Southwest biz edition 45 issuu

Volume 45 APRIL/MAY 2016

WARRNAMBOOL

CARNIVAL

Portland

A GEM AT OUR DOORSTEP

The Robert Burns Festival RETURNS TO CAMPERDOWN

OUR REGIONAL VOICE:

The Great South Coast Group

BUSINESS + FOOD + MUSIC + PROPERTY + HEALTH + COMMUNITY

Get race day ready with Miss Moo Millinery Jodi highly recommends leather pieces as they are so trans-seasonal and very on-trend, appropriate for Autumn/Winter and well into Spring.

Order your piece now for the Warrnambool May Race Carnival,

and Happy Racing!

Clothes by Mangowood Boutique, photo’s by Stacey Woods Photography

Give Jodi a call on 0429 804 197 or email info@missmoomillinery.com.au www.missmoomillinery.com.au 2 southwest

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facebook.com/swestbiz southwestbiz @southwestbiz swbiz.com.au

Volume 45 APRIL/MAY 2016 Publication dates SouthwestBIZ magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed in the first week of every second month.

Advertising bookings close two weeks prior to publication. Email chris@swbiz.com.au to request a rate card or to reserve your space!

Jun/July edition deadlines Advertising bookings: close of business, Wed 11 May Editorial: close of business, Wed 11 May Published: First week in June SouthwestBIZ 2/102 Lava Street Warrnambool Vic 3280 Ph: (03) 5560 5389 Publisher: Karen Foster Editorial: Karen Foster Beth Gibson Julia Worrall Amy Gibson editorial@swbiz.com.au

Photography: Laura Mahony Chris Allsop Production Manager: Jody Miller jody@swbiz.com.au Advertising: Chris Allsop Ph: 0400 457 689 or (03) 5560 5389 chris@swbiz.com.au Published by: SouthwestBIZ Pty Ltd, 2/102 Lava Street, Warrnambool, Vic 3280 Copyright 2016© Printed by: Revolution Print This document was produced from fibres that were sourced from endorsed certified well-managed plantations and is manufactured under the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System.

Our cover: Ciaron Maher with Regina Coeli courtesy of Sharon Lee Chapman Fast Track Photography.

FROM OUR PUBLISHER It’s about this time of year when we in the southwest prepare to hunker down for the annual winter onslaught. It’s also the time thoughts turn to all things horsey. Regardless of how you feel about jumps racing (we’ll leave that issue aside for now), there is no doubt that the May Racing Carnival provides our region with an important economic boost. Latest predictions suggest the carnival injects around $30 million-plus each year into the regional economy.

The May Races build upon a tradition that dates back more than 150 years in Warrnambool. Indeed, horse racing is almost as old as the settlement itself, with the first race meeting held on the seafront at Lady

Bay in 1847. It’s no wonder racing seems to send many local hearts fluttering!

In this jam-packed edition of BIZ, we talk to some of the businesses for whom the carnival is a particularly busy time.

We also convinced some of our top fashionistas to offer up their top tips for fashions on the field success - for the blokes, as well as the fillies!

Whether you plan to spend some time trackside or simply choose to get out into the fresh air to enjoy the delightfully crisp days, we hope your Autumn is wonderful.

Karen Foster

come visit our NEWLY EXTENDED STORE for

1/27 Sackville Street Port Fairy 3284 phone (03) 5568 2160 email shop@mangowood.com.au web www.mangowood.com.au

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FEATURE

THE hooves will be pounding, the champagne will be flowing and the fashions will be looking mighty fine at the annual TAB Warrnambool May Racing Carnival from May 3 – 5.

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FEATURE

THE SOUTH WEST IS GEARING UP FOR AN INFLUX OF RACEGOERS FOR THE THREE-DAY RACE PROGRAM, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO ATTRACT AROUND 28,000 PUNTERS AND SOCIALITES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. This year, as testament to the enduring reputation of the event, the exclusive Carbine Club, formed in 1961 for sportsmen and sporting administrators, will be held on carnival eve. It’s the first time that a Victorian regional racing club has hosted the elite gathering outside of a capital city.

“Normally only held at major racing events like Hong Kong, Ascot and Flemington, this prestigious lunch will be hosted in Warrnambool,” said Warrnambool Racing Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Peter Downs. “It’s certainly a very big deal having it here. We’ll be raising money for Brenton Primmer on the day through auctions and other fundraisers.”

Local man Brenton Primmer is a former jockey who plans to compete in the equestrian events at the 2020 Paralympics.

Adding to the excitement will be this year’s carnival ambassadors 2015 Melbourne Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne and her brother and

strapper from Darren Weir’s racing stables, Stevie Payne.

Alongside the Paynes will be ambassador and former Winslow local Ciaron Maher. One of Australia’s most exciting up-andcoming trainers, Maher burst onto the scene when 100-1 shot ‘Tears I Cry’ won the 2007 Emirates Stakes at Flemington. He has had numerous Group 1 wins since and is also a prolific winner of Victoria’s major jumps races – winning the carnival’s prestigious Grand Annual Steeplechase in 2015 with ‘Regina Coeli’ for local connections.

The ambassadors will appear at several events during the festivities, including Breakfast with the Stars, the Australian Jumps Racing Association Cocktail Party and the Ladies Luncheon, which attracts around 500 guests. Also trackside will be racing royal Gai Waterhouse who “loves the carnival and desperately wants to win a Grand Annual,” according to Peter.

She’s not the only trainer with their eye on winning the prestigious pursuit where the horses rumble over a 5,500 meter course with 33 different obstacles.

“The course is one of the best in Australia in terms of views,” said Peter.

“We are proud of the layout. This race

Tuesday $125,000 3YB Scotty Stewart Brierly Steeplechase – 3450m Wednesday $150,000 Midfield Group Wangoom Handicap – 1200m $125,000 Sovereign Resort Galleywood Hurdle – 3200m Thursday $300,000 Wheelie Waste Grand Annual Steeplechase – 5500m $200,000 Sungold Milk Warrnambool Cup – 2350m

is definitely where heroes are made.”

Trainers come from all over Australia to have a crack at the challenging event, as well as other features races like the $125,000 3YB Scotty Stewart Brierly Steeplechase, $150,000 Midfield Group Wangoom Handicap, $125,000 Sovereign Resort Galleywood Hurdle and $200,000 Sungold Milk Warrnambool Cup. The club’s chief predicted around six thousand punters on the Tuesday and Wednesday and a whopping 15,000 on the Thursday.

“The fact that we get so many people at a three-day racing carnival in the middle of the week is hugely unique,” he said. “It’s definitely a ‘racing persons’ occasion and well known as one of the biggest and best in Australia.”

Peter said the club had loads to offer punters this year, with several marquees suiting different budgets, including the brand new Salinger Lounge with stylish surrounds and opulent menu.

He said trackside, there would be catering, bars and live music.

There’ll also be courtesy buses operating before and after the races between the track and CBD, plus return coaches from Geelong and Melbourne.

Michelle Payne

The annual May Racing Carnival brings a tourism boom to the town in what is a traditionally a quiet period, but apart from the economic benefits, the people of Warrnambool are proud of ‘their race’, once described “…like having the Christmas week at the start of winter.”

“The carnival is huge for Warrnambool and its community,” said Peter. “Hotels and restaurants are already booked out. We love being able to contribute to the town’s economy through this event.”

For ticket pricing, information and bookings visit www.warrnamboolracing.com.au

MARRIOTT HOTEL FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

ADDITIONAL CARNIVAL EVENTS

Fashions on the Field entrants will be judged on their overall outfit, millinery accessories; attention to detail, seasonal appropriateness and deportment.

There’s more than $20,000 in prizes across four categories: ‘traditional lady’, ‘contemporary lady’, ‘most spectacular hat’ and ‘dapper chap’. Contestants need to enter between 11am and 12 noon at the fashion stage.

Sunday May 1: 10.30am: Racing Mass Sunday, St Joseph’s Church Monday May 2: 7am - 8.30am: Breakfast with the Stars, Simons Waterfront Monday May 2: 6.30pm – 9pm: AJRA Cocktail Party, Whalers Hotel Tuesday May 3: 11am – 5pm: Ladies Luncheon, Trackside Marquee

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FEATURE

MEMORABLE Moments

1. The only time the May races were not staged was during WWII and in 1971 when they were washed out due to wet weather.

2. Jockey Dan Coleman won the Grand Annual Steeplechase seven times between 1900 and 1912.

3. Between 1878 and 1980, 10 horses won the Grand Annual two years in a row.

4. The weight carrying record for the grand annual was set in 1902 when ‘Sailor’ won with 79.8 kilograms.

It took him nine minutes and 13 seconds to cover the two laps.

5. The slowest winner on record was ‘Greystanes’ (79.3 kilos), who took 11 minutes and 22 seconds to cover the course in 1880.

6. The record holder is ‘Buxton’, who blitzed the course in six minutes 28 2/5 seconds in 1963.

7. The Grand Annual had its own makeshift winning post, which regularly confused the jockeys much to the furor of punters.

8. The largest field of horses in the Grand Annual was 16 in 1949 and also in 1953. In 1952 only three started and in 1882 only two raced.

9. In 1976 trainer Peter Homann was so nervous about watching aged gelding ‘Blackson’ race obstacle course that he hid behind the grandstand.

10. The Warrnambool Cup was won six times by champion Melbourne jockey Harry White. There were 20 years between two of these wins.

JUST eight months after putting down roots in Warrnambool, our first settlers didn’t waste time organising the first horse race meet in 1847.

It was held at the site of what is still known as Jetty’s Flat, adjacent to Lake Pertobe. There were three events, with the big one known as the ‘Town Plate’, which was won by ‘Pilot’.

Just a few years later the government tagged 40 hectares of land for what is now the existing racecourse site.

In 1859 the Warrnambool Amateur Turf Club was formed, and the first Grand Annual Steeplechase was held on June 13, 1872. The layout incorporated the paddocks still known as Brierly and Granters, but with different obstacles. There were 11 starters in the inaugural race and the sweepstake was a tidy 36 pounds.

The newly constituted Warrnambool Racing Club held its first carnival in 1874, the same year New York jockey Bill Trainor won the Grand Annual. No jockey from the USA has won it since.

The drawcard race has a history

of thrills and spills, the most dramatic on record being in 1909 when the entire 10 starters either fell or baulked.

Only three got up to finish the race.

Meanwhile, 1934 is remembered for the greatest display of courage. Favourite ‘Flavedo’ hesitated at a fence and fell, throwing it’s jockey. Although left semiconscious, both man and mount battled the odds to finish and win.

And that’s why punters come from far and wide: to see heroes made, experience history in the making and be part of something special.

1913 Brierly Steeplechase Winner Arion

AND FOR THE RACE DAY CATWALK?

BLUE. THAT’S THE WINNING TIP GENTLEMEN WANTING TO LOOK SHARP AT THE FASHION FRENZIED MAY RACES. Blue and colour-on-colour is the winning tip for men’s fashion this year, and mixing patterns and accessorising is the key to smashing the perfect trackside look in 2016.

Hannah White from Clancey’s Menswear said men are quite discerning now and are upping the ante on the fashion stakes.

“SUITS ARE SLIM AND TAILORED NOW,” said Hannah, “but in a way that flatters any body type, even older gentlemen.”

According to Hannah, this season’s suit colour is blue. “It’s the most popular shade and can look very smart teamed with any coloured shirt,” she said. “When you haven’t got a clue, go for blue.”

Tan chinos teamed with an open collared shirt and sports jacket is a great combination for a more casual race day, advised Hannah. Hats were a mainstay accessory, but braces and bow 6

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ties should be left at home.

Lea Watson from Pitstop Menswear said race day fashion had come full circle since she started styling men 35 years ago – and yes, that meant pastels were back for suits and sports jackets.

“WITH A PASTEL JACKET, GO FOR A CRISP, WHITE SHIRT AND INTRODUCE COLOUR IN A BOLD TIE OR HANDKERCHIEF,” she suggested.

“Make sure you look polished, especially by wearing a belt,” chimed in Pitstop’s Hayley Grant. “We’ve been known to see a client at the races and straighten their tie. We love how proud they are of what they’re wearing.”

Just like Hannah, Lea said the trend straight out of Europe is ‘colour-on-colour’ with patterns like checks, stripes and paisley. “There’s lots of blue this year,” said Lea. “Match it with a patterned blue shirt and blue tie, then add a mustard, red or orange hankerchief for a smash of colour.”

While many men are open to trying new colour and pattern combinations, any apprehensive gentleman suiting up for the first time should stick to the more traditional grey and charcoal suit, but be daring and fun with their accessories, said Lea.

THE BARBER’S TIP From wavy, high volume undercuts and modern side parts to military buzz cuts and man bobs, the word on the street is that if you’re suiting up for the races, make sure your hair is clean, styled and looking smick. Facial hair is acceptable but, as Arley Raymond of Birds & Fellas advises, "If you shave, make sure you do it the day before so there's less chance of a shaving rash." And Arley's tip for a trendy chop? “We're loving the traditional men’s pompadour style cut. It’s very dapper and matches a well-tailored suit."

Jodi Fry AKA "Miss Moo" surrounded by her beautiful creations

The Queen

of Hats ON a beef and sheep farm north of Port Fairy, Jodi Fry sits in her studio sculpting and stitching the next generation of race day headwear. otally absorbed in her wearable art under the label Miss Moo Millinery, the local milliner breaks the creative spell only when she absolutely needs to.

“The people in my house have to fend for themselves sometimes,” she chuckles. “I just get so involved in my creations it’s hard to switch off.”

Ever since she was old enough to operate a sewing machine, Jodi has loved to create fashion. For most of her life she’s sewn her own clothes and that tradition carried on when she had her own family of three with husband Trevor.

The former nurse and Vic Hotel waitress has today given up everything to concentrate on her true passion: millinery.

“I started making hats for my daughter and her friends,” said Jodi. “Then my girlfriend Michelle Mayo from ‘If the Shoe Fits’ in Port Fairy asked me to supply some hats to her store. This lead to a spring collection and it turned out to be very successful from there.”

Over the past decade Jodi

has fully immersed herself in her millinery studies, being mentored by great Australian milliners like Rebecca Share, Waltraud Reiner, Serena Lindeman and Elaine Murgard, who she says are all “invigorating and inspiring.”

With new products, trends and colors constantly changing, Jodi is known for her classic and sophisticated styles, as well as headwear that pushes the boundaries.

“As a sewer you just take that skill and expand upon it,” she said.

“I’ve always loved hats and wore them when nobody else did. I do like a feminine and elegant style with lots of flowers, but clients come to me wanting all sorts of things.”

In the Miss Moo Millinery workshop (Miss Moo is her daughter Tara’s nickname) Jodi takes the best part of three days to make a hat. She molds the base fabric, wires it into the desired shape, stretches the fabric and then adds all the trimmings.

“It’s quite a long process,” explained Jodi. “A lot of people don’t

understand the work that goes into

FOUR OF JODI’S HATS WERE

one hat design. The cost of materials

CONVERSATION PIECES AT

can also be expensive.”

Last year Jodi made 50 hats. Her

inspiration is drawn pretty much directly from the client’s dress and accessories, particularly considering the ‘lines’ of the outfit and if the fabric is block colour or floral.

She’s also making a lot of leather headwear, which is transitional with the seasons.

“Clients will bring in photos of

hats that they like and then we’ll try on various bases to see what suits their face shape and personality.

Either way, it’s important to wear the hat on the right part of the head, like it’s been designed.”

FLEMINGTON’S FANCY ‘BIRD CAGE’ MARQUEE LAST YEAR. Her creations have also been worn by finalists and winners in Fashions on the Field at the Warrnambool races.

“Nobody will see two of my hats look the same,” she said. “I love it when I finish a piece and look at it from all angles and know it’s done.

The best part is seeing my client’s face; knowing I have made their vision come to life.”

In addition to custom-made hats, you can purchase a ready-to-wear Miss Moo Millinery creation online or from Mangowood Boutique in Sackville Street, Port Fairy.

Trackside Fashion Tip

“There’s an incredibly high standard for fashion at the Warrnambool races. If you’re entering Fashions on the Field there are some basic rules to follow. Only enter your outfit if it can be described as elegant and modest and make sure it’s appropriate for the weather. If it’s a cool day, then a coat or jacket is a must. Don’t show too much skin or wear anything too short. For May races you really should wear a filled in shoe and, whilst it’s not mandatory, hosiery is a good idea. This year’s head fashion is the ‘percher’ – which sits on the forehead – pillbox hats and solid bases. Leather and felt are in. As we head into Autumn and Winter you should pick stronger colors. The feminine ones are always popular like pink, but there’s also a lot of burgundy, magenta, burnt orange, navy, black and grey.” southwest

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LOCAL RETAILERS BOND TO BUILD A COASTAL FASHION MECCA IN PORT FAIRY

T

he seaside village of Port Fairy is making a serious splash on Victoria’s fashion radar.

From road testing new labels to undertaking flashy shop fit-outs, the town’s independent clothing boutiques are collectively raising the bar to secure the title of a must-visit regional fashion destination.

Sharing the belief that ‘one customer is everyone’s customer’, savvy store owner/operators have been busy behind the scenes identifying gaps in fashion offerings, working towards product diversity, and keeping up with ‘who has what’ on the shelves.

Port Fairy Fashion Group traders and best mates Michelle Mayo and Fiona Cavanagh have finally pounced on an idea their husbands have been implying for years; to merge their 8

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independently successful businesses to one location.

Michelle, the proprietor of If the Shoe Fits, recently relocated to Fiona’s much larger retail space, Isabellas Boutique and Gifts at 31 Sackville Street. Prior to the merger, they invested in a full store refurbishment.

“Michelle was looking for a new space, so we thought we’d join together to share costs,” said Fiona.

“It’s all blended together really well and it’s so much more economical.

My shop is three times bigger than her old one, so neither of us had to cut back on stock. We’re offering a new experience to shoppers and the feedback is that they love it. It’s important to stay fresh and ahead of the game.”

After two-and-a-half years Jennifer Van Haren has given her shop Mangowood a new facelift too.

She’s extended her fine fashion store making room for a new change room, extra stock and more adventurous and exciting merchandising.

“When visitors come to Port Fairy they say how good the personal customer service is compared to the city,” said Jennifer. “At Mangowood we have formal and race wear in our store, plus all the accessories. So lots of women from the local region shop here too. We also have quite a few groups from Melbourne and Ballarat who make a day or weekend of it in Port Fairy. They can shop, have coffee, go to the day spa and have dinner. It’s a complete experience.”

Vanessa Stormer from men and women’s casual attire store Decked out on Bank said her industry colleagues were supportive because they avoided doubling up on labels and will refer customers to another store if they

didn’t stock a particular item.

“By pooling our resources and marketing Port Fairy together as a key fashion destination, people are coming from far and wide,” said Vanessa. “They really seem to like our individual shops and getting to know the staff. They like that our doors are always open and inviting and it’s not rushed here like it is in the city.”

Stacey O’Sullivan from the popular Port Fairy Day Spa said regularly conversing with her peers meant she was able to invest wisely in the expansion of her retail lines.

Successfully the largest supplier of top-brand swimwear in the southwest, catering for all body shapes (up to size 22), the day spa has now expanded into surf wear.

“The group collaboratively identified that there was a lack of

FEATURE

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When visitors come to Port Fairy they say how good the personal customer service is compared to the city. casual surf wear on offer here in Port Fairy,” explained Stacey. “As a result, we’re now stocking items like hoodies, knits, parker vests and scarves at the day spa. Now even the locals can routinely shop in Port Fairy and we’ve got all their needs covered.”

Linda Langley of Reflections boutique believed that Port Fairy Fashion Group’s Facebook page, which profiles new stock and sales across all stores, was successful in prompting followers to make in-store purchases, rather than online.

“Retail is a tough environment,” said Linda. “Social media is a strong tool to attract people here. Most people within a 100 kilometre radius know there is great shopping in Port Fairy, but others from further afield will often be surprised at the selection we have, as well as everything else you can do here.”

Lorna Wilkinson at 64 Sackville

said they’re now branching out into baby and children’s wear.

“There’s not a lot of children’s clothing here so we’re testing the waters with some great labels at a good price,” said Lorna. “We want to give the locals as well as the visitors a full range of children’s wear. It’s important to keep progressing.”

Over at Francis & Francis, Jan Francis carries contemporary labels like Elk, which has awarded her a strong following of local shoppers, as well as returning tourists who love to browse her edgy, seasonable clothing and accessory lines.

These ‘fancy ladies’ of Port Fairy are not only single-handedly building the ‘new fashion capital’ of the southwest, they’re also creating a sustainable industry built on mutual respect, unwavering customer service and a shared love for beautiful clothes. Well done, ladies.

1. Jan of Francis & Francis has meticulously designed her showroom for a fine shopping experience. 2. Lorna of 64 Sackville is branching out into new lines.

3. Linda at Reflections has a vast array of fashionable items. 4. Mangowood's newly extended showroom is a pleasure to shop in. 5. A large selection of swimwear is available at Port Fairy Day Spa. 6. The showroom at Decked Out on Bank is bright and colourful. 7. Fiona and Michelle at Isabellas and If The Shoe Fits always have bright smiles when greeting customers.

64 Sackville 64 Sackville Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 1788 Decked Out On Bank 21 Bank Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 1736 www.deckedoutonbank.com Isabellas & If The Shoe Fits 31 Sackville Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 3277 Francis & Francis 39 Sackville Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 3333 www.francisandfrancisportfairy.com.au

Mangowood 1/ 27 Sackville Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 2160 www.mangowood.com.au Port Fairy Day Spa 56 Bank Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 1161 www.portfairydayspa.com Reflections in Port Fairy 55 Sackville Street, Port Fairy Ph: 5568 1806 www.portfairyboutique.com.au

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FOCUS

the Yellow Door ON et Kepler Stre

WHEN YOU SEE A YELLOW DOOR, THERE’S NO DOUBT YOU’RE GOING TO FIND SOMETHING PRETTY SPECIAL ON THE OTHER SIDE. At Birds and Fellas on Kepler Street in Warrnambool, it’s a warm and welcoming entrance to the developing dreams of twenty-something hairdresser, Arley Raymond.

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“Yellow’s my favorite color,” smiles Arley. “It’s a sign of happiness.”

Walk in and you’re greeted by a hip and happy floor crew of hairstylists and barbers. The space is relaxing and comfortable for clients of both sexes and all ages.

“It’s a fun, energetic, loud and very passionate environment,” said Arley, who founded the salon three years ago.

“It’s the building too. I just walked past it one day and fell in love with it.”

The local lass has come a long way since she first opened the door of the creative edge unisex salon; one of the few in the district offering a full barber service with traditional cut throat shave.

Arley’s gone from working solo to managing a team of nine other stylists – including junior, Daisy, who is “always wide eyed with excitement”.

“We have a workplace that’s really fun and we share a strong passion for hairdressing,” said Arley. “We are always learning from each other and strive for perfection. We love the latest trends that can be easily enjoyed by our clients every day.”

Birds and Fellas seems to have taken on a life of its own during the initial three-year growth period.

Arley’s rarely advertised for staff – they’ve all just knocked on the door.

“Our new barber Jimmy was a client at the salon,” said Arley. “He wanted to work with us so he moved to Melbourne to do his training, which

was pretty amazing. That shows how much we have each other’s back; I just want everyone to have a great work and home life balance.”

For Arley, the transition from employee to self-made business woman after time travelling and working her trade in Scotland has been a definite eye-opener.

“I still have those light bulb moments,” she said. “My parents have a strong business background and offered great advice on how to look after staff and manage things.

I’ve also had some great advice from other amazing local businesses.”

Arley hasn’t felt intimidated by the business’s rapid growth and is confidently embracing it. She’s even extending her salon hours in the week and on Saturdays.

“We’re just rolling with our own thing,” she said. “Our team can do anything and we’re all really versatile.

I just want everyone to have a great day at work. That rolls on to the client getting the very best customer service.”

RETAIL

Put a ring on it LOCAL JEWELLER CALMS THE NERVES AND BRINGS ON THE BLING

O

nce an engagement ring is chosen, most jewellers farewell the couple with a blessing and perhaps, down the track, wonder what ever became of them.

But at Leske’s Jewellers, many couples return to purchase wedding rings and bands, milestone anniversary gifts, or a ‘push’ present (when baby comes along). Plus, the aforementioned babies generally make an in-store appearance, much

to the delight of clucking staff.

Owner Sandra Greenberger said it was the personalized service and quality craftmanship that set her Port Fairy jewellers apart from the rest.

“We source our diamonds wholesale from Belgium and Israel for our clients,” said Sandra.

“If a customer comes in for an engagement ring, we’ll sit down with them and look at each loose diamond to find the best one to suit their needs

and budget. We’re the only jewellers She said quite often clients took in the region that does that.” the opportunity to bring in old gold, Sandra said when men walked diamonds and gems handed down through the door they were from generations to be remodelled understandably nervous, but after into beautiful, bespoke designs. the offer of a coffee or beer “We love coming up with unique and some relaxing ideas to acknowledge a ve conversation, they family connection,” “We lo p u soon settled down said Sandra. g comin s and their nerves

So, what about a ue ide q i n u h subsided. the guys who are too wit e g d e l w o “Even though nervous to choose an to ackn we are in a small engagement ring on ly i a fam town we are their own? tion.” very conscious of Leske’s loan them a connec confidentiality,” assured ‘promise ring’ for when they Sandra. “We have a private area pop the big question. Then, when the available so customers can be relaxed time is right, the couple can visit the and take the time they need to make store and choose or design their own their important decision.” unique piece.

Sandra said “anything that makes “It’s the sentimentality of it all that a real statement” was popular right makes what we do so wonderful,” now with engagement rings and that said Sandra. “It’s so exciting to be colored gemstones like sapphires part of a special occasion like an and morganites were on trend. engagement and we love to bring She observed that there was also a out the champagne and chocolates. renewed interest in pear, oval and Our customers become like cushion shaped diamonds. extended family.”

THE PERFECT GIFT IDEA

Only at Leskes Jewellers A personalised custom design service with

our master jeweller and designer!

From only $195 you can give a lasting gift Handcrafted from new or remodelled from to someone special.... sentimental old gold and diamonds.

Graduation 16th, 18th or 21st Birthday Exceptional quality, exclusive designs and sparkling white diamonds.

sparkling diamonds set in 9ct gold

Visit us 7 days or after hours by appointment.

Create your dream ring today www.facebook.com/leskes.jewellers

23 Bank Street, Port Fairy

03 5568 3133

www.leskesjewellers.com.au southwest

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Portland A gem at our doorstep

IT’S A SAD FACT THAT MOST GPS TECHNOLOGY GUIDES TRAVELLERS RIGHT AROUND PORTLAND. LOCATED ON A BROAD PROMONTORY WITH MAJOR HIGHWAYS SKIRTING ITS EDGES, THIS PORT CITY IS MISSED BY ALTOGETHER TOO MANY TRAVELLERS. BUT IT SEEMS THAT WORD IS GETTING AROUND THAT THIS PORTSIDE JEWEL IS WELL WORTH A VISIT IN ITS OWN RIGHT.

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FEATURE

After a dip in tourism in the early part of this decade, visitor numbers are again on the rise for Victoria’s official birthplace.

And here are just some of the reasons why.

THE CITY'S HISTORY The oldest European settlement in the state, the safe anchorage was first settled by 24-year-old Edward Henty. Using a plough he had fashioned himself, he was the first European to turn a sod in Victoria.

It was later named by James Grant, a British navigator, in honour of the Duke of Portland in 1800.

Today, Portland’s CBD features more than 200 historic buildings, many of which date back to the 1800s. With its wide, bluestone-lined streets, there is a genuine sense of stepping back in time.

Few locals take much notice of the historic cable trams that creak through the streets of Portland each day. But the little tourist attraction with the big heart has won fans from across the world, adding

immeasurably to the tourist economy.

Last month, Portland Cable Trams welcomed its 150,000th passenger aboard. Coincidentally, that milestone fell on the very day that Portland Cable Trams marked its 14th birthday.

The 100-year-old trams originally ferried passengers through the City of Melbourne. Salvaged in the 1990s, they were painstakingly restored by a team of passionate Portland volunteers, many of whom still volunteer as tram drivers and conductors today.

GREAT COFFEE AND SHOPPING There is a popular misnomer that it’s not possible to get a good coffee west of the Westgate Bridge. We beg to differ!

A plethora of cosy cafes and coffee

haunts has sprung up in Portland in recent years, including the slightly eccentric Tea Tree Gallery, the slick Lido Larder and Café Bahloo, which has taken residence in one of Portland’s historic bluestone buildings.

Portland is also home to many local fashion stores and retail goodies. Taking a quick stroll along Perry Street – Portland’s main shopping strip – you’ll come across fashion for the ladies, men and children. From Absolutely Fabulous and Alibi for the ladies and Alex Cancian for the men, there’s no end to fashionable hot spots.

There’s also plenty of free parking within easy walking distance of the main shopping precinct, so the shopping experience could be described as ‘casual’.

And Glenelg Shire Council has just

recently decided to offer free Saturday morning parking in metered car parks in the CBD, including Bentinck, Julia, Percy and Henty streets.

The Council described this move as an important step towards its vision of creating a ‘vacancy-free’ Portland CBD. VINO! The increasingly lauded Henty wine region extends from the Hopkins River near Warrnambool across to the South Australian border. Providing conditions similar to Europe’s Rhine Valley and Burgundy, the Henty is gathering momentum as a producer of fine quality white wines.

Its cool climate gives rise to award-winning rieslings, pinot noir and chardonnays. Here’s cheers to that!

southwest

13

HAPPY TRAILS AND WHALES One of the most notable walking experiences to be had locally is the Great South West Walk – a 250-kilometre bushwalking loop between Portland and Nelson.

The experience begins and ends at Portland’s Maritime Discovery Centre, taking in three National Parks, hardwood forests, the Glenelg River, Aboriginal heritage sites, Australia’s only mainland Australasian Gannet rookery, seal colonies, vast sand dunes and unparalleled views across the Southern Ocean.

The full length walk is described as “moderately challenging”, with campsites located at 10 to 20-kilometre intervals. Daytrippers can also tackle the route in smaller chunks.

A local walking group meets most months to take in different stretches of the Great South West Walk and the next scheduled walking group event

14

southwest

is a 13-kilometre walk from Nobles Rocks to Nelson on Saturday 16 April.

If you would rather sit back and enjoy the sights of Portland then keep your eyes peeled and ready to spot the many whales who frequent the region. All year round, different species of whales can be spotted from various vantage points in the area. Between May and October the local waters are visited by Southern Right Whales, while between November and May you can spot Blue Whales, the largest mammals

walks often report the first sightings of the day along the clifftop. Great spots include the Lighthouse at Whalers Bluff and from the Ploughed field overlooking Nuns beach.

•

Cape Bridgewater Bay – there are many great spots for viewing the Southern Right Whales, along with dolphins, killer

While we’re limited by the number of pages we can squeeze into the magazine, there’s no limit to what you can do in Portland. In fact, you can find many more things to see and do by visiting any of the websites on this handy list: •

whales etc. when they come into the bay.

on the planet.

WINTER SOUTHERN RIGHT

SUMMER BLUE WHALE VIEWING

WHALE VIEWING SPOTS : • Out on the breakwater – closest you will get to the whales as sometimes they come visiting right in the harbour.

• On the clifftop overlooking the bay – locals on their morning

SPOTS : •

Viewing platforms at Cape

• • •

Nelson Lightstation •

Blowholes at Cape Bridgewater

•

– look for the 12 metre blow! Be sure to take your binoculars for easy viewing.

•

Visit Portland: www.visitportland.com.au Budj Bim Tours: www.budjbimtours.com Portland Cable Trams: portlandcabletrams.com.au Whalemail Whale Watching: www.whalemail.com.au Committee for Portland: www. committeeforportland.com.au Glenelg Shire: www.glenelg.vic.gov.au

POrTLAND

Ancient wonder vies for global attention IT’S A STORY SEVERAL THOUSAND YEARS IN THE MAKING. AND THE PEN IS POISED AS THE NEXT CHAPTERS ARE SET TO UNFOLD.

O

lder than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, the Budj Bim Cultural Heritage landscape, near Heywood, is vying for UNESCO World Heritage Status.

If successful, this beautiful but unassuming landscape will join such wonders as India’s Taj Mahal and Italy’s Pompeii as sites deemed to have global significance.

Budj Bim’s traditional owners, the Gunditjmara people, believe

this special place is worthy of international attention.

“Heritage listing is very important,” says Aaron Morgan, a guide at Budj Bim Tours. “It gives the world a chance to learn about my people and see the country through Gunditjmara eyes.”

And Morgan is not alone in that belief – the landscape was included in the National Heritage List in 2007, joining 18 other nationally significant Tyrendarra Indigenous protected area

Budj Bim Tours

sites, including Kakadu and the Great Barrier Reef.

Sacred to the Gunditjmara, Budj Bim is home to what some believe is the oldest permanent human settlement on the planet.

Certainly, there is evidence that large, settled Aboriginal communities systematically farmed and smoked eels here for food and trade. Their extensive aquaculture systems enabled them to channel water of the Darlot Creek into adjacent lowlying areas, trapping eels and fish in a series of weirs. This provided a year-round supply of eels, enabling a forager society to settle in permanent stone dwellings, the remains of which can still be seen today.

Visitors to Budj Bim can see the hollowed Manna Gums in which the Gunditjmara smoked their eels, and the Gunditjmara community takes every opportunity to tell people about this special place. It conducts tours for interested visitors and maintains a steady pressure on the Commonwealth to ensure it is

advocating to have Budj Bim included on the World Heritage List.

“These tours provide a much better appreciation and understanding of pre-settlement history in this area, the real history,” says Morgan.

In order to achieve the feat of UNESCO Heritage Status, the site must be deemed to be of “outstanding universal value” and must meet at least one of 10 key selection criteria. These criteria include reference to cultural traditions that have disappeared, and also to landscapes that illustrate significant stages in human history.

For now, the Gunditjmara people can do little more than wait. The process of achieving UNESCO World Heritage Status is not a fast one. But, if successful, it could catapult this quiet corner of southwest Victoria into the international tourism spotlight.

For details about Budj Bim and guided cultural tours, visit www.budjbimtours.com.

BU Come and vist our FOR SSINESS GALLERY & CAFE ALE

delightful The Tea-Treebursting Gallery iswith a unique andfinds uplifting dining and visual experience. The tearooms, galleries, second-hand book exchange and hallways are

'bringing back the art of hospitality'

You can find us at number

3

along the

Guided tours of the Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape Winda Mara dancers, Indigenous dance group

Find us on

www.budjbimtours.com ⅼ Ph: 0458 999 315 southwest

15

16

southwest

FEATURE

PREPARING FOR

Retirement is an exciting, positive time of life, but like any life change it brings with it an element of uncertainty and high emotion.

F

or many of us, part of our self-worth is centred around the work we do and without this life can feel somewhat lacking in direction or purpose. Rebecca Henshall, Psychologist and Senior Consultant with LifeWorks in the Workplace (www.lifeworks.com.au), spoke to us to share her top tips for making this process easier, with the ultimate goal of retiring with your mental health in its rightful place.

PREPARE EARLY Time is of the essence, as they say.

For both emotional and practical reasons it’s vital that you give yourself time to prepare and formulate plans.

This will enable you to follow all the steps detailed below, as well as just get used to the idea and discuss any fears you have. Henshall says one of the best things to do is start to imagine the future: “The better we can imagine the real experience, rather than our ‘ideal’ experience of retirement the better we will be able to adjust and adapt to a new life stage.”

Start setting some goals to help make it seem more real – these might relate to fitness, family, social life or an interest you always wanted more

time to pursue – and give yourself purpose and some positives to focus on.

HAVE A PLAN Henshall says that planning is the best way to reduce any anxiety around retirement. “Writing out a plan helps set a future direction and identifies what skills and resources you have to turn the plan into reality,” she explains.

Gary Frontin retired at the age of 64, and spent the three years prior to that creating an extensive plan for the transition. He says his plan included “ongoing consultancy work in my previous profession, travelling extensively and gaining a qualification in my new career as a certified retirement coach.” So far so good: this approach has worked well for Frontin, who jokes that “without my plan I think I would be climbing walls, and my wife would have divorced me!”

BUILD UP OTHER SOCIAL INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE OF WORK Look for other commitments and networks of people around you, to give you direction and support during your retirement years. These could include sporting teams, local clubs,

volunteering or spending more time with grandchildren. “Take a moment and think about the self worth and value that you currently receive from the job and identify where that can be achieved through other avenues,” explains Henshall. Skills could be used in another forum, such as a mentorship, consulting or volunteer work.

Almost two years into his retirement, Frontin has found a good balance. “I now have a mix of meaningful work and leisure activities which keep my mental health intact,” he explains. “I’m looking forward to continuing these and other new adventures.”

SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT Talk to the experts about the various aspects of retirement: a psychologist and a finance expert, for example, who will be able to give you advice on how to cope with both the transition and the reality of retirement.

HAVE OPEN COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR EMPLOYER Talking to your employer about your plans for retirement helps both parties be well prepared for the transition and the future.

“Sometimes this can raise fear about the organisation’s reaction,” says Henshall. “However, most employers would value the honesty and integrity that comes with helping both you and the organisation plan ahead.”

Your employer may also be able

to help you tailor retirement to your needs. Perhaps you’d like to retire gradually, scaling back to part-time work, or taking on consulting work for a few years after finishing up.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR EMOTIONS As with any big life change, retirement can bring with it a feeling of loss, among other things such as anxiety, grief and depression.

It’s important to be aware of such possible implications, but also remember it isn’t all bad news; there is a great amount of hope that comes with retirement. “Be gentle on yourself and take the transition slowly,” advises Henshall.

This article was provided by SuperFriend www.superfriend.com.au, a national health promotion foundation that helps 'all profit to member' superannuation funds to promote and support improved mental health and wellbeing for their members, through the workplace. southwest

17

Lyndoch living FOR

Phone (03) 5561 9300 Hopkins Road, Warrnambool,VIC 3280 www.lyndoch.org.au

FOCUS

Big plans at

Lyndoch

living

SINCE 1952, WARRNAMBOOL’S LYNDOCH LIVING HAS BEEN ON A JOURNEY OF GROWTH TO MEET THE CONSTANTLY CHANGING NEEDS OF RESIDENTS ACROSS THE SOUTH WEST.

N

estled on the banks of the beautiful Hopkins River, Lyndoch has come a long way since it was a modest 12-bed aged care facility.

These days it offers residential aged care services, independent living and modern retirement lifestyle options. It’s also a growing provider of care services in the broader community, enabling people of all ages and abilities to live independently at home.

The staff from Lyndoch recognise the individual needs of every resident and client on a daily basis. By providing person-centred support, advice and care, they help each client lead a fulfilling and dignified life.

There are many exciting developments currently underway that will ensure Lyndoch continues to be a fantastic place to live and that partnerships continue to expand, with a vision to fill service gaps across the southwest.

The inaugural ‘Healthy Change and Innovation from 2016 and Beyond’ conference will be held on 26 August 2016, in ‘The Regatta Room’ at the Deep Blue Hotel & Spa, Warrnambool. This major event, caters for a broad range of

clinicians, educators, senior staff and executives, helping them gain valuable insight into the changing face of the health industry including the innovations emerging to help shape the destiny of the health industry and support best practise for organisations. The conference will explore emerging trends relating to what different generations expect of the health system, the changes that can be made to stay abreast of consumer demands, and how to engage leaders to evolve and adapt to the changing face of the health care system, whilst remaining sustainable.

Structurally, Lyndoch is currently finalising a master plan, which will act as a blueprint for improvements to the facility’s buildings and surrounding environment in the near future.

Changes have also been implemented in the kitchen as part of the Maggie Beer Foundation’s pilot program ‘Creating an Appetite for Life’, which aims to improve the food experience in aged care. Two of Lyndoch’s chefs, alongside a number of industry peers underwent training by some of the country’s most notable chefs to learn how to create nutritious, full flavoured, low cost meals.

To further enhance the dining experience at Lyndoch, the old crockery (most of it plastic) has been discarded and replaced with brand new Schonwald crockery imported from Germany. The collection not only looks beautiful, but has also been designed specifically for retirement living.

There’s no doubt that Lyndoch Living is one of the region’s biggest employers and strongly supports staff and volunteers with further training and professional development, offered both internally and externally.

Earlier this year, two staff members took part in the Leadership Great South Coast Program; an annual event that helps aspiring and emerging leaders to build relationships between the business, community and government sectors.

Last year personal carer Tracy McDowell was one of ten carers from across Australia selected to participate in the annual ‘Dementia Dynamics Personal Carer’ fellowship funded by Flinders University. Not only will this fellowship permit Tracy to provide new skills and knowledge to Warrnambool, it will raise the profile of the significant role carers play in dementia care.

Lyndoch has also teamed up with SouthWest TAFE to create the Lyndoch Living Partnership Program.

The training model enables aged care, and health and community care students to obtain practical experience and training in situ. Last

year the program won an Industry Collaboration Award at the Victorian Training Awards and was a finalist in the Australian Training Awards.

The team at Lyndoch Living go the extra mile to ensure that the organisation is connected and engaged with the broader southwest community. Activities that help achieve this include the intergenerational program with local schools, and storytelling through projects like the ABC Open Seniors Project.

Lyndoch’s volunteers are also an integral part of the organisation.

At Lyndoch there are over 180 volunteers who enthusiastically offer their time, skills and companionship to the residents. Several volunteers have won industry awards from peak bodies – Leading Aged Care Association (LASA), Aged and Community Services (ACSA), Ministerial Awards – Premier’s Volunteer Champions Award, and recognition from the Commonwealth Government for outstanding volunteer contributions to their local community, winning the National Volunteer Awards 2015 for their selfless contributions.

There are many stories in the making at Lyndoch as it continues to be the ‘best that it can be’ for the local community today and in the future. Watch this space. www.lyndoch.org.au southwest

19

6W

Scored 96

rrays 201

| le

in Jim Mu

0 /10

hisky Bib

Enjoy a fantastic day trip from

Warrnambool to Timboon

woodfired pizzas last Friday night of every month

lunch 7 days Dinner Friday nights www.timboondistillery.com.au

Mother’s day lunch

2 or 3 course luncheon 2 courses $35 or 3 courses $42

8th May

Call 03 5598 3555 to book now

20 southwest

E X PER IEN C E THE N EW AGE OF R E TIR EME N T LI VI NG. PERMANENT D I S P L AY U N I T S Experience Waterfront Living every Wednesday, 10am -12 noon, at our regular open display.

WATERFRONT LIVING

Waterfront Living is a lifestyle community for active retirees seeking independence, privacy and affordable luxury.

Enjoy waterfront views, maintained gardens, complimentary use of vehicle and full access to your own cafÊ, bar, library and barbecue deck – beautiful spaces for you to share with family and friends.

Apartments priced from $395,000, Villas priced from $170,000

To find out more, visit www.waterfrontliving.org.au or contact sales on 5559 3456.

Photo by Clinton Warburton

SPECIALISING IN HOME-BASED SPEECH THERAPY SERVICES CONDITIONS

CLIENTS

- Expressive & Receptive Aphasia - Swallowing Difficulties - Dyspraxia / Dysarthria - Voice Therapy (LSVT Loud) - Fluency/Stuttering - Communication Disorders

- Chronic Disease Management - Department of Veteran Affairs - Progressive Neurological Conditions - Stroke/Traumatic Brain Injury/Acquired Brain Injury - General Treatment of Adults & Aged Care - Rehabilitation

For more details visit www.sbspeech.com.au Po Box 986 Warrnambool VIC 3280 | Ph: 0497 736 363 | Email: sheree@sbspeech.com.au

S T A R T IN G A P R IL

3 month GYM DEAL *

$150

Call AQUAZONE now or drop in to take advantage of this LIMITED OFFER

*conditions apply

www.aquazone.com.au

p. 5559 4500 H

Natural Medicine Clinic

Specialising in women’s and family health - Natural fertility - Preconception/ pregnancy care - Hormonal regulation Sarah Porter -

Naturopath & Herbalist B.H.Sci (Nat), mNHAA

- Fatigue

- Stress management - Immune support - Detox and weight loss - Digestive complaints - Children’s health

For more info head to www.hiderhealth.com.au

62 hider street | warrnambool VIC 3280 | p: 5562 4876 22 southwest

ea *Pr l av th iva ai reb te la a bl te e s

BALANCE

Chat with a

Naturopath Sarah Porter Naturopathy looks at the body as a whole, aiming to treat the cause of disease, not simply masking the symptoms.

O

ne of my absolute passions when working as a Naturopath, is working with couples who are looking to conceive. It is the most rewarding experience, both for the couple achieving their goal of starting/ extending their family and for me working with them as their healthcare practitioner.

When I was in Melbourne I worked for Ruth Trickey, a renowned Naturopath and Herbalist. Ruth’s clinic taught me so much in terms of individual treatment protocols and options for these couples. It also taught me about the real struggle that many couples have with infertility and the battle to conceive. When it comes to conception, there are so many links that need to fall in place; egg maturation, hormonal changes, sperm survival, fertilization, embryo development. Any weak links in the chain will cause failure to conceive - from that perspective, every baby really is a little miracle!!

With all of this in mind, preconception care is imperative for achieving optimal health and improving the chance of conception.

Generally, a Naturopath would like to work with the couple for 3-4 months prior to conception as it takes this long for egg and sperm maturation.

The idea is that during this time you are working on getting the egg and sperm to be as healthy as possible, as well as supplying the body with the nutrients that are required

for fertilization and successful implantation, resulting in a pregnancy.

Many studies have shown the importance of nutrition in increasing your chance of pregnancy. With this in mind, one of your Naturopath’s focus points will be on your diet and lifestyle, ensuring essential vitamins and minerals are being consumed and in the right amounts. Your preconception consultation will consist of both partners’ health being assessed and an individual treatment plan being established.

My priority in terms of treatment, is to determine the cause of pregnancy delay and then the possibility of overcoming this through specific Naturopathic treatments. In many cases this is possible, however a realistic approach needs to be taken, and I will happily refer to an appropriate area of care if required.

Pre-conception care offers better outcomes for a healthy baby, as well as providing the cornerstone of preventative care to ensure healthy adults!

For more information on preconception health, see the Hider Health & Vitality website for general health advice.

Sarah Porter is a qualified Naturopath, practicing at Hider Health & Vitality, Warrnambool. Sarah specialises in women’s and children’s health and is currently completing her Masters in Reproductive Medicine. www.hiderhealth.com.au

Breaking thE Silence THE SPEECH PATHOLOGIST WORKING WONDERS

B

RIGHT and bubbly, with an undeniable passion for her work, Sheree Bennett jokes that there’s not enough room on her name badge to define her role.

Perhaps ‘master of communication’ could be the most appropriate title for the 28-year-old adult speech therapist who’s just launched mobile consulting business, Sheree Bennett Speech Pathology.

“People hear the term speech therapy and automatically think kids with lisps and stutters,” said Sheree.

“It’s so much more than that. It’s also about cognition, which is thought and use of language.”

Sheree, who’s in Warrnambool after two years working in London with fiancé Liam Hammersley, said her time working abroad with complex hospital and community patients was profound.

“There’s a huge gap in the South West for adult speech therapy and I really want to apply my knowledge and help take the burden off the public waiting list,” she said.

Sheree’s clients often face communication challenges arising from naturally acquired speech impediments, head injury or stroke.

She helps them relearn how to use the muscles in their mouth

and throat to speak, communicate thoughts into words again and also to retrain their swallowing function.

Her real passion is giving a ‘voice’ to patients who suffer from conditions like Dementia, Motor Neuron Disease and Parkinson’s. She visits them at home, in aged care or palliative care; working closely with families and carers on life-changing strategies.

“I had a 32-year-old patient whose body was shutting down from a progressive neurological genetic condition,” reflected Sheree. “He was in his end stages of life and couldn’t eat or talk and his family was devastated. I found ways to help him communicate through hand squeezing and eye gazing. It was very comforting for him and his family.”

Sheree said the mobile business would make it easy for elderly patients or those with restricted mobility to pursue their speech therapy.

Being in the comfort of their natural environment also helps Sheree break the ice, speeding up results.

The flexibility of self-employment also means settling back into Warrnambool, where she can finally unpack her cake decorating gear and get reacquainted with her cat Simmy.

“My other love is baking,” she laughs. “And cats. Just call me the crazy cupcake cat lady.” southwest

23

CONGRATULATES From L to R: Ashlee Scott, Kim Griffith, Bec Elmes (with trophy), Chloe Jewell, Stephanie Hargreaves.

Winter fun is

child’s

play!

P

lanning is now well underway for Warrnambool’s annual Fun4Kids Festival – officially Australia’s best children’s festival.

Following the success of its 2015 festival, Fun4Kids took out a major national tourism award, being announced as winner of the 2015 Qantas Australian Tourism Award for Best Festival and Event at the industry’s gala dinner on 5 February this year.

Newly appointed Festival Director Kim Griffiths, who recently moved to Warrnambool from Queensland’s Fraser Coast, is heading up the small Fun4Kids team, overseeing the event as it moves into its 18th year.

24 southwest

Bringing with her a wealth of event management experience, Ms Griffith said she felt fortunate to be working alongside such a professional and talented team.

While they make it look like child’s play to the rest of us, the festival’s recent success comes down to hard work, dedication and plenty of passion. It’s no surprise that they are busily preparing for another stellar festival which is set to opens its doors on 26th June.

To bring it all together for 2016, the passion and dedication behind the scenes is literally written on the walls, with pin boards and whiteboards overflowing with Pinterest prints, creative concepts, stage programming and varieties of

festival layouts and activities.

Event marketing manager and busy mum of two, Ashlee Scott, described this year’s festival as an event full of “wholesome fun with something for everyone”.

“THE DEVELOPMENT OF

THE FESTIVAL PROGRAM IS TRULY A LABOUR OF LOVE AND IT’S A THRILL TO BE ABLE TO OFFER SUCH A DIVERSE BREADTH OF ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN,” she says. “We’re looking forward to being able provide opportunities for families to enjoy the experience together.”

The Fun4Kids festival has also been lauded as an important economic contributor to the region,

attracting around 20,000 patrons during the seasonal tourism lull. In 2015, the festival staged more than 80 live events and a broad array of kids’ activities across 17 activity zones all housed within a 2.5-acre ‘indoor village’.

“Warrnambool is extremely fortunate to have such a unique and highly regarded festival on its door step and it’s my role to ensure we maximise the benefits of this event so it delivers the desired outcomes to our region” says Griffith.

Fun4Kids is on 26 June to 2 July and tickets and program information can be found at fun4kids.com.au.

FOCUS

Our Regional Voice

the Great South Coast GROUP

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

Henry Ford

Written by Amy Gibson

I

n 2011, a group of local Councils, businesses, and community organisations came together to create a shared vision for the southwest region of Victoria, which led to the formation of the Great South Coast Group.

Executive Officer Karen Foster said collaboration in regional areas is essential in order to get funding from other levels of government.

“The power of collaboration means we are not limited by what one organisation, one local Council or one business can do. It’s about empowering all sectors of the community and giving them an opportunity to make their priorities heard,” Ms Foster said.

“We are developing a clearer sense of our identity and speak with a single voice on behalf of a large and diverse region.”

Warrnambool City, Colac Otway, Corangamite, Glenelg, Moyne and Southern Grampians are represented on the Board of Directors, together with four independent non-municipal directors.

Four pillar groups sit beneath the Board and their role is to identify, develop and nurture the projects or issues that are likely to impact upon the quality of life of residents in southwest Victoria.

Made up of more than 190 key

decision makers and experts, the Pillars meet on a regular basis and work towards implementation of the Great South Coast Strategic Plan.

The diversity and range of member organisations encourages a balanced approach to regional planning and increases the influence of the Great South Coast at all levels of government.

“It’s so important to continue to build our networks and combine our human capital - when like-minded industries and businesses come together, we can deliver better outcomes for our communities,” Ms Foster said.

“There are a number of ways you can make a difference, whether it’s at an administrative level or ‘grass roots’, developing and delivering programs and projects.”

“It’s important this group represents the wider community and we are always encouraging new members to get involved.”

Currently there are five priority projects which are the key focus of the Great South Coast’s activities - Beyond the Bell (education attainment), Shipwreck Coast Master Plan, including the 12 Apostles Trail, the Great South Coast Food and Fibre Action Plan, improving our regional roads and increasing passenger rail services.

Andrew Jeffers, NON-MUNICIPAL BOARD DIRECTOR OF GREAT SOUTH COAST GROUP

ANDREW JEFFERS BELIEVES THERE IS GREAT POWER AND ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES FOR REGIONS WHO WORK TOGETHER WITH A SHARED VISION. A strong advocate for collaboration, he sees his role as a Non-Municipal Board Director of the Great South Coast Group as an opportunity to contribute back to the region where he lives and works.

“There is a great benefit in acting as a group to ensure the outcomes are better for the region and everyone who lives in it,” he said.

“This collective contribution means the Great South Coast is better represented and has greater influence in terms of government funding and attracting investment from industry.”

Andrew has over 20 years’ experience in the water industry, including 15 years in senior management roles at Wannon Water and is currently the Managing Director.

“I have a good knowledge of the region from both a water perspective and also around major industries, and look forward to bringing that to the Great South Coast Group.”

Andrew says his involvement will also provide an opportunity to ensure Wannon Water’s plans and priorities are well aligned to the region’s needs.

southwest

25

Should auld

acquaintance be forgot

and never brought to mind

the

between us seas for auld lang syne O my

luve’s

While the sands

o life shall run

lass

my bonie

O

that’s newly

awake flowers

balmy O my Luve’s gales like a red the red rose O

Vengeful

Here sprung in June shy

Believe

moments weep catch

is a bottle and an honest friend then the as they

me happiness is

woes

fly

what

peace is there

the milder

sun

Sweet is shyHad I a cave early object of my on some distant shore Friendship! her blush youthful vows ‘tis all cold duty now allows

Once fondlyWho, distant,burns in flaming torrid climes

O my Luve’s like a red, red rose

ERIC BOGLE VIVIEN HAMILTON CHRIS DUNCAN & CATHERINE STRUTT DANNY SPOONER TALISKA TOLKA FIONA ROSS & BAND RODDY MACDONALD DR PETER HUGHES TUNIVERSAL MELBOURNE SCOTTISH FIDDLE CLUB DON GRIEVE & ANGELA PREISS PETER DAFFY & MORE...

GHILLIES GATHERING INSPIRED BY BURNS ART COMP PIPING SOLOS WHISKY TASTING HIGHLAND DANCING WORKSHOPS FAMILY CEILIDH BURNS LECTURES HERITAGE WALKS WEE STORIES COURT HOUSE CONCERTS DEER STALKERS DINNER SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING

FULL PROGRAM & TICKET DETAILS: WWW.CAMPERDOWNBURNSFESTIVAL.COM OR CORANGAMITE SHIRE 03 5593 7100 For accommodation enquiries: www.visit12apostles.com.au 1300 137 255

EVENTS

EVERY YEAR THE CAMPERDOWN COMMUNITY RISES FROM ITS SCOTTISH ROOTS FOR A TRADITIONAL GATHERING OF HAGGIS, WHISKEY AND MUSIC – JUST LIKE THEIR ANCESTORS ONCE DID ACROSS THE SEAS. The festival, now in its fifth year, oe-tapping Celtic was originally held to raise money tunes, bagpipes and for the restoration of the town’s the spoken word will historic statue of Robert Burns, also be the attraction which was created by sculptor John for hundreds of visitors from across Greenshields in Scotland in 1830. the region from May 20 to 22 for the Since then, lovers of all things annual Robert Burns Scottish Festival.

Scottish just keep journeying back, With music echoing through said Cr Gstrein. the streets and recitals of Burns’ “The quality of the performers renowned poetry and lyrics attracts so many people. stirring the crowds, the Being a local football/ town will morph into netball bye this year its own version of uality q e h we hope to get a lot T Brigadoon for one “ rs e m r o f r more people up from weekend. f the pe o y n Melbourne.”

Festival chair so ma attracts The headline and Corangamite .” people act will be the Shire Councillor witty and engaging Ruth Gstrein said the Scottish born singerTheatre Royal would songwriter Eric Bogle OAM. A be the main gathering place, stalwart attraction at most folk and with fringe events throughout country music festivals throughout the local taverns and community Australia, US and Europe, Bogle has hot-spots. been described as a ‘literate and “The Camperdown community thoughtful songwriter’ who ‘cuts to was settled by the Scottish and there the heart of the matter’. are still strong family links here today,” He’s best known for penning ‘The said Cr Gstrein. “The festival is great Band Played Waltzing Matilda’, as exposure for the Scottish culture and well as other iconic songs ‘No Man’s an opportunity to get together.”

Land’, ‘Leaving Nancy’, ‘Now I’m Robert Burns will hold court during the Easy’, ‘Shelter’ and ‘If Wishes Were festival, overlooking the Scottish revelry Fishes’. His tunes have been recorded from its safe place in the civic centre. by the likes of Slim Dusty, John “There will certainly be a lot of Williamson and The Furies. toe-tapping that weekend,” said Cr Also booked to perform are Gstrein. It’s pretty impossible to Chris Duncan and Catherine Strutt, sit still.” who are synonymous with the For tickets prices please visit highest of quality Scottish fiddle www.camperdownburnsfestival.com music in Australia.

Early Bird Ticket Packages are ‘Living national treasure’ folk available until April 15. singer Danny Spooner will have the crowds swaying and singing in unison, whilst band Taliska will have all ages on their feet with foottapping jigs and reels.

Also making the pilgrimage to the region’s growing event will be soprano Vivien Hamilton, Fiona Ross and Band, contemporary Melbourne band Tolka and the Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club.

Cr Gstrein said the Scottish • BANDS AT VARIOUS VENUES celebration would spread to • SONGS & STORIES AT THE STATUE all corners of the district, with • BAGPIPE WORKSHOPS a ‘satellite’ concert planned in • GOLF CLUB FAMILY DAY Darlington on the Thursday • ROBERT BURNS PANEL DEBATE night to give the public a taste of • DISPLAY AT HISTORICAL SOCIETY what to expect.

• SHORTBREAD BAKE-OFF “And, each morning of the • WHISKEY TASTING festival a Scottish piper will • DEER STALKERS’ DINNER play at the clock tower,” said Cr • ALL-AGES CÈILIDH (DANCE) Gstrein. “It’s enough to give you • FESTIVAL FINALE CONCERT goosebumps.”

The much-loved statue of southwest

27

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FOCUS

FEAST

From the

Jon Darcy and the staff at Piccolo Coffee Roasters

to the E.R What happens when an English sea-changer and an Aussie surfer put their heads together? Software that’s about to revolutionize the national health care system. an Tebbutt and Ben Druitt are the perfect example that for a new business idea to be released from the creative mind, it’s about connecting with the right person at the right time.

The independent computer software developers had a chance meeting a couple of years ago when they were both volunteering with the Port Fairy Coastal Group.

Both were working in health IT at the time. Ben had been pitching a software idea to the financial sector, but to no avail. A random conversation with Ian, who is well connected to health leaders through industry bench marker The Health Round Table, soon brought to light that Ian was the missing link.

“It’s all about timing,” said Ben. “And finding someone who really ‘gets’ your idea.”

As cohortIQ,the pair is developing a ‘Machine Learning Engine’ for hospitals that captures data from inpatients who regularly present with health issues attached to chronic illness, like diabetes and renal failure. This pattern recognition and computational learning theory transpires into artificial intelligence.

In other words, hospitals can grasp which patients would benefit from preventative health management in order to keep them out of the ER. The technology will also provide clear evidence for funding bodies to allocate cash for unique health services required by different communities.

“By tracking these groups of patients we can do some investigations into what support is available to help the chronically ill,” said Ian. “Hospitals are well designed for someone to come in, be treated, and then leave. “We believe our

solution has the potential to save around fifty thousand hospital visits per year.”

Recently, after a week-long intensive and exhaustive pitch process in Sydney against eight other finalists (from over 200 applications), cohortIQ won a $100,000 scholarship under the Federal Government’s Datastart – an initiative to support data driven innovation in Australia.

The guys, including third partner, Sydney based ‘product polisher’ John Bickerstaff, will be incubated from product concept to delivery as part of the nine-month Pollenizer Success Core Program. They’ll be supported by a team of business and IT experts like CSIRO and given access to Government data, customer discovery and technical support. They’ve also secured $200,000 in venture capital investment.

Months living in Sydney for English-born Ian means time away from his partner Max and their two girls Rianna (9) and Jess (5), but he’s very excited to know that when he returns, he’ll be further developing the product with South West Alliance of Rural Health.

“It’s easier to measure patients’ interaction with regional hospitals than in the city where patients may go to different hospitals. It’s a simpler place to start.”

For Ben, he’ll miss his partner Phuong-Dung and their two-yearold daughter Ymai. But as long as he can return to his beloved Port Fairy knowing he’s made the world a better place, he’ll be content.

“Never give up,” he said. “If you have a core idea, test it a couple of different ways and see how it goes.

Be open to change and be persistent.”

A

Roast Piccolo

Coffee couple of years ago, Jon Darcy was a selfemployed builder in Perth, who was dreaming of a life in the coffee industry.

Today he’s the owner of one of Warrnambool’s most loved coffee stores, Piccolo Coffee Roasters, and has totally immersed himself in the constantly evolving coffee culture.

“It’s learning the names,” said the former Cobden local. “As a builder you don’t meet many people on a job, but at the roastery I’ve been swamped with all these new faces. It’s been a challenge, but I’m getting better.”

Together with his wife Olivia, the young father of boys Monty (6), Jago (3) and new baby Ruben, has been enjoying the new experience of coffee roasting since purchasing the business several months ago after returning to the region from Western Australia.

Jon can’t totally explain the rationale behind his random career change, but says he was simply drawn to the energetic, social café culture.

“I was over building; I’d been doing for 15 years,” he said. “It was time for a change and when the option came up to buy Piccolo Coffee Roasters it seemed like a really good fit for me. It was the fact that it wasn’t just a café; the appealing aspect was they actually roasted their own coffee.”

Former owners Tim and Carmel Brady helped Jon take his first steps in the fine art of coffee bean roasting and, after a few months of practice, he engaged roasting guru Anne Cooper to take him to the next level.

Roasters

“ANNE IS LIKE THE GEORGE CALOMBARIS OF THE COFFEE ROASTING SCENE,” said Jon. “I was anxious to kick my skills along, then I heard about her. She came to the shop and we roasted for three days straight.”

Jon said he had a definite vision for the future look and vibe of Piccolo Coffee Roasters which is the only place in town that roasts its own coffee.

“Over time I’ll be working towards an urban, industrial feel for the roastery,” he said. “I want to create a specialty coffee experience for people from and visiting the South West.”

Jon said he roasted Rainforest Alliance blends, yet looked forward to exploring other coffee bean options, including organic, fair trade and going forward looking at direct trade with the farmer.

“It’s interesting the amount of people who go to the effort of grinding their own coffee at home. We enjoy sharing the experience with coffee lovers and look forward to giving our customers a really good selection.”

Jon might have hit the ground running with his own roastery, but he’s excited about the lifestyle benefits it will bring once things “settle down”, like sneaking off to school events and cuddles with the impending baby.

As father to a newborn, surely he’ll need to catch the coffee train himself?

“Yep, I’m on the coffee,” he said.

“Ristretto. The only way to truly taste what it’s like. When it’s roasted right you shouldn’t need anything else.” southwest

29

Michael Barling

FEAST

Finding the

Your local Labor candidate

Right IngredientS

For more information about your local Australian Labor Party visit our website

www.laborsouthwest.org.

Search “Michael Barling - candidate for Wannon” on Facebook and Twitter.

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30 southwest

A

REAL PEOPLE AND REAL FOOD. THE TWO MAIN INGREDIENTS FOR SIMON’S REVIVAL TO CAFÉ AND BAR.

slowly but surely refurbished the spacious eatery FTER pouring their heart and soul into into a contemporary beach themed café/bar, the business, the crew at Simon’s feel complete with comfy couches and fireplace. This like they’re finally in a good place. homely feel extends out onto the decking area When you visit the family owned café/bar you where they’ve built day beds from wooden crates feel like you’re popping into someone’s home for and added some beach umbrellas. a hearty feed or a wine. Especially when you see They said the huge support from locals and Simon and Rose Kettyle’s blonde pocket rocket visitors has kept them energized and enthusiastic.

Maebh, 4, skipping along the promenade inviting For that, they are very thankful. guests inside.

“It’s a place for everyone to come and relax,” “When we bought the business we had Gus said Rose. “Whether you’re here for breakfast, (now 7),” said Rose. “Then we had Nenagh and lunch, a coffee or a relaxing wine out on the deck Maebh. Three kids under three and taking on a to watch the sunset, people just come as restaurant. They’ve literally grown up they are. At night time, we still offer here. Everyone knows them.” that special dining experience Family means everything to E C A L P thanks to the spotlight still offering these former police members.

IT’S A “ a beach view.”

Rose is originally from RYONE E V E

Just like the café’s aesthetics, Warrnambool and met Simon R FO D N the menu has been a work in in the force while posted in A ME progress. Simon reckons they’ve Melbourne. Once their first TO CO .” found a sweet spot with that too, child came along, they felt it RELAX along with the selection of Little was time to return to Rose’s roots Creatures tap beers. for some family support.

“Our chef Amol Mander has had a big Not long after their sea change, Simon influence stepping up the menu,” he said. “He noticed the tender up for grabs at the surf doesn’t cut corners and it’s just stripped back, lifesaving club precinct. real food. We source lots of ingredients locally.

“I’ve always wanted a restaurant,” said Simon, Our seafood chowder is still our signature dish who studied for a time at William Anglis. “We and the burger sliders are something that I’ve took one look at the ocean view and knew that it always wanted on the menu.” was a very special location.”

The staff at Simon’s are also like family to Rose It was a huge change for the couple and they and Simon; the kind of passionate workers you humbly admit they made many mistakes along can trust to run your business while you tend to the way. the needs of a young, busy family. They’ve played “We have learnt from our mistakes and hope an integral part in its growth, including the spike that everyone now enjoys everything that we in special occasions like weddings. offer,” said Rose.

It certainly must be a good gig working at They both feel they are stronger personally and, the ocean fronted eatery, because when Maebh in business, “have finally found their ideal place.” grows up she “wants to work at Simon’s.”

With the support of family and friends, they have

HABITAT

S

BY DANNY HARRIS - HARRIS & WOOD REAL ESTATE

ELLING A BUSINESS CAN BE A CHALLENGING TASK and a process that is not so familiar as, for example, selling

a property. Given that the majority of businesses that go to market are unable to sell, there are a number of factors to consider to give yourself the best chance of achieving a sale.

1

SELL AT THE RIGHT TIME FOR THE RIGHT REASONS

Common reasons for selling a business are the owner becoming tired or falling ill or profits are waning – the worst time to be selling a business.

Don’t wait until then. The right time is when you are profitable and healthy and simply seeking a different lifestyle or opportunity.

2

DECIDE WHETHER TO USE PROFESSIONALS

Consider using a reputable business broker or other professional to sell your business. The process can be time consuming and complicated. Business brokers are professionals who specialise in buying and selling businesses and provide a very different service to real estate agents. Having a good solicitor and accountant on your “business sales team” is also important.

Danny Harris

3

MAKE SURE YOUR HOUSE IS IN ORDER

When you’re selling a business, you need to be especially careful not to let things slide.

Presentation and making that little extra effort can really pay off. If you were selling your house, you would want it to be presented in the best possible light. The same is true for a business. It’s also important to start preparing your financials at least a year, preferably two, prior to putting your business on the market.

4

HOW MUCH IS IT WORTH?

There are several formulas you can use, with no single one providing a perfect technique. Asset valuation, earnings multiple and capitalised future earnings (the rights to all future profits the business might generate) are common methods depending on the business being sold. Whatever valuation method you use, you should also look at comparable sales for recent sales of similar businesses. A good business broker should have access to such sales through a database or other brokers throughout Australia.

SO

LD

COMMERCIAL

“Danny recently sold our business in Port Campbell. We had decided

to retire and contacted a Melbourne based broker. The experience yielded us average service with no result. We hadn’t realised that Danny offered this service.

We found Danny’s local knowledge, persistence and expertise gave us an advantage when we finally employed him to sell. And we got sold! We would recommend him to anyone that requires a business broker in the South West.”

- Murray & Cathy Joiner

Contact Danny today!

View Phone Email Visit

www.harriswood.com.au (03) 5561 2228 sales@harriswood.com.au 80-82 Liebig Street, Warrnambool, Victoria 3280

southwest

31

FOCUS

HABITAT

Who Michael is

Barling

T

HE BARLING FAMILY is big on the importance of education. And none moreso than Michael Barling.

As a member of the Independent Education Union for 18 years, a subbranch representative at Emmanuel College and member of the Australian Education Union, Michael is proud to pin his colours to the mast.

Access to education and employment, he says, are the most important factors enabling individuals to achieve their full potential.

It’s a view that was first cemented during his time as a youth worker in New South Wales.

Born and raised in Warrnambool, Michael’s own career path was not exactly linear.

He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army in 1982, serving at posts in Townsville, Sydney and the Portsea Officer Training School. Whilst in the army he moved through the ranks to Infantry Platoon Commander at the Royal Australian Regiment.

It was in Sydney that Michael first discovered his passion for youth work.

In 1990, he returned to his home turf to live in Woodford, just north of Warrnambool, with his teacher wife, Cathy. Their three now-adult children are employed within education.

By this stage, Michael was clear that education would be his future focus. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts with majors in Economics and History and a minor in Politics at Deakin Unversity, later completing a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education.

In 2004, he added to his lengthy 32 southwest

education credentials with a Diploma of Education Studies (Student Welfare).

In 1996, Michael took up a position at Emmanuel College, where he remained for 18 years teaching everything from history and psychology to business management, politics and outdoor education.

Michael is currently employed as a teacher at both Brauer and Warrnambool Colleges where he is working on the development of a student wellbeing program, A Big Life, in conjunction with the Warrnambool Student Wellbeing Association. He has maintained his passion for youth work throughout this time, actively working in the community supporting young people.

Heavily invested in the local community, Michael served on the Woodford Primary School Council and was active in the fight to keep the school open in 1993/94.

He is also a member of the North Warrnambool Eagles Football and Netball Club where his sons played football, occasionally helping out as an umpire for the junior teams.

An avid runner, Michael completed four marathons before turning to kayaking, swimming and walking to give his knees a rest. He has since completed a number of ocean swims and the kayak leg of an adventure race.

Adding to this extensive list of extracurricular activities, Michael has been a long time member of the Australian Labor Party, and ran as the ALP candidate for the federal seat of Wannon in March 2013, and has been preselected for Wannon again in 2016.

HOW TO ADD VALUE AND NOT

BREAK THE BANK!

y p r o T s u g r e with F

IT’S A QUESTION WE ALL ASK: HOW DO WE ADD IMMEDIATE VALUE TO OUR HOME PRIOR TO SALE? Going by historical statistics, real estate naturally improves in value over time. However, swinging the dollars in your favour sooner rather than later is something we all desire.

Presentation -

Painting -

This costs nothing. Presenting your home by decluttering, ensuring all light fittings & lamps are working and turned on. Heating or cooling turned on depending on the weather.

Ensuring things look simple, elegant and tasteful. This will take time but will attract the right buyer more easily.

Painting can be time consuming but is something that with a bit of practice and the right research we can all tend to. Be sure to remove marks and repaint walls that make rooms look dark. Neutral colour schemes are in.

Gardening Gardening does take time, blood, sweat and tears but can be a rewarding pain. Take the time to clean out the garden, re-mulch and replant. Make sure you remove all excess waste and keep the lawns tidy.

Repairs Repair any damages around the property. Ensure appliances are in working order, taps aren’t leaking, doors & windows are opening and closing, spouts are clear and general repairs are carried out.

Getting your house ready for sale will be more rewarding by taking the time rather than breaking the bank. It could take a couple of weeks but the time spent will be money left in your pocket and not wasted.

O2MEDIA PRESENTS

BIZFEST

CALLING LOCAL BUSINESS EXPERTS

Myers Planning Group is a Warrnambool based consultancy that specialises in town planning

We’re on the hunt for clever and talented people to deliver hour long skills workshops at o2 BizFest 2016 on Monday 8 August.

We are looking for high value content for business and professional people in southwest Victoria, in the following areas: • Leadership • Creating systems in business • Boosting productivity

• • • •

Marketing Sales Business management Personal styling

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services across south-west Victoria.

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Fergus Torpy - Sales & Marketing Consultant/Auctioneer One of Warrnambool’s leading Real Estate Agents at the age of 25, Fergus strives to deliver premium results utilising the latest in marketing technologies, communication platforms and service.

With 63 property transactions in 2015 and an average of 53 days to sell, you can be assured of an unprecedented level of communication.

Are you looking to explore your property’s marketing options contact Fergus today on 0428 627 161.

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Invest in energy when selling your biggest asset.

Unlock the value of your property.

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Ray White Warrnambool southwest

33

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34 southwest

BALANCE

WHAT IS a “YOU SHOULD BECOME A LIFE COACH,” a friend told me. I didn’t know what that was, so I did some research, and thus began my initial 4-year journey of returning to study.

The diploma of life coaching “official blurb” for life coach is this: Life Coaching is about assisting a client in closing the gap between where they are and where they want to be. It’s about working with someone who wants to achieve more in their life. With a qualified life coach, they can discover what’s important to them, what’s missing in their life or business, and what outcomes they’re looking for. A coach asks questions, listens, reflects and challenges a client’s thinking in a way that enables them to discover new ways to create the transformation they’re seeking. I stress qualified life coach because it’s important for a client’s wellbeing and outcomes that their coach is professionally trained.

The parallel between a sports coach and a life

Life Coach?

coach is that when a sportsperson wants to improve their game, a professional coach helps the athlete reach their goal, so they hire a coach. In life it’s often the same: at some point we all need help.

Personally, I specialize in assisting women create a lifestyle that’s important to them. Many simply soldier through life and don’t have time for themselves, often losing a sense of who they are, and what their purpose is. They feel like it’s never about them, and it’s all about everyone else. This leaves them with nothing in the tank at the end of each day to give to themselves or loved ones. They need help to de-stress, de-clutter, and discover the ideal lifestyle for them.

Karina is a Life Coach with a Dip of Life Coaching, a NLP Practitioner and a Public Speaker. She runs Transformational Retreats, Hands On Workshops and 1:1 Life Coaching. www.karinahogan.com.au. This is part one of a three part series in which Karina explores and shares the benefits creating a lifestyle that's right for you.

HABITAT John and Sandra O’Flaherty

Renovation Relief NO SLIP-UPS IN BATHROOM MODIFICATION WITH BRYAN AND PETERSEN Sandra O’Flaherty wasn’t overly keen on the potential disruption of her bathroom renovation this year.

Even with her husband John “safely tucked away” in respite care at Lyndoch Living, Sandra felt anxious about having to face what she predicted would be “intruders in the house”, in addition to dust and demolition.

“I didn’t really want to deal with it

alone, but there was no stress; it was very plain sailing,” said the relieved customer of Bryan & Petersen (B&P) Insurance Repairs and Joinery. “They had two weeks to do the job whilst John was in respite care and they made it happen.”

After an occupational therapist from Lyndoch Living assessed the existing toilet and laundry of their Warrnambool home, it was clear that a renovation would be required to

assist with John’s restricted mobility, stemming from a range of health complications.

“We needed to do something to make it easier on John,” said Sandra.

“It was hard for him to get in and out of the shower so we had an occupational therapist check things out and then an architect made up some plans. They decided the best thing was to take out the wall from the laundry - which was next to the bathroom - and combine them into one big wet room.”

Warrnambool based Bryan and Petersen “delivered the best quote” and the toilet modification project was soon underway. B&P handpicked a team consisting of a highly skilled local carpenter, plumber, painter and electrician to tackle the project. They knocked out the wall, rearranged the toilet and installed a wider, easy access shower with handrails. The room was completed with easy-to-clean non-slip vinyl floor coverings and a fresh lick of paint.

“THEY WERE MARVELOUS,” SAID SANDRA. “THE TRADESMEN COULDN’T HAVE BEEN MORE POLITE OR COURTEOUS. It was a fairly big job but they did it really well. The time management was just wonderful; they had everything so well planned. I’d recommend B&P to anyone; they are the ‘real deal’.”

Sandra said B&P director Mark

Edney visited the work site almost daily to make sure everything was on track.

He helped Sandra choose the paint colors and even organized a portable ensuite on-site for her convenience during the construction period.

“They really care about their

customers’ comfort and I couldn’t believe how clean the workers were; there was never a mess,” said Sandra.

“John’s just rapt with the changes

– so is his carer who comes to help shower him every day. He thinks the extra space is just great and I actually like having a lovely big laundry.”

8 BRAITHWAITE STREET, WARRNAMBOOL, VIC 3280 WWW.BRYANPETERSENINSURANCE.COM.AU southwest

35

BUZZ

DIARY

WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE SOUTHWEST? GET ALL THE BUZZ HERE!

Tackling childhood obesity in our region A new $3.9 million, community-wide approach to improve the health of children and tackle child obesity has been launched across the Great South Coast.

The ‘Whole of Systems Trial of Prevention Strategies for childhood obesity: WHO STOPS childhood obesity”, is a major partnership project to be led by Deakin University health researchers.

WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention Director Professor Steven Allender said the project aimed to increase the capacity of community leaders to use systems thinking for community-wide obesity prevention.

He said it would focus on developing community-built action plans involving parents, leaders from local government, education, clubs, agencies and business who could influence environments where children experienced the key risk factors for obesity.

Commerce Warrnambool reforms After an 18-month hiatus, Commerce Warrnambool has reformed under new management.

New President Karen Foster said the new committee had determined that it needed to spend some time regrouping and exploring its purpose.

“We want to be a considered and measured voice for business and commerce in our city,” Ms Foster said.

“So we’ve decided to invest time in going right back to basics to get a clear sense about what our purpose is and how we can add most value.”

Membership enquiries are welcome at any time, email commercewarrnambool@gmail.com.au.

Glenelg Shire’s artful year

THURSDAY 14 APRIL, 9AM-4.30PM VECCI MANAGING TERMINATIONS, UNFAIR DISMISSAL AND REDUNDANCY

Glenelg Shire has unveiled a year of performances, workshops and exhibitions with the launch of its 2016 Arts Program.

The program includes 30 performances, 13 exhibitions and 16 hands-on community arts workshops.

The arts program brochure is available at Glenelg Shire Customer Service centres in Portland, Casterton and Heywood. Details are also available at www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/arts _culture.

Venue: Deakin University Warrnambool City Centre, Timor Street, Warrnambool

Call for business experts Expressions of Interest are now open from people or organisations intereseted in facilitating workshops at the 2016 o2 Media BizFest.

Event organiser Liz Fowler said the BizFest program included a series of skills workshops, each delivered by a specialist in that field.

“Workshop topics are really diverse, ranging from marketing and customer service through to work/life balance, HR issues and managing business finances.”

Expressions of interest should be emailed to liz@o2media.com.au.

BizFest will be held at Warrnambool’s Lighthouse Theatre on Monday 8 August, 2016.

Balance workshops and retreats Karina Hogan, a Life Coach based out of Portland, has put together a series of workshops and retreats for those looking to put themselves back in the driver’s seat of life. See BizDiary for more dates. www.karinahogan.com.au Lifeskills Workshop: Sunday 1st May 2016.

Limited spaces Transformation Pamper Retreat: July 15-17th.

Limited spaces

Bookings: http://www.vecci.org.au/businesssolutions/training/short-courses/humanresources-and-workplace-relations/twrmt1601 FRIDAY 15 APRIL, 6-8PM BUSINESS IN HEELS – SOUTH WEST VICTORIA Victorian Dance Festival Welcome Cocktail Event and presentation on networking tips from Business in Heels Branch Director Bron Levett and Business in Heels Director Jo Plummer.

Venue: Warrnambool Lighthouse Theatre Bookings: www.businessinheels.com SUNDAY 1 MAY, 10AM-12NOON MOTHERLESS DAUGHTERS MOTHERS DAY CELEBRATION An initiative of Hope Edelman, US author of the book Motherless Daughters, this morning tea is open to women to reminisce, remember and celebrate their journey as motherless daughters.

Venue: Club Warrnambool, Kepler Street, Warrnambool Bookings: www.trybooking.com/188465 FRIDAY 6 MAY, 12NOON-2PM AICD GREAT SOUTH COAST LEADERS’ LUNCHEON - BIG ISSUES FOR BOARDS AND DIRECTORS IN 2016 Venue: Lady Bay Resort, 2 Pertobe Road, Warrnambool Bookings: www.companydirectors.com.au SUNDAY 29 MAY, 4PM FREE MONTHLY GOAL SETTING SUPPORT GROUP – INTENTION SEEKERS Venue: Isabella’s Lighthouse Café, Cape Nelson Road, Portland Contact: info@karinahogan.com.au

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COMMUNITY

POWERCOR’S

TOUR DE DEPOT YOUNG PEOPLE AT RISK OF DISENGAGING FROM SCHOOL WILL GET A LEG UP WITH THE HELP OF A MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENT THIS YEAR.

W

hether you are a seasoned cyclist or still rely on your training wheels, Powercor’s Tour de Depot ride around Warrnambool’s Lake Pertobe is your local, much shorter and more achievable answer to the Tour de France, complete with local charity partner and World Champion celebrity guest.

The popular ride - designed for cyclists of all ages and abilities - is back on April 10 offering a leisurely 5-10km ride, or a 20km timed event for the more serious contenders wanting to take on five-time Olympian and World Champion cyclist, Shane Kelly OAM, who will

be riding in support of local charity, Standing Tall.

Following the success of last year, Powercor is delighted to name Standing Tall as the official 2016 community partner for the event.

Powercor Regional Business Manager Nick Rees said this year’s event will be a great opportunity to enjoy a fun outing for the whole family and give back to an important local charity.

“Last year’s Warrnambool Powercor Tour de Depot was a resounding success,” he said, “raising $50,000 for local charity Warrnambool & District Food Share.

“We are pleased to be in a position to donate 100 per cent of entry fees

WARRNAMBOOL

to Standing Tall in 2016. We hope the program will see the school that raises Powercor Tour de Depot will excite the most funds and the school that the local community and assist a has the highest number of registered great organisation to raise funds to participants claim from a prize pool of support local students in need.” up to $5000.

Standing Tall is an early intervention The Tour de Depot is also program that identifies, trains partnering with charity fundraising and supports community website gofundraise.com.au, members to become encouraging riders to take ased mentors to young le p their contribution to the e r “We a school students to n io next level by creating a posit at risk of to be in f o and promoting their t n e c disengaging from 00 per 1 te a own fundraising page, n do nding ta the opportunities S to s with an aim to raise e entry fe offered to them. .”

6 1 additional funds for 0 2 Tall in Olympic Standing Tall. medalist Shane Kelly The ride will begin and said he is grateful to have conclude at Lake Pertobe with the opportunity to give back to the cyclists completing one, two or fours region that played such an important laps of the lake. Riders and spectators role in his early life and career. alike will also be able to enjoy a “Standing Tall is a very important community festival complete with organisation for local youth and I’m amusement rides, face painting, market thrilled to be a part of this year’s stalls, and a well-deserving sausage Powercor Tour de Depot, which will sizzle waiting at the finish line. help provide much needed funds and The 20km timed race for more awareness for the cause,” Kelly said. experienced riders will also include a “Cycling is a great way to bring $500 cash prize each for the fastest family, friends and the community male and female to cross the finish line. together and I’m really looking For those riders participating forward to hitting the track with the in the timed event, their families Warrnambool community.” will also gain free entry into the In addition to Standing Tall, Mr community participation ride.

Rees says they are thrilled to be To register or for more supporting local schools this year information, visit through their new initiative, the Schools Incentive Program. The www.powercortourdedepot.com.au

Enjoy a day of cycling and community spirit with family and friends.

Come and join us with event ambassador Olympic cyclist Shane Kelly and MC Matty Monk - the event includes a time trial, community ride, and FREE festival with carnival rides, market stalls, local entertainment, sausage sizzle and much more.

SUNDAY 10 APRIL 2016

Community Festival 9am - 3pm entertainment for the whole family!

100% of proceeds go to our charity partner, Standing Tall.

Register now: www.tourdedepot.com.au

$500 cash to fastest male & female time trial winners

southwest

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BALANCE

the W

RKING FAMILY with Chris Allsop

I used to love the feel of clean clothes in the morning.

The pre-work confidence that came with them would always put some extra pep in my step before I walked out the door. But now? Now I’m happy if they don’t have hand-shaped Weetbix stains on them by the time I get to work.

S

itting at the table one morning a few weeks ago, the boys and I discussed which breakfast cereal was the best.

Hamish, my five-year-old, declared cornflakes to be the winner. When we looked to his younger brother for his thoughts on the matter, the two-yearold shoved a Nutrigrain up his nostril and grinned like he’d just won the X-Factor. It looked like the Cereal of the Week would indeed be cornflakes, right up until it was discovered that if you sneezed then a previously snorted nutrigrain becomes a pretty decent missile. No more questions asked (but several missiles fired) and Nutrigrain took home the trophy.

Sadly for me, that first 4 Health Stars approved source of protein and fibre* hit me bang on the left breast of

SAVE THE DATE

my shirt and stuck there. I grimaced but figured I could flick it off with relative ease. Not so. Apparently a piece of Nutrigrain that has been forcefully propelled out of a snotty nose has the same consistency as a soggy Weetbix.

Half of it smeared where it had landed while the other half sprayed across the rest of my shirt.

After a joint effort at scrubbing it off, my wife and I realised we were at that break even point where if the kids weren’t halfway dressed then we’d both be late for work. We each picked a kid, ran to their bedrooms and found some clean (or at least sniff tested) clothes, dressed them and started for the door.

“Dada,” said Alfie (the serial cereal snorter). “I want toast.” No. “Dada, I want toast.” No. “Dada, I WANT toast.” No. “DADA I WANT TOAST!”

Monday 8 August, 2016 8.30am – 6.30pm

38 southwest

He hit the ground faster than a wounded soccer player. I quickly made some Vegemite toast but apparently triangles weren’t in fashion that day so he tossed them back at me.

One piece hit my suit jacket on the shoulder and left a big brownish black mark. I furiously scrubbed it off, stuck an apple in his hand and dragged him kicking and eating to the car.

After dropping Alfie at child care, we headed to Hamish’s school. This part of the routine is usually quite simple but on this particular day he had something to tell me. I dropped to one knee on the grass, felt it soak in and instantly regretted it, but still dutifully listened as Hamish explained that female lions are not

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“lionesses” but are, in fact, “lions’ betters”. (I’m always impressed by the feminist movement.) After many hugs, farewells, kisses and reassurances that yes, Nutrigrain would still be available for breakfast tomorrow, my wife and I made it to work. When I sat down I assessed the smeared and flicked cereal, the tossed toast and the grass stain on my knee. There was significant mess but it was at that point I realised something: I didn’t need an excuse for having messy clothes. I have kids. And I know Brian in Accounts does too because he has a Weetbix handprint on his back. * This column is in no way associated with or sponsored by Nutrigrain. It’s just a damn tasty snortable cereal.

FEATURING Emma Welsh & Tom Griffith, Emma & Tom’s juices.

Emma voted one of the top nine influential female entrepreneurs of 2016!

TAFE

CUTTING EDGE ACADEMY

OPENS AT SOUTH WEST TAFE

BUDDING BEAUTY THERAPISTS AND HAIR STYLISTS CAN NOW STUDY THEIR DREAM PROFESSION AT A BRAND NEW ACADEMY, WHICH HAS OPENED AT SOUTH WEST TAFE. to increase by 25 per cent over the Hair, beauty and massage have all next five years. come together under one roof in the “South West TAFE already has rebranded ‘PURE Hair, Beauty and a strong reputation in the hair and Wellness Academy’, situated in the beauty field and our new, fully former Verde Hair building on Merri equipped teaching salons – with Street in Warrnambool. a bigger focus on wellbeing - will The revamped, state-of-the-art not only deliver the very salon is fitted with the latest best training to our cutting-edge equipment students, it will as used by today’s O S AL WE’RE S B O J meet the needs savvy hair and beauty AT ARE TH STRY W A of this rapidly leaders, plus a INDU IN THE D TO E T growing centralised reception C E P ARE EX BY 25 PER industry.” area and private E S INCREA VER THE Ms McCarthy spaces dedicated to CENT O YEARS. E IV said having all each discipline.

NEXT F training under Director of Business, one roof – rather Design and Personal Services than the beauty and massage Marcia McCarthy said experienced operating separately - would enable professionals in the trade had participants to seamlessly move provided valuable input into the between courses. They’ll also have future direction of hair and beauty the opportunity to learn about the offerings at South West TAFE, business aspects of running a salon, including the academy fit-out. giving them an operational edge “Consultation with the beauty when it came to applying for jobs. sector revealed to us that last year She also revealed that Pure Australians spent around $3 billion Academy’s expanding team of on beauty and spa treatments,” said instructors are all working hair and Ms McCarthy. “We’re also aware beauty professionals who are able that jobs in the industry are expected

“

”

to mentor students in the latest industry practices and techniques.

And, South West TAFE’s longstanding reputation in tertiary hair and beauty meant that leading brands would also readily provide training to keep students, including those upskilling, abreast of emerging industry trends.

“These high profile companies have years of experience supporting students on their learning journey and, alongside our local contacts, this expertise will strongly position graduates when launching their career,” said Ms McCarthy.

“That’s the ultimate aim of Pure Academy: to provide the highest quality learning environment that gives students the hands-on experience they need to be job- ready from the day they graduate.

To support local industry we also offer quality training for apprentices and trainees.”

More than 180 students of various ages are expected to follow their passion at Pure Academy in 2016, undertaking a whole new range of certificates, diplomas and short courses covering different hair and beauty and massage qualifications.

Some courses commence in April and are available for immediate enrolment, with many other courses offering ongoing enrolments. For further information or to enrol, please contact South West TAFE on 1300 648 911 or visit pureacademy.com.au.

HAIR • CERTIFICATE II IN HAIRDRESSING • CERTIFICATE III IN HAIRDRESSING

BEAUTY • CERTIFICATE II IN RETAIL MAKE-UP AND SKINCARE • CERTIFICATE II IN NAIL TECHNOLOGY* • CERTIFICATE III IN BEAUTY SERVICES* • CERTIFICATE IV IN BEAUTY THERAPY • DIPLOMA OF BEAUTY THERAPY*

WELLNESS • CERTIFICATE IV IN MASSAGE THERAPY PRACTICE

SHORT COURSES • DESIGN & APPLY MAKE-UP* • PERFORM WAXING TREATMENTS* • PROFESSIONAL LASH TINTING & BROW TREATMENTS *Enrol now for April 2016 start. southwest

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*ENROL NOW

COURSES START IN APRIL

We’ve had a total make-over.

And we’ve never looked better.

Come and see for yourself.

We’ve got a new name, new facilities and new hair, beauty & massage salons.

If you want to get started in this vibrant and growing industry, come and check us out.

It’s your chance to explore our courses, familiarise yourself with our exceptional academy, gather information and enrol for 2016.

HAIR

BEAUTY

SHORT COURSES

• SIH20111 Certificate II in Hairdressing* ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN • SIH30111 Certificate III in Hairdressing*

• SIB20110 Certificate II in Retail Make-up and

• Design & Apply Make-up • Perform Waxing • Professional Lash Tinting & Brow Treatments

ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN

WELLNESS • HLT40312 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy Practice

Skincare • SIB20210 Certificate II in Nail Technology* ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN • SIB30110 Certificate III in Beauty Services* ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN • SIB40110 Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy • SIB50110 Diploma of Beauty Therapy* ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN

www.pureacademy.com.au | 1300 648 911 RTO:3120