Coffs Harbour Regional Airport Magazine - Issue 47

COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT Gateway to the Coffs Coast Issue 47 • www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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IS COMING TO COFFS!

Nambucca Valley Canoe Trails

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4/165 Grand Boulevard, Joondalup, WA. Tel: 9301 5880 (all hours) www.thediamondclub.com.au

COVER: From left to right; Craig Spencer, Dennis Martin (Airport Manager), Kevin Hartley and Rob Norton (all three from FM Glenn Constructions).

contents 04 WELCOME

PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott

06 GOING FOR GOLD

patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au

08 WHAT’S ON

EDITOR Aly Marshall

10 COMPETITIONS & WINNERS

aly@ttmediagroup.com.au

12 BUSKERS &

COMEDY FESTIVAL

14 PADDLING PARADISE 17 PUZZLE PAGE 18 FILL ‘ER UP! 21 JOIN THE FUTURE 24 ELTON JOHN

ON COFFS COAST

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06

melissa@ttmediagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING & ENQUIRIES REGIONAL SKIES MAGAZINE COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT MAGAZINE SKIPPERS INFLIGHT MAGAZINE [WA] MARINE PUBLICATIONS

27 BOOK NOOK

THE TRADIE MAGAZINE

28 ESKIMO JOE 30 STAY HEALTHY THIS SPRING

DESIGN Melissa Hanwright

14

SALES Brian Hartley brian@ttmediagroup.com.au

PRINTING www.printcraft.com.au

Coffs Harbour Airport Magazine is published quarterly by Trans Tasman Media. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements.

Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement. Neither the publisher nor the editor accepts responsibility for advertisements.

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Ph (07) 3891 7793 • Fax (07) 3891 7702 PO Box 670, Stones Corner, Qld 4120

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Welcome to Issue 47 of Coffs Harbour Airport Magazine In this issue we recognise two businesses that have supported the airport over many years, World Fuel Services (formerly Mobil Aviation) and FM Glenn Constructions.

For three decades World Fuel has been supplying fuel for general aviation aircraft as well as major carriers. FM Glenn’s founder Max Glenn and his family has a long history of involvement with construction and refurbishments at the airport dating back to 1958 to the present day. These stories can be found on pages 18 and 6 respectively.

Another event that is generating excitement for music fans is the Elton John concerts scheduled for 25 and 26 February next year. This will be staged at the newly expanded and refurbished C.ex Coffs International Stadium. This is Elton John’s farewell tour before he retires so be sure not to miss it. Details are on pages 24, 25 and 26.

We also profile the work in progress at the Health Sciences Building and the courses that will soon be on offer at the Coffs Harbour campus of Southern Cross University. For those already in the allied health industry or anyone wishing to start a career in the health sector, this new facility will be the catalyst for many job opportunities. Turn to pages 21, 22 and 23 where you will learn more.

If you are an outdoor enthusiast with a passion for kayaking and canoeing, the new Nambucca Canoe Trails adventures are for you. With a variety of locations and outings from an hour to all day, this could be your new on-water playground. Start your exploration of the Nambucca on page 14.

And as winter turns to spring, I wish you the best for travels near and far and a safe return home to Coffs Coast.

Dennis Martin OAM Airport Manager

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FM Glenn CONSTRUCTIONS

I

n 1980, sports broadcaster Norman (Nugget) May famously called “ Gold, gold for Australia, gold” when the Australian men’s 4 x 100 metres medley relay team of Mark Kerry, Peter Evans, Mark Tonelli and Neil Brooks won the final at the Moscow Olympics.

If he was still with us and called the recent Master Builders Awards (Northern Region) it would have been gold, gold, gold for FM Glenn Constructions. The company won three awards from three entries in the categories; Retail / Residential ($1 to $3 million), Medium Density Projects (over $10 million) and Commercial Project Extensions, Renovations and Refurbishments (under $2.5 million) which was for the refurbishment and extensions at Coffs Harbour Airport.

FM Glenn Constructions manager Rob Norton said, “The airport project was a new experience for the team as the works had to be carried out without disrupting to normal airline services to and from Coffs Harbour”.

The tasks inside the terminal included; extensions and refurbishment of the Qantas Lounge, building the new meeting room, offices, toilets, cafe and installing a new baggage carousel in the arrivals hall. Outside, covered walkways were extended at the vehicle set-down and pick-up area as well as airside into the arrivals hall.

Going for Gold With careful planning and coordination of staff and materials this was successfully completed. The most challenging element of this project according to Rob Norton was the complete retiling of the 1700 square metres of the terminal floor. So rather than a regular 7am to 4pm work day, the project became nocturnal. Each evening after the last flight had arrived, passengers disembarked and departed and airport staff retired for the day, the FM Glenn team started. This required the existing tiles to be ground level, primed, sealed then new tiles overlayed and fixed into place. A mammoth task which could not be done in one go. So the floor area was divided up much like a jigsaw puzzle and each evening after the airport was vacated, each section of floor was carefully replaced, cleaned and made ready before airport staff, air crew and passengers arrived for the 6.30am flight to Sydney. This process took three to four weeks to complete.

Another aspect of the job that was different to other projects was having to pass a security check every time personnel, equipment and materials were to access the secure departures area of the terminal. FM Glenn staff and sub-contractors had to remove their steel capped boots, waist belts and have tool bags inspected and x-rayed for clearance. And the building materials had to be similarly screened before gaining access to the terminal work areas. However, this did not stop the project being completed on time and on budget.

Coffs Harbour Airport manager, Dennis Martin said, “The management and staff of FM Glenn Constructions and their sub-contractors did an outstanding job refurbishing and extending the terminal while minimising disruptions to customer comfort and airline operations”.

Dennis Martin & Max Glenn

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This is, perhaps, not unexpected as the business has been successfully operating since its founder, Max Glenn after 36 years as an employee for builders A J Hayter, King and Lightfoot and R & B Constructions started FM Glenn Pty Ltd, building and project management company in 1979.

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Between then and now the company has passed from Max to his son Wayne Glenn, who sadly passed away in 2014, and now the business is managed by three partners, Rob Norton, Kevin Hartley and Craig Spencer all with many years of service with FM Glenn.

Since 1979 FM Glenn has completed hundreds of projects for the private and public sectors.

The association between Coffs Harbour Airport and FM Glenn goes back many years to 1958. In January of that year Max as a newly qualified carpenter and joiner was part of the A J Hayter crew that built the original service buildings at Coffs Harbour Airport.

Now retired, Max has relinquished the reigns to Rob, Kevin and Craig who have taken the company to further heights – building the newly opened, five-storey Pandanus Apartments, nine-floor Equinox Apartments (first started by Wayne) and the newly-opened 12-storey Seashells Apartments.

Having successfully completed the airport extensions and with more projects underway, the sky’s the limit for FM Glenn Constructions.

Qantas Lounge

Seashells Apartments

Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores

Qantas Lounge

Qantas Lounge

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What’s

EVERY SUNDAY | HARBOURSIDE MARKETS This is an authentic outdoor market held every Sunday set alongside the Jetty Foreshore and historic jetty in Coffs Harbour. There is a huge range of unique art and craft, fresh local produce, tasty gourmet food and delicious beverages. Their philosophy is locally made, locally grown so you are guaranteed a unique experience. Fun and entertainment for everyone with activities, live music and performers every week. They regularly host community workshops, festivals and events. Join the community for the day and see why they love living there! For more information go to harboursidemarkets.com.au.

7 SEPTEMBER | QUEEN: BOHEMAIN RHAPSODY GREATEST HITS TOUR Hot on the trail of the Queen movie, Thomas Crane and Bohemian Rhapsody are back to tour in 2019 with their Greatest Hits tour. Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody, seen as the best Queen show in Australia if not the world, is bringing to Australia their new show, The Greatest Hits Tour.

Thomas with his hot band Bohemian Rhapsody bring back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a Queen concert. For tickets, head to eventfinda.com.au.

8 SEPTEMBER | COFFS HARBOUR RUNNING FESTIVAL The Bendigo Bank Coffs Harbour Running Festival is a community event for people of all ages and abilities and consists of a 21.1-kilometre half marathon, 10-kilometre fun run, 5-kilometre fun run and a 3-kilometre family fun run/walk. Held on a bush trail on the Coffs Creek walkway, the flat, shady course is ideal for runners. The picturesque track hugs the beautiful Coffs Creek and competitors run over floating boardwalks, through swamp forests of mangrove, casuarina and paperbark trees from the centre of town to the coast and back. The event raises funds for local children’s charities including Life Education Australia, Coffs Coast Autism, Camp Quality and Early Connections Coffs Harbour. To get involved go to villaggesports.com.au.

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16 SEPTEMBER TO 20 NOVEMBER | STILL: NATIONAL STILL LIFE AWARD Still is a biennial, acquisitive award for artworks in the genre of still life in all mediums.

The award is open to artists at all stages of their careers. Still: National Still Life Award seeks to highlight the diversity and vitality of still life in Australian contemporary art practice, broadening the interpretation and meaning of this enduring genre. Judge: Rebecca Coates (Director, Shepparton Art Museum). For details, call 02 6648 4863.

28 SEPTEMBER | CURRYFEST Curryfest celebrates the unique Punjabi heritage of Woolgoolga, immediately obvious from the Sikh temple on the hill as you enter town. For the last 13 years thousands have descended on the beachside town to soak up Indian music and dancing and sample curries from all over the world. The main festival day features over 180 food and market stalls, cooking zone and classes, Bollywood dance lessons, a special kid’s zone with rides and entertainment, a mindfulness and meditation zone for those seeking inner peace and a main stage of entertainment.

As well as main festival day, keep an eye out for other events surrounding Curryfest. There will be cooking classes, and a Bollywood movie night! Check it out in more detail at curryfest.com.au.

30 SEPTEMBER TO 4 OCTOBER | FFA NATIONAL YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR BOYS The National Youth Championships are FFA’s primary national football competition for the 13 and 14-year boys. The competition will see teams from each of the State Federations of the FFA compete over five days, with the FFA National Youth Championships for Boys in September and October this year. To see fixtures, head to northernnswfootball.com.au.

5 OCTOBER | EAT STREET WOOLGOOLGA Eat Street Woolgoolga is back for another tasty event! Come along for a night of outdoor dining, street food and entertainment and celebrate the culture and cuisine that is on offer. There will be a variety of food trucks plus some awesome restaurants on Market Street will be offering their favourite dishes. Eat Street is licensed and there will be wine, craft beer and cider for you to enjoy with your food. Live music and kids entertainment will keep everyone happy in the relaxed street party. A gold coin donation on entry will help support the Surf Life Saving Club!

18 TO 20 OCTOBER | JUNIOR AUSTRALIAN OZTAG CHAMPIONSHIPS The Australian Championships is Oztag’s toughest tournament. Local Associations throughout New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Queensland merge to form 13 Regions which enables the best of the best Oztag players aged 8 to 17 years to compete over a three-day tournament. To learn more, visit oztag.com.au.

6 TO 13 OCTOBER | NNSWF CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS Held at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, the Champion of Champions tournament is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the footballing calendar, with champions from each association pitted against each other in a battle for supremacy involving both women and men of a variety of age groups. Visit footballnsw.com.au for more.

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S N O I T I T COMPE

To get your hands on these awesome freebies, send a selfie with this issue of Coffs Harbour Airport Magazine to competitions@ttmediagroup.com.au!

WIN 1 OF 20 X DOUBLE IN-SEASON PASSES FOR GOOD BOYS The producers of Sausage Party, Superbad and Blockers bring their signature MA-rated twist to the classic coming-of-age story in Universal Pictures’ Good Boys. The comedy stars Jacob Tremblay (Wonder, Room) as the mischievous leader of a group of 12-year-old boys whose day of skipped school will become an all-day odyssey of awesomely bad decisions. From Point Grey producers Seth Rogan, Evan Goldberg and James Weaver, Good Boys is written and directed by Lee Eisenberg & Gene Stupintsky (Bad Teacher, TV’s The Office) who make their feature-film directorial debut with the comedy. Good Universe’s Nathan Kahane (Juno, Blockers) will executive produce with Josh Fagen and Brady Fujikawa. In Cinemas 19 September.

WIN 1 OF 3 EFM TREK 5,000MAH OUTDOOR POWER BANKS VALUED AT $49.95!

Because everyone can do with a power bank, especially a smart one! Equipped with DST (Device Sensing Technology), the EFM Trek Outdoor Power Bank automatically determines the power requirement for your device and optimises the output to suit so you can get the fastest and most efficient charge possible. It also protects your device from over-charging, prolonging the life of both the battery and device. Each power bank conveniently includes a 25cm USB to MicroUSB cable and handy carabiner connector.

WIN 1 X VICTA BLOWER VALUED AT $189!

Victa has introduced a new 18V offering to its comprehensive garden-care portfolio.

Leveraging the higher power density available with Lithium-Ion technology, the affordable range includes this Blower. Finished in a bright signature blue the new garden power tools are lightweight and easy to operate, making garden jobs effortless to complete.

The new 18V range is perfect for beginners or those with lighter garden work. The streamlined Victa 18V Lithium-Ion Blower is ideal for clearing leaves, dust, lawn and garden debris from hardscapes like decks, paths and drive-ways. Easy-to-control, it features five air velocity speeds with the most powerful setting at 245km/ hr and a push-button start. This affordable range is powered by Briggs & Stratton’s 18V Batteries – available in both 4Ah and 5Ah featuring a handy USB charging port. Products are available in kits, including a battery and charger, or separately as console only. The batteries are interchangeable across the entire Victa 18V range.

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W I N NER S

GREAT BEER GREAT FOOD GREAT COMPANY • • • • • •

Great country pub with country hospitality Beautiful 35 minute country drive from Coffs The Big Golden Dog, one of Australia’s “Big Things” Lunch 7 days • Dinner Wednesday to Sunday Beer Garden • Great value bistro meals Accommodation available

PHONE

6649 2162 www.thegoldendog.com.au www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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we have somet hing for everyone...

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...what ever t heir age!

When spring is in the air, the weather warmer and the football season of whatever code you follow (if any) begins to wind up, it’s time for the Coffs Harbour International Buskers and Comedy Festival.

It’s the time when wild and wacky performers from around the globe arrive on Coffs Coast to thrill, excite, entertain and make us laugh. Timed to coincide with the school holidays, this is fun, fun, fun for all the family.

One of the most popular days of the program is Kids Day which will be held on Wednesday 2 October at Park Beach Reserve. Unlike the street shows which are free (with donations gladly accepted), Kids Day is a ticketed event. Sponsored by Unrealestate and Geoff King Motors, the program has been put together with young ones in mind. The day features a variety of performers appearing on stage and closeup among the audience on the grass. Plus, there will be slides, extreme rides, a few surprises and funky music. Held between 10am to 2.30pm, tickets are now on sale online at trybooking.com.

On the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at the Pier Hotel, it will be three big nights of Unrealestate Adult Comedy, hosted by the festival’s all-time favourite funny man Lindsay Webb. He will be joined by an international cast including New Zealand’s fast-talking comedy pick pocket Jarred Fell and South Africa’s stand-up comedian, Dusty Rich. After a five-year absence, former Kiwi, Patrick Duffy who now calls Melbourne home, is the Gothic comic genius behind the scary but loveable Gargoyle. Each night will feature a different line up of performers so perhaps come along for one, two or all three shows.

While there is no cover-charge, performers will ask for a show “hat” donation.

The Coffs Harbour city centre will be the venue for four days of thrills, fun and frivolity. Gargoyle will kick off each day followed by a non-stop line up of buskers performing their acts including; Unicycling Unicorn, Leaping Louie, Melon the Human, Balloon Boy, Pandora Pink, Floor Legendz and others. Performances will be held between 10am and 2.30pm.

Not to be outdone, local organisations have also come on board to entertain us.

Members of the JRDS Julie Ross Dance Studio, Coffs Coast Community Circus and Advance Car Club will dance and perform for locals and visitors alike.

Organisers are very proud of their boast “we have something for everyone whatever their age”.

On Friday night, the festival heads to the Twilight Markets at Park Beach Reserve and on Sunday the Harbourside Markets.

And on Saturday night, a fabulous family show will be at Moonee Tavern.

This year it’s an international extravaganza. From Blaine Minnesota USA, the Unicycling Unicorn will make his way to Coffs Harbour along with Leapin’ Louie Lichenstein from Portland Oregan and Pauline Zoe; the beautiful ballerina from Brazil with her giant Cyr wheel (like a giant hoola hoop). Hip Hop and acrobatic artists, Floor Legendz boast members from Germany and Austria.

South Australia’s Pandora Pink makes her first visit to Coffs, while Melon the Human returns to Australia after a stint with Cirque De Soleil juggling glass spheres, circle and cube frames and brooms. Brit contortionist, Bendy Em, who has made Sawtell her home, will amaze you with her feats of compacting her arms legs and torso into small shapes and into small spaces.

FESTIVAL DATES

2–6 OCT 2019 Further information: Performer profiles and the full program can be found at

www.coffsharbourbuskers.com www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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NAMBUCCA RIVER Paddling a canoe or kayak is great for the mind and body.

Tourists are using these water craft to tour the Nambucca Valley in greater numbers than ever before, so Council is developing a canoe trail.

The trail breaks approximately 80 kilometres of the Nambucca River and its tributaries into 11 paddling routes. There are trails for beginners and for advanced paddlers and they range in length from one to 20 kilometres and consist of day trips or overnight stays. Nambucca Shire Council has received almost $280,000 from Roads and Maritime Services’ Boating Now Program to support the project. This funding will enable construction of some new craft launch sites, improvements to existing boat ramps, signage and communications.

National award-winning canoeist and Nambucca resident, Cath O’Donnell, said the canoe trail project was excellent as it builds on a sport and hobby that is already growing in popularity. Sport Australia’s 2018 AusPlay data estimates that 255,600 Australian adults aged 15 and over participate in canoeing and kayaking at least once per year.

“The Nambucca River and Warrell Creek are wonderful waterways to paddle as they are pristine, quiet and have abundant wildlife,” Cath said.

“I often paddle in Warrell Creek and commonly see dolphins, kingfishers and eagles. One time a sea eagle flew over the top of me carrying a fish in his talons. He landed in a tree branch overhanging the creek and ate the fish right in front of me – it was amazing.”

Cath O’Donnell with her pet pooch on Warrell Creek near Scotts Head

What is the Boating Now program?

The Boating Now program is the NSW Government’s $70 million program to support initiatives to improve the boating experience in NSW, including the delivery of recreational boating infrastructure across our waterways.

For more information visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/boatingnow.

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is a paddling paradise “I find paddling very peaceful, it’s quite meditative as you tune-out from all the things going on in your life and just look at what is immediately around you.”

Interestingly, Warrell Creek has also gained the attention of the Australian Heritage Commission which said the tributary has “a high degree of visual integrity, with more than 10 kilometres of waterway lined almost entirely by a diversity of undisturbed coastal forest and dunes”.

Other great canoe trails include Tilly Willy Creek near Macksville and Nambucca’s lower river estuary. Tilly Willy Creek is an easy paddle for beginners or children as its launch point at River Street, Macksville, is wide and the creek water is calm. Here canoeists can paddle upstream for about one kilometre, seeing some of Macksville’s earlier homesteads, house boats and lots of pelicans and water birds.

By Elizabeth Spry The Nambucca River lower estuary offers lots of variety for paddlers. There are numerous islands to hop around, including Stuart Island where paddlers can take a break for a barbecue or buy lunch at the Island Golf Club restaurant.

The Nambucca River here is always aqua blue and there is an abundance of fish, birds and dolphins can often be seen. Paddlers can access the river here from the Boatshed launch point, adjacent to the Nambucca Heads RSL carpark, Gordon Park boat ramp or Stuart Island boat ramp. The Gumbaynggirr people are the traditional owners of this creek and all the land and waterways in the Nambucca Valley.

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Paddlers on Tilly Willy Creek

MAIN IMAGE:

Cath O’Donnell on Warrell Creek near Scotts Head Paddlers on Nambuccca River at Macksville

Want to visit?

If you don’t have your own kayak or canoe, don’t worry.

The Boatshed at Nambucca Heads hires water craft – phone (02) 6568 6511.

There are numerous accommodation options along the river and near to craft launch points, ranging from cabins to campsites. Contact nambucca.tourism@nambucca.nsw.gov.au for more information or visit www.nambuccatourism.com.au.

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S E L Z Z U P

SUDOKU Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Difficulty rating 1

Difficulty rating 2

Difficulty rating 3

SOLUTIONS

3

2

1

j o k e ...

A couple drove down a country road for several kilometres, not saying a word.

An earlier discussion had led to an argument and neither of them wanted to concede their position.

As they passed a barnyard of cows, goats and pigs, the husband asked sarcastically, “Relatives of yours?”

“Yep,” the wife replied, “in-laws.”

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FILL ’ER UP! The reason Coffs Harbour Airport and other regional airports around New South Wales have aviation fuel depots is a legacy from the days of Ansett ANA, Hazelton Airlines and Air NSW. According to World Fuel Services’ Coffs Harbour operator, Bruce Beattie, these airlines in the early 1960s were championing the expansion of aviation services particularly in regional Australia.

At the time, their policy was to refuel aircraft at regional airports. This resulted Dennis Martin and Bruce Beattie

in Mobil Aviation Australia establishing fuel agents at airports throughout New South Wales, including Coffs Harbour.

When Bruce started in the aviation industry some 34 years ago, it was on a part-time basis as a refueller for Williams Air Services. Based at Coffs Harbour Airport, he graduated to fulltime employment in 1989 and stayed with Williams until 1998. That year Bruce established Beatties Aviation Refuelling P/L and purchased the refuelling business.

Nathan refuelling Care Flight

He has been here ever since.

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Now with a team of three, Bruce with Alex, ex-Virgin Australia, Nathan, ex-Toll Air Freight they provide the essential fuel that keeps fixed wing and rotary aircraft in the air. Tiger, Virgin and Qantas are all customers of World Fuel Services.

And so too is the Coffs Harbour based flying school, Professional Pilot Training, plus Australian Customs, the Australian Defence Force, emergency services including; Westpac Rescue Helicopter, NSW Air Ambulance and Care Flight. And a plethora of visiting and transit aircraft carrying corporate and celebrity people.

Some that Bruce recalls include; Mick Doohan (World Champion Motor Biker), Max Hazelton (Hazelton Airlines), Graeme Strachan (Shirley of Sky Hooks fame) and Coffs local, Russell Crowe.

Unlike the 1960s era when refuelling at regional airports was the priority, today’s aviation scene is much different. Sydney is the main refuelling port for the major carriers, technology has improved engine performance and aircraft carry more passengers per trip which combined has reduced the consumption of fuel.

Alex checking fuel

Nevertheless, over one million litres of Jet A1 and Avgas is consumed each year at Coffs Harbour Airport. The Coffs Harbour depot has four 27,000-litre storage tanks; three of Jet A1 fuel and one of Avgas.

So, if you are driving wings rather than wheels and need to ‘fill ‘er up’ drop into Coffs Harbour Airport. Bruce, Alex and Nathan are on duty seven days per week and will happily top up your tanks.

World Fuel Services (Coffs Harbour), phone 0408 665 792.

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SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Join the Future At the youthful age of 25, Southern Cross University could still be considered ‘the new kid on the block’ in the academic world.

B

orn in 1970 as the Lismore Teachers College, three years later it transitioned to the Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education until 1994 when it graduated as Southern Cross University.

In that year, two campuses were established; one at Lismore, the other in Coffs Harbour. However, it was two years before the Coffs Harbour campus welcomed students as part of the Coffs Harbour Education Campus in partnership with North Coast TAFE and later, Senior College.

Since then, Southern Cross University has continued to expand its course selections, academic expertise and facilities in Lismore, Coffs Harbour and in 2012 on Queensland’s GoLd Coast when it opened a new campus.

Like all dedicated students, Southern Cross continues to strive to be even better than before. Vice Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker is particularly proud of the achievements of university‘s management team, professional staff and students across all three campuses.

“Southern Cross is being consistently recognised for the calibre of courses we offer and delivering great outcomes,” Professor Shoemaker said.

“We are continuing to introduce innovative new courses and availabilities and have a range of scholarships on offer for commencing students.”

“We are leading the charge in psychological science, named number one in the country for student support and teaching quality in the Good Universities Guide, and we were awarded five stars for overall education experience, skills development and learner engagement.”

As a leader in allied health education and with a specialised new building on the way at the Coffs Harbour campus, Southern Cross is offering new degrees including a double degree in exercise science and psychological science.

Those who live in Coffs Harbour and travel along Hogbin Drive cannot help but notice the activity of men, women and machines constructing the new Health Building. Since 20 August last year when the ground breaking ceremony was held, the build has progressed as planned.

Funded by the Commonwealth Government, once completed the $12.4 million Health Building will feature a range of multipurpose teaching and research facilities, breakout spaces, an external shaded seating area and a range of high-tech Aerial of Coffs Campus - Health Building on bottom RHS

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Graduates from these courses will in turn make invaluable contributions to the health and well-being of the people of Coffs Coast and all Australians, now and into the future.

ABOVE: Southern

Cross University’s Kate Tuck and Prof Les Christidis checking construction progress LEFT: Work

in progress

BELOW: Woollam

BELOW LEFT: Aerial

of work in progress

Constructions site manager Adam Gallagher and Prof Les Christidis reviewing work in progress

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laboratories. According to the university’s Head of Campus (Coffs Harbour) and Dean of Graduate Studies, Professor Les Christidis, the building design will incorporate a creative and practical integrated running track. This will start externally then continue to the inside of the building, enabling teachers and students to study biomechanical movement.

Professor Christidis says the University’s School of Health and Human Sciences is the largest and fastest-growing organisational unit within the Coffs Harbour campus and this new facility will see an increase in both student numbers and teaching staff. Interest in the newly offered degree in Occupational Therapy has seen unprecedented demand and it is expected that the courses yet to be announced will also be very popular. The project has already seen job creation with over 300 professionals engaged in the design and construction of the Health Building thus far.

The multi-purpose nature of the building will cater for a variety of disciplines including Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Physiology and Exercise Science. Additional allied health courses are currently being developed and are expected to be announced early next year.

The new facility and course offerings will cater for between 120 to 150 students each year, and employ approximately 20 full time teaching staff. Some will be Coffs Coast residents, however, many are expected to come from further afield, bringing additional economic benefit to the region.

The Coffs Harbour Education Campus, including the new Health Building, is sited on the traditional lands of the

Gumbaynggirr people. Already acknowledged on the entry signage to the campus, this will be further recognised by the creation of the Aunty Bea Ballangarry Yarning and Healing Circle. This tranquil outdoor space will incorporate seating surrounded with plantings of indigenous medicinal flora where people can gather to talk and learn from and support one another in their academic pursuits.

Professor Christidis and his colleagues are looking forward to the new facility being completed later this year, saying the Health Building will complement and expand the courses already on offer across all three campuses of the university.

Recently, the Times Higher Education subject rankings placed Southern Cross University in the top four per cent of universities for physical sciences and psychology, and in the top six per cent of universities for pre-clinical, clinical and health education. The ‘new kid on the block’ is now fastmaturing.

The new Health Building and the courses that will soon be taught will make a significant contribution to educating the next generation of occupational therapists, exercise scientists, health practitioners and community workers.

Perhaps your career path into the future can be found here, too?

To learn about the courses on offer visit www.scu.edu.au/courses.

Aerial of work in progress

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Who would have believed that Elton John would consider staging one of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road – The Final Tour concerts on Coffs Coast?

Certainly not local entrepreneur and publican Harry Barry.

A keen Elton fan, Harry had engaged Elton John impersonator, Kim Hoffman and his band to stage a tribute performance at the Hoey Moey Hotel in late September. Unbeknown to Harry, things were happening in secret to entice the real Elton John to Coffs.

When the deal was done and approval given for the concert date to be made public, Harry was approached to gather his and wider tourism industry support to ensure Elton’s visit is an outstanding success for Elton and Coffs Coast. When advised by Coffs Harbour City Council’s City Prosperity staff Nikki Greenwood and Daniel Heather that Elton was coming to Coffs, he replied, “I know, I have booked him for a show in September”. They said again that Elton John has agreed to stage one of his Australian tour concerts in Coffs, Harry reiterated, “Yes, I know, I’ve booked him to play at the Hoey Moey”. Taking a deep breath and looking at one another then to Harry, Nikki and Daniel said, “We are taking about the real Elton John”. It was then that Harry caught on and nearly fell through the floor, and so too did many others in the community.

So, how did it come that Coffs Harbour gained not one, but now two concerts on The Final Tour? Chugg Entertainment which successfully managed Elton John’s two previous tours to Australia in 2002 and 2008 was again successful in securing the task of promoting this final tour. Chugg executives then went about researching capital city and regional venues for facilities and services with the capacity to host a large scale music concert.

Part of this process included an aerial reconnaissance over towns and cities on North Coast NSW including Coffs Harbour. When Chugg’s management people saw the C.ex Coffs International Stadium they contacted Coffs Harbour City Council. Due to the top-secret nature of more shows being added to the tour, a confidentially agreement first had to be signed by the very limited number of Council staff to be involved in the project.

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PHOTO: Ben Gibson

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Since 14 June when it was first announced to the public that Elton is coming, Coffs Council and the business community have been collaborating on plans and ideas to best manage and maximise the opportunity presented by the influx of visitors coming for the shows.

From an operations perspective, many Coffs Coast businesses will be involved in the event; traffic management, security, accommodation establishments, food and beverage services, emergency services and transport logistics. To ensure safe and timely access to and from the stadium, concert goers will be bussed from convenient locations within central Coffs Harbour, Sawtell and Park Beach. 20,000 people are expected for each of the two performances scheduled for 25 and 26 February next year.

A fabulous variety of events are being planned to add to the Coffs Coast experience and encourage out of town people attending the concerts to stay longer. A call out to local businesses and groups has thrown up some fabulous and fun ideas:

An Elton John businesses house karaoke singing competition Cancer Council NSW – Elton John dancing theme to raise funds for cancer research Bunker Cartoon Gallery – a special exhibition of Elton John and other rock star imagery and memorabilia Guinness Book of records attempt – the most people wearing Elton John glasses singing the same song at a barbecue on the Jetty Foreshores The Jetty being bathed in bright yellow light An Elton John surfing festival Elton John look-alike competition, pub choir, trivia competition and more.

These are still a work-in-progress, so stay tuned to the media for when activities are confirmed, then be sure to join in the fun. And if you have any ideas for an Elton themed activity, send it to Council’s City Prosperity Group at industry@chcc.nsw.gov.au.

PHOTO: Ben Gibson

Feedback from Chugg Management is that ticket sales are progressing very well, but there are still some seats available for both concerts. Already, there have been reports of some fans purchasing multiple tickets to see Elton perform in The Hunter Valley and Coffs Harbour. And it is expected local residents will be playing host to family and friends from near and far coming to see Elton.

According to Daniel Heather, who is Council’s Section Leader for Stadium and Major Events, successfully staging the Elton John concerts further cements Coffs Coast as the premier destination for events in regional NSW, if not Australia. He said, “This will showcase the new and upgraded facilities of the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, the can-do attitude of Council’s stadium team, the support from Coffs Harbour businesses and tourism enterprises and the community backing for hosting large scale events in the city”.

The estimated economic value for the city of Elton John’s performances alone will exceed $2 million and this value is likely to increase due to the number of visitors to the region, with many expected to extend their stay to experience the beautiful Coffs Coast.

The events will also mean all hands on deck from the stadium’s greenkeepers and event coordinators. Their tasks will be challenging as not only will they help with preparing the venue and grounds for the staging and seating, they will also remediate the ground to tip top condition. The team has a full pre and postevent plan to make sure the grounds will be ready to host the city’s annual calendar of sporting events once the concert is over.

For die-hard sports fans, it should be noted that the primary purpose of the stadium will continue to be sporting events. By successfully hosting the Elton John concert at the stadium and promoting Coffs Coast in partnership with Chugg Entertainment the aim is to attract additional major national and international sporting events to Coffs Harbour.

So, put on your most colourful EJ glasses, dress up in your best Elton costume and walk, sing and dance on yellow brick road to Coffs Harbour and say farewell and thank you to Elton Hercules John.

For tickets head to

https://premier.ticketek.com.au.

PHOTO: Ben Gibson

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For Coffs Coast what to see and do and accommodation visit

www.coffscoast.com.au

Love a good read?

Check out these titles the next time you’re looking for a page-turner...

CAREER

TRAVEL

So You Got The Job! WTF Is Next?

Great Railway Journeys Of Europe

By: Greg Weiss

By: Insight Guides

Deeply fascinated with everything to do with human nature and with over 30 years’ experience in the Human Resources sector, Greg Weiss is one of Australia’s leading career coaches. His expertise has helped thousands of people accelerate and relaunch their careers. His experience with onboarding and offboarding approaches, retaining Millennials and bringing the best out of all employees is what inspired Greg to write his first book, ‘So You Got the Job! WTF Is Next?’

Great Railway Journeys of Europe is all a traveller needs to plan and enjoy European rail adventures, with inspirational in-depth coverage of the history and development of railways alongside practical guidance.

Insight Guides is releasing a book for those who can identify with these words, written by Agatha Christie, or who think they might be able to, given the chance.

With up to 20 per cent of employee turnover happening within the first 45 days, and that rate even higher for Millennials1, the book serves to help navigate employees during the pivotal first few months. Readers will understand exactly where they fit, how to maximise their strengths, how to develop productive working relationships with the right people and above all, how to be engaged at work for future career success.

Price: $24.99 From: All leading bookstores

“Dear Victoria, gateway to the world beyond England. How I love your continental platform, and how I love trains anyway. Snuffing up the sulphurous smell ecstatically, so different from the feint, aloof, distantly oily smell of a boat.

But a train, a big snorting hurrying, companionable train with its big puffing engine, sending up clouds of steam and seeming to say impatiently, “I’ve got to be off, I’ve got to be off, I’ve got to be off”, is a friend.’ Agatha Christie Price: $34.09 From: Angus and Robertson

EMPOWERMENT

The Economy Of Enough By: Bronwyn Sciortino Every desire to create a change in our life originates because of an experience.

Every experience is based on a choice.

Every choice is based on a belief about the outcome. Our experiences, whether it’s mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, health, finances, relationships, lifestyle, career or happiness, are all based on a belief. So, the question becomes, “Where do your beliefs about who you are and what you’re capable of doing, being or having come from and when is enough finally enough?” This book can help you answer those questions.

In her latest book, award-winning businesswoman Bronwen Sciortino unlocks the secret to happily ever after and shares practical and easy steps to allow you to experience the same love and commitment you give to everyone around you. From exhausted to exulted, this book reveals just how easily you can infuse your life with outrageous happiness, love and laughter - using an easy to follow process and with loads of ease and grace.

Price: $30.95 From: Angus and Robertson

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up close and personal with

eskimo joe To celebrate 21 years since the formation of Eskimo Joe, the past 12 months has seen the platinum-selling band from Western Australia reissuing their back catalogue in new formats. Eskimo Joe has announced the latest album to be given the deluxe treatment will be Black Fingernails Red Wine. We sat down with guitarist Stu MacLeod for a chat about the anniversary release…

Q. A twenty-first birthday is something to celebrate! Why did you choose Black Fingernails and Red Wine to do so?

Q. WA fans will be pleased to hear of the Fremantle Show.

What’s your favourite thing about performing at home?

A. It was really the record that defined us for so many people. It was that stereotypical “crossover” record that, for better or worse, reached the most people and had the biggest impact for us and for those people. Plus, it’s just heaps of fun to play live!

A. It’s honestly one of the most nerve-racking experiences a musician can have, playing to their family, friends and peers at home. These people grew up with you, they know you and who you are and there’s nowhere to hide, so you have to forget all the bullsh*t and just lay yourself out there on stage.

It’s pretty freeing when it comes together, though!

Q. Looking back on your time as a band, how has your music evolved over the years?

A. Each record has been a bit of an experiment for us. Our last record Wastelands was the one record where we really pushed the boat out. There were hardly any guitars on the whole record and it pretty much centred around an old 80s Roland synthesizer. It was heaps of fun and really inspiring to be exploring such a different set of sounds. I honestly have no idea what the next record could possibly sound like and I think that’s the most exciting thing.

Q. What about music-making - have those techniques changed?

A. Most definitely. Technology has come so far in terms of virtual sounds, sample libraries and controllers. There’s so much more electronic music dominating the listening habits of your average person, so naturally people are becoming more and more literate with music programming and music production in general. Traditional recording studios will always have their place – an amazing sounding room is difficult to “program” into a plugin. But you would be amazed what is possible these days. You can program a pretty decent sounding drum track without a live room or even a drummer…

Q. As a band, would you say your inspiration evolves as well?

A. Anyone’s inspiration has to change and evolve to be inspiring.

I don’t see how you could create genuinely exciting music if you were inspired by the same thing every time. It’s a good thing we live in a pretty saturated world in terms of inspiration. There’s just so much information out there and so many amazing people creating every day. It’s hard not to be inspired!

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Q. Any other surprise gigs planned for the rest of Australia?

A. Yes indeed there are, but you will have to wait to find out…

Q. The coloured vinyl is an epic touch! How the band come up with the design for this anniversary edition?

A. Ha! I’m glad you like it. I love vinyl. In fact, I love anything that forces you to slow down and appreciate something that people have put a lot of work into. The world is obsessed with getting the best deals, the cheapest versions and the quickest turnaround. The world wants everything now and for free. It’s great to see people embracing things you can touch, feel and that force you to take time to truly enjoy them. As such, the choice to make this a special item was easy to make.

Q. What’s your favourite track on this album?

A. One of my favourite tracks is This Is Pressure. That track was one of those organic moments - a bunch of mates sitting in Kav’s jam room just bouncing ideas off each other. It all came together so easily and we all created such a great vibe. Love it!

Q. It’s been a few years since we’ve had a new Eskimo Joe album – is anything planned?

A. We’ve all got a bunch of stuff going on in our lives, so finding time to write together is hard these days, but we’re working on one song at the moment. If all goes well, we’ll take it from there and hopefully get an album together!

To stay up-to-date with the latest news, tour announcements and track release by Eskimo Joe, visit eskimojoe.net.

ENTERTAINMENT www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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The smart way to stay healthy this season

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It is the perfect time of year for comfort food, but the added bonus on this one is it is low carb, gluten free and you wouldn’t know it! YAY, zoodles!

Of course, if you wanted to you could add any noodles of choice. Buckwheat (soba) noodles would be awesome!

This is a chicken noodle soup for the soul, whichever way you make it!

Chicken Zoodle Soup Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 6 spring onions, quartered 2 cloves garlic 20g fresh ginger, peeled weight 20g Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 tsp turmeric powder 2 carrots, peeled and diced 1 stalk celery, diced 1L liquid chicken stock 750 to 850g chicken thigh fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 to 2 zucchini, ‘zoodled’ Handful parsley, roughly chopped for garnish METHOD 1. Place spring onion, garlic, ginger and olive oil into a food processor and chop until no large pieces remain.

2. Tip contents into a large saucepan or soup pan and add turmeric. Sauté on medium high heat until caramelised and fragrant, stirring occasionally, about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Add carrot, celery, stock and water and bring to a boil.

Cook until carrots are tender.

4. Add chicken and cook at a rolling boil for about 5 minutes until the chicken is just cooked.

5. Pour hot soup over zoodles, sprinkle with parsley and serve.

It can be tempting to do as the bears do and hibernate at this time of the year, but as cosy as these cool months are, we still have to watch our waistlines! Luckily, clinical nutritionist and health coast Gabriella Ratner has the perfect dinner planned.

A healthy chicken casserole with goat’s cheese and zucchini noodles INGREDIENTS 1 x 400g can Italian diced tomatoes 1 cup of chicken stock 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 1/2 red chilli, diced finely 1 red onion, diced finely 3/4 teaspoon of ground sweet paprika 8 chicken thighs, cut into small chunks 2 zucchinis, grated into noodles 1/4 cup of coriander 1/4 cup of parsley 1/4 cup of green basil 6 green onions 1/2 cup of goat’s cheese Salt and ground pepper 2 tablespoons of olive oil METHOD

Gabriella Ratner is a clinical nutritionist,

certified health coach and owner of Intuitive Health Hub in Bondi Junction, Sydney. Specialising in mental, digestive and female reproductive health, she likes to do things a little differently. She doesn’t treat problems and symptoms, she treats people.

Inspired by her own personal health journey, she believes in addressing the underlying causes of her patients’ health issues, not the signs. She lives near Bondi Beach in Sydney with her husband, three gorgeous kids and Mickey the Cavoodle. When she’s not talking, writing or giving advice on holistic health, you’ll find her cooking up a storm, travelling with her family or enjoying a cheeky glass of red wine.

Learn more about Gabriella at

www.intuitivehealth.com.au.

1. Heat one tablespoon of the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the chicken and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Fry for two to three minutes or until the chicken is pale golden-brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. You may need to do this in two lots.

2. Heat the remaining oil in the frying pan the chicken was cooked in and fry the onion, garlic, paprika and chilli for two to three minutes or until softened. Add the chopped tomatoes and stock and cook for a further two to three minutes.

3. Return the seared chicken to the tomato stew and cook for 10 minutes.

4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for a further five minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. The chicken is cooked through when the juices run clear when pierced with a skewer.

5. To serve, top with goat’s cheese, green onion and herbs

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NEW ALBUM

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