Coffs Coast Focus i103 by Focus

Marcus Phillips

April 2019. issue 103

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team From the

Welcome to the April issue of Coﬀs Coast FOCUS .

hat a fantastic month we’ve had executing this bumper edition of FOCUS. As you flip through our 96 fabulous, glossy pages, you’ll be introduced to all that makes up this unique city from the eyes of the FOCUS team and all who contribute to putting this wonderful publication together every month! It is with great pleasure we introduce to you our very first “fitness edition”. The health and fitness industry has grown in leaps and bounds ... with people naturally wanting to live longer, be healthier, look better, and have fun! We would love to say a massive thanks to our front cover models this month: Jenna Ferreira from Jenna Ferreira Health and Fitness (JFHF) and James Sanders and Jake Birdsall from Coffs Coast

CrossFit. These guys are #bodygoals. Our friend Marcus Phillips is one of those people who has so many interesting stories to share! He has had a successful career in interior and kitchen design, currently working here in Coffs Harbour. He is also an incredibly talented musician, is the son of a famous Australian actress, and can even pilot an aeroplane! Jacki James and her sister, Kylie, are identical twins with a 99.99% DNA match! They have an incredible twin connection, and they are currently writing a book together about it. They have now spent many years living apart, as their jobs as Police Officers had Jacki stationed here on the Coffs Coast and her sister in Outback Australia, so they decided after turning 50 it was time to reconnect and spend some time together walking the Camino Trail in Spain.

Artist David Bromley can currently be found working on a mural in Urunga town centre, which was commissioned after the Bellingen Shire Council secured a grant from the NSW Department of Trade and Industry. David has called the Coffs Coast home since returning from London, where he worked as a cartoonist and illustrator for many top newspapers. Next month we will showcase our annual Women’s Health Feature - the yearly guide specifically created for women, combining information about nutrition, fitness, weight management, lifestyle, beauty concerns, pregnancy and prenatal care, ageing health and much more … Final say: “What hurts today, makes you stronger tomorrow” - Jay Cutler.

Wishing upon a star? Let Mercedes-Benz Australia's New Vehicle Sales Consultant Of The Year Lachlan Brown assist you with your new car purchase. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. You know that you will get the right advice & friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration our range of motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au LMD3461 Coffs Coast focus 3

contents

Issue 103 - April 2019

focusinterviews

feature a special

THE FITNESS EDITION

Marcus Phillips. An incredibly talented musician, the son of a famous Australian actress - and he can even pilot an aeroplane! We sat down with Marcus and got him to share a bit about himself, his inspiring family and his love of music...

Jacki James.

Jacki James and her sister, Kylie, are identical twins with a 99.99% DNA match! They have an incredible twin connection, and they are currently writing a book together about it. They have now spent many years living apart as their jobs as Police officers stationed Jacki here on the Coffs Coast and her sister in Outback Australia, so they decided after turning 50 it was time to re-connect and spend some time together walking the Camino Trail in Spain.

Brent Culkin. Meet the newly appointed General Manager of the Coast Hotel, Brent Culkin. Brent has an extensive background in hospitality, and he has some big plans to improve the Coast Hotel. FOCUS had a chat with Brent to find out more …

the Usual

Suspects

16. WHAT’S ON for April 20. EAT local restaurants 36. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 43. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss 67. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman 77. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall

Jemima Wright

Jemima Wright completed her apprenticeship in hairdressing here on the Coffs Coast, and even though she then moved away, she always came back for visits and calls Coffs home. Whilst living in Sydney, Jemima worked for some of the city’s most prestigious salons and won a number of awards for her work. And now, she’s brought that talent back home to the Coffs Coast!

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82. ABODE property guide

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Coffs Coast focus 5

Marcus PHILLIPS

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focusinterview.

Marcus PHILLIPS

e is also an incredibly talented musician, is the son of a famous Australian actress, and can even pilot an aeroplane! We sat down and got him to share a bit about himself, his inspiring family and his love of music. Hey Marcus; what brought you to the Coffs Coast? I was working as a designer in Brisbane, and my wife actually won the top scholarship to do a PhD with the University of New England in Armidale. So, we moved out of Brisbane and bought a place in Uralla, which is 22 km south of Armidale. I originally was still working in Brisbane and travelling back and forth, but that became untenable. So, I got a job in Tamworth for a couple of years, and then the people that own the company I’m with now heard about me. They got in touch and wanted me to open a showroom in Coffs and run it for them, which is what I’ve been doing now for almost six years. Not a lot of people know that you are also a musician. When did you first get into music? I started playing guitar when I was six years old; I had classical guitar lessons with a local teacher for a while and then went on to the Conservatorium. I went to England after that - my parents deported my brother and I for a while … it didn’t work though! We found our way back after three years! But other than that little break, I was playing guitar pretty constantly and when I came back, I joined my first band; I think I was 15 or 16 years old. I was also accepted into the Academy of Guitar in Bondi with John Andrews, who was quite a famous jazz guitar player and George Golla. I continued playing with different bands - quite a few well known bands back in the day! My brother was a drummer, by the way, so we’ve had lots of bands together. He’s an excellent drummer - one of the best in Australia, in my opinion. Then the whole design thing took off, and I

My mother is an unbelievably

left music alone for a few talented and creative person; years. After a while though, she can paint oil I started getting back into it painting portraits to again, then my brother and look like a photograph! I started a band called Funk She’s an amazing piano Brothers, which became player, singer, dancer... quite well known. She was actually the first woman What is your favourite on Australian television ... type of music, and how up with the name The would you describe your Seventh Winter, which I style of music? thought was a pretty cool name! My favourite music is fusion, jazz/rock fusion, Are you looking for more members for this and that’s people like the later Miles Davis stuff, band? John John McLaughlin, George Duke, Herbie Yes! I’m on the hunt for a really good Hancock. And the closest genre to that is keyboard player - someone who can do string actually ‘70s funk, so that’s why we started the lines and brass stabs and things like that, band called Funk Brothers Inc ... or the FBI (we because, it’s that sort of music really. We also actually dressed in FBI style suits too!) We were need a great singer, or singers! I like meeting a corporate band; it just didn’t appeal to me to talented locals! get about 100 bucks for doing five hours in a You have a pretty interesting family; can pub and carrying amplifiers down the back stairs you tell us a bit about your parents’ story? at 2am, so we got a good agent and did mostly Yeah! My parents were Ten Pound Poms. big corporate gigs. The money was much better, When they came over here, my father worked and they’d even feed us! And, that’s what we as a carpenter for the ABC building sets, and he did for years - it worked beautifully. ended up being a producer and director with We did other big gigs too; like, we used to the ABC for years. My mother is an unbelievably do seven day stints at Twin Towns on the Gold talented and creative person; she can paint oil Coast. We also had a permanent gig for about painting portraits to look like a photograph! a year for Gill Hooley’s Irish pub in Brisbane City, She’s an amazing piano player, singer, dancer ... and we got a real following from doing that, She was actually the first woman on actually. Australian television! A bloke came on first and So, you’re getting back into it now - you’re welcomed everybody to television in Australia, trying to form a new band, is that right? and then my mother did a Charleston dance. Yeah, I’m thinking about it - not that there’s She then went on to join a singing troupe called a big avenue for bands in Coffs Harbour. I the Review 20 for a television program - called believe the criteria for really getting a band off Review 61, I think. She went from there to going the ground is having a population of a million on the panel of Beauty and the Beast, which people. But what I’m thinking of doing is, was a famous television show back then; it was and I’ve got a couple of local guys interested a daytime show that had a panel with people in giving it a go, maybe to aim to do festivals like Dita Cobb, Maggie Tabberer, quite famous and things like that - like the Bellingen Winter names at that time, and then she ended up Music Festival and the Thredbo Blues and Roots becoming one of those famous names too. She Festival. To do all of those sorts of music festivals was then in the Mavis Bramston Show, which is probably where we’d like to head. The idea was another big show back then. She went on for the new band name came from when I to have her own television shows; she had the was in Uralla for the seventh year, and I came

first midday show in Australian TV, called Strictly For The Birds, which then became Girl Talk, interviewing famous people from overseas that were visiting Australia, like the cast of Hogan’s Heroes. She also went to Los Angeles and interviewed people like Omar Sharif, Paul Newman, and the cast of TV shows like Bonanza. She won her first Golden Logie in 1967, and another silver Logie in 1968. But then she sold up in Sydney and bought a couple of hundred acres near Byron Bay, and she sort of dropped out a little bit; she kept working, but nowhere near as frantically as she was before. And she’s actually still working to this day - she just scored a part in a BBC movie! You went to the Logies recently; what’s it like being around all that glitz and glamour? It’s quite amazing! The last one was at a big casino on the Gold Coast, so you gather in the foyer and then you’ve got to do the red carpet, which is about 100 m long, and along either side of that there are these little grandstands with fans who won tickets to be sitting there, and the press. So, you walk down this 100 m long carpet - I had my mother on my arm - and everybody recognised her, so she was being stopped for photographs and interviews constantly! It took an hour just to get down the bloody red carpet, before you’re even in the auditorium! It’s phenomenal. And on our table we had Josh and Elyse from The Block - which was brilliant, because I got a photo with them and so when my clients see it, they assume I was at the Logies because I was assisting The Block with interior design! Thanks Marcus. Coffs Coast focus 7

getting to know Patrick

Conaghan

For 56 unbroken years, the National Party has served the Cowper Electorate, now covering the area from Coffs Harbour in the north to Port Macquarie in the south and the towns in between and around the electorate. Meet the man who’s offering consistency, continuity, and mature ability to work with others in the local network of Nationals MPs, both State and Federal.

ith the generosity typical and challenges. of communities across the Later, to move up in the force he took the mid-north coast, those a little detectives course, requiring transfer to the city. better off than others regularly His advancement saw him attached for five years dropped off vegies from their to the drug squad, two years as an undercover gardens, meat from their farms, and surplus fish operative, an elite unit of just six, his high-risk they’d caught on the front verandah of eightwork infiltrating criminal organisations importing year-old Pat Conaghan’s childhood home. The heroin, cocaine and other prohibited substances house also served as the evening consulting succeeding in removing from circulation millions rooms of his dad, country of dollars worth of drugs, GP, baby deliverer and and the dealers, and the surgeon John Conaghan. disaster resulting from Between days spent their crimes. Promoted Dad said education was the most swinging from the willow to police prosecutor in important thing. School taught me trees on the riverbank Manly, securing justice discipline. That routine was easy to with his older brother through the courts, like transpose into my later life when I and three sisters, the so many cops he studied needed it. youngster was charged concurrently for a law with ensuring the fresh degree. produce reached locals By 2001, after 12 years’ doing it tough, easing their road a little. service and at the age of 30, he’d pursued and It was this experience that probably triggered won his goal of graduating in law - two years on Conaghan’s inclination to help others, to reach setting up his own legal practice in Manly, and across the spectrum of the poorer, unemployed later the CBD - and of marrying Ilona. and aged and become involved in working to The lure of involvement in public life persisted create better lives. meanwhile and, with the Four decades on, at 48, couple renting in the North Conaghan is seeking to Sydney local government step up into the Nationals’ In my gap year I worked in Kempsey area, Conaghan was long-term role as the as a plumber’s labourer, builder’s elected a councillor, Member for Cowper in labourer, brickie’s labourer. It made me requiring meetings and the federal parliament. realise quickly tradies work very hard. committee work four It’s an opportunity he’s nights a week and at keen to grasp to continue weekends – a job he the work that’s seen our thrived on. region prosper ahead of many others around the But with two young sons, Hamish, 3, and nation. And to deal, too, with the many ongoing the elder boy Hugh, 6, having started school, issues we face. his bush upbringing beckoned and Conaghan Conaghan chose a career in the law and law brought the family back to the mid-north coast. enforcement and the benefits it brings to people’s Two of his sisters remain here: Teresa, a music livelihoods. Graduating teacher, married to solicitor from Goulburn Police Tony Cox, and Louise, a Academy, he asked former teacher, whose to be stationed back husband Zane Grigg is an I loved every second of the 12 years in his Macleay Valley accountant. The Conaghan I was in the police. hometown of Kempsey, siblings’ offspring typical of the smaller comprises 10 cousins, a settlements between and solid family network. Ilona, around the twin peaks a born and bred Sydney girl, loves the country of Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie, with their life. commonality of populations, aspirations, lifestyle, Four years ago Conaghan sought to represent 8 Coffs Coast focus

Even as a kid, I couldn’t - can’t - stand it when I see the wrong thing being done, or something that can be done better.

the region in the and an ambition to Nationals-held state seat solve problems, create of Oxley, bowing out job opportunities, and to now Roads Minister improve lives. Melinda Pavey who’d Ilona, a city girl who the advantage of having served 12 years in the travelled widely pre-marriage, now works as a NSW upper house. Now, onto Cowper and the visual merchandiser and interiors stylist and as a determination, and energy, to join the mid-north reflexologist. Amid regular mum duties, the boys’ coast Nats’ team that supports each other, in sport and taekwondo, she’s organising renovating the state and federally, to the couple’s ’80s-era make things happen. house. It’s Saturday and ten The tenets of boys aged between nine taekwondo the I have to lead by example with my and 12 are running and Conaghans value are boys. I’m out there having a go. I tumbling in the grassy courtesy, integrity, hope it rubs off on them. backyard of the Conaghan perseverance, self-control, home with the highindomitable spirit and spirited pre-teen energy modesty. you’d love to be able to bottle. Scout, the family’s Tall, and once a professional dancer, actor, four-year-old English Springer Spaniel, is into it singer, pianist, dance and drama teacher, Ilona’s too. background runs from a Sports Science degree As in many homes in our neck of the and work in US summer camps and as a nanny, woods there are palms, trees, frangipani and living in Paris as a Moulin Rouge dancer, cabaret bougainvillea thriving in work across Europe the humidity, a small herb and Asia, to starting a garden. Tonight the young “live-release butterflies” friends will sleep over for business (for wedding I pride myself on loyalty. And if I say Hugh’s birthday. In the celebrations or at funerals). I’m going to do something, I do it. kitchen, Pat Conaghan’s Romantically, the pair preparing food for them: married with just a handful marinated slow-cooked of guests in Tuscany. racks of ribs for crisping in the oven. He loves Conaghan’s GP dad died early, 30 years ago. cooking, family life, playing guitar with his sons, His mother Stella, a nurse when she met her weekends, spends half the working week at his husband, is now 82 and still lives in the original local firm, Conaghan Lawyers, half commuting century-old family home. She makes the trip to his Sydney law practice. Sydney’s been on by car to visit her nearby grandchildren twice a hold this year while he week. campaigns vigorously, There’s a stability talking to the spectrum about the Conaghans, of people across Cowper, the sort electors are It would be nice to take some and will be divested if demanding. More than dignity back to Canberra. Because he goes to Canberra. ever voters are rejecting of the actions of a few ... normal Modest by nature and, the preoccupation people want to see politicians not refreshingly, not a show with “identity politics” promoting themselves, but just pony (he doesn’t say so in favour of certainty, doing their job. but his good friend Manu dependability: they want of TV’s My Kitchen Rules a safe, steady choice, a visited for a fundraiser representative with a solid function) he’s nevertheless reputation to be relied on an outgoing personality with the experience for dedication to family and community, beyond to absorb and action a wide range of briefs self.

With Madonna Bannerman, Owner of Two Tails Wines, Nana Glen.

wine month

Crafty

of the

BLACK VELVET

If you like a sweeter style of red wine, “Black Velvet” is for you! Grown and sold at the Award winning Two Tails Winery at Nana Glen, this wine demonstrates individuality.

blend of Chambourcin and Jacquez (Le Noir) grapes grown at the vineyard, this wine displays both varietal styles to perfection. With the combination of distinctive dark colouring, herbaceous aromas and black cherry, plum flavours of the Chambourcin, to the lush fruit sweetness of the Jacquez grapes, “Black Velvet” is created. Perfect with family and friends at a BBQ, or sit back and unwind after a hard day with this lush and deliciously sweet, mellow red wine. CHARACTERISTICS: This wine presents deep red colours with berry driven aromas. Ripe and lush, this wine is bursting with black cherry and plum flavours for a soft and

smooth finish. Low in tannin with a hint of oak. GOES WITH: game, Peking duck, BBQ ribs, gourmet sausages and grills. A match made in heaven with dark chocolate or blue cheese. COST: $35. AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery Cellar Door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen NSW. Open seven days a week, 10:30am 4:30pm; Saturday and Sunday from 8am. Phone: (02) 6654 3633. Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au

Black Hops “Frontyards” Cucumber & Mint Gose Fresh and ice cold on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this absolute summer smasher from the award winning brewing geniuses on the Gold Coast, Black Hops. With its contemporary twist on a classic German style gose, “Frontyards” is salty, tangy, tart and has an incredibly refreshing mix of cucumber and mint. An absolutely unique and fresh summer banger that will have you tasting it once and then unable to stop!

Coffs Coast focus 9

focusinterview.

Jacki James Jacki James and her sister, Kylie, are IDENTICAL TWINS WITH A 99.99% DNA MATCH! THEY HAVE AN INCREDIBLE TWIN CONNECTION, AND THEY ARE CURRENTLY WRITING A BOOK TOGETHER ABOUT IT. They have now spent many years living apart, as their jobs as Police Officers stationed Jacki here on the Coffs Coast and her sister in Outback Australia, so they decided after turning 50 it was time to re-connect and spend some time together walking the Camino Trail in Spain. 10 Coffs Coast focus

ey Jacki. Can you tell us how you came to live on the Coffs Coast? Hi! My husband and I moved to the Coffs Coast 25 years ago. We were both transferred here from Sydney through the Police Force. We had a 10 week old baby, and I was the first female Police Officer doing part-time Policing at Coffs Harbour in General Duties, working out on the truck. It was interesting how a country station managed this situation compared to the city. I was a designated Detective, but there had never been a female detective here in general Detectives. It’s great to see how women in Policing has changed over the years. You have a twin sister, Kylie, and you’re writing a book together about your connection. Can you tell us a bit about that connection and what it was like growing up as an identical twin? Yes, we are writing a book titled Reef and Beef. The book is about twins, touching on whether our behaviour has been influ-

enced by “nature” or identical medical and When we sat our IQ exam to join “nurture”. It is also health related incidencthe Police, we received the about the differences es. I was able to breastexact same IQ mark. We between living in the feed my nephew and were taken into a room Australian Outback hadn’t been pregnant at Police Headquarters, and coastal Australia. or breastfeeding for because they were so fascinated Kylie lives on over two years. We both with the results. 100,000 acres two received identical HSC hours northwest of results. In our day that Bourke. She taught mark was out of 500, her children via Disso to get the exact mark tance Education, and was freaky. I always the Royal Flying Doctor Service is her ambuconsidered myself to be the “brighter” twin, lance. Kylie and I are very close. Her husband but apparently I’m not! says, “If you marry one twin, you marry both You and Kylie were both Police Officers. twins”. We only manage to see each other Did you train together and join the Police Force at the same time? once a year in person, but we speak daily Yes, we joined the Police together. We (sometimes twice daily). We have two other sisters, but as any identical twin knows, there were the first female twins to join together. The first set of male twins joined two classes is a different bond. We have a 99.99% DNA ahead of us. When we sat our IQ exam to match, so Kylie is my walking, talking organ join the Police, we received the exact same donor (should I ever need one). IQ mark. We were taken into a room at You have had some interesting and Police Headquarters, because they were so unexplainable “twin moments”. Can you tell us about some of the most memorafascinated with the results. ble ones? There were lots of interesting cases with (Laughs). Kylie and I have had some “baddies”, where we confused them. We interesting ‘twin moments”. We have had were never stationed together, but we were

focusinterview.

in neighbouring districts. We were often asked to do undercover jobs together in Sydney, as most offenders would not suspect female twins as being Police Officers. Kylie was an undercover operative, which did make matters difficult when she was doing jobs with me being based out of Parramatta Detectives. You were both stationed in different towns. After spending so much time apart, you came together to walk the Camino Trail. What was that experience like? We were both stationed in Sydney for quite a while, and I was lucky enough to end up here on the Coffs Coast. Kylie transferred to Bourke and was the first female Detective our there. She ended up marrying a grazier and now lives on a big station out the back of Bourke (literally). When we turned 50, we decided we needed to do something special together. We had been trying to find a way to conclude our book and wanted to see what spending an extended period of time together without distractions would do to our relationship. We had not had time together alone for over 30 years. We had both recently seen the movie The Way directed by Emilio Estevez, starring Martin Sheen. We knew it had to be eventful, and

We had both recently seen the movie The Way directed by Emilo Estevez, starring Martin Sheen.

we thought spending 36 days walking We knew it had to be 799 km across Spain eventful, and we thought would be perfect. spending 36 days walking The “Camino” is a 799 km across Spain would pilgrimage that has be perfect. more fortunate than Kylie. been walked for over We have some great bush 1,000 years across walks on the Coffs Coast, Spain to the shrine so I loaded up my backpack of the Apostle Saint and walked the Crystal Showers falls and James. Historically, people walked the Camino Wonga Walks. Mount Warning on the Tweed for religious reasons. These days, people walk ranges was also a fantastic training ground, this route for many different reasons. A recent along with the Gumgali track at Korora. survey said 28% of pilgrims walked for reliWe are blessed with having the Ulidarra gious reasons, with the majority walking the National Park and the Bongil Bongil National Camino to get away from their daily life, to parks at our doorstep as well. Some days I connect with nature, health and exercise, or walked along the Link Road and down to the they were looking for a new challenge. Jetty. A varied training environment was ideal, How did you train for the walk? The walk is enormously varied. You start the and the Coffs Coast offered that. My poor sister only had her airstrip to walk walk trekking over the Pyrenees from France, on, and sometimes she attempted to walk to and continue walking westward across Spain her mailbox, which is a 40 minute car drive about 95 km south of the Spanish coast. from the main homestead. The terrain out Sometimes you’re walking in mountains; there is flat with thick red dirt, and she had to other times you will be walking in woodlands, fend off brown snakes and wild steers, along forests and open plains. You walk in the with the 40 degree heat. Her training did end country and through large cities; you walk in up assisting us, because on the first day of the modern and ancient Spain. The walking paths Camino we were chased by two wild pigs on vary from dirt tracks, old Roman roads, tar the Pyrenees. (Laughs). roads and bogged rain forests. I was much

What was it like having that extended period of time together again, just the two of you? It was very strange at first! It was interesting how much we’ve changed. Kylie’s country environment and my coastal environment have made our daily life habits much different. I am clearly more high maintenance, going regularly to hairdressers and beauticians. Because I can! Well, let’s face it. Unwanted body hair is not so much a problem on an outback cattle station. I am used to running on a schedule, and Kylie is used to living like a Spaniard, resting in the middle of the heat of the day and working late into the night. We quickly found walking about 1 km apart was perfect. (Laughs). But there were many times where I needed my sister right next to me to share in an amazing experience that I knew she would enjoy as much as me - in these moments, we didn’t need to speak. Thanks Jacki. Coffs Coast focus 11

HOMECOMING and

Dinner Show Tod Trappett from the LGBTIQ Coffs Connection Community group is putting on a COCO AND DIVA’S HOMECOMING DINNER AND SHOW EXTRAVAGANZA! We wanted to know so much more, so we sat down and chatted with Tod.

od, please tell us more - what is this show all about? Who are the stars, and why are they doing a Homecoming? This show is going to be absolutely fantastic! Coco Jumbo and Honey Moonshine are sisters and are coming home to perform a show not to be missed! Coco Jumbo is a local Coffs legend who won Coffs Coast Drag Idol and moved to Sydney, becoming somewhat of an overnight sensation! She is in high demand for shows and appearances. Honey Moonshine moved to Sydney and appears regularly in shows all over the city! They will also be joined by Polly Petrie, who is the mama of all the Sydney Drag Queens and was in Les Girls with Carlotta back in the day! She was also in the award-winning drag show in Sydney, Pollie Follies. We will also be welcoming back Glorious Mountains. Glorious has run Drag Idol and Karaoke at the Coffs Hotel for some years. She is a mentor and supporter of upcoming Drag Queens and is a star on the Coffs Coast, having performed and sung for many years at different events. You said this is a fundraiser - for whom? This event is a fundraiser for “Be Young & Proud” (Coffs Harbour /Bellingen) who are arranging their second camp this year to

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mentor and support our LGBTQI+ youth, and also PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) - “Keeping families together through acceptance and greater knowledge”. Where are you holding this great event, and who can come? This will be held on Saturday 6th April from 6pm, at the Surf Club Bar and Restaurant 23 Surf Club Rd, Coffs Harbour. Get all your friends together for a fun filled evening, with a great meal and lots of laughs! How do we get tickets, and what does this include? Through the Surf Club Bar and Restaurant Facebook page, and this will include nibbles on arrival, sit down main meal, dessert and canapés! Will people be able to see the Drag Queens Coco Jumbo, Honey Moonshine and Polly anywhere else over the weekend? Yes - there will be a chance to see Coco and the Divas on the Friday night of 5th April at the Twilight Food Market, with a special entertainment event called Dinner with the Divas. On the Saturday there will be a LGBTIQ+ youth event, and all this will be announced via our Facebook page LGBTIQ Coffs Connection & Community (and Surrounding Areas). Thanks Tod.

Sam Dawson of

PFLAG Coffs Coast. What is NIMBY short for?

t is an expression: Not in My Back and to gain acceptance. We all want to the Yard! It's a colloquialism signifying world to be kinder, and we can practice in one’s opposition to the locating of our own patch, our own backyard, I say! something considered undesirable Food for thought! in one’s neighbourhood. This got I have been busy as well delivering PFLAG me thinking - we often have many opinions cards around various businesses and about affairs everywhere, but what about organisations and meeting with people who keeping it in our backyard; what about can be added to the PFLAG resource list of putting the spotlight on our own local contacts. This list is available to everyone, community? and I welcome feedback and subjects you Community is connection and supporting would like addressed in my column, as I'm each other, so that’s why I see PFLAG as an here to information share. integral part of our own community. It's I am excited to announce that we have about information sharing - not being afraid some great events coming up here on the to stand up in our Coffs Coast that PFLAG community for what is really happy to be part we believe. This can of. I am excited to be be scary of course, as a part of Coco Jumbo there are so many ways and Divas' Homecoming It's about information now that people can Dinner and Show in April. sharing - not being attack and voice their This includes famous afraid to stand up in opinion, but I believe Drag Queens, and two our community for it's still important to are brothers who grew what we believe ... do so and to protect up here, and their mother others. This brings me has been an active to a recent encounter. member of PFLAG too. I had a wonderful I am also in talks with experience with a local the founder of PFLAG in man here who decided to use my Celebrant Australia, Shelly Argent OAM to come and services and make a loving commitment do a workshop here with all the parents and ceremony to his partner. friends. Watch this space! This was just the three of us, but so special Coffs Coast PFLAG (Parents and Friends of and loving. The card he gave me afterwards Lesbians And Gays) is a group of volunteers made me cry. It was a thank you for or allies who have either a child, friend or working as an Allie and giving a voice to the family member they love whom they want young ones here in our LGBTIQ community. to support in the best way they know how. He said it's people like me and the other PFLAG is here to give help, support and parents who truly make a difference with information to families and friends of all gay showing love and support. The more I listen people, right here on the Coffs Coast. pflagcoffscoast.com and enter into discussions in our community, PFLAGcoffcoast the more I am made aware of how hard it is 0417 861 045 to be “different” from the so called “norm”

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Coffs Coast focus 13

focusinterview.

When Kim Connolly learnt of THE EPIDEMIC OF SINGLE OLDER WOMEN BECOMING HOMELESS, SHE DECIDED SHE COULDN’T SIT BACK AND DO NOTHING. After much research and deliberation, she has now started building Tiny Homes as an affordable housing option for these women in need.

Homes Habitat

i Kim. Can you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? Thirty-two years ago we drove through Coffs Harbour, and it was the only place that was big enough to get a cappuccino but small enough for that country feel. When I finished uni in Sydney, my Canadian sister had moved to Valla with her family, so coffee and family needs were both met by moving to Coffs. You have started building Tiny Houses for women in need of affordable housing. Can you tell us how this idea first came to you? As a member of BPW (Business and Professional Women), I attended Affordable Housing Forums and learnt of the epidemic of older women becoming homeless. I just couldn’t talk about it anymore in good faith without doing something concrete, and BPW initially indulged my Tiny House obsession four years ago, when no one knew what a “Tiny” was, but later came on board to wholeheartedly support the Tiny House Village for Older Women concept. Why did you decide to go with Tiny Houses? What made you believe they were the best option? Older, single women are using their superannuation to pay their rents and when that money is gone, they can't pay their rents. Tiny Houses are a preventative measure. The average single woman I’m speaking to ends up with between $63,000 and $120,000 in their superannuation - not enough to buy a traditional home. Tiny Houses are designed by 14 Coffs Coast focus

OLDER, SINGLE WOMEN the person to suit their needs. These women ARE USING THEIR have worked all their lives SUPERANNUATION TO PAY Thanks to Nifty and (except when caring for THEIR RENTS AND WHEN with Brian’s words still family members) and are ringing in my ears, the THAT MONEY IS GONE, not used to needing to Tiny is more reinforced ask for help. Tiny Houses THEY CAN’T PAY THEIR than Grafton Jail, so are something a woman RENTS … TINY HOUSES ARE sturdiness. The cubic can do independently SOMETHING A WOMAN volume of the height of with pride. the ceiling affects our CAN DO INDEPENDENTLY What were some of psyche, so despite how the hurdles you faced WITH PRIDE. small the house looks on in making this idea a the outside, it feels big reality? on the inside. Materials The biggest hurdle must be light, because of was my husband, Brian weight restrictions, but need to create the feeling Hopwood. Tiny Houses are the only thing we’ve of being in a home, not a caravan. And finally, ever had marriage counselling over! He kept design of course, so it’s functional yet beautiful. trying to tell me that I couldn’t build them for In what ways can you adapt the houses to the costs I was envisioning; he told me that make them age appropriate, for example? using the spare time of my eldest son, Neeson, Our priorities change at different times in our who isn’t a builder, wouldn’t work, and he lives. When we’re older, we want to experience was afraid that if I did it on the cheap with life, not spend our lives cleaning, maintaining unqualified (although trying very hard) family and worrying about finances. This demographic labour, that my Tiny House would hit the road is why our second Tiny House under construction and fall apart, killing some poor unsuspecting now has the bedroom on the ground floor, with commuter. ease of access for older people. Of course - he was right. But the need What benefits do you hope people will get was still there for older women, and I was out of these houses? determined to get it built, no matter what it My goal is to create Tiny House Villages, took. When he finally understood my village starting with one mostly for older women. Dr vision, he came on board and I was able to hire Sandy Darab and Dr Yvonne Hartman (speakers a qualified builder who also has a passion for at a BPW Housing forum) described five things Tiny Houses - “Nifty” Nathan Martin. that older, single women want: security of tenure; What are some of the key features or things a place of their own; somewhere for visiting you consider most important about the Tiny grandkids, a pet; and a garden. A Tiny House Houses you build?

Village would tick all these boxes. The outlay to buy a “Tiny” is much less, and I’m working with a bank that is creating lending packages for older women. The village concept alleviates land purchase cost and increases quality of life, allowing people to age in their own place in a supportive community. Outside the village, Tiny Houses are one answer to our affordable housing crisis here on the Coffs Coast. Where can people live in these Tiny Houses? Do you need to own land? Are there many restrictions around where they can be placed? Because a Tiny House is effectively a caravan, it falls under those Council rules which state that you can have a “member of the owner’s household” live in your back yard-full time or you could have two caravans “so long as they are not occupied for more than two days at a time and are not occupied for more than 60 days in total”. If you own land, you need a DA to be allowed to live in your “Tiny” while your big house is being built. Personally, I hope we can make Tiny Homes a house type so someone doesn’t think like I did and build a cheap, dangerous, road hazard! Yes Brian, you were right (but so was I). Where can we find out more about Tiny Habitat Homes? We’re open from 11 - 2 Wednesday to Sunday, or by appointment. We’re looking for people to be part of the creation of the Tiny House Village Co-operative now. Contact Kim for more details. Thanks Kim.

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Coffs Coast focus 15

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

A P R I L

2 0 1 9

Drew McAlister and Band

Home is Where We Park It Tour. Drew McAlister is an Australian country musician. McAlister was one half of the duo McAlister Kemp. His solo album, Black Sky debuted at #99 on the ARIA album charts.

BWN Networking Event

Succeeding in business is all about making human connections. Anyone can buy a ticket to a networking event, but what you can't buy is relationships. Guest speakers: Joanne Vines and Sam Dawson. When 4th April. Where Plantation Hotel Ladies Lounge. Time From 6pm to 7:30pm. More information info@bwn.org.au

Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Swims

The Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Swims are a fun, charity fundraising event offering participants a choice of distances catering for both the novice and the more competitive, with a 600 m swim around the jetty, 2,000 m swim across the harbour and fun races for children, all held inside our beautiful, protected harbour. When 7th April. Where Jetty Foreshore, Coffs Harbour. More information www.villagesports.com.au

Coco And Divas' Homecoming Dinner And Show Extravaganza! Coco is a local Coffs legend who won Coffs Coast Drag Idol and moved to Sydney, becoming somewhat of an overnight sensation! She is in high demand for shows and appearances. She will be on stage alongside Honey Moonshine, Polly Petrie and Glorious Mountains. When Saturday 6th April from 6pm. Where Surf Club Bar and Restaurant - 23 Surf Club Rd, Coffs Harbour. Tickets Through the Surf Club Bar and Restaurant Facebook page. Includes nibbles on arrival, sit down main meal, dessert, canapés.

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When Saturday 20th April. Where Sawtell RSL. Time From 7:30pm. Cost FREE.

Two Tails by The Sea

The Shell at Nautilus and Two Tails Wines Presents … “Two Tails by The Sea”. Come along for a jam packed night, with mouth watering flavours, entertainment and drinks. Two Tails Wines Will be catering, with some hand picked delicious tapas, and drinks will be served by The Shell at Nautilus. When 20th April. Where The Shell at Nautilus, 8 Solitary Islands Way, Sapphire. Tickets www.stickeytickets.com.au More information Facebook @theshellatnautilus

Toni Child’s Retrospective The Toni Child’s Retrospective Tour marks the 30 year anniversary of union. Toni will celebrate this very momentous anniversary with a retrospective of her work, featuring hits such as Don’t Walk Away, Stop Your Fussin’, I’ve Got To Go Now and Because You’re Beautiful. Emmy Winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist, Toni is known for her powerful voice and inspiring independent spirit. She has opened for Bob Dylan and performed duets with greats such as Al Green and Peter Gabriel. When 20th April. Where Jetty Memorial Theatre. Visit www.jettytheatre.com

Will Sparks At 23 years young, Will Sparks has cemented his position at the forefront of the globally loved Melbourne sound. Countless original productions have spent weeks inside the Beatport top 10, in addition to signature remixes of global hits such as Major Lazer’s Be Together, Robin Thicke’s Blurred Lines and The Chainsmokers’ Selfie. When 24th April. Where Coffs Hotel. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS!

Barney

Miller Classic

The Barney Miller Classic is an annual charity surf event held at Sawtell Main Beach and run by the Sawtell Boardriders Club. We have approximately 150 surfers from up and down the east coast who compete in 13 diﬀerent divisions, ranging from Under 10s to Over 50s.

he contest itself represents community and the importance of creating a support system to help you through the tough times. I believe that if a group of strangers can lend a hand, whether it’s through volunteering, financial or product sponsorship, buying raffle tickets or bidding on auction items, or simply just showing up to the event itself, that has the power to instil hope in the recipient and their family and lets them know they are not alone in this. This year we are celebrating 20 years of the event, and it is something I am honoured to have shared with my community. It may bear my name, but it is Sawtell that makes it what it has become today. Where did the idea for the event come from? The Barney Miller Charity Surf Classic was started by a good friend of mine, Joel “Tubby” Bath back in 1999 after my accident. He created the contest for his Year 12 Design and Technology Project for his HSE. From the first event, all proceeds were made for me, and then I decided to keep it running as an annual event, choosing a different recipient each year who had suffered a spinal injury. 2019’s recipient is 24 year old Jessica Collins, an Iron Woman and Champion Australian Life Saving athlete who broke her neck mid last year surfing at Snapper Rocks. What are some of the weekend highlights? To celebrate 20 years we have a weekend packed with good times and great opportunities for everyone to get involved. Thursday 28th March - Proximity Movie Screening Sawtell Cinema, 7pm - $12.50. Friday 29th March - ‘70s Black Tie Gala Auction - Sawtell

RSL, 6pm - $75. Saturday 30th March - Barney’s Sawtell Street Party from 4pm - Live Music from Sea Foam, Wheels & The Wavemen and Joseph’s Coat. Sunday 31st March - Presentation at the Sawtell Hotel 4pm. Contest runs at Sawtell Main Beach, Friday 29th - Sunday 31st, 7am - 4pm. Tell us about the Gala Night. This year we have partnered with the Sawtell RSL to host the charity action gala. To keep it fun, we have themed the event ‘70s Black Tie. It will be a sit down event with a three course meal, live entertainment, raffles and a live auction. Tickets are available as singles or in tables of ight. It’s set to be a great night for a great cause. Who are some of the sponsors of the event? We are very fortunate to have continued support and sponsorship from multiple brands and businesses, both local and international. The biggest thanks goes to our incredible committee. Honestly, this event would not run without the help and dedication of our team - Ged O’Sullivan, Julie-Ann Willis, Phil Klaus, Dom and Mel Gaud, Bec Mooney, Nic Browne, Karen Schindler, Carly Osborne, Hannah Davis and the rest of the Sawtell Boardriders. They all volunteer their time, talents and contacts, and they are the driving force behind the event’s success. Where can we find out more? If you would like to get involved by providing sponsorship, making a donation or coming to the events, go to www.barneymillerclassic.org or sawtellrsl.com.au or email me on barneymiller17@gmail.com

Coffs Coast focus 17

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Sophie Bird of Wrecked Vintage

COURTNEY WRIGHT BEACH WAY AROMATICS

Beach Way Aromatics burst on to my radar just over a year ago, but since then, founder Courtney has experienced exponential growth, all from her lounge room in Sapphire Beach! With four kids to boot and under 30 years of age, she’s a force to be reckoned with.

ow did Beach Way Aromatics begin? Skincare and aromatherapy have always been a passion of mine. While moving houses, I stumbled upon my diploma work and re-read my notes.

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My ideas grew from there. I wanted my range to focus on hydration, even skin tone and be gentle enough to be suitable for all ages and all skin types. My husband has been my biggest supporter, right from the start. He knew I wanted

to start my own skincare label and has been my a year of trialling different products to finally sounding board throughout this exciting process. launch. I haven’t looked back since. I’m always You’ve just grown and grown in the last adding new products to Beach Way Aromatics. 12 months, now hosting a slew of amazing Let’s talk balance (or lack thereof) - you have skincare and wellness products. What are four young kids, a booming business and a your top three items from your range? It’s family business as well. How old are all your crazy how much my business has grown in babies, and how many hours’ sleep do you such a short amount of time! I’m so thankful get a night? Ha ha; it’s definitely full on! My babies are that people are noticing my brand, trying it and six, five, two and almost LOVING it! My top three one. I run on minimal skincare products are sleep - four hours a night. the Neroli Exfoliator, It would have bothered Midnight Repair Serum It’s crazy how much my me six years ago, but I’ve and Skincare Overhaul business has grown in such learned to deal! I work Kit (five full sized a short amount of time! when everyone in my products to cover all your I’M SO THANKFUL house is sleeping; that way needs). THAT PEOPLE it doesn’t interfere with My top three ARE NOTICING MY family time. I’m usually still aromatherapy products BRAND, TRYING IT up working at 3am when are the Deep Sleep AND LOVING IT! my husband gets ready for (available for adults and work. babies), Little Teeth (for Where can our readers teething babies) and buy/try/enjoy your Slumber Mist. My biggest products? focus here was aiding little ones to relax into a If you want to enjoy the experience locally, peaceful sleep, while taking the stress of night Wrecked Vintage is the place! Sophie has time away. You are a certified beauty therapist; how did most of my range there for you to try. I have a shoppable Instagram @beach_way_aromatics. your training and experience have a part in The website is beach-way-aromatics.com for you creating your own skincare? I kept all my those of you who enjoy shopping from your course work! I studied under one of Australia’s lounge room, with wine and without pants! leading aromatherapists/beauty therapists and **Hot tip, the Intensive Eye Cream is THE loved picking her brain. Everything I needed to BEST!** start was right in front of me. It took me about

Flirt Adult Stores Hi Ayla; tell us about the business. Flirt Adult Stores were established in Bathurst in 2003. We now have seven stores, making us the largest adult retail chain in regional NSW. Our stores are located in Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Port Macquarie, Woy Woy and Coffs Harbour. How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors? We pride ourselves on not only offering the highest quality toys and friendliest staff, but supporting our local communities and charities. We are committed to promoting sexual health and are proud to provide a safe zone for all, no matter their gender or sexuality. Flirt staff believe that having sex and feeling free to express sexuality should no longer be a taboo subject. We help bring sex out of the shadows and into the future. What community involvement do you have to offer? We offer customers a unique opportunity to participate in our “Kinky on the Coast” sex education workshops held throughout the year. Our resident Sex Coach, MisJif, presents a wide variety of topics in our stores. To find out more, please have a look at your local store’s Facebook page. To celebrate us, let our staff know you have read all about us here, and we will give you 20% off your next purchase. Join our loyalty program - and see you in store.

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Coffs Coast focus 19

BBQ Pork Rib served with seasoned steak fries & slaw from the Hoey Moey.

20 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

Fungus Humongous

NIKKI SHONE Nikki Shone has spent most of her life living here on the Coﬀs Coast and as an adventurous and curious person, she has delved into many diﬀerent career paths.

he has studied both horticulture and small business management, and is now using those skills to run Fungus Humongous Gourmet Mushrooms - her one-woman business where she grows, harvests and distributes her chemical-free gourmet mushroom varieties. Here she tells us all about what she grows, her vision, and how it all came to be. Hi Nikki. How did you come to live and work here on the Coffs Coast? I was born and raised in the Coffs region, and I have lived in just about every suburb around here. My father is a designer/builder in the local area, so we moved around a lot growing up. I love exploring new skills and trades, and subsequently I have delved into many different careers. I’ve been a SCUBA Instructor, licensed skipper, first-aid trainer, horticulturist, and even a gelato scooper! I’ve caught the travel bug many times, but have always returned humbled - there is definitely no place like home. Can you tell us about some of the mushroom varieties you grow? I grow a wide range of oyster mushrooms season to season, and this allows me to produce all year round. In the warmer months I grow varieties like pink, yellow and tan, and in the winter - blue, grey, white and Phoenix oyster mushrooms are available. Other gourmet fungi include King Oyster, Poplar, Shiitake logs (to grow your own) and even a strain of Oyster Mushroom found growing wild in the Northern Rivers. I will soon be cultivating some varieties that are known to have substantial health properties, such as "Lions Mane", a nootropic that has remarkable effects on brain function

and is being trialled in the Harbour and the Great prevention and treatment Barrier Reef for over AS A ONE-WOMAN of Alzheimer's Disease seven years, I really felt SHOW, I RUN EVERY and dementia. Beneficial drawn to work on the FACET OF THIS mushrooms like these are land. Retiring my sea UNIQUE SMALL popular in the US, Europe legs, I took a course BUSINESS, AND I’M and Asia, but have only in horticulture - an old PROUD TO SAY THAT recently become recpassion of mine. Anyone FUNGUS HUMONGOUS ognised in Australia. who knows me knows IS FREE OF ALL What sets you apart that I am an insatiably SINGLE-USE PLASTICS! from other mushroom curious person. I might growers? not know where I put Well, as a one-woman my keys, but I do know show, I run every facet how crumpets are made of this unique small business, and I’m proud and that wombats poop cubes! to say that Fungus Humongous is free of all One night, I had a sudden realisation that single-use plastics! It’s common practice in the I had no idea how mushrooms were grown industry to grow gourmet mushrooms in large commercially. I stayed up all night watching disposable plastic bags, and even the spawn is video after video, scrolling through forums, cultivated in heavy duty plastic. Instead, I have and by the morning - I was hooked. I began repurposed food-grade buckets and stacked growing Oyster Mushrooms armed with a them into towers, and spawn is cultivated in bucket, some mulch, an esky, a sink plug, glass mason jars. and a fish tank heater. Before long, my room To ensure the mushrooms are grown in a was full of buckets, and I was dashing home chemical-free environment, I use steam and from work to check on their progress, and elbow grease to clean, and all packaging used that’s when I thought, “I have to make this my is from recycled paper and cardboard. Due to full-time job!” I enrolled in a Cert IV in small the locality, mushrooms can be grown to order business management, where I assessed the and delivered on the same day they are picked. viability of my idea; I dived in headfirst, and Fungus Humongous is striving to be completeFungus Humongous was born. ly self-sufficient, catching its own rainwater Can you tell us a bit about the process of and practicing a closed loop system - where growing mushrooms? the mushrooms are grown on a what would It begins with mycelium (root structure of otherwise be waste product and returned to the mushroom) grown on to grain and then the environment as compost. expanded into larger quantities to make mushHow did you come to grow mushrooms? room spawn. I use 100% certified organic What sparked your interest in this in sugar cane mulch as substrate; it’s a fantastic particular? food source for Oyster Mushrooms and readily After working on the water both in Coffs available as waste from the sugar industry.

Once the substrate is prepared, mushroom spawn is added and mixed by hand, then packed into clean buckets with holes drilled in the sides. After incubating in a dark, dry and warm room, the mushrooms begin to emerge from the holes looking for light, oxygen and cool, humid air. However, even with the perfect environment, fungi are fickle and unpredictable. Weather, temperature, season and even the moon phase influences the way they grow, but if you are lucky and the stars align - you can literally watch them grow before your eyes! There is quite an interesting story about the semi trailer you grow your mushrooms in; can you tell us about that? Yes, I grow all my mushrooms in a semi trailer! In another life it was a live-in roadshow carnival truck. It travelled Australia with the whole family onboard, showing their games, toys and prizes and was abandoned for years in SA before landing itself a new owner - a local resident of Bonville. With grand plans of turning it into a granny flat on wheels, the project sat on the backburner, until the owner regretfully put it up for sale. As a twist of fate, I was just about to purchase a shipping container for the mushroom farm the very same day that I saw the advertisement. It took a whole team of my incredible friends and family to help renovate it into a insulated, sealed and hygienic growing space, and now the old carnival truck has a new lease on life as a mobile fungi farm Fungus Humongous! Where can we find out more? 0431 069 991 Fungus Humongous fungus_humongous fungushumongous23@gmail.com Coffs Coast focus 21

THE COFFS COAST GIG GUIDE

3RD APRIL

12TH APRIL

Owen Shannon - The Coast Hotel

Marshall Okell & the Fro - Seaview Tavern

The Ocelots - Element Bar

Raku the Soul Man - Hoey Moey DJ Bisho & DJ Rjay - The Coast Hotel

Heathers the Musical - Jetty Theatre (running ‘til 14th April)

Craig Freeman - Element Bar

Lauren Edwards - Element Bar

Mamma Mia The Concert - Sawtell RSL Minnie Marks - Seaview Tavern

Troubadours - Sawtell RSL

DJ Todd James - Hoey Moey

MissCheif - Seaview Tavern

At the Bar and DJ Rjay - The Coast Hotel

Shannon Hunter - Hoey Moey

Nicks - The Sounds of Stevie - The Moonee Tavern

DJ Bisho & DJ Flakey - The Coast Hotel

Jaxon Pollard - Element

6TH APRIL

Who Wants to be a Rockstar feat; Benny Black Band - Seaview Tavern DJ RJay - Hoey Moey Car Ram Rod & DJ Flakey - The Coast Hotel

FFS COAST

14TH APRIL

Jess Swilks, Marshall Okell & The Fro - Hoey Moey

APR 01 IL 2

Jesse Morris - Element Bar

CO E

5TH APRIL

13TH APRIL

4TH APRIL

Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar UFC 236 from 11am - Toormina Hotel

17TH APRIL

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

Coast Hotel

26TH APRIL

7TH APRIL

18TH APRIL

Benny Black - Element Bar

Who’s Charlie - Seaview Tavern

Vanessa Lea & Road Train - Seaview Tavern

Quick Fix - The Moonee Tavern

Peking Duk - Coffs Harbour Amphitheatre

Katie Brooke - Hoey Moey

D’Boyzos - Hoey Moey

Easter Wonderland - Toormina Hotel

Benny Black, Electrik Lemonade, DJ Danger Waves - Hoey Moey

DJ Bisho & DJ Flakey - The Coast Hotel

Peter Barry - The Coast Hotel

DJ Marcus from 8pm - Toormina Hotel

Rod Deighton - Element Bar

Peter Barry - Element Bar

19TH APRIL

Jaz, Bullhorn & DJ Helmy - Hoey Moey

Steve Bennett - Seaview Tavern

Chris Grieve - Element Bar

Dino Jag - Element Bar

DJ RJay - Hoey Moey

Andrew Smiley Kids show - The Moonee Tavern

One Night Stand & DJ Blakey - The Coast Hotel

Dean Sharkey - Element Bar

Michael Bryers - Toormina Hotel

10TH APRIL

Billie-Jo Porter - The Coast Hotel Josh Matheson - Element Bar

11TH APRIL

Tony J King - Element Bar Boo Seeka - Coffs Hotel

22 Coffs Coast focus

Harvey - Element Bar

20TH APRIL

21ST APRIL

Toni Child’s Retrospective - Jetty Theatre

24TH APRIL

Drew McAlister - Sawtell RSL

Josh Matheson - The Coast Hotel

The Groove Robbers - Seaview Tavern

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

27TH APRIL

Chris Wiggins - Element Bar The Funky Monkeys Kids - The Moonee Tavern

28TH APRIL

DJ Dangerwaves - Hoey Moey

25TH APRIL

Josh Matheson, LoueyHowell n FUNKATU

The Aftershock of Aus Rock & DJ Blakey - The

Kailey Pallas - Element Bar

Madelyn - Element Bar

Coffs Coast focus 23

G O L D H E I S T

With an amazing line up of local musical talent and a vibrant atmosphere, Bobby Jack’s Festival at Walcha is set to rock the town on April 13. GOLDHEIST (aka Hester Fraser) is just one of the acts we’ll be able to see on the day …

i Hester. We last spoke back in 2017, when you were just about to launch your album, REALM. How's life been treating you since? Life is great! Being a musician is a constant adventure, writing and performing, travelling to new places, meeting new people. Artistically, how do you repeat the success of an album like REALM? This is an interesting question ... I think I have to consider why I make music in the first place. For me, it's not about a ground-breaking new musical technique or a song unlike anything every heard before. For me, it's about a message or a story, using music to speak to and connect with my audience in some capacity. In this respect, there is always somewhere to go! There's always another story, another issue we need to talk about, another experience to relate. I also love working with other musicians and instrumentalists - some of the music I am currently working on features some beautiful work from some amazing artists; working with other people opens up your music and takes you down artistic paths you never dreamed of before, so you’re constantly creating new and magical things. We'll be welcoming you to New England for Bobby Jack's Festival in April. How much are you looking forward to playing to this crowd? Home crowds are the best crowds! I am so grateful for the sustained support I have received across my career from the New England, where I grew up. Life as a musician is tough - there's a lot more to it than just the glossy, glorious

24 Coffs Coast focus

time on the stage! You face rejection every day, you are running a small business with all the management quirks and complications that includes, you're often on the road (trying not to live on Maccas!), you never have any money (and when you do, it goes straight into the studio for the next project!) and every Saturday night is a work day. Home crowds remind you where you've come from, where you're going, and why you love what you do, despite the less glamourous aspects of the lifestyle. What are some of the songs you've chosen to perform especially for this festival? I will be performing some old favourites - Dust, to remind our farmers and regional communities that we understand how difficult their jobs are during drought, and that we value everything they do. You Were There - a call to break down taboos surrounding mental health issues, and to reach out to loved ones in support, that it's ok to not be ok, and seeking help is always a good idea! Also, some new pieces - Wayfarer, a song I wrote about a journey with artist James Needham - I'd always felt like such a country girl until I visited the outback and felt like a complete tourist! I realised there is so much more of this ancient country to explore; perhaps I am a Grey Nomad at heart! Where can we find out more about you? Search GOLDHEIST to find my website, Facebook, Instagram and Youtube, or find my music on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, Soundcloud, Bandcamp ... I'm everywhere! Bobby Jack’s Festival - 13th April at Walcha Showgrounds. Visit: www.bobbyjacks.com.au for tickets.

Coffs Coast focus 25

Twenty-nineteen Launch Party

Thank you to everyone who supported our 2019 Women In Business edition and coming along to our fabulous launch party at the Plantation Hotel.

The Focus Team xoxo

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Brent Culkin

G e n e r a l M a n a g e r of the C o a s t H o t e l

meet a

local Meet the newly appointed General Manager of the Coast Hotel, Brent Culkin. BRENT HAS AN EXTENSIVE BACKGROUND IN HOSPITALITY, AND HE HAS SOME BIG PLANS TO IMPROVE THE COAST HOTEL. FOCUS had a chat with Brent to find out more …

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hat is your Manager for the Coast Hotel, and I’m honoured connection to the to be working for Michael Cherote, who has such Coffs Coast? a heart for the Coffs Coast and all it can offer Coffs is part of who to both the local community and beyond. I’ve I am! I was raised in always loved the Coast Hotel and considered it coffs from two years to be one of the most inviting venues in Coffs, old, and it is the place I can easily say I will always with its chilled, elegant outdoor area and its return to, no matter where my life may take me. amazing atmosphere; that’s why I jumped at When I was 19 I moved away and spent several the opportunity to come back home and make years in Sydney and on my mark on such a great the Gold Coast, trying to venue. I am also very lucky further my career, but to be to have such a dedicated honest I always knew that team behind me, who have Coffs was place where I’d invested into the vision of It hasn’t taken long to settle back want to raise my family. I seeing this venue reach its into life with friends, family and wanted my children to have full potential. Stay tuned … the amazing lifestyle that is Coffs the same great experiences The best is yet to come! Harbour. I definitely feel I had whilst growing up Tell us what you've been blessed to call Coffs home here. With my eldest son doing recently. again. It is not until you leave starting kindergarten Prior to moving home, or travel that you realise how this year, I jumped at the I was the Operations lucky we are. opportunity to move back Manager for the Rydges to the Coffs Coast - who Hotels group in Port wouldn’t! And it hasn't Macquarie, overseeing taken long to settle back two properties, The Beach into life with friends, family and the amazing House and the Rydges Hotel which included the lifestyle that is Coffs Harbour. I definitely feel Zebu Bar and Grill and over 80 staff. This was a blessed to call Coffs home again. It is not until you great experience, and one I’m very grateful for. It leave or travel that you realise how lucky we are. gave me insight into another side of the industry, Tell us about your role at the Coast Hotel. and I gained invaluable experience overseeing a I’m excited to be the newly appointed General busy café, cocktail bar and fine dining restaurant

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- not to mention the large conferencing and events we would hold, and an extremely busy casual dining venue, the Beach House. Most of my experience previously had been in the pub scene and entertainment venues, so it was great to be able to develop my skills in other areas. What changes have you implemented? So far we’ve updated our TAB area with the introduction of some new technology, with the focus on delivering a better customer experience. We have also invested into our beer garden, with the addition of new furnishings and extra lighting to really highlight this relaxing beautiful area. We have also introduced a new cocktail list, with some exciting new cocktails that I’m sure our guests will love. And, we’ve also added some new craft beers, so no matter what your taste is, I’m confident the Coast has what you’re looking for. Our main focus now is to exceed our customers’ expectations and provide a great experience for all our guests. Aside from the bar experience, it would be an injustice for me not to mention that we also have a beautiful dining room headed up by the amazing Head Chef, Shaun Pilley. Shaun is one of the most talented and passionate chefs I have ever had the pleasure of working with. He has an extensive resumé covering a range of five star hotels and resorts and has recently worked for the past six and a half years at Latitude 30. Shaun’s devotion and passion for excellence is why we have the quality of a high class dining experience, without the normally associated costs. It’s always inspiring to see how much the wait staff feel so proud to deliver the delicious food that Shaun and his team serve. What plans do you have for 2019?

Certain areas of the venue will be receiving a facelift and It is so important to take refurbishment, so stay a step back whilst tuned and watch this working in a role that space. We will also be can be quite demanding looking at booking and consuming and some exciting new balance your time acts and introducing between work and the ones you some new midweek love; family is everything. offerings. Have you got any specials and promotions Then, on Friday and Saturday nights we have throughout the year? a happy hour for cocktails and spirits from 8 We have a new and exciting Monday 10pm. promotion, “Industry Mondays” - great specials, What is your greatest achievement? with burgers, wings and loaded fries all $10 In regards to my working career, I think I’ve each, plus some tap beer (including cider) for achieved success in all my roles, but I do believe $5; throw in $1 pool, and you’ve got a great my greatest achievements are yet to come! Monday night. In my personal life I would say my greatest My favourite promotion is our Wednesday achievement would have to be my family! My night “Cocktails, Crafts and Acoustics”; we’ve beautiful partner, Patricia, who has constantly got some amazing talented musicians playing in supported me with every endeavour, and my the big garden, and our whole cocktail list for two boys - Jaxon and Max. All three are a the evening is $10. We have some great craft beer and premium wine specials as well, and our continual reminder of why I strive to be my best. It is so important to take a step back whilst chef, Shaun has made an amazing pizza menu working in a role that can be quite demanding with some gourmet offerings and antipasto and and consuming and balance your time between cheese share plates. This is the perfect night for work and the ones you love; family is everything. group gatherings and events for anyone after a What is the best advice you have received? midweek catch up. This is a hard one. So many things come to Thursday night we have some great steak and mind, but one piece of advice that I always ribs specials for anyone to enjoy whilst watching remember came from one of my old karate Thursday night footy on our big screens. senseis. When you see something new or a Our Monday to Friday happy hour has all our different way of doing things, take in the good tap beers (including craft) for just $5, $5 wines and leave out the bad. We are always growing and $7 cocktails on tap.

and evolving better ways to do things. You might think you know everything about a certain area, but don’t be close-minded to think you can’t improve on that. Everyone has something to offer, and you might be surprised what you can learn from people you wouldn’t expect to learn from. “Take the good, leave the bad”... Either that, or, “The only time to set the bar low is for limbo.” Ha Ha. What business leaders do you look up to? I think previously I would’ve said Richard Branson, but more recently former Kmart CEO Guy Russo. The way he turned Kmart around into the juggernaut it is today is amazing. His business model of having a great product that’s value for money and a strong team culture are the most important things in any business. He also had the simple formula of a Good, Better, Best product range, instead of having 20 lines of the same product - which can confuse customers. Thanks Brent. Coffs Coast focus 29

“An hour long show of explosive stunts and foot-stomping music” - Weekend Notes

hat do you get when you combine a stellar international cast consisting of a two time World Champion BMX Flatlander, two World Champion breakdancers, an internationally acclaimed basketball freestyler, a World Record holding roue cyr artist and a mulit-award winning drummer and composer? A radical urban circus! 360 ALLSTARS is a phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation, connecting the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus. But what was the inspiration behind the reinvention of the modern circus that is, 360 ALLSTARS? We chat with director, multi-award winning drummer and composer Gene Peterson about producing, directing and showcasing 360 ALLSTARS. The incentive to create 360 ALLSTARS was spurred by the success of my two previous shows ‘Gene Peterson Live’ and ‘Loop The Loop’. Both received an overwhelmingly positive response from audiences and venues alike, and with the experience gained from producing smaller shows, I felt ready to jump in the deep end and have a go at creating a bigger production - no restrictions, no limits; just “awesome”! Removing limitations allows you to question everything and dream big! It was like giving myself permission to think like a kid in a candy store and ignore the realities and restrictions that you learn to accept as an adult. Why should 360 ALLSTARS settle for any old BMX 30 Coffs Coast focus

rider? ...let’s get the world champion! In fact, let’s find out who’s the best in the world at every one of these art forms, and see if we can get them! It probably wasn’t the most cost-effective choice, but it was the decision to remove these logistical and financial parameters and put the art first that has made the show successful. The same went for production values. We definitely didn’t hold back! 360 ALLSTARS has an amazing lighting design, a killer live soundtrack, and stunning video projections displayed across three video screens. I wanted every ingredient of the show to be spectacular in its own right. From day one, there was a really wonderful energy, and enthusiasm from everyone. We placed a huge focus on having a good time and the cast were so excited and eager to be involved in the production and to create something special. When working with such a phenomenal cast of athletes, performers and musicians, each of whom are at the top of their field in their given art forms, it really wasn’t difficult! Five years on, several hundred shows later and a few world tours, everyone still loves performing the show. We’ve become a genuine, tight-knit little family, really apparent to the audience. That said, 360 ALLSTARS is a difficult show to produce and perform. We routinely face obstacles requiring creative thinking from everyone. For instance, finding ways to have the artists collaborating on stage was a definite challenge. It was quite comical... you’ve got a world champion in one art form who is a

total amateur at another! One moment they’re pulling off mind-blowing stunts, and the next they’re being a complete beginner! We definitely had to be tactful to find common ground between various disciplines and build relationships between the different art forms that were achievable and effective. I’m proud to say we’ve created a really great show. It’s often said that if you’re having fun on stage, the audience will be having fun with you, and the 360 ALLSTARS performance exemplifies this statement. A magnificent, colourful and astonishing expression of a generation that has reinvented public performance, 360 ALLSTARS is a revolutionary production that will leave you dizzy with excitement. A must see!

CAST LIST PETER SORE Two Time World Champion BMX Flatlander B-BOY SETTE Australian Champion Break-Dancer B-BOY LEEROK World Champion Break-Dancer BAVO DELBEKE World Renowned Basketball Freestyler ROWAN THOMAS Guinness World Record Holding Roue Cyr Artist BEAU MONGA NZ’s ‘X Factor’ winning MC & Loop Artist GENE PETERSON Multi Award Winning Drummer and Composer

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Tipping

Kai Tipping has lived all over, but the dream of living an off-grid country lifestyle drew him to move from the city to Bellingen. HE HAS BEEN A MUSICIAN ALL HIS LIFE, COORDINATING PERFORMANCES AND PARADES AT VARIOUS FESTIVALS AND EVENTS, and teaching drumming in community groups and in schools all around Australia.

e believes music is a way of bringing people together, often from all different walk of life, and spreading positive vibes throughout our community. What brought you to the Coffs Coast? I was living in Sydney with my partner and our two kids, before we moved here. We’d lived in Sydney, Melbourne, and Newcastle, but it was that off-the-grid lifestyle we wanted. We’d visited Bellingen before and we wanted to live in an alternative community, so we ended up doing five years just outside of Bello, off grid, growing our own food and totally living the hippie dream! What got you into drumming? When did that all start? Generations ago, really! I always had music in the house growing up; dad’s a poet, mum’s a painter. Going to Woodford Folk Festival, festivals in Byron Bay, definitely influenced me. I moved out of home quite early, and I saw a guy busking, and so I literally quit my job as a dishwasher, and became a street busker with a jembe, a didge and pan drum at 17 years old. I managed to support myself living in a big city doing that twice a week. How would you describe your style of drumming? Well, I always loved a drum kit, but I was particularly drawn to world music. I think of our record collection, as a kid we always had a lot of Lady Blacksmith Mambazo and Santana,

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just a lot of really interesting Trinidad Steelpan. I’ve always had a fascination with that (it’s an acoustic instrument invented last century), so when I studied music at MIT in Melbourne, the Trinidad Steelpan was my instrument; I majored in Tune Percussion. You do a fair bit of teaching here on the Coffs Coast; who and what do you teach? I have community classes most nights of the week, one at Nambucca at the Surf Club, one in Bellingen Memorial Hall on Thursday evenings, one at a warehouse in Raleigh in the industrial estate. I’ve also done school tours, mostly throughout NSW, but also parts of regional Victoria, little bits of Queensland, and a tour to Adelaide too, when I was performing with Afro Moses.The school workshops were really fun, but when I first moved up here I was really lucky to become an arts program coordinator for an NGO, funded through Youth Opportunities. And that felt really good to be able to work with kids on a consistent basis, because with a lot of the touring I’d done, you only meet the kids once. That became creating performance groups for events; at the moment I’m working with Raleigh Primary School, because they’re going to perform at the Bellingen Show. I just went out to Chrysalis Steiner School and did a workshop with them, and I’ve also done lots of stuff in the high schools with anti-bullying or social skills programs. What do you think people get out of the

I GUESS IT’S ALSO workshops that you the festival ran, and LEARNING A NEW do? they’d give us about SKILL, ALTHOUGH For the groups, just 100 tickets, so I’d get to THAT’S NOT EVEN seeing each other on bring all my buddies, the REALLY THE FOCUS a week to week level, whole gang. We’d have (THE DRUMMING); really connects people dancers, stilt walkers, IT’S ACTUALLY MORE together. I guess it’s also costumes, giant puppets, JUST ABOUT COMING learning a new skill, and the drummers; that TOGETHER AND BEING although that’s not even has been phenomenal! PART OF THE GROUP ... really the focus (the At the Great Escape drumming); it’s actually Festival we got to play more just about coming after Fishbone and together and being walk the crowd to part of the group, which often ends up as a Ziggy Marley! Artlands bi-annual Regional performance. For instance, some locals might Art Conference just got me in to work on remember the Bellingen River Festival; where community engagement, where I toured a we all got dressed up and paraded across the bunch of schools and pulled together all these bridge, or Falls Festival had us there parading students into a parade performance group to and got us up on stage, even when Manu perform at their opening event. Chao finished playing at Sydney Festival and Coffs Harbour Harmony Day is letting me we had a little gang going and helped the run the Drum and Dance space from 9:30am; crowd move out through the Domain, the that’ll be open at the Botanical Gardens, with student group participants got to perform in workshops all day. So from 1 - 2pm, anyone those events. And also on Saturday the 23rd from the community can come and grab a March in Bellingen is Harmony Day; the Afro drum or a costume and actually perform with Beat Ensemble with Janelle Turner and her us from 2 - 2:30, as we do the parade through dancers will all be performing together at the Botanical Gardens down to the main stage, 11:15 - noon in the Bellingen Showground; which will be led by the local Gumbaynggirr and the student group will be performing as an dance group. And then, we’ll be doing a little outcome from their workshops. stage show. Can you tell us about some of the parades Where can people learn more about what and events you’ve run? you do? Petes Ridge Festival let me run their New I have a new website - vibelife.com.au Years Eve parades for the 10 or 15 years that Thanks Kai.

SHINE Mid North Coast Festival

Tucked away in museums big and small all over the Mid North Coast are some rare treasures and some very everyday objects. However, they all have a story to tell of the fascinating and varied history and changing lifestyles of the region. This rich heritage is found not only in the stories and collections of our museums, but in our buildings and landscapes.

he SHINE Mid North Coast Festival provides the opportunity to shine a light on this heritage by showcasing it through a number of unique special events being staged, many in the twilight or evening or with a twist on the concept of shining a light on our heritage. The festival features over 25 special events across the Mid North Coast from April 22 to 28, as well as showcasing 12 smaller museums, 20 heritage walks, five lighthouses, two online exhibitions and much more to explore. On the Coffs Coast, the Dorrigo Museum will be telling the story of the Don Dorrigo

Gazette, the last Letterpress Newspaper in Australia. Guest speaker Michael English, current Editor of the Gazette, will speak on its history and operation. Pam Cork will talk about her father’s editorship of the Bellingen Courier Sun and training of the Dorrigo Gazette staff and show her video of the Intertype machine and Heidelberg Press in operation. Gazettes from 1910, when it first started, to the present will be on show, as will various films and videos that tell this very special story. Down the Waterfall Way to celebrate the Bellingen Museum’s new focus of The Alternative Lifestyle People of the Bellinger Valley - 1970s and ‘80s; participants are

encouraged to dress as hippies to undertake a heritage walk of historic Bellingen town. It will end back at the museum for drinks (champagne, tea, coffee and nibbles) and a performance by Elizabeth Routledge and Annie Venture. Why not travel out to Woolgoolga and walk the Woolgoolga Heritage Trail? There are 16 stations along the 2.2 km walk, with historically themed panels along a route between “Top Town” on River Street and Woolgoolga Beach Reserve. The walk includes the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Temple, and you can check on the progress of another temple and also a museum being built, that hopefully will be open very soon.

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T S A 8 O 2 C 2 2 H ine L T h I s R / R m P O o A N t.c s a D o I c h t M r o n id m s t r .a w ww

Back in Coffs at the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum you can travel back in time to what was the “Crown in the Jewel” in the 1930s - the Tasma Theatre - for lights, camera, action! Further afield, there is the chance to climb to the top of Smokey Cape Lighthouse and learn the stories of the lighthouse families who managed the “highway of light”. At nearby Trial Bay Goal there are tours promising tales of dark and deadly deeds or life behind bars for the grandchildren. All these and so much more, including across the Hastings and Manning Valleys. More can be found at the festival website: www.artsmidnortcoast.com/shine

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avid has called the Coffs accidentally got into. Where did it all Coast home since returning start? from London, where he I won a nationwide award in grammar worked as a cartoonist school in the UK when I was twelve, and I and illustrator for many was encouraged by the art teacher there. In top newspapers. Before Australia, after leaving school, I started off that he worked for many years at the Sydney in architecture, but was getting cartoons Morning Herald, and has won many awards published in student newspapers and then and much recognition the Fairfax press. I was for his art. These days offered a full-time job he does a lot of linocut, with Fairfax at the age wood engraving and of 23 and won a Walkley printing from his local Award at the age of 24. I have very fond memories of studio. How would you best my days in the Herald Building Hey David. What describe your personal in Jones St, Broadway, brought you to the style of work? Sydney. There were Coffs Coast? I think there’s a long lunches, often in After living in London boldness that comes Glebe or the Sri Lanka for 19 years, I’d always across. Decades ago, the Room at Broadway and planned to return to reproduction of images a constant stream of Sydney’s Sydney. I had a look at in newspapers was very literati calling in to the oﬃce. this area and liked it. poor, and my strong The unspoilt beaches, graphic style worked well. purple mountains Somehow I still retain that and beautiful sunsets ethos. reminded me of my childhood in Sierra Leone, You use many different mediums for your West Africa. I also needed space for a studio work. What would be a favourite and and printing presses and that was unlikely in why? London. I like the impact you get from the incised You’re a very well known artist in line in linocut and wood engraving. Engraving these parts, but art is something you a woodblock with the scorpers, gravers and

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The reward is thinking laterally and coming up

with something that

spitstickers reminds unforgettable days in is not a cliché and me constantly that I’m Lisbon and surrounds. is intelligent in its practising a craft that is The awards ceremony concept. This all has hundreds of years old. was in the stunning small to happen from start Most of my equipment, city of Sintra and was to finish in about six including the Albion televised in Portuguese. I hours for a typical editorial press, is antique, and gave a speech in faltering opinion piece, so the pressure belonged to a revered Spanish and found of deadlines is stressful. English printmaker myself on stage clutching called John R Biggs. I bottle of champagne and like working digitally. I’m a statuette, arm in arm still learning, but am pleased that some of my with a sequined Portuguese dancing girl on favourite illustrations are digital. one side and Portugal’s answer to Bert Newton You have received many awards for your on the other. I was privately complimented by work. What award stands out and why? the organisers and told that what I did was An illustration I did for the Financial “consistently excellent”. The statuette I was Times in London won Gold at The World given as a prize was a large pointed pencil Press Cartoon awards in Portugal. The piercing the world. Unfortunately, under X-ray cartoon was about the Death of Arafat and at Lisbon airport, it looked like 50 millimetre Palestinian elections. We were hosted for four anti-aircraft ordinance and lights flashed and

a siren went off. I said, in Spanish, “Es un premio” (It’s a prize)! Your art has taken you all over the world and you have worked with some of the biggest newspapers both nationally and internationally. Where has been one of the most memorable places you have worked? I have very fond memories of my days in the Herald Building in Jones St, Broadway, Sydney. There were long lunches, often in Glebe or the Sri Lanka Room at Broadway, and a constant stream of Sydney’s literati calling in to the office. At the Financial Times in London I worked alongside a couple of very talented illustrators. There were regular evening dining outings with the FT graphics people, and this spread to dining in Calais and then Paris and Brussels. I’ve been very lucky to enjoy both these periods. What do you find more challenging personal work or commercial work, and why? Illustrating a complex piece about the machinations of the EU, or UK or world politics, written by an expert, was far more difficult than deciding on an image to please yourself. The reward is thinking laterally and coming up with something that is not a cliché

and is intelligent in its concept. This all has to happen from start to finish in about six hours for a typical editorial opinion piece, so the pressure of deadlines is stressful. The briefs for book covers and advertising are always very tight and clear. A book cover feels more permanent than a newspaper illustration. It was also nice to buy wine with my illustrations on the label. Printmaking is challenging as well. There are issues with papers, inks and pressure to get a perfect print. What would you say would be your greatest accomplishment as an artist? I can’t think of any one thing that fits the bill. The mural in Urunga is my largest undertaking. I’m particularly fond of the painting I did of a street corner in Cuenca Ecuador. It think it captures the mood of the place. I’ve visited there a few times and have lovely friends there and hope to go back soon. Moving from London to the coast here is something I’m happy about as well. Where can we find out more about your art? My website is www.davidbromley.com and it needs updating. Thanks David. Coffs Coast focus 35

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WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Adele Likvarn,Vanessa Loncrini

Sophie Mufford, Ray Rixon

Jenny Wiseman, Jacqui Jarratt, Julianne McKeon

Leahsa Fisher, Matt Gadke, Dayna Rauser

Jon Campbell, Andy Mac

Coffs Coast International Women’s Day Breakfast

Amber Tasker, Leonie Lambert

Coffs Coast International Women’s Day Breakfast

Emma Rhoades, Marilyn Brien

social scene.

There is another really great thing about living here on the Coffs Coast and it was brought to my attention only the other day by a family who had just recently made a Sea change and relocated the whole family including their children, grandparents and fur children.

t doesn’t matter how old you are or where you are from, there are always events and activities that you can enjoy and be included in up here. At many of the events that FOCUS attends or sponsors, they are open for everyone to enjoy! It is just part of the reason why we treasure living here on the Coffs Coast! As a business owner, I love to support the young and talented and also local businesses, so the opportunity to do both came up just recently. Kailey Pallas is an accomplished upcoming Pop Artist Singer/Songwriter guitarist and qualified Singing Teacher. Kailey has experience in Musical Theatre, Performance and Production and has performed in various Musical Theatre Productions throughout the state. She has experience in live and studio performances and has opened wellknown solo artists and bands including ‘Mental as Anything’ and will be opening for Shannon Noll in August. We hired Kailey to perform at one of our Le Dain Designs Red Carpet events which is held on most Fridays from 5-7pm. This event is not a sales evening it has become a social event for one and all and is a way to meet new people ( ladies and gents welcome by the way) or to attend before dining in Sawtell. The mention of a Red Carpet gives the impression that some swish attire 36 Coffs Coast focus

has to be donned, but it is quite the opposite, Sawtell is a beach town and casual wear is usually the norm! Of course you can get to ‘Dress up’ but having a good time and meeting new people is usually the aim of the game. Kailey was an absolute hit of course and Le Dain Designs was packed. When the fun was over at 7pm, we all strolled across the road to enjoy dinner at Simon Chladil’s ‘Fab Fridays’ which is held at ‘Kath’s Café’ where Kailey Pallas continued on with her gig to another packed house. Kath’s Café is named in honour of the owner Simon Chladil’s mother, I can relate to that as the name Le Dain is my family name! Lots of family pride going on here! The next double event with Kailey performing will be on Friday 29th March and 5th April. Bookings for Kath’s café dining essential. FOCUS attended WOW just recently which was The Women of the World 2019 function which was staged at the Norm Jordan Pavilion in Coffs Harbour. The event Guunumba Bring to LifeVoice-Balance-Truth was a day to enjoy connection through ceremony and amazing workshops. The guests got to enjoy a complimentary lunch and a time to meet new friends and have some fun. The opening of the event had lots to offer with The Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, The Elements Ceremony with Aunty Bea and WOW

Drumming in Ritual. Workshops featured throughout the jam packed day consisted of dance, art, music and empowerment. To add to the list were Medicine Drum Healing, Movement Therapy and Talisman Making. Guests also got to enjoy local artists performing in vibrant cultures and styles. What an amazing and uplifting event!

the Sawtell RSL, screened up on the wall. The ladies enjoyed a bubbles or two along with delicious finger food which was served from the Plantation Hotel kitchen. To accompany the canapés there was a feast style grazing table to enjoy. Another successful FOCUS Women in Business event, with lots of fun being had by one and all.

We were certainly busy this past month; FOCUS attended the Coffs Coast International Women’s Day Breakfast which was staged at the C.ex Coffs. The auditorium was literally packed to the max with several hundred women enjoying a delicious breakfast whist enjoying listening to Guest Speaker of the morning Dr Angela Jay and celebrating with the winners of the awards. Evan though these morning start really early, everyone is always as bright as a button because the events are so uplifting! Congratulations to Shelley Lowe and a special mention to the organisers BPW, BWN, and Zonta.

Celebrations were in order, with a delicious dinner party being held at the ever popular Latitude 30 just recently. Your local African Experts at Travel Centre Coffs Harbour had a visit from The African Experts, Bench Africa this week. Celebrating Bench Africa’s 50th Birthday, special guest all the way from Kenya, Mike Kirkland, Chairman of Southern Cross Safaris in Kenya and also Chairman of Bench Africa joined Chris le Roux NSW/ACT State Manager for Bench Africa in Coffs Harbour for a special dinner with Glenda Halliwell and her team. Travel Centre Coffs and Bench Africa have had a close working relationship over many years and together they have helped to create dream holidays to Africa for many people in the area.

After being part of another exciting FOCUS Front Cover shoot, it was followed promptly by the FOCUS Women in Business event staged at the Plantation Hotel. All the FOCUS team was there eager to meet and greet many of our local business women along with the lovely ladies that graced our Front Cover. We even had a video of the Front Cover Fashion Shoot, which was shot at

As I mentioned earlier, supporting local is definitely the way to go! Here is to.. The glass always being half full.. Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

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WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂƒIN DESIGNS

Janelle Turner, Jojo Lia

Fiona McCaulay, Fariba Imani

Jacqui Jarratt, Shelley Lowe, Tegan Swan

Bec Platts, Sam Dawson, Dr Angela Jay, Nicci Seccombe

Kailey Pallas

social n scene. One Agency

Kristen Price Pallas, Kristian Pallas

Kim Jackson, Nicole Moore, Donna Dalton

Al and Glena Halliwell

Ashley Eather, Rebecca Duff, Peter Shepherd, Glenda Halliwell, Chris Le Roux, Sally Simmon, Mike Kirkland

Kim Connolly, Diane Robinson

Focus Women in Business 2019 Launch Party

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WITH FIONA BARDEN

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

events+ UPDATE

Sporting in Style Sports tourism brings big crowds to the Coffs Coast and the newly upgraded C.ex Coffs International Stadium will attract even more events bringing wide-ranging benefits to the local community.

e are fortunate on the Coffs broadcasts delivers further benefits to the area Coast to live in a beautiful by showcasing the spectacular natural assets of location with an abundance our region to a variety of audiences. of natural experiences and Events create economy through direct an amazing climate. These spend of attendees along with circular spend natural assets, combined with exceptional throughout our local outlets. Money goes sporting facilities, create a perfect formula to directly into our economy, benefiting local draw elite competitors for both national and businesses providing accommodation, meals, international sporting events from a number of shopping and other services that the visitors, different codes. participants, supporters, officials and media Sports tourism is valued at around $38 million enjoy when they are here for an event. That annually to the Coffs Coast community creating money is cycled through the local economy significant impact on via wages, services and the local economy. The increased consumption, all opportunity to host helping to generate more events such as the BCU jobs and more services Tri and OzGroms at our which, in turn, ultimately We are fortunate on the beaches and surrounds, helps grow the region’s Coffs Coast to live in a mountain biking events economy. beautiful location in our hinterland areas The events still to be with an abundance of held in 2019 which will and a number of large natural experiences attract media coverage participatory events at and an amazing climate. for our region include the Stadium, ensure that the FFA National Youth a varied and continuous Championships and the sporting events calendar National Senior Oztag is maintained. Championships. And The C.ex Coffs of course, the final round in the Kennards International Stadium has become a major World Rally Championships will be held in drawcard for a variety of field based events November, attracting a contingent of teams, such as the National OzTag and Touch Football spectators and media from around the Championships. The first stage of the Stadium world. The Rally Australia event delivers a upgrade will provide much-improved facilities tourism and economic boost each year to local for visiting players, spectators and media – also businesses, as well as exposing the beauty benefiting the local community with a betterof the Coffs Coast to a massive international equipped facility for school carnivals, sport audience. development tournaments and local sports Coffs Harbour City Council’s Stadium and finals. Major Events team, along with local event Winning the prestigious IFEA World Festival organisers, work hard to ensure a balance of & Event City Award for the past four years has community, state, national and international confirmed the Coffs Coast as the go-to spot for events are brought to the Coffs Coast each local, regional, state, national and international year – all attracting competitors, fans, and events. These events draw large numbers families who play a large part in increasing the of participants, spectators and supporters, numbers of visitors to our beautiful part of the ensuring visitor numbers and extended world. visitations increase in the off-peak season. coffscoast.com #createyourparadise Media coverage through live and recorded 38 Coffs Coast focus

Easter on the Northen Beaches There’s no possible place that could be better! Our wonderful seaside villages do celebrations so well and we’ve got a few coming up this month.

pril sees Woolgoolga filled with after the Christmas version was so popular. culture, art and food. This year This one has an Easter theme so if you’ve got the Vaisakhi parade has been kids, or if you love street art, come and check brought forward a week to out what our incredible creative community coincide with the grand opening has come up with. The art will line the main of the new Sikh temple. The incredible street for the entire Easter period and school parade will take place on the 6th of April and holidays. At the end of the holidays the art will flow through the will be auctioned off with town all morning half going to the artists with many stops and half going into the along the way. You street art fund to keep the can expect music, project going. My suggestion is to singing, dancing, Keeping with the come to Woopi in the sword fighting, creative theme, Easter morning, grab some animals, tractors, so Monday is “Art by the breakfast and have a much colour and an Sea” on the Woolgoolga wander around town amazing atmosphere Beach Reserve. From and then grab a spot that will have you 9am to 2pm there will be grinning from ear lots of local art and craft along the main street to to ear. The best stalls, art demonstrations, see the procession pass viewing spots are activities for the kids, a by mid-morning. along Beach Street local produce raffle, lots of from Centennial food and drink and even Oval. You’ll hear the more fun. The event is put parade before you on by the Woolgoolga Art see it. My suggestion is to come to Woopi in Gallery and is a great way to cap off the long the morning, grab some breakfast and have weekend. a wander around town and then grab a spot Not that you ever need an excuse to head along the main street to see the procession out to the beautiful Northern Beaches but pass by mid-morning. hopefully these few events (and there are Woopi will also be looking more gorgeous many more) will entice you to come and than usual over the Easter celebration times spend the day or weekend with us. From the as the Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber Chamber of Commerce beautification of Commerce, Happy Easter! We hope it’s committee of Lisa, Brett and the crew have a great one filled with family, friends and gone all out to do another lot of street art celebrations.

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WITH KEV SMITH

Cascade Mill. After a hinterland escape where you can explore some ageing history, drive through some stunning rainforest pockets, and complete the day with some of the best coffee and cake within the area?

ascade, about an hour decaying into the forest; tall gums shadow west of Coramba, was the rusting machinery, and it probably won’t once a busy stop along the be long until it’s all gone. Look hard enough, Glenreagh- Dorrigo railway. and you’ll still find the old rail line and It was a bustling place, with siding tucked in the bush, with tall tree ferns several steam powered shading the old timber structure. These days, sawmills, shops, schools nearly the only sounds and more. Within the you will hear are the surrounding bushland ever present Whipbirds, there were bush trams as the town has slowly that brought the timber died. An interesting fact is to the mills that were After several fires that 20 years later, operating between the and being rebuilt, the a film was made in early 1920s until the mill eventually closed the area called ‘The late 1960s. Once milled, in 1962. An interesting Winds of Jarrah’, and the timber was then fact is that 20 years what was left of the loaded on to the train, later, a film was made mill was burnt to the ready for its journey to in the area called The ground for a final Sydney and beyond. Winds of Jarrah, and movie scene. Today, you can walk what was left of the around the old case mill was burnt to the mill at Cascade, where ground for a final movie NPWS have put a herscene. itage walking trail to the mill. Still standing The road from Ulong to Cascade is dirt are the boilers, the timber press, massive and generally in good condition, and by steel wheels that ran part of the steam taking your time exploring this little piece of engine and much, much more. It’s called the history, the journey is well worth it. On your case mill, because back in WWII (between way back to Ulong, do yourself a favour and 1939 and 1945) local timber was used to pop into the Ulong Post Office café, where make ammunition boxes for the war effort. you can wash the dust and dirt off your lips As you walk around, you can see the bush with the most delicious coffee and homemade cake. encroaching on the mill’s framework slowly

Coffs Coast focus 39

1 01 R E A S O N S TO P L AY, S TAY, TA S T E & E X P LO R E

THE BIG BANANA FUN PARK

COFFS CLUB COAST CAMELS 300

DOLPHIN TREETOPS MARINEHARBOUR COFFS MAGIC

The the BIGGEST Fun Park The Big BigBanana BananaFun FunPark Parkisis the BIGGEST Fun on theon Northern NSW coast! boasts 9 fantastic Park the Northern NSW It coast! It boasts 8 major attractions including aincluding 17.5m tall Giant Slide fantastic major attractions a 17.5m tall (the biggest in the country), Laser Giant Slide, Toboggan ride,Toboggan Laser Tagride, arena, 36 Tag 36 hole Mini Theatre Golf course, and holearena, Mini Golf course, andTheatre Plantation Plantation Tour, Icerink, Skating rink, Family Zone, Tour, Ice Skating Family Fun ZoneFun and the the biggest Water Park between Sydney theGold Gold biggest Water Park between Sydney & &the Coast our our latest attraction, 4D Ride Simulator Coast!and PLUS, new 4D RideaSimulator featuring and greatest Ride Simulator films is arrivingthe in latest early January 2019! in the world!Open 9am to 5pm 7 days TRADING: (Attractions time vary) (Attraction times vary) TRADING: 9am toHighway, 5pm 7 days ADDRESS:Open 351 Pacific Coffs Harbour ADDRESS: Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02351 6652 4355 PHONE: 02 66524355 WEB: www.bigbanana.com WEB: www.bigbanana.com

Be Amazed! Hop on board the Coffs Coast Whether you’re a social bowler wanting a fun night Camel forto anenjoy unforgettable out withTrain friends our licensedexperience bar, bistro and these school holidays... our friendly staff and pool tables or looking to join a Competition League gentle camel family will take you on a magical Team, or a family fun night. ride on beautiful Beach. TRADING: See ourBoambee website for details Call us now!74/76 Grafton St (via Cox Lane) ADDRESS:

Experience nature like never before, as you climb, Presentations and animal interactions available weave and fly through the tree daily. Experience. Discover. Act!tops on self-guided rope courses. Flex yourday adventurous TRADING: Open every of the yearspirit and test yourself mentally and physically with over 90 elevated 65 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour ADDRESS: obstacles rope ladders, wobbly bridges, tunnels, PHONE:02with 6659 1900 cargo-nets and zip lines. TreeTops Coffs Harbour is the WEB: www.dolphinmarinemagic.com.aU perfect location to host a birthday party, enjoy a family day out in nature or experience a fun challenge with friends. Bookings recommended

TEN PIN BOWLING, BAR & PIZZA CAFE

Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 0447 070 128 PHONE: 6652 5666 FACEBOOK: WEB: club300bowling.com.au www.facebook.com/CoffsCoastCamels WEB: www.coffscoastcamels.com.au

$10 FOR 1 GAME

ADDRESS: Sealy Lookout Drive, Coffs Harbour WEB: www.treetops.com.au PHONE: 0457 506 888 EMAIL: coffsharbour@treetops.com.au

(CONDITIONS APPLY, MIN 4 PLAYERS)

MONTEM BIKE MOTACKLE TOURS & OUTDOORS

VALERY TRAILS TWILIGHT FOOD HORSE RIDING MARKETS CENTRE

WAJAANA WATSONS YAAM ADVENTURE LEISURE TOURS CENTRE

An early morning ride, watching the sunrise over Motackle & Outdoors is the largest fishing tackle the beach is an amazing experience and this is store in the world! PLUS we have a massive range just the beginning of your journey on one of our of outdoor & watersport products guided tours. Coffs Harbour has numerous viewing TRADING: Open 9am to 5pm 7 days platforms, allowing you to discover and take in ADDRESS: 144 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour the breathtaking coastal scenes. Depending on PHONE: 02 6652 4611 the seasons you can discover sea birds, green sea WEB: www.motackle.com.au turtles, sting rays, dolphins and in the migrating EMAIL: sales@motackle.com.au seasons, majestic whales, all from the seat of your bike. Bikes and helmets are supplied.

Family fun day out this Easter! Ride in the The Twilight Food Market is open every Friday rainforest, swim in the pool, picnic in the grounds. (weather permitting) during NSW daylight saving For beginners or experienced riders there is months. A family friendly food only market, something for everyone at Valery. And for the diverse in multicultural cuisine and lots of choices kids our Special Easter Kid’s Camp will run from for the kids... Dog friendly too. the 27/28th April. WHEN: January 4th up to 27 April 2019. WHERE: Park Beach Reserve PHONE: (02) 6653 4301 OPEN: 5am to 8pm (customised tours available) ADDRESS: 758 Valery Road, Coffs Harbour NSW EMAIL: info@valerytrails.com.au WEB: www.valerytrails.com.au

Aboriginal owned and operated, learn about the Watsons Leisure Centre is your one stop shop for Gumbaynggirr culture while paddling on Solitary all things camping, caravans & motorhomes. With Island Marine Park or walking in the awarding a Camping World store, caravan & Motorhome winning Orara East State Forest. Touch, taste hire & a huge range of new & used Caravan & and feel the culture through bush tucker, stories Motorhomes - there is something for all levels of and language. Wajaana Yaam has ecotourism leisure seekers. certification. VEHICLES FOR SALE Gift vouchers available. CARAVANS AND MOTORHOMES FOR HIRE TRADING: Mon- Friday 8.30am to 5pm, Saturday PHONE: 0409 536 670 8.30am to 3pm FACEBOOK: ADDRESS: Cnr Pacific Hwy + North Boambee facebook.com/wajaanaYaam Road, Coffs Harbour INSTAGRAM: PHONE: (02) 6652 7544 @wajaanaYaam WEB: www.watsonsleisurecentre.com.au WEB: www.wyat.com.au

PHONE: 0487600839 OR 0402017773 OPEN: 5am to 8pm (customised tours available) LOCATION: Various - Bookings Essential WEB: www.montembiketours.com.au

EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT weather permitting

5pm - 9pm Park Beach Reserve, Coﬀs Harbour

LIVE MUSIC

Bring a blanket, a bottle of wine, your dog (on a leash) & DON’T FORGET THE KIDS!

Red Rock

www.coffscoast.com

40 50 Coast focus 16 Coffs coffs coast focus.

1 01 R E A S O N S

TO P L AY, S TAY, TA S T E & E X P LO R E

Wet+Wild

FROM GROMMETS TO PROS GET THIS SUMMER. SURF BREAKS FOR EVERYONE!

ARRAWARRA SWIMMING

MOONEE FISHING BEACH

Arrawarra Beachfeatures is a surfing spotbeaches on Coffsover Coast’s northern beaches,80km with afrom longRed The Coffs Coast 32 hot pristine coastline stretching measured hand pointbreak. onsouth. a SE swell a SW wind, it’s ideal for long Rock in theright north to Hungry HeadBest in the Manyand of our beaches are patrolled over boarders and learners. Soak up some local Gumbaynggirr cultureWoolgoolga and discoverBeach the summer school holidays including Park Beach in Coffs Harbour, local ancient Aboriginal fishand traps. Take aand walk around the (Mylestom) rock pools or over the and Red Rock to the north Sawtell North Beach towalk the south. To headland to beautiful Beach. check when beaches Mullawarra are patrolled visit www.beachsafe.org.au. Don’t forget to pack

Surfing enthusiasts ridethan a beautiful beach breaktoreached through tree-lined The Coffs Coast hascan more 30 great locations wet a line and isaunmatched walkway to Moonee about 14km north of Coffs The surf is best when it comes to theBeach, rangelocated of species available. The region is Harbour. blessed with estuaries in small SE swells. creeks Moonee Beach Reserve, Mooneeand Creek meets Moonee Beach, fed by hinterland and rivers, as wellwhere as headlands sheltered beaches. Pick offers great andinshallow water forone younger play –stores plus dogs up some infopicnic from facilities MO Tackle Coffs Harbour, of thechildren biggest to fishing in the on leash allowed. world, orare make a booking with a local guide from Freshest Fishing Tours, Coffs Coast

the sunscreen!

Sport Fishing or Second Nature.

SURFING MACAULEYS BEACH

WATER ACTIVITIES SAWTELL ISLAND

The Macauleys Headland walk to Diggers Beach you with incredible views of Want to try surfing? The Coffs Coast offers easyrewards rides for beginner surfers around the coast back to Muttonbird Island and north to Solitary This beach a popular various protected beaches and harbours. Solitary Islandsisland. Surf School, Lee is Winkler surf for and ‘Grom Comps’ and avid local Macauleys Beachand is located just north Surf spot School Sawtell Surf School havesurfers. expert local knowledge friendly of Coffs Harbour – this classy is protected fromknow the NE sea breeze and instructors who will have youbeach riding break the waves before you it! The coastline also often hassandy high performance waves. features bottomed point-breaks and excellent beach breaks to suit everyone

Just south of Coffs, Sawtell is a popular surfing and swimming abundance Diving, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling – youspot can with do allan these and of shallow rock pools, idealWhether for snorkelling. Surfers can enjoy the great more on the Coffs Coast! you want to hire the equipment to point-style get you onwaves that can bewater, founddiscover on eitherwildlife side ofon theaisland which the waves from (or in) the guided tour protects or get expert tuition, youmost are winds. Finish the with day with a meal in one of thebusinesses. many fabulous cafes, restaurants and spoilt for choice a great variety of local These include Jetty Dive, bars in Sawtell Village. Coffs Jetty SuP Hire, Paddle Coffs Coast and Wajaana Yaam C-Change Adventures,

from grommets to legend surfers.

Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours.

For more info click on coffscoast.com

DISCOVER COFFS ENJOY YOUR COAST FROM VISIT TO THE BEACH TO BUSH BEACH AND STAY SAFE Jump online to check out

Always swim between the red and adventure activities, day yellow flags. For more surf and trips, food experiences, water safety information, including events beaches, and more! patrolled visit coffscoast.com.au/surf-safety

CONNECT WITH US

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ThwaitesMarine.

Thwaites Marine, established in Coffs Harbour in 2015, is a family owned marine business. The staff are experienced marine technicians, mechanics and engineers, who pride themselves on a passion for boating. Since late 2018, they’ve also sold new Stacer boats and Evinrude outboard engines. FOCUS sat down with Ben Thwaites and his partner, Laura S. Peregrin, to find out more…

en, how did you first get involved with boating - and is this a personal passion of yours? I first got into boating when I was three years old. I would run up and down the beach towing a plastic toy boat, watching the way the hull would cut through the water and how the wash would change shape when I added weigh. Those were my early marine engineering days. Each year, toy boats got bigger, or became radio-controlled. Then I bought my first kayak, then a dingy with an outboard, then a sail yacht … My family has always been into fishing and diving, so I spent a lot of time on boats when I was growing up. I became a marine mechanic and by the age of 20, I was working as a marine engineer on super yachts around the world. Tell us about Thwaites Marine. When did the business open? What type of work do you do? After working in several marine businesses, four years ago I opened my own. We started doing just marine engineering and mechanical repairs on boats with inboard engines, such as marine rescue boats, fisheries’ boats, sail yachts, charter boats ... But after some time with customers asking us to work on their tinnies, we decided to take on smaller engines too. Last year we took on two more dealerships: Stacer and Evinrude. Today we can install, service and repair outboards and inboards in any recreational and commercial vessel, from small tinnies to big super yachts.

42 Coffs Coast focus

When did Laura come We have affordable ALL OF OUR STAFF into the business? boat, engine and trailer ARE PASSIONATE What is her role, and packages in stock. ABOUT BOATING how has she helped However, customers OR SAILING, WHICH the business? can also choose to HELPS US RELATE Being a diver and a custom-build their boat. TO THE ISSUES OUR marine scientist, Laura We provide mechanical CUSTOMERS FACE. has also spent most of service and installation her adult life on boats. for outboards and When we first met, she inboards. We are dealers also started sailing with for Volvo-Penta, Yanmar me. We share a big passion for the ocean. A and John Deere Marine, and agents for many couple of years ago, she told me, “Ben, you boating accessories brands. Last but not least, need a website”. I didn’t have the money or we have just become the Australian importers the time for that. “Not a problem; I will build for Batela, a nautical-inspired clothing brand it,” she said. And that’s how she started at from Europe. You should check out the new Thwaites Marine. Two years later, she takes playful, 100% waterproof raincoats on www. care of our marketing, online sales, boat sales thwaitesmarine.com.au/batela. and financing and plays a key role helping me What makes Thwaites Marine a strong manage the growing business. We make a business? great team. We care about our work quality and take You moved earlier this year - where are pride in what we do. All of our staff are you situated? passionate about boating or sailing, which We moved from a small workshop to big help us relate to the issues our customers premises with a store front on 30 Industrial Dr, face. We always aim for a five-star quality Coffs Harbour. Now we have enough space service, no matter what your boating needs for both marine service and for boat and are. Furthermore, we back our products: outboard sales. We currently have a dozen of we would not sell something we are not the new Stacer boats on the floor. We have convinced about. For example, with Stacer also taken on two more staff members this and Evinrude: we are very impressed with year, whom I am personally training to keep these Australian made, high quality boats and up our high standards. It has been a massive engines. They are easy to sell, because we change, but for the best. love and trust the brands. Tell us more about the products and Tell us about the experience of your staff services you offer. and how they can help someone looking We are now proud dealers for Stacer alloy at buying a new boat? boats and trailers, and Evinrude outboards. In the boat sales area, we have Mitch

Young, a Master 5 instructor and very experienced fisherman. He has been running fishing charters recreationally and commercially for decades, and he also has vast sailing experience. In the engine sales, there’s me. Because of my marine engineering and mechanical background, I have a good understanding of this “more technical” side of boating. Our customers know we have their back when it comes to any issues with their engine. Laura is great with boat sales and assisting with very competitive finance options. She always gives you the best possible deal. Tell us about your demo days ... We often carry out demo days at different locations in the area; for example, at the Coffs Harbour Boat Ramp, or on the river in Mylestom. We basically bring a brand new Stacer boat, and let you take it for a run. This really helps people decide on what type of set-up they need. We are currently demoing a Stacer 499 Crossfire with a 90 HO outboard: the perfect fishing boat. We also have a Stacer 589 Wildrider with an Evinrude G2 150 HO: the perfect all-rounder. Both are amazing boats. How can people find you, your promotions and information on your demo days? On our website: www.thwaitesmarine.com. au or on our Facebook or Instagram pages. They can also call us or send us an email at contact@thwaitesmarine.com.au and we will get in touch with them ASAP. Thanks guys.

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Explore Central Eastern Europe Local tour company Quadrant Travel and Journeys are offering FOCUS readers the chance to get off the well-beaten tourist trail and learn about life in the countryside and small villages of Central Eastern Europe. The 25 day tour, with an optional Romanian Extension tour, departs in June 2019, where travellers get the rare chance to combine agriculture and sightseeing exploring Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Germany. Contrast traditional farming methods with modern styles of agricultural production and see the diversity of agricultural practices across Europe. Visit farms, sample delicious regional produce, view breathtaking landscapes, visit ancient and beautiful cities and experience amazing hospitality. The tour is fully escorted and will include the beautiful cities of Budapest and Prague, as well as the Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a 13th Century castle.

WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

European

The former border crossing, Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, and emotionally moving World War II sites of Auschwitz and Schindler’s factory ensure that travellers get a true understanding of the history and diversity of this region. Quadrant Australia have been taking travellers around the world for more than 30 years. Their special interest tours are a unique blend of local experiences and sightseeing and provide a wonderful opportunity to see the world from a different perspective. They have a network of colleagues in more than 40 countries around the world, which means their travellers are never alone or stranded. Their local office in Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, has an experienced team with more than 60 years in the travel industry. With more than 50 countries on their “visited” list, their team is proud to offer personalised and friendly service to the Mid North Coast. Visit their website for more information at www.quadrantaustralia.com

If you’ve been dreaming of a European getaway, then there is no better time than right now. Kerry Moss, from Quadrant Travel and Journeys, tells us why Europe should be on your bucket list.

urope is a melting pot of cultures and history. Everywhere you turn are modern and ancient historic buildings and experiences. Whether you would like to trace your family history in the backroads of the UK, follow the path of the Gladiators into the Colosseum in Rome, or travel back in time and experience the Vikings' way of life, then Europe has something for everyone. The true beauty can only be experienced in person, when standing in the shadows of those who travelled before us. It feels like multiculturalism was perfected in Europe, with many countries, religions, and cultures all co-existing in a relatively small land mass. The cities and streets are alive with music and language, and whilst English is widely spoken, navigating the local language is part of the attraction. C’est la vie! Some of the best music, art and culture in the world exists in Europe. With so many countries in close proximity, you can be sipping champagne on the Seine River overlooking the Eiffel Tower one day, and enjoying Puccini’s Madame Butterfly in Venice the very next day - without any jetlag or time difference. Some say the best food, coffee and wine are found throughout Europe. If you ever want an excuse to lock yourself away in a French Villa, immerse yourself in the life of locals and take a wine making course, then France has something for you. Or, try pasta making in Italy, or chocolate sampling in Switzerland. You will never come home from a European holiday lighter than you left! Europe is a continent where you can travel by train, plane, boat, bike or even donkey, and a combination of these usually means

you can get the best out of a destination. Cycling and walking tours have grown in popularity and allow you to combine a little exercise, whilst enjoying the sights. Following the footsteps of Salvador Dali in the foothills of the Pyrenees in Spain whilst exploring charming country towns and coastal fishing villages gives you an entirely unique perspective on Europe, whilst nobody needs to know if you accepted a little boost with an electric bicycle exploring the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia. On the whole, public transport in Europe is reliable and affordable and an excellent way to talk to and meet the locals whilst getting between A and B, comfortably and quickly. European summer, whilst pleasant, can be crowded and expensive; travelling outside of these peak times can help you to avoid the crowds and save some money. Making sure you pre-book entrances to the major attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum and La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona will help you avoid some of the queues, or in some cases, prevent you missing out altogether. There are hundreds of airline combinations, countless travel routes and even a world cruise to help you get there. Developing a good relationship with your experienced local travel agent will ensure you get the best advice and great value. Your travel agent will often have access to deals that are not available to the public. This, together with their personal experiences, will help you navigate the sometimes-tricky path of working out what, how, and where to go. There is simply no way to experience Europe and not be captivated by its beauty, history and diversity. Like champagne, Europe is always a good idea. Coffs Coast focus 43

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

WITH COFFS COAST NUTRITION

W I T H C C FA C I A L

NUTRITION MYTHS:

Deciphering Fact from Fiction Many people are confused about where to go to for accurate nutrition advice. It’s easy to Google whatever topic you’re interested in, but how do you know whether the information is correct? There are literally millions of unreliable nutrition websites and books written by people with no nutrition qualiﬁcations, such as celebrities or self-proclaimed scientists. Could you be making simple food mistakes? Let’s set the record straight. MYTH: You can get your serves of fruit and vegetables from juice. Juice provides vitamin C, folate, potassium and antioxidants; however, it can be a concentrated source of sugar e.g. Strawberry Crush from Boost Juice contains 15 teaspoons of sugar. Even if you make fresh juice at home, one cup of apple juice will provide more than twice the sugar of eating a whole fresh apple, but without the beneficial fibre. MYTH: Bananas are fattening Has anyone told you to avoid bananas, because they are high in calories? Wrong. Bananas are a good source of vitamins, minerals and resistant starch, and are not “fattening” in moderation. A medium banana contains 90 cal (377 kJ) and 19 g carbs - about the same as one medium apple, which contains 95 cal (400 kJ) and 20 g carbs. MYTH: It’s natural, so it must be good for me. The word “natural” is often found on food packaging, with the intention of making us think that the product is “healthy”. However, butter, salt and sugar are all natural, but it’s not good to have too much of these. “Natural” on a food label tells you that the ingredients are derived from natural sources, not how healthy they are. Lots of things that are “natural” should only be consumed in small amounts, or avoided altogether (think toadstools). MYTH: Low carb beer is better than regular beer. Taking carbs out of beer does not make beer healthier, or calorie-free. Alcohol has its own calorie content - 7 cal (29 kJ) per gram. Many varieties of low-carb beer contain the same 44 Coffs Coast focus

amount of alcohol as regular strength beer, which means that removing the carbs will only slightly reduce the calorie content. MYTH: Drinking icy water will improve your metabolic rate. This myth is promoted in some gyms. Supposedly, if water entering your body is much colder than your body temperature, then your body has to work hard to counteract the drop in internal temperature - so you draw from your fat stores for extra fuel. In reality, however, only a few calories are required to keep your body temperature even. The bottom line is that water is the ideal drink. It’s cheap, has no calories, caffeine or sugar, and keeps you hydrated. MYTH: You can’t have too much water. This one is wrong too. It sounds odd, considering that around 60% of our body is composed of water, but you can overdo it - it’s called water overload, or hyponatraemia. When the body takes in too much water, the salt levels in the blood become diluted. As a result, the body’s cells swell, which can have serious consequences e.g. in 2008, a UK woman suffered permanent brain damage after going on a detox diet where she consumed four litres a day of water. So, think twice before turning to Google for nutrition advice! For expert advice that you can trust, contact: Coffs Coast Nutrition Ph. 6652 7529 E. reception@coffscoastnutrition.com.au W. www.coffscoastnutrition.com.au Dietitians, Nutritionists, Health Coaches: Louise Williams, Ellie Starkey Office Manager: Brooke Henry Personal Trainer: Col Williams

Dr. Cecilia Mwanje and Dr. Caroline Gordon met in the UK, combined their businesses and have brought their expertise in dentistry and facial rejuvenation to our Coﬀs Coast. They chatted with FOCUS about their experiences so far …

hat is the most satisfying aspect of your role? It has to be when we see the results. The confidence these subtle changes can give to one person is incredible. Women and men come to us and tell us what it is about their facial appearance they dislike. We then troubleshoot this issue, and come up with a solution. What background experience do you bring to your current role? We are both UK trained dentists who previously successfully operated our own facial aesthetics businesses in the UK. As part of the undergraduate studies, it is a requirement for dentists to have studied the anatomy of the head and neck in great detail. The high standard of dental training in the UK, combined with the further qualifications we hold in the facial rejuvenation field, further demonstrates our competency and capability to administer these treatments. The fact we administer injections repeatedly on a daily basis (as part of our dental work) means we have a refined, gentle administration technique. How does your business give back to the community? We try to take part in as many community and business events as possible. We recently attended our first Business Women’s Network event, and we are confident that won’t be the last. We attended the Coffs FOCUS Women in Business event last month and donated a $100 voucher to the raffle and also donated a prize

to the Women of the World event. We will be attending and putting a prize into the raffle at the Bonville Wedding Expo at the beginning of June too. At CC Facial, we firmly believe in supporting local businesses. What is the point of difference between you and your competitors? At CC Facial, we are there with you in person to discuss your treatment needs. There are a lot of competitors who deliver Skype interviews with doctors, but we don’t see that as gold standard to patient care. It is important to have continuity of care - to know that the prescribing practitioner is there on hand in case something does go wrong. Although complications are rare, they can happen. You must ask yourself, can you be confident that who you are dealing with is capable of treating complications? Can you be sure the product being used is safe? At CC Facial, we only use TGA approved products bought from reputable suppliers within Australia. When you book an appointment with CC Facial, you are paying for high quality service, products and end to end care. When you are looking to book treatments with any provider, all we ask is that you do your research and keep yourself safe. Define success … Success to us, is when you have an idea and you manage to achieve it. Caroline says, “Cecilia and I met in the UK in 2015 during the visa process, and we both had our own facial aesthetics businesses set up. We had discussed setting up a partnership once we were settled in Australia, and here we are today.”

Brooke, Col, Louise and Ellie

Coffs Coast Nutrition Do you want to get fit and healthy? Do you know what to do, but can’t get motivated? Does it all feel too overwhelming?

Living Doll Loves Grey Hair

Why not try our new wellness package!

How to care for silver hair every day

This includes a combination of one-on-one personal training with our exercise specialist, plus regular personalised nutrition and health coaching with one of our friendly dietitians and nutritionists.

The beauty of silver hair lies in its shimmering texture, which requires a tailored haircare routine. As with any coloured hair, especially after being lightened and when hair goes naturally grey, the cuticles change texture, and hydration is essential.

How is our wellness package different?

When the cuticles of hair fibres are dry, they stick up from the surface of the strand. But when they're hydrated and healthy, they lie flat, which reflects the light and gives the hair an overall glossy look. Therefore, tired, dry hair can often look dull. Prevent this by using a Loreal Shine Blonde or Silver Shampoo and Condition formulated for silver hair, and applying a hair mask once a week or whenever your hair feels like it needs some extra care.

Our nutrition and health coaching is tailored to YOU. If there’s an area that you would like to focus on, then that’s what we do (e.g. gut health, food intolerances, chronic inflammation, sports nutrition, an autoimmune condition, a specific medical condition etc.). We provide personalised advice based on your likes, dislikes, goals, budget and medical history, and our holistic approach to health is backed by the latest scientific research. You have the flexibility to choose whether you want to utilise more personal training sessions or whether you prefer to focus on nutrition and health coaching. Our dietitians have the scientific knowledge and training to answer your nutrition queries, so you will feel confident of receiving the best possible advice.

Hair oils can also be a great way of adding shine to your silver hair, whether after washing or on-the-go. Just rub a few drops between your palms (with clean hands) and smooth over the lengths and ends, avoiding the roots. To get the most out of shimmering silver hair, trust the Premier Stylists at Living Doll, and feel completely confident with your new look! XO Dolls.

Coffs Coast focus 45

Benjamin & Ruth

MANSELL

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F R E S H

D E N T A L

ow long have you lived in Coffs Harbour, and what makes it feel like home? We have been living in Coffs Harbour for just over six years now, and in that time we have developed strong bonds with an incredible group of friends whom we love to do life with. They make Coffs feel like home. We adore watching our two boys growing up alongside these families and creating wonderful memories. What would your most memorable moment be so far? To be honest, moving here! Since coming to Australia, our lifestyle has dramatically changed for the better, and the opportunities available to us have far outreached our dreams and hopes. We still pinch ourselves that we get to call this place home. We love the Australian weather and living so close to the beach. We will never forget our first experience of a pre-work surf at Diggers Beach, with a pod of dolphins swimming by and whales breaching out to sea - just magical.

C A R E

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What do you love about your job? Seeing a previously anxious patient smile and laugh, knowing they have and continue to conquer their fear. Dentistry has come a long way over the years, and it is wonderful to observe patients having positive experiences and building their confidence. What is a common concern patients have? A common concern is from patients who have not been for a long time who think they may have a lot of work required, the uncertainty, and the unknown. The fear of what we may find or what treatment they will need. Once a patient is fully informed of what is happening in their mouth and all the treatment options available are explained to them, that uncertainty can be dissolved and replaced with understanding, motivation and newfound control. They can now make informed decisions about their oral health and wellbeing. What is your recommendation? Look after your body and enjoy your health. Take control of your oral health, make smart food and drink choices, and seek advice, tips and education from a dental professional regularly.

Bulk billing CDBS available Family-friendly practice Extended opening hours Saturday availability

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

Children’s therapist

Grafton

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

6643 2225

Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au 46 Coffs Coast focus

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au

focusinterview.

Jemima Wright Jemima Wright completed her apprenticeship in HAIRDRESSING HERE ON THE COFFS COAST, AND EVEN THOUGH SHE THEN MOVED AWAY, SHE ALWAYS CAME BACK FOR VISITS AND CALLS COFFS HOME. Whilst living in Sydney, Jemima worked for some of the city’s most prestigious salons and won a number of awards for her work. And now, she’s brought that talent back home to the Coffs Coast!

i Jemima. What’s your history here on the Coffs Coast? I wasn't born here, but I was definitely bred here on the Coffs Coast. It’s always been my home base, as all my family connections are here; no matter where I have travelled off to, I have always come back to visit frequently. What have you enjoyed most about being back here after all your years away? Space! I loved inner city living; I lived in Redfern and so close to the city in what you could call a “cosy” apartment. Most of your life in the city is spent out at work or play, but now our family has grown, and my priorities have changed. I have moved back to Coffs with my fiancé and our beautiful daughter; we are all loving having a home and more space to spread out. Reconnecting with old friends and developing new connections with some really awesome creative people up here on the coast has also been really enjoyable. You are a hairdresser by trade; tell us a bit about how you came to be in that profession? I started my hairdressing apprenticeship up here in Coffs in 2000. I was a qualified hairdresser by the age of 19 and as soon as I had the chance I spread my wings and off to Sydney - I went. It was hard, and I really had to work at it. Just because my apprenticeship was over didn’t mean the training had stopped!

I started working with Judges’ Recognition four THE MOST Toni and Guy as a colour times for Australian Hair ENJOYABLE THING technician and continued Colourist of the Year IS TO BE ABLE TO undergoing an immense and was also a part of CREATE A LOOK amount of training. It Salon Team of the Year FOR SOMEONE THAT IS A TRUE AND was from this point I numerous times, being UNIQUE EXPRESSION veered into really finding part of the Wild Life Hair OF THEIR my niche as a hair colour salon. It was definitely a INDIVIDUALITY. specialist. I finished there time in my career where I and went on to become lived and breathed work, the premier colourist at and I loved every part one of Sydney's most of it - but now the most awarded and reputable salons, Wildlife Hair. rewarding part of my career is stepping back And now I'm back after 19 years, to where it into the salon after some time away from it all began. and reigniting my love for this profession. What do you enjoy most about Hairdressing is a very creative job; where hairdressing? do you draw inspiration from? Being able to have a job that is hands on I have been extremely blessed and lucky and creative is truly enjoyable. And beyond to work alongside some of the best in our that, the most enjoyable thing is to be able industry in Australia, and working alongside to create a look for someone that is a true other creative and passionate people, and unique expression of their individuality. I exchanging and bouncing ideas off each have also, through hard work, been able to other has always helped me find creativity. experience so much of what this industry has Hairdressing is a fashion industry; I strongly to offer - whether it be on the salon floor, believe it's our job as professionals to keep to being behind the scenes on photoshoots, on top of the latest trends and techniques, so fashion weeks, hair shows and even TV that we can bring them to our clientele. Social productions; it’s all been really fun. media, pop culture and fashion are all my go You have won a number of awards over tos when looking for inspiration; although, your career so far; tell us a bit about that. in saying that, being a little bit kooky and In the prime of my time, you could say thinking outside the box will always set you I was pretty competitive, and I had the apart. opportunity to enter some of Australia's Ongoing education is also really biggest hair awards. I was awarded with important to keep up-to-date on products,

techniques and trends; we believe you are also an educator? Education is key in this industry, as it is evolving and updating constantly. I have worked in all levels of education; I have been on the main stage of Australia's biggest hair education event, Hair Expo, numerous times. I have travelled Australia-wide teaching as a guest artist and have even been to New Zealand, but most importantly, I have been able to teach and mentor apprentices on the salon floor, which is by far the most rewarding thing - to watch the young ones grow with skill and confidence. You also teach yoga in your spare time; when and how did you first get into yoga? I have been a practitioner for 10+ years and was originally drawn into yoga through an injury. In 2014, in between hairdressing, I went to New York to complete my teacher training and since then have continued to train and even complete another apprenticeship. I have an advanced certification now in the Jivamukti yoga method, and I also travel frequently to practice and spend time with my teachers. It's not just something I teach, but is a way of living ethically that for me goes way beyond the time spent on a yoga mat. It has truly been a real pleasure to teach here in Coffs Harbour and to watch the yoga community grow and flourish. Thanks Jemima. Coffs Coast focus 47

Jetty Dental

Help! I don’t speak “Hairdresser”. Have you ever walked into a salon knowing exactly what you want, but walked out with the haircut from hell? Even the best hairdresser is going to struggle to please, if you can’t communicate what you’re after. Adrian from Celtic Roots Hair Designers has some handy tips to make your next haircut the best ever. Don’t be afraid use the lingo - over the years, a wide variety of hairdressing terms have been bandied about. The challenge for hairdressers is interpretation: one person’s “even layers” may be another’s “tapering”; someone else’s “tapering” may be “sculptured”! “Balayage”, historically, was a technique, but these days it is often referred to as a “look”. Graduation, tapered in, layers - all much used terms though, with an array of meanings. Your stylist won’t mind if it takes you a few different tries to say exactly what you mean. Take in some pictures - a hairstyle scrapbook - to discuss with your stylist. However, be prepared to discard some ideas. If your ideal hairstyle won’t work with your hair,

48 Coffs Coast focus

a good hairdresser shouldn’t try to please with a less than awesome look. Say what it is that you like about the picture, the whole shebang, the texture, colour, quantity of colour, or just the bit that frames the face? Rather than wishful thinking - try making a list of any problems you had with your last haircut and also all the styling or colour problems you are having with your hair. This way, your stylist will be able to approach all issues at once. Consultation is the most important aspect of hair cutting - without it, you will only be frustrated. Make sure your hairstylist sees and touches your hair before shampooing. Be specific when you talk about length, and don’t hesitate to ask to see how much will be cut off. Be honest about how much time you like to spend on your hair, and ask about products that will keep your crowning glory glorious. Over time, as your association develops, your hairdresser will come to understand your requests, but initially a good long consultation is the only way to go.

Dr Paul Crichton has been practicing dentistry since 1999, and in that time has taken a special interest in cosmetic dentistry involving crown and bridgework, dental veneers and teeth whitening. Crowns, bridges and veneers are all fixed prosthetic devices. A crown is a cap place over a damaged tooth and is used strengthen the tooth, whilst enhancing its appearance, shape and sometimes alignment. Bridges are often used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space of the missing teeth and are fixed to existing teeth or implants surrounding the empty space. Veneers are thin facing, made of ceramic, that are bonded to teeth to

improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. Most crowns, bridges and veneers are made from ceramic material that can matched to the colour of the patient’s teeth to create a natural looking smile. This is often done in conjunction with teeth whitening, that is used to lift and improve the colour of a patient’s smile. At-home teeth whitening is a simple, safe and predictable way to improve the appearance of your teeth and can be done in the comfort of your own home. If you think you might be interested in any of these services, give our friendly team at Jetty Dental a call on 6651 7373, or visit our website at www.jettydental.com.au to book your consultation today.

Dr Aaron Budden W O M E N S

R E P R O D U C T I V E

C A R E

Womens Reproductive Care, situated in the Specialist Medical Centre, is welcoming a new Gynaecologist to their practice. FOCUS sat down with Dr Budden, to find out more …

r Budden, what brings you to Coffs Harbour? My wife, Claire and I have always loved the idea of a coastal life. After growing up in Newcastle, Sydney always felt a little too crowded and busy, but it offered great opportunities to develop specialised skills in the big hospitals. During specialist training, we visited the Mid North Coast and were hooked. It was the mix of beaches, national parks, and great climate that would be perfect for a growing family. Dr Budden, what is your role - and why have you chosen to work with A/Prof Ward and the team? I am a medical board accredited Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, with specialist training in keyhole surgical techniques. After first meeting A/Prof Ward, it was clear that joining the team would provide a great opportunity to continue learning from an experienced and well-respected clinician, whilst bringing complementary skills to provide more care

options for the women of the community. What background experience do you bring to your current role? I graduated medical school from the University of Newcastle, before moving to Sydney to further my training. I undertook my specialty training at the Royal Hospital for Women, where I was fortunate to learn from some of the best subspecialist Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in the country. After completion of my specialist examinations, I spent a further two years studying keyhole surgical techniques for conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? Overwhelmingly, it would be the ability to affect change in the lives of women we see, who quite often have “lived with” something for a long time and either not known it wasn’t right, or have been embarrassed to talk about it. It is then a real joy when we are able to provide some improvement, whether it be for pelvic pain, heavy periods, incontinence,

difficulties with fertility, or even reassurance after an abnormal cervical screening test. Why did you choose your field of specialty? After rotating through the specialty in medical school, I was drawn to the positive role we can play in women’s lives. Further elective study and early exposure after medical school sealed it as the place I was meant to be. What are some of your most notable achievements? I always struggle with this question. I think the completion of two post graduate degrees, a number of research publications and book chapters, receipt of two competitive research grants, and selection for one of the highly

competitive keyhole surgery fellowships were great, but my most humbling professional achievement had to be an award from UNSW as Clinical Teacher of the Year in 2017. Outside of work, making the finalists for Travel Photographer of the Year was a great boost ... Although, surviving the first year of a newborn may have to go on the list too! Let’s hear from A/Prof Ward about his reaction ... We are absolutely delighted to have Dr Budden join us at Womens Reproductive Care. Dr Budden comes highly credentialled, to add substantially to our expertise in serving women in our region.

Coffs Coast focus 49

Freedom AGED CARE AGED CARE SCAVENGER HUNT A HUGE SUCCESS

Recently, Aveo Freedom Aged Care in Coffs Harbour held a scavenger hunt for excited residents and staff. It was game on from the start, as four teams competed to get their names on the coveted 2019 trophy.

ach team of four had a dedicated staff member to help lead the way, as residents performed a series of tasks. While the original plan involved multiple tasks that had to be ticked off in the local community, the weather had other ideas. The residents and staff were not going to let some poor weather spoil their fun though, and everyone quickly got together to form a more suitable hunt within the community. Once teams were formed, the creativity began to flow, with each team making a name for themselves. The names formed a common theme, and included the Slippery Seals, Jailhouse Rockers, Banana Benders and the Freedom Fighters. From finding items like a particular book, the Ace of Spades, drawing an item and then undertaking group photos, the lead changed hands several times during the course of the hunt. Arthur said, "It was all good light-hearted fun, with lots of banter between the groups. We are a family here; we work together to get things done." Despite each team going through the tasks with the final goal of getting their place at the top, no team was left behind, and everyone worked together to make sure the tasks were completed. After the hunt was completed by all teams, and the winners were finally announced, it was the Slippery Seals that took the gong this year. Although - all teams were the winners at the end of the day, with everyone relaxing for happy hour and an afternoon snack after the event. The day was a huge success and a true testament to both the staff and residents. Gavin Harwood, Diversional Therapist for the community, said, "It’s all about creating fun things to do for and with the residents that help exercise their brains and their bodies. We 50 Coffs Coast focus

aim to create an environment where residents can socialise together; it’s great for everyone’s overall wellbeing. We even have a Zumba/ yoga teacher coming to our community each week." One visit to Aveo Freedom Aged Care in Coffs Harbour, and you can see that it’s a community where everyone looks out for each other - residents and staff alike. Community Manager Helen Martin, said, "They really are a family. It’s in part due to having real choice. They can participate as much as they like in our daily activities and pretty much live to their own timetable. It’s all part of being a genuine alternative to a nursing home." In fact, that’s Freedom Aged Care’s point of difference. Residents have their own private homes, with their own front door, an ensuite and a kitchenette. Couples can stay together, and residents can bring their pets. The community itself is ideally located on the Mid North Coast, close to Park Beach Plaza. Community Administrator Carol Merritt, said, "Our residents really are spoiled for things to do in beautiful surrounds." It’s easy to see why, with shopping, cinema, restaurants, cafés, nature reserves, botanic gardens and wonderful beaches all on their doorstep. Regular day trips are also part of an enviable social calendar. And, with medical facilities and hospitals close by, residents and their families can enjoy some added peace of mind. As well as providing a relaxed yet social lifestyle, the community offers 24-hour personalised care and support. Services include low, high and palliative care. Community Manager Helen Martin is also a Registered Nurse and has a wealth of experience in aged care. She says, "Our residents’ wellbeing is our number one priority, and a big part of this

is providing care in their own home that’s tailored to their needs." Residents also have access to a range of services including visiting GPs, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and podiatrists. Domestic support like cleaning, linen service and support with showering and dressing is also available. As Helen says, "It’s one thing looking at a brochure, but it’s not until residents come and stay with us that they really get a feel for the place." Residents and visitors always comment on how beautiful the community gardens are - it’s "like an oasis", they say. John, the community gardener and maintenance coordinator, takes great pride in his manicured lawns and always has fresh flowers available for the community and dining room.

Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour also offers respite in well-appointed respite apartments, allowing carers to take a wellearned break from their caring duties. Respite can also be beneficial to those discharged from hospital, who may need some extra support while they decide on the best place to live in the longer term. The scavenger hunt is just one of the many fun events the community has hosted over the last twelve months, and some activities have been developing further. Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour is a family and great team who have the right recipe to help local seniors live well the way they choose.

Coffs Coast focus 51

focus_Contributor

W I T H D A I S Y M O R O N E Y F R O M D A I S Y L L E W E L LY N H A I R A N D M A K E U P

focus_Contributor

WITH LAUREN VESTEY

faceit. Autumn Bridal Trends. Autumn is such a popular time of year for weddings, and with the weather here on the Coffs Coast at this time of year - it’s easy to see why!

o, I thought this month I’d talk the look won’t date like some colours. And, about some bridal beauty trends for brown doesn’t have to be boring either! To those autumn brides, as their big day tailor your look, you could choose a metallic approaches. bronze, an earthy matte brown or a satin Meghan Markle and her royal golden brown colour. wedding look are still inspiring brides almost While we’re talking eyes, winged liner is also a year on, and that doesn’t surprise me at all. a popular choice. Whether it’s a bold black The Duchess’ glowing natural makeup look liquid line, a softened smokey line, or a subtle and soft classic updo fine line, it will make were beautiful, fresh and your eyes look wider, timeless. and turning the corners One of the biggest up will make your eyes trends I’m seeing is that look bright and open One of the biggest trends it’s all about glowing and will also accentuate I’m seeing is that it’s all about skin! Rather than heavy the line of your cheek glowing skin! Rather than matte foundation, it’s bones. heavy matte foundation, become all about subtle Brows are such a it’s become all about dewy skin, a gorgeous focus in the beauty subtle dewy skin, a highlight and, if you’ve industry at the moment, gorgeous highlight and, if you’ve got them, even letting and long gone are the got them, even letting some of some of those freckles days of over-plucked, those freckles show through. show through. thin eyebrows! Now it’s Rose pinks are also big all about well shaped for brides at the moment, but full brows, so fill whether it’s a dusty pink them if necessary and pout or romantic “blushing bride” cheeks. brush them into place for a polished look that Lip tints are a great option for this look; many will frame your eyes beautifully. can be used on both lips and cheeks, and they When it comes to hair, more and more have plenty of staying power - which is ideal brides are coming to me with ideas of soft, for that “you may kiss the bride” moment! tousled, even messy locks. Carefree messy Neutral tones on the eyes are always a popbuns, loose waves, and playful ponytails are ular choice, and at the moment it’s particularly where it’s at. To refine your look a little, try true for bronzes and browns. They’re softer a centre part; this will add an element of than black, complement almost any eye colour structure and symmetry. You could also add and skin tone (perfect if you want your bridesan edgy crystal tiara or a flower crown to amp maids to all have the same makeup look), and things up a bit. 52 Coffs Coast focus

Silver hair has become one of the most popular hair colour trends over the past couple of years, and silver success shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Here, you’ll discover whether silver hair will suit you, how to achieve the best colour, as well as some top tips on caring for silver hair.

OW TO GET SILVER HAIR: GO PROFESSIONAL

to avoid any yellow undertones, without going too grey. A successful silver hair shade is

one that has very subtle purple undertones, The secret to the perfect which brings warmth to the hair and consilver hair lies in the hands of your professional hair tributes to the shimmery, metallic effect that colourist. Why? Silver hair is not simply grey makes silver hair so popular. hair, although as they grow older, some “WILL I SUIT SILVER women do find their hair HAIR?” colour naturally evolves This is one of the into the perfect silvery most common quesshade. This is not the tions that professional case for everyone, and If you’re starting with dark hair colourists get the latest silver hair trend hair, or hair that’s been asked, and the answer can be seen on women coloured repeatedly over the who haven’t even seen their first grey hair!

years, your hairdresser

will have to gently take you up to a clean, light colour for the silver shade to show and hold.

If you’re starting with dark hair, or hair that’s been coloured repeatedly over the years, your hairdresser will have to gently take you up to a clean, light colour for the silver shade to show and hold. Without the expertise of a professional, you risk not lightening the hair to the desired level, and possibly causing damage to the fibre. Even hair that’s naturally very light will still need to be coloured carefully, to avoid unwanted hues showing through.

Your colourist will ensure that, together, you choose the perfect shade of silver, taking into consideration the natural colour, thickness and porosity of your hair. You want

is usually, “Yes!” However, the success of your silver hair dye all depends on the undertones and how complementary they are against your skin tone. Tone is all-important when it comes

to colouring your hair; otherwise, you risk washing out your complexion. If you are one of many trying to embrace your natural highlights (grey hair) as I like to call them, but there isn’t quite enough coming through, a Living Doll Premier Stylists will be able to discuss with you how to create the look using some simple micro foils. Metallic, shiny silver - let’s embrace it, ladies. XO Dolls.

ure t a e f s u c fo A special

Coffs Coast focus 53

focusinterview.

luke and shannae morris

Strength & Movement

i New Breed ... We hear you like to be called an "Alternate Gym" - why is that? We are more based around a training centre that focuses not only on “fitness”, but rather a larger variety of methodologies and lifestyle practices. For example, we don’t just get fit - we actually teach skill sets that are based around performance and practical purposes, as well as assisting that development with things like nutrition, breathwork, combatives, mindset, environments, culture, plus a bunch more stuff. Our facility is also very unique and alternate to modern setups too. We have a tonne of living plants around, climbing walls, obstacles, open spaces, logs, and rocks, plus we have pretty much ditched the shoes so we can work on reestablishing our movement mechanics without the reliance on requiring "lifting" or "running" shoes etc. We have a motto that goes around at the gym: “leave your shoes and egos at the door”, so our culture is quite chilled and focused on exposing the reality of our capabilities. We don’t hide behind numbers on a bar; we always challenge and go into our weakest spots, so when the results are in, our tribe is prepared. Our offerings aren’t just limited to coaching or training either, as you might see in most gyms. We have a tribe education and support system which allows us to dive deeper into each individual member and get to really understand 54 Coffs Coast focus

their needs and requirements, to make gains in all aspects of life. Our system also provides a range of health practitioner products to even eco-friendly items - speaking of that, we have sourced a large chunk of our set up from recyclable and environmentally friendly things, so it’s a really cool gym to hang out in and check out the cool stuff too. So to sum it up, we focus on long term sustainable progress in a gym that is cool to hang out in,and the tribe are likeminded individuals chasing the same long term success. We are essentially carving our own path in the industry and aim to make a massive impact on the lives of our community. How long have you been involved within the Coffs Gym Culture? We’ve been a part of the gym culture since 2012 now. We knew the Coffs Coast needed our unique style of training and culture, so we gave every inch of our lives and embraced every bit of struggle to make this dream come true. How many people make up New Breed, and what is the age range? We have a very solid tribe made up of women and men, kids and teens, varying from ages five - 55 years. We have programs that communicate our philosophy to most ages, which is pretty awesome, since we literally have the ambition to change the world. What sort of preparation goes into getting

Luke and Shannae Morris are high school sweethearts who are now raising their two children here on the Coffs Coast, whilst also running their business together - combining their skills and strengths to start a New Breed of gym and balancing their work and home life as a family.

ready for training Coach. Bec has many years We knew the Coﬀs Coast with NB? Well, as our of experience working with needed our unique style methods are so unique, children and families from of training and culture, we focus on setting the all backgrounds, Yoga and so we gave every inch of our standards high when Meditation healing and sign lives and embraced every bit it comes to any area of language. of struggle to make this dream being a part of NB. First, What special events and come true. we have a conversation workshops do you hold on what the long term at NB? We are regularly game is, then we go hosting/running workshops through and introduce you everything about our throughout the year. We recently just ran our philosophies, methodologies, coaching staff, Tribe Retreat, which focused on bushcraft, tribe members, and we begin crafting the path survival skills, mindset, breathwork, and that you will take to reach your goals. We have connection. As a part of our education system, a beginner program to enter you into the world we have in-house workshops for the tribe, such of lifestyle success, to make this transition as as Nutrition, Mindset, Movement Specialty smooth as possible. workshops, plus we are launching our Set The Who makes up the team there? We have an Standard Beginners Program soon, to simply amazing Coaching Crew at NB. Let’s take a peek touch the tip of the iceberg. ... Set The Standard Program - can you explain Luke: Leading Mindset/Movement/ Strength/ what this is? And who can participate? Conditioning/Combatives Coach and Qualified Absolutely. Our Newest Beginner Program, “Set Nutritionist. The Standard” is an eight-week program of Shannae: Admin/ Yoga and Stretch Coach two sessions/seminars a week, with intensive with a background in Natural Healing and Yoga education from our coaches on our philosophies Philosophy. and movement/ mindset modalities. Tom: Movement/Foundations Coach with This program is for the local men and women a passion for movement education and who want fun and practical long term gains in handstands! health, as well as to get a taste of how and why Hailey: Kids and Adults Yoga/Maverick Dance we train the ways we do at NB and to leave Coach, with years of contemporary dance and feeling insightful and ready to embark on their self-expressive movement. journey within the gym culture. Reed: Strength and Development/Personal If you want to reach out and have a chat, you Training. Reed's our resident surfer dude, who is can find us here: also a lifeguard. www.newbreedmixedmartialarts.com.au Bec: Kids and Teens Dance/ Yoga Therapy

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Coffs Gropers golden oldies

The Coffs Gropers Golden Oldies Rugby team play regular social games, get together for a drink once a week and also love an international tour whenever they get the chance. We spoke to Greg Ward about what the team is all about and what he enjoys most about being a member. ey Greg. Tell us how the Coffs Gropers Golden Oldies came to be? During the '90s, some retired players had been playing the odd game together, using the name Gropers, and in early 2000s they got more organised and incorporated the club, purchased jumpers etc. There were already clubs up and down the coast playing on a regular basis, so the Gropers played irregularly against them and toured NZ in 2003, playing in the World Golden Oldies Tournament in Wellington. Some traditions were forged on that trip, some nicknames were born, legends spawned, and an appetite for touring developed. How often do you guys meet up? About 20 Gropers play Touch every Thursday in a social game amongst themselves on the beach, then meet at the Coast Hotel every Friday for a few social beers. We also sell raffle tickets and put funds towards helping develop some of the great junior rugby talent coming out of the Coffs Coast. Do people who join the team need to have experience in rugby? Some of our members have spent a lifetime playing Rugby, but others not at all. Enthusiasm and a thirst is all that is required. Who makes up the Gropers, and what would you say is the average age of the group? Our members come from all walks of life, some are retired, most are now over 50, and Cecil is 80+ (we lost count!) We also enjoy a very close association with our neighbouring clubs, Woopi Wobbygongs and the DUBs from Dorrigo/Urunga/Bellingen. How do you feel Rugby helps the members? We liken our club to the Men's Shed - a bit of casual, non-competitive sport, a common interest in Rugby, and a very social element.

Golden Oldies Rugby isn't just local, but a more international organisation. How many teams and players would you say there is worldwide? The World Tournaments attract some 3,000 players from many countries, so I imagine there would be ten times that many in clubs worldwide. The prospect of a tour sometimes ignites the formation of teams of former school mates, former club mates or work mates for that particular tournament. What are some of the destinations Coffs Gropers have played both locally and internationally? After the first tour to New Our club is well stocked with Zealand, we have travelled to comedians and jokers, so tournaments in Japan, Argentina, there is never a dull Norfolk Island, Cook Islands, and moment either on the back to Wellington in NZ last year. paddock, on the bus or We also attend carnivals in Moree, What has been one of your at the pub, so every season Walcha, Barraba, Port Macquarie, most personal favourite is full of great moments. and others as far north as Ballymore. moments while playing the We are planning a tour to Prague Gropers? and Warsaw next year and will be Our club is well stocked with the first Southern Hemisphere team comedians and jokers, so there is to ever play in those competitions. never a dull moment either on the paddock, on the bus What's it like playing against teams from around or at the pub, so every season is full of great moments. the world? The clubs we play against usually contain former Playing internationally is always a highlight; meeting opponents or team mates from years gone by, so you can players and having a game of rugby with similar Rugby imagine the social side is always eagerly anticipated. enthusiasts and partaking in a few refreshing ales For anyone looking to join the Coffs Gropers, where afterwards is what it's all about. Rugby is an international is the best place they can get in contact? language. Having a beer after a game in Mar del Plata, We gather at the Coast Hotel every Friday at about Argentina, with the former Japanese PM, Yosi Mori 5pm for a quick couple and play a casual game of Touch was interesting (not sure what he said though), and at Jetty Beach every Thursday starting at 5:30pm(after former Wallaby Steve Larkham joined the Gropers in Daylight Saving finishes, we play at Rugby Park). Christchurch and added some spark to our backline. Thanks Greg.

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EMY MANCE ACAD R O F R E P IC T COFFS ATHLE

COFFS ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE ACADEMY IN LAWSON CRES IS PAVING THE WAY IN STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING ON THE COFFS COAST. BOASTING OVER 400 SQM OF FLOOR SPACE, DECKED OUT WITH LIFTING PLATFORMS, SLED TRACK AND WALL TO WALL GEAR, IT IS HARD NOT TO BE IMPRESSED WHEN YOU FIRST WALK IN THE GARAGE DOOR. offs APA caters to athletes and individuals who are serious about their training and results. We are nothing like a normal gym. We offer intelligently programmed, effectively administered strength and conditioning training, catering to individuals committed to reaching their full potential as an athlete and human being. Founded into 2011 by Head Coach Chris Cherry, a university qualified exercise physiologist with Masters Degrees in Strength and Conditioning and Rehabilitation, Level 2 S&C Coach, Level 2 Olympic lifting coach, our gym was one of the first of its kind on the coast and has grown over the past eight years from its humble garage gym CrossFit roots to a training facility offering the best the strength and conditioning world has to offer. After many years as a CrossFit gym, we made the decision this year to cut ties with CrossFit. 56 Coffs Coast focus

CrossFit has served us well over the past eight years, and I will always remember where we came from and be grateful to CrossFit. Much of what we do is still “classic CrossFit”; however, whilst we still believe that CONSTANTLY VARIED FUNCTIONAL FITNESS PERFORMED AT HIGH INTENSITY is an effective way to train, we don’t believe it is the only way, nor suited to every individual. My experience as an S&C coach and years as an exercise physiologist has allowed me to put my own spin on things and really tailor our program to ensure we are offering the absolute best training experience for each individual in our gym, whether that be for performance, fitness, fat loss, rehabilitation, or somewhere in between. The benefits of our programming go way beyond the standard. With two exercise physiologists on staff, teamed with strength and conditioning coaches, CrossFit certified coaches

and personal trainers, you can be sure you are in good hands. We teach you to avoid injury, develop total body strength, and increase your power. You will master exercise techniques, transforming yourself not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. APA is not for the sometimes exerciser. We don’t offer casual sessions; our members are those that have made fitness a way of life. We are a community that includes people from all walks of life and fitness levels; you will find members from the military, full-time parents, doctors, business people, elite athletes, adaptive athletes, kids and grandparents, and our community are our best advertisers. While not all elite athletes, we are all committed to do what it takes to get better every single day. At APA we prioritise performance over aesthetics; you won’t find 10-week challenges, low calorie diets, and we don’t sell ourselves with

booty posts and cleavage shots. We strip back all the bull of the fitness world and focus on true honest grunt work, with fun along the way. For us to get you the results you want, we need to get to know you. Each new member is guided through a one hour PT session and an extensive consult. We want to know your strengths, your weaknesses, nutrition habits, health state and of course, your goals. You will then have access to a coach 24/7 for the rest of your days. With a full timetable catering to children, teens and adults, we focus on strength, speed, power and ultimate overall fitness. If you have outgrown your fitness routine and are ready to put in the work to find out what you are truly capable of, then Coffs APA is your new home. 1b Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour. Coffsapa@gmail.comor / 0412 936 524.

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Ferreira ow do you define your business’ unique selling point? JFHF combines Nutritional Coaching with my personal training skills, as well as my instructing skills to reach so many facets of my clients’ health and fitness journey. Walking the walk and talking the talk ... If I could teach my clients anything, it would be the importance of consistency. It is imperative to make changes that are achievable, measurable and can be adopted into your lifestyle.There is NO SUCH THING as a quick fix; if you want it, you have to work damn hard (as I have) but you also have to be able to live and love life! My job is about providing my clients with the tools and the confidence to create a healthy life they love. What is the most interesting part of your industry/role? The fact that I get to work so closely with so many different people who are on their own journeys and trust me enough to allow me into their lives. What are you passionate about, and is your passion also your work? I am incredibly passionate about health, fitness, instructing classes for my participants and challenging people to push their limits: whether it be a new PB, or simply getting their steps up every day. Everybody’s body is different and has been through different challenges. My motto is “YOU do YOU”. Since studying nutrition, I have learned the importance of fuelling your body with the right foods and what phenomenal changes the right nutritional choices can make on your health and fitness. Do you have any changes planned for 2019 within your business? If so, what are they and how will

they benefit your customers? Well, I have fallen in love with Body Balance and Yoga! Slowing my busy mind down by incorporating meditation and mindfulness into my everyday practices has made the biggest difference to me as a trainer, an instructor and as a human. I love imparting this joy, peace and clarity on to others and challenging my clients and participants to adopt it into their lives. I also plan on continuing to kick my own butt and reaching out to a huge audience of national instructors by presenting on the NSW LES MILLS Body Attack Team! I do have several other exciting projects that I am working on, but they are not quite ready to offer to the world yet! Who has been your biggest inspiration? Michelle Bridges has consistently been my biggest inspiration in the fitness industry. On a more personal level, my clients inspire me on a daily basis. Every person carries a life story with them and when I see them challenge themselves, push through adversity, reach their goals, be courageous and show pride in their actions ... it confirms for me why I do what I do. J.F.H.F top tips to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle - MOVE YOUR BODY! Wake up an hour earlier each day to walk, run, train or do something active - make small, achievable changes/ goals - meditate daily - incorporate mindfulness into your life - be kind to yourself - surround yourself with positive likeminded people who want the best out of you - be very mindful that nutrition controls your body fat, and weight training will shape your body - enjoy the process. Email: jenna@jfhf.com.au @J.F.H.F Jenna Ferreira Health & Fitness Coffs Coast focus 55

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Jess Bellette works as a Police Officer here on the Coffs Coast, and also trains and competes in CrossFit. SHE SHOWS A HUGE AMOUNT OF DEDICATION TO HER JOB AND ALSO TO HER FITNESS TRAINING, AND THE TWO SEEM TO COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER PERFECTLY. Jess says after a day on the job, CrossFit training keeps her feeling strong and alleviates stress.

i Jess. Tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast? I moved to the Coffs Coast in September 2016, after transferring in the Police Force from Surry Hills in Sydney to Nambucca Heads. After winning the position, my partner and I came up to check out the area and immediately fell in love with Sawtell. The trendy cafés and restaurants reminded us of the places we loved to visit in Sydney. After spending time on the beautiful beaches, we were sold! How long have you been a part of the Police Force? I joined the Police Force in May 2009, so this year will be my 10th anniversary. It has been a great 10 years, and I have my colleagues to thank for that. Time has flown by! I was first posted in Sydney’s inner-city suburb of Newtown. This was a great place to work, as it was quite a busy social hub. I then joined a specialist unit and undertook some plain clothes work, before transferring to Nambucca Heads in late 2016. What made you decide to become a Police Officer? I was always drawn to the emergency services. There was something about the uniform and serving something bigger than yourself that drew me in. I’ve always been active and could never imagine myself sitting behind a desk working the standard 9 to 5 job. I love the variety of work you get being a Police Officer, as no two days are the same. You compete in CrossFit; how did you first get in to that? I started CrossFit in 2013, when my partner introduced me to it. I immediately fell in love with the community and the physical challenges presented to me every day. I began taking on extra practice and noticed the gains quite quickly, which fuelled my competitive fire. I enjoy being competitive, and a great thing about CrossFit is that you don’t necessarily 58 Coffs Coast focus

need to be competitive with anyone else. You can be competitive with yourself, as there is always a personal I really enjoy training. benchmark to beat. likeminded individuals is way more I guess you could call Can you tell us what a CrossFit motivating. Heading into the gym is it my hobby. Working competition is and what’s involved? not a chore for me; it’s actually the out is a way to clear I have competed in a number of best part of my day. It’s where my my mind and let go competitions as an individual and as friends are, and it’s where I can blow of all the day's stress, part of a team. These have ranged off some steam and leave feeling particularly working from events held locally to online great. I also love being constantly as a Police Officer. national or worldwide completions. challenged. Like I said before, there Each year I participate in the “Open”. is always a new number to hit in my The Open is an online competition lifts or faster times to chase down. where one workout is released every Everything is recorded, so it’s great to look back over the week for five weeks. You have a certain amount of days to years and see the progress. complete the workout, film it, and submit your score. This is Have you always been into fitness and training/sport? a worldwide event, so it’s pretty cool to see where you stack I’ve always been active and into sport. As a kid, I loved up. Anyone from any skill level can participate in the Open, athletics and soccer. The 100 m sprint was my event of with the top 40 men and top 40 women from each country choice, but as a kid I struggled with the pressure I would progressing to the next level of competition. place on myself competing as an individual. I then found How often do you train, and what sort of preparation soccer and flourished in a team environment. do you do before a competition? Between the Police Force and CrossFit training, you I train most days, with a rest day sprinkled in when I feel must keep pretty busy! What else do you like to do in like I need it. This may seem like a lot, but I’m not doing your spare time? crazy workouts every single day. A lot of my training is skill Balancing work, training and family life is something I practice and learning technique to improve my conditioning am constantly working at. My partner gave birth to our and strength in the long run. I really enjoy training. I guess beautiful baby girl 10 months ago. Becoming a mother is you could call it my hobby. Working out is a way to clear my the best thing in the world, and it has certainly changed my mind and let go of all the day's stress, particularly working priorities. Training is still important to me, and I’ve made it a as a Police Officer. goal of mine to continue to train hard and improve. This just What do you love most about the sport? means I’ve had to be flexible with my training time, and I The thing I love most about CrossFit is the community. often have to train on my own in our garage gym. Thanks Jess. Doing a workout amongst a group of friends and

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James Sanders & Jake Birdsall hat motivates you? We began following CrossFit because of its attractive content and easy to implement strategies. This gave us a platform and direction. We started out small and focused on doing the simple things well. We have always had plans to grow CCCF and impact on a larger scale. We pride ourselves on doing the common, uncommonly well, with the desire to develop happy clients who share similar values. There is never a dull moment. We have so much fun working hard and achieving tasks together. The team of coaches we have developed are among the best coaches we have come across in the industry. Never satisfied, they all possess a growth mindset and look to be a better version of themselves every day. Our team shares a broad array of knowledge and experience with our clients on a personal level. These things combined give us an extreme level of motivation and passion in the industry. What is your favourite thing about being a personal trainer? Building strong relationships, gaining trust and investing in our clients’ lives. We try to provide more than just a fitness program. Remembering names and being authentic, as well as tracking progress and working around client limitations. We aim to be leaders in our community, leaders for our kids to look up to, leaders setting healthy and prosperous examples. We are more of a coach than a personal trainer. Our definition of being a coach is: “To improve the performance of your students both physically and mentally”. Our secret to creating strong relationships: we are in the fitness

industry, but our business forms relationships. Our coaches’ meetings are always centred around creating a better service to be more valuable to our community on a personal level. Sharing content and knowledge makes up only a portion of what we try to deliver. What we find even more important is the way we treat people individually. Our coaches are extremely caring, striving to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated. With this at the foundation, our coaches develop ways to deliver content in a caring manner. Tell us about the culture of Coffs Coast CrossFit. Our culture has formed organically. It’s diverse in every corner of the gym. People from all different walks of life come together to form our community. I can’t think of any other environment where you could find this level of diversity in such a close community. When you add exercise, it creates a level of comradery which enables bonds to form. There are no mirrors to make people feel uncomfortable, and there are no unrealistic expectations that people need to strive for. Our community acknowledges every little success. Recently we had someone skip for the first time. It was like someone had won a gold medal at the Olympics! You can’t fake that, and you certainly don’t get that anywhere else. Whether it’s skipping or another achievement, every goal is respected and treated just as important as the next. 0423 872 425 or 0434 579 772 19 Forge Dr, North Boambee Valley www.coffscoastcrossfit.com

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W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s FitChat comes to us courtesy of Coffs Coast Health Club Founder, Duncan Marchant. He is a huge advocate of the positive psychological benefits of exercise and believes that “a negative mind will never give you a positive life”. It’s time to Move Your Mood!

ental health issues such as chronic stress, depression and anxiety are prevalent within our society. Almost one in two Australians experiences a mental health condition in their lifetime. According to the Australian Psychological Society Stress and Wellbeing in Australia Survey 2015, 35% of Australians reported a significant level of distress in their lives; 26% report above normal levels of anxiety and 26% report moderate to extremely severe depression symptoms. “The fact is that if you are working with people, then you’re working with people experiencing these conditions - it’s just whether you know it or not,” says Dr Simon Rosenbaum. Evidence for the role of exercise in depression is compelling, indicating that it can reduce the likelihood of developing the condition, as well as alleviating symptoms. “There are some high levels of evidence suggesting that for some people with depression, exercise can be of equivalent benefit to anti-depressant medications and also that exercise is a very good add-on therapy,” says Dr Rob Stanton. GETTING THE “DOSE” RIGHT - We know exercise is beneficial for mental health, but how much is needed to reap the benefits, at what intensity and how frequently? These are questions that scientists are still investigating; however, we do know the following: 1. ENJOYMENT MATTERS: “Research shows the ‘affective valence’ or pleasure response to a single bout of aerobic exercise can predict participation in the long-term, six and 12 months down the track,” says Dr Rob Stanton. “The less pleasurable the activity is perceived to be, the less likely people are to engage in exercise in the future.” This is

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particularly important for clients with mental illness, whose motivation and self-efficacy may be low. Training with a buddy or personal trainer can increase the enjoyment. 2. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE INTENSIVE: In a 2013 review of exercise program variables, it was found that aerobic exercise, undertaken three times weekly at moderate intensity for a minimum of nine weeks, was beneficial for depression. “What’s great about this is that it’s no different to what’s commonly prescribed for the general population,” says Stanton. You don’t need to be a superstar to participate and get the benefits. 3. CONSISTENCY IS KEY: “We can’t expect exercise to be a cure; it can help people manage their condition and get back to a functional recovery where they can live their life, but long-term behavioural change is what we need to focus on,” says Dr Simon Rosenbaum. The convenience of being able to access a 24/7 health club can mean the difference between getting the workout in or giving up. 4. INCLUDE WEIGHT TRAINING: “There are studies to show that weight training is as good as aerobic measures for changes in mood, anxiety and intellectual capacity, and we should be doing it a few times a week anyway,” says John Ratey, Associate Clinical Professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Thanks for sharing, Duncan and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational health and fitness story … Simply call 1300 040 479 or drop in to see the friendly Coffs Coast Health Club team at either Toormina or Moonee Beach to get started today.

TO STRETCH, OR NOT TO STRETCH That is the question... You finish a workout, you have a stretch and then you go home. Great, right? But do you know why you stretched? There is a lot of myths around stretching. “I think it is because I didn’t stretch enough” is a common statement when people present to physiotherapy clinics with a sports injury. Aaron Hardaker, Director of Mid North Coast Physio, caught up with Physiotherapist (and Level 2 Weightlifting Coach) Julian White to discuss some of the common myths around stretching, and what the research really says.

’ve just finished a big personal training session at Coffs Coast Health Club. Will stretching help me to be able to climb stairs tomorrow? Sadly, probably not. While people often stretch after a training session to try and alleviate delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), the research suggests stretching before or after a workout (or game) will not make much of a difference. (1) You’re still likely to feel sore, meaning those stairs may still be a problem! Is there anything I can do to stop delayed onset muscle soreness? There is no “cure” for DOMS. Things that can help are: • An active recovery (continued low intensity physical activity, like walking in a pool) • Remedial massage • Cold-water immersion Ideally, you should be careful with big changes in your training intensity, as that’s where you’ll get the most soreness and the highest risk of injury. The more conditioned you are, the less you’ll hurt the next day. Will stretching stop me from getting injuries? A review in the most recent British Journal of Sports Medicine looked at injury prevention for lower limb sporting injuries. The most effective components that reduced injury risk were strength and balance training. The authors stated the following regarding stretching: “stretching added no beneficial effect in decreasing sports

injuries. Several other studies also found limited evidence to support the benefits of stretching before or after training for injury prevention.” (2) So, whether you’re coming back from injury or trying to keep yourself on the field, there’s a lot more to injury prevention than just doing a couple of stretches. Are you saying people should stop stretching? Not at all. Stretching still has plenty of use in physiotherapy, sports and regular training. What is most important is that you know why you’re doing what you’re doing. If you want to step up your training, minimise your risk of injury and feel good - get some qualified advice to set you on the right path. Come in and speak to myself or one of our other physiotherapists to find out what the best plan is for you. We can help you set your goals, and work with you to build a plan to get there. Thanks Julian. If you want to understand how to best utilise stretching to look after your body, Mid North Coast Physio is offering 10 FREE Physio Assessments to understand your needs and provide you with a clear recommended plan of action. Call 1300 27 37 47 or go to mncphysio.com.au to make a booking now. References: (1) D Herbert, Robert & De Noronha, Marcos & Kamper, Steven. (2011). Stretching to prevent or reduce muscle soreness after exercise. Cochrane database of systematic reviews (Online) https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/ doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004577.pub3/full (2) Brunner R, Friesenbichler B, Casartelli NC, et al. Effectiveness of multicomponent lower extremity injury prevention programmes in team-sport athletes: an umbrella review. Br J Sports Med 2019; 53:282-288.

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Southern Cross University Sport+Fitness Centre Jono Oates is a local Coffs Coast man who is passionate about coffee; the extent of his knowledge is obvious, when you mention the “caféscene”. From starting his hospitality career in “Sunny-Sawtell” more than 10-years ago, Jono has returned after working in the UK.

ith the help of his family, Jono established a café in Sawtell almost two years ago and has now added another - opening The Hub Café at the newly renovated C.ex Coffs International Stadium. We wanted to catch up with Jono to hear about the newly established “stadium café”… So, tell us about your hospitality background and what started your passion for coffee ... I moved to the Coffs Coast when I was 21 and started working at cafés and restaurants in Sawtell whilst studying at university. From there, my family and I had an opportunity to purchase a café in First Avenue: Zest Café. It was from this that I met my (now) English wife Catharine, and I soon followed her back to the U.K. I landed myself a position with a coffee company. “Coffee #1” - literally five-time winner of Café of the Year awards. I was lucky enough to work my way up and become Head Barista Trainer U.K., training all the experienced baristas on advanced coffee making and knowledge. How did the Hub Café at the C.ex International Stadium come about for you, and what inspired you to start the new venture? Since our return to our own Zest Café in Sawtell almost two years ago, we had always mentioned wanting to branch out into another establishment. As previous opportunities to do just that hadn’t arisen, we saw great opportunity in the establishment of our Hub Café at the Stadium. To be part of such an iconic sporting venue for not only locals, but Iinternational athletes is a real privilege. The inspiration stems from wanting to be connected with the local sporting community and also be a part of a such a positive, local initiative that is building a first class sporting venue for the future. Tell us more about the Hub Café and what you offer customers … Our Hub Café is situated in the Stadium’s state of the art sports management building, The Hub located at the northern end of the

main stadium carpark off Stadium Drive. The café is open for event days throughout the year and also to passing trade from 6:30am Monday to Friday. We offer locally roasted Botero coffee, sweets, savoury items, fresh sandwiches, wraps and rolls, cold drinks and also the newest healthy craze of “Smoothie Bowls” such as Acai and Pitaya bowls, plus cold press juice options! When did the café open, and how are you finding the space now that you are trading? We had our Official Opening at the same time as the Official Stadium Stage 1 opening on Monday 11th March … with approx. 200 guests and also VIP parliamentary members, including our very own Deputy PM Michael McCormack! We rolled straight from the opening day into our first stadium event, being the National Touch Football, with approx. 5,000 people on site over the four days. The café space is proving to be an indispensable facility to serve high volume, quality, fresh food and beverages from. How do you see the benefit of having the new facility for customers both for events and thought the weekday mornings on non-event days? The café space has already proven itself to be an extremely positive addition to the Stadium offering for our sporting participants and also creates a central place for participants and spectators to relax and enjoy quality food and beverages with the option of sitting at tables and chairs under umbrellas in the courtyard area in front of the café; just adjacent to the main stadium. On weekdays when events will not be happening, locals and passers-by can pop-in to the Hub Café for a top-class coffee, sweet or savoury option or even try one our Smoothie Bowl’s. The Hub Café is conveniently located on Stadium Drive where passing traffic can comfortably drive into the carpark and easily collect a pre-ordered coffee on the way to work or the school run, for example. Thanks Jono. We’ll look forward to caching up over another quality coffee again soon...

As the winter months creep in and mornings and evenings begin to grow colder and darker everyone’s motivation to exercise can wane. Here are some tips to either get you on the right track or keep you on the right track in the weeks and months ahead. 1. Buddy up Get a group together of like-minded and supportive friends that are going to get you out of bed or make you pack your gym bag for after work. Even elite athletes who are super motivated engage training partners. Set yourself up for success and tick this box early. 2. Find your routine Some people are morning trainers, some squeeze it into a lunch break, others at the end of the day. Find the routine that works best for you and make it part of your daily ritual.

3. Get a professional to write you a program With so much information available on the dos and don’ts of exercise it can be hard to determine what works and what is best for you. Find the best qualified and most experienced industry professional and get them to write you a program. At Southern Cross Sports and Fitness Centre we have memberships starting at $6 per week and are open from 6am-8pm Monday to Thursday and 6am-7pm on Fridays. Programs are included and while all of our staff are qualified, many have tertiary credentials. If you are after a gym, or just a change of sceneryconsider our team. Let’s get started Tim Welsford

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WITH DAN HEATHER C.EX COFFS INTERNATIONAL STADIUM

epic

Stadium BUILDING AN

FOR THE FUTURE

Earlier this month C.ex Coffs International Stadium celebrated the opening of Stage 1 of a multi-million dollar upgrade. We caught up with Daniel Heather at the opening to tell us more.

xciting times SatT the AGE 1 NO stadium, Dan; tell us bit about the opening. We are definitely excited about our new facilities! The Stage 1 opening marked an important milestone in the project, with the new North and South Grandstands now complete. We also opened The Hub, which offers co-located office spaces for local sports and stadium event organisers. The ribbon was officially cut by Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Denise Knight and Federal Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker. Also there to celebrate were representatives from the Coffs Harbour business community,

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W local O P Etrades N and contractors who have been

involved with the project, stadium members and local and state sports organisations. It was a great morning! Why did the stadium need an upgrade? While the stadium is renowned for its exceptional playing surface, the grandstand is 25 years old and to remain competitive in attracting and retaining events, this is a much needed upgrade. The stadium attracts around 86,000 visitors annually, which generates more than 160,000 overnight stays, delivering $24.3m to the local economy. The "Building an EPIC Stadium for the Future" project is delivering a massive increase in seating and technology for spectators, upgraded accessibility, amenities,

C.ex Group Board Members at the opening catering and bar outlets, parking and better pedestrian integration. Event organisers will benefit from state-of-the-art player change rooms, coaching and media boxes, and corporate hospitality suites. The beauty of the building design is that it allows us the flexibility to host premier sporting events that are broadcast live, through to school events and athletic carnivals. It’s a truly versatile and multi-use venue. It looks fantastic; is there a story behind the design? We set out to ensure the stadium reflected the qualities of the Coffs Coast; the blue and green themes you see throughout the buildings represent the coastal and hinterland environments that make our region so special. The colours flow subtly throughout internal rooms, as well as the outside of the buildings, making each of them quite unique. The colours also help with easy identification and navigation for crowded, busy events.

Who would you like to thank? The "Building an EPIC Stadium for the Future" project has attracted support from across the Coffs Coast. We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the C.ex Group (board members pictured above), Infracraft Pty Ltd and Key Employment Ltd for their vital financial support. This support, combined with contributions from the Australian Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund and Coffs Harbour City Council, has brought this project to life. The project has been driven by lead contractor Lipman Pty Ltd, supported by their design team from Hassell Sports Architects and Coffs Harbour’s own local DRA Architects, as well as project managers APP and a range of national and state sporting bodies, and delivered by 25 local subcontractors. So, what’s next? Stage 2! The redesign of the original grandstand has already begun, and it will open later in 2019.

Combined Self Defence & Fitness When and why did you start your business? I had been teaching in schools since 1992, and the structure back then made a few people very wealthy without offering value back to the students. So, in 2000 I created CSDF (Combined Self Defence & Fitness); this allowed more money to be injected locally to offer longer hours for flexibility and better facilities for students. It also allowed for instructors to continually broaden their knowledge both locally and overseas, all adding value to students. What services do you offer? CSDF offers a variety of services, mainly focused on health, fitness and self-defence; these services are based around my experience in both Taekwondo and Hapkido. We also offer Grappling and Fitness classes for both internal, as well as external students. Most rewarding part of your job? To watch the growth and commitment when a student works to attain a Black Belt within chosen style or system at CSDF. Over the years we have done many self-defence awareness courses for women experiencing domestic violence and even for the visually impaired, so to watch the attendeesâ€™ confidence and self-esteem build and their awareness of staying safe is very pleasing and gratifying. Tell us about your classes. Our classes normally run for about an hour, allowing for warmups and stretching, some strength work as well as syllabus work, finishing normally with some theory and meditation.

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focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

MattHoy.

H O Y S A L L I E D H E A LT H +WELLNESS

att, tell us how you came to call the Coffs Coast home? After finishing school in Canberra, I went on to complete university in Albury-Wodonga. When I finished my degree, I was offered a job as a physiotherapist by my cousin (and business partner to be) Rob Hoy, to join him at Baringa Private Hospital - and I guess the rest is history. Coffs became my home and where I will raise my kids and continue to surf some great breaks! You’re a qualified physiotherapist; why did you choose this field as your career? After a few Rugby injuries, and as you can imagine, quite a bit of time spent at a sports physio practice as a patient, I thought hanging out in a busy practice full of athletes looked like great fun. So, I gave it a shot, got through the degree and have thoroughly enjoyed my journey so far. Recently your business has undergone some exciting changes; can you tell us about them? Over the last 14 years, our physiotherapy business has grown to include three practice locations at Coffs Harbour Jetty, Sawtell and the newest location, Toormina Medical Centre. Our team has also grown to over 30 professionals, across a variety of health disciplines. Rob and I decided that it was time to reposition the Hoys Physio brand to encompass all of the allied health services that we now offer our patients, as well as our philosophy of bettering patients’ overall wellbeing, so that they live their life to the fullest. Hence, our new name - Hoys Allied Health + Wellness was launched this year. The new brand really embodies our approach to caring for our patients’ injury and ailment recovery and chronic disease management, so we are helping them to improve their overall wellbeing and to live a hopefully better lifestyle. Being an allied health care provider, what services can you provide people? At Hoys Allied Health + Wellness, we can assist in your recovery from injury or surgery, helping you manage your pain, stiffness and weakness and to get you back on track to better health. We also assist in helping you to manage chronic disease with an individual exercise and diet plan, to improve your overall wellbeing and lifestyle. Our services include Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Occupational Therapy, Nutrition and Dietetics, Remedial Massage, Core Strength and

Group Exercise classes, Hydrotherapy, Women’s Health Physiotherapy, and Radial Shock Wave Therapy. We also are a registered provider for the NDIS and offer Medicare and health cover rebates. All services are available from our three convenient locations at Coffs Harbour Jetty, Sawtell and Toormina Medical Centre, with the exception of Hydrotherapy, which is run at Coffs and Toormina public pools, and our core exercise classes, which are run at our Coffs Harbour Jetty practice. We welcome any new patients! With any service-based business, and in particular health care, marketing your services can be costly and restrictive. What have you found to be the best marketing channels? There definitely are a lot of restrictions put on the health care industry, and rightly so; after all, it is a highly qualified and individualised care industry, so advice needs to be taken on a case by case basis. Restrictions include things The new brand really like how we refer to our embodies our approach service expectations and to caring for our ensured that the admin even to online reviews. patients’ injury and ailment team can help patient However, what we can tell recovery and chronic disease enquires from any you is after nearly 14 years management, so we are helping location. of tracking how our clients them to improve their overall Running a business came to find out about us, wellbeing and to live a hopefully means at times you word of mouth and doctor better lifestyle. are juggling a number referrals have both been of balls at once. What equally responsible for over key lessons have your 30% of our new business. learnt along the way? Our communication Taking time off the with our patients is tools, so to speak, is part of my plan for the something we are conscious of, considering that coming year. As a business owner you always as a business we have evolved to include more feel the need to work extra hard to ensure your complimentary services that they may not be business is performing well, earning money and aware we offer. keeping staff and patients content; all the while How has technology played a role in making you time poor for all the important things improving the business and the customer that allow a business to grow and flourish. Once experience? we have a plan for what we want to achieve With three business locations, having paper i.e. growth, offer new services, we then set out medical records, different booking systems planning for what would be involved in getting and phone systems present daily challenges it to work. A good plan allows you to be aware with communication and getting therapists of what your weaknesses are, so you can either the information they need in a timely manner. With the improvement of technology and Coffs outsource or upskill in this area. Harbour getting the NBN, we were able to utilise When we first started out in business, we Cloud-based paperless systems for both patient would always try to do everything ourselves, booking and medical records, which is a massive even if it was an identified weakness, but we advancement in open communication and have found that getting help from other industry records. Also, having a linked phone system has professionals, branding ideas for marketing,

budgets from our accountant to be viable in a new venture make a big difference to not only executing a good plan well, but also in helping to find a better balance with all the balls a business owner juggles on an ongoing basis. What do you love most about your work? I really enjoy the challenge of helping people to get better, knowing what an injury is when diagnosed is the easiest part. Knowing why it occurred and what specifically will help the individual makes a speedy and durable recovery is the challenge and makes every injury unique and interesting for me. It’s also nice to help a patient get a better quality of life back after injury or ailment too. Fast forward five years; what does Hoys Allied Health + Wellness look like? I would really like to think that the Allied Health team approach that Hoys have adopted will start to make a real impact on preventing and reversing chronic disease that is on trend, and not in a good way, to becoming a bigger and bigger problem for the ageing Coffs Coast population, putting more stress on the local medical system. Hopefully, by providing a wide range of complimentary Allied Health services and professionals, we can do our bit to improve the health and wellbeing of the Coffs Coast people. Thanks Matt. Coffs Coast focus 67

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W I T H B D C P R I N C I PA L N I C K J O H N S TO N E

focus_tech

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

Experiential

Tech Head Experiential learning in its tightest definition is “learning by doing”.

he student is, therefore, learning. Community service is also an essential actively engaged in the part of building an effective experiential educational process, not just learning program. The school fence should not a passive participant. The limit the opportunities for student engagement content, idea or concept being or growth potential. Students need to feel part pursued must be relevant or of the community, not just a subsection of interesting to the student. In a more broader it. Scientific experiments need to have opendefinition, experiential learning is concerned ended problems or have a problem-solving with supporting student growth. It is important component. Case studies, in the humanities, in today’s context, as our next generation need need to have both a local and global context. to be adaptable, tenacious, courageous and ICT needs to support the educational process inventive. They need to be problem solvers, and build our capacity to communicate without or as I have read recently, they need to be boundaries. solutions oriented. I also Schools are generally believe that our students on this pathway; need the world prepared however, to inspire your essentials of teamwork, local school, whether it an appreciation of be public, Catholic or I ALSO BELIEVE diversity, and a sense independent, I encourage THAT OUR STUDENTS of civic responsibility. you to ask some key NEED THE WORLD Effective experiential questions of your PREPARED ESSENTIALS learning sows the seed school’s principal around OF TEAMWORK, AN within our students that experiential learning. APPRECIATION OF DIVERSITY, AND A SENSE “there is more in you Are students OF CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY. than you think”. encouraged to Kurt Hahn, make discoveries for industrialist, educator themselves? and founder of two Are students international organisations (Outward Bound challenged to take responsibility for their own and Round Square) coined the term experiential learning journey? learning. He stated, “I regard it (experiential Is school feedback encouraged? learning) as the foremost task of education Do students understand the connections to ensure the survival of these qualities: an between their curriculum and their personal enterprising curiosity, an undefeatable spirit, lives? tenacity in pursuit, readiness for sensible selfIs there a sense of connectedness between denial, and above all, compassion.” the classroom and their local or global What does experiential learning look community? like beyond the normal classroom? Schools Are there opportunities for students to reflect can engage their students through a raft quietly on their own actions and learnings and of programs, from mock-trials or debates to set goals for improvement? about issues that relate to them, to business Are students extended beyond their own internships, to outdoor education camps, where physical, social and cultural comfort zones? students take the responsibility to organise and Does the school encourage environmental lead. Other opportunities in schools can involve stewardship, leadership, service, and adventure undertaking drills to improve skills in sports in our natural environment? or musical pursuits, or using active learning Is the school preparing their child for an strategies to engage English and language exciting but rapidly changing future?

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choosing your first

DSLR F T. C A N O N E O S D 2 0 0

Looking for a camera, especially if it’s your first time moving into the DSLR or mirrorless market, you are bombarded by choice, so in this tech review we will be going over what to look for when taking your first steps into the

world of photography.

have been lucky enough to pursue a lens that you would use for landscapes, a photography career in the past such as a 24 mm or wider, will definitely not five years. I have seen many entry be the best choice for a portrait. You can level cameras come and go and find single lenses with multiple focal lengths, have seen what works for beginners so you can carry around a single lens for all using both Canon, Nikon and other brands. types of photography. Just remember, your lenses will outlive your Picking up a camera camera! for the first time can be very daunting, and So with all that said and your first camera is the done, the camera I’d most important; it’s the go with would be the one that cements you Canon EOS 200D. The THE BETTER THE into this wonderful and Canon EOS 200D is a CAMERA - THE sometimes frustrating great camera and really MORE YOU PAY, art. fun to use. It’s tiny and BUT THIS DOESN’T lightweight, yet the MEAN YOU’RE First off is price; price grip is comfortable, and GOING TO GET plays an enormous it has some of Canon’s BETTER SHOTS. part, and things can most advanced features get expensive really (including the newer 24 fast - especially if you megapixel sensor). My realise photography isn’t first impression coming for you and you’re left from a pro model Canon was sceptical, with a very expensive dust collector! The but I honestly enjoyed using this camera! better the camera - the more you pay, but It’s not just for a first-time DSLR shooter, this doesn’t mean you’re going to get better even though that is its target audience. It shots. Photography is an art, and as such has dual pixel focus, which is an incredible it’s all up to the user and the way they see addition. Being able to touch the back of light and a subject. I’ve seen shooters with the screen in live view will have you taking insanely good gear take incredibly bad shots, super sharp images in no time. It comes with and I’ve seen some incredible iPhone photos, a flip screen, which is great for video and any if that’s something to go by. But, pricier budding vlogger. After reviewing the shots, I cameras do make the job a lot easier. have to say they were impressive, and I was Interchangeable lenses should be the first greeted with amazingly sharp 24 megapixel and most important thing on the list of needs images and Canon’s signature colour science. when it comes to your camera. As you grow For the price, you just can’t go wrong with as a photographer, the more you will want this gem, and wish I had something like this to use different focal lengths. For example, when I started.

clever CONVEYANCING

Clever Conveyancing’s owner and principal is Susan MacAskill, a licensed conveyancer and Justice of the Peace who is celebrating 15 years in business on 1st April 2019!

onveyancing is basically the transfer of ownership of property from one party to another. This is our area of expertise and as we do not handle other areas of law, our focus is on YOU and your sale or purchase - to ensure that the transaction is smooth and as stress free as we can possibly achieve for you! We take care of all the legal aspects and advise you every step of the way, so that you can concentrate on moving!

Clever Conveyancing is a small friendly practice, located at Moonee Beach, with Susan “at the helm” and ably assisted by Sarah Shea, a qualified paralegal, and together we make a great team. We are here to help you through the whole process of either selling OR purchasing your property. We will guide you through the whole process! We handle residential - Torrens Title, Strata and Community Title - and rural properties, and

residential subdivisions. Susan just loves to look platform - Susan was the first conveyancer in after the first home buyers - they are so excited the Coffs Harbour area to effect a simultaneous about entering the market, and unsure of what sale and purchase settlement - and that was in to expect, but we guide these first home buyers June 2017! through every step of the way, and advise them On 1st July 2019, every single conveyancing of the First Home Buyer benefits that can assist transaction MUST be effected electronically, them with the purchase of their very first home! and Clever Conveyancing is very experienced Clever Conveyancing has now been operating and ready for this momentous change in the for 15 very successful conveyancing profession. years, and our clients are Gone will be the days very happy and satisfied of buying bank cheques and keep returning to us and handing over again and again, as they manual documents - with are confident they will be electronic settlements it Clever Conveyancing as well looked after as is all done “online” and has now been operating they were the first time! if purchasing, you will be for 15 very successful Many of our clients have registered on title within years, and our clients referred family members, 40 minutes of settlement are very happy and neighbours and friends taking place, as the satisfied and keep to us, and that confirms lodgement of documents returning to us again their satisfaction with the is also done electronically. and again. service we provide - and Clever Conveyancing referrals are what grows operates 9 - 1, 2 - 5 our business! Monday to Friday, but if Susan’s favourite you cannot attend during pastime on weekends and holidays is spending those hours, then Susan will come to your as much time as possible with her nine home or place of business! grandchildren, who bring immense pleasure These days, with the pace of life so very busy (and lots of fun!) into her life. Susan also loves for everyone, we can email all documents to our to travel and spend time at the beach, enjoying clients, so we often look after clients in other the beautiful part of the world in which we live. states or even overseas who cannot attend our Clever Conveyancing has embraced electronic office personally. conveyancing via the PEXA electronic settlement Give us a call on 6653 7955!

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focusinterview.

Header – Adventures in Business Size – Full Page Interviewee – Courtney Tune Business – Alt-Collective – Entrepreneurship Facilitator Services

ong-time, no see, Courtney! FOCUS were there in 2014 when you kicked off your last business adventure 63 First Ave (aka Mothers Milk). What’s been happening since? Business … business … business … and learning a bunch along the way! It’s such a big education owning a small business. I’ve been lucky enough to do an undergrad business degree growing up in Victoria and a post grad degree here at SCU, but there’s no education like “getting your hands dirty” in business itself - the school of hard knocks that is five years in the hospitality industry - that’s what’s been happening! We sold 63 First Ave late last year to some really great crew - it’s nice to stop by there and relax on the other side of the bar for a change. It was definitely the most challenging thing I’ve ever done, but small business is really addictive. To get to share something you’re passionate about with other likeminded people - the independence, creativity and flexibility of being your own boss - I’ve spent most of my career working for other people, but I’ve never been able to find that in a job. When we sold our business, I started working with other people in small business, helping out with planning and goal setting, finding focus, who to target and how - and so, the Alt-Collective was born. Shortly after, a contract came up for a new Entrepreneur Facilitator Program being run by the Australian Government, so I figured I might as well put my hat in the ring. It’s not often that these programs are awarded to small businesses, so I figured it was a bit of a long shot - but you’ve

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got to be in it to win it. So, tell us about the Entrepreneur Facilitator Services? It’s about promoting opportunities in selfemployment, breaking down barriers to small business - helping people to understand what things they need to have in place to succeed, then helping clients put in place a plan of how to get there. There is a focus on those over the age of 45 - particularly those who have been displaced by company restructures. However, the service is available to anyone starting or growing a small business in the Bellingen, Clarence and Coffs Council areas. There are no costs to participants, thanks to the program funding from the Australian Government. It’s a pretty flexible program. At the moment, I’m working with some people with loads of business experience and education; for these type of clients, it’s often about just throwing ideas around - having someone to bounce ideas off. On the other end of the scale, I’m working with people with no business experience at all, so for these clients it’s about introducing them to the basics of business, putting in place a plan of attack, and connecting them with the right people to help them succeed. One of the big aims of the program will be connecting small business with the support that they need to be successful. You can tend to isolate yourself in those early stages of business, but it should be the opposite - you should be surrounding yourself with as much support as you can. There are loads of great services out there in our region for small business - both public and private - so part of my role will be to make sure new and growing small businesses are connecting with those

services to achieve refining your product success. and putting it out in the WHEN WE SOLD OUR You’re a Sole Trader, public realm. One thing BUSINESS, I STARTED working on your I learnt in business was WORKING WITH OTHER own; what’s behind that if you can get your PEOPLE IN SMALL the name Altwellbeing right - find a BUSINESS, HELPING OUT Collective? bit of balance in business WITH PLANNING AND GOAL When you’re in small and maintain that passion SETTING, FINDING FOCUS, business, you’re never - your creative juices WHO TO TARGET AND working on your own. start to flow, and you HOW - AND SO, THE ALTI think success comes become more competitive. COLLECTIVE WAS BORN. from connecting and As well as working collaborating with other with more traditional likeminded individuals, business networks, such as marketers and and that’s what I accountants, we’re currently connecting with wanted this business to be all about. Since people working in the wellbeing space, with we kicked off, I’ve been lucky enough to start an aim of taking a holistic approach to small working with a bunch of really inspiring small business support. businesses, so it’s shaping up to be a great What are you looking forward to most program. about the program? Alt comes from the notion that we take a Just getting to hang out with passionate and little bit of a different approach to business inspired people. Small business people tend success. I think financial factors are often the to have this “sky’s the limit” type of attitude driver of business development - sales and anything is possible, you know. I’m just looking selling, cutting costs etc. - and don’t get me forward to being able to share in the adventure wrong; they’re definitely a central component and hopefully provide a little support in the to running a successful small business and background - play my part in making sure they something that we have a strong focus on. don’t lose that small business spirit. But, I think passion, fun, and an enjoyment in And, how can people get involved? what you’re doing are just as important. If you Just get in touch. I’ve set up an office in the can find these in business, then the financial main street of Sawtell. I’ve lived in Sawtell for success will often follow. the past 13-years - it’s such a beautiful and What do you see as the biggest challenge vibrant main street and community, so I figured in starting a business? it was the perfect place to base the new There are so many, but when you start up a venture. I’ll be on the road between Dorrigo small business, one of the biggest challenges and Yamba a few days a week, which I’m really I found is that your personal wellbeing often looking forward to. If clients can’t get to me, goes out the door - lack of sleep, financial then I can always get to them! stress, the stresses that come with testing and

focusinterview.

heryl Duguid is the founder of Pure Heart Wellbeing - a holistic health and wellbeing business helping people to manage stress and regain control in their lives. Sheryl’s been working with Courtney at Alt-Collective on sharpening up her business - we caught up with Sheryl, to find out more. My business name says it all! This is how I approach life, and I encourage all who work with me to do the same. Aim to eat, think and be as “pure” as you can. Live your life wholeheartedly, full of love. Prioritise and value your health and wellbeing. How did Pure Heart Wellbeing evolve? I have been facilitating meditation wellbeing sessions for over 15 years. I have worked as a registered nurse, having experience in adult and children nursing. I am a wife and a mother to four adult children - life was busy and often chaotic. Just before I turned 40, I had been very busy being caught up being the perfect mother, wife, daughter, friend etc. I was trying on a new dress and when I looked in the mirror, I didn’t recognise myself ... I burst into tears … and it was in that moment I realised that if I didn’t change how I was living, I was going to get sick or go mad! That was the beginning of my journey to knowing who I am and of valuing my health and my wellbeing. This is what drew me to

learning meditation, learning yoga, and then going on to complete courses in meditation and learning how energy flows in crystals and in sound. This whole “new world” fascinated me, and it continues to do so! My knowledge of the physical body is detailed and extensive. I am now working with the mind and soul body aspect. The human body is an amazingly complicated thing. The more I learn, the more I realise I have much more to learn! What sort of clients do you work with? I’ve taken my meditation/relaxation into schools to support senior students’ exam anxiety and stress. I’m also continuing to support Jane Tavenar’s abused women’s program. This is an area of our community that is in great need. I currently offer group meditations in Sawtell and Sapphire. I’m a crystal girl and love sharing my knowledge in interactive crystal workshops. I offer a safe, private space where you can relax and then slowly gain confidence and trust to make good, healthy decisions. We need to be kind and compassionate to ourselves and to others - remembering that love is a most powerful force! How has working on the business enabled Pure Heart Wellbeing to grow? Last year I asked Courtney to review Pure Heart Wellbeing, with the view of getting more focused and amp it up. I’ve enjoyed the

Pure Heart

Wellbeing Sheryl Duguid

flexibility small business offers - being able to choose when and where I work. With Courtney’s guidance, I have streamlined my business and recognised the importance of marketing, enabling me to become more efficient with my time and better at broadcasting what I do. It’s exciting to be a part of the Entrepreneur Program’s Wellbeing Business Group. We meet in a casual setting, and everyone is encouraged to contribute. Courtney has a unique way of looking at business. He has fresh, up to date ideas. He inspires us to aim higher and wider!

What’s on the horizon for Pure Heart Wellbeing? My “Reach for the Stars” goal is to create an interactive health and wellbeing day here on the Coffs Coast, showcasing all the amazing talent that we have tucked away on this beautiful coast of ours. Stay tuned! I’m sure, if it launches, Courtney and Alt Collective will be there in the background somewhere! SHERYL DUGUID PURE HEART WELLBEING Pureheartwellbeing.com sheryl@pureheartwellbeing.com

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Barry Hockey Accountants Billabong Zoo The Billabong Zoo team are proud to announce that our African Lions, Misty and Milo, have become proud parents … AGAIN! On the 4th January 2019, at 2am big cat keepers were woken from their sleep by the noisy (but wonderful) squawk of a newborn cub. Misty was so calm and relaxed and kept Milo around. When Keepers Brooke and Christy woke to the cub noise and checked the cameras, he was lying right beside Misty as she cleaned the cub up. Milo even took his turn to clean the new cub. All the cubs have passed their first vet check with flying colours. Dr Chris Simmonds is pleased with their development and administered the first of their vaccinations, and just like with any family pet, each cub has a microchip as a lifelong identification. Misty is proving to be an excellent mother. So, what’s next for Misty and Milo? Well, she’ll have her paws full raising the new cubs for the next 12 - 18 months. The new arrivals are as follows: Female “Zoraya”, meaning “African Princess”. Female “Nuru”, meaning “Light” (this little girl is much lighter in colour than the others.) Male “Kiros”, meaning “The King”.

Corporate Functions at Billabong Zoo Want to do something a little more wild? Hold your next corporate function at the zoo! Recently renovated boardroom in our spacious and airy offices with add-on Zoo experiences. Delicious menu options made from scratch and catering for all requirements.

Conservation through education

OPEN DAILY

9am to 5pm

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Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie 6585 1060 | Billabongzoo.com.au

So, what’s new? Single Touch Payroll From 1st July 2019, all small businesses need to use Single Touch Payroll-enabled software to report your tax and super information to the tax office. Larger employers of 20 or more commenced last year. There is a range of no-cost and low-cost Single Touch Payroll (STP) solutions available in the market. These solutions will best suit micro employers (with one to four employees) who need to report through STP, but do not currently have payroll software. What’s changing? • You may not need to provide payment summaries to your employees at the end of financial year when you report through Single Touch Payroll. • Your employees will be able to see their year-to-date tax and super information through myGov. • In the future, Single Touch Payroll information will be used to prefill your activity statement. Whether you are employed or self-employed, there is always room for improvement, and even minor changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. You need to “plant that seed” if you want to grow. We have a range of packages of services that can be tailored suit your needs for both business and personal clients. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

East Coast Cabinets Wow! As I write this, the first quarter of the year is just about over and Easter and ANZAC Day are fast approaching. Fortunately, the NSW State and Federal Elections are not that far away, ending a lot of uncertainty for both businesses and individuals. Thank you to our wonderful customers for supporting us to date this year. We trust that you are making the most of your new or modified cabinetwork, and that your life is much more enjoyable. In the last two weeks we have put on a new apprentice. He is young and very keen to learn and do his utmost to be a good tradesman. Hopefully for all of us, he will follow through on his potential. More and more people are looking at our improved website, which is heartening. The number of photos displayed is increasing, and new ones are being added as they become available. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact us.

The Creative Toy Shop As a qualified teacher and home school educator, I worked on a full-time basis for six years looking after and educating four awesome boys, including Freddie Fantastic, who has Down Syndrome. It was my search to find educational toys for all abilities that led me to start my blog and ultimately this shop. I just couldnâ€™t source all the toys and tools I needed in one place. In my hunt for toys that developed fine and gross motor skills, I discovered Coko Educational Bricks and Building Pebble Sets. In my search to find tools that would help Freddie, a reluctant writer, I stumbled upon Magnatabs and Write and Wipe letters and numbers. I never tried to give Freddie Fantastic different toys than his brothers. Instead, I wanted to

find toys that suited Freddie AND his brothers. Toys that sparked his imagination and allowed the siblings to play together or alongside each other worked best in this household. Naturally, every day was different, but what I found over the years of caring and educating these wonderful kids were the toys and activities that worked for all abilities. In establishing the Creative Toy Shop, my aim was to give parents and carers a one stop toy shop - a place where they could source all the educational and creative toys they needed to help their childâ€™s development. And most importantly, a shop they could trust, as all the toys and resources have been chosen after years of research and tested by kids of all abilities.

Toys For All Abilities

Address: 9/48 Industrial Drive, Boambee, NSW 2450 Email us: hello@thecreativetoyshop.com.au Ph: 0423 388 978

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focusinterview.

ETC was established in 1989 by a group of astute Coffs Harbour business people who wanted to do something about the region’s high unemployment. 30 years on, and the company employs 300 staff across 35 offices located between Forster-Tuncurry and the Gold Coast. FOCUS had a chat with CEO Jenny Barnett ...

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My husband, Dean and I and our three children moved to Nambucca in 1994, because we wanted to raise our family in a more relaxed, coastal environment. I have been with ETC for 15 years. I started as an Employment Consultant in Kempsey, moved to Branch Manager in Nambucca, then Regional Manager, Government Contracts Manager and was appointed CEO in 2015. ETC is celebrating an exciting milestone of 30 years in business. What’s the history behind ETC? ETC was established in 1989 by a group of astute Coffs Harbour business people who wanted to do something about the region’s high unemployment. ETC’s first Chairman, Mike Blewitt, tells us that Coffs Harbour was always missing out on government funding for training the unemployed, so he and ETC’s co-founders, including Cherie Treharne, John Bradshaw, Steve Little, Heather McKinnon and David Shorter, came together to discuss how they could generate new jobs, increase business skills and provide training with the assistance of government initiatives and funding. In those early years, ETC sponsored a range of labour market, work experience and selfemployment programs. The company also coordinated coastal management and Landcare projects, including contributions to the Jetty Foreshores walkway, Coffs Creek Boardwalk, the Bunker Cartoon Gallery, landscaping and fencing at Marshalls Sports Stadium and improvements to the Botanic Gardens. ETC started with one employee in the Mudbrick Huts in Coffs Harbour’s Duke Street, and today the company employs 300 staff 74 Coffs Coast focus

across 35 offices located between Forster/ Tuncurry and the Gold Coast. Although we are a much larger company now, our head office As part of our 30th birthday, remains in Coffs Harbour, we are giving away and the Mid North Coast $300,000 in the latest remains our heartland. round of the ETC What have been Community Support their potential. some of the standout Fund which is open from As CEO, I really love moments in ETC’s 18th March - 15th April. For that ETC is innovative history? more information and to and is continually There have been many, apply, visit etcltd.com.au/csf looking for ways to be but a few that come to bold and brave in our mind are: service delivery. We • ETC being the second don’t get caught up highest performing employment services in the big machinations of business, where a provider in Australia (out of 81) in 2015. decision takes six - eight weeks. We often say • Winning the Best Small Training Provider of that ETC is small enough to be agile, but large the Year Award at the NSW Training Awards in enough to make a real difference, and I find 2013 and 2016. that really exciting. • Winning the jobactive employment Business/personal goals for this financial services contract in 2015, which enabled us to year? triple in size from 12 offices to 35 and grow We are focused on ensuring ETC is best our workforce from 100 to 300 employees. placed for future employment services • Winning the Transition to Work program contracts; we will continue to be innovative across the Mid North Coast, North Coast with our training programs based on and Gold Coast - which is a youth program experiential learning and working closely with making inroads into the high rates of youth employer groups and our partners. unemployment. In terms of personal goals, we are in the • Helping more than 72,000 people find process of relocating from Nambucca to Coffs jobs, training more than 34,000 people, and Harbour, and my husband and I are really keen helping more than 39,000 people in small to discover more of the area. business. How does your business give back to the • Giving back more than $1M to worthwhile community? community groups as part of the ETC ETC is all about community. As a not-forCommunity Support Fund since 2012. profit company, we reinvest our profits back What is the most satisfying aspect of your into the company and into the communities role? in which we operate. We are very proud of When I was working on the frontline, I our ETC Community Support Fund, which gained enormous satisfaction from helping has given back more than $1M to worthwhile people build their skills, find a job and reach

community groups since 2012. Some of the local organisations/projects we have funded include: Cancer Council, MiiMi Aboriginal Corporation, Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT), Camp Quality, Coffs Harbour Community Men's Shed, The Smith Family, Tyalla Primary School, Warrina Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Service, Lifeline and Coffs Coast and Clarence Can Do Cancer Trust. As part of our 30th birthday, we are giving away $300,000 in the latest round of the ETC Community Support Fund, which is open from 18th March - 15th April. For more information and to apply, visit etcltd.com.au/csf How do you encourage a positive working environment? I am very passionate about making sure we have a positive culture at ETC. That was one of the trickiest things we had to navigate through when we tripled in size. Some things we do to foster our corporate culture include having strong corporate values (Respect, Integrity, Success and Empowerment) which guide all our decisions; our recruitment, induction and onboarding programs; reward and recognition program; professional development and consistent communication. Despite our growth, I believe the essence of who we are and the fact that we care about our staff and create environments where they can succeed is resonating throughout the entire organisation. Thanks Jenny.

t ETC’s first chairman & firs

office

30 “

rly years

B I R T H D AY

Coffs Harbour staff 1997

ETC’s head office tod

Use Gav’s images, or any of the 5 pictured here

Helping customers reach their potential

1989 - 2019 Since 1989, ETC has: • Helped more than 72,000 people find jobs • Trained more than 34,000 people • Helped more than 39,000 people in small business

e ea Training in th

The future

of training

at ETC

Image of local office staff

Coffs Coast focus 71

ETC: Supporting Communities for 30 Years!

In celebration of its 30th birthday in March, ETC IS KEEPING TRUE TO ITS COMPANY ETHOS by giving back to local communities.

TC CEO Jenny Barnett said the company was celebrating its birthday by giving away $300,000 as part of the ETC Community Support Fund and by coordinating a Corporate Volunteer Day for its staff. “It’s not really our style to throw a big party, so instead we are keeping true to our values and giving back to local communities,” Mrs Barnett said. ETC Chairperson Rod McKelvey said the next round of the ETC Community Support Fund is open from 18th March - 15th April 2019. “This year as part of ETC’s birthday celebrations, we are delighted to be in a position

76 Coffs Coast focus

to increase the funding pool to $300,000,” Mr McKelvey said. “As a not-for-profit company, ETC is committed to supporting local community groups, and we are thrilled to have been able to give back more than $1M since the ETC Community Support Fund began in 2012,” Mr McKelvey said. Mrs Barnett said ETC staff were really excited about participating in the company’s first ever Corporate Volunteer Day in March. “ETC now employs more than 300 staff across our footprint, which extends from ForsterTuncurry in the south to Coomera on the Gold Coast, many of whom are giving up their time to participate in the volunteer day,” Mrs Barnett

said. “Our staff will be involved in all sorts of projects designed to help disadvantaged members of our communities. “Our Coffs Harbour team will be assisting the local Baptist Church prepare a BBQ lunch for people in need, as well as doing our bit for Clean-Up Australia by collecting rubbish in and around Rotary Park and Fitzroy Oval.” Mrs Barnett said in other locations ETC staff were helping restore community gardens, assembling kits for the homeless, and assisting with general maintenance duties at a youth support service. ETC’s Chief Operations Officer, Damon Munt said ETC was all about improving people’s lives

through its core business of employment and training services. “Our role is to help the unemployed find meaningful work, upskill people to become more employable and help meet local employer’s recruitment needs by finding people who are the best fit for their business,” Mr Munt said. “Since 1989, ETC has helped more than 72,000 people find jobs, trained more than 34,000 people, and assisted close to 40,000 small business operators. “We would like to thank local businesses for supporting us over the past 30 years by employing our job seekers and undertaking our training courses.”

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

April 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Expect the unexpected. It is a terrific time to discover new gifts or talents. Travel opportunities are likely to manifest to dissipate some of your restlessness. Set some goals for the next three months. Turquoise is great for self-worth and focus.

Hear your own kind, loving words and just be patient with yourself. It is time for you now, as your focus has been on everyone else. Simply love yourself enough to know you deserve GREAT things. Rose Quartz connects us to self-loving nurturing.

Now is a good time to connect with your sense of purpose. Your sensitivity is on the increase, so don’t allow yourself to live unnecessary stress - especially if it belongs to others. In times of turmoil, simply focus on your qualities you like. Turquoise is great for boosting our personal power.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Instead of being tempted to run, use that restless energy productively. Set some new goals or intentions and be your beautiful free spirit again. You have worried about trivialities; it’s time to change these patterns. Turquoise is great for self-worth and focus.

You are a natural nurturer and home-life is such an important aspect of your life, so enjoy some tranquil feelings of justice and loving balance of your heart. Keep your mind occupied with productive thoughts to maintain balance. Clear Quartz is a natural amplifier; carry some.

The only reason you are feeling suspended at this time is because there has been some undigested emotions playing with you and although you want change to happen, your higher self does not want these influences as part of the future. Clear them with healing and get ready for change. Malachite brings past hurts to the surface for releasing.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Avoid unnecessary stress; things will appear calmer soon. You may have needed to be unsupported to find your own inner strength. Justice will deliver new opportunities and new friends. Turquoise helps our self-worth and selfesteem.

Connecting through your loving heart to the Angelic realm will bring peace, tranquility and purpose into reality. Try spending some time stilling your mind, and communicate with your loving guides. Amethyst connects us to our wise higher energies.

This next few months should bring productive change into play. Set some new intentions and goals, and then get out of your own way to allow things to happen. Avoid micro managing situations, as there is vulnerability around being too controlling. Blue Lace Agate is a powerful mind clearing crystal.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Avoid buying into future related fears. Complete contentment can be experienced in matters of the heart, and conflict will lose its impact in your reality. Shield your energy from other people’s negativity by imagining yourself inside a bubble. Selenite shatters negative energy and charges the aura with bright, positive energy.

If you’re feeling unsupported, try finding within what you are hoping to feel from another person, and wake up that emotion by breathing it through every cell consciously. Be as independent emotionally as possible and be grateful to yourself. Rose Quartz helps connect us to our selflove.

You are a wise person; this is why others offload to you. Hearing your wise words and acknowledging them will also help you grow. When others are drawing on your strength to overcome challenges, imagine yourself inside a bubble. This will be a win/ win. Rose Quartz initiates self-reward.

Coffs Coast focus 77

focusinterview.

Tylah DIE SE L ME C HAN IC Tylah Semenikow is an apprentice diesel mechanic, the ﬁrst female mechanic in her workplace. HERE SHE TELLS US WHAT SHE LOVES ABOUT HER TRADE AND WHY MORE FEMALES SHOULD FOLLOW THEIR HEART if a trade like this is something they want to do.

ey Tylah. What’s your relationship with the Coffs Coast? Coffs Harbour has been my home since 2003, when my family and I moved up from Sydney. I was three years old, so I’ve spent most of my life here. You have recently taken on a trade that is often overlooked by other women, a diesel mechanic. What first sparked your interest in mechanics? My dad has always been a role model of mine, and he has been working with trucks as a driver since he was young. I wanted to experience why he loved it so much, and now I understand. The power in trucks is fascinating, and driving and fixing them is something I’ll always love. When did you decide to make a career out of this interest? After my first three months in the wash bay at Lindsay Transport, I asked one of the people in charge if I could have a trial to see if being a mechanic might be something I would be interested in. After my two week trial, I had my heart set on being a truck mechanic, and from then it was just having to wait my turn. Lindsay Transport was kind enough to let me start early, so I started in the workshop in December. You are the first female diesel mechanic to work at your company; why do you think this industry is so male orientated?

78 Coffs Coast focus

I feel as though a lot of women in society have grown up to believe that male dominated trades are only for men, and that’s just not true. I want to show women that they shouldn’t have to worry about what society thinks, and we can do as we please - because we are all equal. How have other employees reacted to having a woman as part of their team? At first they were hesitant about me being in the workshop, but still supported me, because they believe I deserve a chance just like anyone else. After only three months, the boys have become like family. They have taught me so much already and are all so helpful and patient, which I can’t thank them enough for.

super supportive and always so helpful, and my coworkers keep my days interesting and fun. But, you can never forget to support yourself too! Whenever I have a tough day, it’s easy to feel like I’ve got a long way to go, but I have to remind myself to look at all the stuff I’ve accomplished. Three months ago I had no idea what was on an axle, and now I can name every object attached and what it does. I WANT TO SHOW

WOMEN THAT THEY SHOULDN’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WHAT SOCIETY THINKS, AND WE CAN DO AS WE PLEASE - BECAUSE WE ARE ALL EQUAL.

What advice would you give other women thinking of getting into a trade like yours? I would tell them to go for it! At first people might be sceptical, but you just show them that you are here to work and learn, because in the long run you will look back and be so glad you have your trade - and you’ll always have it. What has the support been like? It has been amazing; my friends and family have been

What have been some of your favourite parts of the job so far, and why? The new things I learn. I come to work each day wondering what new thing I’m going to learn today, and that really keeps me going and excited to start work, and to leave work each day with new knowledge gives me so much gratification.

What have you learnt about yourself since starting out? I have learnt that no matter how many people I tell I’m a diesel mechanic, I will always love the reaction I get! It is definitely a huge perk of the job! But I have to say I have become a lot stronger as a person, both physically and mentally since starting out. Thanks Tylah.

focusinterview.

THE BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK

The Business Women’s Network has a new committee, FRESH ENERGY AND A NEW AGENDA! FOCUS CHATTED WITH CATH FOWLER, ACTING PRESIDENT of BWN ...

ath, can you please introduce us to your new 2019 committee and explain what they bring to their roles? We’ve got lots of fresh faces on the BWN committee this year - a mix of women who work in larger businesses, as well as self-employed business owners. Our President Meagan Flannigan, from St.George Bank, is on a leave of absence, so I’ve stepped in as Acting President. I moved from Sydney in 2017 with my husband (who grew up in Sawtell) and our two young daughters. I started my own digital marketing and copywriting business, Cath Fowler Marketing. I’ve taken the lead with our social media and am going to get stuck in to a website refresh soon too. Cass Wilson is our Co-Vice President. When she was new to the area, the BWN was a big part in making friends and relationships, so now she is excited to welcome new faces and return the favour. She’s our resident people leader and will take the lead this year on the BWN, offering mentoring opportunities. Kerry Farmer comes from an accounting background and is our Treasurer. She runs her own business as the Director of Insurance House 360 Coffs Coast. Kerstin Thode is the principal solicitor and owner of Smart Choice Law. She’s taken on the role of Secretary and is passionate about connecting and working with women. Sabina Ramana is a Chartered

Accountant and works in the tax division at Crowe Horwath. She joins us as our Compliance Officer. Laura Humphrey has recently moved to the area to take up a position in the executive leadership team for the local disability service provider Coffs Harbour Support Services. She’s a whiz at all things systems, processes and communications, so we were excited to have her come on board as our project and events coordinator. Sharon Pelt rounds out our committee and holds a position as office manager at Advanced Technology, which she co-owns together with husband Mark and their best friends, Tom and Bridget. How often will the BWN network get togethers be happening, and will they be breakfast only events? There are lots of great networking events in the area now, so we’re holding our larger events bi-monthly, making the get together and speakers of the highest quality. Casual coffee catch ups will happen in the other months, to allow more opportunities to network. We know that breakfast can be a tricky time, so we will have evening, lunch and breakfast events this year, giving lots of opportunities for everyone to get along to an event. What can we expect to see this year with the BWN? What can our local business women expect to take away from each event? It’s all about bringing in great speakers that help to support women’s professional growth and empower all of us to reach

our full potential. We’re looking to try out some new venues and throw in a few fun activities too. While women can expect to come along and learn something to take way and implement in their organisation or business, the biggest benefit is often the relationships formed. After the success of your first event this year, what have you got planned with the next event in April? We were so pleased with the attendance at our February breakfast. It was our highest number of attendees for some years. I’m really proud of the committee for that. For April, the theme is “succeeding in business is all about making connections”. It will be held at the newly refurbished lounge area at the Plantation Hotel from 6pm - 7:30pm on Thursday 4th April 2019. I am excited to be joined on a panel discussion with Joanne Vines from One Agency Coffs Harbour and FOCUS’ very own Sam Dawson. Joanne has been selling homes on the Coffs Coast for 20 years, 10 years as the business owner, CEO, GM, Licensee, Principal of One Agency Coffs Harbour. Sam’s role at FOCUS, as well as being a wedding celebrant at Married by Sam, made her the perfect choice to talk about the power of great relationships. This panel will go for around 15 minutes, so there will be plenty of chance to mingle and meet new people afterwards. Thanks Cath. Coffs Coast focus 79

Pat Conaghan FEDERAL CANDIDATE FOR COWPER

Hi, I’m Pat Conaghan, your Federal Nationals Candidate for Cowper. I love our region and that’s why I’ve chosen to raise my family here. I’m determined to fight against Labor’s unfair retiree tax and work to create the jobs of the future, through projects like building the Coffs Harbour Bypass.

Pat Conaghan CANDIDATE FOR COWPER

Pat with his wife and family

Meet Pat Conaghan 1

Father of two, Pat and his wife Ilona have chosen to live and raise their family on the beautiful Mid-North Coast to make sure their kids get the

kind of upbringing only the regions can provide.

2 3

Born and raised in Kempsey, Pat’s family still live in the town and across the Hastings.

Pat has dedicated his life to helping people in our community spending 12 years as a cop before becoming a respected local lawyer. Over many years, Pat contributed much of his time pro-bono to women’s shelters, youth groups and community legal centres.

Alongside this, Pat has run his small business for over a decade and has a deep understanding of what it means to hire locals and what

havoc the increased taxes under a Labor government had on our local industries and jobs.

Contact Pat 80 Coffs Coast focus

cowper@nswnationals.org.au

1800 290 668

www.patconaghan.com.au

84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Authorised by P Conaghan, National Party of Australian – NSW, 84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Fighting for our fair share

Fighting for you

Building the Coffs Bypass

A lawyer and former police officer, Pat doesn’t back away from a challenge and will use his years of experience to make sure Cowper gets its fair share of funding and investment.

The Nationals are building the Coffs Harbour Bypass and Pat is determined to make sure the community gets the tunnels it deserves, to better connect our region.

Protecting retirees Pat is fiercely opposed to Labor’s unfair raid on retirement savings, which will cost close to a million people an average of $2200 every year. You’ve worked hard and deserve to enjoy your retirement, and Pat is determined to protect your way of life.

Building on success

Creating jobs

Pat wants to see the fantastic investment in our electorate continue including the major upgrades of the Pacific Highway and almost $25 million to upgrade the Coffs campus of Southern Cross University.

As part of a team committed to delivering 1.25 million new jobs for Australia, Pat will work to cut red tape so businesses across the Cowper electorate can flourish and build tomorrow’s employment opportunities.

Authorised by P Conaghan, National Party of Australian – NSW, 84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Coffs Coast focus 81

Hibbards When you really look at it, itâ€™s easy to wonder how a family business can survive through ups and downs in the economy over 50 years ...

82 Coffs Coast focus

focusAbode.

the Generational

change

he personalities, the trials and tribulations of individuals within any normal family can effect the family dynamic and the business itself. "When the goal of the business runs through your veins, when it’s actually bred into you, then it becomes easy. Not to say that we don’t experience challenges - of course we do. But we can move through them, because we focus on solutions, and because we have such a strong belief in what our family business strives for” Jon Hibbard. We believe that every Australian deserves to own their own home. It’s the Great Australian Dream! Providing affordable quality family homes

Bruce Hibbard took over the family business from his father, Malcom Hibbard, in 1974. And now Bruce’s

of exceptional value to fullfil determination to keep the great Australian dream up with the older (and of home ownership is the considerably larger) sons, Michael and goal set in stone and running workers and would do Jon Hibbard, are through the veins of the Hibso by working before taking Hibbards to bards family and will continue and after hours, and the next level ... for many generations. through his breaks. In 1966, at 14 years of As he grew up, his age, Bruce Hibbard left skills developed and school and started in the building industry workhe became successfully qualified in all aspects of ing with his father. With no common convebuilding, from digging the footings, laying founniences of today, such as telephones, computers dations, erecting frames, mixing cement by hand or even sewage systems, he was thrown in to and painting walls, becoming a licensed builder assisting his dad on site as a labourer. himself in 1976 and moving over to a little town Beginning at the very bottom, Bruce had the near Dubbo.

Through sheer determination, persistence and a strong work ethic, Bruce has developed a successful company with a vision of creating homes for families, owners and investors alike in 11 country regions throughout New South Wales. Bruce’s sons, Josh, Jon and Michael, have been brought up in the family business. Michael and Jon, in loving memory of Josh, are continuing the legacy with their major roles within Hibbards - their mindset firmly on the company’s goal of being the largest most secure and successful developer of speculative housing in NSW, and they have established a strong structure within the business required to reach that.

Coffs Coast focus 83

focus focusAbode focusAbode. .

Jon Hibbard

a purpose Driven Life The Hibbard family is no stranger to challenges in life. How we deal with it is to flood our lives with more livingness. “Each day I listen to a motivational speaker named Ed Mylett, who is a very successful business man and entrepreneur. And in the spirit of Ed Mylett, I want to ask you, "What are you doing here? Not literally what are you doing here, wherever you are right now reading this, but why do you think you were put here? Why do you think you were put here in this world?“ Jon Hibbard. Whatever it is that you are doing, you must look at it with purpose. No matter what it is you do, this is a part of who you are becoming; this is the chance to have the battle of your life - to

84 Coffs Coast focus

From the age of 15 when he started, Jon completed his carpentry apprenticeship; continued building houses on the job site; joined the oﬃce to become head estimator; then grew into project management, becoming construction manager, and now

make your life GREAT. How many people can of furniture, where say that that is how they you’re designed, built at the age of 41 runs the view their current work and then finished. You whole construction team environment? are forever in the state and is CEO. “I feel so blessed that of becoming. The main I can work in a company principle of existence like that - a company that is to survive, and when has been developed this you understand this, way, thanks to my father. you can truly look at yourself and notice how well And a company that will continue to strive for are you surviving. its employees to live their lives with purpose as “To survive well in the here and now, I worked well.” - Mike Hibbard. out that I had to get rid of all my confusion about Growth is survival. And the primary principle life. So, I started educating myself; I asked a lot of existence is to survive. If you’re not growing, then you’re diminishing. You’re not like a piece of questions of a lot of successful people. I made

sure I was in close proximity to greatness.” - Jon Hibbard. We say to the awesome people we get to work with every day to never become complacent in life, because when you’re not striving forward and putting yourself at some point outside your comfort zone, then you’re just existing, or you're just slowly dying. We read a lot of books on self-motivation and books on the mind, particularly from motivators and business entrepreneurs such as Ed Mylett and Grant Cardone. “I always take into account that we spend 70% of our lives in the workplace. Every day

focusAbode.

we spend more time working and not with our children or loved ones. I’ve learnt a lot about group dynamics and people. And as General Manager, it’s extremely important that the morale is high in the business. I oversee this establishment and all personnel and staff, and I strive to make sure that people are getting along together and working well together within our company.” - Mike Hibbard. “I’m very blessed, because I’m in close proximity to my hero, which is my father. I’m so grateful that we get to share such great things spiritually almost every day.” - Jon Hibbard. As brothers we challenge each other, get each other to do things outside comfort zones, and keep each other accountable. We also have amazing wives who inspire us to be better men. How many people do you have in your life that impact you this way? How many people do you hang around that challenge you on many different levels to be better? Who you spend your time with impacts your life in extreme ways. If you’re not living life to your full potential, what’s your excuse? Either quit that job you hate, or start to learn to love it again. If you’re just comfortable in your relationship, you can make it better and get the passion back. There’s no reason not to put action into things.

Communication fixes many things on many levels. You need to rise up; you need to LIVE, don’t exist, don’t drift, don’t Joshy Yasi let complacency set in. Being ethical and bringing the spiritual side of yourself into your life and into your business/career/ or workplace is what separates the successful people from the quitters. After high school, Mike The Hibbard family believes you completed his carpentry must serve something bigger than apprenticeship, went straight into yourself. the business and started sales; Our family is honoured to be a worked in sales and marketing; part of so many lives, not just in left Coffs and ran part of the our workplace, but to be able to operations in Port Macquarie, give opportunity for individuals and Tamworth and Dubbo; came families within the communities back to Coffs Harbour that we do business, to be able four years ago and is now to obtain their dream of home the General Manager of ownership. , the whole establishment Joshua Hibbard and Yasmin and colaborates with Tamzin in Hibbard Forever in Our Hearts. Promotion and Marketing. Joshy taught us to never take life for granted. Yasi’s eyes were the mirror to her soul; if you looked into them, you could see how beautiful and how powerful her spirit was. She couldn’t talk, but her eyes would communicate to you in so many ways.

mike Hibbard

Coffs Coast focus 85

focusAbode.

an incredible

life

Thi n k Hibbards

In loving memory of Malcom Sydney Hibbard 1923 ~ 2016

An abridged excerpt from Malcom Hibbard’s autobiography. Born 30th January 1923 in Murwillumbah. Fourth child to Sydney and Lillian Hibbard and named Malcolm Sydney Hibbard. I do not remember much about my very early childhood, but before the start of the Great Depression, life was hard, but it was much simpler. Milk was threepence (2 cents) a pint and a tin billycan would be on each home's front door step with the money. There were no rotary clothes lines, rotary lawn mowers, automatic record-players (only wind up ones), and you had to be very rich to own a vehicle. The washing machine was a very new invention and no one I knew had one. Very few homes had the sewer connected so the toilet was outside and each week the sanitary man would come and pick up a full bucket and leave

The Depression hit hard.

an empty one. No toilet had grown to five children, People were buying groceries paper, just hunks of old four boys and a girl. on account, but their account newspapers. Our shop was outside a had no money. Dad and My dad had been to tram stop and at the age Mum were struggling, war. He told me that of five, I used to see boys and ﬁnally the bank many of the men on the jumping on and off the fore-closed and we were battlefields of France, moving trams. These trams evicted. We had nowhere to go. besides being wounded, had a running board either I was about eight at the time. suffered horrendous side and the conductor mental breakdowns. used to walk up and down He told us that in these platforms selling tram the trenches he was tickets. Jumping on and off so terrified. The scream of the shells and the the trams was a game that the children played machine gun bullets were so loud that he and to avoid having to pay the fare. thought his ears would burst, his mind felt it Being five, I had no idea of the skill needed to would burst out of his head and that he would do this, but it looked easy. One day I ran out of go mad. the shop and waited for the next tram. When it Dad was discharged from the Army and pulled up I jumped on the opposite side to the bought a shop with inheritance money. By the tram guard and stood hanging onto the railing. time the Depression hit the country, our family Off went the tram. I thought I was really grown

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up. As it started to slow down for the next stop, I just stepped off rolled along the ground. I had my eyes shut tight, while there was a squeal of breaks. I opened my eyes and looked up, I was lying underneath a car. It was a miracle. I didn’t even have a scratch or torn clothing, so I didn’t have to tell my parents what had happened which was good because I knew that I would have been punished. I never tried it again. The Depression hit hard. People were buying groceries on account but their account had no money. Dad and Mum were struggling and finally the bank fore-closed and we were evicted. We had nowhere to go. I was about eight at the time. We moved constantly, and our schooling was very fragmented. Eventually we went to a place where there were a lot of tents beside a freshwater creek. Dad paced out sections and put down straightened tree branches. We collected

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COFFS HARBOUR Shane Hessenberger

0405 313 272 Proud suppliers to Hibbard Homes for more than 5 years! Showroom: 39 Uralla Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 E: info@windowsanddoors.build P: 02 6581 0908

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Coffsharbour@harcourts.com.au www.coffsharbour.harcourts.com.au Suite 1–15 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour 02 6600 1688

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We scavenged at the local industrial tip for building materials. We found canvas

cow pats (manure) and brought them back. We carried water from the creek in forty-four-gallon drums. The cow pats and water were mixed in the drums to make a sort of cement. It was sloppy and smelly, and it was poured between the tree branches about five centimeters thick. The cement manure floor was supposed to stop the rain from running through the tent and rising through the floor, that was the theory anyhow. We scavenged at the local industrial tip for building materials. We found canvas off cuts and some old linoleum. Dad had an old singer sewing machine and he sewed the canvas together and

oﬀ cuts and some old constructed a tent. With state. That was the last linoleum. Dad had an old the rest of the canvas, he move of my childhood. singer sewing machine sewed us boy’s trousers I had to repeat classes and he sewed the canvas and shorts, as we only had due to being out all the together and constructed a tent. one set of school clothes time working to help earn and one set for Sunday money for the family. best. Sometimes, when it I was a good salesman rained, we had to wear and always sold these canvas trousers to everything and mother school, and we got a lot of teasing resulting in would be waiting for me to give her the proceeds quite a few fights behind the boy’s toilets. of my sales, so we could buy essentials. My parents moved into an old two-storey brick I went to high school for a year and then building in Granville, Sydney. It was in a decrepit had to leave to get a full-time job, working at

Homebush abattoirs as a gut runner. On the 3rd of September 1939, World War Two broke out. My father brought the family together and told us that he did not want us to experience the war like he did. Three of us ended up enlisting. When I was eighteen, I put up my age as twenty-one and enlisted on 21st December, 1941, just after the Pearl Harbour attack by the Japanese and America entered the war. There I grew up quickly, mentally and physically. When I was discharged from the army in 1945,

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an incredible I was given the opportunity to do a course to graduate into a trade. The economy was very grim. Everything was rationed, and coupon books were issued, and they would run out. The black market was rampant, if you paid the price you could get anything. I struggled to survive on the basic wage of four pounds ($8.00). I commenced my trade as a qualified bricklayer, it was a three-year course. In every practical test I topped the class, but struggled with the technical side, but my instructor, knowing I was a top student, practically walked me through the technical exams and I passed. After my apprenticeship, I joined another bricklayer in a partnership and went contract bricklaying. Our price was nine pounds a thousand ($18.00) and the price of the bricks was the same. The builder supplied the bricks and

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mortar and we laid the bricks. Materials were in short supply and sometimes the jobs would have to stop until the next ration came. We were good tradesmen and very fast. The Saturday ritual included the R.S.L in the early afternoon, drinking beer and playing darts. I would have a Chinese meal and play poker till about 9pm and then take off to the dance floor. One day, as I walked through the door of the dance hall I heard a women’s voice singing with the orchestra. I went and waited at the bottom of the stairs that led from the stage. As she came down, I greeted her and asked her if she would like to dance. Our steps fitted perfectly, and we have been dancing together since that night for well over fifty years, my wife Helen. Mother, grandmother and now great mother. One Monday morning, my business partner and I went to the nearest hotel for lunch. He ordered the beers while I got some sandwiches.

life

By the time I got back he’d drunk his two beers and told me to hurry up so we could order a couple more. As I reached out my hand to pick up the glass, I heard a voice speaking clearly in my ears, “You don’t need that”. It was so strong, that I turned to see who was speaking. I looked at the glass again and leaned forward. Again came the voice, "You don’t need that”. My partner asked me what the matter was. I shook my head, passed the beers to him and ordered a lemonade. He was astounded, because he knew of my capacity for alcohol. I drank the lemonade, he drank my beers and we returned to the worksite. Monday to Friday I would stay at the R.S.L 'til six-thirty. Helen bathed the children, put them to bed and when I arrived home, we had dinner

together. I worked hard and made good money and it was my excuse that I deserved to relax every night with a beer, but I did not realise how dependent I was on alcohol. On this Monday, however, I walked in the door at 4:30pm. Helen couldn’t believe it when she heard the truck pull up and immediately thought I was sick, or I’d had an accident. And for the first time in my marriage of nearly five years, I helped her with the children and the dinner. That week I arrived home early every night and every night possible from then on. Malcom furthered his career choice by getting his builders license toward the end of 1967. Winning his first building contract in Narromine in 1968. Bruce Hibbard was 16 years old.

ttough imes are

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for any homebuyer in the current market. But people are still able to buy.

Thi n k Hibbards Economists say that $1 today is worth more than $1 tomorrow. (It’s called the present-day Time Value of Money theory … Google it.) Think about it; 10 years ago a Big Mac cost around $3. Today, a Big Mac is more like $6. So 10 years ago, your $1 bought you 1/3 of a Big Mac, whereas today your $1 buys you 1/6 of a Big Mac … Get the point? What about buying a house? Time goes on, as all things do, inflation and all that sort of fun stuff means that houses just get more and more expensive. Land values go up, the cost of building material goes up and so on. In the case of the Big Mac example, property prices 10 years ago were less than they are today.

You become your own

So if that isn’t enough that’s what you’re into. landlord. No more to convince you, let’s You can do what you like worrying about look at the top three reabecause you own the being able to get sons why you should buy place. that pet Labrador a house today: 2. If you build or buy or whether you're 1. You become your a new house and you’re allowed to hang a picture. own landlord a first home buyer, the No more worrying Government is going to about being able to get chip in $10,000. that pet Labrador, or Yes, you read correctly; whether you’re allowed to hang a picture, or if you buy or build a new home, and you’re a worrying if your lease is going to be renewed. first home buyer, you (will likely) qualify for the You become the boss - the landlord of your first Home Owners Grant. It means that the own manor. You can hang as many pictures Govt. is going to give you $10,000 towards wherever you want - paint the walls pink if the deposit.

3. Instead of making rent payments, you’re making savings deposits. How, you ask? Well, that’s easy. Every time you make a rent payment, it’s likely you’re paying off someone else’s mortgage. When you buy a home, you’re paying your own mortgage. Each time you make a mortgage payment, you owe less than you did the last time you made a payment, because well, you’re paying it off. AND In the meantime, the home you are paying off is probably going up in value. So really, it’s very much like a savings account. The choice is whether you’re paying into someone else’s savings account or your own.

Hibbard Homes

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first, next

invest

Whether you’re a ﬁrst home buyer, a next home buyer or an investor, we are building homes right now. Hibbards has been helping Australians purchase new homes since 1968. If you’ve already got savings, you’ve sold something, you’re on our save2buy program, or Mum and Dad have chipped in, you could be in your own home sooner than you thought possible. Regional areas are becoming more and more sought after, with city prices and lifestyle becoming less and less desirable. Hibbards are building right now in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Taree, Orange, Bathurst, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Tamworth, Armidale, Dubbo and Mudgee. The modern day marriage is a mortgage. More first home buyers are putting buying a home as a higher priority than getting married or having kids. And the main way that they are able to do this, is with the bank of mum and dad.

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Mums and dads actually place in the top 10 mortgage lenders in Australia - and the number and amount of finance help given by mums and dads (or grandparents) is continually growing. But how much do you actually need? The stats are, around 55% of first home buyers are getting financial assistance from their parents. With as little as $30,000, the family are seeing that their kids are well on their way to being in their own home. To find out what it is that you actually need, it’s all very dependent on your financial situation - why is that? Well, because it depends on your current debt, if you have kids, your regular employment and income, plus a whole range of things. If you do have the option of going down this path with your parents (and there are various

different ways that they may be able to help) what Hibbards do is check all that out for you and then let you know what you may be able to do, how much you’ll need and then you decide whether you want to go ahead and start working towards that. Transitioning from renter to home buyer. Imagine being able to nail a hook into the wall without having to ask for permission from your landlord (or having to cover it up if you’ve “forgotten” to ask for permission). That’s just one small thing you’re going to LOVE about owning your own home. Moving from renting to owning a house is one of the greatest leaps Australians will make in their lives, but it becomes a huge leap and the fear of

the unknown can be too much for some. Finding your way as a first home buyer is an exciting but sometimes daunting process (and even if you’re not a first home buyer - it’s still a process that makes anyone wary). But what if you were already in the position to buy your own home? Imagine if you’ve been renting for the last five years (or even the last one or two years) when in all that time you could have purchased your own place? OR, what if you were not very far off from being in a position? Hibbards will give you a no obligation assessment to see where you’re at. We’ve helped thousands of home buyers. Don’t waste another moment not knowing. Enquire today.

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things to

know

that help our future home buyers realise their dream of home ownership 1. Those daily coffees you get, they are costing potential home buyers nearly $2,000 a year! And if you think about all your purchasing; if you mindlessly waste $28 a day (on excess food, online purchases, silly little buys) that equates to more than $10,000 in just one year. THAT could be the money that gets you into your own home, or the money to pay it off faster. 2. Asking how much a home is to repay means nothing when it comes to being able to buy a home. What matters is your affordability - and THAT is assessed by the banks/lenders based on THEIR rules and criteria. 3. The online calculators that try and estimate what you could borrow can be inaccurate. They don’t take in your whole situation. Your individual situation needs to be looked at. 4. Hibbards don’t do the finance for your mortgage. It is all through lenders/financial institutions. But we hold your hand through the whole process (unless of course you’re totally fine to do it yourself). 5. Hibbards do not do “rent to buy”. When you work with Hibbards, you are working towards having that house as your own, with your own mortgage. 6. Getting into the market sooner rather than later could give you a major advantage. If you already have the affordability, waiting to purchase so you can save more of a deposit could see you waste THOUSANDS of dollars unnecessarily.

7. First Home Buyers get a major advantage to be able to get into the market. With the Government grant available and the stamp duty concession, more first home buyers are having success on our Save2buy program. 8. The more often you apply for credit, the more marks there are on your credit history (EVEN IF YOU DON’T END UP USING THAT CREDIT). 9. Every time you click “Afterpay” “ezipay” “zipPay”or anything similar where you get your items now and pay later with installments - that can stop you from owning your own home. STOP IT. 10. Get yourself a budgeting app on your phone or device. Canstar have researched and tested the best apps available for 2018-2019. Google them. 11. You will not need to do anything to your Hibbards home except turn the key and move in. It’s all done for you. 12. Hibbards have a Service Department. Hibbards Service are dedicated to answering any questions you might have after you get the keys and move in. They will also follow up on your 3-month maintenance requests and are proactive on making sure you are settling in to your brand new home nicely. Absolutely EVERY situation is different. Inquire with Hibbards and you will get an obligation free assessment that won’t leave a mark on your credit history and you will be left knowing what you can do now and in the future. Become a homeowner.

Thi n k Hibbards

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AMB E

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RBOUR S HA CE

15 FI

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BATHROOM | INDOOR LIVING | OUTDOOR

EEN YEAR

COFFS HARBOUR 92 Coffs Coast focus

28 Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour (02) 6651 4133 www.ambertiles.com.au

Proud supplier to Hibbard Homes

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update. What is happening in the market? This is the question on everyone’s lips. Currently there is no shortage of “experts” trying predict the Australian property market outlook .

hen there are all those online Coast is still extremely affordable in comparison research reports telling you to other towns on the Eastern Coast of where to invest in the next Australia, and a significant number of buyers growth hotspot. Predicting the are still coming from out of town areas, both future property capital growth metropolitan and regional. It is imperative to is like trying to predict the weather; in fact, work with a selling agent who understands all meteorologists tend to get weather predictions aspects of marketing, as the old days of putting right more often than property commentators a sign up out the front and a picture of your do assessing the market growth. home in an office window are obsolete. Buyers Of course, the market is confusing right now. It are not looking in office windows; they are depends what media article you are reading or deciding from their lounge room if they want what news report you are listening to as to what to look at your property. And regardless of the market is doing. One the market conditions, a will show you strong home that is well present, evidence of economic marketed correctly and stability, job security and priced appropriately will population growth, and always sell. Of course, the market the next will be talking BUYING is confusing right now. about a crashing market. If you have done your It depends what media Sellers will align preparation and research, article you are reading or themselves with the the time to buy a home what news report you are strong stories in the or an investment property listening to as to what the market, and buyers will could not be more market is doing. align themselves with powerful. The Banking the weak market stories. Royal Commission has This is where we will see made it more difficult days on market push out for some buyers to as the adjustment is made by both buyers and secure a purchase. This will shift as buyers sellers as to what the new conditions look like. understand more about the new regulations SELLING and what is required of them to secure finance. House price growth around Australia has been However, until other buyers are able to make slowing in recent months, led by falling values the necessary adjustments, this gives you the in many locations; that trend looks set to opportunity to buy with less competition. Don’t continue, driven by tighter lending standards make the mistake of thinking though, that this from Australia’s banking regulator APRA. These is going to last. Our economy is strong and tighter lending conditions and the inability for unemployment is low; first home buyers are at many investors who could have in the past their strongest presence in five years. borrowed more are really having the same effect RENTING as a rise in interest rates. If you are renting, you will already know there is The impact of the tightening on lending means extremely high competition for rental properties we are experiencing a shift in the quality of in our area. As investor activity declines due the buyers we are working with. Buyers are to tightening of lending and low consumer more educated on their financial position and confidence, we will continue to see low vacancy understand their buying power. The Coffs rates and high competition for rental properties. Coffs Coast focus 93

Steve Lawrence (left) and Craig Howe (right)

SP SCREENS

SP Screens, formerly known as Mobile Security Doors, has been servicing the Coffs Coast for more than 25 years. FOCUS had a chat with Sales Representative Craig Howe, to find out more â€Ś What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs Harbour as a child in 1975, when my mum and dad took over the International Harvester Truck Dealership in Coffs Harbour.

window and door manufacturer in the world for 10 years, so I gained a lot of experience in how to screen and secure all the different types of doors and windows. Working for SP Screens (previously Mobile Security Doors) for so many years has meant that Steve and I have had the pleasure of screening and securing thousands of homes and I previously worked for the largest window and door businesses on the Coffs manufacturer in the world for Coast.

When and why did you start working at SP Screens? I bought the business from Steve in 2010; it was called Mobile Security Doors back then, and Steve 10 years, so I gained a lot of and I still work together What is the best experience in how to screen today. My wife and advice you can give and secure all the different I had been living in to a prospective types of doors and windows. Sydney for a few years customer? Take and wanted to move advantage of our back to Coffs to start obligation free a family. We now have consultation; you can two very active, happy boys who enjoy our book a convenient time online at beautiful coast. www.spscreens.com.au Can you tell us a little bit about your background and experience in this industry? I previously worked for the largest

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Iâ€™m always happy to provide free advice on the most suitable screens and blinds to suit individual requirements and budgets.

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Call today for an appointme nt 13 28 36

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SEE THE DIFFERENCE

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Pets are welcome

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We have a range of one bedroom homes available in Coffs Harbour from $229,000-$299,000* Come and see the Freedom difference for yourself. Call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au/freedom *Prices correct as of 9/1/2019. **Subject to management approval. ^This comparison is a guide only and we encourage you to compare for yourself. FRE159-CH

Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour 13 28 36 aveo.com.au/freedom 96 Coffs Coast focus

92 Taloumbi Road, Coffs Harbour