Port Macquarie Focus - i80

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

July 2012 // issue 80

I N S I D E 80

MORE FUN THAN A WII Matt Kelly and Richard Higgins' combined comedic talents will entertain audiences aged from 5 to 500-million this month ...

DAVID MARTIN This local author shows us just how much port Macquarie has changed in the past 150 years, with his wonderful new book, The Changing Face of Port Macquarie.

SYDNEY C O M PA N Y.

editor's note.

OPERA AUSTRALIA’S OZ OPERA PRESENTS

LOVE. BETRAYAL. PASSION. REVENGE.

editor.

from the

jay beaumont beaumont.

Welcome to the July issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. ’ve seen Greater Port Macquarie change

I

h over the h 12 years I’ve b so much been living here. Some good, like the new skatepark ... some bad, like the erosion on our beaches ... and some just sad, like the temporary toilets on Town Beach, a much needed afterthought blotting an otherwise perfect landscape. So much has changed.

But when I saw some of the images for a new book, The Changing Face of Port Macquarie, I was blown away with how much it’s changed over the last 150 years. The good news is the book has over 170 pages of historical photos, contrasted with similar shots from today. It’s a rare glimpse into how far we have come and the changes that have been made.

The bad news is that only 100 copies have been printed and we’ve already purchased 6 of them, so if you want a copy, you’d better be quick! To find out more about the book and see a sample of some amazing before and after photos, turn to page 60.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE If you’re stuck at home this month wondering what to do, then let us provide a little inspiration for you. The Greater Port Macquarie area is busting with entertainment

contacts.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors.

While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2012 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

options to get you out of the house this h winter; ffrom llocall attractions, to theatres and exhibitions there is surely something for everyone. Check out the entertainment and school holidays sections inside this edition.

DON YOUR FINEST THREADS TO WIN!

LOCAL ELECTIONS We’re starting to sound like a broken record, but if you’re seeking to become a Councillor or Mayor in the next election, then now is the time to contact us. Due to space restrictions, we won’t be able to cover all the candidates in depth at the last minute, so if you would like to be considered for an interview, feel free to get in touch.

Experience the decadence of opera with Oz Opera’s Don Giovanni this August.

Over three superb nights Glasshouse Don Giovanni opera patrons can win ‘best dressed’ prizes.

We’ve already interviewed Mayoral Candidate Adam Roberts and potential Councillors, Jeff Styles and Luke Hadfield. This month we interview Labor candidate Peter Alley. You can read more on page 49.

MAKE A NIGHT OF IT! Turn your opera experience into a night on the town! Show your Glasshouse Don Giovanni ticket on the night of the show to purchase a $10 The Don cocktail at Zebu Bar & Grill (value $15).*

QUOTE OF THE MONTH “Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” in.

– Albert Einstein.

Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

2007 Business of the Year 2009 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Business to Business Choice Award 2011 Winner Creative, IT & Communications

joey@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone

Proudly supported by

*This offer only available to Glasshouse ticket holders (>18) on the ticketed night of the show. Available pre and post show.

OPERA’S BAD BOY COMES TO THE GLASSHOUSE He’s stolen kisses and broken hearts, but has opera’s great Casanova gone a step too far? Be swept up in the stylishly sexy decadence straight out of La Dolce Vita in this exciting new production of Mozart’s classic masterpiece from Opera Australia’s Oz Opera, directed by Michael Gow. Our smouldering Don is about to seduce audiences all around Australia – watch out ladies!

Sung in English, performed with chamber orchestra.

Friday 17 August, 7.30pm Saturday 18 August, 7.30pm Monday 20 August, 7.30pm

kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Zac Wright zac@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmin Johansson jasmin@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

NI OM VAN G IO B LE FR N O A D L I A S AV KET

COPY EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au

TRAVEL EDITOR: Susie Boswell

TIC

winwin@portpr.com

FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS.

of the

Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 (02) 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

greater port macquarie focus 3

focusinterview.

SYDNEY C O M PA N Y.

AMY

A

my, is your role with the Sydney Dance Company, and how long have you been involved with the company?

I’m Sydney Dance Company’s Dance Director and have been with the company since 2009. I am Australian born and bred, but worked in New Zealand and Europe for many years, before basing myself in London for 10 years, which is where I met and worked with Rafael Bonachela. We worked together as dancers, then as choreographer and muse, collaborating on many works, including in the original production of The Land of Yes & The Land of No. When Rafael took up the position of Artistic Director of Sydney Dance Company, he invited me to return home to work alongside him as his Dance Director.

Please give us a brief history of the Sydney Dance Company ...

Sydney Dance Company is Australia’s leading contemporary dance company and resides at the bustling arts precinct in Sydney’s Walsh Bay. Currently under the artistic leadership of renowned choreographer Rafael Bonachela, we present award-winning contemporary dance with music and design by some of the world’s foremost choreographers, composers and artists, for both domestic and international audiences.

Sydney Dance Company was founded in 1969 by dancer Suzanne Musitz. In the early 1970s, the organisation started growing its profile as The Dance Company (NSW). In the late ‘70s, the Artistic Director and Associate Director at the time, Australian choreographers Graeme Murphy and Janet Vernon, championed the defining name change to Sydney Dance Company. Rafael Bonachela was appointed Artistic Director in 2009, giving birth to a new era in Australian contemporary dance. Since Rafael’s appointment, the company has toured around Australia and to Venice, Beijing, Germany, New York, Barcelona 4

greater port macquarie focus.

HOLLINGSWORTH.

“

The Sydney Dance Company will present one performance only of the magical production The Land of Yes and the Land of No at the Glasshouse this month. Amy Hollingsworth gives Jo Atkins an insight into the production through her role as Dance Director.”

and London.

Tell us about the production, The Land of Yes and the Land of No ...

The Land of Yes and The Land of No comes from Rafael's interest in signs and how they direct our everyday lives in different ways; sometimes we don't even notice, but we follow automatically. The impact on the decisions we make, the paths we take, the turning points, the risks and the adventures we embark upon. This is where the The Land of Yes and The Land of No begins.

In the process of creating the work, Rafael found that these everyday commands – for example, merge, diversion, one way – sparked memories, responses and emotions that resonate within our lives. Those memories and emotions became the soul and essence of The Land of Yes and The Land of No. The work is constructed in sections, each using a different sign or instruction as a start point. Exploration around the literal, the graphic and the emotional meaning of each sign lead to a movement repertoire which draws on any or all of these layers of meaning at any one time.

Rafael's work is abstract, so while the performers are drawing on the emotional responses and memories, they are sharing these and trying to evoke a feeling rather than depicting a 'story'.

How many people are involved with the production?

There are 16 dancers in total, as well as Rafael and myself and our technical team of 5, who are out on the road touring the production. The original creative team was Rafael, composer Ezio Bosso, the production design team Alan Mac-

Donald (Design Director), Guy Hoare (Lighting) and Theo Clinkard (Costumes), and we are also supported by our administrative team back at our base in Sydney.

The work is a beautiful showcase for the dancers. It is made up of a series of solos, duos, trios and larger group segments, so audiences get to see all the exceptional dancers shine in a variety of roles.

Visually stunning, the music for the piece has also been described as amazing. Who was the composer – and how much work was involved with interpreting the score?

The music was composed by Rafael’s longtime collaborator, Ezio Bosso, whom he has worked with on a number of previous Sydney Dance Company productions, including 360° (2008), We Unfold (2009), 6 Breaths (2010), and LANDforms (2011).

Until an accident in 2005, Ezio was one of the world’s rare double bass concertists and has worked as a soloist and director across the world, including Europe, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Japan, Peru, Australia, South Africa, the USA and Israel. Since then, he has focused on his directing and composing work.Ezio’s music is performed around the world and used for movies, radio, commercials, TV shows, in dance and theatre, and he is the only classical Italian composer to receive the prestigious Italian Music Award. His music is distributed by BMG RCA, Sony Warner and has been performed in Europe, Japan, Latin America and Australia. Since 2005, all of Ezio Bosso’s compositions have been produced by Hector Castillo and Dan Bora (David Bowie, Lou

Reed, Philip Glass) at Philip Glass’ Looking Glass Studio in New York.

Although Rafael and Ezio had worked together before the collaboration on The Land of Yes and The Land of No, this process was the first time the music and the choreography was created simultaneously. In their earlier collaborations, Rafael used music that was already existing.

At the outset of the creation Rafael, Ezio, myself and the other dancers spent three weeks in a studio together doing research and development.

We explored and shared the ideas, emotional responses and memories that were triggered by examination of signs that we encountered. At the end of the three weeks, Rafael, myself and the dancers began creating and Ezio began composing.

The Sydney Dance Company will also be presenting a 'Sneak Peek' for Port Macquarie audiences at the Glasshouse. What does this show comprise?

For the sneak peek, we’ll be inviting Port Macquarie locals to sit in on some of the performance-day tech run of The Land of Yes and The Land of No – this means Sneak Peek guests will be watching a real rehearsal. Their experience begins with watching the second half of the dancers’ daily technique class, then they have a Q&A session with me. After the Q&A, the audience have the unique experience of watching the beginning of the technical rehearsal of the show.

Thanks Amy.

the plug!

The Land of Yes and The Land of No at the Glasshouse on July 11 at 8pm. $59.90 adult $54.90 conc. $30.90 under 21/student. Sneak Peek: July 11, at 1pm. Suitable for Years 4 9, $7 per student. Limited places.

Contact the Box Office 6581 8888 for details.

inside this Cancer Trust.

12.

We chat to Dr Begbie from the Oncology Unit Port Macquarie about the important work of fundraising for the local Cancer Unit.

Issue 80 - July 2012

usual suspects.

the

More fun than a Wii. Matt Kelly and Richard Higgins’ combined comedic talents come together to enthral audiences aged from 5 to 500-million … in a show that is truly More Fun than a Wii! Don’t miss this unforgettable performance at the Glasshouse on July 13.

8. what’s on for July 24. eat featuring local restaurants 32. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 36. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 46. tourism with Janette Hyde 47. travel with Susie Boswell 71. starguide with Terri 88. port chamber update with Robert Turner 88. landcare with Estelle Gough 89. real estate with Greg Trembath

19.

No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month @

60.

WHAT’S ON DON’T MISS...

David Martin.

Port Macquarie has witnessed many changes in the last 150 years, and David Martin has captured this unique photographic history in his new book – The Changing Face of Port Macquarie …

www.focusmag.com.au u follow us on www.facebook.com/focus.mag www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

@ GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

See GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU for full event details

SHOWSTOPPERS OF LONDON’S WEST END

SATU & FRIENDS

An all exciting all-new Morning Music show starring Philip Gould and Michelle Fitzmaurice.

Be captivated by the glorious range and expression of chamber music in our magnificent acoustic theatre.

MONDAY 2 JULY, 11am

SATURDAY 28 JULY, 2pm

Tickets: $24.50Adult, $22.50 Group 6+ Morning Music package price $20.50 per ticket

Tickets: $49.50 Adult, $44.50 Conc/Groups 6+, $39.50 Under 21/Student

THE LAND OF YES & THE LAND OF NO

IN THE GALLERY

Entry is free

A sensuous work by Australia’s leading contemporary dance company. ONE NIGHT ONLY!

OF LOVE AND WAR

WEDNESDAY 11 JULY, 8pm

The exhibition explores the relationships forged during times of conflict and the impact on the daily lives of Australians.

Tickets: $59.90 Adult, $54.90 Conc, $41.90 Under 21/Student, $53.90 Groups 6+

ON EXHIBITION JUNE 30 - SEPTEMBER 9

Sydney Opera House and Glasshouse presents

LOCAL ARTISTS

MORE FUN THAN A Wii

Celebrate our local artists with this series of exhibitions of latest artworks.

By the List Operators for kids. A playful, naughty fun comedy for children and their families.

FRIDAY 13 JULY, 11am

Tickets: $22.50 Adult, $18.50 Child, $75 Family (2 adult, 2 child)

WHAT A MAN’S GOTTA DO Spend a night with comedian and award-winning songwriter Andrew Horabin.

THURSDAY 19 JULY, 7.30pm

Tickets: $36.90 Adult, $30.90 Conc, $25.90 Student, $30.90 Group

BOOK NOW! (02) 6581 8888

ON EXHIBITION JULY 20 - AUGUST 26

JUST ROUND THE CORNER HAPPY BIRTHDAY PETER RABBIT Celebrate the 110th Anniversary with this mischievous musical about the world’s most loved bunny.

SATURDAY 11 AUGUST, 2pm

Tickets: $24.50 Adult/Conc, $20.50 Under 21/Student, $80 Family (2 adults, 2 children) SATURDAY 7 JULY @ 11am

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie greater port macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

“ Aspiring to tell a story in each image he captures is what Josh sets out to achieve with his photography. His love for the art is taking his career to new heights, with multiple campaigns and a current exhibition at the Sunset Gallery. ”

Josh Hedge

ell us a little about yourself …

I'm currently 20 years old, living in Port Macquarie − which I have done since my family and I moved up roughly 4 years ago from Sydney.

What first sparked your interest in photography?

I don't think there was a certain moment or thing which sparked an interest towards taking photos. I've always enjoyed all types of art in general. Whatever it was though, that made me pick up a camera, it was the best decision I've ever made. Life would be so dull without photography. Well, mine would be boring anyway ha ha!

What was your very first camera, and who gave it to you?

My first SLR camera was one I bought off a very talented photographer and friend of mine, Ryan Cheeseman. It was a Canon 40D, which I used as if there was no tomorrow.

I have never studied or been taught anything to do with photography or cameras, so it was a fun experience teaching myself all the different methods which can be used with an SLR. I would still to this day use it, if it wasn't for it flooding to the point where it doesn't turn on anymore (my fault).

What photographic gear would you not be without on a shoot?

To be perfectly honest, as long as I have a camera, I'm fine … whether it is my SLR or my 6

greater port macquarie focus.

older film models I use (that were made in the ‘50s). The only thing I probably couldn't do without though, is my iPod ha ha! Listening to music while I'm taking photos is something I've loved doing since I first started; it just helps block everything and let my imagination take over in my own little world. It's fun!

What are your favourite subjects to shoot?

It's so hard to choose just one, as I always try to vary my work around a whole lot of different subjects. But IF I had to pick just one, it would have to be photographing people.

I try to capture humans in a very subtle and natural style, so 95% of the time it is never staged or in a studio, and it’s always without a flash. Sure, it sounds easy, but to capture someone’s personality, along with their emotion and background and have it all coincide to tell a story in one single image is very hard … which I guess is why I'm so picky with my photos, but it makes me appreciate them just that little bit more when I get ones I like.

Shooting in the last hour or so of lighting during a sunset just has to be mentioned in here too; 3 out of my top 5 favourite images have all been taken in this time frame. The colours and silhouettes created around any subject during it just simply cannot be beaten.

In your opinion, what does it take to be a great photographer?

I've been lucky to have met endless amounts of photographers from all different industries,

and I think they are all good in their own unique way. But there are a very select few out there with a rare and unteachable talent of being able to tell stories out of the simplest images.

It's cliché, but a picture really does tell a 1,000 words, and I find that the images which resemble that saying the most are the ones that are the least intricate. It's a sign of not only a good photographer, but an even better artist to be able to possess this skill.

You held an exhibition at the Sunset Gallery in Port Macquarie recently. How successful was that for you?

Yes, I recently had an exhibition open at Sunset Gallery with about 20 images of all sizes in Port Macquarie, thanks to Scott and Port's own talented photographer Matt Jorgensen, who has his own gallery down there.

They gave me the opportunity to be able to get it up and running. Although I don't set out and take photos thinking of the money that can come from them, it's been cool to have my own work on display − and to have people actually wanting to buy them is pretty overwhelming.

It will be still going for another 3 - 4 weeks, so head down, check it all out, and say hello!

What are your plans for the future?

The possibilities career wise in photography are quite exciting. The thought of making a living out of doing something I love and still being so young is just crazy.

I have recently shot multiple campaigns for some unbelievably creative fashion labels and boutiques, which ultimately led to me being accredited to shoot at the week-long Mercedez Benz Fashion Week in Sydney, which was the most amazing week of my life by far.

Meeting and collaborating with world renowned photographers, models, designers and bloggers inspired me to pursue a career in the industry … and with the next 2 months being busy with more campaigns to shoot, I can only hope it opens even bigger and better doors for me in the near future.

Where can people view your photos?

About a year and a bit ago, I started a blog for my images that recently notched up 35,000 views as well as 1,000 followers, which I never expected to happen, ever … let alone after a year! They can be seen at www.joshhedge.tumblr.com Are you looking for new clients?

As for work, I am open to all sorts, whether it’s weddings/family portraits/portfolios etc. I also enjoy working with unique looking people on shoots, so if you have 2 different coloured eyes and a pet seahorse or something, don't be afraid to send me a message on my email: joshhedgephotography@hotmail.com and for the other social networkers out there, my Instagram is – joshhedge.

Thanks Josh.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

W H AT ’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / J U LY 2 0 1 2

16

what’s

Enigma Quartet Art Exhibition Colours of the Desert Alpitye At Port Aboriginal Art Gallery in Short St, Port Macquarie presents Colours of the Desert, a fresh and vibrant collection of colourful works from the Australia’s Desert Artists depicting their traditional country. You only need to travel through the Australian desert to encounter the amazing variety of colours and textures that create this incredible landscape.

These Dreaming stories for many thousands of years passed down from generation to generation and were painted using a very limited palette of naturally occurring ochre pigments.

The younger generations of artists have followed the lead set byy their Elders, and it is their confident and assured use of colour and form that marks them as the stars of the future.

Exhibition Dates 20 July to 3 August 2012.

When Mon - Fri, 10am to 5pm; Sat 10am to 2pm.

1/19 Short St, Port Macquarie.

Or make an appointment by contacting Louella on Ph: (02) 6584 4883/Mob: 0408 097 189.

Email: alpityeatport@gmail.com / www.alpityeatport.com.au

more information

Take a musical journey to Australia's heartland, exploring our rich Indigenous musical culture and heritage as portrayed through Peter Sculthorpe's Jabiru Dreaming, written in 1990. Juxtaposed against this natural backdrop are Janacek's 1923 Quartet, inspired by Beethoven via Tolstoy, and Mozart's most daring quartet, that broke all the rules in the book when it was composed in 1785 – the sublime Dissonance Quartet. These four young and exceptionally talented musicians are passionate about Chamber Music and have been selected for Musica Viva's Rising Stars program in 2012.

When Wednesday 18 July 2012; 7pm.

More info and tickets Glasshouse.org.au or box office 6581 8888.

5

C Come and Join the fun this school holidays. fu Jo us for an exclusive NAB AFL Auskick Clinic at Wayne Join Richards park on Thursday 5 July. Meet AFL players and take Ri pa part in a number of fun footy drills. Don’t forget to bring your AFL merchandise to be signed by the AFL stars. To yo reserve your place, RSVP to Amanda Ferguson 6586 8459. re When Thursday 5 July; 3pm.

W Venue: Wayne Richards Park, Port Macquarie.

Ve

28

Rai Thistlethwayte Artist Voice, Offbeat and Port Panthers Present RAI THISTLETHWAYTE (Lead singer/pianist THIRSTY MERC) C) – putting some unique spins on some much loved Thirsty Merc songs in a rare solo performance.

When Saturday 28 July 2012.

More info Contact reception by phone on 6580 2300 or by email at portpanthers@panthers.com.au for 18 further information.

Call the Visitor Information Centre on 6581 8000, or log on to the Port Macquarie events website: www.gpmevents.com.au

8 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

H O R A B I N So … just what has a man gotta do to be a man in Port Macquarie? Find out on July 19 at the Glasshouse, when Andrew Horabin tries to determine exactly that! Andrew is well known as a comedian, singer song-writer, public speaker, and author. This multi-talented individual shares some unique insights about his show, and life, with FOCUS readers …

COM E DI A N

S

o what do you think a man has to be a man in our town – Port Macquarie?

I’m coming there to find that out! I’ll be able to tell you that after the show. I can tell you what a man’s gotta do to be a man in other towns, but each town ju a little bit different. That’s why it’s such a is just fascina fascinating show!

In the interval, people fill in a survey card with three questions on it, and the first question is, “What’s a man gotta do to be a man in your town?” In the second half of the show, I read the answers out on stage. And that’s when I find the answer.

I’ve done 9 towns in WA so far, and whether it’s a mining town, or a wheat growing town – we find they’re all just a little bit different.

So, tell us in your own words about the story presented in the show …

The story is about a young bloke about to get married. He’s at his Buck’s night, and the Bucks and the Hens end up clashing in the street outside a strip joint, and the Hens aren’t too impressed. The bride calls off the wedding, believing the young bloke will never grow up.

He begs for a second chance – and she gives him 24 hours to prove he’s a man, otherwise the wedding is off!

It’s all about what would you do to prove you’re a man in 24 hours …

You’ve done 9 shows so far, as you mentioned, and you’re visiting 50 towns all up on the tour. Have you seen any common elements so far in people’s answers?

There are some things that are common.

One is that when you don’t initiate boys into manhood, one of the possibilities seems to be that they never quite get there; they can still be a child at 50 years old. Another possibility is they get there, but make an absolute mess of things for many years … or, the young blokes try to initiate themselves.

Initiation is something that has happened for literally thousands of years all over the world.

Every culture had rites, rituals and ceremonies, where boys were picked by their elders either on their age or their behaviour. In some cultures, these ceremonies were pretty full on and

S I NG E R S ONG-W R I T E R

PU B L IC S PE A K E R

could kill you, but it was so essential to the preservation of the culture and to the role of the man, that it was worth that risk …

That need for initiation still lives in the psyche of young men. It’s not like they hit a certain age, like 15, and say, “I need initiation into becoming a man now”…they just start taking crazy risks, pushing the boundaries, running in packs and challenging themselves. And without any elders showing them how hot to set the fire, they either don’t set it hot enough to provide a meaningful experience, or they set it too hot and do things that are completely reckless.

There are examples all around He begs for a second the country of young men chance – wrapping their cars around a m 24 tree, getting themselves into and she gives hi ’s a he e ov fights, or unable to cope with hours to pr the life and killing themselves. The man, otherwise !” off is How do you describe statistics on young male suicide wedding what you do to others? are staggering.

I’ve never been able to So that’s one of the threads. describe it very well! Now that I Some of the older guys in their 70s think about it, I think the secret is not left home when they were 16 and went out over-identifying yourself with your job. People working on properties, and nowadays there are do tend to over-identify with their job: “I am a men in their 30s still living at home with mum CEO” or “I am a doctor” … they think that’s doing their washing. It’s a different time now … who they are; but it’s not! It’s just what they’re So in essence, even though the show is a doing while they work. musical comedy, what you’re saying is that I’m a parent now too, so I’m not working as there’s a very serious thread to the whole much as I used to. It’s about priorities; I’ve been performance … touring a lot this year, and next year when the The serious thread is the whole reason I touring is finished, I’ll probably schedule some wanted to do this show. When I was 20-21, I more of the corporate work I do. One of the knew I was supposed to be a man, but I didn’t things I’ve learned as I’ve grown older is that I really know what that meant. I didn’t really can’t fit it all in! You can’t schedule parenting to know how to handle myself in the world of fit into neat 15 minute blocks! adults, what kind of relationship I should be Considering how varied your career is, having with women, and I couldn’t believe do you have a preference for comedy, I’d been released in this world without being or singing/song-writing, or even prepared for it. public speaking? They’re all types of I started reading about this and rites of communication after all … passage, and I became very interested in it. I What I love is that every single week is decided to write a musical comedy, because if different. I can be speaking to the finance you make people laugh, they go away and think section of a big mining company, and two days ...

You’ve done so many things with your life – later be doing stand up in a pub, then the next day working with undercover Police. Every group you’re an author, public speaker, comedian, is different, every situation is different – and I’d musician … how do you fit all of this in?

AU T HOR

“

get bored if I was doing the same thing all the time! I have an aversion to routine!

You’ve come a long way from the lad who discovered a love of debating in school, which ultimately led to a multi-faceted communications career … but what’s next?

I want to continually get better at what I do.

I wrote the book Bullshift, which has been very successful … the show has been going very well, and I’d love to play for a full house in every town. Ultimately, I’d love to work with film.

The story line I present on stage is very simple, but you could do so much more with it on film.

Watch the video clip, You’ve gotta be a bloke, mate at: www.wamgd.com. I reckon the whole show would make a great movie.

Thanks Andrew.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

What a Man’s Gotta Do at the Glasshouse July 19 at 7.30pm.

Cost $36.90 adult, $30.90 conc. and $25.90 under 21/student. call the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au

greater port macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

G RO G E R

“

A passion for preparing healthy food with a distinctly Indian flavour delights Sumita's regular customers at the friendly Foreshore Markets.”

W

hy are you passionate about cooking traditional Indian cuisine?

I have always been passionate about leading a healthy lifestyle through eating healthy and delicious yet ethically conscious vegetarian food. I have passion for cooking traditional Indian vegetarian food with new and good ideas and the cuisine adjusted to the western palate, because I am familiar with the spices and cooking techniques.

How did you gain your cooking experience?

When I went to Germany 15 years ago after my marriage, I didn't know cooking apart from rice and plain curry, because I didn't have to cook at my parents' house in India. My mother would always say one should concentrate on studies and enjoy life in a positive manner when one is young. So, I was busy with my studies and having fun with my friends.

I used to see my mother cooking, or cook only when there was no-one to cook. But after my marriage, my husband cooked for a month for us – and that was enough for me. I decided that I would learn Indian cooking and started to learn from my German husband, who is a great cook and baker like his mother.

I then started to follow recipes from different cooking books, which became my hobby. Before I wouldn't cook, but would collect recipes from different magazines.

Maybe unknowingly I was preparing myself for my catering business. Mostly I follow Kurma's Vegetarian Cooking Books.

I still remember cooking for a couple who were my first guests and spending 6 – 7 hours for a four-course meal. Today I would cook for 40 -50 people in that time. So nothing is impossible to do in life.

Though I follow the recipes from cooking books, my cooking style is traditional and has especially been influenced by my mother, with recipes without onion and garlic that have been used in my family for generations.

10 greater port macquarie focus.

What are some of the dishes you serve at the Foreshore Market?

I serve mainly samosas with tamarind chutney, pakoras with apple chutney, avocados and beans served in lettuce leaves with stuffed capsicum, and a meal consisting of rice, spicy lentil dal (without which no Indian meal is complete), curries (every month different curries are to served) and pappadam or halava “I then started m fro s pe (dessert). ci re w follo g books, Where do you source many different cookinmy which became ouldn't of your ingredients? hobby. Before I wcollect Since it’s hard to get all the cook, but would erent Indian spices and ingredients in recipes from diff Port Macquarie, I get them from magazines.” are blended and Sydney when I visit, or my friend cooked. I prefer Denise brings them from Sydney Basmati Rice than long from the Indian grocery stores. I get my grain rice with Indian curries. potatoes and most of the vegetables from My favourite ingredients and the local Comboyne farmers. spices are: What are some tips to remember when it 1. Paneer (the fresh Indian cheese) comes to Indian cooking?

2. Okra (ladies finger), eggplant, and 1. Wash the rice and lentils a few times, tomato until the water runs clear.

3. Fresh grated coconut 2. Can substitute any seasonal vegetables 4. Chickpea flour and semolina that are available in the market for ingredients 5. Mustard seeds, hing (asafoetida), ginger, in Indian recipes. garam masala, coriander leaves and curry 3. Fat is the real villain in traditional Indian leaves. cooking, so unsaturated ghee can be replaced Tell us about your current menu for the with healthy sunflower oil, vegetable oil or winter season. olive oil and by using non-stick pan, less oil is The menu for the winter season will be the used. hot samosas and the pakoras with chutney, 4. Whole dried chillies add a fiery heat. and the curry will be: Matar Paneer. The main Chilli powders from dried chilli vary in heat, so ingredients for this curry are peas and paneer it’s better to use dried chilli flakes, which tend (Indian cheese) in a spiced, minted tomato to have a milder flavour. I usually use the chilli sauce. (Poories) Indian puffed fried breads flakes to know how hot the curry or samosa is with chickpea curry. The curry has nut like going to be. flavour and smooth texture, cooked in spicy 5. Usually it’s better to buy whole spices sauce.Semolina Halava or Papadam. and grind them as needed, because ground How long have you been attending the spices tend to lose their flavour in just a few Foreshore market, and what do you enjoy months. about it?

What are some of your favourite I started going to the Hastings Farmers’ ingredients and spices?

Markets in 2007 at Wauchope, a year later The essence of Indian cooking lies in the at Port Macquarie, and the Artist Markets in ingredients used and how spices and herbs 2009 since its commencement. When both

the markets from Port Macquarie combined in 2010, I continued to attend the Foreshore Market. At the Farmers' Market I came in contact with our local community. I really enjoyed being a stallholder at the Artist Market, because every market day was like a festive day for me. In India, there is a saying that we have 13 festivals in 12 months, so I am used to having people around in a festive mood. People would come with family not only to shop, but also to have a relaxed time and have a chat with their friends.

The last couple of years had been very challenging for me because of studies and health issues, but I always got support from Sonia and Necia regarding the markets. I remember how Necia would help me with unloading my car at the Artist Markets when I had a frozen shoulder, and Sonia giving me a big hug, which I will never forget.

At the moment I am looking for a job at the accounting firms, and even if I get a job, I will never leave the Foreshore Market and my customers. I don't know many of my customers by name, but they are in my heart.

Going to the market is not only for money, but also for friendship and to be a member of the community.

I have lived in many countries, but I have never made friendships with so many people as at the Foreshore Market after leaving India.

Thanks Sumita.

Video

The Little Brewing Company.

4:58

OF THE

MONTH

BY THE

NUMBERS

VIDEO BY: Jackson Rafferty.

Watch on your smartphone

ABOUT: Tsunami. A new song by Australian, percussive 12 string guitarist, Blake Noble. Filmed and recorded in Port Macquarie, NSW, Australia, Blake’s energetic performances, humble personality and astonishing guitar skills are helping him climb to the top and stamp his name as one of Australia’s best percussive 12 string guitarists.

WATCH AT:

242,424 amount of bottles used every year.

3,000 capacity in litres of the largest fermentation tank.

6,360 average number of bottles produced per tank.

100,000 capacity of plant in litres anually.

4 - 12 weeks to brew, depending on style and process.

1,700 bottles that pass through the bottling/capping machine per hour.

59 number of medals won.

11 hours in a typical brewing day.

3 number of staff. source: The Little Brewing Company.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ5qsr2J8gA

Title. The Changing Face of Port Macquarie.

Local Author. David Martin.

LOCAL

READ

Port Macquarie has witnessed many changes in the last 150 years, and David Martin has captured this unique photographic history in his new book – The Changing Face of Port Macquarie …Celebrating the 150 years of Port Macquarie on film.

Some of the earliest photos in the book from Port Macquarie date back to about 1860 and are compared with photos from today. Find out more on page 60.

Contact: Contact the author directly on 6582 6210 or at dgmartin@aapt.net.au Promote your local book or music album. Send us the details to editor@focusmag.com.au

Image of the month.

Title: Pelicans at Pelican Bay.

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

About: This photo was taken as a storm moved out to sea at sunset.

Photo by: Brenda Sarno. Shot on: Fujifilm 10X.

AT ’ S I N WH

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

PUMPKIN I don’ don’t ’t think thin th inkk many m ny of us get ma gett th tthrough hrough hrou hr h winter wint inte in ter without at least ter leaas o ne wa warm rmin in bowl of home-made pumpkin soup – and one warming w ho ca can n re res s the sweet, nutty flavour of roast pumpkin – who resist ei ith t er with a lamb roast or in a hearty risotto. either PPu mp pkins ar Pumpkins are a type of squash, whose summer cousins iinclude in clud u e th ud the zzucchini. Like other orange-fleshed fruit and veg, the ve ey co they contain loads of betacarotene, which our bodies co conv onvert to vvitamin A – essential for a healthy life. convert Or O Orig rig gin i atin ng in Central and South America, pumpkins are Originating n ow en enjo joye jo y d in all parts of the world – in a myriad of ways. ye now enjoyed In n SSouth outh ou th EEast as Asia, the flowers and tender young leaves are u us ed,, wh ed whil ililee in Italy, pumpkins are often a ravioli filling or used, while made ma de iinto nog nt gnocchi.

If yyou ou d on have your own pumpkin patch – the good folk on’t on don’t at N Nea earr Ri Rive ve Produce have an impressive one. You can Near River get th thei eirr lo oc their locally grown Jap pumpkins at the regular local farm mer ers’ s’ m a farmers’ markets.

WHERE

Near River Produce have a pumpkin soup made and ready for you to take home, heat and serve! Ask them about their new product – That Gourmet Pumpkin Soup, available now at Gourmand Ingredients in Short Street.

focusreview.

with Julie from www.gourmetgetaways.com.au

local dr p.

Rose’s Vineyard at Innes View Chambourcin 2010.

Winter is the season for red wine and fireplaces. I guarantee this delicious Chambourcin will warm you from the inside out. Rose’s Vineyard has always made a magnificent red from their locally grown Chambourcin grape, and this year’s offering is no exception.

The 2010 is a lovely, fruit driven wine exhibiting beautiful tannins and a pleasing spicy flavour. A lovely choice for drinking now, or cellar for a little longer and allow the flavours to further mature.

GOES WITH: Enjoy this wine with a hearty slow cooker dish, or perhaps a homemade Guinness Pie. It will match perfectly with the foods of the season.

COST: $18 per bottle.

AVAILABLE: At the cellar door, 132 Apanie Road, Lake Innes www.rosesvineyard.com

greater port macquarie focus 11

focusinterview.

Dr Begbie From the Oncology Unit Port Macquarie.

H A S T I N G S C A N C E R T RU S T G A L A D I N N E R - J U LY 2 1 .

P

lease tell us about your position with the Oncology unit in Port Macquarie ...

When I moved to Port Macquarie 15 years ago, I was the only Medical Oncologist between Newcastle and the Gold Coast. The Cancer Centre was pretty basic in those days, but over the years Port Macquarie has developed a high quality cancer service at the North Coast Cancer Institute that provides everything from complex diagnosis, the full range of treatments, and even cancer research and medical education.

Port Macquarie has grown enormously over the same period of time, and I have enjoyed being part of that process. It has been particularly exciting to see the recent funding announcement for the hospital upgrades at PMBH and Kempsey Hospital, and it will be great to see them built and operational.

We are fortunate to live in a great part of the world, and my family have loved becoming part of the community.

What is your association with the Hastings Cancer Trust, and why did you become involved?

Eight years ago, I saw a need to connect the community with cancer services at a local level, and drew together a number of local people to found the Hastings Cancer Trust.

The Hastings-Macleay has a great story to tell with its medical services, and it is always good to see a community buy into that story.

The Trust has been instrumental in enhancing the quality of cancer care in our region and remains an important tool to see health care provided close to where people live.

For those who aren’t aware of the Trust, what are its aims?

The Trust’s Mission is: The Hastings Cancer Trust is operated by volunteers who seek to deliver long term community support to local organisations and institutions to pursue excellence in the field of local cancer 12 greater port macquarie focus.

management. outcome of the fundraiser will be?

How is the trust structured, and who are The goals of the night are for people to some of the other individuals involved eat, drink and have a great time with a table with the organisation? of their friends and work colleagues, while The Trustees are: Dr Brenda Campbell, raising money for a local cause. The more Magistrate Wayne Evans, Solicitor Brett money we raise, the more opportunities we Gilbert, Accountant Shane Ryan, General will be able to fund.

Manager of Port News Janine Buesnel, and How will funds raised be used to benefit myself. Rob Oakeshott MP and Leslie Williams the people of the Hastings area?

MP are Patrons of the Trust. Betty Allman is The following is a list of some of the the Chair of the Fundraising Committee, and funding allocation highlights over the life of Denise Eastabrook is Co-ordinator. the Trust: The Fundraising Committee develops ideas Community: support for Rotary Lodge; for fundraising and delivers practical results Dragons Abreast; and Look Good, Feel Better from those ideas. A committee of fundraisers Program; start up funds for a pastoral care has been built to assist Betty. worker for cancer patients.

The Co-ordinator bridges Diagnostics Services: Bronchoscope two arms of the Trust, by and Pleuroscope for diagnosis co-ordinating meetings and and treatment of lung cancer working to promote the and its complications; The goals of work of the Trust. bladder scanners for r fo e ar t gh the ni and k in The Trust will raise assessment of prostate dr t, ea to le peop e with funds from fundraising and bladder disorders. have a great tim iends activities, bequests by Cancer Surgery: a table of their fr ues, and work colleag the public, donations Gamma Probe for r fo ey on while raising m from corporate entities improving quality of e.” us ca a local and Grants from breast cancer surgery; vital government, corporate, and liver surgery equipment, the private sector. without which liver surgery Funding decisions are made would not have started in Port by the Trustees, and priority will be Macquarie; ultrasound for anaesthetic given to local providers of cancer services for placement of intravenous lines; patient which there is a lack of government funding. controlled analgesia machines for post-op pain Funding is not ongoing and is granted relief. annually for education, research, patient North Coast Cancer Institute: funds to comfort, equipment and big ticket items for support patients’ every day needs with which government funding is not available. fuel cards, accommodation and nutritional What is the fundraiser the Hastings supplements; education for cancer nurses, Cancer Trust has planned for July 21? junior doctors and allied health staff; music The fundraiser is the 8th annual Gala systems and televisions to entertain patients Dinner to be held at Panthers on 21 July. during therapy; vital signs machines to Entertainment will be provided by Todd monitor unwell patients.

Hardy’s Jazz Band The Moods, with vocalist Research: computer equipment to assist Anita Spring. in the accuracy of tumour measurement for What are the Trustees hoping the ground breaking trials; freezer for storage of

“

trial materials. Palliative Care: quality of life enhancing equipment for patients in Macleay and Hastings regions; includes hospital beds, specialised chairs, oxygen concentrators and syringe drivers for pain relief.

Rehabilitation: funding for an exercise physiology program to hasten the recovery of cancer survivors; genetic counselling education for patients with a family history of cancer.

More than $600,000 has been donated to small and big projects over the 8 year life of the Trust. We expect to provide similar services and equipment during the next financial year.

In your view, what are some of the things/services needed most in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area for cancer patients and their families – and how can we work together to supply these services?

We are fortunate to have a health system that provides funding for basic cancer services.

However, sometimes those who work at the coalface are able to see ways in which the cancer journey for patients and their carers can be made better. Every year we call for those who know the needs to nominate projects, and on average we would fund $80-100,000 per year in projects.

The Trust exists to connect generous people within our community to those needs.

Where can people find out more details about the fundraiser?

For tickets and information, phone Betty Allman on 6584 6937 or 0427 846 937.

Tickets cost $85.

Final words …

The success of a community can be judged by how it deals with those less fortunate within it. Cancer can impact on individuals and families in in many ways. The Hastings Cancer Trust is one way in which our region can stand up and show its support for those doing it tough.

Thanks Dr Begbie.

Intreview by Jo Atkins.

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Arts F E A T U R E

From Long Ago to New Blood ong Point Vineyard Vineyar ard d A 'Truly Local' art exhibition at Long and Gallery. Some of the talented artists who will be showcased in the month of July are: David Suters – noted local wood craftsman, whose forebears lend their name to a street in Bonny Hills. A champion of Red Cedar, River Red Gum and Camphor Laurel.

Yvonne Kiely – a talented local painter of stunning canvases.

Yvonne is currently exploring her ancestry in Ireland and is a regular at the local artist market.

Skye Petho – has established herself locally as a modern glass artist, using age old lampworking techniques in her unique and colourful jewellery.

Jan and Mark Anderson – have a history of design in Melbourne and Sydney. Jan works wonders with fused sterling silver to produce amazing necklaces. ‘New Blood’ Mark wields pastels and acrylic paint brushes, and his work implores a response.

All of these artists are presently displaying their work at Long Point Vineyard. Their exhibition of wood, glass and canvas reflect current skills that were started in Ireland, London, Melbourne, Sydney and locally, all with a history but all now resulting in a stunning array of TRULY LOCAL talent.

“This is probably the most demanding work we’ve displayed to date,” reports Graeme Davies, owner/winemaker at Long Point.

The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm, until the end of July.

14 greater port macquarie focus.

Kylie's Art Studio e at at What are some of the quality art supplies in store Kylie’s Art Studio?

We stock a range of quality art supplies: Art Spectrum oils, watercolours and pastels; Colourfix pastel and watercolour paper; Frederix canvases; Neef brushes; Palomino aquarelle and colour pencils; a small but growing range of Matisse paints, wet and dry mediums. We also have a range of scrapbooking supplies and gift and homewares, including hand-painted gifts and paintings by Kylie and other local artists.

Do you offer art classes?

Acrylic classes are held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9.30am - 12.30pm and Saturday 9.30am - 12pm. Beginner scrapbooking lessons are on Thursday 2pm - 4pm.

Describe your artistic background.

My first painting experience was learning china painting at 18. Afterwards, I learnt silk painting, porcelain figurines, fabric and porcelain doll-making, watercolour airbrushing and then acrylics which I have been teaching for approximately 19 years; during this time I’ve taught at the Laurieton Community College and at Who Framed, Wauchope.

Why will people love coming to Kylie’s Art Studio?

We sell affordable, quality art supplies, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff can order most art needs not in stock.

Our relaxed and welcoming classes are great for beginners wishing to learn new painting skills and experienced painters looking for a social outlet. We also have a fantastic and unique range of gifts for any occasion.

Warming Up For Winter The Foreshore Market will operate e again this month mon nth h on on Saturday 14 July – warming up for winter with the wonderful sounds from Matt and Liz Brooker and the ever expanding group of buskers who rotate around the market. With the sun shining, we all enjoyed a wonderful market in June, with many new faces and tourists enjoying our community inspired market place. We have welcomed Vege Belly – Ali Mackinlay – with her wonderful, wholesome organic foods, so come down and seek her out under the trees. And as usual, our other food vendors will have many a tasty morsel to tempt you.

We introduced our ORPHFUND stall in June, with a lot of interest in the wonderful work this organisation does and the range of products they have for sale. For us as a market, it is a wonderful way to give back, with all proceeds from the sales of their Fair Trade products going straight back to providing food, building schools and orphanages and putting the smiles on faces of children who need it most. The stall is run by volunteers, so anyone with an hour or two to spare, please contact us; we would love to hear from you. Check out their website to be inspired by the work of this group of amazing souls.

We look forward to welcoming you at Westport Park for the July Foreshore Market. For further updates, log onto Facebook: The Foreshore Market.

focusinterview.

A R T S

artist profile

F E A T U R E

focusinterview.

Artist profile

Living the

VA L A L L E N

Nurturing her talent as an artist over the years has seen Val's passion for expressing the essence of landscape featured in many exhibitions.

W

here are you from originally, Val – and how long have you lived in the Hastings area?

I was born and grew up in Sydney on the North Shore. There followed some years living in Victoria before returning to Sydney, then hobby farming at Wingham for 6 years, and Þnally Port Macquarie from 1986 to the present.

When did you first begin to take art seriously ... were you a prolific creator from a young age?

After leaving school, my ambition was to make a career in art and to begin study with that aim. Circumstances changed then with a family death, and it was not possible.

Employment, family commitments, etc. put that possibility aside, until at last I was able to begin painting in mid life.

I then made every effort to increase my knowledge with study, a great deal of Ôhands onÕ painting, suburban exhibitions, workshops, including Willoughby Workshop (which was a turning point for me at that stage), several summer schools at the University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, plus private tuition from reputable artists while in Sydney.

Since living in Port Macquarie and particularly during the last 20 years, it has been possible to concentrate almost fully on my work. During this time I have been pleased to have been included in several group and travelling shows and to hold a number of solo exhibitions in the Hastings area, more recently a focus show at the Glasshouse.

Describe your work ... what is your style, what subjects do you like to capture, and what materials do you work with?

To describe my art practice is difÞcult for me. Colour has always been a strong focus, even at the very beginning, when I was doing a more Þgurative response. My environment is my source, which is a never ending exploration into the complexity of nature and indeed, people. Rather than give a detailed rendition, I try to search for and hopefully express the essence of the landscape or whatever subject is in mind. I would like to feel that the paintings

evoke a hopefully pleasant response, which may recall some memory of experience in their lives.

I mainly work with acrylic paint, though in the early days I used oils − and may do so again. Occasionally I have enjoyed portraiture, but mostly the outdoors is my strong motivation. My rather large garden is another rather consuming occupation.

What method do you use to create ... do you work from photos or memories captured in another time and place, or do you work in the moment?

I tend to work from my memories and experiences of life over so many years. I have a constant respect for the extraordinary beauty of our surroundings in this area and also for the contrast of harshness and dryness of other areas away from the coast − though not this year, with excessive rain!

Who has been an inspiration to you and helped fire up your creative streak?

It is hard to list those who have been an inspiration, as so many artists and people have inspired me along the way. I suppose the American Expressionists were an inßuence earlier, and from then on I have enjoyed so many abstract talented painters and others with different perspectives.

What pieces are you working on at the moment?

At present I am working on some paintings about the sea, mangroves and waterways in all their varying colours, moods Ð so much there, with each day a different concept.

What’s an artistic project you’d like to tackle one day ... I am hoping to do 2 or 3 larger works relating to the rainforest, which I am also very passionate about − and have been for many years. If these are successful and eventually pass my harsh criticism, hopefully there will be an opportunity to exhibit those later on.

Where can people view your artwork?

From time to time some of my paintings from the Glasshouse collection can be viewed when on show at the Glasshouse. I can be emailed at: vallenc@bigpond.com Thanks Val. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Arts F E A T U R E

When she was a little girl, Elise Reader dreamed of being a ballerina; a long way from the position she recently accepted with Fotomedia, as Video Editor on the Gold Coast . And although it doesn’t involve any dancing, Elise believes she has found her ‘dream’.

G

rowing up in Cresent Head, Elise played on the beaches and enjoyed the easygoing nature of the town, but decided to move to Port Macquarie to see what opportunities lay ahead. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Elise enrolled in a Multimedia course at North Coast TAFE Ð a decision that would change her life.

They were after someone with experience in more than just editing and through making short Þlms at TAFE, I gained multiple skills.

And I got the job!Ó Elise said.

This meant a sudden move to the Gold Coast, away from family and friends and starting fresh in a new town.

Thankfully, her work has kept her busy and although she misses everyone, Elise gets to work with some interesting people and loves the new experiences and challenges that come with it.

ÒI had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, but I did know that I loved music, lighting and computers. So I enrolled in ÒWe are currently working on a a Multimedia course to see what documentary for National would happen É this led to Geographic called Mad Way work experience on the Þlm South, that will be aired Dungoona, a traineeship r he later in the year. We also g in “After gain and job as Senior Editor lly na tio have a crew in Africa di tra stripes in a with NBN and now a e is Þlming documentaries, El , ry male indust great job on the Gold ue currently editing a in nt wanted to co Coast. Who would d an s feature length doco ill sk r growing he have thought I would ck lu r called Have You Got he y tr decided to be doing all this?Ó t.” the Guts? and a photo

on the Gold Coas

Her TAFE teacher, Steve Cutmore, approached her with an opportunity to follow up on the traineeship with NBN, and Elise has said that everything she learned was put to good use and advanced her ability to deliver to industry standards.

ÒThe course covered all aspects of Þlm production, and I gained lots of relevant industry contacts. Having the right equipment at your disposal and getting a feel for what it is really like Ôin the jobÕ were deÞnite advantages; in fact, we were using the same type of cameras at TAFE, as those used in the studio,Ó Elise said.

After gaining her stripes in a traditionally male industry, Elise wanted to continue growing her skills and decided to try her luck on the Gold Coast. She sent her resumŽ and show reel to Fotomedia and was surprised to get a call to come in for a chat. ÒI was quite excited and went to see them.

shoot with the Wallabys on Wednesday. Pretty cool!Ó she said.

ÒItÕs completely different to the work I was doing with NBN, which involved mostly 30 second advertising. The work I am doing now focuses on 90 minute documentaries and videos. ItÕs more of a story telling exercise, rather than the sales.Ó Although she is still waiting for her furniture to arrive, Elise has no regrets about the move. ÒI love Port Macquarie and although it was really hard to say goodbye, I knew I could always come back. I needed to expand my skills, which I didnÕt feel I could do here and all I took with me was whatever I could Þt in the car. So I am missing my Ôcreature comfortsÕ at the moment, but on the upside, thereÕs a great nightlife, lots of shopping and visitors for the upcoming V8 event!Ó

greater port macquarie focus 15

16 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

T h e We s t p o r t C l u b

For two out of the last three years, The Westport Club has be crowned 'Club of the Year', an achievement which has humbled and honoured the Club's staff and members.

Anthony Westman, General Manager, tells us more. ongratulations! The Westport Club Port Macquarie has just been named 'Club of the Year', which you also won in 2010. You must be immensely proud?

I am tremendously proud of the entire team at The Westport Club for their contribution to this wonderful achievement. Being awarded this honour for the second time has created just as much excitement and pride as it did when we won in 2010.

To achieve the status of Club of the Year is reward for our focus on continuous improvement in our products, our customer service and building strong relationships with our local community.

Our members and our wonderful team are the key to our success, and this type of recognition shows we are not only delivering on our focus, but delivering it with excellence.

On what basis is the 'Club of the Year' judged, and how tough is the competition from bigger metro clubs?

The ClubsNSW Awards for Excellence are industry based awards held annually. We were judged against our peers through written submissions and site visitations by the judges.

There are three club categories, small, medium and large. The Westport Club falls into the medium size category, and there are approximately 500 medium-size clubs in NSW. For the 2012 awards, written submissions are based on the Club’s activities during the 2010-2011 financial year.

To be considered for Club of the Year, we had to enter a minimum of seven categories. We received finalist status in Outstanding Community Leadership and Engagement; Encouragement of Community Sport and Recreation; Outstanding Gaming Management; Outstanding Entertain-

ment; Outstanding People Management; Club Governance and Stewardship; Financial Management and, of course, Club of the Year.

The Club picked up two other awards.

Please tell us about those?

We won Outstanding Community Leadership and Engagement (which we’ve won for the last three consecutive years), and Outstanding Entertainment. We also received a highly commended for Encouragement of Community Sport and Recreation.

In winning the Outstanding Entertainment Award, the judges felt that we upheld our positioning statement of 'Relax with us'.

Our free live entertainment through Riverside Jazz every Sunday, specialist raffles such as the Indulgence Raffle and major promotions like the Wheel of Cash were judged as being very popular with our members.

This is the fourth consecutive year the Club has received recognition for our contribution to Community Sport and Recreation. It is testament to the strong partnerships we have built with our 13 Sub and Affiliated Clubs and the sporting-based events we sponsor, such as the Annual Dragon Boat Challenge races.

The 'Outstanding Community Leadership and Engagement Award' really does highlight the importance of Clubs in our regional communities and the positive impact they have. What are some of the initiatives and events The Westport Club have been involved in this past year?

Westport’s Christmas under the Stars and Fireworks Spectacular events are wonderful community events which are held on the foreshore area in front of the Club and attract several thousand participants to each event.

We have a strong relationship with The Salvation Army, who is one of the beneficiaries

of Christmas under the Stars and the benefaclaunched in July of that year. tor for the annual Red Shield Appeal Breakfast, We have become a Club that's more in tune which is subsidised by the Club. with the local community. The growth in our The Club has been a major sponsor for membership base from 7,000 to over 12,000 in two Max Potential leadership programs. Max the last 5 years is evidence that we are listening.

Potential provides professional development Our team has also grown from 55 (in 2007) in coaching for community leaders who, in to nearly 80 at the end of June. Through our turn, work as volunteer coaches to the young recruitment process, we have attracted staff leaders. Young leaders from schools who are more aligned to our Vision and the community are coached, and the style of customer service over a 22 week course, to that we deliver. e help them maximise their The Club’s Vision is to m “ We have be co in e potential during the make a significant cona Cl ub th at m or l ca lo e final years at school and tribution to the quality tu ne w ith th th ow gr e Th . ity beyond. It also encourof community life. In co m m un p hi rs be em m ages youth to focus on r the last fi nancial year, in ou to over 00 7,0 om fr se the local community and the Club’s contribution ba st 5 ye ar s 12 ,0 00 in th e la ways that they can work to the community and at we are is ev id en ce th to improve it. sport was over $500,000. lis te ni ng . ” The Westport Club/ What plans does the Dymocks Childrens’ Charities Club have for future departnership has helped children velopments or initiatives to fall in love with reading through the improve on its services? donation of hundreds of books to schools and Later this year, the Club will launch another community preschools since it was launched in project associated with our ongoing commit2009. ment to our Literacy program. This will further What are some of the significant changes strengthen our pledge to our Vision. that have taken place over the last few We have changed our Members Jackpot Proyears that have helped create the platmotion to increase by $1,000 per week, which form for being a contender at the annual can now jackpot up to $50,000. awards?

Our Executive Chef is currently working on Our doors were able to remain open, and the an exciting new menu for our casual dining Club’s identity enhanced through the commitrestaurant, AQUA, which is due for release in ment and unequivocal support the Club has late August. received from the Directors and Executive of the Our aim is to exceed our members’ expecMingara Leisure Group since amalgamation in tations through warm, caring and authentic 2006. service, superior products and to provide a reThe Club underwent a $2.3 million building laxed environment. We will continually explore refurbishment in 2007, which has resulted in opportunities for us to deliver this. a continual upward surge in trade since we reThanks Anthony. greater port macquarie focus 17

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focusinterview. rview.

M O R E

F U N

T H A N

A

W I I

Matt Kelly and Richard Higgins’ combined comedic talents come together to enthral audiences aged from 5 to 500-million … in a show that is truly More Fun than a Wii! Don’t miss this unforgettable performance at the Glasshouse on July 13. i guys. I have to say, owning a Wii myself, that it’s a fairly entertaining pastime. Why do you reckon you’re more fun than a Wii? Matt: Well – now there’s a challenge! Does your Wii throw up on you?

No – not recently!

Matt: Ohhh – well there you go! We’re like a Wii that comes out of the screen. Our show is very interactive.

Richard: But a Wii IS very interactive – that’s what you’re saying. You just shot a torpedo straight into our marketing! You do know we’re talking about a Nintendo Wii, don’t you?

Matt: Ohhh – I thought you were talking about the one you do in the morning!

Richard: No, no, no. Nintendo Wii! Matt: Well, it’s a lot more fun than that!

You two are a barrel of laughs! How did you come up with the concept for the show?

Richard: Matt and I have been doing comedy together now, on and off, for about 10 years.

We kept coming up with ideas for our own kids’ show, so we made a list of all the things we’d like to put in the show, and that’s how we came up with this show.

How many years have you been developing the show?

Matt: It’s been on the road for 3 years …

Richard: But before that, we were probably thinking about it for 3 or 4 years …

Matt: I’m 32, and I’ve been told I was stupid since I was born. So in this way, it’s been in development for 32 years!

Richard: Even in the womb you were an idiot!

You’ve both performed for adults as well.

Are kids a particularly tough gig?

Matt: Totally. If a kid’s bored, they’ll let you know!

Richard: It’s kind of a fine line being able to ride their amazing energy. You want them to be awake, and engaged, and laughing … but you also don’t want them to storm the stage and tear you “ You take hich limb from limb! chocolate, w da nd is nice, an The subject matter of your burger, which m ha show has been described d then nd is nice, an ate into ol oc as everything from tea ch t pu rger … bu m the ha Richard: He doesn’t really! towel aliens to … well, g en you’re goin th How tough is it really to ic at the sky’s the limit, really! m le into a prob engage such a wide age .

What are some of the topics ea ” ar range in your audiences? you cover?

Richard: If I may answer a Matt: Well … there’s this secret question about a funny show in a that all Nans have, that we expose in the serious way, I think there is heaps of stuff that show. people genuinely laugh at. It’s a genuinely Oh really? good comedy show … like a Pixar film, or an Matt: Yes. All Nannas are secretly Ninjas.

English Pantomime … and certain Monty Python Richard: You don’t hang out with your Nan all sketches that are silly, fun and engaging, and the time, do you? You see her at times, then at people of all ages love them. It just comes other times you don’t see her. So this is a story naturally to us … obviously we avoid certain about what she does when you’re looking the subjects, but we just get up on stage and play other way … with our audience, and there’s a joy in that.

Matt: Also, we make a sandwich that has all How do you get the kids involved in the the most disgusting things in the world you can show? Do you get them up on stage at all? think of on it.

Richard: Yes, there are a couple of audience Richard: Well, no – not really. The sandwich interactions, us going out into the audience, and has all of the nicest things on it, but they’re all also us talking to the audience directly – there’s put together. That’s what makes it disgusting. no fourth wall in our show.

You take chocolate, which is nice, and a Matt: We also get a dad up on stage. And they hamburger, which is nice, and then put chocolate can be so boring! into the hamburger … then you’re going into a Richard: So many bad jokes … problematic area.

Matt: Generally the dads we get on stage Ewww … are we talking about a virtual always seem to have had baked beans for sandwich here, or do you actually eat the breakfast … real thing?

Richard: Yes – which is really weird!

Matt: We make that sandwich. It has 14 Sounds … interesting! So, all in all, what ingredients on it – and then I eat it. else can you tell us about the show, and And you’re still alive to tell the tale … why should Port Macquarians go and watch Matt: I’ll tell you a little secret. I throw it all up!

you guys?

Richard: Our show was nominated for the best show in the Melbourne Comedy Festival a few years ago, and I think we were the only kids’ show to ever be nominated for that award. We have a really amazing comedy scene in Australia, and it only exists because people go to see live comedy.

So for the people of Port Macquarie – take a risk … come and see two guys you may not have seen on TV; we guarantee we will put on a good show, and you will laugh.

Matt: I’d also like to add that if you’ve ever taken your kids to see a Wiggles show, and you thought there wasn’t enough vomit – come and see our show.

Richard: And … the kids will be doing something which is not looking at a screen – which is kind of amazing nowadays!

Thanks guys – you’ve been a whole bundle of fun, and I’m sure your show will be a sellout. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

13

See More Fun than a Wii at the Glasshouse on July 13 at 11am. Tickets cost $22.50 adult, $18.50 child and $75 family (2 adults, 2 children).

Phone the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au for details.

greater port macquarie focus 19

focusinterview.

Suzie For a visually stunning performance that features strength, coordination and flexibility, visit the Glasshouse on July 14 to experience Polesque.

One of the talented performers, Suzie Q, gives us an overview …

H

ow did you start learning pole dancing?

I began pole dancing when I was working in a Gentleman’s Club in 2000. I had a background in gymnastics – so hanging around upside down felt quite natural to me! I was also working as an aerobics instructor at the time (I was part of the Aerobics Oz Style team). When the first pole studio opened up in Australia, I was lucky enough to get a job there as a teacher. I now own my own school in Western Sydney – Suzie Q Pole Studio.

How much training do you have to do to stay in top condition?

Because of my schedule, I end up doing some kind of ‘training’ every day – between teaching, rehearsing and performing, I’m kept pretty active.

Keeping fit and healthy is really important to me, so I’m really lucky to have a job that essentially pays me to work out.

Who are the other people you perform with in the show?

I have two aerial bases that I work with (the base is the person who holds the flyer – me!) My fiancée, Toby J, with whom I perform Double Trapeze, Adagio, Double Lyra and Double Pole; and a close friend, Rony, from Aerial Artistry on the Gold Coast, with whom I perform synchro Lyra and our favourite Aerial Cube act.

Interestingly, Toby also performs and works with Rony’s boyfriend, Shane, and together they own a male entertainment company, Entertain-Hers. All four of us are forever travelling between the Gold Coast and Sydney for rehearsals and business meetings!

Living in different states, is it hard to get together for training?

We are constantly on the lookout for sale airfares and cheap flights! Luckily,

20 greater port macquarie focus.

we all have very similar personalities and work ethics, so when we do get to see each other, we train really hard.

Because we are exercising so much, we also spend a lot of our time together cooking and eating. Rony has a very strict diet, with limited carbs. The boys tend to load up on ice cream and chocolate, and I’m somewhere in between.

Pole dancing is obviously a great way to keep fit. Why is it so popular?

I think pole is so popular because it is an all over body workout – it encompasses elements of strength training, cardio and also improves your flexibility and overall co-ordination.

Because you are doing body weight exercises, you see results much faster than you would using dumbbells at the gym.

Plus, pole classes are fun! It’s not about doing a certain set of reps; you’re just trying to learn a new move – so you do it over and over again and before you know it you’ve done the equivalent of 20 chin ups! I love my job as a pole instructor, because in addition to the health benefits and improvement in my students’ body shapes, I also get to witness a huge improvement in their body confidence.

You and your performance partner took your act to Australia’s Got Talent. What was this experience like?

Toby J and I made it to the Semi Finals of Australia’s Got Talent this year. We created a new act/apparatus, which was a combination of pole and trapeze (Poleeze? Trapole?) Sadly, we didn’t make it through to the finals, but we were so excited to have what we love to do featured on national television!

How dangerous is performing ... have you ever suffered any injuries?

Little aches and pains are part of the job. Ironically however, a lot of our

injuries tend to come from mundane every day activities (Toby strained his neck last week drying off after a shower!)

Aerial work is inherently dangerous – we perform acrobatic manoeuvres quite high (up to 8 metres in the air – it doesn’t help that I’m afraid of heights) and we don’t use any kind of nets or safety mats.

Communication is vital between myself and my partners. We've little signals that we use to let the other know they’re safe.

Describe the show you’ll be presenting at the Glasshouse ...

Polesque at the Glasshouse has an all-female cast, including the reigning Miss Pole Dance Australia – Cleo The Hurricane. I will be performing a solo pole act, as well as duo Lyra and Aerial Cube act with Rony. I try to have a strong character and story through my pole dancing – I believe it’s not what you do on a pole, but how you do it.

Where to from here for you?

Toby and I travel a lot – we are contracted to Sexpo here in Australia as well as South Africa, and we usually get a few months a year teaching, performing and judging pole competitions around Europe and the UK. We’ve got some local trips coming up – Miss Pole Dance Victoria in Melbourne and Summer Pole Camp on the Gold Coast, as well as two big pole/aerial conventions in the UK, where we will be guest performing and instructing.

Thanks Suzie Q. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

14

See Polesque at the Glasshouse on July 14 at 8pm. Tickets cost $69.90 adults/$65.90 concession.

Phone the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au for details.

“See the Pacific Highway - A Musical Review live from 6 - 22 July 2012 at the Players Theatre.”

Pacific Highway - A Musical Review This is a brand new show written and directed locally by Cameron Marshall and Peter Tregilgas.

There’s a few unexpected turns, road works, detours, holiday traffic; it’s life in the fast lane in this show. A revue is topical and pertinent to the lives of the audience. It identifies local issues, characters and explores them with comedy, without fear or favour. The show has several concurrent themes, including the ever reliable but a little too knowledgeable GPS as the narrator. The Faceless Men; politician and advisor from Macquarie St and Canberra – there always seems to be a reason why the Highway is yet to be finished. Several skits relate to the dysfunctional family – the Lanes.

The sparkling Jewel Lane (she's from the south) and her passing relationship with Ken Worth, which meets with tragedy when her true love Mack takes a Uturn. Jewel's mother (Winnie Bago), a relaxed type, is still dealing with her own relationship issues with Jewel’s father Singh L Lane (from Woolgoolga); they never married, of course. Music and dance will complement the revue – the Construction Chorus, including all the trades from lolly pop operators to lorry men – will grace the stage with ballet and a version of the village people classic: It’s Fun to Work for the Rrr RTA. The motoring public has not been forgotten, and several sketches relate to anyone who has ever been behind a wheel.

Without giving away all the surprises, all the signposts are pointing to a laugh out loud … wheels on fire, great show. From the moment the audience arrives at the theatre, they will be engaged – even the café will become a 'Driver Reviver'. The show will run approx. 2 hours and will be in two halves – there and back. But be careful with those interval drinks; some of the police vehicles are unmarked.

Check out what's new in Willow House and Baby.

Willow House and Baby along Clarence Street in Port Macquarie have recently added to the wide and wonderful variety of homely treasures and unique gift lines. With the ever popular Willow Tree flying off the shelf, hurry in to make sure you don't miss out on your favourite piece.

Who out there is familiar with the beautiful Kelly Rae Roberts collection? Come in store and see the beautiful new range of figurines and wall art.

Willow House and Baby have also introduced the very delicate and hand made porcelain collection from Franz.

Each porcelain artwork is uniquely crafted to convey cultural implications. Franz's designers apply their originality to their work, and create an exquisite collection of porcelain pieces with meticulous care.

With new items arriving daily, treat yourself and take a look around; there is so much on offer, so much variety and definitely something for everyone's taste.

Open Monday - Saturday, 9am - 6pm and Sundays, 10.30am - 3pm.

greater port macquarie focus 21

focuseditorial.

Christmas Parties, Engagements, Weddings, Birthday Celebrations, High Teas and Corporate Events.

Community College.

Congratulations to the Port Macquarie Community College, who have been selected as finalists in the 2012 NSW Training Awards.

S

ilverSpoon Catering & Events is the premier catering company in the Hastings Region – renowned for its fresh produce, delicious menu designs and the ‘x factor’ service.

Venues include Bliss Beachouse, Flynns Beach Surf Club, Tacking Point Surf Club, Smokey Cape Lighthouse, and Douglas Vale Vineyard, to name a few.

The team at SilverSpoon takes pleasure in tailor making menus to suit your event, with their most popular menu designs featured in their extensive canapé selection – an array of bite size delicacies and noodle boxes to tempt the taste buds. Other menu favourites include their two and three-course selection and buffets. Brigid, Steve, Lauren and the dedicated team work together to handmake each piece of the delicious menu

design. Select from scrumptious canapés made from local King Prawns and Hastings River oysters, or treat yourself to a miniature sticky date pudding with a drizzle of rich butterscotch sauce. From elegant cocktail receptions to a Mediterranean style buffet, SilverSpoon has the solution to your function and event catering needs.

SilverSpoon can cater at any venue of your choice, including private homes and gardens, businesses, vineyards, waterfront surf clubs and marquees. SilverSpoon’s dedication to excellence and individuality has seen this local company become a fixture on the cuisine circuit.

Celebrate in style with SilverSpoon Catering & Events.

View our menus online at: www.silverspooncatering.com.aus

G

eneral Manager Leanne Alexander said, “The awards application is the perfect platform for us to showcase our College’s commitment to providing quality vocational education and training. We wanted to raise the profile of the college, and this allows us a unique opportunity to celebrate our achievements with our dedicated staff, trainers and students. It also provides the College with networking opportunities and recognises excellence in the training sector. We are very excited and proud to have reached the next stage of the judging process.”

The NSW Training Awards are conducted annually by the NSW Department of Education and Communities (DEC) to recognise outstanding achievement in the vocational education and training sector. The awards honour and reward the achievements of students, trainers/teachers, training organisations, large and small employers.

There are 13 award categories, and our local community college is a finalist in the ‘Small Training

Provider of the Year’ category. Leanne, Cheryl Eslick and Janette Jones will attend the awards presentation event on Tuesday 28 August in Darling Harbour.

NSW has a proud history of celebrating excellence in vocational education and training since 1955.

The Port Macquarie Community College has been committed to providing an educational service to the community of Port Macquarie and surrounding district since 1984. The vocational courses we offer reflect the needs of local individuals, community groups, businesses and local industry.

Ms Alexander would like to thank the local community for its support and sees a bright future for the college.

“We are actively networking with local business providing customised training and workshops to suit their needs. Fortunately we are large enough to provide the quality facilities, courses and trainers but small enough to provide the flexibility and personal service that employers and staff need to fit in with their busy schedules.”

keeping fit is no sweat.

Using the village gym is an easy way for residents to stay fit and healthy.

While you’re living it up, your family will have peace of mind that you’ll be thriving in a warm and friendly community with four levels of care.

22 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus 23

Greater Port Macquarie

Cacao Fine Chocolates and Macaroons, smooth Macchiato coffee and Salmon, cream cheese, rocket and capers on rye from The Block.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 greater port macquarie focus focus.

eat.

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar

Café Buzz

Enjoy Spinnakers new à la carte winter menu with family and friends.

Café BUZZ is the region’s first Coffee Company. BUZZ showcases the full range of freshly roasted BUZZ Coffee, BUZZ Tea and local produce.

The BUZZ Pide is traditional Turkish Bread layered with salami or leg ham, tomato, Spanish onion, feta or tasty cheese, rocket and finished with a tapenade or pesto …

TOASTED! Finger licking!

Baby Quiche baked fresh every morning, could be Quiche Lorraine, Pumpkin, Feta ... or a special! Can be eaten solo but loves to dance with a salad and dressing.

BUZZ coffee has been making people smile since we opened the doors in the dark ages, you know it will be good every time!

See you at your local BUZZ!!

Chef Scott Trotter and his team will tantalise your taste buds with the new menu selections, including Thai red pumpkin curry, slow braised beef and Guinness pie, and fresh lobster prepared to your liking!

Spoil yourself with Chef Tina’s amazing delights, which bring the world’s best secrets to your sweet tooth!

Escape the winter blues and enjoy time out dining at Spinnakers Restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

SPECIAL EVENT – July 28 Spinnakers Cognac Evening!

Head chef Scott Trotter

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar at Quality Resort Sails 20 Park Street, Port Macquarie at the roundabout opposite Settlement City t 6589 5200

Port Macquarie: Grant St (opposite library) t 6583 5756.

The Marina t 6583 6767. Peachtree Walk (CBD) t 6583 7797 Laurieton: Bold St t 6559 7744 w www.buzzcoffee.com.au

open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 6.45am, 7 days a week.

open breakfast and lunch.

Garlic Naan, Lamb with Beer & Honey and Mango Lassi.

Authentic Thai Orchid

Sara’s Kitchen

Why not treat yourself and your family to the exotic flavours of Thailand presented at their best! Outdoor and indoor dining areas, traditional and relaxed atmosphere. Dine in or takeaway available.

Banquet menus available for group bookings.

Fully licensed restaurant – BYOB (wine only).

Home delivery – $30 min; fee applies.

Perfect venue for birthday, anniversary dinners.

With creativity and innovation, do any job with passion, says Sunil, the

2011 Port Macquarie Business Awards finalist.

FINALIST: Best Thai on the North Coast Finalist 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011.

Next to Rivers Menswear, 4 Bay St, Port Macquarie t 6584 9049 open Tuesday - Sunday, from 5pm.

head chef at Sara’s Kitchen. This we can see with his new items, which are the talk of the town. • Lamb with Beer and Honey – a sweet and spicy (med hot) curry which goes well with rice, as well as breads.

• Gujrati Tepla Bread – made from millet, wheat and gram flour, with fenugreek leaves and spices and goes well with meat and veg curries.

For seafood lovers, they have Prawn Masala and Sara’s Special Fish Moilee. Sara’s Kitchen is a small take away/restaurant with big flavours Owners May and Paul

and is popular with vegan and gluten free customers. Indian groceries

Chef Paula Stait.

available. BRING IN THIS ADVERT TO RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT DURING JULY. *Excludes Thali, lunch specials & South Indian Specials

Shop 2 Macquarie Waters, 11 Clarence St, Port Macquarie t 6583 8116 w www.saraskitchen.com.au open Tuesday to Saturday from 11.30am ‘til close.

Sunday and Monday from 4pm ‘til close. greater port macquarie focus 25

eat.

Beechwood Hotel

Off the Hook

Take a hinterland drive to Beechwood and have a bite and a pint; the pub that has more character than your grandad’s old car.

Our food is made to order, with a lot of local produce.

Home made pizzas all day every day.

Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh and employs thirteen staff. We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, snacks, salads and of course, fish and chips. We have added a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our favourite, the Flathead fillets. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after 4pm are our extra special nights; pay just $9.90 for two fillets of fish and chips. We also have a complete selection of Coca-Cola beverages to quench your thirst, including the popular Goulburn Valley milk and juice ranges.

Have you ever ridden a horse to the pub?

Book a Bellrowan Valley Pub Ride; there is nothing like it!

Special – James Estate Verdelho; 6 bottles for $55 14 July – Beechwood Football Club ‘old boys’ 90 year reunion 22 July – The Men’s Stew Off (who will win this year?)

Owners Michael and Tracy Waind.

735 Beechwood Rd, Beechwood t 6585 6170

The friendly staff.

There’s nothing better than a meal by the edge of the beautiful Hastings River.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. t 6584 1146 open 7 days, from 11am - late EFTPOS available, phone orders welcome.

open Friday, Saturday, Sunday lunch from 12pm.

Friday & Saturday dinner from 6pm.

Dory fillet with lobster cream sauce.

Scampis Seafood Bar & Grill

Fiasco Ristorante + Bar

Bring the workmates, family and/or friends down to Scampis Seafood Bar and Grill and warm up with one of our $15 lunch specials. Let your tastebuds be treated to something special.

Located at the end of the Jetty Strip, Fiasco Ristorante offers an authentic Italian dining experience – with award winning cuisine and service, together with an extensive international wine and beer listing, it has featured in the prestigious SMH Good Guide for the last six years.

Live music every Sunday afternooon.

Daily Board Specials.

Dine in or takeaway.

Indoor and outdoor dining overlooking Town Beach.

Bookings requested for dinner time and during the holiday period.

40 William Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 7200 open Tuesday - Sunday during winter

26 greater port macquarie focus.

Owners Mark and Jackie Holt

Fiasco Bar has a relaxed feel, and the bar menu offers light meals.

Especially popular is our special woodfired Bar Pizza ... a favourite with locals and visitors alike – still only $10 – available Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm.

Head Chef Stefano Mazzina

22 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour Jetty t 6651 2006 w www.fiascorestaurant.com.au open: Ristorante open Tues to Sat from 6pm.

Bar open Tues to Sat from 5pm.

eat.

Waffles with vanilla ice cream, mixed berries maple syrup.

Assiette de Charcuterie.

The BLOCK

Rainforest Café

The Block coffee and chocolate is Port’s newest little gem located in the CBD Coles building. It is the region’s most extensive specialty chocolate establishment, featuring some of Australia’s premier artisan chocolate makers. Choose from over 20 pieces in the chocolate bar, wonderful figurines or unique single origin bars roasted and milled right here in Australia.

The Block has a selection of beverages, breakfast and lunch plates, and a variety of sweet treats fresh daily.

Don’t forget to stop into The Block to take a break from shopping, and what better way to start the day than with a cup of your favourite coffee, paired with delicious free-range smashed eggs on Morpeth sourdough, or toasted banana bread with ricotta, mixed berries and maple syrup?

The national French holiday, Bastille Day, is celebrated on July 14, and the Rainforest Café will be celebrating for the whole month of July with French food and festivities.

Head chef Jean-Louis will be serving a traditional French menu, including Assiette de Charcuterie, Seafood Boudin Blanc and Tarte Tatin.

It is not only the menu that has a French flavour this July; the staff have also brought out their berets and tricolour clothes to celebrate Bastille Owner Greg Cacace.

Day, and French music completes the atmosphere. we invite you to join us this month at The Rainforest Café.

BOOKINGS RECOMMENDED.

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie t 6582 4444

New Coles Building, CBD Port Macquarie t 6584 4141 w www.theblockcoffee.com.au open breakfast, lunch and coffee, 7.30am to 6pm.

Plenty of parking available.

open 7 days, 9am - 4pm for breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea B.Y.O.

Crispy skin Atlantic salmon with prawn colcannon, prosciutto crisps with a basil and lime aioli.

Beef Wellington.

Bluewater Bar and Restaurant

Zebu bar + grill

There is always something happening at Bluewater.

Keep the fires burning this winter at Zebu Bar+Grill.

Live music Wednesday and Friday nights and Sunday afternoons, showcasing local artists. Throughout the week we have $15 schnitzel nights on Mondays and Wednesdays; Tuesdays are our 2 for 1 VIP. The very popular $12 steak night is also on Wednesday nights. Lunches for $12.50 Tuesday to Friday. Thursday nights kids eat free and of course, Friday has happy hour between 5 - 6pm; happy hour Sundays from 3pm to 4pm.

Fires lit daily at 5pm – get cosy with a warming glass of your favourite drop, a few friends and some fantastic winter fare.

Bluewater Bar run their courtesy bus every Friday and Saturday night; we can pick you up from home and drop you back when the night is over ... no taxi fare, and you can leave the car at home.

Ocean Street Flynns Beach Resort t 6583 5730 or 6583 9073 open 7 Days Monday 3pm-late TuesdaySunday 10am - late

Jean-Louis and Cherie Tostivint.

If you yearn for the tastes, sounds and ‘joie de vivre’ of France,

Diary Date: Wednesday 25 July at 7pm James Squire – Malt Shovel Brewery – Beer Degustation Dinner – 6 Beers + Courses to match.

Tickets available at reception or by contacting: The Crew at Bluewater.

kate_woodfoye@rydges.com Breakfast - Coffee - Cocktails - 10 Tap Beers Wood Fire Pizzas - Steaks - Seafood - Purveyors of Peak Coffee

Executive Chef Ben Holloway.

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie t 6589 2822 w www.zebu.com.au open 7 days, from 6.30am - late.

Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended. greater port macquarie focus 27

Come and share the amazing sunset view.

Warm up this winter at Griddle Bar & Grill.

Tell us about the new upstairs area that will be opening soon.

what are some of the other favourites on

The new upstairs multi-purpose area caters for all groups, from a table of two or ten, to a whole party of fifty. Sunset views overlooking the river make it the perfect location for alfresco dining or your next party or function.

It would definitely have to be the dessert waffles;

the menu?

they are a favourite amongst all of our customers down in Sydney, and surely they will become Port’s favourite as well!

Now fully renovated, how would you

What makes a dining experience at Griddle stand out from the rest?

describe the decor and atmosphere at

Basically, our menu is huge, with an extensive selection. We have made sure that we cater to all tastes and there is something for everyone.

If you come in with a table of ten for example, our menu is large enough that everyone will be able to eat what they feel like. Also, our portion sizes are value for money, and everything is done consistently to a high standard. The experience you have at Griddle is the difference between us and everybody else.

We wanted to make it sophisticated, but also

Renowned for serving the perfect steak,

relaxed atmosphere at Griddle Bar & Grill.

28 greater port macquarie focus

Griddle? family-friendly at the same time. When you come into Griddle, we want you want to feel warm – hence we have the fireplace and the inviting colours throughout. Griddle is a friendly place where you can just relax and be comfortable.

Bring the whole family- we have a great kids’ menu and can provide highchairs if needed.

Enjoy delicious meals, friendly service and a

Have you been to TG’s lately?

Warm up with the locals at their favourite place to enjoy a quality meal, a social drink and the smiling hospitality that the Town Green Inn has to offer. TG’s winter menu has delightfully heart warming meals for everyone’s palate. You will find plenty of steaks to choose from, with long term favourites Beef & Reef, as well as our 300g Sirloin. Why not try the newest addition, which is fast becoming the most popular – our Eye Fillet & Lobster Tail.

Pale Ale’, both now available on tap. Warwick

Lamb Shanks are still on the menu; however, Head Chef Cheryl Pavey’s favourite – Pork Cutlet oven roasted and stuffed w/walnuts sultanas and apple, drizzled w/ a spicy plum sauce is warming many on these cooler nights.

Hmmm ... the mouth waters.

sure to get everyone sizzling. Throughout the

TG’s has some new additions in the bar also!

A feature with the beers are the two local breweries, ‘Little Brewing Company’s Wicked Elf Pale Ale’ and ‘Black Duck Brewery’s Platypus

swimming finals.

Little and Al Owen, the two respective brewers, drop into TG’s often to have a beer with the customers and pass on their brewing secrets.

What’s coming up at TG’s? The Olympics will be the feature for July and August. On Friday 27 July there is a ‘Night in the Rafters’ Opening Ceremony party with DJ Corza. Our very own ‘Missile’ cocktail will be unleashed in support of Port Macquarie’s James Magnussen and is whole 2 weeks of the Olympics, TG’s will have flavours from around the world – cocktails and meals representing a different country each night. The highlight then is sure to be our live breakfast special viewing of ‘The Missile’s’ TG’s has something for everyone … delicious meals, sexy cocktails, craft beers, live sport and a fantastic indoor kids’ play area.

focusinterview.

DaeHun Jung YUU SUSHI HEAD CHEF

Yuu Sushi has been a big hit with locals, bringing something different and exciting to the dining out experience. We fi nd out more

about the range of fresh food on offer from the head chef.

T

ell us a bit about yourself and your background in the industry? I first started cooking when I was in the Army over in Korea. I then moved to Sydney to pursue my dreams as a qualified chef. I have worked in many of Sydney’s top sushi trains and We make Japanese restaurants; the everything most famous would be fresh every the Mokoto in Sydney city morning before fish and Chatswood. service, and our

“

What was it that attracted you to Port Macquarie?

t and chicken is cu ise im ax m to y da that freshness.”

The beautiful surroundings and coastal lifestyle. I had only ever lived in Sydney and wanted to see more of this beautiful country. It is such a nice place here, and Port Macquarie offers so much; everyone should come here and see how beautiful the coast really is.

little, the choice is yours. We are always adding to the train, and there is definitely something for everyone.

What has been the most popular dish?

With such a wide variety of menu options, it has been hard to see the favourite dish.

Our sashimi tasting plates have been a huge success, as have our catering platters.

Ranging from $40 - $100, there is a platter for everyone and every occasion.

Yuu Sushi has been a big hit. Why do you think that is?

There’s more to Yuu Sushi than just the train, isn’t there? What else is on the menu?

Yuu Sushi has brought something different and fun into Port Macquarie’s eating out market.

We make everything fresh every morning before service, and our fish and chicken is cut that day to maximise freshness. The train, of course, is a favourite with the kiddies, and the help yourself works for all – whether you want a lot or a

Yes, that’s right. We have so much available – from tempura prawns, hot udon noodles and main meals, all under $18. As mentioned before, we’ve introduced our sashimi tastings plates, that our customers are loving. There’s so much variety, and there’s always something new waiting for you on the train. greater port macquarie focus 29

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

Neil Black.

What single thing best typifies Port Macquarie? No, silly, not potholes.

Tacking Point Lighthouse has given its name to a beach, suburb and numerous organisations and its image is a popular icon, despite its recent sad and sorry state. This month, Susie meets the man leading the push to restore the landmark to the condition it deserves. With it, Neil Black and helpers will probably also restore some much-needed civic pride. eil Black would prefer not to be written about. He’d rather this month’s profile be of a place, not a person. But the medium is the message and Black, a former academic, recognises that in order to highlight the place in question he has to stick his head up. So, in talking about the subject of our story - Port Macquarie’s Tacking Point Lighthouse and its restoration - inevitably I learn something of the man telling the tale. I discover he’s a dab hand in the kitchen. Circumstances today prevent us lunching, as is customary for this column, at The Stunned Mullet, and enjoying some of its delectable seafood. Instead, meeting him mid-afternoon, I find Black himself has prepared an attractive platter of finger food to nibble on as we chat over the dining table in his own home - appropriately, close by the lighthouse’s location. The adjacent kitchen is immaculate (“tidy kitchen, tidy mind” as the - modified saying goes) and, arriving home later, Pauline Black vouches for her husband’s expertise as the family cook. The “circumstances” that have pre-empted our Stunned Mullet lunch turn out to be a pressing engagement with his bridge partner for their regular weekly game. I can understand the importance of that, since bridge played a significant part in transforming my husband, and bridge partner, into my ex-husband.

Bridge players will understand.

Black has been officially retired for years yet is more gainfully employed than ever. Golf is also on his weekly agenda, along with work on a council consultative panel on governance (its findings on our pending election of a new set of councillors worth another story, another time), membership of our local Tertiary Education Steering Committee (developing greater university and TAFE diploma education opportunities

30 greater port macquarie focus.

for locals), presidency of Port Macquarie Meals Service (including Meals on Wheels), regular trips with Pauline to visit their grandchildren in Sydney, some travel, and gardening (he’s fell into disrepair and only the foundations are a highly-regarded horticulturist). Then there’s now visible. In recent years, the lighthouse had membership of the Rotary Club of Port Macbecome a pitiful sight, begging to be cared for, quarie Sunrise (so named because it holds 7am and it was Black who saw the need and acted breakfast meetings rather than Rotary’s usual on it to suggest his club colleagues take on the dinner meets) and his work as co-director task. In retrospect, he was the saviour of its Community Service Committee with all the right credentials; - and chairman of its Lighthouse among them, an eye for the Project Committee. environment, a formidable se u “ The lightho ird The lighthouse was professional reputation for th s ’ lia is Austra 79 18 adopted by the club two getting things done, and in ilt bu , st olde NSW years ago as its commuthe time and experience to the design of ct nity service project, quite a to tolerate and persist Colonial Archite d James Barnet an challenge. And not before with the eye-wateringly classified by th.e time. Pathetically dilapidated slow process of achieving National Trust ” and abused with graffiti, Port’s support from government most recognisable landmark authorities. desperately needed care and had Graduating from Sydney Uni, been comprehensively overlooked by a Black built a distinguished career as preoccupied council. Moreover, it was not purely an educationist, his remarkable achievements, the council’s territory: a trio of agencies has including luring millions in government funds, responsibility for the spot - the council for manultimately boosting him to the highest levels aging it, Crown Lands, which essentially owns of the system before retirement from his final it, and the RMS who keep the (now electric) post - Director of the North Coast Institute of TAFE, based in Port - at a youthful 60, in 2006. beacon operating. As one observer remarked: There’s a whole other story of his career in “a great opportunity for the three agencies academe … but, with an extensive background involved to pass the buck”. Yet the lighthouse in the Byzantine bureaucracy of TAFE, suffice to is Australia’s third oldest, built in 1879 to the say extracting lighthouse restoration funding is design of NSW Colonial Architect James Barnet right up Black’s alley. Fairly snappily on taking and classified by the National Trust. More than on the Tacking Point project, he, Rotary and the 20 shipwrecks had happened off Tacking Point council were able to snaffle a $40,000 NSW - on the “Pacific Highway” of its day - before it Government grant to remove rust, repair the was built, so it quickly proved its worth as a liferoof and repaint the tower. It was a big leap saver. Because of its elevated location the tower forward and a great improvement but only a itself did not have to be tall. The light ran on beginning; other issues include restoration of oil until 1919 and became automated in 1920. the keeper’s cottage footings, counteracting Subsequently, the lighthouse keeper’s cottage

erosion of the site, revegetation with endemic species, providing usable stairs for pedestrian traffic (currently a council sign blocks the way to using the stairs!), car parking, creating access for the disabled, and installing appropriate signage for the heritage site. Last year, Black and Rotary convened a community forum that attracted some 60 residents interested in seeing the restoration achieved. A master plan was needed, it was agreed. Meanwhile, activity on the project had uncovered two comprehensive plans (one with the help of Tacking Point Lions Club) that had been prepared years earlier and left to gather dust. (Black spreads neat, voluminous folders across the table - a comprehensive, well-ordered “library” he’s compiled and maintains for the project). With this reference material in hand, by September last year PMHC had had a revised master plan developed and after its public display in October some embellishments now include a raised viewing platform around the edge of the cottage footings, with interpretive signage, retaining walls, reclamation of the banks, and new stairs. The exterior of the tower has been restored and renewal is under way in the interior. Black is now awaiting hearing this month about two federal government grants he’s applied for via Rotary. One, for $20,000, is dependent on a PMHC $ for $ commitment to a total of $40,000, which should allow a lot of work to be done. Yet, I’m amazed to learn costing for the full project is around $335,000! “Oh yes,” Black admits calmly, “it’s a long-term project.” It’s one he seems happy to see to fruition.

One safely left with Tacking Point Lighthouse’s 21st century “caretaker”.

focuscolumn.

focuseditorial.

jason clifton.

Sydney Opera House and The Glasshouse are thrilled to present Satu & Friends from the 2012 Utzon Music Series as part of The Open House Project.

Real Black and Tan of a time ...

MGWGB … many of you will be count the number of times while conducting familiar with the first three letters tastings and working at cellar doors, when of the acronym. The second three offered a Pale Ale, the patron would challenge we added through necessity while it with, “I bet it’s not as good as the Little attending the first Great Australian Beer Creatures Pale Ale”. It seemed to be a popular Spectapular in Melbourne recently. Trying benchmark. It looks as though Little Creatures to taste as many beers in 4½ hours as we is set to join both James Squire and Knappstein possibly could meant that some of our words under Lion’s control. were a little hard to get out. We were all very It is not all bleak news for the brewery; impressed with the 35 - 40 beers we managed well, for us drinkers anyway, as before the to taste. Not a bad effort for a Saturday bean counters can get to work they have afternoon. Held in the Royal Exhibition Building released the second ‘Single Batch’ brew, ‘Day – Carlton, in true beer hall style, meant that of the Long Shadow Spiced Winter Ale’. This the long walk to the main doors, under the beer features a range of spices that are more watchful eye of the security people, was very commonly found in the kitchen spice rack. challenging. Thankfully, the hall had double The tasting notes read like something out of a doors, which were far easier to aim for! winter cookbook. “Christmas hints of allspice, The event was FANTASTIC. The queues cinnamon and nutmeg play with a yeast were a bit long, but the wait was well primed with dark muscovado sugar worth it. Everyone seemed to have delivering ripe fruit, molasses and a few new buddies by the end delicate spice … best savoured of them, all bragging about long into a cold winter night “ In news onlear slightly smal which breweries they had sipped slowly while solving scale, local k been to and the beers that those elusive problems of ac Bl y Brewer they’d tried. It was Comicthe world …chesterfield Duck are due to settle into me Con for beer lovers. Of and fireplace optional”. their new ho note was Emerson’s Kasmir Those paying attention and (nest??!?) ” Pilsner (a chilli infused lager), taking notes from the last Mike’s Heavy Petal (complete column will identify this beer as with infused hand-picked roses), and a perfect candidate to drink slightly Grand Ridge Sarsaparilla Stout. Not all beers warmer and out of a wine glass or brandy were a success, but there were none I couldn’t balloon. Get in quick though, as the last finish – bonus! release sold out quickly.

The 40 foot refrigerated containers, each In news on a slightly smaller scale, local with 120 taps installed, were magnificent. I Brewery Black Duck are due to settle into think the people running large sporting events their new home (nest!?). The brewery recently and music festivals could have learnt a thing acquired a larger brewing plant and are almost or two. You selected your beers, wrote the ready to begin brewing 800 litre batches of associated numbers (lowest to highest) on their range. Whispers have it that there is also your tasting paddle, and simply walked from a bottling plant being introduced, so keep an one end of the bar to the other while being eye out for their beers in your local bottleshop. loaded up by the friendly bar staff. Heaven! I They are aiming for an August opening, and have posted a ‘Wrap Up’ and photos on the the site will offer both a cellar door and shop beerinmmind Facebook page, so drop by and front. Very exciting news; watch this space! check them out.

Beer in Mind … it doesn’t matter whether The last month has proven to be a huge the glass is half empty or half full, the one on the Australian beer scene. Lion important thing is that there’s some left!

Nathan (owed by Japanese beer giant Kirin) are set to swallow up Little Creatures, White Rabbit, and PipSqueak Cider in a takeover bid worth $381 million. The Little Creatures Pale Ale consistently features in people’s top10 Scan the code and Australian Craft beers and is one of the best add Beer in Mind on Facebook. examples of a mild hop driven Ale. I cannot

he Open House Project is a threeyear partnership set to deliver across three principal strands – cultural engagement, education and tourism development.

The Utzon Music Series is a year-long Chamber Music program which allows audiences a rare opportunity to experience world renowned ensembles and soloists, programmed by Sydney Opera House Classical Music Producer, Yarmila Alfonzetti.

“I am very excited that I have been able to hand-pick the best concerts from the Utzon Music Series at Sydney Opera House in 2012, and that each of these artists has

jumped at the possibility to perform at The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie. These unique performances are filled with accessible repertoire and executed by the best of the best; I hope that our friends local to Port Macquarie enjoy this music as much as I do,” Ms Alfonzetti said.

the plug!

28

Satu Vanska & Friends Saturday 28 July, 2pm.

Call the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE & GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENT

SATU & FRIENDS A MUSICAL SOIRÉE Spectacular violinist and Assistant Leader of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Satu Vänskä, joins ACO Principal Cellist Timo-Veikko ‘Tippi’ Valve and piano virtuoso Benjamin Martin for an afternoon of glorious chamber music by RAVEL, FRANCK and BEETHOVEN.

Saturday 28 July, 2pm Tickets: $49.50 Adult, $44.50 Conc /Groups 6+, $39.50 Under 21/Student.

Glasshouse subscriber prices available.

BOOK NOW!

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie

greater port macquarie focus 31

focussocial.

Shelley Phillips & Luke Sprague

Grace Connor, Craig Yarnold, Sarah Ward, Daryl Connor Trish MacKenzie & David Relf.

eel ike a bit of travel? I have been gallivanting all over the country of late, with events in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with the best part of all the travels undoubtedly being the return journey to Port Macquarie (and the amazingly helpful and welcoming staff at the local airport!). It has been a case of planes, trains and automobiles for me, all over the eastern seaboard, utilising every kind of transport in existence!

My fave event of all the cities would have to be at Doltone House in Jones Bay Wharf Sydney, with keynote speaker Carrie Bickmore of The Project.

Deborah Hutton, Natalie Gruzlewski and our very own Linda Hall were also on the speakers list. Fab venue and speakers, and an absolutely mouthwateringly divine array of food was showered on guests throughout the day, including macaroon towers, rocky road buffets, tiramisu cups, French toast with Canadian maple syrup and a super naughty hot Belgian waffle station … hungry yet?

Bluewater Bar & Grill was the venue for the thirtieth birthday of the lovely Nicole Small, who shared the celebration with long-time friend, Rodney Yates. The birthday pair celebrated with 70 guests, including Rodney’s wife, Emma, and Nicole’s closest friends and family, who travelled from all over Qld and NSW to be a part of the big night. Guests chowed down on mini Wagyu beef burgers, salt and pepper squid and a delicious two tier cookies and cream and caramel mud cake from Theresa at Atmosphere Cakes in Port Macquarie.

The pair chose the theme of ‘Black and Bling’,

F

32 greater port macquarie focus.

social scene.

with Kate Wood-Foye from Rydges Port Macquarie

with the birthday girl wearing a gorgeous black sparkling cocktail dress with blue sparkly heels.

Guests, including Courtney Walder, Adrienne and Trudy Basil, Clara Gardner and Andy Hatton, Sarah and Lucas Ward, Megan and Lance Dekker and many more got down and dirty to DJ buddies Ashley Blenkinzee and Josh Steines, who played some of Nicole’s fave tunes. The party kicked on, with guests heading into town and kicking on at Zebu.

Happy birthday, Nicole & Rod. We were part of the crew that headed back to Zebu to enjoy some of the funked out and flarey action of DJ Shimon at the ‘70s tribute – Zebu Night Fever. Sadly, the night had to end ... with drinks and giggles shared with many.

St Columba celebrated their 10 year anniversary, with a ball for 260 guests in their new Iona Centre.

The theme for the evening was ‘Tootsies, Tiaras and Tuxedos’. Needless to say, the glamour stakes were high, with guests including Jenny and Duncan MacArthur, Tiffany and Pat Slack-Smith, Scott and Debra Facey, Sue and Paul Jogever, Sean and Kristine Edwards, Angela and Greg Smith, Debra and Michael Coghlan, to name but a few from the elegant crowd, who all got their glam rags on to celebrate with fellow parents and faculty.

Much to my dismay, guests were asked to forgo stilettos and don bare feet or slippers with their ball gowns to save the flooring surface of the venue – thank God for phone a friend and the invention of the wedge – technically not a high heel! The centre was transformed into a black and white feathered fantasy, with a live performance from Faulty Towers and entertainment from the Bounty Hunters.

Jason Harris and Sarah Armitstead

Thanks to our Peak table for an absolute hoot of a night – thanks also to Mr Greg Smith, who partook in a dubious dance off with the menfolk of our ensemble, followed by some questionable dance choreography, including an accidental sucker punch to an unsuspecting guest’s nose … ahem … not mentioning any names! A fab and funny night.

Congrats to St Columba and the committee, who pulled off a wonderful event.

Sarah Armistead put on a fabulous fortieth fancy dress bash for fiancée Jason Harris of Allegiance Combat & Fitness Centre recently, with 65 guests celebrating with all the glitz and glamour that is Vegas. High rollers, pimps, showgirls and Vegas brides were just some of the guests helping Jason party into his 40th year. Guests, including Gemma and Jason Clifton, Paul Gillespie, Emily and Nathan Green, Sam Bastin, Craig Burman, Troy McVeay and Dustin James partook in the celebration. The theme and decorations were put together by Sarah Jean Creative Entertainment, including Vegas decor, fancy dress, cake and balloons.

Guests enjoyed poker, roulette, a prize wheel, Twister and table tennis and tore up the rug with a dance floor and DJ. A special shout out to Shawn Mejeski and Claire Lazarou, who travelled from Sydney and Brisbane to party with the birthday boy. Happy birthday, Jason!

The gorgeous Shelley Phillips & Luke Sprague of Sydney were married in a ceremony at St Agnes Church recently, with a reception to follow at Rydges Port Macquarie. One hundred and thirty guests from all over the country came to celebrate with the happy couple. Guests enjoyed entrée

Nicole Small and Rodney Yates

and main, followed by a beautiful five tier cake

by Penelope K and a decadent lolly buffet. Floral arrangements were by Glasshouse Flowers and guests were entertained by Rif Raf. Shelley and Luke chose The Simple Things Studio to capture their special day. Congrats to the happy couple!

Men, brace yourself – there is an event on the calendar just for you! Beer Degustation is coming to Rydges Port Macquarie on Wednesday 25 July at 7pm, with the Malt Shovel Brewery 6 Course Degustation Dinner. The ladies, of course, will not to be outdone, with the $65 pp tickets being snapped up by a bevy of brew loving beauties.

Tim McKnight from James Squire will be talking you through each ale, and no doubt there will be some foggy heads the next day at the office. As they say … there will be stories! I unfortunately will be relegated to babysitting duty, as hubby heads off to the festival of beer. I will be left behind to ponder the void left behind by The Voice … The Block, too, is also all but over … what to do with the rest of winter, devoid of treacherously addictive reality television!

I will have to survive with my mini brush with fame with a ‘Blockhead’ at Zebu recently. I managed to almost take a spill at the bar, only to be caught by the big man himself – Brad – talk about handy! The lovely Lara had already hit the hay after a huge night celebrating with some die hard Block addicts at the bar. Hideously embarrassing slip disaster narrowly averted – note to self: must get non slip stilettos! ‘til next month!

Kate.

Come and taste over 150 varieties of tea and see what our shop has to offer.

Organic Ayurvedic.

Organic Vitality Well-Being Tea – a reinvigorating selection of organic alkaline herbs, such as Spearmint, Calendula petals, and Alfalfa leaf, perfect as an after-dinner-mint tea. This soothing tea relaxes and heals the digestion, reducing excess acidity and restoring balance. Caffeine free, anti-oxidant rich and organic, Organic Vitality Well-Being tea refreshes the breath naturally and is delicious as a cold drink as well. Comes packaged in a resealable foil pouch.

Lv’s on Clarence.

Organic Immunity Tea blend – feeling a little stampeded by life? Revive, renew and revitalise with this unique organic blend of Eucalyptus, Echinacea, Australian Lemon Myrtle, Liquorice Root and Ginger Root. A healthy, restorative tea for busy people who want to bolster and fortify their well-being. Enjoy any time of the day, or any time if you are feeling a little run down.

Family friendly, prime water views, fresh seasonal menu, helpful staff ... these are just a few words to describe Lv’s on Clarence.

Organic Neem Leaf Ayurvedic Herb – Neem Leaf has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine and is used to treat skin disorders, remove toxins from the body, nourish eyes and hair, as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, and in the treatment of Malaria. Neem Leaf is also said to reduce blood sugar levels in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus and reduce toxicity in the liver.

With the breakfast menu starting from as little as $5, there is something available for everyone. Lv’s is home of the very popular Slider – your choice of twice cooked eye fillet, crumbed chicken, or slow roasted pork belly. Come and try one for yourself.

Organic Kidney Cleanse – a deep cleansing Ayurvedic tea to help refresh, tone, cleanse and rejuvenate the kidneys for better overall health. Herbs in this blend are diuretics and toners; they may help flush the kidneys, which will help eliminate water retention and bloating.

Come and see the huge range in store now.

Why not bring the family down these school holidays and enjoy a relaxed breakfast, lunch and or dinner, while soaking up the winter sun and the amazing views on offer right on the doorstep of the restaurant.

If you are just after something sweet for morning tea, try a Paul Basset espresso coffee and one of the chef’s house-made sweets.

Lv’s on Clarence is open Wednesday 8am - 2pm, Thursday Saturday 8am - late, and Sunday 8am - 2pm.

Bookings recommended for dinner time and through the holidays.

greater port macquarie focus 33

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

MA RTY RHONE “ Marty Rhone is no stranger to Port Macquarie . Marty returns with his show Cliff Joins the Beatles, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Beatles. ”

ou have been to Port Macquarie a few times before.

Are you excited to be returning to the region?

I certainly am. Port Macquarie is one on my favourite places; it’s a beautiful part of the world, and I can understand why a lot of people go up there to relocate – especially to get out of the frantic atmosphere and traffic of Sydney.

You’ve performed a couple of times before in the region. Are you excited about having those people return to see you in this show?

I’m very excited about this show, and I know that’s a cliché, but I’ve never done a show like this before. It is one that I’m thoroughly enjoying throughout this very long tour. But when you are loving what you are doing, the length of the tour doesn’t matter, because the audiences seem to be sharing our joy – which is terrific.

For those who haven’t seen you before, tell us about yourself as a performer?

My career started way back in the sixties. I’ve been a professional performer for, I think, now six decades. The last three years I’ve been working both as an actor and as singer. I’ve featured in a number of independent films; one was an independent Canadian/Australian production called Nude Study, where there was a little nudity but all very tasteful, and I did another feature film called City of the Damned, which I shot in Melbourne.

I’ve recently secured representation by an international acting agency that has offices here in Australia and Los Angeles. I’m 34 greater port macquarie focus.

planning to go over to LA in November to check it all out – nothing ventured, nothing gained they say. And from a singing perspective, I’ve been touring for the past five years.

This will be my fifth national tour and definitely my longest. The previous longest tour was only 14 dates; this one is more than double that, at 29.

The show Cliff Joins the Beatles is getting rave reviews so far. What is making this particular Beatles show so amazing?

Well, I actually devised and wrote it. This year is the 50th anniversary of the coming together of John, Paul, George and Ringo, and the Harbour Agency, which is the largest booking agency in Australia, asked me if I would be interested in creating a show around that scenario.

It’s based on part fact and part fantasy, unlike previous Beatles shows, where bands come out in suits with fur collars in the first half and badly fitting Sergeant Pepper outfits in the second. I wanted to do something very different.

So I zeroed in on the last few months of the Beatles, their sort of break-up, if you like and created a music fantasy based around the fact that both Cliff Richard and the Beatles shared Happy Road Studios as recording artists.

It’s during the period when the Beatles

were rehearsing what was to be a ‘get back live’ album and concert, which never eventuated, and the reason it never eventuated was the band couldn’t agree on anything. So I’ve created this fictional scenario where Paul bumps into Cliff Richard and says, “Cliff, will you come down to the studio and sing a few songs with us to try and break the ice ... ease the tension in the studio”.

You play the lead as Cliff Richard, is that correct? And how has that experience been?

Yes, that’s right. I really had to fine tune my accent and my Cliff Richard mannerisms. At other times when I’ve gone out as Cliff, I was just doing the music, where as this time it’s more about Cliff’s character as well.

How far and wide are you touring?

We are going to every corner of the country, with the only exception being the Northern Territory.

Thanks Marty.

the plug!

7

Marty Rhone is appearing in Cliff Joins the Beatles on Saturday 7 July at 8pm.

Phone the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit www.glasshouse.org.au for details.

focusinterview.

Waterfront Restaurant.

Rob and Karen Mooney are the new owners at The Waterfront Restaurant. Find out what they have in store ...

Y

ou and your wife, Karen, are now running The Waterfront Restaurant along Sunset Parade.

What kind of dining experience can our readers expect? Our main aim is to go ‘old school’, with a focus on high quality customer service and friendliness. We only use fresh produce and aim to present tasty, high quality food, which is as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

What would you say has been the most rewarding part about being a chef and having your own restaurant? It is very satisfying to receive the positive feedback that we do from our customers. Hearing the ‘wows’ when food is placed in front of them is a real pleasure.

Our aim is to make sure that when you leave our restaurant, we have satisfied every facet of the dining experience.

You have a pretty amazing view, as well as a great space at The Waterfront Restaurant. What you have in store for the restaurant? The views from our balcony overlook the beautiful Hastings River. We have

recently installed awnings, so that we can make the most of this area and its spectacular view. Summertime will be a brilliant time to make full use of the alfresco dining; however, we also have floor to ceiling glass windows, so in the colder or wet times, the view can be fully utilised.

ake “Our aim is to m u yo n he w sure that rant, leave our restau every ed fi tis sa we have facet of the dining experience.”

The current decor of the restaurant is rustic with a nautical theme, which is different to most new restaurants. It provides great atmosphere, and most people who have been in are impressed by its quirkiness and the fact that it is so different.

What options are available for readers wishing to hold a function at The Waterfront Restaurant? A lot of our previous experience has been in function work. We have this down to a fine art and can cater for any type of function, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas parties and work functions. The restaurant is also fully licensed, for the convenience of guests.

Currently for numbers of over 40 we are

happy to close the restaurant, so that guests can enjoy their function in privacy. We are offering free room hire and for cocktail functions, a special on the food.

We are more than happy to discuss function requirements over the phone, or over a cup of coffee in the restaurant at the client’s convenience.

The food looks absolutely delicious.

Tell us about the menu, and will there be seasonal changes? The menu is a combination of meals, which over time we have found to be particular favourites with our customers.

We have a good range of seafood and non-

seafood items. Our signature dish is Ocean and Earth, which is a succulent eye fillet with King Prawns and finished with Hollandaise sauce.

Our sweet chilli crab and our tender rib eye steak are also proving to be popular choices.

We are currently trying to source more fresh seafood, in order to extend our menu and give more options in seafood.

All our meals are served with potato and fresh vegetables, and currently we are offering a Winter Special of any two courses from our regular menu for $35 per person (some conditions apply). We offer a free celebration cake for groups of 10 or more paying adults dining in the restaurant.

We are also open daily until 11am for breakfast. Come and give us a try.

greater port macquarie focus 35

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

louperri. from The Stunned Mullet

A bed to sleep in, food in the belly, somewhere warm on a winter’s night – these are the keys to a happy life, and sadly we know all too well that such basic necessities are lacking for so many around the globe.

Local Boys go Country.

Local boys Bryce Roche, Shaun Hinton and Connor Cheeseman’s selection in the Under 16s Northern Country Rugby League side is quite an achievement by anyone’s standards. Chrissy Jones caught up with Group 3 Representative Coach Brad Hinton to get the run down.

T

ell us about the boys’ Group under 15s team last year. selection in the Northern They have had a busy year. Tell us what Country Rugby League Side. the three of them have been up to?

How did this come about?

They play regularly for the Wauchope and Wauchope’s Bryce Roche and Port City Breakers local clubs in the under Shaun Hinton, along with Port City Breakers’ 16s side and at times back up for the senior Connor Cheeseman, are the three young Under 18s teams during the season. They guns who gained selection. The boys all gained selection in the Group 3 represented the Group 3 under 16s team after participating in the side at the Northern Country Newcastle Knights Group Bryce, Championships at Forster on 3 Development Academy Shaun and the weekend of during February and Connor 2 and 3 June this year, where March and also by were selected for the Northern t they caught the eye of playing strongly in the Country team ous selectors.

Group trials, which were er of the 200 play er ov There were 10 Group held during May. g in participat .” nd ke ee Teams represented at the All three boys have also w the Championships, from the Central come to the notice of NRL Coast to Tweed Heads in the north clubs, with Bryce and Shaun and out to Moree in the west. The Group spending four weeks during January 3 side won 3 games to make the final of the this year training and playing with the Manly Country Championship Cup, narrowly going Harold Mathews Summer Development down to Group 2, 16 points to 12, in a game Squad, and Connor doing likewise with the played under very wet conditions.

Bulldogs.

How many players were up for selection?

The experience the boys gained from this Bryce, Shaun and Connor were selected exposure has certainly paid dividends in their for the Northern Country team out of the development and confidence.

200 players participating over the weekend.

Where to now for the boys?

Bryce was selected as Hooker, and Shaun and They will now play the Southern Country Connor in the Second Row. Side at Wyong, which is a selection trial to Have they represented the Group at all in gain a place in the NSW Country Team. If they the past? gain selection in the NSW Country Team, they Shaun and Connor have been regular will go into camp during the first week of the fixtures in the Group Team, having July school holidays and play Qld Country at represented in the Under 13s, 14s and 15s Toowoomba on 7 July. previously. For Bryce, this was his second year Thanks Brad, we wish the boys all the at representative level, having played with the best in their future sporting endeavours.

“

36 greater port macquarie focus.

t’s only too common that we here in the privileged western world waste our energy on things like fretting when we’re stuck in a traffic jam, or arguing over mundane stuff ... about whose turn it is to do the dishes, take out the garbage, while so many are concentrating every ounce of limited energy they have on finding something, anything, to eat, or struggling to keep a roof over their family’s head. And never mind taking out the garbage; there are plenty of places where a big truck doesn’t turn up once a week to magically remove waste. Rather, hygiene is secondary to sheer survival; only sadly, lack of such basic provisions such as sanitation only leads to the infinitely sad situation of many perishing from a variety of easily preventable diseases.

Such doom and gloom is not usually a part of this column, but on this occasion I figured that it wouldn’t hurt to have a bit of a reality check. It’s always a good idea to regularly pinch ourselves, wake up and smell the coffee and take some time to realise just how good we’ve got it.

And then maybe it will become a little easier to just let go, breathe deeply, and smile next time we’re stuck in a traffic jam, to truly understand that we are infinitely blessed to even be in a traffic jam – that we are basically amongst around the top 5% of the world’s wealthiest to be driving a vehicle on a paved road – never mind the potholes! It’s unbelievably fortuitous that the road exists in the first place.

Well, what do we do to even out the odds?

Obviously this huge imbalance of wealth is distressing and guilt inducing, when you really think about it.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by such huge inequalities and feel utterly powerless, but in my opinion a good place to start is right here.

We can’t move mountains overnight, but we can begin by helping each other.

A sense of community is a powerful thing.

People helping other people and working

together for the benefit of more than just their own individual lives is the foundation of a civilised and efficient society.

When we pool our resources and achieve collective goals, we empower ourselves and each other and we free ourselves from the mundane self-obsessed worries that are the bane of the modern, western world.

And the beauty of it all is that stuff actually gets done. Rather than waiting endlessly for some government department to cough it up, or merely moaning about the things our town doesn’t have, we can put our heads together and make it happen!

Here at the Mullet next month, we are doing just that. And we will be having some fun while we’re doing it too! As per last year, we will be hosting an amazing dinner for Jim Bruce Urology and helping them raise the funds they need to improve local medical facilities and technology in order to fight Prostate cancer and other urological issues in our local community.

The fun bit is that you get to drink your cellar’s best for charity. It’s the ultimate BYO event, and how lucky are we to be able to drink excellent wine and to enjoy a delectable tasting menu, while supporting such an important cause? The Jim Bruce Urology and Prostate Cancer Trust has already done so much to provide an extremely high standard of care to patients on the Mid North Coast, such as funding the purchases of medical equipment, the creation of scholarships to further the training of local nurses in Urology, and raising awareness of the prevalence of urological issues and the fact that Prostate Cancer is just as common in men as Breast Cancer is in women, by holding local men’s health forums.

It’s a great cause, and one way that we can ‘do our bit’ and add something to our own community.

This great event will be held on Saturday 18 August. Please do call us at the restaurant on 6584 7757 for bookings and further details. We hope to see you there!

greater port macquarie focus 37

focusinterview.

We have our al popular $9.90 de y da es Tu y, da on on M and Wednesday s of nights. (Two fillet ) ips ch d fish an

.

Paul and his friendly staff at Off The Hook provide you with a wide range of tasty meals, including good old fashioned fish and chips for the whole family to enjoy on the beautiful Town Green on the Hastings River.

T

he school holidays are here ... recently added my nieces Bree and Brooke to and what better way to enjoy the staff, to add to our family friendly store. the beautiful views at What does Off the Hook have to Town Green and offer? the Hastings Quality fish and chips at river than with good ol’ competitive prices. fashioned fish and chips ing “There is noth We have our popular from Off The Hook. better than a lazy e th $9.90 deal on Monday, afternoon with at Paul, how long have Tuesday and Wednesday mily, especially cret, fa you owned and Port’s best kept se.” nights (two fillets of fish operated Off the the Town Green and chips).

Hook?

We also have good old I have been the proud fashioned Aussie burgers and owner and manager here our fresh fish range, including now for four and a half years.

Jewfish.

What does a typical day for you hold?

What is it about fish and chips on the Drop the kids off at school, and then it’s water that is so popular with families straight into the shop for preparation ... cut and friends? and fillet fish, make up salads in readiness for There is nothing better than a lazy afternoon another busy day and oversee the operation with the family, especially at Port’s best kept of the store. secret, the Town Green. With the river as our Introduce us to your friendly team ... backyard, Off The Hook is in Port’s premier We are lucky to have a great group of friendly position to take advantage of a fun family staff. Our team leaders are Amee (Store day.

Manager) Mitch, Tina and Helen, who have Telephone orders are available and also a wealth of experience. Bernie, Troy, Sarah, EFTPOS facilities.

Jaimee, Dani, Annie, Lauren and Drew have Thanks Paul. developed great customer skills, and I have

38 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

BIG HAIR, LEG WARMERS & SOME OF THE BEST MUSIC EVER WITNESSED ...

Bring back the ‘80s! Remember Scott Carne, from Kids in the Kitchen; Brian Mannix, from the Uncanny Xmen; and Dale Ryder, from Boom Crash Opera? You can see them live, altogether in the one fantastic show, at Laurieton United Services Club on August 11. It’s Absolutely ’80s!

W

here did the idea come from to form the Absolutely ‘80s show?

Scott Carne: Brian Mannix and I did the 2006 Countdown Spectacular tour, which ran right around Australia, and we had such a good time doing that tour that we thought we should go and play some shows together.

Hence, Absolutely ‘80s was born!

We’ve been out touring, sometimes with Dale Ryder from Boom Crash Opera as well, on the pub circuit. It’s a 2-hour show, playing our hits the way they’re meant to be heard … back in the time machine. It’s a full ‘80s experience, for the young and young at heart!

How did you and Brian originally meet?

Scott: Back in the day – the ‘80s – we didn’t really have that much to do … back then with each other. It was like we were with music, playing on the other football team; you didn’t there was this kind of competitive have to play in a band; sportsmanship going on. So, back you just had to play then, we didn’t really hang out. keyboard and have a good hairstyle!”

But since doing this show, we’ve realised we’re the same kind of people from the same era and have some really good stories to share with each other. It works really well … we all really dig each other and what we’re doing. We don’t take ourselves overly seriously, but we are serious about the music and about putting on a good show, and showing our personalities and having fun taking people back …

Brian Mannix: We knew each other from the ‘80s – we didn’t like each other very much in the ‘80s! The ‘80s were pretty competitive. Then we did a gig in Sydney, and we had to share an apartment together. We became friends, and it grew from there.

The show sounds spectacular, and the atmosphere

“

on stage must be electric!

Brian: It’s a big thrill for Scott and Dale, I’m sure (laughs)! It’s great fun. We all bring something different to the show. Scotty has an amazing voice; he’s very ‘80s.

Dale has an amazing voice too, but he’s a different style … and I’m just a dirty old rock jock! It works really well; we all get on really well, and we have a lot of fun.

The ’80s was a fabulous era for so many reasons.

What do you miss about that particular decade?

Scott: The ‘80s in the western world was kind of about the birth of the yuppie. Everybody was flying high … we won the America’s Cup; we were a growing nation, and it was all about positivity and lots of fun and self-expression – hence the ‘80s style clothing! I liked the naivety … back then with music, you didn’t have to play in a band; you just had to play keyboard and have a good hairstyle!

Brian: Lunch was tax deductible – I think that was great! We could have every meeting in a good restaurant, and then claim it on tax. I have fond memories of the ‘80s – but I don’t think I sit down and pine for the ‘80s … we had great adventures and I’m grateful for them, but I’m enjoying my life now. I don’t want to live in the past … I’m saying that and playing in an ‘80s band; how about that? (Laughs!)

It’s such a nostalgic era too, for so many people.

Why do you think so many people love ‘80s entertainment – ‘80s shows − so much?

Scott: It’s more to do with the people who grew up through the period. They attend our show, love the music, and had the life-sized posters pinned up on their walls. I just think it was just such a positive era, before times went a bit dark. I call the ‘80s “the end of innocence”. Back then people went out; you didn’t stay at home – there were only 4 channels on TV, and they were all pretty s***t! We socialised more …

Brian: Everyone seemed to have lots of money in the

‘80s. It was about high fashion, high glamour – we all seemed to dress up a lot more.

Kids in the Kitchen and Uncanny Xmen had quite a few popular songs from the era. Personally, what was your favourite?

Scott: Probably my favourite song was Say It, which was recorded over in the States with Madonna’s management. You can’t go wrong with Change in Mood either, which was our first hit and a great song from the ‘80s. These songs just take you back into a special place.

Brian: 50 Years, probably, because it has great lyrics, and I really like the song. I think it still stands up as a really good song. Everybody Wants to Work I quite liked too; I think it’s the only song written about enjoying not working! I don’t think anyone tackled that subject before. But in saying that, I like a lot of the Xmen songs that weren’t hits. Some of the B-sides were fantastic − songs like You Say That or Pakistan.

How’s the tour going so far, and are you looking forward to visiting the Mid North Coast?

Scott: We’ve kind of never stopped touring, really; we’ve just never got to the North Coast of NSW. We’re really looking forward to coming there. We’re like weekend warriors, you know … this show is kind of like our version of golf!

Brian: I haven’t been up that way probably since the ‘80s. We play Sydney and Queensland quite a bit, but I’m pretty excited to come up there. As long as it’s not cold weather!

Thanks Scott and Brian.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

Catch the Absolutely ‘80s show at Laurieton United Services Club on 11 August at 8pm. cost $30.

(02) 6559 9110.

greater port macquarie focus 39

focusinterview.

The Flair Awards began in 1994 in the pursuit of creating a regional fashion event that offered designers a platform to showcase their work to the public.

The Awards quickly grew over the years, both in quantity and quality of garments, with Flair becoming a well-known and respected event among fashion circles, industry professionals and colleges.

AWA R D S e caught up with Jo Meldrum, co-ordinator of The Flair Awards, to tell us about this year’s event …

What is required of you in your role as co-ordinator of The Flair Awards?

My role as co-ordinator is not unlike that of any person who is involved in the entertainment or event management industry. I look at it as the pulling together of many elements to create a product; in this case, our end product is a show. A fabulous team of volunteers who work all year to create Flair assists me, and local business houses that lend their assistance also help us. Of course, there is the glamorous side of meeting fashion identities and new designers and following their careers, but all in all I would like to say that it is hard work to get this event happening each year – but we all love it.

Tell us about the importance of regional areas having access to leading fashion awards events...

With Flair being Australia’s leading fashion awards event, it has been exciting to see the role it plays in the journey of designers. Having the annual event situated in Taree on the Mid North Coast of NSW provides the opportunity for budding and accomplished designers to show their talents, be critiqued by experts and gain promotion through the media. The Flair Awards also provides networking opportunities and connections to Australia’s capital cities, where the fashion industry is most prominent. It really enables designers to get their foot in the door, to what is an extremely competitive industry to break into.

The awards attract a high profile judging panel, plus industry guests ...

This year we are excited to announce that our judging panel will consist of Prue Hawkins – Head Designer of Cue, Lauren Lee – 2010 Flair Awards Designer of the 40 greater port macquarie focus.

Year, and JoJo Marquez – Owner and Head Designer of Arushie Couture. ...opportunity for budding and What are the various accomplished categories designers their designers to showed can enter into, and qu iti cr be talents, awards, as all entries should either reflect in how are the awards by experts and ga h the current trends or the entrants’ individual take critiqued? promotion throug on what is currently happening in fashion. media.”

There are nine major 80% of our entries are from fashion students, categories and nine and these students are encouraged to look beyond minor categories available what is currently happening in fashion; so what the for designers to enter into. The Flair audience sees is a view to the future. major categories this year include Why is the world of fashion notoriously difficult Red Carpet, Cocktail, Swimwear, Bridal, Generation for up-and-coming designers to navigate?

Y, Cup Day, Rags to Riches, Tailoring and Avant Aside from the fashion industry being extremely Garde. Designers are invited to enter into each major competitive, it is also ever changing; this makes it category and as many minor categories as they wish. hard to navigate a specific career path – especially for Each category has different criteria as to how it will emerging designers. Fashion is always about what is be judged, but across the board the judging panel is new and fresh – even if this draws on past trends! What looking at garment originality, aesthetics, quality of fit is current and who is in the spotlight is not usually and workmanship. Each year brings new and unique everlasting, so designers and those in the industry designs reflecting current industry trends, although there always have to change their ways of thinking and doing. are always surprises among the winners.

All designers want to create something innovative, A Designer of the Year is chosen from the winners unique and most importantly, desirable, and those of each major category ... how does this work? who are successful have found a way to get it right.

Judging takes place a week before the event, and a Designing the garment is only half the battle; once the winner is chosen for each of the Major Categories. Then designer has an idea, they must first sample it, include the Designer of the Year is selected from these winners, it in a collection, present it to buyers, and then have the so that the Designer of the Year not only wins that prize, garments manufactured – each posing their own set of valued at $8,000, but they are the winner of a Major problems. Then designers must promote their work and Category. Major Category winners win $1,000 in cash, themselves in a constantly changing world of technology but also some of the categories have a work experience Words of advice for aspiring designers? component with leading fashion houses in Sydney. Also, Research, research, research, stay true to your beliefs, all Major Category winners receive a sketch program keep up with technology, and do not let anyone push from Illy Strate. you along a path that you are not comfortable with; but Do you have a design theme running through this most of all, have fun! year’s awards?

Thank you Jo. Interview by Karen Farrell.

We do not suggest a theme to run through the

“

greater port macquarie focus 41

Travelling to the source and meeting the makers of eclectic furnishings was something Kerry & Simon often dreamed about. Two years on, Cargo Lane is becoming one of Australia’s hottest boutique furnishing stores.

Featuring decorative collections, special gifts and one off furniture pieces, Cargo Lane is a captivating shopping experience.

So what’s their secret?

“Taking risks that most retailers wouldn’t dream of”, says Simon. “We travel to some of the most remote places in the world, looking for aspirational pieces that reflect our customers’ unique tastes”.

“Taking risks that most retailers wouldn’t dream of.”

Kerry an Interior Designer and Simon from a build design background, recognise good craftsmanship when they see it. Only the finest quality is offered, whether it’s their globally sourced, or Australian made furniture. Coupled with a wonderful combination of flair and originality, Cargo Lane certainly is for the décor aficionado.

Working with suppliers, artisans and merchants from remote places such as the Sahara Desert means Cargo Lane boasts many fascinating items, from decorative homewares and stone-aged basins to objets d’art.

Clockwise from top: A snap shot of one of the sofas available; Simon measuring out a custom made fossil stone table in Morocco; Stunning handmade bowl; Kerry & Simon.

Shop 2, The Old Butter Factory, 1 Doepel Street Bellingen 6655 0054

Located in the Old Butter Factory, Bellingen, Cargo Lane is open 7 days.

42 greater port macquarie focus.

Robert English of Avé Restaurant

focusinterview.

A passion for

Last year, Robert English of Avé Restaurant won the Mid North Coast Signature Dish Awards, and his humble Bellingen restaurant was thrust into the spotlight.

Since then, Robert and his partner Amanda have gone from strength to strength, obtaining a liquor license and being awarded a Chef’s Hat from the AGFG. Robert tells us more about his restaurant and his passion for food.

food

C

ongratulations on winning the like: house smoked caviar with kangaroo carpaccio. I use Mid North Coast Signature Dish a local apple wood to smoke our caviar, to impart even Competition last year. How exciting more depth to an already amazing product. was that for you?

House made goats’ ricotta with brulée lemon and We were proud to showcase our style of daylilies (an edible flower with an amazing variety of food and be recognised in the area. This competition flavours and colours) – I also use garlic shoots and has boosted our small family owned restaurant into the heirloom tomatoes on this dish, to match the strong spotlight. flavours of the ricotta.

Tell us about your winning dish, including what Sous-vide beef striploin with morels – a low local ingredients you choose to use. temperature poaching method that helps retain It was an assiette of local squid consisting of squid ink maximum flavour and breaks down the protein over a risotto with crispy tentacles, sautéed twenty-hour period. squid with saffron mussels and smoked ham foam. The What ingredients excite you the most this season? local ingredients were: a locally produced ham, local At the moment, our favourite would be a local apple squid and garnishes from local growers like wood I use for smoking caviar and radish, watercress, flowers and broad infusing the bisque. We also enjoy using beans. garlic shoots and the flowers.

How did Avé Restaurant If you have to give the home cooks ed ov We m e evolve? th one tip, what would it be and m up fro y lle Va We moved up from the Hunter why? r Hunte e th Valley in 2009 to build the Dine out; it’s easier! in 2009 to build nt ai qu is restaurant in this quaint 100 year What makes dining at Avé restaurant in th ch.” ur ch old church. We originally opened Restaurant unique? d ol ar ye 0 10 as a breakfast and lunch venue, It is a combination of the food, the but after trialling a few nights (and service and the atmosphere, along with by popular demand), we decided to being situated in an old church ... the only open four nights a week, along with four church serving more than bread! lunches. Last year we also started our external What can diners expect from Avé? catering, which really took off and has kept us very busy.

We can guarantee that the food will always be of the You recently acquired an alcohol license. Was highest quality utilising exciting and unique produce – choosing the wine menu made easier, considering and using techniques which are not seen in any other you both worked in wineries in the Hunter Valley? restaurants in this area.

No, there is a lot of great wine – and it takes time to What is your greatest quote in life? taste such a large array. It’s a hard life sometimes in this There are many great quotes to live by, but the one industry! We think we’re off to a great start with the list, that stands out at the moment is a quote by Len Evans, and it can only get better. a wine legend, “Live each day as if it will be your last, What’s on the menu at Avé Restaurant? but plan your life as if you’ll live forever”.

On the menu this season we have a few unique items What is your goal as an establishment?

“

To provide guests our absolute best by continually reinventing our food and wine and treating our customers as if they were family.

There is a deep satisfaction for us in what we do, and this is only magnified when our guests leave feeling that dining with us was a great experience – not only a meal.

You recently were awarded a Chef’s Hat by the Australian Good Food Guide; how did that make you feel?

Being one of two restaurants on the whole Mid North Coast with this recognition has really inspired us to push ourselves even further this year; although, we’d rather focus on providing our guests with a quality product than just winning awards.

Thanks Robert.

Address: 8 Church Street, Bellingen Open: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday Lunch and Dinner. Offsite special event catering Website: www.averestaurant.com.au Phone: (02) 6655 0070 greater port macquarie focus 43

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w ith Belinda Gi b s o n

C O M E D Y

A N D

T R A G E D Y

t is no coincidence that the symbol Macquarie. From our responses, he will form often used for theatre is the the second half of the show unique to our comedy and tragedy masks. Life town (can’t wait to see what comes out of at the Glasshouse can be a bit like that!) Come for the comedy – but as a bonus, that sometimes! get a great story, some terrific songs, and TRAGEDY: Deborah Voigt, coming from a few provocative questions about modern Sydney Opera House, had to cancel her manhood! upcoming Australian tour. In recent weeks, Ms One man that has some very clear ideas Voigt has been suffering from severe chronic about what it takes to be a man is ‘the Don’; hip pain and was admitted for emergency however, I wouldn’t recommend his approach surgery. While this is disappointing news, the … he meets his match and ultimately comes prognosis is very positive, and we to no good in Oz Opera’s production wish her a speedy recovery. of Don Giovanni. I will openly COMEDY: The Melbourne admit that I am not an opera a er International Comedy ‘aficionado’, but I have been “ I am not an op ve ha I t bu o’, Festival Roadshow assured from my Opera ad ‘aficion from been assuredst sold out one show Australia friends that even I ralia my Opera Au en and almost sold out will enjoy this one. It is fast I friends that evone. It is a second! A massive paced, has ‘big‘ arias, lots will enjoy th s ‘big‘ ha d, ce pa st thank you to everyone of humour and will be sung is fa mour arias, lots of hung who came to the in English! in and will be su theatre to support these Each night of Don English! ” comedians.

Giovanni we will be running Coming up this month a best dressed competition, we have a comedy show from a with some great prizes from The man who has performed in two previous Observatory, Rydges Port Macquarie and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals, Port Central. So frock up, grab yourself a Andrew Horabin. As well as being a cracking discounted Zebu ‘The Don’ cocktail on the comedian, Andrew is a professional keynote night, and enjoy a night full of love, passion, speaker, facilitator, comedian, author and betrayal and revenge! I wonder if there is a award-winning singer/songwriter. On the theatre mask for that? surface, this show What A Man’s Gotta Do may appear to be a ‘one man stand up the plug! comedy’, but it is so much more. Part of this To book tickets to see any of the performance will be provided by the audience. shows at athe Glasshouse, phone the Don’t panic … you don’t have to go on Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit stage! Andrew will ask us to write down our www.glasshouse.org.au for details. thoughts on what it takes to be a man in Port 44 greater port macquarie focus.

focuseditorial.

ith W w o N

Dwyer.

D E D N EXTE

S R U HO Meet Kate Dwyer, the new Managing Editor itor of the much loved Camden amden Haven Courier.

ate, you've lived in the region your whole life.

Where did your media career begin?

I figured out by the age of nine what a journalist was and thought it sounded like a pretty good job – you got to meet interesting people, write, take photos/ video, inform your community and be creative too. My family was very supportive. My uncle Tim Collits works (for an opposition media television network ... hush!) and I tagged along with him on various jobs. I was fortunate, when I graduated from Port Macquarie High School, to gain a place at the best training ground for journalists – Charles Sturt University in Bathurst.

My first job was at the Macleay Argus in Kempsey as sports editor, which was a bit of a laugh for those who know me ...

I’m not the most sportingly-coordinated person! I was sub-editor at the Manning River Times in Taree before the birth of our first child, Flyn, who’s now nine (man, where did that time go?!)

You moved to the Camden Haven 13 years ago. What do you love most about that area?

I moved to the Camden Haven for love (my husband Robert is Secretary Manager at the Laurieton United Services Club). It’s a beautiful region and community. Apart from the natural wonders of the area, I love the sense of community spirit here. People take pride in the achievements of others and are ready with a helping hand for those who need it.

Joining the Camden Haven Courier team eight years ago, how has your career developed over those years?

I joined the Courier shortly after our daughter turned one. Managing Edi-

tor Ian Hodgkinson was looking for a part-time journalist/photographer/relief editor, and I was looking to get back into the industry part-time. I had written a few stories for the paper on behalf of community groups and covered events.

Ian and I bumped into each other in the Bi-Lo car park (now Coles) and after a brief job interview there and then, I had a job. I’ve loved working with the Courier team; there have been plenty of laughs, some great stories and loads of interesting characters. Robert and I also welcomed two more children into our family, and the team at the Courier is a wonderful support (very flexible!).

You will now take over as Managing Editor. What are you looking forward to most in your new role?

Sheesh! The baptism of fire becoming an organised person will be most beneficial (ha!) Seriously, I’ll simply continue to find and tell the many stories that come from our community. It’s a culture Ian began when he became Managing Editor 25 years ago.

While we report on hard news stories when we can, it’s the human-type stories that bring the most feedback.

Being closely associated with the community, our readers always offer their thoughts on what’s in the paper. It’s this relationship which keeps foremost in our minds the responsibility we have bringing information and inspiration to the Camden Haven.

We will also be more actively engaging with the community through technology – we’re on Facebook, Twitter, the web: www.camdencourier.com.au and welcome any feedback via these platforms, or from anyone wanting to pop in and have a chat ... especially if you bring a soy latte (kidding!)

As a community member, what groups are you involved with in the Camden Haven area?

I’ve been involved with the Camden Haven Surf Club helping with publicity – although I’m reminded frequently that I haven’t completed my Bronze Medallion (can I help it if I hear the theme from Jaws when I get into the deeper water?)

I was on the management committee at St Joseph’s Children Services. I was a member of the foundation committee for the Camden Haven Magpies Softball team.

Perhaps the community role I’ve found most rewarding is being part of, along with Robert, the organising committee of the Slice of Haven food and wine festival. It’s a huge event (over 16,000 attendees in May this year) run by a core group of volunteers on behalf of the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce.

We came together from various backgrounds to develop this concept and have formed amazing friendships.

A busy mum too, you really will be juggling it all with three kids …what is your key to a good work/ life balance?

Teamwork. Robert and I share duties at home; we’re very good at tag-teaming with the kids, and our families offer great support (thanks guys!). We make sure we switch off phones and computers and play with the kids, get out and about and enjoy ourselves.

A Sunday roast (most Sundays) is a great time to set the table nicely and sit down together to catch up. Sometimes it feels like we fly by the seat of our pants (ok, all the time), but we’ve made the choice to actively DO life … and I think we do.

Thanks Kate.

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Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie www.porthomezone.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 45

focustourism. Port Macquarie Tourism Association

Tourism janette hyde.

Welcome to all visitors to Greater Port Macquarie during July. At the time of writing, we have had some glorious weather and with school holidays upon us, visitors and operators alike will be hoping to see it continue. f you are here visiting across July, make sure you drop in to our Visitor Information Centre, located in the Glasshouse on Clarence St, where you will find all the best information on all the attractions (natural and otherwise) that our great area offers.

For those visiting later in the month, make sure you drop down to McInherney Park on the Hastings River (Sat and Sun July 28/29) for round 4 of the 2012 Formula Powerboat GP. An internationally recognised extreme sport, the GP is highly entertaining for spectators of all ages and a great day out.

Spectators can view the entire course from any vantage point, ensuring that they don't miss any of the action, including explosive starts, hairpin turns and high speed passing manoeuvres. Some 200 crew support the 30 to 40 drivers, who will all be racing for vital competition points.

Memberships of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Partnership Program are now up for renewal. Membership offers a large list of benefits across a range of different levels and is an inexpensive way for any business to both promote themselves to the tourist market, as well as contribute to the marketing of our area, as the partnership program is an important source of finance for Destination Marketing. This marketing is important in ensuring that visitors continue to choose Greater Port Macquarie as a destination for their short break, family holiday, sporting event or conference.

Leasa Harris has been charged with the role to promote the Partnership Program not only to existing members but importantly, to grow the member base by attracting new members. There are 4 entry points for members to choose from, each with a different level of benefits for their businesses.

Further information on the program can be obtained by contacting Leasa at PMHC on 6581 8063 or by emailing her at Leasa.

Harris@pmhc.nsw.gov.au A major focus for the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association is to work closely with local Chambers of Commerce and other Business Groups, the Town 46 greater port macquarie focus.

Centre Master Plan Committee and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, to ensure that all communication lines are open across the many projects in development which could impact on Tourism and the local economy.

One such program is the footbridge over Kooloonbung Creek, which is part of the Foreshore Development Plan. This plan was developed with intense community consultation. Our local Federal Member, Rob Oakeshott, has been very active, securing $1 million dollars from the Federal Budget, a substantial investment in Port Macquarie’s foreshore. This footbridge will improve pedestrian safety and give access to one of the community’s greatest natural assets.

In regard to the Council’s review of the Tourism and Economic Development – the consultants have been begun talking to many of the stakeholders both within tourism and the business community. We look forward to the recommendations they make and the positive outcomes implemented from this process.

With the Council elections only 2 months away, Greater Port Macquarie Tourism welcomes potential Councillors who will drive growth and economic development for the region, efficiency within the Council organisation and re-building relationships between the Council and the community.

The Association welcomes discussion with any candidate, as we are very keen to ensure that Tourism continues to be recognised as an extremely important element of our local economy and as such, remains high on the Council agenda.

Finally for this month, it is disappointing to see that political wrangling over funding continues to hamper the Pacific Highway upgrades. Under current funding arrangements, the 2016 deadline for dual carriageway up to the Queensland border will not be met. Many accident blackspots remain unfixed and lives continue to be lost on roads, that in some instances can only be described as sub-standard. It would appear everyone except the politicians involved fail to see the importance of these highway upgrades.

focustravel.

with Susie Boswell

No place like home.

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : Australia

A

s much as we love our neighbouring getaways of Fiji, Bali and so on, Aussies travelling at home in three sectors - on holidays, visiting friends and relatives (VFR) and for business - are at their best level for four years. Statistics released last month show trip numbers other than day trips up five per cent, nights stayed up six per cent to total 279 million and expenditure by the three sectors leaping 10 per cent to $50 billion.

More than half the total derives from independent holidaymakers. Admittedly, VFR travellers and mining-related business travel have shown greater growth than independent holidaying: nevertheless the sector is also up. Despite the high A$ making international travel attractive, domestic travel has returned to pre-GFC levels.

Australian tourism’s other income, from international visitors, is stimulated in large part by Tourism Australia’s overarching promotional campaign “There’s Nothing Like Australia” (a $250m marketing spend over the next three years). Its latest incarnation cropped up in the form of a 90-second commercial on our TV screens last month at the same time as it was launched in Shanghai. The new campaign’s not only being seen in the US, UK and China (our fastest-growing, most lucrative market) - and to run in 18 markets in all - but is scheduled nationally at home to give us a “feel good” vibe about our own country possibly not experienced since Paul Hogan’s 1980’s “Shrimp on the barbie” TV and cinema commercials. These days the delivery medium is augmented by “online advocacy” or “word of mouse”, via email, websites, blogs, video sites like YouTube, social networking via Facebook and Twitter, and apps. And

in line with current-day affluence and demand (larrikin “mate” Hogan and Lara Bingle in bikini so last-century), the new creative theme showcases “a more contemporary, sophisticated, energetic and inspiring Australia”, and presents a stronger image of the quality - against traditionally okker - experiences our country has to offer.

Twelve standout locations showing off our best natural and man-made attractions feature in the new musicvideo compilation: in WA’s Kimberley - Purnululu in the Bungle Bungle Ranges; Cape Leveque on Dampier Peninsula; and El Questro Wilderness Park. In Qld - Surfers Paradise/Gold Coast, the Whitsundays’ Hayman Is, and the Great Barrier Reef’s topmost resort, Lizard Is. In SA - Kangaroo Is. In Tasmania Saffire Lodge on Freycinet Peninsula. In Vic - Southbank on Melbourne’s Yarra (and in online versions, the Great Ocean Road and Twelve Apostles). NSW has Sydney Harbour and the Blue Mountains’ Wolgan Valley Resort. The NT, naturally, is represented by Uluru. Canberra gets a look-in on digital versions. These are our top-line resorts and locations … others such as Broome, Kakadu, Margaret River and Wilson Island were possibly discarded short of making a feature-length movie. The soundtrack, It’s Like Love, has attracted popular interest and acclaim and is the result of a competition, Making Tracks, devised by TA with YouTube and Google last year.

Four international classical musicians were invited to Australia, each paired with a promising local musician to travel the country and create a composition inspired by their journey. It’s Like Love was chosen from the four resulting collaborations. It was written by Aussie singer-songwriter Dewayne Everettsmith

and American viola player, 22-year-old Jasmine Beams. Dewayne, from Hobart, is descended from the Aboriginal community of Cape Barren Island and Victoria’s Gunai-Kurnai people. His singing and guitar-playing has taken him to New Zealand, American Samoa, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York and many parts of Australia; he has supported John Farnham and performed with Paul Kelly. The song’s refrain runs: “It’s like love, Cleanse your soul, Feel it in your veins, Breathe it in - your lungs will stain. It’s like love, For the first time, It’ll all make sense, You know you know it.”

Not all of us can afford the luxury resorts featured, although we can experience the same essence in countless other locations. But if you’re stimulated to patriotism and to try the best: Hayman has a Romantic Escape offer of four nights’ accommodation for two in a Pool room with breakfast daily in Azure (one of Australia’s best brekkies), French champers and chocolates on arrival, a three-course dinner with wine and couple’s spa massage from $1292pp twin share. Included are paddle-skiing, windsurfing, cat sailing, gym, sauna, steam room, tennis, squash, croquet, golf putting and chipping and yoga.

Nothing matches Hayman’s restaurants, private dining, beach, pool, island picnics and general chi-chi ambience, a very special “one off” feeling. Fly to Proserpine (Airlie Beach/Shute Harbour) or Hamilton Island (Great Barrier Reef Airport) for launch transfers, $290 adult return. 1800 075 175.

For a rock star experience on exclusive Lizard Island, free return flights ex Cairns worth $1156 each are offered for twin share bookings, five nights, to December 20. Peerless. 1300 863 180. traveleditor@live.com.au greater port macquarie focus 47

About Shop in our town and visit our unique boutique range of businesses. From giftware to fashion, coffee & dining, pubs & clubs all within easy walking distance.

WAU C H O P E

MARCO POLO

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FOR A LIMITED TIME RUSH IN AND GRAB A BARGAIN Current season stock at 20% to 50% off ** Return this advertisement and place it in the box with your name & phone details to win $100 shopping voucher ** • Simply beautiful fashion clothing for the mature woman.

• Large stockist of Black Pepper, Marco Polo and other leading Australian brands.

• Size range 8 - 24.

• Specialising in smart casual, ‘Mother of the Bride’ and special occasion.

33 High Street Phone. 6586 1324.

Class-ique Fashions Style

Wauchope Travelworld.

Evergreen Tours - Canada, Alaska 2013 • Escorted from Port Macquarie by Travelworld Wauchope Staff Member*

• Departs 29 May 2013 • 21 Day Rockies and Alaska cruise • Companion flies free – PLUS $500 per couple discount • Special offer expires 28 September 2012 • Hurry – places are limited 1/31 High Street Phone. 6585 2288 Email. info@wauchopetravel.com.au *Subject to minimum numbers

Unique Boutique Wauchope

Service

Bago Tavern.

Bago Tavern have an all new menu to please all tastes. This, as well as our Chef’s Special board, great kids’ menu, homemade desserts and freshy brewed HOLY GOAT coffee offer a memorable dining experience for all.

Dine in one of our unique dining areas: the traditional beer garden, timber themed restaurant, sports bar or the beautiful Bali Garden. Nine beers on tap, imported and local wines – all functions are catered for.

Great kids’ playground! Jumping castle every Saturday and Sunday for the kids.

235 High St, Wauchope (Opposite Timbertown) Phone: 6586 4722 Open. 7 days, lunch and dinner. Bookings preferred.

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Boutique shopping, giftware, fashion, coffee and dining, pubs and clubs, all within easy walking distance. Gateway to the Hastings

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community in Wauchope and surrounds • Individual membership includes NSW Business Chamber Alliance • Networking functions & information sessions for members • Referrals and cross marketing between members.

P.O. Box 270, Wauchope 2446 Web. www.wauchopechamber.org.au 48 greater port macquarie focus.

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Roland Plaza, 33 High St Phone. 1300 369 142 Web. www.emergencyID.com.au

LOCA L E L EC TION 2 0 1 2

focusinterview.

y son wsh a e r e h “ T try Labor i r Coun g a team fo yself, fieldinelections (m, Fred these n Carmody heon) Colleend Jim Hutce for Lips a ause we car is bec mmunity. ” our co

.

the idate in r d n a C bor g fo ntry La lley is runnin ing u o C d l an ook er A ate loca lections, Pet ions. Peter is l the many n o i s s a e h P ct throug W state ber ele 2011 NS n the Septem ge of working i n Mayor to the challe mmunity. d o r c a r forw face ou t a h t s issue

Peter

irst off, tell us a little about yourself and why are you running for Mayor?

Over the last 30 years, I have worked in Information Technology, Management, Finance, Banking, Telecommunications, my own small business, and the not-for-profit sector.

I have always had an active role with my children and their sporting activities, having been the soccer club Coach and soccer club President for many years. I spent 6 years as Treasurer of an out of school hours centre and had many roles in the churches that I have been involved in over the years.

Living in Dunbogan with my wife and 3 children, I am currently a member of the Camden Haven Anglican Church. Most Wednesday nights you will find me training as a volunteer with the SES. I am the President of Hastings Morning Talkers Toastmasters Club. I also was the Country Labor candidate for Port Macquarie at the 2011 NSW state election.

I am running for Mayor, because I care for our community. I have the financial experience and the vision needed to lead this community.

The reason why Country Labor is fielding a team for these elections (myself, Colleen Carmody, Fred Lips and Jim Hutcheon) is because we care for our community. We provide a diversity of experience covering finance, management, health, education, the environment, regional development and a strong community focus for the new Council.

What are some of your polices leading into the next election?

As Mayor, I will work for ensuring that all parts of our society have a fair go, and that Council resources are shared fairly across all sections and across all regions of our community.

We need to maintain strong financial

to constantly keep the community informed management for the Council, to deliver about the issues that affect them. balanced budgets and reduce community If you could fix just one pressing issue for debt. the Hastings immediately, what would it We need to find a better way of funding be. our road infrastructure. The constant Just one pressing issue? There are lots of appearance and reappearance of many pot issues and lots of good projects. But the one holes leaves us asking why they were not I will pick is getting a significant upgrade fixed properly in the first place. We need to to Wauchope Pool. The existing pool was ensure that we get the best value we can for built close to half a century ago. It has some our roads, by delivering our limited resources significant ongoing maintenance problems where they are most needed. and the Council, on their own, are unable We cannot continue to increase the rates to fund the sort of upgrade that is in real terms every year to fix required.0 our roads. We have 1,300 An upgraded Aquatic Centre km of roads, 124 bridges, of “ There are lotsof would provide an indoor and a $100m backlog issues, and lots t heated 25 metre pool, of maintenance work good projects. Bu is ck pi ill hydrotherapy and children’s to get to a satisfactory w I e the on nt splash pool. I would love standard. I believe that getting a significachope upgrade to Wau g to see Olympic diving Taree Council’s recent Pool. The existinose to cl facilities in a new Wauchope ilt proposal asking that local bu pool was o. ” Aquatic Centre. This has Councils be given a share half a century ag also the potential to attract of GST revenue for local diving competitions from around roads is worthy of support.

Australia to our region.

I look forward to working with What is you overall vision for our area the Mid North Coast Group Of Councils to heading towards 2020/2030? advance this proposal.

We need to ensure that we get the We need to work out how to get the best best health, education and employment value out of the Glasshouse. By that, I do not opportunities for all members of the only mean that we need a better financial community. return, but we also need a better community We need to encourage and manage our return. We need to ensure that this facility growth and development as a community, is available for all of the community to use. but in doing so, we need to jealously guard To achieve this, the Glasshouse needs to the natural, the built and the community occasionally be made available for community environment that we all love about this area. groups at a discounted rate.

I would love to see our towns and suburbs We need to improve the way that we conduct community consultation. Consultation develop with the feel of a village. Cars and trucks should be moved from our village needs to be a dialogue, not a one way centres to bypass roads and car parks. People conversation. I want to make sure that all need to be able to reclaim our villages, our members of our community are heard, not market places and our foreshores. just the ones who shout the loudest. We need

We need more cycleways, not just for bicycles, but for motorised scooters, walking frames, strollers, connecting our villages, our community resources and our schools. We have a beautiful natural environment, and we need to take full advantage of it.

Do you feel any pressure from the community being the first publicly elected Councillors in almost 6 years?

Not at all. I see it as a great opportunity to start afresh. There will be 9 Councillors, each with different interests and different passions about this community. One of my roles as Mayor will be to draw them together, through negotiation and compromise, to reach the right decisions for this community.

I want to assure the community that consultation is not something that I will be doing just in the lead up to the election, but something that I see as an ongoing process.

I am looking forward to the challenge of working through the many issues that face this community.

What’s something our readers don’t know about you?

I have a passion for rock climbing. It is an exercise in physical strength, endurance, co-ordination, balance, flexibility and risk management. I love all of these challenges, and I apply them to everything I do, not just to rock climbing.

How can readers get in touch with you?

I am happy to talk with anyone about any local issue. I can be contacted on 0428 327 525 or by email: peteralleycl@gmail.com Thanks Peter.

Are you standing?

Are you thinking of standing in the next Port Macquarie-Hastings election? Like to be interviewed in FOCUS? Email us: editor@focusmag.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 49

focus_interview.

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50 greater port macquarie focus.

eatrix Potter’s much loved is the jewel in the crown of Frederick classic celebrates its 110th Warne, and they’re quite particular about anniversary with the musical everything. Obviously in the interim I had Happy Birthday Peter Rabbit, been formulating ideas on how and what Celebrating 110 Years. First we might present for the stage. published in 1902, The Tale of Peter Rabbit I decided on a mix of the Tales of Peter has enchanted countless children with Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny and Mr Tod, as tales of the world’s most adorable and this would give us the a through line and mischievous bunny and Mr McGregor’s the inclusion of some drama between Mr veggie patch …

McGregor and Tommy Brock and the Award-winning stolen baby bunnies in the Tale of producer Garry Mr Tod. It was then decided Ginivan has which large replicas of the adapted many books the action could “Now we havee the original stag d on books for the take place in. production baseter stage, including This production is the the stories of Pe n lia Noddy Goes to fi rst production that has ra st Au Rabbit – uced od pr d an Toyland by Enid ever starred Peter Rabbit d te ea cr hich I Blyton, in which in his own production.

– something of w am very proud.”

Garry personally There was the ballet, which persuaded the was inclusive of many of Blyton family for Beatrix Potter characters, but permission to do a musical there has never been a Peter Rabbit adaptation of Noddy. show. This is why I think it took so long Garry talks to us about the magic that is for approval and the production finally children’s theatre … reaching the stage.

You’re one of Australia’s leading How fabulous for Peter Rabbit to have theatre producers and have adapted his ‘moment’, particularly on the 110th quite a few books for the stage. I anniversary … why hasn’t Peter Rabbit wanted to hear specifically about ever appeared in his own show before? the process of adapting such a I have produced in the past The Magic precious gem as Peter Rabbit and the Faraway Tree and The Magic Wishing Chair, importance of getting the adaptation and they are the only productions that have right … ever been on stage as well. Our production It originally took me 18 months to get of Peter Rabbit was first produced for the the rights approved, before we could even 100th anniversary, and since that time we start working on a script. Peter Rabbit have produced it many times. The current

production has been adapted into a ‘Birthday Celebration’ for this special year.

Now we have the original stage production based on the stories of Peter Rabbit – Australian created and produced – something of which I am very proud.

Which characters can we expect to meet in the musical?

The characters that are in the show are Beatrix Potter, who plays a narrator, Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Mr McGregor, Old Mr Bunny, Tommy Brock and Mr Tod. A lot of the children seeing this production will likely have never seen a piece of musical theatre before.

How much responsibility is there to ensure the children’s introduction to theatre is a magical experience for them?

There’s a lot of responsibility, because music theatre in Australia is like the icon of theatre, and that’s what the masses are drawn to. People who have never been to the theatre before go for the first time to see Phantom of the Opera, CATS or Love Never Dies … music theatre in Australia is very important in how theatre can survive.

I think it’s important when we introduce children to the theatre that we do it with integrity. All of our productions, including Peter Rabbit, are designed especially with original scores and script adaptations.

Nothing is thrown together. We could actually be doing musicals for adults, and that’s the approach that we use.

Thank you Garry.

Interview by Karen Farrell.

focusinterview.

Patricia Knudsen.

MLO [P.Arts], T.Cert [V]

F U N D R A I S E R F O R R E L AY F O R L I F E .

“

H

i Patricia. Please introduce yourself …

Before moving to Port Macquarie, I was employed at St Patrick’s College, Campbelltown, as an entertainment’s officer to bring entertainers and productions to their ‘Mary Sheil Centre’, while at the same time I ran my own Performing Arts Studio, where I taught singing, speech and drama. I also organised and ran Junior Talent Quests for some of the Sydney Suburban Clubs.

I was awarded the prestigious award of a ‘Member of the Liverpool Order’ for my contribution to The Performing Arts back in 1975 and the other initials after my name are for my Teaching Certificates in voice for both Vocal and Speech, attained at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in 1961.

I moved to Port Macquarie in 2002, 10½ years ago, with my husband, Dennis. Our intention when we moved here was to retire. I have always had a passion for organising and running fundraising benefits for worthy causes, and when I became involved with the Hastings ‘Relay for Life’ − you couldn’t stop me. Everyone knows that Cancer is such a worthy cause, but until it becomes personal, you don’t really understand why people become so passionate about fundraising for a cure for this non selective disease.

What’s your involvement with the Hastings Relay for Life – and why did you become involved?

I have only been involved with the Hastings Relay for Life for four years, and this will be my second year on the Relay for Life committee.

I joined the committee to see if my presence would make a difference when my husband was diagnosed with ‘Anal Cancer’. I am passionate about Relay, as one of my young students had Ovarian Cancer. My sister-in-Law and members

of our ‘That’s Entertainment’ group are cancer survivors, and this makes Relay even more important to us. We must find a cure, and if fundraising and walking in Relay for 24 hours can make it happen sooner rather than later, then so be it. With all the research and treatment we can provide for people with whatever kind of cancer, it’s a worth-while cause.

So what is the ‘That’s Entertainment’ committee all about?

The ‘That’s Entertainment’ committee was founded in 2010 after discussions in regards to fundraising ideas for our Relay For Life group.

We decided that with the members in our teams, we should be able to put on a charity concert in the aid of Relay For Life, which we achieved.

After two successful concerts in the past two years, we have decided to expand on our fundraising efforts this year with a Junior Talent Quest, as well as our annual charity concert.

Our hard working committee comprises Jennifer Ward, Tricia Newman, Amie Ward, Suzie Kanteurek, Emma Ward and myself. All of us have a passion for defeating cancer and hope that through our fundraising efforts we can make that a reality.

Describe the fundraisers the That’s Entertainment Committee have organised recently, and tell us a bit more about the Junior Talent Quest …

We held our first fundraiser on Saturday, June 9 at the Wauchope, Port Macquarie Performing Arts Studio, where 16 year old Izabella Kanturek had her first hair cut since the age of three − which meant that the length of hair cut off will enable two short wigs to be made for cancer patients. The afternoon raised $628.45.

At the moment, our focus is on our Junior Talent Quest, which is being held in August at the Wauchope RSL Club.

The Junior Talent Quest is open to all competitors aged 17 years and under as at 19

Think you have what it takes to be a performer? If you’re aged 17 and under as at 19 August 2012, have talent with any type of performance and would like to help raise money for the Hastings Relay For Life, you should enter the upcoming Junior Talent Quest happening in Wauchope in August.

Patricia Knudsen fills us in ... ”

August 2012.

We are holding four heats, and they are all on Sunday 19 August, commencing at 9.30am, and the Semi-finals and the Grand Final will be held on Sunday 26 August, commencing at 10am. We have had two very successful registration days for entries, and we have quite a good variety of acts i.e. vocalists, dancers, musicians, variety acts, comedians and poets.

I will still take names on a wait list if youngsters are interested; just call me on 0448 604 541, and I’ll be only too happy to talk with you.

How will the competition be judged, and will there be any prizes for the winners?

We have two judges for each Heat, Semi and the Grand Final. Prize money is fantastic; for third place we are offering $100, second place $200 and first place winner will receive $300. All contestants will receive a ‘certificate of participation’ to show our thanks for their support of this talent quest.

What is the aim of the junior talent quest – where will funds raised go?

Our aim is to enhance the potential of our local young talent and at the same time raise money for the Cancer Council Relay for Life.

Do you have any sponsors who’ve already come on board you’d like to thank – and is it still possible for businesses/individuals to lend their support through sponsorship at this stage?

We have some fantastic sponsors. Wauchope RSL have been so generous and supportive of our endeavour by allowing us the use of their club for the talent quest, Focus for the media coverage, The Wauchope Gazette for all their assistance and also their full media coverage,

Café Buzz, Percival Property, East Coast Laser Cosmetic Clinic and East Coast Medi Massage and Beauty Bar have all given us cash donations of well over $1,000. And yes, we are always looking for sponsors who will support our future endeavours. We have a fundraising dinner coming up in late October/early November at the Bago Tavern.

Why would you like to see as many people get involved with this fundraising effort as possible?

We would like to see as many people as possible at our fundraising events, as cancer prevention is a passion that we all share. One in every two people has cancer, so chances are that either you have cancer or someone you know has cancer. To us, this is unacceptable.

Relay For Life gives us a platform in which to fundraise and obtain the much needed funds that will help us defeat cancer, so one day we can live in a world where no one ever has to hear the words “You have cancer”.

So come along, enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and feel good at the same time, knowing that you are helping to defeat cancer.

How do people contact you if they want to enter the talent quest or become a sponsor?

The best way to contact me is on 0448 604 541, or they can email me: knudsenpj@yahoo. com.au A lot of people sell cakes, raffle tickets, chocolates etc to raise money, but I just organise things!

Thanks Patricia.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photo of ‘That’s Entertainment’ committee.

Back row: Suzie Kanturek, Patricia Knudsen.

Front row: Emma, Jenny and Amie Ward. greater port macquarie focus 51

focusinterview.

From mid-May to mid-November, thousands of Humpbacks migrate along the coast off Port Macquarie, so these July holidays make it the time to check them out with a fantastic cruise on the Port Venture. Chrissy Jones caught up with Alison, to find out just what this adventure entails ...

time

W

hy should readers book a Whale Watching tour with the Port Venture?

What do you offer?

We offer lots ... a purpose built boat designed by Brian Perry, the man who started the whale watching industry in Hervey bay 26 years ago. So, all his years of experience have been drawn on to produce this boat – a boat which is designed specifically for whale watching – Port Venture.

The main features that are essential for great photos and viewings and comfort are the height, stability, tiered viewing levels and quick and quiet running.

You can be on the lower deck up close and personal with the whales, or up eagle high for those great photos. We also have a hydrophone; so on some days we can even hear the whales singing.

We pride ourselves on our customer service and attention to our guests on board and do our very best to make your experience a great one.

The Port Venture catamaran is a beautiful vessel. What are some of the amenities on board?

We have full wheelchair access to board the boat, with a state of the art boarding platform.

Once on board, wheelchair users can access the whole lower level of the boat, including the toilet.

She is spacious and has inside and outside areas to move around in comfort.

It’s not like being on a bus! You don’t have to remain seated, but there are plenty of fixed seats to choose from. In fact, the Port Venture has 100 fixed seats on board!

We have three restrooms and a Kiosk, where

52 greater port macquarie focus.

whales are identified.

I am a member of Greenpeace, and my special interest that I donate towards is the Oceans (surprised?) In fifty years, if we continue at our we have soft drinks, water, chips and lollies to current rate of fishing, there will be no fish left! sell.

The more that is known about these beautiful Our boat is the largest in the area. The boat whales, the more we can voice our support for is quite suitable for children, but whether you their protection – and make it happen. choose to take them out into the ocean is at your Are there children’s activities on board? discretion; having said that; we do have access for Yes, whale watching and dolphins too, if we you to bring a pram on board. see them. Boom net riding on the river Does the company have a in the warmer months is great for Naturalist or Marine Biologist kids. on board?

How long is the trip?

Brian likes to say that Ginny What are some of the “In the warmerhave our deckhand has a Marine so cruises you offer? al e months, w lf Biology degree the same as ha a d an ur Whale watching out ho our ght George Costanza (for you Family Fun Twilit dog on the ocean is up to 1 Sienfeld watchers!) Beyond cruise, with a hod and half hours. It’s a good for everyone an.” that, we have the most idea to book in; that way boom net rides experienced whale watching we can keep you advised skipper in the region driving our if the weather changes.We boat, and whale mad staff who do also have a variety of river give information and commentary on cruises with dolphin spotting. the whales while we are cruising.

Eco History two-hour morning or Brian got his skipper’s ticket in 1981 and has afternoon tea cruise: this has continuous cruising, been driving charter boats all over the place ever with tea, coffee, biscuits and cake. There is also since, including some pretty cool parts of the a commentary included on the river system and world. But he says that some of the most special its history. You can also upgrade to include a days he has ever had on the water are here in Devonshire tea.

Port – on those perfect days when the whales do We also have our very popular Bush BBQ cruise something special. on a Wednesday, which is a quality day with Is the company affiliated with a research or nature up to our exclusive Bush BBQ park, where non-profit organisation? we cook you lunch ashore.

Last month ORRCA held its Annual Whale In the warmer months, we also have our hour Census, which was on Sunday 24 June. Anyone and a half Family Fun Twilight cruise, with a hot can become involved and can submit data like we dog for everyone and boom net rides. did for any whale sightings (or dolphins or seals).

Recently we also did a run down the coast to We have also sent whale tail pictures the Slice of Haven festival at Laurieton, which through to Southern Cross Universities via NSW included some great whale watching on the way Department of Parks & Wildlife for whale tail down. The feedback from the passengers was signatures to build the library, as this is how so great, with the whole experience of seeing

our coastal town from the sea and arriving at the festival by boat. We are planning to do a trip down to the Laurieton markets in the near future.

Port Venture is also a great boat for parties and work functions – great for those special occasions.

Are you ecologically responsible?

I spoke with experts at Scania (my husband Brian will laugh at this) about the diesel engines, exhaust etc. that we have on the boat. I got a very long technical explanation of which I understand very little (maybe nothing). But apparently, it all means that these state of the art engines are clean, quiet running and use little fuel. This means that we provide the lowest impact on the environment possible.

Another plus with boats of this size is that following studies in Alaska in 2000-2002, it has been shown that inboard/diesel engines on a boat of our size creates least impact on noise volume levels to our marine friends – as cited by International Fund for Animal Welfare, May 2012.

So I guess you could say our boat was built whale friendly.

Come and like us on the cruise terminal Facebook site and have a browse through our whale watching albums. We have specials that happen from time to time that you can access here.

The Cruise Terminal’s expert whale watching tour operators will help you have a fun, successful whale watching trip right in our own backyard.

Drop into the booking office, found at the wharf end of Clarence Street, give them a call on1300 795 577 or drop them an email: bookings@portventure.com.au for more info.

Thanks Alison.

holidayfun!

SE KI NG

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BOO

What’s new @ the Zoo! Billabong Zoo is delighted to welcome Snow Leopards Kamala and Sabu into their state of the art exhibit. Be one of the first to be amazed by this beautiful and mystical big cat, one of the most endangered on the planet.

There are only 5 zoos in Australia with Snow Leopards

PAT A KOALA You have the chance to get up close and personal with koalas and are welcome to take photos while having a pat.

MONKEY FEEDING Enjoy the antics of mischievous Black Handed Spider Monkeys.

Anything can happen when our keepers feed them at 11am and 4pm.

MEET THE DINGOS Our friendly dingos love to interact with visitors. You can meet and greet and take some great photos while you have a pat, as

FRIDAY 6 JULY 10.30am WEDNESDAY 11 JULY 10am - 12pm Ages 6 - 9 1.30pm - 3.30pm Ages 9 - 13

The estimated numbers of the Snow Leopard in the wild are below 4,000, and there are only 5 zoos in Australia that have them.

CREATURE FEATURE If VIP treatment and a private animal experience is more your thing, then our Creature Feature is a must! We have various experiences available, including holding a snake, bottle feeding one of our zoo babies, feeding our endangered Spotted-tailed Quolls or a koala experience you’ll never forget. Creature Features can be purchased at our kiosk and bookings are essential – why not book in advance, to be sure you don’t miss out?

visit g.au r ouse.o h glass r call o 8888 6581

CRASH BANG RATTLE Every child has musical ability!

CRAZY CLAY CRITTERS

Come along and get noisy as you and your bub Crash Bang Rattle your way into the world of music.

Location: Ross Family Studio

Kids let your imagination go wild! they venture out with their keepers for daily walks at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

REPTILES CLOSE-UP We present interesting and educational shows weekends and school holidays at 2pm, or book ahead to ensure your group’s own personal presentation.

Location: Essential Energy ArtLab. Tickets $25 Child $20 Friends of the Glasshouse

UNDERGROUND WOMBAT HOUSE The wombat house exhibit has zoo professionals and visitors alike raving about this unique display.

Venture into the Billabong Mine Shaft to check out the wombats in their burrows behind glass.

AND IF THE MUNCHIES STRIKE A visit to our zoo café is a must, with yummy home-made desserts, fresh ground coffee, scrumptious sandwiches, wraps and burgers, decadent ice chocolates and many other tempting treats.

Tickets $8.50

Create crazy wild critters using air drying modelling clay that you will paint and decorate.

THURSDAY 12 JULY 1.30pm - 3.30pm Ages 9 - 13

PHOTO BUTTON JEWELLERY FRIDAY 13 JULY 10am - 12pm Ages 6 - 9 1.30pm - 3.30pm Ages 9 - 13

Inspired by the Of Love & War exhibition young people will create personalised jewellery using covered buttons and their own photographs.

Location: Essential Energy ArtLab.

MARBLING MASTERPIECES

Tickets $25 Child $20 Friend of the Glasshouse

Let’s go marbles at the Glasshouse!

Kids come and discover how to transform a plain piece of paper into a marbling masterpiece.

Location: Essential Energy ArtLab Tickets $25 Child $20 Friend of the Glasshouse

KIDS SPOT T

SATURDAY, 11am 9 JUNE 30 JUNE 7 JULY 14 JULY 11 AUGUST

Bring your kids and come me e along to one of our Kids ds Spots.

Kids Spot provides free art activities in the gallery for our Glasshouse ‘sprouts’ – helping them grow their creativity, learn new skills and make new friends!

Bookings essential, call 6581 8888.

Kids Spot is free!

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 (02) 6581 8888 www.glasshouse.org.au

greater port macquarie focus 53

in Greater Port Macquarie

>> Water Activities

>> Food and Wine

>> Lifestyle

>> Sporting

Dunbogan Boatshed & Marina Jordans Boating Centre and Holiday Park Junk cruises & Port Venture Port Macquarie Cruise Adventures Port Macquarie Kayak Adventures Stoney Park Water Ski and Wakeboard School Port Macquarie Surf School San Michelle Charters Amber Healing Farm Aqua Vitae Day Spa Port Macquarie Day Spa Sundowner Holidays The Yoga Shala - Beach Yoga

Bago Vineyards Blue Poles Cafe Gallery & B&B Cassegrain Winery Rose’s Vineyard Long Point Vineyard & Art Gallery Lorne Valley Macadamia Farm Café The Little Brewing Company Moorland Cottage

Port Macquarie Golf Club Emerald Downs Golf Course Port Macquarie Golf Driving Range Wauchope Country Club Port Macquarie Tennis Club

visit

>> Family Fun

Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park Hydro Golf Jumbos Playland Majestic Cinemas Wave Bowl Sea Acres Rainforest Centre Timbertown Heritage Theme Park Port Macquarie Panthers Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries Predator Outdoor Laser Games The British Lolly Shop Centre of Gravity

>> Arts and Cultural

Glasshouse - Arts, Conference and Entertainment Centre

>> Action and Adventure Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding Coastal Skydivers Ocean Star Deep Sea Fishing Portjet – Wild Thing Port Macquarie Camel Safaris Soul Surfing Skirmish Down Under Rock 2 Road Motorcyles

>> Tours

Port Macquarie Hastings Heritage Roto House Port by Night Tours Port Macquarie Museum Mid North Coast Maritime Museum

Get out there! www.52things2do.com.au

54 greater port macquarie focus.

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2012

Skirmish Down Under

Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding

At Skirmish Down Under we ensure our players have the best possible experience, with focus on FUN but with guidelines & procedures in place to provide a safe day of entertainment.

We use only the best possible equipment & paintballs available. All safety & protective clothing is provided.

We’re open 7 DAYS, and bookings are essential.

Phone 6587 5227 web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au ■ Daily 1 & 2 hr Trail Rides. Pub Ride 2 Days ■ Tuition before and during every ride ■ Quality horses, beautiful scenery and friendly guides ■ Freshly baked damper & refreshments after every ride.

■ 7 DAYS ■ ALL OCCASIONS ■ INDIVIDUALS WELCOME ■ PERFECT SAFETY RECORD

BRING THIS AD IN & RECEIVE 50 FREE PAINTBALLS - July ONLY

TRAIL RIDES AND TREKS

The Port Venture Whale watching season has started.

State of the art whale watching boat fantastic stability and largest boat in Port Macquarie.

Five diff erent viewing levels to take the best view advantage.

Whale commentary included.

Check out our facebook page for monthly specials, competitions and events

Port Macquarie and NEW field at Old Bar Phone: 1300 822 222. facebook: ‘Skirmish Down Under’ web: www.skirmishdownunder.com.au

Extreme Velocity ■ Experience body flight in a vertical wind Tunnel of wind speeds of 220 kmph ■ An adrenalin rush of body flight just like skydiving ■ Fun for all ages phone: 0447 359 669 web: www.extremevelocity.com.au email: enquiy@extremevelocity.com.au

BEST BOATS, BEST CRUISES, BEST PRICES. Phone: 6583 3058 or 0409 744 270 Web: www.cruiseterminal.com.au Address: River end Clarence St, Port Macquarie

Chinese Junk Our beautiful authentic Chinese Junk has river trips every day on the Hastings River. Be lulled on one of our two hour trips – either a tasty fish & chip lunch cruise or a yummy morning tea.

Sunset cruises also available, and some dolphin spotting on all cruises!

BEST BOATS, BEST CRUISES, BEST PRICES. Phone: 6583 3058 or 0409 744 270 Web: www.cruiseterminal.com.au Address: River end Clarence St, Port Macquarie

Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt web: www.hydrogolf.com.au phone: 02 6583 3200 Boundary St, Port Macquarie Open 7 Days

Cut me out Bu uy 2 buc cke etss off ba allss (vvalu ue $16 6) an nd rec ceivve yo ourr 3R RD BU UCKET FR REE E.. not to be used with any other offers

greater port macquarie focus 55

School Holiday Fun at the Stadium.

Over O Ov ver th tthe he p he past decade, ‘Inter ‘International Facility Management G h operated t d the th stadium t Group’’ has on behalf of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, providing both sport and recreation to the Hastings area, with over 1,500 people using the facility on a weekly basis.

2012 brings with it not only a various assortment of sport and activities as listed below, but also a time for excitement, as the stadium gets ready for its long awaited extension courtesy of a $5.3 million grant obtained from the Federal and State Governments. This extension will not only provide us with the ability to provide additional and larger programs, but also help us in gaining national and state tournaments plus events for the area.

School Holiday Program – the cheapest entertainment for kids on the Holiday Coast – $20 per child. This program runs each school holidays for 2 weeks between 9am - 3pm and is for children aged between 5 - 12 years. The program gives children an opportunity to mix and meet new friends (and old ones too) while enjoying sport, group games, jumping castles in a safe controlled environment. Enrolment forms and additional information is available from the Stadium webpage. To book a place, fill out a form and either email or fax.

Aussie Hoops – is for kids aged between 5 -10 years. These classes teach the child how to dribble, pass, shoot and work as a team – all skills required to make the step into competition.

Classes run during school term on Tuesdays from 3.45pm 4.30pm (see Stadium webpage for dates/costs). www.portstadium.com.au

before

WOO HOO ‘New Stock’ .

Be the first to look over the new stock in-store at Paradiso. Last month’s Making Room Sale was a fabulous success, with many buyers taking home treasures at bargain basement prices.

C l b Celebrate who you are.

W Wo ome men n of all ages, celebrat Women celebrate who you are, because you are beautiful. Beautiful Me … is a couture style photography session at Renee Bell Studios.

An indulgent, magazine style portrait session that captures your natural essence and beauty. Enjoy the luxurious experience of a full make over and the excitement of a professional photo shoot.

You will not have to worry about nerves or feeling uncomfortable as I will direct every look and pose. If you have any issues with certain parts of your body, I can discreetly make those areas not as visible or make them look wonderful through certain poses.

There is nothing more soul nourishing than a day spent on yourself and, in the process, capturing amazing stills to make you proud of whom you are.

Please contact the studio on (02) 6582 0144 or www.reneebell.com.au

This means there are now many new/pre-loved goodies in-store for you to choose from. Don’t forget as well as unique one off vintage finds, we also stock a wide range of specialised giftware.

Paradiso is the perfect place to find that illusive something for that oh so hard to buy for individual. With gift cards available and complimentary gift wrapping, we aim to make gift giving a pleasure.

We have increased our range of the ever so simple and stylish ‘Oh Deer’ jewellery – created with love by two sisters in Victoria, and we’ve brought in new bits from Zatini, for those that prefer a bolder style.

There are new homeware pieces from Perfect Pieces to help you accessories your home, whatever ‘your’ style. And by the way ... if you create ‘your style’, you’ll never be ‘out of style’ .

Oh, and did you know we’re keeping up with the times with a website: www.paradiso.net.au - soon to be an online shop.

Make sure to like us on Facebook and take a peep at our pinterest boards to keep up to date for more inspiring home decorating tips.

We’ve been hunting, collecting and gathering come see the fruits of our labour

New Stock In-Store Now 223 Hastings River Drive PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 (look for the red bike) Ph: 6583 1335 Like us on facebook

56 greater port macquarie focus.

WINTER TRADING HOURS: Tue - Fri: 10am - 4pm 10am - 1pm Sun: www.paradiso.net.au

focusinterview.

“ Raising a child with special needs is rewarding, yet often highly challenging and financially draining. After meeting special mum Lyndal Lee and her amazing son, Liam, and discovering just what challenges this family face on a daily basis, local Samantha Anderson and the Wauchope Apex Club have joined forces to hold a special fundraiser on August 14. Read on to meet some truly amazing people. ”

DIR FLOORTIME WORKSHOP FUNDRAISER

so solving skills, behaviour and anxiety levels and to better u understand and relate to the childÕs individual differences.

Th This is particularly helpful to children with Autism, Aspergers Sy Syndrome, Developmental Disorders and sensory issues, as th they are often challenged in many of these areas. ow did you meet Lyndal and her family, fam mil ily, ily H How did Wauchope Apex Club become involved in the and what made you decide to hold a fund fundfundraising efforts, and what is their role in the event? raiser for their benefit?

James Wallis: SamÕs father was an Apex Club life member, Sam: I met Lyndal and her family 4 years ago so Apex was an obvious choice for Sam when she approached through a mutual friend, and we both have us with a proposal to raise money for LyndalÕs family. The children with special needs. As I got to know Lyndal, I was imWauchope Apex Club jumped on board quickly and willingly. pressed by her strength in coping with such a challenging situOur role is the administration aspect of running the ation. I also felt frustrated by the lack of Þnancial workshop and anything else we can do to make it support that Lyndal receives to help with the a success. most basic needs of her children and in this Sam: I was also aware of the Apex case, mobility and transport for Liam.

“Most of us r Foundation, whose goal is to improve the Most of us probably take for granted fo probably take le ab quality of life of Australians with special g in being able to drive our children to be granted ren ild ch r ou needs Ð particularly children. e iv school in any type of vehicle, or bedr to type How much money would you like to to school in anying ing able to just pop our children on of vehicle, or be r raise through the event, and what will a bus. Lyndal jumped through hoops able to just pop ou the funds ultimately be used for? s.” for 2 years to obtain a suitable wheelbu children on a Sam: The course has the potential to raise chair for Liam, and now she doesnÕt up to $12,000, depending on the number of have a vehicle to accommodate it. I have participants. The Apex Club will give all proÞts another friend who was in exactly the same directly to Lyndal to help purchase a vehicle to predicament recently, and this time wanted to accommodate LiamÕs wheelchair. We are seeking sponsors do something to help and possibly raise awareness of the from the community to contribute to the presenters fees. Any Þnancial stress some families experience. sponsorship will signiÞcantly increase the proÞts directed to Please describe the DIR Floortime Workshop that’s been LyndalÕs family. arranged to raise funds for the family – who will be Who will benefit from attending the DIR Floortime speaking, and what topics they will be presenting?

Workshop, and where do they go to register/find out Sam: The workshop we are running to raise money more information? for Lyndal is being presented by ÔCreating MeaningÕ, the Sam: The workshop is aimed at parents, carers, professional partnership of Georgina Ahrens, Paediatric grandparents, therapists and educators of children with special Occupational Therapist and Dana Baltutis, Speech Pathologist. needs.

Both have gained their experience by working around the This is a one day workshop being held at the Port world with special needs children and now run their own Macquarie Panthers on Tuesday 14 August. The cost is $80 private practices, specialising in a number of therapies, for parents and grandparents and $120 for professionals and including DIR Floortime. They also travel around Australia and includes morning tea and lunch. To register or obtain more overseas training families and therapists in their approach. information, contact Samantha Anderson on 0409 866 916 or The workshop will help parents, carers, grandparents, email workshopdir@gmail.com. therapists and educators support children of any age in Thanks Sam. improving social skills, communication skills, problem

H

A F E W WO R D S F RO M LY N DA L L E E Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your family ...

Liam is 10 years old, and he has an extremely rare genetic syndrome, which was only discovered little over a year ago. It has only been recently seen in Liam and one other person, and is yet unnamed. It affects LiamÕs mobility and muscle growth and development, and he is therefore in a wheelchair.

Liam has a younger sister, Lucy, who is 4 years old. They both live at home in Port Macquarie with myself.

What benefit will the DIR Floortime Workshop be able to provide your family?

This fundraising event is a great seminar put together by Sam Anderson, and supported by Apex Wauchope, for professionals and parents/ guardians involved in looking after people and getting to know more about a particular therapy for people with Autism called DIR Floor Time Therapy, and will also feature a prominent speech pathologist from Sydney NSW. All proceeds after costs will be donated to our family in the hopes of purchasing a new vehicle for LiamÕs wheelchair to be able to travel in; he is just in a new wheelchair which is substantially larger than his previous one, and we have no means of transporting it to and from school − or anywhere else. We would love to be able to purchase a vehicle that Þts his chair in it, for getting to school, and taking it away on our many medical trips to Sydney.

I have been constantly looking to see if there is any sort of funding to support people in wheelchairs for private transport and have not been able to Þnd anything, and through networking with other parents and carers of people with wheelchairs, there seems to be nothing available.

Any final words ... do you have anyone you’d like to thank, or additional comments you’d like to add?

I would like to say a big thank you to Sam Anderson for all her efforts and countless hours organising this fundraising event, and to the Apex Club of Wauchope for getting behind her and supporting the seminar. It will be an amazing and educational day for all, and I am looking forward to learning more about this amazing therapy.

Thanks Lyndal. Interviews by Jo Atkins.

First photo: Samantha Anderson and son Jayden. Group photo: Lyndal Lee, son Liam Etherington, and James Wallis and Heather McPhail from Wauchope Apex Club. Thanks also to Port Macquarie Public School, for allowing the group photo to be taken on site. greater port macquarie focus 57

58 greater port macquarie focus focus.

greater port macquarie focus 59

focusinterview.

Port Macquarie has witnessed many changes in the last 150 years, and David Martin has captured this unique photographic history in his new book – The Changing Face of Port Macquarie …

The Changing Face of Port Macquarie …

David Martin.

D

How long have you been working on the book? avid, please share a bit of your I started a deliberate push to put it into book family background with us … form in November last year, although the ideas and I wasn’t born in the Port arrangements have been ongoing for years. I was Macquarie area, but I have a lot limited by which photos could or could not have theirr of family history here. My mother clearances obtained for publication. and father were both born in So how big a project was the book? How many Wauchope, and after they married, they eventually pages and photos? settled in Grafton – which is where I was born. But, The book is just over 170 pages. There are over 140 when I talk about having moved here, I always say I 0 historical photos, and about 60 per cent of those are ‘moved back’ to Port Macquarie – since my family’s previously unpublished. Even with the photos that heritage is here. have been published before, hopefully readers will seee After Grafton, I lived in Queensland for about 10 them in better quality in this publication. years, followed by another 10 years or so What time period do the photos date in the Lake Macquarie area. I moved from? back to Port Macquarie in 1999.

The earliest photos from Port You must have a strong The oldest photographs Macquarie date back to about affinity for the area to are almost 1860. It’s funny – I hadn’t complete your book, The ; you unrecognisable k they thought about it when I started Changing Face of Port could even thin ewhere the hobby, but last year it Macquarie … m so were taken e se u yo til occurred to me that that’s Yes. It was interesting … un … else in the the Royal Hotel be now 150 years ago! So that the idea kind of crept up distance, or maylican became a theme for the book, on me, actually. When first St Thomas’ Ang e hill.” th celebrating the 150 years of Port seeing historical photos of the Church up on Macquarie on film. town, it wasn’t enough for me to It wasn’t always about using the just wonder where they had been oldest photos available, although quite a taken; I had to go out and find the few of the oldest ones have been included. But it locations! was more about using photos from the right angles Once I’d found the spot where the photos had that could show the change and development as a been taken, I’d take my own photos and then photographic history that people could recognise compare the two, to see how the locations had today. changed. It wasn’t anything planned; the historical Is this photographic history more about the photography was just a hobby that grew. When I put landscape of the area, or did elements of the the ‘before and after’ photos together on the wall or changing lifestyle of the population also play a on my computer’s desktop … quite a few people saw part? them over the years who said, “Wow – you should do Changes to the town in general really ... the something with those!” And so I did!

“

60 greater port macquarie focus.

landscape land ndsc dscap apee … the layout of the land, the streets, and what the h t came before b f th way it is i now. I wanted t d to t cover the reclamation of Kooloonbung Creek. I also wanted to touch on the transition of the rural farms and properties to the south into the urban residential suburbs we know today.

The oldest photographs are almost unrecognisable; you could even think they were taken somewhere else … until you see the Royal Hotel in the distance, or maybe St Thomas’ Anglican Church up on the hill.

A familiar landmark brings context to an otherwise unfamiliar scene.

How did you go about sourcing all of the photos used in the book? It must have been a mammoth effort …

It was complicated and time-consuming wading through the quagmire of royalties and copyright ownership. It was often quite confusing, because there were often several people or authorities claiming ownership of the one photo.

I received donations of photos and one supporter in particular, a wonderful gentleman, was crucial to how good the photo selection could be. I also purchased quite a few photo clearances from the Historical Society.

Initially at least, it will be a very int run of pr d limite just 100 copies, asg full colour printin is expensive.”

“

The accompanying text in the book … was this your work as well?

Yes, it was. It’s a concise summary of the development and change in key parts of the town since European settlement. I only wanted minimal text in the book, as it is mostly about the photos, but I needed to have enough text to supply them with context and meaning. There are about 20 pages of solid text, with the remainder of the book being photos.

What is something that really surprised you while you were working on the book?

A few things, really. How well I’ve come to know ‘old Port Macquarie’ is one! It’s like seeing a completely different side to someone you already know really well – it’s quite a neat experience, and I hope I can impart that to a few readers as well.

Another surprise was how many trees there are now. In many old photos, the area looks bare and devoid of vegetation – the natural growth was cut down as the area was settled. But a lot of vegetation has since grown back.

And I was amazed how many nice people there are out there. I had to make a lot of unusual requests in order to get some of the modern photos ... asking to have access to someone’s balcony or permission to climb onto the roofs of buildings. Most folks, not all, but most, were very helpful and obliging.

When and where do you plan to release the book?

If all goes well at the printers, our opening will be in mid-late July. I’m hopeful of arranging

an opening at the Port Macquarie-Hastings Library, although that hasn’t been confirmed yet. Initially at least, it will be a very limited print run of just 100 copies, as full colour printing is expensive. I wanted this book to be printed in colour, as the old photos displayed in sepia are just lovely and each has their own character that would be lost in black and white; and the modern photos need to be in full colour to fully display the beauty of the area.

How will people be able to get their hands on a copy of the book, and what is the proposed price?

I’ve been determined to keep the costs as low as possible. I’m not after a profit, but I do need to make the project pay for itself. That means the price will be about $35 per copy in order to cover the cost of printing, photo clearances and other expenses. I won’t be placing it in bookshops, since that would add a profit margin to the cost.

Apart from the opening event, I’ll be selling the book on eBay, and I migth also turn up at the Sunday markets. People can contact me directly on 6582 6210 or at dgmartin@aapt.net.au to enquire or reserve a copy.

At this stage the first 100 copies might be the only ones printed. If there was sufficient demand, a second edition would be possible, but it would have to be somewhat different; this first 100 will be distinctly unique and only printed once.

Thanks David.

Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus 61

By Dr. Bobby Kumar from Bare Aesthetics

By Glenise McLaughlin from The Natural Health Sanctum

The risks of Cosmetic Surgery Tourism.

One thing I have noticed over my many years in clinical practice is that getting men to actually admit there is something wrong with them is like pulling teeth. A saying I hear all the time is: “If it is not broken, don’t fix it”. But when it comes to health problems, a symptom actually means something ‘is broken’ and it needs fixing.

One of the most common health problems experienced by men is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BHP. BHP is just a medical term that means a man’s prostate gland has become bigger than it should be.

Because the prostate gland wraps around a part of the urinary tract when it becomes enlarged, it actually presses on the tube that carries urine and alters the ability to pass urine.

Some of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate include difficulty starting to urinate, difficulty maintaining constant urinary flow, needing to urinate more frequently or more urgently. It can also lead to more frequent urinary tract infections, causing a burning sensation on urination.

The good news is that recent research has

found that a combination of some herbs can be very effective at managing BHP and reducing troublesome symptoms. Zinc is also an essential nutrient for men’s health and it is important to include zinc rich foods in your diet such as oysters, baked beans, herring, egg yolk and seeds like pumpkin and sunflower.

Even though BHP is not Prostate Cancer, it still needs to be treated. It doesn’t go away on its own. It is a troubling and uncomfortable medical problem. It is serious and requires proper management.

If you would like some help with management of your BPH or perhaps you know someone close who has BPH symptoms (not necessarily you, of course) make an appointment with me, Glenise McLaughlin – Naturopath at The Natural Health Sanctum on (02) 6583 3544 to discuss how to achieve your optimal health.

Cosmetic Surgery Tourism and overseas Breast Augmentation Surgery involve significant risks and complications; too often we see the distressing consequences in our practice. Here are several reasons why pursuing Cosmetic Surgery within Australia is a safer and better choice: Preparation for Surgery: the decision to pursue surgery in Australia involves a consultation with a Cosmetic Surgeon in person, allowing for discussion, physical examination, measurements and breast implant sizing. This is an opportunity to develop a relationship and trust with your Cosmetic Surgeon, essential to facilitating an optimal and satisfying outcome.

Women seeking natural results from breast augmentation require consideration given to the type of breast implants most suitable based on the woman’s anatomy, body shape and size, chest and breast dimensions. None of this is possible for women having surgery overseas who meet the person performing the surgery just before their operation.

Qualifications of the Surgeon: patients having surgery overseas often can’t check and do not know the training, credentials and experience of the person performing the surgery. In Australia, patients can verify the training, registration, qualifications and experience of the Cosmetic Surgeon.

Lack of post operative care and follow up: patients who have travelled overseas have no access to the surgeon for vital follow up care and recovery management.

Cost of corrective surgery: correction of

complications that arise on the patient’s return to Australia is at the patient’s own cost (usually more than the cost of having surgery in Australia in the first place); there is no coverage

by Medicare or private insurance.

Higher rates of complications overseas than in Australia, including: Capsular contracture: thickening and tightening of scar tissue around the breast implant, causing the breast to become deformed and painful, only corrected through further surgery (rates of up to 55% overseas compared to 2 - 4% in Australia) Infections and bleeding: a significant issue overseas due to unsterile conditions and poor patient care.

Defects and abnormally shaped breasts: occur due to incorrect and poor surgical technique and the use of sub-standard or questionable implant material.

For more information, contact Bare Aesthetics on 1300 676 003 or www.bareaesthetics.com.au

By Alison Jane from East Coast Medi Massage & Beauty Bar

The benefits of Massage.

Discover how you can recover from injuries faster, relieve pain and aid the body’s recovery from injuries. We utilise remedial massage techniques for your problem areas, so that you can get back to your everyday life more quickly. Remedial massage works with all of the muscles in the body. As each area becomes more relaxed, it decreases the tightening effect that it has had on the next area until eventually, the whole musculoskeletal system can work again as one. Other body systems benefiting from massage therapy include the circulatory and lymphatic systems – muscle fibres can now allow new oxygenated blood to enter and flush out the toxins that have built up: the immune system is strengthened; energy levels improved; and an overall feeling of wellbeing

62 greater port macquarie focus.

is restored. body, harmonising the essential I believe conventional connection between the body “ The stones e help to balanc medicine and natural and the mind. e th nd and grou ising medicine can complement Massage has a strong effect body, harmon the essential each other. Combined on the body physically, or n connectio body together, healthcare physiologically, and you will between thed. ” and the min consumers can receive an be surprised at just how much integrated approach to the it can be of help to you. Some of management of their health. these benefits include: Hot stone massage has been practised • Helps to relieve stiff or sore joints; for many years and by many cultures. Benefits • Encourages lymphatic drainage, which include relaxation of the muscles, release of can help to reduce swelling through the body; toxins, improved circulation, which in turn • Blood circulation through the body is helps relieve certain health problems such as improved; arthritis, anxiety, stress, back pain, depression, • Improves skin tone and colour. insomnia and problems related to blood Massage also releases endorphins, which circulation helping to promote overall health. are the body’s natural ‘feel good’ chemicals, The stones help to balance and ground the giving you a natural high.

The right fit.

Headaches?

Foggy brain?

Dr. Bobby Kumar, Cosmetic Surgeon, on breast augmentation & breast lift.

Bloated?

Tired all the time?

Stomach upsets?

If y you ou answered a ans nswered yes to any of the above, you could simply be suffering an intolerance to one or more foods you are ff i from f i t l consuming.

Food intolerances may cause a range of slow-onset symptoms that are seemingly unconnected to specific foods. Symptoms can take up to 72 hours to appear, in which time a lot of different types of food and drink have been consumed, baffling the sufferer as to what has caused their discomfort. Although not life threatening, the impact on sufferers can be significant, sometimes affecting their ability to live normal healthy lives.

Symptoms of food intolerance are many and varied and can include anxiety (acute/chronic), arthritis, ADD, bed wetting, bloating, chronic fatigue syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, depression, muscle aches and pains, headaches, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, itchy skin problems, mood swings, sleep disturbances, weight control problems – and many, many more. Sufferers often complain of seeming to be in a ‘fog’, feeling bloated and being tired all the time.

Up until now, food intolerances have been very difficult and time consuming to diagnose, due to the vagueness of the symptoms and the time lapse.

Now a quick, reliable, simple, safe test for food intolerance to 59 foods is available at The Natural Health Sanctum. This procedure is the world’s first in-clinic test available for food intolerance. This test now forms part of our comprehensive Food Intolerance Program, which is specifically tailored to suit each individual’s needs. Be quick, be smart, be symptom free – book in for your Food Intolerance Program now.

Glenise McLaughlin – Naturopath with over 17 years’ experience, specialises in the natural treatment of food intolerances. Phone 6583 3544.

Dr. Bobby Kumar.

Winter is the perfect time to pursue breast augmentation surgery, to be ready for the swimsuit season.

Women choose breast augmentation to enhance breast size, shape and volume for a variety of reasons, including: • Dissatisfaction with small or uneven breasts; • To restore volume and shape lost through breast feeding or weight loss; • To achieve confidence in a curvaceous and feminine figure.

Breast lift surgery may be combined with breast augmentation to address breast shape that changes with age and life events.

Women considering breast augmentation should be fully informed as to the range of choices available, with surgery tailored to meet each individual’s needs.

For example, choices regarding breast implants include: • Saline vs Silicone • Size/volume, shape, projection • Textured vs smooth (e.g. ‘furry Brazilian’) • Placement As a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and having performed more than 700 breast augmentations, Dr. Bobby Kumar has not only the training and qualifications, but also the experience required to achieve the most natural and satisfying results.

Consultations by appointment – call 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or visit www.bareaesthetics.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 63

Improve your smile with dental veneers A dental veneer is a thin covering that is placed over the front of your tooth.

Teeth which have gaps, are discoloured, poorly shaped, slightly crooked or chipped can benefit from dental veneers. Veneers can also be used to lighten teeth which are resistant to whitening. The use of veneers is a popular treatment option and can be done in a comfortable procedure.

Candidates for dental veneers must have a strong, healthy underlying tooth which is not heavily filled. The consultation appointment is an important part of treatment with veneers.

During this visit, different types of veneers, benefits of each type and your needs are discussed. A thorough smile assessment is undertaken, with use of digital technology for proper case selection.

There are three main types of veneers: direct or indirect composite resin or ceramic. Direct composite veneers are generally cheaper and are placed in one appointment. The resin is carefully bonded to your teeth and sculpted

64 greater port macquarie focus.

to the desired shape. A special light is used to harden the composite resin. The veneer is then smoothened and polished to look like a natural tooth.

Ceramic veneers are thin shells made of strong dental ceramic. Often a small amount of enamel is removed from the front and sides of the tooth to make room for the veneer and prevents the veneered tooth from feeling or looking bulky or unnatural. An impression of the prepared teeth is recorded and sent to the dental laboratory for manufacture of ceramic veneers that fit your individual teeth. In the next visit, the thin veneer shells are carefully bonded to the prepared teeth with special glue.

Like your natural teeth, veneers need to be looked after and treated with care. If you wish to have an appointment to check if we can improve your smile with dental veneers, please feel free to contact one of our friendly experienced staff on (02) 6584 7272.

Treatment for antiageing and acne scarring.

Massage @ Port Macquarie.

He LLin He Ling ing Yi in ing Yi Ying (Dip. Rem. Massage) Ma – known as ‘Ling’ – has opened her new practice in the Lighthouse Beach/Shelly Beach area. Until earlier this year a very popular masseur at Settlement City, Ling felt the need to provide her clients with an even better massage experience, in surroundings totally conducive to complete relaxation and a sense of peaceful wellbeing.

Massage @ Port Macquarie operates from a purpose-built, air conditioned home clinic, where parking is only metres from the door and where clients need have no concerns of parking fines or congestion; they can arrive relaxed, to enjoy their treatments without a care in the world. Naturally, as Ling is fully accredited, health fund rebates are available and HICAPS provides an instant rebate service.

Medical research has evidenced that professional massage therapies provide highly beneficial treatments for a variety of conditions, including management of nausea and vomiting, chronic lower back pain, muscular and depressive disorders and sleep deprivation, substantially improving circulation and introducing fresh oxygen to ailing tissues.

A highly experienced (and surprisingly strong) therapist, Ling operated her own clinic in China prior to settling in Australia.

Fully qualified to Australian standards and a member of the Australian Association of Massage Therapists, it is impossible to meet Ling and not be impressed. Sincere, warm and caring, she looks after her patients – male, female, young and not-soyoung – with compassion, respect, understanding and always, with traditional Chinese values.

New Skin Firming Treatment.

Bree Billin at Glasshouse Hair.

I have been part of the Glasshouse Hair and Beauty team for 10 months now and love the creative and friendly atmosphere the salon emanates.

With five and a half years of experience in the industry, I love all aspects of the hairdressing profession, but my favourite is definitely colour work. Always looking for new and innovative ideas, I have constantly kept a keen interest in training with different colour companies to provide my clients with fantastic service and gorgeous hair. Everyone loves beautiful, healthy hair and with the Loreal Professionnel innovative colour system, we can work together to give you the look you want.

I'm taking this opportunity to introduce the new Loreal dia richesse and dia light range, with a fabulous personalised package just for you.

A free consultation will be provided to ensure the right products are prescribed for your hair type and style, and at the end of your treatment I will provide you with some takehome style tips, so you can keep your salon style with ease every day.

Make an appointment for your $99 package today.

Phone Bree at Glasshouse Hair & Beauty on 6583 2088.

This Thi Th is new is new treatment t is the most advanced vertical skin needling technology. technolog This treatment t stimulates your own natural collagen to multiply, plumping out lines and wrinkles and reducing acne scarring. It is similar to fractional laser but without the side effects and downtime. Typically, you will see results after the first treatment. Lasting and more significant results will occur after 4 to 6 treatments (spaced 4 weeks apart). Your skin will continue to improve over the next 6 - 12 months after a course of treatments.

Skin-firming technology is designed to treat: • Aged, sagging skin • Fine lines and wrinkles • Smokers lines around the lips • Skin tightening and rejuvenation • Large pores • Stretch marks • Scars (acne, surgical and burns) Beachside Medi Spa offers a comprehensive range of the latest skincare and aesthetic treatments to enhance, improve or correct one’s self image and confidence. We ensure a superior level of service through our highly skilled and experienced team of professional clinicians. Whatever your aesthetic needs are, we will listen to your concerns and provide an individual treatment program that helps achieve your goals in a friendly and caring environment.

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focusinterview.

Move, Eat, Live Well Program.

Maya Spannari. i Maya. What is your role with Port MacquarieHastings Council?

My new role with Council is the Healthy Communities Coordinator, funded through the Australian Government’s Healthy Communities Initiative to deliver the local Move, Eat, Live Well program. My role is a program management role that is focused on program development and delivery, promotion and referral, partnership development, policy development, reporting to the funding agency and evaluation.

What is the Move Eat Live Well program, and what led to it becoming established in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area?

The Move, Eat, Live Well program is an exciting initiative that builds on a previous program that Council delivered through 20092011. Through this initial program we delivered a wide range of activities that proved to be extremely popular and effective at engaging the community in healthy lifestyle activities. So you may have seen the Move Eat Live Well logo, website and promotional material before.

The funding through the Healthy Communities Initiative is an opportunity to build on the success of the previous Move Eat Live Well program.

The Australian Government developed the Healthy Communities Initiative to help reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity, by maximising the number of adults engaged in physical activity and healthy eating programs.

We will be delivering a broad range of free activities for people who meet the program criteria. The activities will include a series of: • 10 week Heart Moves Programs • 10 week HEAL (Healthy Eating Active Lifestyle) programs • 12 week Losing it in the Bush programs in close partnership with the North Coast Area Health Service and HEAL, specifically targeting rural communities • 10 week HEAL programs specifically for the Birpai Aboriginal Lands Council and Aboriginal community • Heart Foundation walking groups and 66 greater port macquarie focus.

Maya Spannari, tells us about the local Move, Eat, Live Well program which will help to promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in our community... development of walk leaders in partnership with the Heart Foundation Area Coordinator • Cooking classes and demonstrations, teaching people about nutrition, reading labels, diet, practical cooking sessions, and storing food safely • Installation of fixed exercise equipment at Town Beach, complemented by instructional sessions run by accredited trainers.

• A Healthy Communities BBQ challenge, which will work with prominent community leaders to have a cook off’ with the winner cooking the healthiest BBQ options • Promotion of our local community gardens, including Apex Park (Laurieton), Kendall Community Centre ‘Global Garden’, Wauchope Neighbourhood Centre community garden and the soon to come Port Macquarie Community Garden • Linking with and promoting a range of local, state and national health initiatives, such as the Get Active Coaching service, Swap it Campaign, Healthy Living Network, Tomorrow People, Healthy Food Fast cookbooks and much more.

The best thing is that activities will run across the area, including Laurieton, Wauchope, Port Macquarie and rural villages (for example, our first rural programs will be running in Kendall and Rollands Plains), making it easier to access the program. All program activities will be delivered by professionally accredited and experienced trainers, including dieticians, nutritionists, exercise physiologists and fitness leaders.

The REASONS WHY …

The Port Macquarie-Hastings area has one of the largest ageing populations in Australia, and we also have higher than average rates of chronic disease factors, such being overweight, high blood pressure, respiratory illness and Type 2 diabetes. The area also has higher than average risk factors related to social and financial disadvantage, and this is why the program is targeted at adults who are not in the workforce.

What members of the community is the program aimed towards?

The program is targeting adults over the age

of 18 and predominately not in the workforce and at risk of chronic disease. This can include students, carers, new parents, retirees, veterans, long term unemployed, casual and part-time employees, people who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and people with a disability.

What does Council hope the program will achieve locally?

We hope that as many local residents take up this opportunity to: • Increase awareness of the importance of physical activity and healthy eating • Access the proven and appropriate physical activity, healthy eating and healthy lifestyle programs • Increase participation in these community based programs for those predominantly not in the paid workforce • Utilise resources currently available through local government, the community, the commercial fitness industry and non government health sector.

Move Eat Live Well was officially launched in June. What happened on the day, and what kind of reception did the program receive?

The official launch was held on 13 June and commenced with a Heart Foundation walk along the breakwall and Town Beach (fortunately, the drenching rain held off for us) with a guest appearance by Eric the Blue Man from the Swap it Campaign and representatives from Heart Foundation Walking, Heart Moves and HEAL programs.

We then held a healthy breakfast followed by a Welcome to Country by Aunty Rita Lattimore, and formal speeches by Federal Member for Lyne Rob Oakeshott, Tony Hayward General Manager for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, and Rebecca Radonovic from the Healthy Living Network.

The program launch has been well received, and registrations are flowing in thick and fast.

We already have two completely full programs and others are filling quickly, so if you are interested, register as soon as you can. Having said that, if programs are full, don’t worry − we will get you onto a waiting list for future

programs and events.

What are the costs involved for participants?

Program activities will be free for people over 18 who hold a pension, student, veterans, seniors, or health care card. If you don’t hold one of these cards, we can still refer you to a provider; alternatively, if you have a chronic disease, your General Practitioner can also refer you to programs.

Please explain what the ‘PassPort to Success’ is and how it will work to benefit community members?

Each participant will receive a ‘PassPort to Success’, which is an incentive scheme to encourage people to complete more than two activities of the program. There is a points based system, and the PassPort must be stamped and signed to accrue points, which can be used to receive a gift and go into a draw to win prizes.

What are some of the other key benefits community members will receive by becoming involved with Move Eat Live Well?

• Feeling better both physically and mentally • Social connections and fun – getting to meet new people and enjoying the programs • An increased awareness of healthy eating and importance of physical activity • Access to physical infrastructure such as community gardens (grow healthy food locally) and fixed exercise equipment.

Thanks Maya.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

registrations Registrations are now open for the program. Where can people go to find out more information?

Move Eat Live Well booklets are now available in Council offices, libraries and at community service based organisations.

You can also register right now by going to www.pmhc.nsw.gov. au/livewell or by calling customer service on 6581 8111.

A Sensory experience.

Welcome to East Coast Medi Massage & Beauty Bar, a hidden oasis centrally located in Port Macquarie’s CBD combining the ancient healing traditions of Hot Stone Therapy with an extensive menu of modern western beauty treatments. Science in Harmony with nature ... massage and beauty for your health.

East Coast Medi Massage & Beauty Bar is a sanctuary for your body and soul. This unique beauty, wellness and medi-spa offers 2 single rooms, a relaxation lounge, massage bar, spray tanning bar and a natural nail bar with shellac nails. Our highly qualified Aestheticians, Beauty and Massage Therapists will provide you with a luxurious experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and stress free. We offer a wide range of massage and beauty treatments that are thoughtfully designed to rebalance the synergy between mind and body and to capture the essence of feeling and looking good on all levels.

We specialise in hot stone massage. Benefits include muscle relaxation, release of toxins, improved circulation, which in turn helps relieve

certain health problems such as arthritis, anxiety, stress, back pain, depression, insomnia and problems related to blood circulation, helping to promote overall health.

Come in and meet our aestheticians: Alison Jane, who’s been studying and practicing massage and natural therapies for the past 15 years – most recently completing a Bachelor of Health Science in Complementary Medicine.

Claudia-Rose has completed a Diploma of Beauty Therapy. Claudia is up to date with the latest trends and techniques.

Indulge now by booking into East Coast Medi Massage & Beauty Bar for all your wellness and beauty needs ... our opening specials are 20% off all treatments until the end of July.

Please call today on 6584 0061 to make your appointment, or drop by and meet our new team, Alison Jane and Claudia-Rose.

greater port macquarie focus 67

Eyecare Plus Port Macquarie Achieves 5 Star National Accreditation Two local optometry practices have recently been accredited for quality, service, cleanliness and value at their locations in William and in Horton Street, Port Macquarie. In fact the practices’ achieved the highest possible distinction: The 5 Star National Accreditation level.

Optometrist Adrian Cornale said that “It is a great honour to receive the 5 Star Eyecare Plus Accreditation. Every two years we are evaluated on more than 110 key criteria which determine how effectively we deliver excellence in eye care and eyewear to our patients”.

“Amongst others, these criteria require our practice to meet standards for diagnostic equipment, staff training, patient service as well as the quality and good value of the products that we offer”.

L-R: Alanna, Julie, Adrian & Robyn of Eyecare Plus William Street proudly showing off their 5 Star National Accreditation award.

y Comprehensive eye examinations y Adults and children’s vision y Cataract & glaucoma testing y Digital Retinal Imaging

Christine & Wayne of Eyecare Plus Horton Street proudly showing off their 5 Star National Accreditation award.

y Contact lenses y Spectacle frames and sunglasses y Instant health fund claims y Most consultations bulk-billed to Medicare

Hanks Optometrists have 2 locations in Port Macquarie: 95 William Street 6583 7333

1/29 Horton Street 6584 3948

www.eyecareplus.com.au/portmacquarie

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focusinterview.

d n a r e t t e b , r e g . g . i .

B e r o m n e v now e

Life Express Darren, the newly appointed Manager for Life Express Fitness Centre, Port Macquarie, introduces us to the team.

M

anager Darren Rigney’s Haley Hyde love of sport and fitness Haley has been a local for 24 years and loves began with Little Athletics the area. For the last 10 years her specialty has at the age of 5 and has been teaching fitness classes, and she delights continued for over 30 in the difference they can make to your years with athletics, cross country, triathlon, wellbeing and confidence. So get on board at soccer, rugby union, surf lifesaving and cricket.

Life Express and join Haley in her cycle classes, “I’ve also been a consistent gym member since Body Attack and Body Combat classes. the age of 15.”

Rene Stewart At Life Express, our class Rene is a talented Personal timetable, qualified staff and Trainer with over 9 years’ customer service set the experience. Her passion At Life benchmark in our Industry. for health and fitness Express, And now we’ve also saw her nominated our class extended our opening for the Top 5 National ed ifi timetable, qual er om hours: 5am to 9pm, Personal Trainers st cu d staff an e th t se e Monday to Friday; 8am to of 2009. At Life ic rv se r benchmark in ou 5pm Saturday; and 8am to Express, Rene’s focus Industry.”

12pm Sunday. is on strength training, So get on board with cardiovascular fitness, Life Express today, by taking posture, core strength, advantage of our $29 one week trial, weight loss and fat loss, with a which of course includes unlimited entry special interest in nutrition and female and classes. health, including pregnancy.

PERSONAL TRAINERS Laura Harris Dillan Robertson After meeting ‘Loz’, you can’t help but be A qualified Personal Trainer, Dillan has just inspired by her dedication to keeping fit and recently returned from the Gold Coast, where healthy and her commitment to promoting he worked in two Fitness Centres as a personal health and physical activity to people of all trainer and in their nutrition and supplement ages. She’s been involved in the fitness industry stores. At Life Express, Dillan can help you while studying to be a Physical Education with his expertise in weight loss, mass gain, Teacher at university. Laura’s infectious lean mass gain, boxing for fitness and diet and enthusiasm is another great reason to get on supplement plans. board at Life Express.

Kelly Marchant Kara Hirsch Kelly has been involved in fitness since 1997 After more than 10 years’ experience, Kara is and with Life Express for over three and a half continually inspired to be a part of her clients’ years. She is also a qualified Personal Trainer journey towards a healthy new lifestyle. At Life with a passion for Group Fitness, instructing Express she specialises in mums: from pre-natal four different styles of Les Mills Programs throughout pregnancy and on to post-natal. including: Body Pump, Body Combat, Body Kara’s expertise includes optimal nutrition and Vive & CXWorx. Kelly also instructs a Body Box strength training exercise; to get your pre-baby freestyle class. body back quickly.

“

n o e m Ti

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Huge Facility Best Equipment Air Conditioning Personal Training Easy Parking No Waiting Classes Crèche

d r a o b n o t e G Call 6584 1122

160 Hasting Rivers Drive Port Home Zone, Port Macquarie (Opposite Harvey Norman)

www.lifeexpress.com.au greater port macquarie focus 69

focusinterview.

Debbie Marks Podiatry.

Esttablished llocal Established ocal Podiatrist Debbie Marks recently acquired her Masters in Health Science. She tells us about her business and team. ow long has Debbie Marks Podiatry been operating in Port Macquarie, and tell us a little about the business ...

I established the practice at these premises (87 William Street) in 1980. At this time, the premises was only a one consulting room practice. After the business grew the practice was extended many times; now consisting of 3 consulting rooms, reception area, waiting room along with work rooms and a sterilising area.

Initially the practice started just with myself.

Then I employed a receptionist, and as the practice got increasingly busier, I eventually employed a Practice Manager and two other Podiatrists.

The other Podiatrists are Talysha Reeve, who works on a part-time basis on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and full-time when I am away on leave. Grace Yeh also works with us on a part-time basis 2 days per week, on a Thursday and Friday. Grace also attends to our house bound patients.

What is Podiatry?

Podiatry or podiatric medicine is a branch of medicine devoted to the study of, diagnosis, and medical treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle, and leg. Within the field of podiatry, Podiatrists can also focus and specialise on different areas, including sports medicine, biomechanics, pediatrics, diabetes, vascular and neurological testing, dermatological, nail surgery or primary care. In Australia, podiatry is considered as an allied health profession, and is practised by individuals licensed by the National

70 greater port macquarie focus.

Board of Podiatry.

Debbie, you recently completed your Masters. What did that entail?

I undertook 5 years of external study through the University of South Australia to obtain my Masters of Health Science (Podiatry). This meant time managing to complete extensive study while still continuing to run the very busy practice, and on occasions travelling to Adelaide to undertake block training and lecture sessions, in addition to endless reading and assignments.

What does your qualification mean for the local community?

It means along with over 30 years of clinical knowledge, I also have an understanding of Evidence Based Medicine (what is proved to be effective by research). By combining my years of experience and my degree I believe I am able to give a more extensive quality of care to my patients.

What are the most common ailments in Podiatry?

General Podiatry conditions consist of corns, callouses and ingrown toe nails; however, Podiatry also treats all forms of foot and lower leg pain, the most common being heel pain, achilles tendonitis and forefoot pain.

Debbie, what are your qualifications?

I hold an Associate Diploma of Podiatry acquired at NSW TAFE in 1980. A Masters of Health Science (Podiatry) 2012, and I have completed multiple post graduate courses in all areas of Podiatry.

What do you love about Podiatry?

I love to care for people. Podiatry continues to satisfy me for all the initial reasons I went into the profession in the first place, and it gives me the ability to continue learning and expanding my knowledge. I still love to get up every morning and come to work even after 32 years.

Introducing our other Podiatrists:

Talysha Reeve – Podiatrist Qualifications: Talysha holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Podiatry) and also a Cert IV in Fitness – qualified Personal Trainer.

Number of years in practice?

I have been working in private practice for over 5 years.

Why did you get into Podiatry?

I have always been interested in sports medicine and the biomechanics of the lower limb.

What do you love about Podiatry?

I love the feeling you get when you are able to help a patient become pain free. Seeing how their overall quality of life improves. I combine alternative methods with conventional Podiatry treatment to help achieve the best outcomes for my patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions.

What is your area of speciality?

I specialise in Biomechanics and orthotics. I have completed further training in myofascial dry needling (working on tight/sore muscles), massage/soft tissue therapy, as well as mobilisation and manipulation of joints of the

lower limb – an area of treatment where I love to spend most of my time. My additional qualifications greatly adds to my understanding of biomechanics and sports associated conditions in which I treat.

Grace Yeh – Podiatrist Qualifications: I hold a Bachelor of Health Science (Podiatry).

Number of years in practice?

I have a background in Community Health.

I practiced in Queensland for the past 2 years before accepting a transfer to Port Macquarie in April of this year.

Why did you get into Podiatry?

I am an avid sports person and play a lot of basketball and soccer. I believed that by studying a medical based subject like Podiatry it would give me a better insight and awareness of my own body and how to look after it.

What do you love about Podiatry?

I love working with and caring for all age groups and like it when people comment after a treatment with “I feel like I am walking on air!”

What is your area of speciality?

I take a thorough approach to treating patients with Diabetic foot conditions and general Podiatric foot conditions. I am also the Podiatrist who attends to home visits for house bound patients only.

Other other support staff are: Receptionist – Caryn Pearson Practice Manager – Lea Robinson Thanks Debbie.

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WITH TERRI

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L E O.

SAG I T TA R I U S.

MAR 21 - APR 20

JUL 24 - AUG 23

NOV 23 - DEC 21

Don’t allow the winter chill to affect your fire; take a goal and put it into action. You are currently challenged by issues of selfworth, so it is important to honour yourself at this time.

Rose Quartz (the crystal of love), will improve self-esteem.

Ignore your insecurities and fears, and concentrate on your strengths. Wake up your enthusiasm and connect with your fire, the mover and shaker within. Set some fresh goals and lighten up for your party season.

Citrine is a powerful joy strengthener.

Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance to try a little new goal setting.

Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.

TAU RU S.

V I RG O.

C A P R I C O R N.

APR 21 - MAY 21

AUG 24 - SEPT 23

DEC 22 - JAN 20

Set yourself free from self-criticism this month; it has taken its toll on your confidence. If you start to believe in yourself, you will very quickly see a difference. It is times like these when your head strength can carry you.

Tourmaline will balance your energies.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22

Love yourself enough to not worry about what other people may think. This nasty thought process has had a sad effect on you lately; smile at your reflection, and think kind compliments.

Turquoise will strengthen your selfappreciation.

Take some time out of your busy schedule for yourself. You deserve a break, but more importantly, you need to freshen your mind and reconnect with your creative self – the ‘best’ reason for a holiday.

Carnelian is great for connecting our creative and thought energies.

Important words need to be spoken to bring a happy outcome to a potential negative situation. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart, as your intention will be felt. Enjoy some laughter, as celebration is on its way for a family member.

Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

Avoid over thinking things, as this is exhausting and the reason why you are blurry in your thoughts. Take a big breath of white light and think one question until you have an answer. Your mind needs to focus on positive possibilities more.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts.

The challenges you are facing at home stem from not being appreciated or honoured. It is time you try something new to break the dynamics and re-educate those surrounding you to be a little less selfish and more considerate of your needs. A journey is a strong possibility, resulting in further career success.

Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence and appreciation.

CANCER.

S C O R P I O.

P I S C E S.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

OCT 24 - NOV 22

FEB 20 - MAR 20

Don’t get caught up in holding onto garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy!

Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.

Take some time out of your busy schedule to smell the roses. You have been focused too much on the harder areas of life and have forgotten to place importance on the simple, nice things.

Joy will begin to fill your being again.

Amethyst connects our spirit to appreciation of life.

You may be feeling a little ‘up-rooted’ lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook.

Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.

greater port macquarie focus 71

education + training

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Creating exceptional results through people Marilyn Brien, Leadership Management Australasia (LMA) LMA covers the Mid North Coast, including Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Grafton.

We are represented in Port Macquarie by the enthusiastic and highly motivated team members, Susan Judd and Marilyn Brien.

Tell us about your business: LMA, a Registered Training Organisation, has been creating exceptional results through people for 40 years through our unique learning and development process. We provide adult learning in interactive workshops.

What makes your training and development different from others? We don’t train people – we develop them. Information received through traditional training methods is quickly forgotten.

Instead, through our unique development process we change and improve the way people think, interact, work and behave – providing our participants lasting behavioural changes, and our clients exceptional and ongoing value and return

on investment.

What’s happening in Port Macquarie for LMA? We are approaching a very exciting time in Port Macquarie, with participants from The Performance Edge and Challenge of Leadership programs graduating in the next few weeks.

Enrolments for the next round of these two programs are open now. This heralds a remarkable opportunity for local businesses that are serious about developing themselves and/or their people.

Who would benefit from these programs?

Any business owners or key staff – programs cover a wide range of development opportunity including productivity, communication, sales, time management, leadership and empowerment.

FREE – business opportunity and contact details? To participate in a Free Needs Analysis or Management Competency Analysis for your business, contact Susan Judd on 0400 019 700 or Marilyn Brien on 0418 693 914.

Growing businesses from good to great HR Culture is all about helping businesses grow. The team take the time to assess each client’s business productivity and build practical action plans to lift performance from good to great.

Organisations large and small, across all industries, call on HR Culture for sound solutions to the complex challenges that come with running a business and managing staff.

The team at HR Culture analyse every client’s unique situation to develop and deliver individualised programs – never cookie-cutter packages.

Learn how to prosper through people At HR Culture, it’s not just about systems and processes, although they have their part to play too; it’s also about improving communication and connections between individuals.

HR Culture aims to help organisations prosper through their people. Susan and Kelly are both accredited in the DiSC The Principal, Susan Judd, and the team are assessment system, which helps clients all specialists in HR, business and workplace better understand the personality profiles of coaching and provide training services their colleagues and customers. By and workshops tailored to understanding people’s different business needs. motivational, communication New business coach and behaviour styles, R on board! HR Culture “The team at H improvements in internal every recently welcomed Kelly Culture analyse and external business tuation Lamb to the team. client’s unique si relationships can be liver Kelly has a long track to develop and de achieved. ograms record in business individualised pr Backed by a national utter management and – never cookie-c network of expertise development, people packages. ” What sets HR Culture apart is leadership, relationship its membership of the national building and facilitation.

HR Coach Network, an organisation Kelly’s extensive experience in of qualified HR and business coaches that strategic planning, goal setting and specialise in improved business performance working with teams to improve productivity through improved employee performance. and performance is a real asset to HR Culture’s This network allows HR Culture to tap into clients. the latest research, software and best practice As the President of the Hastings Business processes from around the country and around Women’s Network and the former Bank the world, to provide clients with the most Manager of Westpac in Port Macquarie, Kelly effective business solutions. is dedicated to helping local businesses achieve Visit www.hrculture.com.au success.

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Leading the way in Christian Education.

You entrust your child to us for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week … what are you expecting for your child during this time? eritage Christian School is a uniquely Christian educational opportunity for your family. We want you to experience first-hand the unique quality of Heritage.

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the common goal of allowing our students to learn, grow and equip themselves with the very characteristics displayed in the life of Jesus Christ. Hence our mission statement: educating … nurturing …empowering.

We invite you to contact our office and arrange for a school tour – you will be pleasantly surprised by what we have to offer – many visitors to our school often are!

In order to deliver what we promise, our teaching programs are constantly being reviewed and updated. We aim to teach your child from a biblical viewpoint while exceeding the requirements of the NSW Board of Studies syllabus guidelines. We take pride in our wonderful teachers and applaud them for always going the 'extra mile' for our students.

At Heritage we provide a quality, Christian Education for your child, delivered by highly qualified and professional teachers. Did you know that ALL of our staff are committed Christians and see their work at Heritage as part of their ministry? This combined goal has resulted in a unique nurturing and safe environment for our students, for over 25 years.

Our mission at Heritage is to build upon the foundation of Christian teaching that is provided at home. We see ourselves as partners with our parents, all working towards

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Our primary students enjoy large, bright, airy classrooms that are constantly changing with displays of student artwork and creativity, which is a delight to the senses. Combined with lessons in the new library, music lessons in our Creative Arts Centre and various sporting and outdoor activities, our Junior School is blessed with variety in their daily curriculum.

Complementing our secondary students’

quality program of core key learning area subjects, our students enjoy lessons from a wide selection of elective classes. Heritage is proud of its reputation of delivering a high industry standard within our Hospitality area. With a specialised commercial kitchen equipped with stainless steel work benches, appliances and barista training equipment, we offer excellent training within this growing industry. Our students also enjoy many other interest areas, including Visual Arts, Drama, Music, Textiles & Design and Wood & Metal Technics. For those students whose talents shine when they are outdoors, we deliver subjects such as the Duke of Edinburgh

Award, Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (SLR), Physical Activity and Sports Science (PASS), to name but a few.

It is a challenge to put into words the atmosphere and culture of our school. Why wait, come and visit our school!

We would like to extend to you, an invitation to our Open Day (which we are running in conjunction with our Grandparents Day) on Tuesday, 14 August, from 10am – 1pm.

Our primary and secondary students will be treating our visitors to dance, items, morning tea and a delicious light lunch. Contact us now – we look forward to sharing with you!

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enhance, enrich, enliven Three words – enhance, enrich and enliven. What do they mean to you?

For the College it is about improving skills to a higher level, striving for quality and excellence and stimulating activity in the wider community. The focus of the Community College is to create the opportunity for all members of the community to reach their goals through training and education.

So many of our students start with a small step – that first phone call perhaps – and begin their journey in a supportive and friendly environment. Personal growth and learning new skills are two of the benefits gained from undergoing training. The Community College offers a diverse range of short courses and qualifications to help build new skills for employment, personal enrichment and healthy living.

There is an excited buzz around the College at the moment, as we prepare for the next stage of judging for the NSW State Training Awards.

We have progressed to the finals and will be attending the presentation event in August, when the winners will be announced. Thank you to all our supporters, and stay tuned on our Facebook page for progress.

Speaking of Facebook, social media is fast becoming a frontline strategy for branding a

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ours ou rsses rses small business online. One of the many ccou courses on offer in July, Social Media for Business, will show you how to set up and implement social media effectively including Facebook, Google, Twitter, You Tube and Blogs.

Work Health and Safety is another hot topic, and our new course in July will guide you through the implementation of WHS in your business and assist in the development of an action plan. Looking for something a bit lighter? There are many other courses on offer, including languages, cooking and creative activities to spice up the winter months.

Adult learning is about expanding your horizons. Whether work related, formal or informal, learning is a continuous journey.

Contact the Community College and take the next step to enhance, enliven and enrich your life. With so many courses, there is sure to be something to inspire you.

Visit our new look website for course information, or phone 6583 7288.

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St Agnes’ Parish Primary Schools St Agnes’ Parish Primary schools, St Joseph’s, St Agnes’ and St Peter’s are unique in that they have a long tradition of excellence and a sensitivity to the pastoral care and wellbeing of the students in their care.

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ach of the Parish schools has dedicated members of staff who continually aim at providing the best educational outcomes for every student. The staff view the ‘changing world’ as a great opportunity to assist students to develop knowledge, think creatively, engage in new skills and value the notion of life-long learning. Emphasis is on promoting personal growth through a curriculum and a culture that caters for the individual’s spiritual, academic, social and physical needs.

Schools, in partnership with parents, play a critical role in the formation of young people.

Important factors that contribute to Catholic School excellence are: Christian values such as respect for others; Pastoral care to meet the variety of needs of the students and community;

A welcoming community experience for students, teachers and parents that encourages engagement and commitment; Academic excellence and support for students who need extra assistance; An emphasis on personal, social and spiritual development in an ever-changing world; A broad curriculum that provides opportunities in academic pursuits, speech and drama, developing interpersonal skills, music, sport and various other activities that positively influences the growth and development of the students.

St Agnes’ Parish Primary schools continue to work collaboratively and are committed to providing cultures of learning excellence, where Christian values underpin everything that happens in the school.

“Schools, in partnership with parents, play a critical role in the formation of young people. ”

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Pathways To HSC Success Enrol In Excellence St Agnes’ Parish Secondary Schools provide a unique choice to students.

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tudents wishing to enrol in a St Agnes’ Parish Senior College have the choice of two pathways: 1 . A C A D E M I C PAT H W AY

MacKillop Senior College and St Joseph's Regional College offer students the same HSC pathway.

• Focus on academic HSC courses • Maximising students’ Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) in preparation for University; • Helping students achieve their personal best in HSC studies; • Study centre and tutorial support; • Highly qualified specialised teachers; • A choice of thirty seven HSC courses, including Extension 2 English and Mathematics, five Science subjects, nine HSIE options, Music 1 and 2, Visual Arts, Drama, French, Studies of Religion 1

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and 2 Unit, PDHPE, Family & Community ommunity Studies, Engineering Studies and six other (Technological and Applied Studies/TAS); • A senior campus (MacKillop) and a senior precinct (St Joseph’s Regional College); • First class facilities and resources for HSC study; • Outstanding records of HSC results. In 2011, there were 45 with ATARs over 90, 5 students among the State’s Best All Rounders, 54% of results were over 80%, and 181 results were over 90%.

2 . T E C H N I C A L PAT H W AY SAPSS provides senior students with another unique pathway at Newman Senior Technical College, in this nationally renowned state-of the-art College.

Some features of Newman Senior Technical College include: • 34 years at the forefront of Vocational

Education and Training in Australia; • Provision of over 17 VET courses with nationally recognised qualifications; • Highly experienced and qualified teachers with trade and industry credentials; • Outstanding success of graduates in gaining positive post-school outcomes; • Award winning training and facilities that are among the best in Australia; • A dynamic and expansive curriculum with the addition of Electrotechnology, Health Services and Beauty Therapy; • Widely endorsed quality. Five students in the National Worldskills Competition 2012; • Opportunity to complete a HSC while starting School based Apprenticeships and Traineeships.

“In 2011, there were 45 with ATARs over 90 and 5 students among the State’s Best All Rounders. ”

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NEWMAN College From NEWMAN to Jamie Oliver…

Peter Cutcliffe is living his dream. Pete is Sous Chef at Jamie Oliver’s Italian Restaurant in Pitt St, Sydney – an amazing achievement, to work for lifetime idol Jamie Oliver, at the age of 26.

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ete is from humble beginnings. He went to school and was raised in Port Macquarie and is a former hospitality student of Newman Senior Technical College (then St Joseph’s Vocational College).

His passion for cooking being evident from as early as 10 years old. “The first meal I ever cooked was a chicken dish when I was about 10.” Pete recalls how he and his father, Graham, regularly had cooking competitions, Masterchef style, in the family kitchen. Who cooks the better steak still provides some friendly competition on the rare trips home to see the family.

When Peter needed to choose a pathway for his senior secondary education, he was fortunate to be able to pursue his career in hospitality training at Newman Senior Technical College (then St Joseph’s Vocational College) as a Year 11 student in 2001. His commitment and diligence, displayed through the work placement program of the College, made him a perfect choice for a local employer as a first year apprentice. Starting at Hog’s Breath Café, from there he continued his apprenticeship training at Scampis Seafood Restaurant and Café Cedro.

After completion of his formal apprenticeship, Pete made the move to Sydney, chasing his dream of working in a ‘hatted’ restaurant.

Working through various places such as the five star Marriot Hotel, and Brown Sugar Restaurant in Bondi Beach, before realising his first dream by securing a Sous Chef position at the two hatted Restaurant Balzac.

After nearly a year of fine dining, Pete came to a fork in the road and while checking out possibilities on Seek, noticed the advertisement for a Sous Chef at Jamie Oliver’s Restaurant, soon to open in Sydney. “I couldn’t believe it – an opportunity to work for my career idol, Jamie Oliver. I woke up my wife Helen in the middle of the night (much to her disgust) to tell her about it. I phoned up the very next morning for more details and to apply.”

One day while looking at another opportunity in the Sydney CBD, Pete had a call on his phone; it was from Dave Clarke, Executive Chef of Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, wanting to meet Pete to discuss his application. “I couldn’t believe it; I was in the city in my board shorts, Dave wanted me to meet him for a chat, I explained I was in my casual clothes, he still wanted me to meet him, so I headed to the restaurant, and we sat and talked for an hour. After the usual interviews and trials came the long and nervous wait until the official job offer. “I was probably the happiest man in Sydney when the call finally came through that I had been

successful, and not only that, I was being sent to London for training and to meet Jamie Oliver and his mentor and business partner, Gennaro Contaldo. Another of my dreams fulfilled, travelling to the UK, and all expenses paid as well.”

Not long after, we started work on the research and development of ingredients and finding suppliers that we knew could provide us with the quality of produce that Jamie Oliver himself would be proud of. Added to the stress of opening a restaurant was the planning of our wedding in April: “Shortly after the honeymoon I was to desert my new wife, and I was on a plane to London. Training in the first ever Jamie’s Italian in Oxford, London and the busiest Jamie’s Italian in Covent Garden for 6 weeks. It was a gruelling experience, working up to 1516 hours a day.”

Peter’s commitment to his role at Jamie Oliver’s is inspiring. Working 17 hour days during the period of establishing Jamie Oliver’s Italian Restaurant in Sydney, alongside the newly formed Jamie Oliver’s Italian Sydney team.

As Sous Chef and second in charge of the restaurant, Peter’s day now consists of managing staff, including eight (8) apprentice chefs, staff rosters, wage costing, food costing, specials planning and liaising with Jamie’s

International Operations Chef for menu approvals. "We do up to 900 people a day, at an average of 4,000 people a week, in a 170180 seat restaurant. It still amazes me," Pete says.

Peter’s advice to students at Newman College with a similar dream to follow: “Work from the heart with passion”; “Peel onions, peel potatoes – everybody starts there”; “Stay with it – don’t give up”; “Learn in a busy restaurant – it helps you to cope with stress” and; “Make the best use of Newman College and its fantastic workplacement program.”

Key moments for Pete: “Being at the River Café in London when Jamie arrived and said to me, ‘Hello, big boy’, as well as when the rest of my team got to meet Jamie in Sydney at the official launch of the restaurant, with many of the team looking up to Jamie as much as I did.”

Newman College provided the launching pad and opened the door for Peter, and he looks forward to returning to his home town of Port Macquarie over the coming months and is keen to share some of his time and experiences with the students of Newman Senior Technical College – the place where it all started.

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Columba Cottage Director Michelle O'Brien

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Winner of the Early Childhood Director of the Year.

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ichelle, you are the director at Columba Cottage. How long have you been there, and what do you love about

your job?

I have been at Columba since it opened in Feb 2009, starting as an Educator in the room, then being promoted to role of Director in June 2010.

Like all early childhood educators, it’s the young energetic children who make our lives exciting and give us a purpose to wake up with passion for the day ahead. Of course, this is contagious and most times, exhausting.

Everything we plan is for a reason and is delivered with energy, passion and enthusiasm.

For myself and my team, no matter how tired we are at the end of the day, their hugs and love empower us to come back each day, energised and refreshed to do it all over again.

On a more personal note, as a Director I am proud of the opportunity I have been given to implement my vision and passion towards a centre of excellence for children/families and staff.

Columba Cottage has a very loyal and talented staff base, with 24 employees currently furthering their study in early childhood education. What is it that makes Columba Cottage what it is?

When employees are truly respected, appreciated and provided with great working conditions, you have outstanding individuals who surround themselves with outstanding team members. Therefore, our business has a very small turnover of staff, which leads to continuity of care. Our high functioning team members are empowered to aim for the highest qualifications possible and are supported to do this. When all stakeholders are consulted, there is a strong emphasis on collaborative processes and shared leadership.

This benefits the children and their families, as they are assured that Columba Cottage services provide the most up to date practices and truly ‘open up a world of opportunities’ for all children who attend our services. Our highly qualified educators mentor many TAFE/ uni students to see and learn about our ever evolving industry and provide hands on advice in regards to the new national curriculum framework and how we implement, plan and program for this.

You recently took out the award for Early Childhood Director of the Year at the Australian Family Education and Care Awards. Tell us about your experience and the criteria involved in winning this award?

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My nomination was provided by June (Educator and OSHC Co-ordinator) and was received with over 193 other Early Childhood Directors from around Australia. The judges perused all nomination submissions and from this process, selected the state finalists. Each state finalist then had to compose a submission to contribute their own perspective to the judges. After a lengthy deliberation, the state winners were announced. The prize for each state winner was a two-day, all expenses paid stay at the Shangri-la Hotel at the Rocks in Sydney. Included was a pamper hour at the spa, cocktail evening, training session and gala dinner night, and resources to the value of $450 for the centre and a personalised banner.

Before selecting the national winner, each finalist was interviewed on the first day by a panel of six judges, and the national winner was announced en made “Plans have be at the Gala Dinner the following ators to exchange educ night. , offering as a training tool Even though I missed out on experience opportunities to the national title, it was made childcare other high quality quite clear that becoming a ntaining services and mai state winner was a major prize ge in the a competitive ed in itself – one to be very proud industry.” of. This opportunity provided great recognition and appreciation for all of my dedication to the industry and most I am the proud of all, it has led to the development of some mother of two adorable great friendships with VIC and WA Directors, children, Samantha 16 and Thomas 13, who which will provide further opportunities for stated, "We are not missing out on a holiday networking together. of a lifetime”; so, with my very supportive A week after the awards, my assistant Director husband, Peter, it will be a family trip in early Lucy and I visited the VIC centre and worked 2013. collaboratively together, sharing our innovative North Coast Training awards were held in ideas and passion for the future. Plans have Coffs Harbour on Friday 15 June, where we been made to exchange educators as a training were again nominated and judged as a regional tool, offering opportunities to experience other finalist for the North Coast Small Employer of high quality childcare services and maintaining a the Year. competitive edge in the industry.

Can you tell us about all the areas of care There are two other awards that you have that are on offer at Columba Cottage and been involved with recently, Employee of how parents can enrol their children? the Year here in Port Macquarie, and the When I commenced my role of Director in North Coast Training awards held in Coffs 2010, the centre was licensed for a maximum Harbour ... of 79 places per day. Due to an overwhelming I was announced the judged category winner demand, we expanded our license to offer 90 of the Port Macquarie Employee of the Year places a day. We have successfully opened and 2012, being nominated by Lucy, my assistant are operating a Before/After School program director. I was required to face another panel and operate Vacation Care in the holidays for interview for this, showcasing my unique visions all children from schools in the Port Macquarie and goals for the future; unfortunately, I was area. We are proud to announce that we are the unable to attend, as Employee of the Year and only childcare centre in Port Macquarie currently National Director of the year coincided on the offering Saturday care for children aged 6 weeks same night. I was absolutely thrilled in receiving to 12 years. Saturdays are open to all children, the major prize of a trip for two to Hollywood even those who attend other centres during and $1,000 spending money.

the week. To enrol your child, please phone the centre to book a personalised guided tour, and if there is availability, you will be able to secure a place or complete a waiting list form. We offer as many ‘stay and play’ opportunities for children in the two weeks prior to starting free of charge, to familiarise the child and family with the centre and most importantly to develop a bond between educators and families.

We are currently in the process of completing a submission to further extend places available at our service and offer a preschool program between the hours of 9 - 3.

What does the future hold for Columba Cottage?

We are in the process of extending our available places, another possible 48 places a day at the centre, and are looking at offering many of these places as a 9am - 3pm session that can be subsidised by both CCB & CCR, if applicable to families. We understand that there are very different family needs in our community, and we are organising our business to cater for as many of these needs as possible. In the further future, we will be offering more and varied services in the local area. For any further information, visit our website at: www.ccelc.nsw.edu.au

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Creating exceptional results through people Not being able to source suitable staff and frustrated with the cost and time consumed by the process, Guy Coble turned to North Coast TAFE for a solution – and couldn’t be happier with the results.

As owner and manager of Leading Edge Computers, a successful IT business in Port Macquarie, he has discovered that sourcing North Coast TAFE students for traineeships has proved to be a quick and reliable way to access staff already gaining qualifications to industry standards.

He also managed to avoid the costs of advertising and was pleased with being able to focus on clients, rather than the negotiations demanded by a selection process.

“I was looking for a new technician to join our team that could work to a high standard,

and North Coast TAFE provided me with an impressive selection of students. Not only did we sign Angus on as trainee technician, but we also took on Sales Manager, Daniel, because of his technical knowledge, personal skills and ability to relay information to customers,“Guy said.

“We offered Daniel a full-time sales manager position, and he joined us with a Certificate IV in IT Support. This allows engineers and technicians to work on the larger projects, while Daniel can provide fast and knowledgeable service to our retail customers.“ “Angus is working brilliantly as our newest Technician and is currently studying a Diploma in IT (Networking), but has also completed a Certificate III in Information Technology, so he is really dedicated to his career – it’s not just a job for him.”

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World-class coaching for local businesses Port Macquarie-based professional coach Sue Montgomery has travelled thousands of kilometres training the master minds behind global success stories like Microsoft, Google and Coca-Cola.

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usiness leaders in our own backyard can now benefit from her expertise at a visionary Leadership Coaching Program starting in September.

Seventy per cent of Australia’s top 200 businesses use leadership coaching. What is it? Regardless of size or location, people are the most valuable asset of any business. Coaching gives managers the skills and processes to get the best out of employees, leading to improved productivity, retention, engagement and a more proactive culture.

How can you assist local businesses?

Coaching Professionals is offering a six-month program here in Port Macquarie. I deliver Coach Training Programs for Coaching Australia to blue-chip corporations like Range Rover, The Venetian Resort chain and IBM in Shanghai, Hong Kong and Macau. I am bringing my program to my local area.

Co-facilitator Peter Coe and I are both accredited with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), so we know how to help managers take a helicopter view of their business. It’s so easy to get caught up reacting to the day-to-day, rather than being brave enough to invest in leading people and moving

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from an operational to strategic approach.

Once they’ve adopted the coaching principles, people often say they achieve more in six months than they would in three years.

As well as working overseas, I have a loyal client base on the Mid North Coast, predominantly performing individual coaching programs for organisations aiming to improve communication, ineffective work habits and people management skills.

Please share some success stories? I’ve seen amazing results locally and in my work as a contractor with Coaching Australia. Duetsch Bank has been sending leaders through the program for four years and now use coaching as their default leadership style. Like many forward-thinking organisations, they capitalise on the fact that recognition and professional development is more important than a pay rise.

One of the greatest compliments was from an executive, who described the program as the best he had attended in nearly 30 years working in human resources. He said it changed the way he managed people and the way he communicated in both his professional and personal life.

The most significant indicator is the fact that

corporations are now investing in leadership coaching, rather than spending the same amount of money over a longer period on a range of different development areas.

What sets this program apart? The six-month program is very interactive and hands-on, with a focus on ongoing training, support and mentoring over six months to ensure coaching is fully integrated into participants’ management style.

As well as group workshops and coaching practice, managers benefit from one-on-one coaching sessions with Peter and myself, who are both highly-experienced coaches and trainers.

Coaching is universal; it doesn’t matter in what capacity you interact with people. It adds unlimited benefits to professional development and who you are as a leader.

How did you become a leadership coach?

dertook coaching myselff whil wh hile ille wo rki rk kin ing in ing I undertook while working nagement roles in the telecommunications management and banking sectors in Sydney. It had a great impact on all aspects of my life and after 25 years in a corporate environment, I knew this was what I wanted to do for other people.

I loved the fact that I had access to a professional who had no connection to my work. It gave me a safe forum to work on set goals. I then studied for and gained ICF accreditation as an Associate Certified Coach, along with having qualifications on Business Management. I have also had access to world leading Coaches as my mentors and teachers on the international level – something I feel very privileged to have access to and be part of.

Coaching Professionals offers a range of services, including in-house and individual coaching programs. Visit www. coachingprofessionals.com.au for further details.

Cain Pascoe Photography

“TAFE students present their upcycled , clothing designs based on their tough briefs.”

The upcycle of sustainable fashion shion Each year, huge amounts of clothes and shoes are thrown away, worldwide, with much ending up in landfill sites. Fortunately, Australia has a great track record of recycling clothing through donations to charity shops, passing on clothes for emergency use, or sending them overseas, where people cannot afford to buy clothes.

To address sustainability, the Diploma in Applied Fashion Design and Technology students at North Coast TAFE were given a brief to design and create a garment from sustainable resources and from fabrics with a minimum of 75% natural fibre.

With many new designers using waste materials and ‘upcycling’ them into new fashions and textiles, the teachers felt this was a valuable skill to add to their portfolio and allow students an advantage when looking for industry

employment.

‘Upcycling’ is a sustainable way of creating something useful out of something that would otherwise be thrown away, helps to preserve virgin resources, reduces waste and energy use and creates something that is of equal or greater value than the materials used to make it.

If you consider that it takes ten times more energy to make a tonne of textiles than it does a tonne of glass, recycling can save a lot of energy. Our clothes, when we throw them away, have at least 70% of their useful life left. It takes nylon fabric 30 - 40 years to biodegrade.

By comparison, a cotton cloth takes just 1 to 5 months.

We look forward to seeing how the next generation of local designers introduce innovative ways to save costs and resources in their designs.

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Hastings Morning Hastings Morning Talkers Toastmasters International Club aims to provide a friendly, supportive, fun, professional environment for members to grow and develop. Ivana Agapiou gives us an insight into how it works.

i Ivana. Could you please give us a bit of background information about yourself and where you work …

I’m the General Manager at Eather Recruitment and have been with Eather Recruitment since its inception in 2007.

EATHER Recruitment’s focus is sourcing the best permanent and temporary employees, within varying jobs across diverse industry sectors.

Not only do we provide quality staff, we also offer payroll, labour hire and compliance, plus outplacement services. An integral component of my role is to establish solid links with many businesses and to remain a consistent supporter of community organisations and local charities. I strongly believe that advanced communication and interpersonal skills are the most highly sought after traits in any employee.

My qualifications include a Grad Cert in Management, along with BA in Teaching and Vocational Education; however, even with my formal education, it’s imperative that my communications skills are always fine-tuned and that I regularly practice! I’m often called upon to present to corporates and to groups, and Toastmasters assists me in ensuring that I present in a professional and personable manner.

If you are required to formally present in your job, or even if you are asked to act as an MC or facilitate a meeting, then Toastmasters will be able to help you gain the necessary experience and skills.

How and why did you become involved with the Hastings Morning Talkers?

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International Club has been established for 6 months and is going strong. It was specifically set up to meet the needs of busy, business professionals: people who are keen on accelerating their careers; taking lead roles; people keen to develop their ability to present to diverse audiences in a confident and competent way. I became involved because I believe that Toastmasters is not only great for self-development, but also for career improvement. To be able to speak quickly on your feet and be articulate, to be able to present a structured and professional speech, and most importantly, to be able to provide others with helpful feedback and evaluations – these are highly valued skills!

There are many reasons to join Toastmasters … here are a just a few: become a better public speaker; overcome public speaking fears; ‘practice’ presentations for other audiences; gain the confidence and courage to lead.

What are the aims of the group?

The main aim of the group is to provide a friendly, fun, professional environment where people can come and learn without being judged or criticised. We are a non-for profit voluntary organisation. Learning is by doing, listening and practising, with gentle feedback in the form of evaluations; everyone can grow at their own pace.

When, where and how often does the group meet?

We meet at TG’s, Town Green Inn, Town Green every 2nd Tuesday at 6.45 for a 7am sharp start – all meetings are brisk and actionpacked and end right on time at 8.30am. Our next meeting is on 10 July – all guests are very welcome! Please contact – Peter Loveday on

Mob: 0417 289 115. Home: (02) 6584 3625.

What costs are involved for potential new members?

The joining fee is $50 and semi-annual dues are $60. This includes the Competent Communicator and Competent Leader manuals, as well as access via the World Wide Web to the vast mostly free educational resources of Toastmasters International.

What are some examples of topics that have been discussed at past meetings?

Members are given opportunities to prepare, rehearse, and deliver their presentations. Some are short 1 to 2 minute presentation such as Word of the day, Making a Toast, Welcoming Guests, Listening then Asking Questions, Grammarian, which includes counting the Ums and Ahs, which provide good opportunities for first timers to have a go.

Impromptu speaking – members practice speaking off the cuff” for one or two minutes by responding to general topics of interest.

Then we have prepared and rehearsed with specific objectives from the Competent Communicator Manual, such as, how to organise your speech, get to the point, how you say it, persuade with power, or inspire your audience.

Whenever you speak in Toastmasters, you receive helpful evaluations from your peers.

What types of people would benefit from joining the group brackets i.e. is there an age limit? Are there any restrictions on who can join?

Anyone over the age of 18 years can join Toastmasters, provided they have the desire to improve their communication and leadership skills. Most of us fear speaking in public; it can be nerve wracking. However, Toastmasters

provides a supportive and nurturing environment where people can practice and improve their speech delivery.

What better way to build confidence than among friends and people with similar fears and needs?

How have you personally benefited by being a member of the group?

I first joined Toastmasters early in my working life and discovered a unique nonpressured, supportive and helpful environment where I could make mistakes, learn through practice, have a laugh, and still feel inspired to continue. I can recommend Toastmasters to all!

What would you say to encourage those who may be a bit shy about public speaking to join?

Come along to one or two of our meetings, see what we do and how we do it, without any obligation − then make your own mind up, if it’s for you or not. It’s a good way to get a free cup of coffee, be inspired by a first timer or experienced speaker, while at the same time picking up some free tips for your next presentation or speech from one of our experienced evaluators.

Thanks Ivana.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

For more infomation about Hastings morning talkers?

Contact – Peter Loveday Mob: 0417 289 115 Home: (02) 6584 3625. www.hastingsmorningtalkers. toastmastersclubs.com

focusbusiness.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

focuseditorial Port Macquarie Landcare President sident

minding your

estellegough.

U P D AT E Do you have any New Year’s Resolutions for your our business for the new financial year?

At the Chamber’s boardroom lunch last month, h, NAB economist Rob Henderson was asked a question about the impact of the carbon tax on n the broader economy. ob answered that all the modelling by the bank’s economists had supported Treasury’s predictions which showed the likely general impact will be minimal. Apart from a more severe impact on a few high-polluting industries, Treasury has predicted that if businesses ‘played fair’ and only passed on cost increases directly attributable to the tax, it would impact inflation by around 0.7% in the first year, and would thereafter be absorbed into the overall CPI levels, which are predicted to be in line with their current levels.

So how do we make sure everyone plays fair, and what can businesses do to get their businesses carbon-ready?

Firstly, it’s important to understand that suppliers to your business are not allowed to mislead their customers when passing on the impact of the carbon tax. The ACCC has been given the job of ensuring only those increases that can be directly attributable to the carbon tax are passed on. This means there is plenty of incentive for business to ‘play fair’ and reduce the overall impact on inflation and the economy. This strategy relies on businesses and consumers ‘pushing back’ and refusing to accept unrealistically high increases in the costs of goods and services.

Secondly, and more importantly, carbon tax or no carbon tax, there is an enormous competitive advantage in being able to demonstrate to your customers that your business operates sustainably and actively works to reduce its environmental impact.

The catch-phrase in corporate boardrooms now is the Triple Bottom Line ... or Profit, People, Planet.

Profit, of course, goes without saying.

Businesses need to make a profit to survive and grow. What businesses also increasingly realised was that they were judged on how they treated their employees and their suppliers and customers. The culture of an organisation came under scrutiny.

Now a successful business needs to also account for its environmental footprint.

Many customers have become much more discerning when choosing which organisation to do business with and usually prefer to deal with an organisation that displays itself as a good corporate citizen ... not to mention the rapidly rising cost of electricity here in NSW. If the triple bottom line is where the big

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88 greater port macquarie focus.

The Master Weed Wackers Manual ... robert turner.

guys have gone, it seems to make good business sense for those of us running small and medium sized businesses to focus on this too. At the very least, we might reduce some costs and make our business more appealing to potential customers.

So what do we need to do? My research consistently throws up three strategies that I have developed into the Port Chamber Three Point Plan. Implementing the Three Point Plan is guaranteed to get you immediate results.

1. Measure what you are currently doing.

This is a great chance to look at those energy bills and see whether your usage has gone up or down over the last few years. When former Essential Energy CEO, Terri Benson, presented at a Chamber function several months ago, she said that overall electricity usage has been declining over the last couple of years. Has yours? It will also be important to know exactly how much your energy costs increase as a direct result of the carbon tax if you are planning to pass these costs on.

2. Make a concerted effort to reduce your energy usage and emissions. If you’re not sure where to begin, perhaps it’s worth looking into getting a professional energy audit. Turning off power points at night and replacing light bulbs with LEDs are obvious steps ... but for a comprehensive plan, the NSW government provides subsidised energy audits and facilitation to help NSW businesses identify and implement energy savings. Go to their website for details: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus/ energyauditing.htm 3. Let everyone know what you’re up to! Keep proof of all your energy saving efforts and share this good news with your customers in a way that is meaningful to them. Enter the Chamber’s Business Awards in the Environmentally Sustainable category.

Even if you don’t win, it’s a great way to tell people you are trying. It may also be very useful when competing on tenders and major projects. Even retail businesses can show they are environmentally aware. The simple step of having green recycling shopping bags at the point of sale says to your customers that you are taking some steps to reduce your environmental impact.

So if you’re looking for a resolution for the new financial year, why not start with the Chamber Three Point Plan. And don’t forget to let us know how you go with it!

When you look at the greenery outside your window, what do you see? Maybe some of the 100 household plants outed as weeds in a new book from Port Macquarie Landcare Group! he Master Weed Wackers Manual There are photos of any native plants that is a lavishly illustrated book telling could be confused with them. all you need to know about weedy The Master Weed Wackers Manual was put ‘ornamental’ plants of the Mid together by Landcare’s Estelle Gough with North Coast. photographer Rex Moir, and Peter Michael These plants lead a double life. When they from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. They sneak out of the garden and into our precious included some material from Byron Shire local bushland reserves, they start to run Council and other websites. amok.

The manual is a great community resource, They’re familiar ones like agapanthus, and other leading environmental groups are Japanese honeysuckle, asparagus already using it. fern, night scented jasmine, South West Rocks Dunecare is and duranta. incorporating the manual in its Did you realise new 10 year weed control Every day we see the effects of that the last two are plan for 1000 ha of Crown .A weed invasionac poisonous? Other Land and National Park. a h koala cannot reuse of garden plants that This plan will cover 15 km ca food tree be lantana le can kill you are glory of the coast, including ab tr impene r as lily, cotoneaster, and the northern area of Hat ... birds disappea up weeds swallow climbing nightshade – Head National Park, at the t. ta bi their ha and they are bushland request of NPWS. invaders as well!

As the war on weeds Landcare’s new manual was continues, you may be wondering, created to guide our volunteers in “When does a plant become a weed?” repairing the damage such weeds do when One definition is: “When it is unwanted”. they escape into bushland.

Yet most weedy species were wanted, in Every day we see the effects of weed the past, by plant collectors who brought invasion. A koala cannot reach a food tree them here from places like South America because of impenetrable lantana ... birds and Africa, with similar climates and soils. disappear as weeds swallow up their habitat We now know it was a mistake to allow … a tree begins to die, smothered by madiera them into Australia, partly because they cost vine … the diversity of flora and fauna is lost. us millions of dollars each year.

But don’t despair; we are here to help you We must pay those millions, because turn this around, by stopping those weeds at weeds sabotage the native ecosystems that the source. You too can identify the good, the we depend on. These ecosystems stabilise the bad, and the ugly. climate and provide clean water and air, plus You can borrow The Master Weed Wackers habitat for pollinators that make our crops Manual from our local library, or view it on and trees productive.

Landcare’s website at www.landcareportmac.

That’s why Landcare’s ultimate goal is com.au/ ecosystem restoration – and why we made With excellent pictures, it tells you how The Master Weed Wackers Manual. to identify and manage each weedy species.

Contributed by Janet Slater and Julie Ho.

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focusrealestate

Rock the

Boat nicole langdon.

Do economic development and tourism belong together? Could the marriage of the once-separate entities be the key to prosperity for the region? Or should they remain a house divided? Nicole Langdon shares her view ...

business owner pointed out, Council deserves credit for opening the door to community consultation – and potentially putting its head on the chopping block.

Tough decisions need to be made. Do economic development and tourism belong together? And, is the current economic development model – with Council taking full

he recent shift to draw economic development and tourism under one banner has sparked lively debate between Council and the business community. Council’s General Manager, Tony Hayward, says the two go “hand-in-glove”. Business leaders argue the local economy can’t rely so heavily on tourism.

Perhaps a Council-sponsored independent review will find some middle-ground, or tip the balance one way or the other.

Some describe the review, which is currently underway, as a watershed opportunity. Others are convinced Council has already determined a blueprint for the future. Whatever side of the fence you sit, the highly-anticipated Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plan is sure to be a page-turner.

The aim is to better understand where we are and where we’re going. Does the Greater Port Macquarie region have an identity crisis? If so, what tourists, events and industries do we really want to attract?

The facts can’t be disputed. Tourism has long been our trump card, funnelling $430 million* into the local economy per annum. There’s no doubt we live in paradise, and the 1.4 million people who visit each year can attest to it.

But, do we have a clear and united sense of who we are? In days gone by, young families came in droves, flocking to attractions such as Fantasy Glades, Peppermint Park, Kingfisher Park, King Neptune Park and Timbertown.

While the region has a proud colonial heritage and unrivalled natural beauty, it can’t sell itself. What else do we have up our sleeves?

Judging by responses to FOCUS’ Put Port Macquarie on the world map campaign, there’s abundant potential just waiting to be tapped into. From building something big, an aquatic complex and quirky street art to attraction super-passes, a purpose-built university campus and a technology park, the wishlist was anything but unimaginative.

As a true local, who has lived on both ‘sides’ of the highway for nearly 40 years, the review is a bold move I wholeheartedly support. As one

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responsibility – delivering the best value for ratepayers?

Business leaders contend they don’t currently have a loud enough voice and we can’t afford to rely so heavily on tourism, or allow it to overtake economic development.

It’s a valid point. Not only is the Greater Port Macquarie region a perfect place to holiday, it’s also ideal to work, live and invest in. What we need is a diverse, sustainable, growing economy, with a skilled workforce, strong investment and infrastructure to support it.

When you put national economic development models under the microscope, there are pros and cons for all three potential options: an internal model (current); a Council/ community partnership model (adopted by cities like Ashfield and Bassendean in WA) or; a third party outsourced model (in the Blue Mountains, Whitsundays and Townsville)**.

Studying alternate models and benchmarking against others may well be factors of the review, but we need to tread cautiously. We can’t take the leap from third to number one tourist destination in NSW without overcoming obvious barriers like infrastructure, planning

Ask Greg

Greg Trembath answers wers stions. your real estate questions.

There has been a lot reported in the media lately about interest rates and the housing market.

What does that mean for us here in Port Macquarie?

Q

h i State S B d hi h included i l d hand down their Budget, which a first home owners grant, stamp duty exemptions and new home grants to take effect from October 1 (see www.gregtrembath. com.au/blog for details).

A: The outlook for housing prices in Australia, including our area, has been fairly gloomy.

However, with downward movement in interest rates in recent months, industry experts have reported some positive trends in the property market.

While these ‘goodies’ only directly benefit a portion of the market, the incentives combined with lower interest rates are likely to have a positive effect on buyer numbers, which is good for everyone.

The data for June showed that while overall confidence remained quite weak, the lower interest rate environment is having a positive impact on the property market. Each quarter the consumer sentiment survey includes questions about the wisest place to save.

the global economic uncertainty continues to have an effect on us all.

Most industry commentators can The Westpac – Melbourne see the housing market making ... lower interest rates Institute Survey of Consumer a comeback in terms of an are likely to Sentiment reports on increase in transaction activity have positive r consumer evaluations of their and a gradual improvement ye bu effect on ... rs household financial situation. be in values in some markets; m nu Consumers are also surveyed however, they don’t predict a about their views on buying return to robust growth in home conditions for cars and dwellings, the values any time soon. wisest place for savings, and economic news So there are some positive signs for the market recall. in Port Macquarie, tempered by the fact that

According to RP Data, 25% of the June survey respondents felt that real estate was the wisest place, up from 18.6% of respondents in March.

During June we also saw the NSW Government

Answers are general comment, and readers should always seek their own independent professional advice.

Send your real estate questions to greg@gregtrembath.com.au Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at Greg Trembath Real Estate.

Licensed Real Estate Agent – Licensed Auctioneer.

and access (such as an effective airport hub).

It’s time for the community to ‘come out of it’s shell’ and have a say in our future.

As a voice of reason from a Chamber of Commerce meeting in May said: “We all need to contribute in a positive, constructive and long-term manner. You can either stand up and take responsibility, or sit back and whinge”. I couldn’t have put it better myself.

If we start with a blank canvas, be forward thinking and can harness the community’s energy and local pride, the number one status is ours. NOTE – the review is currently underway and draft recommendations are due in early August. * Tourism Research Australia, September 2011** Cassowary Coast Regional Council, October 2009. greater port macquarie focus 89

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

CDC Property Projects.

90 greater port macquarie focus.

July FOCUS Home of the Month is another quality home built by CDC Property Projects Pty Ltd. Chrissy Jones had the privilege of being shown through this stunning home, that takes full advantage of its views over the Emerald Downs Golf Course.

rom first look, it is evident the executive residence ticks all the boxes; being designed by Collins W Collins and then built expertly to the owner’s specifications, the home takes full advantage of its peaceful location, capturing picturesque views of the nearby golf course from every possible vantage point.

The varied roof lines not only provide a striking exterior, but also allow for natural cooling in summer and warmth in winter, making for a very comfortable home all year round.

An impressive exterior texture coated brick facade, complemented by recycled timber beams and tiled feature walls, greets you via the exposed aggregate driveway at the bottom of the quiet cul-de-sac. The drive leads to a roomy triple garage, fitted with two automatic panel lift doors and convenient internal access to the home for the owners. Entry to the home is via an extra wide hardwood timber and glass panelled door into the generous hallway, that leads you through the entire ground level.

To the immediate right of entry is the carpeted guest bedroom, fitted out expertly with its own walk-in his and hers robe, well appointed en-suite encompassing glasswalled shower, vanity boasting a large mirror above and oval hand basin – the guest bedroom could easily double as the main bedroom on the ground floor in future years.

Moving along the hallway, you will find the laundry, again very well fitted out with loads of cabinetry, recesses for the ironing board, expertly tiled floor and a wide sliding glass door enabling ease of access to the side yard.

A sound proofed media room has been installed, which will provide many comfy movie nights and afternoon matinees for the family. Clearly a home set for entertaining, the media room is complemented by the combined kitchen, dining and formal lounge. An extra large island bench divides the kitchen from the dining and formal lounge and comes complete with a Bosch dishwasher, double stainless steel sink with flick mixer and plenty of drawers and cupboards. The island doubles as a breakfast bar or servery and is a great preparation area.

Caesar stone benchtops, a Fisher & Paykel gas cook-top, Asko under mounted ducted range-hood, Smeg electric oven and soft close drawers are installed in the cabinetry, both overhead and under bench. The walk-in pantry is a generous inclusion, with floor to ceiling shelving and drawers keeping all the family’s cooking needs organised, neat and tidy. Clever sensor lighting has been installed in the pantry that turns on when entering and off when exiting;

focusabode.

create • design • construct

the sensor lights are also in the WCs, walk-in robes and the linen presses throughout the home – a great energy saving idea.

The open plan kitchen, dining and formal lounge area opens out through double glass sliding doors into the invisi-gard stainless steel security screened alfresco BBQ room. Finished off superbly, this is a fantastic addition to the home and will provide a space for many, many years of relaxing and entertaining family and friends overlooking the 5th fairway of Emerald Downs Golf Course.

An island bench houses an Electrolux Integrated BBQ, cupboards and drawers and even a built-in garbage depository. The stainless

steel Schweigen Professional Series range hood above the BBQ provides an element of safety in the enclosed space, but also looks fantastic. A further outdoor kitchen bench houses the wine fridge on one side and a beer fridge on the other side of a stainless steel sink.

Conveniently located adjacent is the Lshaped pool, also masterfully built by CDC Property Projects and fenced with a glass and aluminium balustrade. An in-ground trampoline and swing set completes the grassed backyard that conceals the underground rainwater tank.

In the centre of home is a Blackbutt timber tread staircase, with trendy LED lighting on

ess “ The stainlge steel Schwei Senries Professional ove range hood abides the BBQ prov safety an element ofed in the enclosso looks space, but al fantastic.”

every 3rd tread and glass balustrade handrail, leading to the 2nd level of the home. At the top of the stairs you will find a rumpus room with its own balcony, 3 children’s bedrooms all with built-ins, ceiling fans and soft down-lighting. These rooms are all serviced by a large bathroom that has its very own kiddy hand-basin, nice deep bath, bench to ceiling vanity mirrors and recess shelves in the glass walled shower at both high and low levels, to accommodate the younger members of the family.

The master bedroom finishes off the floor

plan of the 2nd level very nicely. A large walk-in his and hers robe, en-suite with twin bowl hand basins on the vanity, LED lighting under the mirror sill and in the recess of the glass walled shower plus a private balcony, all add to a very comfortable parents’ retreat.

CDC Property Projects Pty Ltd is the builder who can do it all! From concept, design and construct to all the finishing touches including the pool and surrounds – give CDC a call today to help you build your dream lifestyle. continued over

greater port macquarie focus 91

From the Builder – Craig Maltman Tell us about your business. How long have you been operating?

CDC Property Projects specialise in delivering high quality custom designed homes that echo the personality and lifestyle of the owner.

Company Director Craig Maltman has been building homes for over 20 years and commenced CDC Property Projects together with business partner Craig Watson in 2010.

We recognised the Mid North Coast was well serviced by quality project home builders, but there was little choice for those clients seeking that extra quality and finesse only available through a specialised custom builder.

CDC was created specifically to fill this niche.

What are the types of building that you specialise in?

CDC specialise in delivering one-off custom designed residential homes.

An award winning member of the HIA, we are focused on creating a home tailored to our client’s lifestyle, by assisting them through the entire design, planning and construction

92 greater port macquarie focus.

process.

As an Accredited Greensmart Builder, we build homes that are healthy to live in and healthy for the environment. Ironically, this results in homes that are cost effective, given today’s high energy prices.

If potential owners have specific requirements, do you accommodate and are your designs flexible?

Our entire process is focused on owners with specific requirements.

We are not a project home builder with a library of ‘pre-packaged’ designs. Rather, we follow a disciplined and structured process to analyse the client’s lifestyle, budget and project objectives, then we set about developing the project specifically to meet that brief.

How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process?

Quite simple – just talk to us ... call Craig on 0412 625 891.

Our structured four step process is the result of 20 years’ experience and ensures a tailored

outcome that delivers the client’s brief.

We like to meet potential clients informally, so we can get to know each other before we agree to work together. To deliver an award winning result, it’s critical that client and builder are the right fit for each other. If we’re not confident that’s the case, or if we feel a particular project does not match our areas of expertise, we will happily refer prospective clients to other builders.

While CDC has no desire to be ‘cheap’, we are committed to delivering exceptionally good value. That means we are highly cost conscious and focused on delivering the highest quality outcome at the lowest possible price.

This core philosophy of delivering value is captured in the very essence of our project process. We recognise that once construction starts, very little can be done to influence the final cost of the project, so we work closely with clients during design and planning to provide a realistic and thorough estimate of total costs.

Our focus on continual improvement is also the key to our success. Simply being the best isn’t good enough, when getting better is still possible. We are always asking clients how we can improve further; to explore your dream home, call Craig on 0412 625 891.

Thanks Craig.

From the Designers Collins W Collins What are some of the featured design elements of this home?

The open plan living areas that connect seamlessly to the screened alfresco area, which overlooks the pool and backyard and enjoys uninterrupted views of the 5th Fairway. The design of internal and external living areas makes entertaining fun and easy!

Another feature is the small northern courtyard adjacent to the stairs. The courtyard brings natural light into the centre of the home, adding to the spacious feel of the home.

Did the owners have specific requirements

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create • design • construct

when they first consulted with you?

The owners were specific in some areas, and we incorporated those ‘wish list items’, such as extra garage space, lots of storage, and media room, to create a functional layout that suits their family and entertaining lifestyle.

Views of the fairway have been maximised, with the ground floor living and entertaining areas enjoying uninterrupted views. The screened alfresco is not just a fabulous entertaining area; it also protects the internal living areas from the afternoon sun.

Tells us about your business. What do you offer, and how can we contact you for more info?

Company Directors (and brothers), Derek and James, established Collins W Collins in 2003. Passionate about design and focussed on delivering a comprehensive tailored service to their clients, they saw an opportunity to create a One Stop Shop for people looking to design and build their own home, renovate their existing home or develop their property.

Our comprehensive range of services covers all stages from concept design to Council to construction.

Designing and building your own home can be an affordable option and gives you the freedom to explore options and ideas to create a home that meets your lifestyle.

Give us a call on 6583 4411 to speak with our designers and start the adventure rolling on designing your next home!

From the Owners You chose CDC Property Projects as the builder of your new home. How has it been working with Craig and his team?

The reason we chose Craig was because we knew he would be involved personally in the project from start to end and that we could call on him at anytime. We did this with great success, and nothing was ever a problem.

Would you recommend CDC Property Projects to other prospective home builders/renovators?

Absolutely – no hesitation whatsoever.

What are some of the featured design

elements of your new home that you love?

The Entertaining area has been a dream of mine for many years. I love a good BBQ, and we have plenty of room now to do it in. The stairs are also a favourite; knowing Craig built them from scratch makes it even more unique.

Did you have any specific requirements when you first decided to build?

Yes, we planned 90% of the house ourselves from the onset. The building knowledge is what we lacked, and that was where Craig and the team of designers at Collins W Collins came in.

Tell us about the design of your new home and its functionality. How does it suit your lifestyle?

With a young family, it makes life easier having the upstairs downstairs design whereby one area can be closed off. Also, the yard is just big enough for kids to be entertained. We live 90% in the kitchen/ lounge, so having all we need in that space really helps with the functionality of the house.

CDC Property Projects.

the plug!

For more information, contact CDC Developments on 0412 625 891 or email info@cdcpropertyprojects.com.au or visit the website at www.cdcpropertyprojects.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 93

CDC Property Projects.

continued from over

A Better Way of Life

From Concept Design Kitchens Concept Design Kitchens are proud to have designed, manufactured and installed joinery for this landmark home.

Steve Friend (Director of Concept Design Kitchens) worked closely with the home owners and builder, to customise joinery for the kitchen, walk-in pantry and alfresco BBQ areas, to suit the client’s needs and the modern style of their home.

A huge walk-in pantry, incorporating a benchtop and additional storage units, a fullheight wine rack and the abundance of large drawers (with soft-closing runners that won’t slam), ensures there is no shortage of storage space.

30 mm thick Quantum Quartz was selected for the benchtops, as it is durable yet easy to live with.

Benchtop heights, customised to suit the clients, were the final ingredient used to create

joinery that works as well as it looks.

Concept Design Kitchens’ Lake Road showroom has been open since 2007; however, our factory has been manufacturing kitchens and the highest quality 2-pak painted doors, for the local area and beyond, for over 15 years.

We recognise that everyone is unique, that everyone uses their kitchen in a different way – that’s why we custom design each kitchen to work for our individual clients, to suit their way of cooking, their budget, their preferred aesthetics and ultimately, their lifestyle.

Concept Design Kitchens’ showroom at 3/175 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. Phone: 6581 3544.

Concept Design Kitchens – creating stunning functional designs which stand the test of time.

As we age gracefully, we’ll generally know when the time is right. Perhaps it will be when we’re pulling the mower out of the shed and wondering how the grass could grow so quickly. Possibly, when the fascia needs painting and the old ladder looks daunting, or even as an aching back suggests that the weeds might live in the garden, for just one more week. Sooner or later, the thought crosses our minds: “There has to be a better way of life”.

centre, gymnasium, barbecue area and bocce court, and the ‘better way of life’ becomes more obvious.

In Port Macquarie, that ‘better way’ could be one of the brand new three bedroom villas, set in magnificent surroundings, at Sienna Grange. Built expressly for the over 55s, these beautiful homes offer single-level living, in grand style. The designers didn’t skimp on space or quality either; every home has its own private courtyard garden (ideal for small pets) attached garage, solar hot water system plus individual rainwater tank, while emergency call buttons provide comforting security. Add to these features, a sociable on-site community

The homes at Sienna Grange are being marketed by McGrath Port Macquarie – a business recognised for its integrity and legendary six-star service. Nothing is too much trouble for the friendly team at McGrath.

Working closely with professional organisers, they can really take the stress out of their clients’ transitions, from securing swift sales and premium prices for existing homes, to most of their arrangements for packing, moving and settling into a ‘better way of life’.

At Sienna Grange, life can be embraced, without the woes of never-ending maintenance, in a quiet yet convenient location, minutes from shops, medical services, beaches or CBD – still with enough space to accommodate visiting family and friends, but also with enough time to enjoy new friendships with like-minded neighbours.

(Copywriting by Roger Bates.)

THE MCGRATH DIFFERENCE Exclusive marketing with genuine six-star service McGrath’s unique marketing tools are the result of extensive research and objective vision. Unparalleled in the industry, these strategies include a networked operating structure which provides its massive pooled database of qualiÀed buyers, the Ànest media facilities in the business, a highly skilled and professional team, plus Australia’s most popular franchise property website; mcgrath.com.au. Just some of the many reasons why McGrath achieves better results, sooner.

But real estate is also about people and, out of respect for its valuable clients, McGrath is recognised for legendary six-star service.

Determined to provide a stress-free and seamless selling or buying experience, the friendly team at McGrath will always go the extra mile, assisting with open-home preparations, professional advice and paperwork, even arranging discounted packing and relocation services, where required.

It costs no more to receive a premium service, so why not call McGrath today?

McGrath Estate Agents 147 Gordon Street Port Macquarie T 6589 3777

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greater port macquarie focus.

mcgrath.com.au

AWARDED

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2009/10 /11

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Wauchope Real Estate

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD Off The Plan

D L O S $397,500

$370,000

Designed For Family Life

$269,000

2065 Pappinbarra Road, Wauchope

• Large 1152m2, elevated position • 4 bed, ensuite and WIR in main bed • Open plan kitchen, living & dining • A/C, outside alfresco area • Double garage, separate media room

•2 2.7 7 Ha (6 (6.5 5 ac ac)) • 3 bedroom Sandstone style • Main bed with own cosy Àreplace • 5 sets of French doors • With opportunity to make it your own

Acres On the Hastings River

SOLD 1 Hartys Plains Road, Brombin

14 Millers Place, Wauchope

$465,000

$439,000

“Rosebank”

Lot 3 Bindi Close, Wauchope

SOLD

13 Millers Place, Wauchope • 603m2 block block, easy care garden • Open plan kitchen, living & dining • 4 bed, main ensuite & WIR • QLD room, ducted aircon, ceiling fans • Double garage, single colorbond shed

D L O S

This Is Home

SOLD

• 4 bed bed, main with ensuite and WIR • 3 seperate living areas • Modern design, A/C • Undercover BBQ area • Double garage with auto door

• 18 18.04 04 Ha property • 4 bed, main ensuite, WIR • Double garage, separate farm shed • Separate dining area • Brick home elevated with good views

Would you like to see your property here?

River Oaks Homestead

D L O S

D L O S 20 River Oaks Road, Beechwoood

We require new listings

$880,000

$860,000

29 Secombe Lane, Redbank •4H Ha property, t 5 mins i to t town t • 4 bed ensuite, dressing room • A/C and wood Àre in living/dining • A fully self contained granny Áat • Large shed, inground pool

• Heritage style home built in 1881 • 3 sets of French doors & high ceilings • Family room, wood heater & sunroom • Level block, 6 bay shed with workshop • Hastings River at the end of the street

Add Your Own Sense of Style

D L O S

36 Colonial Circuit, Wauchope • 610 610m2 Áatt bl block k • 3 bedrooms, ensuite to main • Formal lounge • Open plan kitchen, living & dining • Double side access

• 920m2 level block with rural outlook • 3 bedrooms, freshly painted throughout • Wooden Áoorboards, wood heater • Access through carport to backyard • Walk to school and Beechwood café

56 Randall Street, Wauchope

$399,000

Easy Care Living

SOLD

682 Beechwood Road, Beechwood

$269,000

$245,000

9 Campbell Street, Wauchope • 613m2, 3 bedrooms • Modern kitchen & bathroom • Open plan living/dining, A/C • Double colorbond shed • Walking distance to town

Original Gem

Rural Outlook

$620,000

Calling All Investors

The Residential & Rural Specialists

•1 1.47 47 Ha federation style home • 4 spacious bedrooms, ensuite to main • Large family room & formal dining • Direct hastings river frontage • Self contained loft apartment

Phone 6586 4888

40 High Street Wauchope www.wauchoperealestate.com.au 96 greater port macquarie focus.

Julie Slater 0429 901 655

Troy McKinnon 0407 002 317

Lisa Wannell 0409 125 664

focusinterview.

“ My role canesbe varied. At timg I can be actind for ‘mum an ers, dad’ subdividt or as a projecon co-ordinator ial large residentts. developmen ”

Milestones & New Directions.

Darren Booth

Joins the Directors of the Hopkins Consultants team.

Hopkins Consultants e would like to share with our many clients and friends a couple of milestones for 2012.

Welcoming Darren Booth to our management team Many of you know Darren through your association with our firm over the last 8 years. We are pleased to announce Darren became a director and shareholder in Hopkins Consultants in July 2012. His highly regarded skill set complements and gives added value to the existing management structure.

Celebrating 20 years of successful trading February 2012 saw the 20th anniversary of Hopkins Consultants. This achievement was only possible because of the loyalty of our clients, resulting from the professional standard and work ethics of our personnel.

History Hopkins Consultants was founded by the late Syd Hopkins in 1992. Syd’s reputation and experience was the foundation on which the company has evolved. His vision was to provide the Hastings area and beyond with a team of professionals who can deliver

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all aspects of land development. Hopkins Consultants has played a significant role in the development of the Hastings, providing Surveying, Civil Engineering, Town Planning and Development Management services.

Some of our projects include: • Sovereign Hills • Settlement Shores Canal Development • Residential Subdivisions: Braeroy, Timbertown, Banksia Grove, King Fisher Park, Kings Grange • St. Columba and St Agnes Parish Schools and Aged Care Vision The continued success of the business can be attributed to the business acumen of the directors, recognising the need to adapt to the changing economic environment and meeting the ever changing needs of our clients. The professional services offered by the company are more diverse than ever before. We have recently expanded our services to include infrastructure and mining projects. This enables us to export our technical capabilities outside the Hastings area. To achieve this, we utilise the latest technology and rely on our professional and technical staff to respond to client needs.

ell us about yourself and your background?

I am born, bred and schooled in Port Macquarie. After completing my HSC, I went straight to Newcastle University to complete a Bachelor of Surveying, before moving to the Central West of NSW to work with a Land, Engineering and Mine Surveying consultancy for just on 10 years. In 2004, I had the opportunity to take up a position with Hopkins Consultants, return home with my wife and young family, and then complete the process required to become a Registered Land Surveyor.

What is a Registered Surveyor?

Only a Registered Surveyor can certify a measurement – whether a physical distance or the spatial relationship of objects within the environment. Registration enables the Surveyor to complete matters relating to land and land titles and to undertake and certify some civil engineering designs.

What role do you play within Hopkins Consultants?

My role can be varied. At times I can be acting for ‘mum and dad’ subdividers, or as a project co-ordinator on large residential developments.

The work is not limited to land development – for example, I have recently completed the co-ordination of a digital aerial mapping project over many square kilometres and land status

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reports for some of the titles held by a client who owns over 18 million acres across Australia.

We hear you are active within the Surveying Profession and have received some professional awards?

I assist with the co-ordination of some state based professional training workshops for surveyors working towards their registration, and on occasions, speak at industry seminars and conferences. I have been lucky enough to be the recipient of several state professional awards relating to land and titling matters, and in 2011 had the unexpected honour of being named NSW Professional Surveyor of the Year.

The award was presented by the NSW Surveyor General at an event attend by over 450 of the state’s professional surveyors.

Following from that, I was named a finalist in the individual categories of the 2011 Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards.

What role might you now play as a Director of the company?

We have an experienced team of professionals and support staff working well under the current management model. I’m confident my management style and ideas will blend and complement the successful management team. My role will enable me to explore the opportunities to expand the business into some of the varied markets and sectors within the surveying and engineering professions.

greater port macquarie focus 97

Grand and Green GRAND AND GREEN GRANNY FLATS. Do you need some extra space? Have ageing parents? Have adult children saving for their first home? Or would you like some extra income? Why not build a granny flat or secondary dwelling on your existing block?

Awesome Window Tint You can’t afford NOT to have a free measure & quote.

Are you aware there are more colours than the black look?

Today’s tint colours can range from almost clear for UV protection and low heat reduction, bronze, light grey, darker grey, to charcoal and more; all are energy efficient in differing degrees.

Lifetime warranty on residential and 12 years’ warranty on commercials. Cleaning window tint is a breeze – just use a soft damp cloth.

We will recommend the best film for your aspect and show you samples, and now you can get an AWESOME window tint deal on your motor vehicle also.

Gift certificates are available all year round.

Call Pauline or Scott today: 0401 396 762 – 0410 039 471.

98 greater port macquarie focus.

Granny flats are perfect for a teenage retreat, home office, guest house, home for your Gen Y children or your elderly parents to downsize and be close to family, without losing their independence.

Granny flats can also be an effective way to bring more income into the home. By adding a granny flat to your existing home which then could be rented out, you could shave years off your mortgage. Not only that, but when it does come time to sell, savvy investors will be lining up to purchase a site with two rental incomes.

Thanks to recent NSW Legislation, building a granny flat is now easier than ever before. If your property qualifies for complying development, approval can be gained in as little as 10 days.

For more information about a new home or granny flat, have a look at our website. There is a link to Living Green’s website, where you can view a great range of plans and ideas, or phone Peter and Kim Ruming at Little Beach Building Co.

FRANCIS

FOR SALE - NOW BEING RELEASED

The Energy Guys

The Chimneys The Chimneys is a 58 allotment village demonstrating social, economic and environmental sustainability. We speak with Bruce Mitchell of Mitchell Builders about the development and ‘going green’.

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hat size is the village, and where is it located?

The total site area is approximately 14 ha, or 35 acres. There are 58 Lots for dwellings, areas of native bushland and riverfront open woodland set aside as Environment Protection Zones, a Heritage Protection Zone containing two historic chimneys, a large area set aside for community productive gardens and orchards, walking and bicycle paths, and community parkland and a small lake with the Community Centre, lap pool and tennis court.

The Chimneys site is 23 km south from Port Macquarie on the New South Wales Mid North Coast, on the banks of the beautiful Camden Haven River – an area reputed to enjoy the best year-round climate in Australia.

The Village is 10 minutes’ drive from several pristine surfing beaches at North Haven, Bonny Hills and Lake Cathie, as well as the waterways of Queens Lake, Watson Taylors Lake and the Camden Haven Inlet. National Parks and State Forests are close by. The Camden Haven Golf Club and bowling greens are just 200m away.

What are the objectives of 'The Chimneys' project?

To show by example that a sustainable subdivision can be practical, profitable, financially viable, and quick to build, when compared with

a conventional unsustainable subdivision. Also to demonstrate that a sustainable subdivision can meet all the requirements of residents, be independent of Council’s water and sewerage and road systems, recycle all water for re-use within the development, generate most of its own energy, and contribute to some of its own food needs. One has to say it is the new era of lifestyle.

What savings are likely for residents in the Village?

There will be no Council charges for water or sewerage services, and charges for Council garbage services will be reduced depending on final village recycling policy. Facilities such as lap pool, tennis court, community centre and small craft access to the river will be free of charge to residents. Energy costs will be minimised by generation of ‘green’ energy by dwellings, energy efficient dwelling design, and use of energy efficient appliances. Produce grown on site in the community productive garden will be either free to residents, or available at minimal cost. Depending on individual choices made by residents, including use of the car share, savings could be cheaper than the normal levy charges.

To find out more about 'The Chimneys' and Mitchell Builders, visit www.thechimneys.com.au or phone Bruce on 0403 230 999.

Everyone knows that energy costs are not going down, but how do we get accurate information on how to reduce our overall consumption?

The Energy Guys have the necessary expertise to give you that advice and are accredited by the NSW government to provide you with your business energy snapshot and an action plan, which, if implemented, opens the doors to potential government co-funding.

Energy costs form an increasing part of the overheads of every business, and it makes sense to do whatever is necessary to bring that cost down. Often though, the measures taken to reduce those costs also entail spending money. Both State and Federal Governments are encouraging businesses to implement measures designed to make them more energy efficient and incentives are available.

But how do YOU, the business owner, know what action to take that will not end up just costing more money, without achieving any reduction in those

electricity bills?

The Energy Guys will go through all aspects of your business, meter your electricity usage, analyse your electricity accounts, review the layout and fit-out of your business premises, and identify opportunities for you to reduce your electricity bills. When the action plan is implemented The Energy Guys will help you access government subsidies. The Energy Efficiency for Small Business program is currently available until Dec ’12 to smaller businesses (less than 10 full-time employees) and provides funding of up to $5,000 for the purchase of energy saving equipment, tailor made for your circumstances. Subsidised energy audits are also available under different programs for larger businesses, identifying real energy costs of your electrical equipment and assisting in sourcing funding to make changes.

Information is powerful – so don’t waste any time. Ring The Energy Guys on 6581 4906 to discuss your business’ energy audit requirements.

greater port macquarie focus 99

‘ T H E

S H O P

F I T T I N G

S P E C I A L I S T S ’

focus_feature.

before

Sundial Dental renovation

BDM Constructions, ‘The shop fitting specialists’, is a statement based on what this company can do.

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his element of the business has grown substantially over the past 12 months, completing a diverse range of projects, including healthcare facilities, bank refurbishments and now branching into the hospitality industry.

Managing Director Brad Maggs commented that BDM Constructions are receiving recognition from a broad range of clients, from local business identities through to large organisations such as Lend Lease, impressed with the high standard of workmanship, delivering projects with condensed time frames, on time and within budget. Brad said BDM Constructions (well known for its commercial and residential capabilities) offering the complete package and having structural based knowledge, gave them the edge on competitors who only specialise in the fit-out component of shop-fitting. This experience in creating a solid

’s

BDM and straight sub-structure shop-fitting and ability to assess existing wing has structures, allows them to n been in operatio s ar give accurate advice and ye 3 er for ov g ultimately assist clients, now and is goin to th ng re st from from the initial viability of strength.” the design to maintaining the projects set budgets. a pathology lab in Laurieton, They have a large team of two dental centres locally and tradesmen, most of whom are direct one in Camden, Sydney. Further employees of BDM that specialise across all afield projects completed interstate include fields of construction, combined with a large fit-outs to NAB, ANZ and CBA banks, located in and increasing network of reliable suppliers, all Brisbane, Canberra, Sydney and Wollongong. helping to keep them competitive and produce With the increase in commercial and shopthe uncompromising quality they are proud of. fitting demands, it’s an exciting time for the BDM’s shop-fitting wing has been in operation company – which has not only opened a large for over 3 years now and is going from strength second group of offices and workshop locally to strength. The diversity of completed projects at Production Drive, Wauchope, but now have over the past 12 months, ranges from cafés, a presence on the Gold Coast, opening another several healthcare facilities, including kitchen office to handle projects awarded in South East fit-outs for Wauchope and Macksville hospitals, Queensland.

“

Brad ad stated: “With the company’s iincrease ncreas ase e th we are d t i d tto stay t llevell in growth, determined headed and not neglect our grass roots. We have re-structured the business and increased our resources to maintain the high standards of service and quality that have led to the opportunities gained.”

While talking on the local front, BDM constructions are now venturing into hospitality fit-outs and were recently engaged to carry out a major internal transformation of the Wauchope Country Club. These works will showcase in the next month’s edition of FOCUS.

greater port macquarie focus 101

focus_feature.

‘ B D M

T H E

S H O P

F I T T I N G

S P E C I A L I S T S ’ Sundial Dental renovation

Sundial Dental Owner Dr. Peter Elfar tells us about the amazing transformation of the practice.

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ongratulations on the renovations – they look amazing. How long has this work been in the pipeline?

It started in 2006 when I purchased the practices, having just comeback from the U.K. I had a 5 year plan to turn the practices around into something that would have a WOW factor from both a technological and visual perspective.

The Port Macquarie practice was more modern than Wauchope when I arrived, so after spending the first 4 years reinvesting everything back into purchasing the latest dental technologies, we turned our attention to the visual aspects of the practices. We upgraded Port Macquarie about 18 months ago with BDM, and they did a fantastic job; they delivered on time and UNDER budget. I was ecstatic with their customer service and their excellent follow through.

102 greater port macquarie focus.

Brett Witte was sensational at being on top of everything when we did Port Macquarie, so naturally I turned to Brett Witte and Brad Maggs when it came to updating the Wauchope practice – and I am just thrilled with the finished product.

When engaging BDM to do the work, what were their key skills and techniques as a builder that stood out?

In one word: HONESTY. I am so impressed with their integrity and customer service. If there was a problem, it was fixed. Nothing is too hard, and they are always customer focused. That’s really amazing! What you see is what you get, and I cannot stop recommending them to all my patients, family and friends.

Don’t get me wrong – a renovation is a stressful process; however, Brett and Brad really had everything under control and managed that stress for me. From the Council approvals and

we

“

beginning the plumbing magazine racks carry the decided work, right through to the latest magazines, catering to create ea ar end – it was a great job. to everyone’s tastes. s n’ re ild a ch Now that BDM have The fish tanks are an that had the latest in digital and completed the renovaamazing focal point of entertainment – the tions on your Wauchope the dental practice, and bordered it with practice, what does this also the XBOX and Plays.”

2 fish tank mean for new and existing station area clearly cater clients? for your younger patients ...

Let’s face it: going to the dentist tell us a bit about this decision? is not on anyone’s top 5 things-to-do We wanted everyone to be happy and list. But imagine if you could sit in a brand new, relaxed. I know it’s hard for children to come to spacious and comfortable waiting area, where offices of doctors or any professionals, and there in front of you are two mesmerising large fish may not be much to play with. So we decided tanks, and behind you a large bay window lets to create a children’s area that had the latest in in the natural light and also perfectly frames one digital entertainment – and bordered it with the of those gorgeous Wauchope fig trees. To your 2 fish tanks. left, a TV scrolls through amazing natural scenes One tank we set up as a coral reef tank with every 5 minutes in HD, with the sound of the all the ‘Nemo’ characters, and the other tank water lapping on the shore. Below the TV, three we set up with all the predator fish. And before

anyone asks ... no, there are no Piranhas (trust

skills on the Cerec system and also the recently

me – I wanted to get them!) but apparently they

acquired 3D X-ray machine. The ability to view

are illegal to have. But how cool would that have

someone’s head in 3D is amazing. It’s like a veil

been? Could you imagine feeding time!

has been pulled off my eyes, and I am able to see

So we figured if the children where happy and entertained, then mum or dad would be able to relax.

What other enhancements are left to make to the practice, either cosmetically or service-wise for your patients?

It’s been an amazing year of transformations

everything. Now when I sit down with a patient and go through their 3D X-ray, my jaw just drops at the detail we are seeing.

I am really proud of what we have done with the practice and the high level of service that we can now provide to our existing and new

for us, not only with just the renovations. I am

patients. If you’re in Wauchope, please drop in

still travelling to the United States to update my

and say hello.

greater port macquarie focus 103

focusinterview.

“Equipped with state of the art technology and over 20 years’ experience, real estate agent Greg Trembath has launched his own agency ‘with a twist’. You may have seen his distinctive green ‘for sale’ signs popping up around town in the last few months. A local agent since 1990, he explains his ‘why pay more’ approach to real estate sales and how these new ways are gaining traction.”

greg T H E T RU S T E D NA M E I N R E A L E STAT E . ou have been in Port Macquarie since the early 1980s, raised a family here and now launched a new business. Does that mean you’ll be staying around for a while?

Yes, Port Macquarie is definitely the place for me. The coastal lifestyle was great when Kim and I had a young family, and it’s equally good for us now we’re ‘empty nesters’.

I really enjoy our pristine beaches and the burgeoning café culture. You can go for a swim or a surf mid-week, grab a cappuccino and still make a breakfast meeting.

Tell us what prompted you to start your own independent agency.

Technology and the internet have had a huge impact on the real estate world. The way people want to interact with agents has completely changed, yet the industry seems reluctant to keep pace. I could see this created a market opportunity and decided to use my expertise to fill it.

Have the changes been that profound?

Absolutely. Ten years ago, buyers would browse brightly lit shop windows in the main street and make educated guesses about what else was on the market and how much they should pay for it.

Today, buyers have unlimited access to information online. Many now undertake a fair chunk of the research necessary for themselves – they are better educated, better equipped and do most of their 104 greater port macquarie focus.

‘window shopping’ online.

Your new business promises low, fixed cost commission rates. How does that work?

We charge a set commission for the properties we sell. Owners have a choice of marketing options, designed to be cost effective. The objective is to offer a fairer, low cost alternative and a more transparent sales process.

Without large overheads like franchise fees, prime office space and a hefty payroll, we work more cost-effectively and pass these savings on.

Our clients know up front how much it will cost them to sell their homes. For instance, we recently sold a home for $492,000 and the commission charged was $6,990. The owners had an all up marketing expense of $552. An agent charging 3.0% commission would charge $14,760 to sell the same property, a figure that would only be determined once the sale price is agreed to.

What has the market’s reaction been like?

I knew the lower fees would strike a chord. This, plus our reputation for quality professional service, seem to be behind most of our new business enquiries.

Local retailers have been telling me for ages that people don’t want to pay full price for goods and services any more. Most people realise that what goes on behind the scenes is pretty much the same whether an agent is selling a $250,000 property or one

for $1 million, so percentage based fees can star! I’ve also had the support of some end up being very expensive. wonderful people, including loyal and Our feedback indicates clients like how supportive clients whose homes I’ve already quickly and easily they can work out how listed and sold. I’m truly blessed in that many dollars end up in their own pockets. regard.

Others have said they like how the lower Your mention your wife, Kim. How is fees allowed them to list their property at she involved in the business? a price that encouraged more buyers and Kim and I have been working as a team resulted in a quicker sale. for a couple of years now during open Are you enjoying the new venture? house inspections. Having two sets of Very much so. I am relishing the actual eyes and ears at this important time offers business building and shaping process, and a higher level of service and seems to I really appreciate the independence work well for both home owners and flexibility. and buyers. The chance for I can also keep my finger more one-on-one time is on the pulse better now definitely a major plus. t se a We charge r fo – all enquiries come We both appreciate n io iss m m co e through me rather that selling can be the properties w a choice of than other offices or an emotional time. sell. Owners have designed ns tio op g marketin staff, so I’m on top of Having Kim on board e. The to be cost effectiv fairer, everything. Nothing’s to help guide people er a objective is to off e and iv at rn lost in translation. through the process low cost alte sales nt re pa ns tra e What have been the ensures it all goes as a mor process..” biggest challenges so smoothly as possible. far?

Kim’s media sales There haven’t been any experience has also been an major hurdles so far, although asset for the business. She oversees developing the new website and smart all our print and online media bookings, phone technology has taken longer than I leaving me free to focus on pleasing people had hoped. Everything in the new business and negotiating sales. utilises the latest technology. Developing How can readers find out more? the systems to access every possible buyer Our website is probably the best place to efficiently and quickly takes time. start: www.gregtrembath.com.au Kim’s done an amazing amount of leg You can also phone me any time on 0412 work and paperwork to get Greg Trembath 001 944 – as Kim will tell you, my phone’s Real Estate off the ground. She’s an absolute switched on 24/7.

“

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focusmotoring.

Rocking up in blue jeans, my comfy shoes, a tidy collared shirt and my favourite Las Vegas factory outlet imitation leather jacket – I felt totally underdressed when I sat inside this swanky new wagon.

‘The The Smug Smug’ g

Outback 3.6R

Outback Subaru

I

f I had pre-warning of what I was about to drive, I would have worn my top hat and tails, for sure.

If the sleek and curvy exterior didn’t have my attention, what slapped me in the face when I assumed the driving position was the elegantly designed, yet aeroplane cockpit looking dashboard and accompanying steering wheel. Smack bang in the middle of all these buttons and toggles sits a McIntosh eight-inch touch screen TV with CD/DVD player, including a full colour Satellite Navigation system. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stay in the carpark and play with all the gadgets or get stuck into the drive time.

To put myself right in the zone and after syncing my smartphone with the easy to navigate entertainment system, I appropriately selected my ‘dinner music’ playlist and started cruising to the very suave Mr Michael Buble.

Now, I’d never advocate sipping a glass of champers while driving, but you could certainly consider utilising the interior of this vehicle as a venue for your next black tie and evening gown event. It is that classy.

My trusty sales representative had given me the heads up before takeoff about some added ‘in-flight’ controls that I should test out, namely the ‘driver assistance system’ or ‘Eyesight’, as it’s appropriately named.

I had not seen or heard of anything like this type of technology used in any other prestige vehicle before, and I was intrigued and excited to learn more.

To briefly explain what this revolutionary new system entails, we’re talking about a second pair of eyes on the road. Eyesight consists of two internally mounted forward facing cameras adjacent to the rear-vision mirror that capture and transmit 3D images and data back to the vehicle’s on-board computer system.

These cameras monitor everything from your

106 greater port macquarie focus.

vehicle’s positioning within e Aside from all th the marked lanes, the speed od-cons you’d m and distance of vehicles to if you be accustomed e first and objects on the road iv dr y/ fl rly la regu driving in front of you. When class, the actual certainly Eyesight senses you laneexperience wasle, if not is going to ‘tickle’ a littlee bit on very comfortab ng. ” swaying, moving too close fi rst glance, but if you’re serious xi somewhat rela to the inside or outside lines, about safety, comfort, space for it triggers an audible warning all the luggage and a decent towing alarm to alert you to the situation. capacity, this one’s right up there for me.

This revolutionary system even With what seems to be all of the optional initiates emergency braking when it senses extras any other vehicle could hope to put forward you’ve been distracted by The Three Amigos DVD included in this model, it comes right under notice you’re (allegedly) watching on the tele and failed as a value option. to notice the stopped traffic or parked car straight Unfortunately, all of the local beaches were awash ahead of you. with coastal erosion and debris from a recent flash Yes, you read it correctly, Eyesight literally won’t storm and king-sized high tides, so I decided to allow you to drive head on into a row of parked cars assist in preserving the glamorous metallic paint job (not that many of us would even consider such a on this baby and stick to the bitumen. The Outback bold, yet totally inappropriate, move). With a hefty certainly has the capacity to be taken out into the $1,000 excess bill coming my way if I managed to elements though. ‘total’ the car, I certainly wasn’t about to challenge Flicking through the brochures back at HQ in myself with testing that feature myself. I figured finalising my review, Subaru is very keen to promote Subaru is one of the world’s most safety conscious the Outback as a serious off road option. vehicle manufacturers and would have at least given Now, I’m sure some stalwart supporters of various the system a bit of a workout on my behalf – and types of four by four options would be arcing up well before sending it to market. right now, but if I had the choice of selecting an Aside from all the mod-cons you’d be accustomed off-road option, the Outback certainly stacks up on to if you regularly fly/drive first class, the actual price-range and capabilities – at least on paper. driving experience was certainly very comfortable, if I might be somewhat hesitant to take this fine not somewhat relaxing. specimen out into the Kimberleys or through the Subaru is known for its superior handling and mountainous sand dunes at Stockton Beach, but I’d excellent on-road stability, and one can put this certainly be keen to take on any regular beach or down to its fine Japanese engineering and design on the yearly trip down to the southern highlands in of its iconic symmetrical all-wheel drive system, a snow season with no hesitation. standard across their vehicle range. The Outback The Outback 3.6R Premium certainly has appeal tightly gripped through the bends, and its 3.6 litre to young professionals, a middle to upper class horizontally opposed boxer engine really completed family, or comes under notice as a considerable the experience with its instant responsiveness and option for the oldies when thinking of towing that seamless gear changing. van around Australia as part of their mid life crisis or A quick word of warning, the pricing on this one retirement plan.

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COLORBOND STEEL 3 CARPET E FRRE 3 FLOOR TILES T E P CA 3 DISHWASHER S E & TIL !

ALARM SYSTEM 3 3 GARAGE REMOTE UNIT 3 IXL FAN/HEATER/LIGHTS 3 FLYSCREENS TO WINDOWS 3 INTEGRITY GAS HOT WATER 3 DOUBLE DOOR ROBES (600mm DEEP) 3 DESIGNER FRONT ENTRY DOORS 3 PANEL DOORS TO GARAGE 3 WATER FILTER TO KITCHEN 3 TILED FRONT ENTRY PORCH 3 OVERHEAD CUPBOARDS AND BULKHEADS TO KITCHEN AND FRIDGE SPACE

3 CHINA TOILET SUITES 3 LARGE MODERN VANITIES TO BATH/ENSUITE 3 90mm FRAMES THROUGHOUT FOR GREATER STRENGTH 3 GENEROUS LAUNDRY SPACE 3 FREE SITE APPRAISAL 3 FREE FIXED PRICED TENDER 3 FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION, GIVING YOU FLEXIBILITY 3 LARGE SELECTION OF BRICKS, TILES AND KITCHEN COLOURS 3 NUMEROUS GENESIS DESIGNS AND OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM

11600mm

Visit us now at Harrington Waters Display OPEN 3PDLMJMZ 4USFFU )BSSJOHUPO t 1I

Thurs-Mon 10am-5pm

HUNTER HOMEWORLD Whitetip St, Berry Park (Chisholm) j Ph (02) 4021 1471 or (02) 4021 142 HOMEWORLD V KELLYVILLE Hartigan Ave, Kellyville j Ph (02) 62 56 or (02) 62 4 44

www.beechwoodhomes.com.au 0ACKAGE PRICE EFFECTIVE ST *ANUARY EXCLUDES 3ITE COSTS "ASIX 3TATUTORY !UTHORITY 2EQUIREMENTS #ARPET 4ILES FROM "EECHWOOD 2ANGE 3PECIยตCATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE without notice. Land is not included in Package Prices. Prices quoted are for Classic faรงade in the Port Macquarie area. Beechwood Homes (NSW) Pty Limited ABN 50132370104, BL 207765C. *Conditions apply. *Port Macquarie area contract price. *4erraZZa $ining rooยนine only. *4auBmans Moroka allowed on certain faรงades (not 2ender).

Imagine your home in Port Macquarie.

last chance $417k!

Narsza Pty Ltd. BL: 224579C. Image is an artist’s impression only.

Prices are rising. ‘Oxley 175’ House and Land

Limited Offer.

Package was $405k and is now $417k* on Lot 35.

Be quick to secure this price – only one package left! +

Even less with current ďŹ rst home owners grant.*

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Convenient Oxley Park location.

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Wide range of colour options.

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Extensive inclusion list with no hidden extras.

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Drop in to our ofďŹ ce today.

15 Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie or visit our Display Home at 6 Currawong Dr, Oxley Park.

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Locally owned company.

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Just 6kms to Port Macquarie CBD

* Listed price for House and Land subject to two separate contracts.

Contact us on or gjgardnerportmacquarie.com.au