do, but helping a family put their children through university, retire comfortably, buy the caravan, or simply stop worrying about money is why we do it. Markets will always be volatile, and governments will always change the rules, but in 30 years neither of those commitments have moved.

How has Morgans evolved to meet the changing needs of clients? hen we opened in , there was no Google; superannuation was in its infancy, and the All Ordinaries sat at around 2,000 points. Since then, we have guided clients through the Tech boom and bust, a decade-

long mining boom, the Global Financial risis, and a pandemic. ver the past years we have deliberately grown from a traditional stockbroking business into one of Australia's leading regional holistic wealth management firms. From building genuine depth in retirement and superannuation strategy to self-managed super funds, aged care, estate and intergenerational planning, and portfolio management, all supported by a disciplined investment process.

What makes your team unique?

Scale and culture, together. Port Macquarie is a regional city, yet we have grown into one of Australia's largest and most e perienced regional financial advice teams, and the largest organs office outside the capital cities with advisers and several specialist support staff. We also draw on an enviable network of local specialists in

law, accounting, real estate and Our focus is government services, any single adviser or continuity. At plus the Morgans career. Advice given the same time, we network, with its at 45 still needs to continue to invest in award-winning make sense at 75, and our people, technology research team and increasingly we are and advice capabilities technical specialists. helping families plan so we can help clients What that means how wealth passes to navigate increasingly for a client is the the next generation complex financial depth and technical in the most effective decisions with capability of a city way, whether that confidence. firm, delivered by means minimizing tax, people who live protecting assets or locally and who they making sure they reach see at the shops on a Saturday morning. the intended beneficiaries. hat work cannot Tell us about some of the new advisers who have recently joined the team.

We are delighted to welcome Dominique Jackson-Hope and Hannah Freeman to the team as Financial Advisers. Dominique joins us from Aware Super, where she spent nine years. Both Dominique and Hannah bring a genuine passion for building long-term relationships and helping clients achieve their goals. We are also growing our own advisers.

Our four-phase Adviser Pathway Program launches careers in financial services right here in Port Macquarie, with four candidates currently in the program and a commitment to bringing another four through every year.

Why is building strong, long-term client relationships so important to Morgans?

Because the promise we make to our clients is a multi-decade one and it is bigger than

be done in a single transaction. It is built by being there through the good years and the difficult ones, and by planning our own succession so the relationship outlasts any one of us.

How important is giving back to the wider Port Macquarie community?

It is central to who we are. We continue to support several local sporting clubs including the Pirates Rugby Club, Port Macquarie Golf Club, and the Lake Cathie Football Club, and we support the Hastings Education Fund. We are members of local networks including Business PMQ and the Hastings Business Women’s Network. We also donate to organisations like Liberty Domestic & Family iolence pecialist ervices. he wider Morgans Financial Limited, which is Australia’s largest full-service stockbroking

and wealth management company, is committed to regional Australia at a time when many competitors retreated to the capital cities.

What's next for Morgans Port Macquarie as you look to the future?

Markets are becoming more complex; legislation continues to change, and artificial intelligence will reshape parts of our industry faster than any of us expect. Our focus is continuity. At the same time, we continue to invest in our people, technology and advice capabilities so we can help clients navigate increasingly comple financial decisions with confidence. e are developing the next generation of advisers, deepening relationships with our clients' families, and making sure this practice is here for the next 30 years. We never set out to be the biggest - we set out to be the best we can be for our clients, and that will not change.

How can we get in touch?

Visit us at cnr Short Street and Barracks Lane, Port Macquarie, call 02 6583 1735, email portmacquarie@morgans.com.au or go to morgans.com.au/portmacquarie.

Morgans Financial Limited | ABN 49 010 669 726 | AFSL 235410 |

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Bec Farnsworth

D I R E C T O R

F A R N S W O R T H

ndustry Finance

How long have you lived/worked in Port Macquarie?

I was born in Port Macquarie and have lived here for pretty much all of my life. our

r first o

Christmas casual at Michael Hill Jeweller Go-to morning coffee (or tea) order?

Oat Flat White Favourite local spot to unwind on the weekend?

Nobbys Beach with the kids and the dog um u our usin ss hiloso h in thr words?

Educate, Empower & Grow Port Macquarie has a wonderful community an is on of th st lac s to wor an li . hat o ou lo most a out o ratin a usin ss in this r ion The people. The genuine relationships I get to build, where people value trust and supporting local businesses. As a mortgage broker, it’s incredibly rewarding to help local families achieve their home ownership goals and then continue to see them around town, whether it’s at school events, the beach or at a local cafe.

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F I N A N C I A L

At the end of a long week, what is the most r war in art of our o that ma s all th hard work worth it?

Knowing we’ve helped someone take a step towards a goal that often seemed out of reach. Whether it’s a first home, a growing family needing more space or helping someone regain financial confidence, being trusted to guide people through such an important milestone is something I never take for granted. Seeing the excitement on settlement day makes every late night and busy week worthwhile. r in ustr has its s cr ts or misconc tions.

What is one thing people often get wrong a out what ou o an what s th r alit One of the biggest misconceptions is that mortgage brokers simply find the lowest interest rate. hile getting a competitive rate is important, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Our role is to understand our clients’ goals, compare hundreds of loan options and recommend a solution that’s suitable for each client’s individual circumstances.

If you could take anyone in the world out to inn r who woul it an wh My future self in 20 years. I’d love to know what decisions mattered most, what I should worry less about and whether I stayed true to the values that are important to me today. I think that perspective would be invaluable. han s

c.

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The Face

Business Behind e

Why AI is damaging your brand

S

omewhere on your feed this week, you've probably scrolled past a business photo that wasn't a photo at all. A smiling team that doesn't exist quite as they are depicted. A founder with impossibly smooth skin and teeth so white they glow. Yet another AI business poster…yawn.

AI-generated imagery has arrived in small business marketing, and it's arrived fast.

As a photographer, you might expect me to say AI is the enemy. It isn't, and I'd be a hypocrite if I pretended otherwise. AI has become one of the most useful assistants in my editing workflow.

When a family books a session at Town Beach, they don't want strangers wandering through the background of their photos, and AI tools let me tidy those distractions away in minutes rather than hours. It removes a stray towel, an exit sign, a photobombing puppy. Used this way, AI serves the real moment. The family in the frame is still the family who stood on that sand, laughing at that joke, on that afternoon.

Your images answer that question before your words get a chance to. When a potential client lands on your website or your Instagram, they're looking for you. Your actual face. Your workspace with its slightly cluttered desk. The way you genuinely look when you're doing the thing you love.

An AI-generated image can't answer that question, because there's no one behind it. And increasingly, people can tell. We've all developed a radar for it, the too-perfect lighting, the hands that don't quite make sense, the sheen that sits somewhere between a filter and a dream.

When a customer spots it, the feeling isn't “how clever”, it's a small withdrawal from the trust account. If the face of the business isn't real, what else on this page isn't? For a small business, where trust is the entire foundation, that's an expensive question to plant in someone's mind.

But there's a line, and I think it matters enormously where a business chooses to draw it. Using AI to polish a real photograph is one thing. Using AI to generate the photograph, to invent the face of your business, that is something else entirely.

There's a second cost, and it's one I feel personally. AI doesn't just generate people, it generates its idea of perfect people. Ask it to create a portrait and it will hand you someone a decade younger than you, with perfect skin and dead-straight, blinding-white teeth. Even the tools that “enhance” real photos nudge us toward the same mould: smoother, slimmer.. the list goes on.

Here's the thing about small business, especially in a community like ours: people don't really buy from businesses. They buy from people. Before someone books a photographer, a hairdresser, a builder or a bookkeeper, they're asking the same question, “who am I going to be dealing with?”

I've photographed hundreds of local faces, brides and grooms, newborn parents running on no sleep, women launching businesses at their kitchen tables. Almost every single one of them arrives at a session nervous about how they'll look or how they should stand. My job, before

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I ever pick up the camera, is to help them feel comfortable being exactly who they are. So it worries me to watch technology set a beauty standard no human being can meet, and that’s because it was never human to begin with.

When we compare ourselves to AI's “perfect,” we lose every time, and when businesses put those impossible faces forward as the norm, we're all quietly told our real faces aren't good enough. I don't believe that, and I don't think your clients do either.

The irony is that authenticity has never been a stronger business asset than it is right now. s feeds fill up with synthetic imagery, a real photograph of a real person is becoming the standout. The laugh lines, the crooked tooth, the hair that wouldn't cooperate that morning, these aren t flaws to be generated away. hey re proof of life. They're the reason someone looks at your page and thinks, I could work with her.

So no, I'm not asking anyone to swear off AI. Use it to save time. Use it to tidy backgrounds and streamline your admin, I certainly do. But when it comes to the face of your business, the images that tell people who you are, let them be true and real. Show up as yourself, in your own light, at whatever age and with whatever teeth you actually have.

Because your clients aren't looking for perfect.

They're looking for you, they want to connect with you - and that's one thing AI will never be able to generate.

Lucy Humphries (she/her/hers) lucyhumphriesphotography.com 0488157919

LIFE-CHANGING SKILLS, LASTING IMPACT

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A new skill can change the course of a life.

hat’s the message behind National Skills Week 2026, celebrating the life-changing impact of vocational education and training and the opportunities it creates for individuals, businesses and communities.

When people build skills, communities grow stronger. Businesses gain capable workers, industries can meet workforce demand, and individuals gain the confidence and practical skills to pursue their goals.

Enterprise & Training Company (ETC), an award-winning Registered Training Organisation (RTO 6998) based in Port Macquarie, sees this impact every day. ETC works with people at different stages of their lives and careers – from school leavers exploring their options to people re-entering the workforce, changing careers or building new skills.

Training is about more than gaining a

ualification. t can provide direction, confidence and practical skills that lead to meaningful employment. For employers, training can help address skills gaps, develop existing staff and build a workforce equipped for the future. mportantly, there is no one-si e-fits-all pathway. ETC recognises that everyone’s circumstances, goals and learning journey are different. That’s why training is designed to be fle ible, supportive and delivered at a pace that works for the individual.

ETC’s point of difference is offering more than training alone. By connecting support, skills and employment opportunities, the organisation helps people progress at every stage – from building confidence and foundation skills through to training and employment outcomes.

ETC also works with employers to strengthen workforce capability and create pathways into employment.

National Skills Week is a reminder that opportunities don’t always begin with a job offer or promotion. Sometimes they start with learning a new skill, gaining confidence or simply taking the first step towards something bigger.

Whatever your goal, building skills today can create opportunities for tomorrow.

This National Skills Week, explore what’s possible. Whether you’re starting your career, upskilling, changing direction or investing in your workforce, ETC can help ou fin th ri ht athwa . isit www. etcltd.com.au/national-skills-week or call 1800 007 400 to learn more.

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focus_contributor.

legal with NICK LAWTON

Death and Taxes

PRIEST LEGAL

Death and Taxes - they are unavoidable, and it gets complicated when they coincide. We have received a number of enquiries recently about tax changes introduced in the 2026 Budget, and the introduction of “death taxes” as frequently reported in the media. We can confirm that no direct taxes have been introduced, but the tax treatment of deceased estates can be complex and should form part of your estate planning.

A

ustralia does not have an inheritance tax or an estate tax. Unlike the UK or the US, no one hands the government a slice of an estate because someone died and left assets behind. This is a common source of confusion, because many Australians assume a “death tax” exists. It doesn’t, but that doesn’t mean inheriting assets in Australia is tax-free. Several taxes can still apply, depending on what is inherited, from whom, and how it is eventually dealt with. Superannuation is where most of the real tax exposure sits, so it deserves close attention alongside the general rules for deceased estates.

How Deceased Estates Are Taxed When a person dies, their assets and liabilities pass into their “deceased estate,” administered by an executor (if there’s a will) or an administrator (if there isn’t). The estate itself is treated as a separate taxpayer for a period, and the e ecutor is responsible for finalising the deceased’s ta affairs, including lodging a final tax return covering the period up to the date of death, and potentially trust tax returns for the estate while assets are being administered.

The main tax that touches most estates is

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capital gains tax (CGT). When someone dies, CGT is not triggered at that time, assets simply pass to the estate or beneficiaries at their existing cost base, and any capital gain or loss is deferred until the asset is eventually sold. If a CGT asset, such as an investment property or share portfolio, is sold by the estate a tax liability may be triggered. Alternatively, beneficiaries receiving assets from an estate should consider the tax liabilities. eneficiaries who simply receive cash, personal assets, or property without immediately selling generally don’t pay tax on the act of inheriting itself. Tax tends to arise later when an inherited asset is sold or when it generates income (such as rent or dividends), which then needs to be declared in the beneficiary’s own ta return.

Superannuation: The Real Tax Trap Superannuation is treated differently because it isn’t automatically part of a deceased estate. Super is held in trust by a fund, and what happens to it after death depends on whether binding or non-binding death benefit nominations have been put in place, or the trustee’s discretion.

The tax treatment hinges on whether the recipient is a dependant for tax purposes. This includes a spouse, de facto partner, a child

under 18, someone in an interdependency relationship, or a person who was financially dependent on the deceased and it is generally tax free. However it changes for nondependants which includes adult, financially independent children. When paid to a non-dependant it must be taken as a lump sum, and while the tax treatment can be complicated, a rate of 15%-30% will apply to different components. This is often called the “super death tax,” and it catches many families off guard. There are some strategies to manage this exposure during a person’s lifetime, which can reduce the taxable component of a super balance before death, lowering the tax ultimately paid by non-dependent beneficiaries.

The Bottom Line Anyone drafting a will, nominating superannuation beneficiaries, or administering an estate should get advice tailored to their specific assets and family situation.

At Priest Legal we are happy to collaborate with your financial advisors to ensure your estate planning meets your needs.

Individual circumstances vary, and readers shoul consult a ualifi accountant ta agent, or estate planning lawyer before making decisions.

YOUR PROPERTY HAS

focus_contributor.

GONE UP IN VALUE

SO, WHAT CAN YOU ACTUALLY DO WITH THE EQUITY?

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or many homeowners on the Mid North Coast, one of the biggest changes to their financial position over the past few years hasn't come from earning more or saving harder it has been the increasing value of their home. ou might have purchased your property for , and now believe it s worth , . n paper, that s a significant increase in wealth, but what does that actually mean, and can you use it he answer comes down to equity.

What is equity? uity is the difference between the value of your property and the amount you owe on your home loan. For e ample, if your home is worth , and your mortgage balance is , , you have appro imately , in e uity. hat doesn t necessarily mean you can borrow , . enders generally want you to retain a certain amount of e uity in the property and how much you can access will depend on things like the lender, your financial position, the purpose of the funds and the loan-to-value ratio . ou still need to be able to demonstrate that you can afford the additional repayments under the lender s servicing re uirements.

So, what can you use equity for? here are several reasons homeowners may consider accessing e uity.

with BEC FARNSWORTH FA R N SWO R T H F I N A N C I A L

Renovating your home ather than selling and buying again, you may decide to use some of your e uity to renovate or e tend your e isting home with a new kitchen, adding a bedroom, a pool or completing a larger renovation. oewver, it s worth understanding whether the proposed work re uires a straightforward loan increase or whether the lender will treat it as construction lending where the re uirements can be uite different.

e uity to consolidate higher-interest debts such as personal loans or credit cards. his may reduce the interest rate applying to those debts and improve monthly cash flow, but there s an important catch. oving a fiveyear personal loan into a -year home loan could mean paying the debt off over a much longer period. lower interest rate doesn t automatically mean a lower total cost. ebt consolidation needs to be structured carefully, with a clear plan for repayment.

Buying an investment property

Your property’s value might surprise you

uity could potentially help fund the deposit and purchasing costs for an investment property. ather than needing to save an entirely new deposit in cash, an eligible homeowner may be able to access e uity from their e isting property and use those funds towards their ne t purchase. his can be a powerful wealth-building strategy, but it also means taking on more debt, so borrowing capacity and ongoing cash flow need to be carefully considered.

ne thing regularly find is that homeowners don t actually know how much e uity they have. f you ve owned your property for several years, completed renovations or simply haven t had its value reviewed recently, your financial position may look very different today. ometimes the best decision is to leave your e uity e actly where it is, but knowing what you have can give you options.

Buying your next home f you ve outgrown your current home, e uity may form a significant part of the funding for your ne t purchase. epending on your circumstances, there may also be options to buy your ne t property before your e isting home sells, including bridging finance.

Consolidating other debts ome homeowners look at using their home

f you re thinking about renovating, investing, or restructuring debt, understanding your current property value, loan balance and borrowing capacity is a great place to start. our home isn t an , and e uity shouldn t be treated like free money anything you access becomes debt that needs to be repaid. ut used carefully and with the right strategy e uity can help you take the ne t step towards your financial goals. ook a iscovery ppointment at farnsworthfinancial.com.au to discuss your e uity position.

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Nathan Ross

Hastings Education Fund Recipients at December 2024 Presentation

INVESTING IN FUTURES

Community Support Creating Opportunity Through the Hastings Education Fund Left. ewis and Financial fficer hris llenby pictured with recipient Felicity Wilson.

Right. Hastings Education Fund recipient Felicity Wilson recently graduated with a Bachelor of Criminology and is now completing her Laws (Honours) degree and Diploma of Legal Practice.

Helen and John Ross - patrons of HEF

For many young people across the Hastings, the dream of pursuing tertiary education comes with significant challenges. Leaving home to study often means relocating hundreds of kilometres away, balancing study with work, and managing the rising costs of accommodation, textbooks and everyday living.

T

he Hastings Education Fund (HEF), part of the Country Education Foundation of Australia, exists to help remove those barriers. Through the generosity of local businesses, community organisations and individual donors, F provides financial assistance and encouragement to students undertaking university, TAFE, apprenticeships and vocational education.

One student who knows the value of that support is Felicity ilson. s a first-generation university student, Felicity entered higher education without the benefit of family e perience to guide her. hile financial assistance from the Hastings Education Fund helped ease the practical costs of studying away from home, she says the greatest gift has been knowing others are invested in her success.

“The funding I’ve been fortunate to receive through this initiative isn’t simply about the financial support, she says. t’s the feeling of knowing you have a team of people cheering for your success. hat encouragement has helped Felicity achieve remarkable milestones as she completes a double degree. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Criminology and is now embarking on the final two years of her Laws (Honours) degree while also completing a Diploma of Legal Practice.

Behind every scholarship recipient is a sponsor

choosing to invest in the future of our region. mong many, one of those long-standing supporters is Lewis Land. For Lewis Land, and HEF’s other 66 sponsors, supporting the Hastings Education Fund isn’t simply philanthropy, it’s an investment in the future strength of the Hastings community. Having developed Sovereign Hills over the past two decades, Lewis Land has grown alongside the region and understands that thriving communities are built not only through homes and infrastructure, but by creating opportunities for the people who call them home. That philosophy has seen sponsors such as Lewis Land support health, welfare and education initiatives through long-term partnerships rather than one-off donations.

Continuing Scholarships were an initiative of long-term iamond sponsors ay and ohn Burman.

Through the Continuing Education Scholarship program, sponsors contribute up to $5,000 each year to several selected students beyond their first year of tertiary study, helping remove financial barriers that might otherwise prevent talented young people from completing their ualifications. astings ducation Fund is grateful to its many sponsors who back up their generous donations by taking time in their busy schedule to participate in HEF student activities and events. For example, Lewis Land staff from Sovereign Hills actively participate in the scholarship process each year, interviewing

To apply for a HEF grant, or to learn more about HEF or to donate, visit 114 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

applicants and meeting the remarkable young people behind every application. These conversations provide insight into the resilience, determination and aspirations of students and reinforces the importance of investing in their futures.

Every scholarship represents more than assistance for one individual. It is an investment in the future doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers, conservationists, health professionals and business leaders who will one day contribute back to regional communities like our own. As preparations begin for the next round of scholarships, the Hastings Education Fund encourages eligible students planning university, TAFE, apprenticeships or other vocational education in 2027 to submit an online application before 30 September. Applications can be lodged at https://cef.org.au/foundations/ hastings/.

The Fund also welcomes businesses, organisations and individuals who would like to help local students achieve their educational goals. Whether through sponsorship, donations or ongoing partnerships, every contribution helps open doors for the next generation. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact hefsponsorship@gmail.com. Together, we can ensure that financial circumstances never stand in the way of talent, ambition and the opportunity to succeed.

cef.org.au/foundations/hastings

H A S T I N G S E D U C AT I O N F U N D S P O N S O R S 2 0 2 6 CONTINUING EDUCATION SPONSORS 2026

Men & Women at Work Morgans Port Macquarie

GOLF DAY MAJOR FUNDRAISING SPONSOR

Atkinson Family

Neopitch Marketing Agency

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Barber Family Charitable Fund

David Plews-Lifestyle Group

Kay & John Burman

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Give Hope Today Op-Shop Wauchope

Port Macquarie Lions Club

GOLF DAY AND CHARITY RAFFLE MAJOR DONORS

Josephine Mockford Memorial Scholarship

Port Macquarie Private Hospital

Anne Johnston Photography

Kendall Community Op-Shop

Neville Ramm

Matt & Courtney Docking-PMGC Pro Shop

Lewis Foundation

Rotary Club- Port Macquarie Sunrise

Harvey Norman Technology & Entertainment

Prados Continuing Medical Education Scholarship

Rotary Club-Port Macquarie West

HEM Property

Stowe Australia Pty Ltd

Rotary Club of Port Macquarie

The Friendship Club

J & H Travel & Tours (John Ross OAM & Helen Ross OAM)

DIAMOND SPONSORS ($5,000+)

Tierney Property Services Pty Ltd John Turner

Andrew Miedecke Ford Monica Atkinson The Barber Family Charitable Fund

GOLD SPONSORS ($1,000) Beachside Dental

Kay & John Burman

BCU Bank

Frangipani Hair and Beauty Spa

Peter & Carole Briscoe

Give Hope Today Op-Shop Wauchope

Commercial Project Group Pty Ltd

Hunt Hospitality Group

Compass Lending & Finance

Josephine Mockford Memorial Scholarship

The Corben Family

Kendall Community Op Shop

Donovan Oates Hannaford

Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital

Robert Dwyer MP

Dr Kristian Prados

Eclipse Technology Services

Rotary Club of Port Macquarie

Expressway Spares

Lynn & Geoff Slack

Grigg Advisory

Sovereign Hills Sales

Hastings Data Loggers Pty Ltd

PLATINUM SPONSORS (OVER $1,000 TO LESS THAN $5,000) Alan Taylor Civil Apps Mechanical Repairs Bennetts Steel (incl. Helen Glenn Memorial Scholarship) Birdon Group Brenda Campbell Richard & Helene Coloretti Dales Office Choice Warren Frumar Hastings Business Women’s Network Hastings Valley Fine Arts Assoc.

Dr Debbie Kors & Jeffrey Malineack Laurieton Bonny Hills Uniting Church Lighthouse Medical Centre

Hastings Secondary College HEM Property Peter & Cate Hearle Kevin Debreceny Real Estate

KFC Port Macquarie (Fran & Adam Scutts) Denise & Murray McKeough Meltique Beef Yamba Aston Motel Your Life Fitness

“IN KIND” SPONSORS Anne Johnston Photography Cassegrain Wines Charles Sturt University Focus Magazine Learning Live Snap Printing Solutions Port Macquarie Soul Sisters Catering TripleM Mid Coast & Hit Mid North Coast Radio “The Hastings Education Fund also wishes to express our gratitude to other donors who have provided funds, their time and raffle prizes during the year”

Macquarie Business Accountants Master Builders Assoc of NSW Oxley Division Mid Coast Connect Morris Succession Lawyers Newton Shutters, Blinds & Awnings Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Leigh Power Conjoint Professor Prem Rashid John Ross OAM & Helen Ross OAM Chris & Robyn Simmonds Richard & Anne Vella Wauchope Rotary Club Wauchope Vets GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 115

focus_contributor.

HOME

Styling with

ANTHONY BERINGEN

F R O M Z E N -YA D E S I G N S F O R L I F E

From Ceiling to Floor: The Art of Interior Decorating on the Mid North Coast I’m often asked what I do here in beautiful Port Macquarie. As an interior decorator, my business partner Michelle and I have a role that is distinct, deliberate, and deeply personal. We don’t move walls or rewire homes; we breathe new life into them. From pendant lighting to plush rugs, every detail is carefully selected to reflect the soul of the space and the people who live there.

Designer vs. Decorator: Understanding the Difference Another common question is whether or not I am an Interior Designer. I trained in London in interior design, but “interior designer” and “interior decorator” describe two very different professions.

An interior designer is typically involved in the structural planning of a space, collaborating with builders and architects to reconfigure layouts, specify joinery, and ensure code compliance. Their technical work begins before the first brick is laid.

In contrast, an interior decorator steps in once the bones of the home are complete. We focus on the aesthetics: the colour palette, furniture, soft furnishings, artwork, and lighting that bring warmth and personality.

We specialise in everything from ceiling to floor - curating custom furniture, selecting 116 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus

artwork, and layering textures. Our expertise lies in styling, not structural change.

A Curated Approach to Coastal Living What sets our service apart is access. Many of the pieces we install are sourced from our vast network of suppliers across Australia and overseas - items far beyond what’s available in local showrooms. This allows us to meet the sophisticated briefs of clients relocating from metro hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as discerning local clientele.

Our clients aren’t looking for a generic coastal look or 'fast furniture'. They want homes that thoughtfully reflect their history, taste, and lifestyle. Our role is to translate their vision into a cohesive, liveable interior that feels both elevated and authentic.

Downsizing Without Compromise A growing number of clients are downsizing, trading sprawling suburban properties for sleeker, more manageable coastal residences.

This shift presents unique challenges: how do you create a sense of spaciousness in a smaller footprint without losing the resonance of cherished pieces?

With thoughtful planning we help clients navigate this transition selecting proportionally sized furniture, fabrics that enhance light, and textures that add warmth and depth.

Not Staging, but Styling for Life Unlike property stylists who prepare homes for sale, we don’t stage. We create timeless interiors for our clients’ forever homes. Our goal is to delight the people who live there every day. We consider how light moves through a room, how rugs feel underfoot, and how art interacts with architecture and to make a house feel like a cherished home.

Complimentary Design Services One of the most unique aspects of our offering is that our design services, including detailed visual renders, are complimentary for clients who shop with us. This provides access to professional design guidance without traditional design fees, making wellconsidered interiors accessible to everyone who walks through our door.

The Decorator’s Touch From the first pendant light to the final cushion, every element is chosen with purpose. Because a home isn’t just a place to live, it’s a reflection of who you are and where you’ve chosen to be.

Have a problem area or a space you don't quite know what to do with? Send a picture with your questions to zenyadesignsforlife@ gmail.com or drop into our showroom at 164 Lake Road (Opposite Repco).

BUY SELL BUILD

01

TRADIES YOU CAN TRUST

Celebrating the local builders, trades and businesses our community can rely on.

THE NORTH COAST PROPERTY & HOME EDITION

BUILD IT. SELL IT. RENOVATE IT. STYLE IT. This October, FOCUS is putting the spotlight on the people and businesses shaping the way we buy, sell, build, renovate and live on the North Coast One huge edition.

Three major industry features.

02

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

Meet the agents, property professionals and industry leaders helping locals make their next move.

S ECU R E YO U R P O S ITIO N TO DAY

IF YOU’RE IN THE INDUSTRY, THIS IS THE EDITION TO BE SEEN IN.

03

Put your business directly in front of thousands of North Coast local homeowners, renovators, buyers, sellers, investors and people planning their next project.

HOUSE & GARDEN

SECURE YOUR POSITION NOW

From building and renovating to interiors, landscaping, pools, outdoor living and everything in between - when you look your best, so do we!

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ROD MCCORMICK Residential Sales Agent

ELLYRA SQUIRES Senior Property Manager

YOUR RESIDENTIAL EXPERTS

How long has your property been on the market for?

*T&C’s

Apply

Sell your property with Rod and we’ll waive your marketing costs.

ROD MCCORMICK 0493 492 975

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Let us look after your property!

Three (3) Months FREE Management Fees *T&C’s Apply 118COFFS GREATER PORTfocus MACQUARIE focus 78 COAST

ELLYRA SQUIRES 0493 801 764

1/22 Boambee Street

Rod continues his strong run of success throughout August, with the sale of 1/22 Boambee Street, and new listings entering the market.

As the weather begins to warm, more properties are expected to come onto the market, bringing increased buyer activity and greater competition.

With more choice available to buyers, having the right agent can make all the difference. Local knowledge, strategic marketing and strong negotiation skills are key to ensuring your property stands out and achieves the best possible result.

1/276 Crestwood Drive

60 Whitewater Terrace

If you’re thinking of selling this spring, choose a local agent who knows your neighbourhood, not just your property’s value.

ROD MCCORMICK 0493 492 975

Is your Property Manager protecting your investment?

Is your current property manager ticking all the right boxes?

If not, it might be time for a change. Our experienced property management team is here to make the transition seamless and support you every step of the way.

Six Monthly inspections Compliance checks Thorough communication Yearly rent reviews

Ellyra and Rachael have consistently delivered outstanding results for both tenants and landlords.

You shouldn’t have to chase updates, stress about maintenance or wonder when your rent needs to be reviewed. Your property manager should already be on top of it.

To Elly, your property is more than just a house, it’s an investment that deserves quality management.

ELLYRA SQUIRES 0493 801 764 GREATER PORTCOFFS MACQUARIE COASTfocus focus 119 78

128 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus