Issuu

JARROD LANGAN

August 2018. issue 95

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team From the

Welcome to the August issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

ne of the best things about living and working on the Coffs Coast is the amount of opportunities that present each month on topics for us to cover: from stories about local charities and the causes they support, local businesses and the people who work in our region, and the passionate people of all kinds who make this area a melting pot of interesting people. This month, as we do each August, we are pleased to be able to present to you our annual Men in Business feature. This feature is an opportunity for champions in business in our local area to tell their stories and share their success. As always, we encourage you to support these businesses. A big thank you to our front cover superstars: Gareth Owen from Big Garden Furniture, Barry Hockey from Barry Hockey Accountants, Luke Morris from New Breed Movement and Nutrition,

Dean Bridgman from Sawtell Kitchens Centre, Carl Bennett from Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast and of course, Marcus Phillips from Designer Living Kitchens. Also, thanks to Glenn Hall from Senki Martial Arts for allowing us to shoot in his gym. INSIDE THIS EDITION Sergeant Jarrod Langan works as a highway patrol supervisor here on the Coffs Coast, so road safety is extremely close to his heart. We spoke to him about what a day on the job is like and what we can do to keep our roads safe for all of us. Russell Shelton is the Unit Commander of Marine Rescue, a volunteer organisation that provides a vital safety service to our boating community 24/7, here on the Coffs Coast. We spoke to him about this important service. FAREWELL LACE BROWNING; WELCOME BACK SAM DAWSON! We say farewell to our wonderful advertising

consultant, Lace Browning. Good luck with your new career path! As one door closes, the other opens. We are ecstatic to have Sam Dawson back with the FOCUS team. Sam has taken over Lace’s role and is super pumped to get out and meet you all. If you see Sam around town (she’s hard to miss) be sure to say “hello”. ULTIMATE FOOD GUIDE - NEXT MONTH The Coffs Coast is buzzing when it comes to finding the perfect place to eat, drink and relax. Restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs, wineries, breweries, local produce suppliers and manufacturers, cheese, chocolate, delicatessens ... With an extensive range of businesses and services available all in the one area, this guide is destined to help you experience the different tastes of our region. FINAL SAY “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” - Walt Disney.

The A, B and C of Mercedes-Benz. Owning a new Mercedes-Benz can be as straight forward as A B C. A. Meet Lachlan, he is a Mercedes-Benz Certified Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. B. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. C. You know that you will get the right advice and friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased your new Mercedes-Benz.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration of our new A-Class, B-Class or C-Class motor vehicles today.

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

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issue inside this

Russell Shelton.

Issue 95 - August 2018

Russell Shelton is the Unit Commander of Marine Rescue, a volunteer organisation that provides a vital safety service to our boating community 24/7, here on the Coffs Coast. We spoke to him about the program, the volunteers who give their time and expertise to the organisation, what motivates him to take on this important role, and how to stay safe whilst enjoying our spectacular marine environment.

Krongsak Lek.

Regulars

Krongsak Lek grew up training in Muay Thai Boxing in his fatherâ€™s gym in Thailand. He was scouted by the age of 14 and has since had an extremely successful career in the sport, which has taken him all over the world.

14. WHATâ€™S ON AUGUST 21. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 34. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS 53. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

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4 Coffs Coast focus

Rachel Ward.

focusinterview.

JARROD LANGAN

Sergeant Jarrod Langan works as a HIGHWAY PATROL SUPERVISOR HERE ON THE COFFS COAST, SO ROAD SAFETY IS EXTREMELY CLOSE TO HIS HEART. We spoke to him about what a day on the job is like and what we can do to keep our roads safe for all of us.

i Jarrod. Tell us a little about your background here on the Coffs Coast. Well, I moved to Coffs Harbour with my family when I was 16 after finishing Year 10 at high school. I got a job pretty soon after as an apprentice mechanic and did most of my time at the old Autocare in High Street, as it was back then. We were the NRMA road service centre, so I worked all hours performing that role. Once qualified, I did a year or two more and then worked other jobs, truck driving and the like, before my parents and I started “Langans Smash Repairs” in June St. We had this business for a couple of years, before we sold it and I joined the Police Force. When and where did you first join the Police Force? What prompted you to join initially? I joined the Police Force in 1996. I went to Goulburn for six months then posted to the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney for 12 months. From there, I went to Walgett for three years. After that it’s been a bit all over the place: Sawtell, Glenreagh, Scone, Muswellbrook, Gunnedah, Tamworth, Nambucca Heads and now back to Coffs Harbour as one of the Highway Patrol Supervisors. My time in the smash repair industry meant that I had attended a number of accidents 6 Coffs Coast focus

and worked with the The decisions may be I DON’T THINK ANY local police pretty closely. as simple as how to POLICE OFFICER I found them all to be manage traffic around WOULD COPE IF really good people doing a minor motor vehicle IT WASN’T FOR A a job that came with collision, or it could STRONG BOND THAT a great responsibility, be decisions that can YOU HAVE WITH and that they were well literally mean the YOUR WORKMATES respected in the town. difference between life AND FAMILY. I suppose these two or death. factors were my driving I don’t think any force to join. Police Officer would What does “a day in cope if it wasn’t for the life” look like for yourself? a strong bond that you have with your As one of the Highway Patrol Supervisors, workmates and family. I am very lucky to have road safety and traffic management are my a very supportive family and some of the best core business. In Coffs Harbour we have mates a man could ask for. Not to mention my 12 Constables and two Sergeants. We also wife, Angela, who puts up with my good and have a fleet of five cars, 1 RBT bus and a bad times. motorcycle. So, there is the management of What are some of the hardest challenges these resources, working closely with Roads about your role, and how do you & Maritime Services (RMS), local Councils and overcome them? other organisations to reduce road trauma. In my job you get to see the very best in There is a lot of intelligence gathering, people and unfortunately the very worst. As a rostering and meetings. After all that is done, I Police Officer you will see and deal with things do try to get out in the car as often as I can. that no person should have to face. How do you cope with the uncertainty of Fatal and serious accidents are always hard. what your day might throw at you? Knocking on that door to tell someone that For me, the uncertainty of what we do is their son, daughter, mother or father have probably the most challenging part of being been killed never gets easy. It’s very emotional a Police Officer. In my role as a supervisor, but you have to hold it together, because you need to have a broad knowledge and it’s your job. Loved ones need support, be able to make decisions quickly at times. compassion and information. Generally you

life AY IN THE AD

are the one that has to be able to do that. Then on the other side is the welfare of your staff. They too will need support, because it can be just as distressing for them. Helping officers maintain their mental health through internal and external support mechanisms is always challenging, so having that “looking out for your mates” bond is very important after stressful incidents. What's your favourite part of the job? Knowing that what I do for a job hopefully makes a difference to people’s lives. Working hard to make the roads as safe as we can and dealing appropriately with those who put others at risk. Being in your field of work, road safety is a big issue for you. What advice would you pass on to our readers about being safer on our roads? Driving should be one of the safest daily tasks we do. But when you drink and drive, use your mobile phone, exceed the speed limit or you’re not concentrating on your driving, all of a sudden, the task of driving not only puts you, but also others, at risk of injury or death. What's one of the most common offences that could easily be avoided? Drink driving and using a mobile phone whilst driving. There are plenty more, but these two offences are intentional as a result of a bad decision and can be avoided. Thanks Jarrod.

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focusinterview.

Glenn Leet

INSPIRED TRADES BUSINESS COACHING

Glenn Leet is a stand out choice in trades business coaching, previously Director of Australia's fastest growing residential housing company, HIA Board member and Adviser to the Reserve Bank of Australia. One of Glenn's clients is Grant Cummings from Mid Coast Diverse Concreting, who says the business coaching he's received has been invaluable...

lenn and Grant, please tell us companies, now with franchisees all over the what you’re up to nowadays country. I also have a Bachelor of Business Degree on the Coffs Coast ... and have worked as an Advisor to the Reserve Sure ... Grant has Mid Coast Bank of Australia on building industry matters Diverse Concreting, which and sit on the branch committee with the HIA. So has been trading now for two I feel like I have enough knowledge about both years, and Glenn has Inspired Trades Business business and the building industry to help large Coaching, which has been helping Grant and and small trade business owners prosper. trade businesses like MCDC around the Coffs Grant, have you found Glenn has helped Coast achieve great things. your business to prosper? Ok, so what were you doing previously? I know that without Glenn’s business skills Glenn had the and his patient teaching Integrity New Homes abilities, my business would building company for 15 not be where it is today. years, but sold that three I have leaned on him for years ago. continual coaching and Some trade businesses go Grant was working as advice and have really through phases where the a concrete tradesman in appreciated his input into skills to do the work are the local area. my business. I would highly in the business, but the So Grant, how do the recommend the services legal framework around two businesses work of Inspired Trades Business licensing is not in place. together? Coaching to anyone who These might include training Glenn has been with wants to reach their full deficiencies, business start-up/ me from the start of potential in a trade business sale events or staff changes. my concreting business. and see their business Glenn has been there become profitable and to advise me in various enjoyable. situations where I lack the skills in management Glenn, when you’re coaching trade business and marketing for my business. He also has been owners, what do you focus on? able to assist me with a contractor’s licence, while Achieving optimal profit, workflow and I finalised my own qualifications. He holds me cashflow is the name of the game, so that’s accountable to the goals and outcomes that we foundational to all our coaching. Outside of that, agree on together. we try to identify where the business owner And Glenn, what qualifies you to help trades wants to take the business and then resource business owners as a business coach? their skills to achieve that outcome. The coaching I started my time in the industry as an sessions are really tailored to each business based apprentice carpenter and ended up with one of on where they’re at in their business journey. Australia’s largest and fastest growing building And what would you say are the top three

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biggest challenges for trades business owners? I definitely hear common stories in the industry, and the top three would have to be: • I’m having trouble getting good staff on board. • I’m having trouble maintaining consistent profit, cashflow and workflow. • My business has outgrown my business systems or my own ability to manage it effectively. Glenn, does anyone help you with the coaching business? Yes, I have a small team which includes Angela (my wife), who helps me with social media and marketing tasks. I also have another coach, Lindsay King, whom I collaborate with. And I maintain a close network of industry professionals like accountants, IT specialists, marketing specialists and debt recovery specialists, who all focus on servicing the building trades industry. I see you’ve helped Grant with licensing; how does that work? Some trade businesses go through phases where the skills to do the work are in the business, but the legal framework around licensing is not in place. These might include training deficiencies, business start-up/sale events or staff changes. I can assist business owners with these transitions from a licensing point of view under strict compliance criteria. Is debt recovery a big problem for trades business owners? Debt recovery is a huge issue in our industry, but fortunately there’s heaps that can be done to reduce the pain around this. We position trades businesses so that if debt recovery needs to happen (and it always does) the business is ideally

placed to do this as quickly and at the lowest cost possible, to ensure the business remains viable through the process. Ok, so what sort of trades business should think about using Inspired Trades Business Coaching? Well, firstly let me say we don’t work with everyone. We want to make sure we can add value to a business, because the last thing we want is to just be another business cost and not have a happy customer. But if we establish we can add value and the business owner is committed to continual personal and business improvement, then we do great things together. Is there any sort of guaranteed result? Yes absolutely. We offer a 100% money back guarantee that if we’re not adding value to a business, we’ll provide our services at no charge until the business sees value. Obviously, the business owner needs to commit to their part of the process if this guarantee is to be honoured. Ok guys, thank you for talking to FOCUS. Any final words? Sure, great trade businesses like Mid Coast Diverse Concreting are not just achieved by doing great trade work. They’re a result of a business owner who’s committed to business development and then delivering great outcomes to his customers. If you’re doing great trade work and wanting to know how you can take your business to the next level, let's have a no obligation chat and see what can be done. Thanks Glenn and Grant. Mid Coast Diverse Concreting 0421 973 064. Inspired Trades Business Coaching 0428 536 021.

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focusinterview.

AIME Isabel Pavlich-Miles

AIME is a mentoring program designed to bridge the gap between Indigenous high school students and universities, bringing students on to campus to experience program days that help them develop new skills and increase their confidence within the uni environment, and also sending mentors out to schools for weekly tutoring and relationship building.

e spoke to Isabel Pavlich-Miles, the AIME Program Manager at Southern Cross University Coffs Harbour Campus, all about the program and the influence it’s had on local youth since it began in 2005. Hi Isabel. Could you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I grew up in the hinterland of the Coffs Coast, where my dad and his family lived most of their lives. As a teenager I went to Orara High, before leaving Coffs at 18 for stints living in Brisbane, Sydney and Alice Springs. Last year I made the move back, and I'm loving exploring the region as an adult. What is your role at Southern Cross University and with AIME? I’m the AIME Program Manager for the Southern Cross University Coffs Harbour campus. Tell us about AIME and what the organisation is all about. AIME is a mentoring program with the vision to end inequality through education by building bridges between universities and high schools. The AIME mentoring bridge consists of two separate lanes; the first lane has buses of local high school students (mentees) travelling to the university campus to attend AIME program days; and the second lane has car loads of volunteers (mentors) driving out to the local high schools to deliver weekly Tutor Squads for the students. 10 Coffs Coast focus

Every day that I am with AIME,

At the AIME program days, the mentees are met on campus by the mentors, who then support the mentees to unlock their potential. These program days expose the mentees to powerful role models, who share stories of adversity, resilience and individual growth, inspiring the students to rise up out of the challenges of life and remain strong within themselves. The mentors also support the mentees to move through specifically designed activities designed to create growth mindsets and to give them opportunities to step out of their comfort zones and challenge themselves, whilst developing new skills and confidence. Through the support of their mentors, mentees are encouraged to understand their value, worth, capability and potential. Mentees are able to witness others believe in them, and for some this may be the first time they’ve experienced this kind of support. In addition to the program days, we also deliver tutoring at the schools. These tutor squads support the mentees academically and further strengthen the bonds between mentees and mentors. When mentors turn up each and every week, it embeds the mentees' belief that people believe in them. The AIME program opens the minds of local Indigenous students to truly see their potential. We create an environment that enables young people to shift their psychological framework to view their identity as a reason for success, rather than an excuse for failure. And by being based on university campuses, mentees become

I have the honour of watching the displays of strength, resilience and power that Indigenous young people are capable

comfortable within the that ANYONE can be university environment and involved. You don’t understand that it is not have to be Indigenous, of when they feel that others an unobtainable or foreign you don’t have to be believe in them. pathway. academic, all you need What are some things is heart and a passion that AIME has achieved to end Indigenous so far? inequality and support AIME began in 2005, young people to fight for initially working with 25 Indigenous high school their dreams and aspirations. students in Sydney. This number has now grown There are a number of flexible options to over 10,000 students, and last year alone for being involved with AIME. For anyone we had 6,007 students engaged with AIME, interested, contact me on 0459 999 190 or at 324 partner schools and delivered the program ipm@aimementoring.com from 36 different university campuses. We also What are some of the highlights of your had 1,671 mentors volunteer 41,204 hours time with AIME so far? of their time, assisting 97% of the Year 12 Each and every day I experience awe inspiring students in the AIME program to obtain their moments with the young people we work with. Year 12 attainment (the non-Indigenous Year 12 I’ve witnessed students stand up in front of 120 attainment rate was 89.1%). people and share the most vulnerable, heart Additionally, the data for the Southern Cross wrenching stories, in the hope to encourage region (Coffs, Lismore, Tweed Heads), is even younger students to continue to push through greater. Last year we had a 100% attainment the hardships of life. I’ve watched as young rate for our Year 12 students and worked people who have been disconnected with with 725 students across 25 schools, with the their culture explore and learn and grow their support of 103 mentors. This year we are going individual identities and become proud of their even bigger and better and in the Coffs region heritage and break through the historical shame itself, we are now working with 11 partner that has been holding them down. Every day that I am with AIME, I have the schools from Macksville through to Grafton. honour of watching the displays of strength, Who are the mentors? How do people resilience and power that Indigenous young become a mentor? people are capable of when they feel that others Our mentors range from university students, believe in them. This is the power of AIME. And community members, Indigenous Elders, this is why I do what I do. corporate employees and members of other Thanks Isabel. local support services. The beauty of AIME is

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H M A R I N E

R E S C U E

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i Russell. Tell us a Water. We have a specially equipped search little about your and rescue vessel ready to respond to boaters relationship with the in distress. We urge boaters to always wear Coffs Coast. a lifejacket and to log on with us before I have had two main heading out. Tell us where you are going career paths, one being and when you are due back, how many the owner/manager of a charter boat and people are on board, the boatâ€™s name and scuba diving operation in Jervis Bay. I was registration number, and your contact details. also a commercial boat skipper and Master If a vessel does not return when expected, a Scuba Diving Instructor. My other career path search can be quickly mounted. was that of a Human To log on, boaters Resources Manager in can contact MR Coffs the public sector. Harbour by landline When I retired in 6652 3155, VHF radio I AM PROUD OF OUR 2012, I moved to Coffs channel 16, or 27Mhz MEMBERS, WHO NOT Harbour to enjoy the channel 88, or use the ONLY COMMIT THEIR wonderful diving and free Marine Rescue App. TIME AND ENERGY, beauty of the region, Our volunteers also BUT ALSO BRING A which flowed on to provide a safety watch WIDE RANGE OF SKILLS joining Marine Rescue for community events AND EXPERIENCE TO Coffs Harbour. such as triathlons, OUR UNIT ... You are the Unit swimming events, Commander of outrigger races and the Marine Rescue here in power boats. To help Coffs. What is Marine fund our operations, we Rescue Coffs Harbour do regular fundraising all about? in the community. We are keen to hear from Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour is a local businesses that may wish to sponsor us. volunteer not for profit organisation which is Marine Rescue is made up of volunteers. operational 24/7 and provides a vital safety How many people do you have working service to the regionâ€™s boating community. alongside you? Our mission is Volunteers Saving Lives on the Our membership is 56, including

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professionally trained radio operators and boat ON THE WATER, SIMPLE crew. Other volunteers PROBLEMS CAN BECOME help with tasks such MORE SERIOUS IF NOT as fundraising and DEALT WITH QUICKLY. administration. I am proud of our members, who not only commit their time and energy, at night in challenging conditions, to more but also bring a wide routine jobs where vessels have flat batteries, range of skills and experience to our unit fuel problems or a loss of steering. On the from previous or current careers. There is no water, simple problems can become more cost involved, and we provide uniforms after serious if not dealt with quickly. A disabled a qualifying period. boat could drift on to rocks or way out to sea. Who can become a volunteer, and what What have been some of the biggest sort of training is involved? challenges of the job, and how do you We always welcome new members. overcome them? You do not need a maritime background, One challenge is boaters who don’t log on as we provide professional training - both and then get into difficulty. It slows down our competency-based (personal training on the response time in providing assistance. When job) and some classroom sessions. you log on, give us a few simple details and Marine Rescue NSW is a Registered we can track your voyage. Log on when you Training Organisation, and our training is leave and log off when you return. It is as in accordance with nationally accredited simple as that. qualifications. Our training is comprehensive What drives you to continue to volunteer and integral to the safety service we provide, your time for Marine Rescue? to ensure that our members are skilled Being a Marine Rescue volunteer is very and competent to carry out the range of satisfying. Apart from providing a vital safety duties required in keeping both the boating service, as a trainer and assessor I help people community and our members safe. learn new skills, which is personally very On average, how many assists do you do satisfying. a year, and what kind of assists are they? What safety precautions can Coffs Coast We carry out about 70 rescues a year, locals take when hitting the water? ranging from life threatening emergencies

Check conditions, and if in doubt, don’t go out. All vessels should have the appropriate safety equipment, such as a well maintained VHF radio and a lifejacket for each person on board. Make sure the vessel is seaworthy and check the fuel and batteries. If a vessel has not been used for a long time, the fuel may be old and the battery may need charging or replacing. Once you’ve done that, log on with your local Marine Rescue unit. We encourage local skippers to join our Radio Club, which saves time when logging on. They get a

unique Marine Rescue call sign, which they quote when heading out. Where can we find out more information about Marine Rescue? People can either call us on (02) 6652 3155 or visit the Unit on Beacon Hill, Edinburgh Street, Coffs Harbour. Marine Rescue NSW also has an informative website: www. marinerescuensw.com.au and a Facebook page with regular updates from our 44 units. Thanks Russell. Coffs Coast focus 13

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

A U G U S T

Two Tails Wines PADDOCK TO PLATE

Join us for an intimate event, as we get up close and personal with local producers such as Leonella Pasta, Synchronicity Farm, Black Standard Beef and Guy Fawkes Truffles, who will be providing the freshest of ingredients for your four-course meal, prepared by our star chef Jodie Thornber. Enjoy bubbles on arrival and listen to the journey behind each producer's business success! Limited tickets available! When Friday 27th July. Where Two Tails Wines. Time 6pm. Cost $85. For bookings call 6654 3633 to purchase a ticket today, or visit our Facebook page.

Coffs Harbour GOLD CUP RACE DAY

In its 54th year, this year’s Coffs Harbour Gold Cup is set to be the biggest yet, with not only a huge day of horse racing, but some exciting new hospitality events, along with all the fashions and fanfare that this spectacular social outing brings to the Coffs Coast. When 2nd August. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club.

UNIVERSITY of Newcastle OPEN DAYS VOLKSWAGEN Spectacular Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the VW Country Buggy! Valla Volkswagen Spectacular happens once every two years and falls in the middle of the year. It's a week FULL of fun not to be missed. Add it to your calendar, and make sure your beloved VW is ready for the action! When July 29th until 6th August. Where Valla Beach. More Info volkswagenspectacular.com

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Get advice from staff and students on your study options. When Central Coast - 4 August, Port Macquarie - 16 August. More info www.newcastle.edu.au/openday

SENIOR COLLEGE Open Day Coffs Harbour Senior College will launch their 2019 Year 11 Enrolments at the annual Open Day. The event will be held at Coffs Harbour Education Campus between 12 - 3pm, Saturday, August 4. If you have a child commencing senior studies in 2019, come and meet our friendly staff, students and see our state of the art facilities. When 4th August. Where Coffs Harbour Senior College, Hogbin Drive, Coffs Harbour. More Info seniorcollege.com.au

AROUND the WORLD in 80 DAYS Three actors portray a cast of thousands in this madcap adaptation of Jules Verne’s globetrotting classic, bringing to life sea storms, police chases and even elephant rides! Millionaire adventurer Phileas Fogg agrees to a non-stop sprint circling the globe in just 80 days, an outrageous wager that puts both his fortune and his life at risk. A joyfully frenetic whirlwind of a show, full of daft Victorian invention, daring deeds and downright silliness. When 18th August - 2 and 7pm. Where Jetty Memorial Theatre. Tickets www.jettytheatre.com

360 VINTAGE MODERN Regional Tour

Debuting at #3 on the ARIA Album Charts and #1 on the Australian Album Charts, Vintage Modern pairs 360’s trademark charm, honesty and razor-sharp raps with a lush sonic backbone of guitars and live instrumentation fused with contemporary rap sounds, replacing the heavy synths and electronic drops his music is traditionally known for. When 30th August. Where: Hoey Moey. Tickets: $30 + BF Available from: www.oztix.com.au

Catherine BRITT

and THE COLD COLD HEARTS

Catherine Britt, a songwriter who has already packed a respected and highly acclaimed career into her first two decades as a recording artist begins a new chapter with the release of her seventh studio album, "Catherine Britt & The Cold Cold Hearts" on Friday 20th July.

he album features the first single and video Red Dirt and news that the award-winning artist and her band will bring a special performance to Sawtell RSL Club on Saturday 11th August 2018. Listen, watch and share Red Dirt here: CatherineBritt.lnk.to/RedDirt Red Dirt opens the album on a sprightly percussive banjo note. It’s an ode to driving toward the outback skies, leaving the city in the rearview mirror. As Catherine explains, it sums up one of the core themes of the album: “A lot of the songs are about living every day like it’s your last and just enjoying it”. The video was directed by Brock Daubert and James Fox and produced by Duncan Toombs. Shot in Silverton, many scenes were filmed in the Silverton Hotel, which Catherine and her

husband run for a month each year and has run The Silverton Sunset Music Festival. Catherine Britt & The Cold Cold Hearts conjures up vibrant Australian imagery, from the bush to the coal mines via the white lines of the coastal and desert open roads; the beauty and scale of the landscape juxtaposed with songs of personal challenge and the power of love and family. The album was recorded in Catherine’s own studio, built in her backyard and dubbed the Beverley Hillbilly Studios. With engineer Jeff McCormack behind the desk, Catherine and The Cold Cold Hearts (Michael Muchow and Andy Toombs) self-produced the album, with Bill Chambers guesting on all the tracks. From Newcastle to Nashville, Catherine made the move to the home of country music at just 17 years old. It proved to be a brave decision

that gave her immeasurable experience as a musician, insight into the machinations of the industry and a contract with the legendary RCA Records. Upon returning to Australia in 2009, Catherine set about recording her debut full-length album Dusty Smiles and Heartbreak Cures, the first of five consecutive albums nominated for Album of the Year at the CMAA (Country Music Awards of Australia). The accolades didn’t stop there. Along the way she has received five Golden Guitar Awards, the CMA Global Artist of the Year award in 2010 and six ARIA Award nominations for Best Country Album. The critical acclaim for her albums and reputation as a performer has seen Catherine tour and perform with some of the biggest names in music, including Sir Elton John, Don McLean, Kasey Chambers, Brooks & Dunn,

Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, Steve Earle, Guy Clark, Chris Isaak and Keith Urban. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, both good and bad, and the last three years have seen Catherine fight and win a battle with breast cancer, marry her husband James and most recently, give birth to their first child. Out of those highs and lows comes Catherine Britt & The Cold Cold Hearts, an album that rattles and rolls with life, energy and honest, autobiographical songwriting.

Appearing Live with special guest Melody Moko on Saturday, August 11th, 2018 at the Sawtell RSL Club.

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focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update. W H E N I S T H E R I GH T T I M E T O S E L L YO U R P R O P E RT Y? We’re currently experiencing a shortage of good quality properties in the market for sale. THIS CREATES AN INTERESTING HOLDING PATTERN, AS POTENTIAL SELLERS ARE NOT PUTTING THEIR PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET as they are unable to find anything that suits them to buy, therefore, perpetuating the shortage of properties available to purchase.

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owever, this is actually the best time to sell to maximise your selling price. This is a tricky position, however - most sellers don’t have the luxury of being able to purchase before they sell; most have to sell in order to buy. The advantage of selling when there is not much available is that other buyers are also finding it difficult to find good quality houses. This creates buyer competition and will help you secure a higher price for your home. Real estate prices depend on the law of supply and demand When the demand for property is high but property is scarce, prices increase, and it becomes a seller's market. When the number of available properties increases to glut the market, prices typically drop. Using winter to your advantage Selling in winter can be a little more challenging to stage your home the way you would like to, but with a little extra effort you can use winter to your advantage - particularly on the Coffs Coast, as our winters are not severe at all. Buyers moving from other areas where the harsh winters are pushing them north are frustrated at the lack of selection. They are finance ready and want to buy, but cannot find suitable properties to look at. A large proportion of sellers will wait until spring to list their homes for sale, as this has been typically promoted as the best time to sell;

however, this creates an influx of supply for buyers. The increased supply can, in fact, negatively affect sale prices if the supply is greater than the buyer demand. The law of supply and demand If you remember that supply and demand creates growth in real estate values and growth in rent, this will help you become a more successful seller and investor. It will separate emotional decision from financial opportunity. Understanding this basic economic principle can help consumers decide the best time to buy or sell their properties. You may have heard that the real estate industry is cyclical, that it booms and busts, and rises and dips as years go by. What does this mean for you? If you are thinking about selling, now is an exceptional time to get things moving. You are selling in an understood and known market without the risks of potential economic changes that may occur in later months. You are also in the market prior to potential competition waiting to come to market during perceived “trend” periods, enabling you to secure motivated purchasers eager to move now. With out of area purchasers representing 42% of our past 12 months of sales, we are experiencing strong population growth and investment acquisitions for future retirement.

Klaustel. Your “LOCAL” NBN Internet and Phone Line Provider. Did you know here at Klaustel we personally organise your NBN, telephone and internet services, as well as phone systems small or large? At Klaustel, we are your one stop shop.

Watch this Space.

We give expert advice, offer an efficient personalised and prompt service with ongoing local support and remember: at Klaustel the people who sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it.

Love & Kisses owner Judy Sheehan has just had a huge clear out in her storeroom - (were you one of the lucky people making the most of her super bargains?) - and now she’s off to Melbourne trade fairs again to stock up on fun new gifts for Christmas.

Locals looking after locals. Supplying excellent quality at great prices, our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems means there is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans.

New goodies will start arriving from early August, so call in often to see what she’s found.

Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans if you prefer. As a service provider under Klaustel’s brand with our competitive rates, we are now rivalling the larger telcos with our NBN and phone line pricing, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business. “Our aim as a local service provider is to provide uncomplicated, easy to use, easy to understand products and services with exceptional customer service”. Call us today for a no obligation bill assessment, to see how you can save with Klaustel.

Judy says her favourite new thing that’s in the shop right now are “3D” frames to hold and display all your precious little family treasures - from baby booties to Grandma’s jewellery. One of her customers has even framed a handmade surfboard fin! You have to check these out - they’re the cleverest new idea we’ve seen this year. When you need to buy yourself a lovely leather bag at the best price in town, or when you need to buy a special something to give “with love and kisses from me” - then Love & Kisses is the first place to go. Just ask any of the happy customers you’ll meet in this great little shop on any day of the week.

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focus_tech

WITH

GAVIN MORONEY

Tech Head

TECH

Travel Kit PART 2

Travel gadgets are a huge market that makes the lives of travellers easier every single day. We constantly ask ourselves, what camera do I bring? How am I going to charge all of my devices? What do I do if I lose my bag? Don't worry, because we have you sorted with Part 2 of the Best Tech Travel Kit you can't live without. Tile: www.jbhifi.com.au take this camera literally anywhere; whether it’s This little piece of genius has saved not only my snorkelling in Fiji or skydiving in Dubai, or even time, but my sanity as well. This device, through at your next family get together, you will be the use of their app, will locate any lost bag, able to catch every minute of it with this video keys, wallet or even your phone. Tile is affordable and still camera that can fit straight into your and brain-dead easy to use; just attach it to pocket. Through the years I have found GoPro whatever you tend to lose! to be a little shaky when Although the app and Tile filming, but with their must be within Bluetooth new image stabilisation range of each other, it also you are guaranteed to connects to a database so get some really nice, The GoPro should be no that if you have your travel stranger to anyone, and smooth footage. Make bag lost or stolen, you there is a reason for it. sure you check out eBay or anyone else using the With the rise of small and Amazon for GoPro Tile app in close proximity

action cameras on the accessories, as the GoPro to your bag will be able market, the GoPro branded accessories can to update the location still is a favourite be a little pricey. of your lost item on your amongst most due to its map. It comes in a few Belkin Domestic Travel portability and quality. different styles. The Tile Surge Protector with 2 Slim is about three times USB Ports 2.4A: www. the thickness of a credit officeworks.com.au card and slips neatly into your wallet, and the Rounding off our list is something that may Tile Mate can be attached to your keyring. So if you're like me and spend countless hours looking not be the most exciting bit of tech, but it is something you shouldn't leave home without. for your keys or wallet, I’d highly recommend The Belkin Domestic travel surge protector is getting this neat piece of tech. a must have for charging on your travels. The GoPro Hero6: www.gopro.com adaptor has two surge protected AC outlets The GoPro should be no stranger to anyone, for powering devices. It also has two USB ports and there is a reason for it. With the rise with a shared output of 2.4 A. It has easy to fold of small action cameras on the market, the plugs to make it ultra portable, so it's great for GoPro still is a favourite amongst most due to taking when travelling. It also saves space by not its portability and quality. The GoPro Hero6 having to bring 10 different chargers for all your comes with 4K Ultra HD Video, touch screen, 12 megapixel stills and voice control. You can devices. 18 Coffs Coast focus

Sam Dawson of PFLAG Coffs Coast.

Sam Dawson is a local Marriage Celebrant, mother of a gay son and was a very visible supporter of the Marriage Equality campaign last year. She is now turning her passion to heading up a much needed Coffs Coast PFLAG group - we wanted to know more!

i Sam. What is PFLAG? PFLAG stands for Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. It is a non-profit voluntary organisation whose members have a common goal of keeping families together. PFLAG is here to give help, support and information to families and friends of all gay people.

me reach the people who will need our support the most. Scott and I, being parents of a gay son who grew up here, saw firsthand the need for support. It is difficult on so many levels for people to identify when they are realising they are “different” and to know when they should and shouldn’t “come out” to their families. This is one area where our group can offer support to families through our own personal experiences, as well as offering guidance and resources from professionals. PFLAG is made up of

Who makes up PFLAG? Parents and friends of gay and lesbian people who are a part parents and friends of gay of our community. How can people access and lesbian people who are Some of our families this group? a part of our community. may be large, some My son, Ben and I have Some of our families may small, some of us set up a website and be large, some small, some are married, some FB page, PFLAG Coffs of us are married, some divorced, some single. Coast, so it is very easy divorced, some single. Our occupations to get in touch. We have are as varied as our our first coffee meeting personalities and in August too. Just educational levels. remember that this is a However, we do have a common bond. safe space and getting in touch is a positive Someone we love and care for is lesbian or step and shows your desire to support your gay or part of the LGBTIQ group. child or loved one. We believe it is crucial What is your role? I am coordinating the PFLAG group. I took over recently from a lovely lady, Leanne, and I am set up with great resource materials, as well as a great database of people who are local who can assist parents and friends. I have been meeting with key people like Tod Trappett from the LGBTIQ Coffs Connection and Community Group, who are all helping

for families and friends to have accurate, unbiased information regarding gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer issues. The most important thing is keeping families together through acceptance and greater knowledge. www.pflagcoffscoast.com Facebook: PFLAGcoffcoast Phone: 0417 861 045.

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focusinterview.

Muay Thai KRONGSAK LEK

Krongsak Lek grew up training in Muay Thai Boxing in his father’s gym in Thailand. He was scouted by the age of 14 and has since had an extremely successful career in the sport, which has taken him all over the world. He has now settled on the Coffs Coast, after meeting his partner and starting a family in Sydney, and has started training students here in the art of Muay Thai.

i Krongsak. Tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast. I moved from Thailand to Sydney in 2000, where I met my partner in 2005. In 2009, after our son Jack was born, we decided to move back to Thailand to raise him where he would be closer to my family. In 2013 we moved back to Australia and set up home on the Coffs Coast. Muay Thai Boxing has been a huge part of your life; when did the journey begin? I began training in my father’s gym at the age of eight, before and after school. This was considered fairly normal for young boys in Thailand, training twice a day, six days a week. And it was, I suppose, considered a young boy's “rite of passage” to manhood. At the age of nearly 14 I was invited to participate in a “four states of Thailand” fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. I entered in the 43 kg division, where I had to fight a total of four bouts before being crowned champion for that weight category. This result opened many doors, and I was scouted by a trainer from Koh Samui. Shortly after this I left home and moved to Koh Samui to pursue a fight career under this trainer. Every three weeks there was an expectation to fight up in Bangkok at Lumpinee Stadium. I would train in a gym in Bangkok for a week before preparing for these fights.

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How long were you fighting competitively? I fought competitively from the age of 14 TEACHING YOUNG PEOPLE through to the age of THE IMPORTANCE OF 30. In this time I toggled KEEPING THEIR HEAD between fighting in Koh UP, STAYING HEALTHY, Samui and Bangkok, Fighting up a weight DISCIPLINED AND FOCUSED taking out various titles. division to get opponents. IS VERY REWARDING. My prominent moments Jumping from 64 kg to of my fight career started 75 kg weight division can around the age of 24 be extremely difficult, as where I was fighting at 64 your everyday training rekg, which I considered to be my preferred “fight gime entails an enormous amount of cardio that weight”. will naturally strip weight and at the same time as Where are some of the destinations Muay trying to gain weight. Very hard work to achieve. Thai has taken you, and what place stands Can you tell us about some stand out moout the most? ments from your career? I have fought in Japan, England, France, HolOn the 20th October 1996 (aged 24), I was land, Rome, Greece, Sweden, Russia, Denmark, successful in taking out the title of Super LightBelgium, United States, Australia, Hong Kong weight Champion of the World in Muay Thai and Germany. Boxing. This fight was staged in Paris - France. What place stands out the most - Holland and Over the next eighteen months I defended this France come to mind, as they were the toughest title seven times, each time at Lumpinee of all my opponents. Stadium - Bangkok. What do you think makes a World ChampiNow that you're not competing and you are on? here on the Coffs Coast training, how has it Dedication to train hard, never give up, never been sharing your knowledge and training stop believing in yourself. Remaining calm, comothers? posed and focused always. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with students What have been some of the biggest chalwho come to me and express an interest in lenges of being a competitive fighter? learning the art of Muay Thai Boxing, which has

been passed down and practiced for some 2,000 years. Teaching young people the importance of keeping their head up, staying healthy, disciplined and focused is very rewarding. Do you mostly train people wanting to become competitive fighters, or people just wanting to learn Muay Thai for fun and fitness? A combination of both. Currently I have a few male and female students preparing for upcoming fights in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sydney. Generally most people of varying ages come along to learn an art of self defence, whilst increasing their fitness and confidence. What advice would you give anyone wanting to try Muay Thai or another form of martial art? Martial Arts is an individual sport designed to develop the mind and body over time through regular training. It promotes discipline and respect. It is to be practiced in a formal class environment and not in the school playground or in the street. Thanks Krongsak.

Big Banana Pancakes, served with our farm fresh bananas, Carobana honeycomb cream and maple syrup, sprinkled with honeycomb dust, from The Big Banana. Coffs Coast focus 21

focus_editorial.

63 first AVENUE

63 First Avenue in Sawtell combines delicious craft beers and boutique wines with some of the best food around. They focus on sourcing their beers from small breweries, typically only ordering 50 - 100 litres of each beer.

his means you’ll always have the opportunity to try something new and unique when you visit, with a lager, pale, IPA and dark beer all on tap. They have also recently introduced a gluten free pale ale, which tastes delicious and allows people suffering from coeliac disease to still enjoy a refreshing beer on a warm day. For those who prefer wine, the team at 63 prefer to use smaller wineries, with most of their range coming from Orange, Armidale and the Barossa Valley. New owner Joel Leske grew up in the Barossa Valley and plans to increase their wine range further over the coming months.

The kitchen team constantly reviews their menu to deliver meals and snacks that not only taste great, but also use fresh, local produce as

C A F É

A Q U A

much as possible. Owner Joel Leske told FOCUS that it was important to support other small businesses. “We are a small business and believe that wherever we can, we should encourage and support other small businesses, particularly those situated along the Coffs Coast,” he said. 63 First Avenue is open Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm. Check out their Facebook page for more details or call 0429 902 959 to book a table.

Crafty • Starward Wine Cask Single Malt Whisky • Recently crowned Australia’s Best Single Malt Whisky and winner of the World's Best Craft Distilled Whisky in 2016, Melbourne distillery, Starward, has their Wine Cask Single Malt sitting proudly amongst the seriously impressive whisky collection at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip. Produced using bespoke 100% Aussie malted barley and matured in hand selected Barossa Valley ex-shiraz casks, this absolute gem provides a deliciously complex and balanced dram, completely unshackled by tradition.

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TARA GUNDRY Time spent working in the industry: 15 years. Favourite food to cook with: Fresh and local produce.

hen it comes to always fun and enjoyable. We each rotate creating a seasonal and work together in creating our fortnightly menu, what do specials, which helps us be more creative you take into with our dishes, as we all come from different consideration? The experiences and backgrounds in the industry. produce which is in season at the time, the What would you say is the biggest weather and where the produce comes from. influence in your cooking? I look at what flavours work well together and A combination of things. Whilst working the types of travelling clientele we have visiting. and travelling, I loved exploring new cultures, What is your trying different flavours favourite dish on the and learning new cooking menu currently and skills. My TAFE teacher why? was really inspirational Eggs Benny, because WHILST WORKING throughout my training I enjoy my morning and teaching. I’ve been AND TRAVELLING, I ritual of setting up and lucky enough to work in LOVED EXPLORING NEW making the hollandaise some amazing places, with CULTURES, TRYING with a good coffee. exceptional chefs, where For lunch I have fun DIFFERENT FLAVOURS I gained an awareness making and tasting the of attention to detail, AND LEARNING NEW pulled pork, because learnt new culinary skills, COOKING SKILLS. I learnt how to make how to remain calm and that dish when I lived collected under pressure, in Canada; I love the an understanding and flavours, and it reminds me of my time over appreciation of good food. I’ve worked in there. some really cool cafés in which I learnt the Have you travelled much to expand your importance of rustic and wholesome food. interest in food? Outside of work, what do you enjoy Yes, I’ve been to Canada; I lived and worked cooking? over there. I’ve travelled all through America I love to cook Asian food and fresh and Japan. I’ve lived in numerous unique places homemade pasta. However, as much as I love in Australia. cooking outside of work, I’m lucky enough that Who else works in the kitchen on your my husband, Rossco, loves cooking as much as team? I do. I enjoy watching him being creative and There’s Nathan, Mick and Tyler. I work eating his delicious meals. We share a love of with an awesome team of chefs who help trying new dishes, mixing it up and discovering our kitchen flow with ease; they are all new foods together. hard-working and make coming to work Thanks Tara.

focusinterview.

oair pen

Joe the carpenter and Libby the teacher are both Sawtellians who decided to MAKE THEIR DREAM OF WORKING TOGETHER AND SHARING THEIR LOVE OF HEALTHY DELICIOUS FOOD COME TRUE ... and hence Open Air Café was born! They both tell us more …

ongratulations, Libby and Joe teaching. Because we always had a dream of on the successful first year in working together and a joint love of food and our your business, Open Air Café. home town of Sawtell, when the opportunity to What have been some of the start a new adventure together arose, we thought highlights and challenges for - why not! you? You've had a change in focus from picnics and Thank you! We can’t believe it has been a take aways to eat in dining with a new chef whole year; it has flown by so quick! and a fab new There have been so many highlights, menu - what can including connecting with so many we expect to amazing customers, learning the ins see/eat? and outs of running a food business, Our ultimate Our ultimate vision to create employing and working with the vision to create fresh, delicious and most incredible staff and having fun fresh, delicious and affordable food for all experimenting with delicious, fresh affordable food for ages and tastes hasn’t food from some great local suppliers. all ages and tastes changed, but our focus has The best part has been being able to hasn’t changed, certainly shifted towards do it together. but our focus has becoming a dine-in café, and There have also been a fair share of certainly shifted offering a wider range of options challenges, including learning how to towards becoming for breakfast and lunch. begin a food business from scratch, a dine-in café, and trying to navigate the right business offering a wider path and keeping customers happy, range of options while also sticking to our values. for breakfast and You are both Sawtell locals but have come lunch. from very different backgrounds to that While we still offer a variety of picnic hampers, of hospitality. Can you tell us more about we now offer a full dine-in breakfast and lunch yourselves, your inspiration and transition to menu, which our customers can enjoy in our café owners and operators? café with us, or they can take away if they are The hospitality industry is very new to us both! busy and on the go. Our menu offers heaps of Joe is a carpenter by trade, so his background options for meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans has been mainly that of building, and insurance and includes a DIY breakfast menu, vegetarian building, and Libby’s background is primary school beans, brekky burgers, brekky wraps and matcha

pancakes. Our lunch menu offers delicious salads, beef and vegetarian burgers, soups, wraps, nachos, smoothies, milkshakes, smoothie bowls and more. We love catering for people with specific food intolerances and can tailor any of our meals to suit most preferences. You have a strong focus on healthy food at Open Air Café; how important is promoting healthy food options and a healthy lifestyle to you both? We both have a passion for healthy food and a strong belief that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is so important, not only for our physical health. but mental health too. Because of this, we are passionate about the food we prepare, and the people we source our produce from. We want to change the misconception out there that healthy food is boring or tasteless- and show people that healthy food can not only taste amazing, but makes you feel good too! While our menu is primarily healthy, we believe that life is about balance - therefore we have a few options for when you feel like a bit of a treat! Come on in and say hi and taste some of our delicious meals on offer! Thanks guys.

Phone 02 66582505 61 First Avenue, Sawtell openairpicnics.com.au Coffs Coast focus 23

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focus_tourism

W I T H S T E P H E N S A U N D E R S O F D E S T I N AT I O N C O F F S C O A S T

tourism UPDATE

Startup Onramp from idea to business! 6 Degrees, the centre of Coffs Coast’s innovation activities, will be delivering Startup Onramp to a group of up to 12 founders, beginning in September 2018. A specialised training and mentoring program for first-time startup businesses, Startup Onramp gives new and aspiring founders the skills and guidance they need to launch a globally scalable startup.

Celebrating Success. Our local tourism businesses are in the spotlight at this year’s Regional Tourism Awards, held on July 25 in Coffs Harbour.

he awards acknowledge excellence in tourism for the region, extending from the Great Lakes in the south to the Tweed Coast in the north. We

congratulate our Coffs Coast finalists: Bonville Golf Resort One of the world’s most beautiful golf courses - the ideal location for individual or group golfing experiences, wedding and receptions, conferences and fine dining experiences. Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation “Two path strong” in the Gumbaynggirr language - delivering programs designed to ensure that Aboriginal youth are strong in both cultural identity and educational success. Bunker Cartoon Gallery Australia’s only dedicated cartoon gallery housed in an authentic underground WWII bunker - exhibiting and preserving Australia’s cartooning history for future generations. Destination Coffs Coast The team at Coffs Harbour City Council works to deliver tourism and marketing services for Destination Coffs Coast and promote this special region as the perfect place to #createyourparadise. Forestry Corporation of NSW The award winning Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout offers an expansive view of Coffs Harbour city, its foreshores and marina, Solitary Islands Marine Park and surrounding mountain ranges. Heritage Hotel Motel Dorrigo Built in 1925, this heritage listed grand hotel with soaring parapet and wrought iron verandah combines classic accommodations with high level customer service. Jetty Dive Centre

Scuba or snorkel in the amazing Solitary Islands Marine Park with experienced and knowledgeable dive crew. Go whale watching in season or try the new “Whale Swim” experience. Open Air Picnics Everything you need to enjoy good quality, healthy, nutritious food in the great outdoors (or dine-in). Grab a freshly prepared picnic hamper and hire all the equipment you need.

The program includes a series of comprehensive workshops delivered over 12 weeks, following a logical progression from idea validation to product development, customer acquisition, investment and growth. The workshops will be delivered by a trained program facilitator and supported by guest presenters from the local region - including entrepreneurs, investors and subject matter experts - who will also assist with mentoring the participants. The program culminates in a “pitch” night at the end of the program, where all the startup founders will present their developed ideas. It is expected that at the end of the Startup

Onramp program, founders will: • have defined their market offering • have validated their ideas with the market and experts • improve their startup skills and understanding of the startup landscape • develop a viable business model with revenue streams • be able to pitch to gain co-founders, investors or enter an accelerator program • be ready to access grants such as the Jobs for NSW MVP grant • be capable of entering the Startup Coffs Coast 2019 Pitch Comp • and “pitch” in relevant competitions or to funders outside the region. 6 Degrees are running pre-program workshops in August to assist founders develop their application to be part of the Startup Onramp program. Application Deadline: 19 AUGUST 2018. Find all the information about Startup Onramp on the 6degreescoffs.com website or contact Kristina Cooke on 6648 4089.

Riverside Holiday Resort Urunga Located on the river with 32 self-contained units, the resort includes an outdoor pool, BBQ areas, spring free trampolines, children’s playground, free wifi, and boat and trailer parking. The Big Banana Fun Park The biggest and best fun park on the NSW North Coast - water park, ice skating rink, laser tag, toboggan ride, mini golf, giant slide, candy kitchen, café and more make this a whole bunch of fun! The Cheesemaking Workshop & Deli Teaching the art of home cheese making, sharing knowledge and passion in various hands-on workshops; plus the deli stocks more than 250 cheeses from Australia and around the world. Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours Paddle with the direct descendants of the world’s first stand up paddlers and connect to land and sea through stories and language as you collect and taste seasonal bush tucker. Woolgoolga Curryfest Now in its 13th year, Curryfest is a celebration of culture, diversity and community with worldclass entertainment hundreds of market stalls and fun for the whole family. Find out more at coffscoast.com.au/regional-tourism-awards Coffs Coast focus 25

63 First Avenue. After running a successful café and food delivery business in Coffs Harbour, owner Joel Leske has now made the move to Sawtell, taking over ownership of 63 First Avenue (formerly Mother’s Milk). He is excited by the move, telling FOCUS that he plans to continue to offer the same great food and beer selection that many locals have come to know and love. “63 is a great business and people love it just the way it is, so we’re not changing anything - even the existing team are all staying on,” Joel said. Joel’s passion for food has come with him to 63 and in conjunction with chef Todd, they have introduced some exciting new dishes: “We wanted to bring in some delicious light meals and snacks that perfectly accompany the great range of craft beers on tap. “With that in mind, we have introduced chilli prawns with apple slaw and a watercress and haloumi salad, as well as a share plate of ribs, wings and onion rings. Our new winter dessert is also available - a decadent sticky date pudding, which is already proving really popular.”

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focusinterview.

Preatures

BEVIN NEWTON POPSGOOD - BOWL-A-NANA Bevin Newton is at it again, bringing back the BOWL-A-NANA SKATE COMPETITION FOR ITS SECOND YEAR ON THE COFFS COAST. We sat down with Bevin to discuss the ins and outs of this skate event on the 18th August.

ey Bevin. Tell us about your organisation, good judges, good music and good connection to the Coffs skateboarders. The best part about skateboarding Coast. is how everyone cheers each other on, and it I have grown up in Coffs creates a really amazing atmosphere. Harbour for most of my life. I As it was such a great event last year, I expect love the lifestyle here. this year to be bigger and better. Although the lack of skateboarding in this area What makes Coffs Skatepark such a unique has forced me to travel to skate, I always end up place to hold this event? back here. Besides Coffs Harbour being located right Bowl-A-Nana is entering its second year. in the middle of two major cities in Australia What was your reason for starting a skate (Sydney and Brisbane), most bowl/park style comp on the Coffs Coast? skateboard competitions are held in deep bowls. Coffs Harbour finally had a proper skatepark Coffs Harbour's bowl really isn't that deep; built here about five years however, its extensions ago. In the years leading and unique technical up to last year’s event, design actually appeal there still had not been a to more people than high level skateboarding traditional "deep bowl THE BEST PART ABOUT competition held here. I competitions". SKATEBOARDING IS had to change that. Who are some of HOW EVERYONE CHEERS What can we expect the national and EACH OTHER ON, AND from the day? international skaters IT CREATES A REALLY Well, if last year’s event coming to the event? AMAZING ATMOSPHERE. is anything to go by, Last year we had you will see some of the skateboarders such as Jed best skateboarders from Mckenzie (Newcastle), around the country and overseas make their way Nixen Osborne (Gold Coast), Josh Koterz to Coffs Harbour. (Melbourne) and Justin Carriage (Coffs Harbour) It is the only event of its kind on the Mid North making it through to the finals, with Jakob Coast, and the level of skateboarding will be Robinson (Ballina) taking out the event. insane. This year we expect these guys and more to Who can enter the competition, and what return, and we are now expecting New Zealand age groups are competing? top ranked bowl riders such as Bowman Hansen Bowl-A-Nana is open to anyone who wants and Shaun Boucher to make an appearance, as to compete. This year we have three divisions: well as rumours of some skateboarders from the Under 16s, Masters (40 and over) and Opens/Pro, United States. with over $1,500 cash up for grabs. Where can we find out more about Bowl-AWhat made the Bowl-A-Nana such a success Nana? last year, and what are your expectations for You can find more information about last year’s this year? and this year’s event at www.popsgood.com As always with skateboarding, it is the people Alternatively, turn up on August 18th at Brelsford who make the event as amazing as it is. Good Park and check it out yourself.

2018 has been a huge year for THE PREATURES, SHARING THE STAGE WITH THE LIKES OF THE FOO FIGHTS AND HARRY STYLES. You can catch them at the Hoey Moey in August, along with Ali Barter! FOCUS chatted to front woman Izzy Manfredi …

t's only been a short time since we last featured you guys, but you pretty much haven’t stopped since Festival of the Sun! Foo Fighters, Harry Styles... We’ve done a truckload of shows; its all a bit of a blur … we did the Harry Shows; that was really cool. Playing festivals, hanging out, having an Australian summer, thinking about what we’re going to do with the next record, I moved house ... I actually spent a couple of weeks up in Scotts Head; we do that every year. We’ve had a house up there ever since I was a kid. So, you mentioned a new record … anything you can give away? Not sure yet - still writing and trying to figure it out. Some vibes set, but nothing I really want to give away yet; I want to sit with it for a while. Let’s talk about Girlhood. It's been just under a year since its release, with a massive response. Is this what you expected? I think it was really difficult to have any kind of expectation, especially around Yanada and how that was going to be received, and to have expectations around that we would kill it. I was trying really hard not to have expectations and then at the same time, of course, you’re human and you just want it to go gangbusters. But, it was great in some ways, because it was such a different record for us to make. I think some people were surprised by that record; for us it was just it had been so long, we had spent so long in the studio - it was nice to just be like, "Hey, it's out; go grab it, get it!" And with the title, Girlhood - as a woman, how has this been received, and what have you taken from it? Yeah well, I mean it's interesting with this, because obviously it's been five months since all the stuff with "Me Too" in the community;

we’re having lots of different conversations now. And before we put the record out, I struggled so hard to talk about those sorts of things in August of last year and when we were doing the long lead press, which was in June/July of last year ... Maybe that was just cowardly on my part, that I didn’t put my opinions out there, but I don’t think I was alone in that as a woman feeling like I couldn’t. There wasn’t a place for those discussions in the music industry. You’re bringing Ali Barter along for the ride on this tour. What's your connection with her? We’ve played a couple of gigs with Ali. I really liked her record; there have been huge amounts of transparency about talking what it's like to be a woman in 2018 and Ali’s record, I thought, was a lot more cohesive a record than ours was. For a debut record, I thought it was really honest, and it kind of reminds me of Cardigans, and like early 2000s bands. Shirley Manson and her partner Oscar, who helped produce the record, is in Holy Holy, who tuned with us a couple of years ago. What's up next, after you guys wrap up this tour? I’m going to go travelling for a bit and do some writing and hang out with my dad, spend some time with my family and just start writing for the next record … Thanks Izzy.

Get your tickets before you miss out! The Preatures - Magick Tour - with Special Guest Ali Barter. Friday 17 August 2018, Hoey Moey Hotel. www.hoeymoey.com.au Coffs Coast focus 27

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focusinterview.

Patrick McGrath says he has always been intensely interested in how things work ... Taking apart and re-assembling electrical or mechanical items helped him focus and stay calm through his anxiety, which was later diagnosed as Autism. That love of figuring out how things worked led him to start collecting old cameras, and eventually he started using them and realised he had a very good eye and a talent for taking beautiful photos.

Patrick McGrath

i Patrick. Tell us a little about your connection to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs Harbour with my family in 1995 when I was 10 years old and have called this city home ever since. I went to Coffs Harbour Community Christian School, both primary and high school campuses. So, having spent most of my life here, I feel more comfortable with my Coffs Coast surroundings than I do when visiting larger cities like Sydney or Brisbane. I’ve been on a few short photography expeditions to places further afield in recent years, but I’m always happy to come home. I love the ease of access to nature here on the Coffs Coast and exploring the beach or the hinterland with my camera and a friend or two makes me feel really happy and relaxed. But I also enjoy it when locals smile and say g’day in the street or shopping centre. It makes me feel part of this community. I like hanging out with friends I’ve made at Lifehouse Church, and spending time with family members who also live here. I’m not sure I could live happily anywhere else. What's your “back story” behind the lens … What inspired you to first pick up a camera?

I’VE BEEN TOLD I HAVE A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE, AND SOMETIMES THAT DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE COMES OUT IN MY PHOTOS. IT’S JUST THE WAY I SEE THE WORLD.

I’ve been intensely interested in how things work since a very young age, before I even started school. In fact, my parents once caught me hiding under my blankets in the dark with a broken radio I’d just got to work, after I’d been put to bed. I believe I was about four years old at the time. I had major learning difficulties and anxiety as a child, and tinkering with unwanted electronic or mechanical items used to help me focus and calm my anxiety. People would often give me broken radios and electrical appliances, and I would pull them apart, figure out how they worked and build something new. In my early teens I was diagnosed with Autism, which helped explain a lot of my anxiety and enabled my family to seek appropriate medical assistance for me. So, my very first interest in cameras was purely to see how they work. After a while, I started to gather a collection of old cameras that I would pick up at garage sales and charity shops. A few years ago I was offered a short course in photography and discovered that it’s also fun to use a camera to express how I see the world and the environment around me. I found out I was good at taking photos and with the encouragement of my family and

mentor, decided to try to turn my hobby into a part-time business. Where do you draw your inspiration from? I guess I’m inspired by nature to a large degree, but I’m also drawn to the quirky and unusual, things that other people may miss. I can look at an incoming wave and see a face hiding inside it, or a piece of rough timber and see a bird or an animal within the grain. I’ve been told I have a unique perspective, and sometimes that different perspective comes out in my photos. It’s just the way I see the world. What are some of the most memorable photos you have taken on the Coffs Coast and why? My personal favourites are my photos of the old bunker near Gallows Beach, which is a Coffs Harbour icon that looks especially good in black and white. It’s part of the town’s history. Sawtell Headland and Urunga Wetlands are places I also visit frequently, as the environment is always changing in those places. What do you love most about photography? I love the sense of freedom that comes with

getting out into the local environment, finding something that catches my eye, and capturing it with my camera, then sharing it with my audience. I feel so lucky to live where I live, because the photo opportunities are abundant. For me, every time I get to go out and about with my camera it’s like an expedition of exciting new discoveries. Where can people see more of your work? I’m always taking new photos, so my portfolio is constantly growing. Most of my work can be seen and purchased as wall art or digital downloads on my website: patrickmcgrathphotography.com I also have Facebook and Instagram platforms. I’m currently in the process of preparing to showcase some of my artwork at the Palate and Ply Espresso Bar in Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour, at the kind invitation of Gary, the owner. I’d love to hear from any other business owners on the Coffs Coast who might be interested in showcasing some of my work! Thanks Patrick. Coffs Coast focus 29

D I R E C T

W H O L E S A L E

S E R V I C E S

direct Wholesale services

Direct Wholesale Services (DWS) is a local, family owned business that's been serving commercial customers and the general public in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas since 1960. FOCUS caught up with company owner Barry Ford to find out more ... OUR HISTORY How did the DWS story begin? DWS has been operating in Coffs since at least 1960. I am not sure of the very beginning, but I believe the original location was in the Jetty area and then shifted to Lawson Crescent. The business had been owned by the same extended family for about 50 years when our family bought it. Tell us about DWS ... Why did you decide to open, and how has the business grown since inception? Since we purchased the business, the

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revenue has grown by almost 50% and we employ three additional staff. The range of products we offer and support has also grown similarly, and we are always looking for new lines to add. What part of the business are you most proud of? Iâ€™m proud of the DWS team approach to customer service. We believe our focus on service is the point of difference for our business, and we are most conscious of the importance of helping our customers provide the best products and services they can to their customers.

What have been the biggest changes you have seen over the last years? There is more competition for business, particularly from large national operators. More recently, there has been a focus by consumers on recycling and compostability of products. As a result, this influence has flowed through to our customers, who are now requesting we supply more eco friendly products. As part of our commitment to help our customers solve their problems, weâ€™ve streamlined our processes to make dealing with us as easy and efficient as possible;

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artwork setup on Paper Bags until 31 August

W H O L E S A L E

we’ve increased our product range in response to customer feedback and we’ve established an online presence, so customers can deal with us at a time that best suits them.

RELOCATION You have recently relocated and opened a new showroom in Hurley Drive. When and why did you decide to relocate the business? Our lease in Lawson Crescent was coming to an end, and it just happened that the Hurley Drive property was available at the same time. We decided to move in April, and then went into denial for a few weeks once we thought about what would be involved. But the move has gone well, and our new premises at We believe our focus on service Unit 1/18 Hurley Drive offer is the point of diﬀerence for improved parking, showroom and our business, and we are administration facilities and an most conscious of the up-to-date warehouse. importance of helping our We believe the new location customers provide the best will better enable us to continue products and services they can to providing high quality products their customers. and services at competitive prices.

S E R V I C E S

FREE

Amy: is our front office specialist and does an excellent job of serving our customers, in person or on the phone. Diane, Lee and Ben: are our sales team and spend their time calling on customers and helping them with their various requirements. Tim: is our full-time store person and delivery driver. He will be familiar to all of our Coffs customers. Jeff and Lukas: are our part-time crew. Jeff does deliveries for us and Lukas helps in the warehouse.

design & art on Digital Hot Cups until 31 August

LOCAL SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

How important is it to support local? It is important to support local and regional, with the proviso the pricing and service are equal to what can be obtained from major suppliers located in larger centres. It is important for locals to support each other. Local businesses need the support of the customers and the customers need the support of the businesses by providing a good range of products and services at fair prices. We enjoy the support of many local businesses, of which we are very appreciative. What particular local projects have you been a part of and what are they most proud of? We like to support John and Honi and the Sherwood Cliffs Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Farm. Do you believe it is important to be part of the Coffs community? Yes, it is important to be part of the community. I’m a student of the Japanese martial art Aikido and teach classes twice a week. I’m Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee of the CHCC and Treasurer of the Coffs Harbour Golf Club. The business has supported junior rugby and Hockey Coffs.

YOUR BRAND SHINE MAKE THE MOVE TO PAPER DIGITAL HOT CUPS TO MAKE TEAM

Who makes up your team, and what are their roles? We have the following team: Barry and Deborah: owners of the business. Deb works behind the scenes to keep the website and inventory lists updated and accurate. Larissa: is the Operations Manager and keeps everything operating smoothly. She comes to us from a similar operation in Port Stephens.

With lightweight plastic bags now banned throughout many regions in Australia – paper bags are the perfect alternative. Featuring a wide range of checkout and takeaway bags, Detpak MAKE THE MOVE TO PAPER products are made from high quality, ethically and sustainably sourced paper. Detpak paper bags can hold up to 18kgs and canFREE be reused, recycled or composted. artwork setup on Paper Bags until 31 August

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With lightweight plastic bags now banned throughout many regions in Australia – paper bags are the perfect alternative. Featuring a wide range of checkout and takeaway bags, Detpak products are made from high quality, ethically and sustainably sourced paper. Detpak paper bags can hold up to 18kgs and can be reused, recycled or composted.

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Coffs Coast focus 31

1ST AUGUST Jacob Murray - Element Bar

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

2ND AUGUST The Buggy Brothers - Hoey Moey Benny Black - Element Bar

3RD AUGUST The Buggy Brothers - Hoey Moey Money Shot - Seaview Tavern Chris Grieve - Element Bar

4TH AUGUST DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern Benny Black - Element Bar Phat Tracta - Toormina Hotel

5TH AUGUST Marshall Okell Band - Hoey Moey Peter Barry - Element Bar

8TH AUGUST Wolfgang Michael - Element Bar

9TH AUGUST Vena Klymo - Element Bar

10TH AUGUST Chris Grieve - Hoey Moey Gunshy - Seaview Tavern James Mcq - Element Bar Never Ending 80s - Sawtell RSL

Robbie & JJ Duo - Seaview Tavern Kane Muir - Element Bar Car Ramrod - Toormina Hotel

Hekyl & Jive - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar

15TH AUGUST

25TH AUGUST

12TH AUGUST

Peter Barry - Element Bar

16TH AUGUST James Ross - Element Bar The Song Keepers - Jetty Theatre

17TH AUGUST The Preatures - Hoey Moey Who’s Charlie - Seaview Tavern Mighty Ocean - Element Bar

18TH AUGUST Jaie Drieberg - Element Bar DJ Todd James - Hoey Moey Mal Eastick Duo - Seaview Tavern Around The World In 80 Days Jetty Theatre Car Ramrod - Toormina Hotel

19TH AUGUST Late For Woodstock - Hoey Moey Billie-jo Porter - Element Bar

22ND AUGUST Yhan Leal - Element Bar

11TH AUGUST

23RD AUGUST

DJ Rjay - Hoey Moey

Peter Barry - Element Bar

Proudly supported by

32 Coffs Coast focus

24TH AUGUST Phillip Skinner - Hoey Moey Misschief - Seaview Tavern Owen Shannon - Element Bar Elvis - An American Trilogy - Sawtell RSL

DJ Layne - Hoey Moey Ccr Show - Moonee Tavern Little King & DJ Lotek Hifi Seaview Tavern Benny Black - Element Bar Kristen Lee Morris - 63 First Ave Thorazoo - Toormina Hotel

26TH AUGUST Benny Black Band & Who’s Charlie - Hoey Moey Aqwa - Element Bar

29TH AUGUST Pablo Blitzer - Element Bar

30TH AUGUST 360 - Hoey Moey Aqwa - Element Bar

31ST AUGUST Aqwa Duo - Hoey Moey Hekyl & Jive - Seaview Tavern Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar A Life: Mt, Friendlyjordies - Jetty Theatre

taste & talk sessions beers. food. a good yarn.

thursday 16 august limited tickets | 380 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty | 6651 6655 | Coffs Coast focus 33 47 Coffs

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Cheese Making Workshop Photographer - Jay from The Trees Photography

Cheese Making Workshop

Marine, Kirsten, Sheryl, Leah

Natalie, Francesca, Rochelle

Rikki, Jodie, Madonna

Eve, Hilary

Sarvi, Glenn, Angela

Jacqui Bradley and Markell Hughes

Social /Scene

Photographer - Jay from The Trees Photography

Lyndall, Leah, Kirsten, Mel

We have really blasted into winter now! We can’t exactly build a snowman yet, but it actually got down to four degrees the other morning, so it must be freezing over somewhere!

t absolutely never ceases to amaze me though, when I see the tourists walk past the store with jumpers, big coats and woolly hats on, but on their feet (no word of a lie) are THONGS! I suppose they are of the mindset that they are on holiday and this is sunny Sawtell after all … Ha Ha!

We certainly had a few tasting dishes, and their product is definitely authentic curry cooking without all the hard work! Looking forward to welcoming them up here when they expand their business! That is what we are all about here on the Coffs Coast - a thriving country and coastal town rolled into one!

honeycomb!

The annual Chilli Festival was once again a huge success. There was a massive chance that it might pour down, but Mother Nature was just toying with us all! Out came the sun, and the weather was nothing short of amazing all day. One of the biggest crowds ever turned out to enjoy the festival. There was plenty of entertainment for young and old, with tantalising chilli dishes and spicy sensations to tempt us on the day. Lots of businesses get the opportunity to showcase their products at these types of festivals and markets.

A huge thank you to all the organisers who help make the Chilli Festival day a massive success!

Lyndall was kept busy signing copies of the latest edition of the Cheese Making Workshop, which features updated photography, fresh styling and a cloth-bound cover. It teaches the start-to finish method for more than 20 cheese types, with recipes to showcase their uniqueness. Cheeses such as blue vein, bocconcini, camembert, cheddar, marscapone, halloumi, feta, quark, ricotta, edam, double brie and paneer, as well as butter and Greek yogurt. All I can say is … delicious! A great night to celebrate the success of another of our local businesses.

As I have mentioned before, many visitors get tempted to move up to our beautiful Coffs Coast and expand or start a new business here. Two of the business owners that were at the Chilli Festival for the first time were Pete and Nicole Bamford from Saucy Spice Co. They mentioned that they have never been to a market to promote their business like the Chilli Festival at Sawtell, and done so well! Their product comes in brightly coloured packets, which are easy to prepare one pot meals designed to feed six people. These hand blended spicy specialties create delicious dishes which are gluten and preservative free. 34 Coffs Coast focus

FOCUS attended an event at the Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently. We were there to celebrate the Cheesemaking Workshop international book launch. It was a night filled with great company and terrific food. Lyndall Dykes’ book, The Cheesemaking Workshop is now in its third edition. For the first time the book is heading behond our shores, to the UK, US and New Zealand. Lyndall, known as the “Cheese Lady” by her many Coffs fans, and her daughter Melanie Browne, who has been instrumental in exponentially expanding The Cheesemaking Workshop and Deli, treated their guests to a six metre long grazing table on the night. Absolutely delicious, I might add! (Cheese for all the FOCUS family is a favourite YUM!) It was piled high with an assortment of home-made and international cheeses. To complement this was their own baked breads and a show stopping cheese tower with a huge wheel of brie topped with delicious local

Guests included close friends, supporters and customers who have accompanied Lyndall on her cheese making journey over decades,including long-time friend Margie Ford, Tanya Watts, dedicated fan Luella Rees, as well as Stephen Saunders and Robyn Simon.

I would like to take the opportunity to send out a special mention to a well-loved local Sawtell couple who renewed their vows just recently on the pictureseque Sawtell Beach. Congratulations to Tracey and Pa Adams - married for 25 years and still in love. FOCUS attended the new Quadrant Travel and Journeys Office launch, which was shared by valued clients and friends. Quadrant Travel and Journeys opened an office in Coffs Harbour nearly seven years ago to expand the Quadrant

brand and develop a presence in Coffs Harbour. Operations Manager Kerry Moss said, “We identified that there was a need to offer personalised, tailor-made travel services to this region. In discussion with John Rafferty, CEO of the C.ex Group, we developed the idea of offering competitive and personalised service to the C.ex members and the wider Coffs Harbour community, which to our delight has been a real success. “Since then we have continued to strengthen our relationship with the C.ex Group, with our first office opening inside the C.ex Coffs in 2011. Our relationship with the C.ex Group has been pivotal to the success of our business and allowed us to grow, resulting in the launch of our new business location. The opening of the new office will continue to complement the Quadrant offices in Armidale and Brisbane. The Coffs Harbour office is central to the main operations of the entire company and continues to be the hub for the management of the company’s travel services, including retail travel, Ag Tours and Inbound Tours.” Big celebrations for exciting times! Congratulations Kerry Moss! This column was a lot about celebrating existing local success stories and welcoming new businesses and enjoying life’s milestones. Here is to ... Being positive and enjoying what you do!

Carole, Le Dain Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂƒIN DESIGNS

Kerry Moss and Sam Dawson

Barb and Harry Crowley and Wayne Edwards

Dennis and Marie Ryan with Desna Kerr and Merv Orr

Glen Chapman, Graeme Moss, Scott Perkins and Bryan Johnston

Brian and Kathy Mortimer

Kevin Kane, Joseph Majambere, Paul Bradley and Graeme Mitchell

Annette Penfold, Owen Purdon and Kerry Moss

John Rafferty, Kerry Moss, Graeme Mitchell

Sharon Walker, Emily Brett and Ruth Varga

Danny, Barbara

Satell Chilli Festival

Ian McManus - The Saucy Spicy Company

Craig and Kathryn Black

Peter Bamford, Angus Carvalho

Tracey and Pa Adams

Leanne, Matt, Di

Coffs Coast focus 35

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY 13 JULY – 8 SEPTEMBER 2018 ALL WELCOME, FREE ENTRY

DAVID FAIRBAIRN: DRAWN TO PRINT An exhibition of David Fairbairn’s large scale portraiture. From the etched line, the face and personality of each subject is revealed. David Fairbairn \ Large Head G.E No.1 2016

ALEPH GEDDIS: HARD/SOFT 2018 The sculptural works of Aleph Geddis live at the intersection of traditional methods and geometric forms, informed by the carving techniques of his origins in the Pacific Northwest (USA).

D E R E W O P R E SUP O T E V I T A E R C E G R A H C R E SUP S S E N I S U B R U YO CUSS YOUR DESIGN, WEB

CALL US TO DIS NEEDS u AND MARKETING sasocreative.com.a

6658 7666

Courtesy of www.alephgeddis.com

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY OPEN TUESDAY–SATURDAY 10AM–4PM FREE ADMISSION WINNER 2016

WINNER 2015

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WINNER 2016

CNR COFF & DUKE STREETS \ COFFS HARBOUR  02 6648 4863  coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/gallery  facebook.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is a cultural facility of Coffs Harbour City Council

focus_travel W I T H K E R R Y M O S S F R O M Q U A D R A N T T R A V E L

Australian Farming Tours Have you ever wanted to explore Australia from a different perspective? Get off the beaten track and meet the salt-of-the-earth Aussies? Local tour company Quadrant Australia is offering FOCUS readers the chance to have that experience on their Farming Tours in Australia. The Western Australian Spring Farming Tour departs in September and will take travellers along the spectacular coastline, exploring amazing rock formations, long sandy beaches, great food and wine and the lion’s share of native flora. Add to that, rich agricultural farmland and innovative farmers, including the Benedictine monks in Australia’s only monastery town, and you have all the ingredients for a wonderful experience. If you have always wanted to visit South Australia, then the Best of South Australia including Kangaroo Island is a remarkable tour that will take you from Adelaide to the Flinders Ranges and back to the Clare and Barossa Valleys, then on to Kangaroo Island

via the Murray Region and Fleurieu Peninsula. During the journey you will visit a wide variety of agricultural enterprises that showcase how innovation has enabled farmers in the driest state on the driest continent to survive and prosper. There’s time to explore the Flinders Ranges, stay overnight at Bungaree Station, one of Australia’s iconic Merino sheep studs, and enjoy the superb food and wine of the Barossa and Clare regions. The tour will be crowned by three nights on Kangaroo Island, where boutique farming enterprise co-exists with pristine wilderness, natural beauty and amazing wildlife. The always popular Best of Tasmania tour includes some of the island’s spectacular natural sights, but also includes visits which highlight the clean and green farming practices that have made Tasmania the envy of the farming world. Drop in to see the friendly local team at Quadrant Travel and Journeys in Harbour Drive to find out more.

Travelling in Retirement. You’ve worked hard your entire life; you deserve to enjoy your retirement. With the right planning and budget, you can still enjoy the joys of travel. We asked our travel writer, Kerry Moss, to tell us some of her best tips for travelling in retirement. Choose your timing

to your club that you start travelling together.

One of the joys of not having to be back at

You don’t have to go far, to go far

work or fit within the school holidays is that

Travel for a different view, a different

you can travel outside of peak times. Airfares,

perspective, to learn from others and

hotels, touring and even tourist attractions all

appreciate life. It doesn’t matter how far you

offer different rates at different times of the

go, as long as you go. If you’re on a tighter

year. If you plan it and can travel outside of the

budget or your health is preventing you from

peak periods, then the savings can be huge,

going too far from home, then travel in your

and the crowds are

own backyard. There are

often less. It’s a win-win.

plenty of options available

Talk to the experts

within a day or two that

Even if you have the time to plan it yourself, a visit to your travel agent is a smart investment. Travel agents are trained professionals who live and breathe travel. They can offer advice about your destination

Research conﬁrms it. Travelling in your later years is good for you. Those who travel tend to be more happy and active. It’s linked to boosting physical, cognitive and social health in seniors.

will refresh you, recharge you and remind you that things don’t have to break the bank. Protect yourself Travel Insurance is a necessary cost of travel. Whilst it does add cost to your trip, it protects you

and also have access to

from unknown situations

exclusive deals that can

and unexpected situations. There are a number of

include free nights, free inclusions or discounted seniors’ or veterans’

travel insurance companies that specialise in

rates. Travel agents will work with you, so you

travel insurance for seniors and as the saying

can still be involved in all the decisions, but

goes, “If you cant afford travel insurance, then

take advantage of their knowledge and access

you can’t afford to travel”.

to better prices.

There are more benefits than you’ll ever

Join a club

know

Whether you are a golfer, a gardener, a knitter

Research confirms it. Travelling in your later

or a traveller, there is a community club for

years is good for you. Those who travel tend

you. Meetings are held regularly and because

to be more happy and active. It’s linked to

you share a common interest, conversations

boosting physical, cognitive and social health in

flow freely. Often these clubs are the starting

seniors. It helps keep you connected with old

point for the idea of travelling together. Maybe

and new friends and with a new experience

you’ll make a new friend who is interested in

every day, you’re engaged and stimulated. No

travelling with you, or maybe the entire group

doubt that travelling in the later years helps

will have something planned. If you’re a natural

promote healthy ageing, so what are you

organiser, you could even make the suggestion

waiting for … Get on board! Coffs Coast focus 37

explore

T H E

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V A L L E Y

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W I T H TA N J A A C K E R M A N

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Sculpture in the Gaol. Sculpture in the Gaol is a public art exhibition in a location like no other. Hosted by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and South West Rocks Chamber of Commerce at the historic Trial Bay Gaol in South West Rocks, the stone building provides an impressive backdrop for the artworks.

Wild Girl

The gaol first opened in 1886, after 13 years of construction by prison labourers. During World War I, the building became a German Internment Camp and this year marks the 100th anniversary of the closure of the camp following the end of war.

wasp.

and the

The sculpture exhibition features over 80 works by professional and hobbyist sculptors from all over NSW. There are also numerous environmentally-themed group installations by local school works: natural or cultural heritage.

SCOTTS HEAD - OCEAN STREET DINER

Wildgirl and the Wasp arrived at the spectacular Scotts Head NSW after a chilly three-degree Celsius ride through quiet winding roads.

cotts Head is a coastal village in the Nambucca Shire located at the southern end of the Gaagal Wanggaan National Park. Stunning tranquil beaches with excellent surf breaks, swimming and fishing spots.

and spinach. Wildgirl likes to keep it fresh.

Wildgirl parked Wasp her 650 cc companion at Little Beach, Scotts Head. After a short walk up the track to Elephant Head, Wildgirl enjoyed superb ocean views. Four majestic Humpback Whales were spotted frolicking, breaching and tail slapping on their annual migration along the Mid North Coast of NSW. The water giants glistened in the sun as their backs broke the surface in a wonderous display of elegance and grace. Awe inspiring sight.

With a full belly, Wildgirl walked to the Main

Continuing along the pristine Little Beach across squeaky clean sand, Wildgirl walked into the village. Ocean Street Diner was the restaurant of choice, being close to the beach. Inside was warm with a funky vibe, great music and an intriguing display of ornaments and curios. After riding Wasp through a three-degree morning, Wildgirl was keen to try her signature drink, The Turmeric Latte (on almond milk). Smooth, tasty, flavoursome and warm, scoring a 10/10 - the perfect winter warmer and healthy immune boost. This was followed by an inviting “Breakfast Brioche Burger” using local free-range eggs

The official opening is on Sunday 5 August 2018 with a gala event, featuring delicious local food

stalls, coffee, arts and craft and entertainment for the kids. The exhibition then runs until Saturday 1 September 2018, with the gaol open from 9am to 4:30pm daily. This popular event attracts over 5,000 visitors to Trial Bay Gaol each year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for artists to reach a broad audience. Visitors to the exhibition are invited to vote for their favourite artworks, with winners announced at the exhibition closing celebration at the Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks on 1st September. Throughout the month of August, visitors to the Gaol will not only enjoy the amazing array of sculptures on display, they can learn about the fascinating history of the location, including tales of attempted escapes by prisoners. Gala Day: $2 per person otherwise usual fees apply ($11 adults, $8 children over 5 and seniors; $30 families).

The homemade Diner tomato relish topped off a wonderful breakfast experience in Scotts Head. The food was excellent, complete with friendly, attentive staff and the music of Joni Mitchel, Bob Dylan and Don McLean. Beach, which is just a short stroll from the Diner; the north facing crescent shaped arc of sand was beyond measure, Sounds of the ocean landed on her ears; the sea was singing a symphony. The pulsing water was a vibrant turquoise blue, vast and clear. Cylinders of light moved across the waves. A harmonious ebbing tide softly doused the shore. Wildgirl climbed the stairs and made her way around surf club headland. The path was easy to follow. The view was profound. The horizon appeared to be stitched with a line of pure blue thread. A pod of dolphins entertained and swam playfully around the headland. Whales, dolphins, sea birds and a Green Sea Turtle - Scotts Head does not disappoint. It was a difficult place to leave. After returning to Wasp at Little Beach, it was time to head for the hills through Yarriabini National Park. Cruising along smooth bends and lush green scenery, Wildgirl rode the back roads to Nambucca Heads, loving life on two wheels. www.wildgirlandthewasp.com Coffs Coast focus 39

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Galleria S H O P

E A T

R E L A X

BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO NAMBUCCA’S HEART IS GALLERIA SHOP, EAT, RELAX. FOCUS caught up with owner/creator Aurora Parkill to learn more about her concept and the unique experiences that are oﬀer at this fab new venue.

ou may have noticed a new landmark on Nambucca’s retail landscape, Galleria Shop Eat Relax. The creation of Sydney entrepreneur Aurora Parkhill, Galleria has given the old Guardian News building a new lease on life, transforming the two-storey space into a coffee shop and a beautiful store retailing fashion clothing, homewares and a baby boutique downstairs and a wellness and vitality treatment centre above. “Everyday people say thank you for opening,” explains Aurora. Moving to Nambucca in the past year, Aurora has forged a strong career running successful retail and hospitality businesses in Sydney. This entrepreneur can see the area’s potential and has put her “money where her mouth is”, buying property and understanding the value in re-vitalising the main shopping precinct to draw in visitors and business. “Many people don’t realise the variety of shopping and services here in Nambucca. There’s so much to do and see here,” says Aurora. Aurora’s latest investment is a boost of confidence to the business strip, employing 15 staff, supporting local producers and attracting visitors from around the region. And the accolades are already rolling in. Coffee Shop Galleria make delicious and nourishing light meals and sweet treats daily utilising local indigenous herbs and produce. We offer foods friendly for those with food intolerances, gluten free and of course, vegetarian and vegan options. We use unbleached and organic flours in our baking, like our fresh muffins. Offering healthy, allergy friendly food options in

the Nambucca main strip has proven very popular with the locals and visitors to the region. We can make cakes to order and we have prepared take home meals in the fridge - good to go, along with salads and light meals for lunch on the run, or sit down and relax in the café. “Most people have no idea about the amazing growers in the Nambucca Valley; even when I go to the growers’ markets and fall in love with a stand and its produce, I ask, ‘Where are you from?’ Eight out of ten times it is from within the Nambucca area. “One of my best suppliers is chef turned grower Luke Tutt from Nambucca Valley Aquaponics; it is always amazing quality and picked that morning. You can’t get better than that!” Vitality Spa - Effortless Wellness The spa boasts cutting edge science based practitioners and equipment. We researched for three years for the best equipment on the market and are so proud to bring to Nambucca and the Coffs region our state of the art Infrared Sauna and the Airpod (Mild hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy). Infrared Sauna Infrared sauna treatments may be available at different levels: near, middle, and far. These different levels represent the different sizes in infrared wavelengths and refer to the intensity of the treatment. Most people find that: • near-infrared levels are best for wound healing and increased immune function • middle-infrared levels are ideal for increasing circulation and promoting muscle relaxation • far-infrared levels are used primarily for detoxification purposes. Some of the benefits Infrared Sauna Therapy are: Detoxification, relaxation, pain relief, weight

loss, improved circulation, anti-ageing and skin purification. Airpod (Mild hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) Airpod assists people achieve and maintain improved health through pressurised oxygen therapy. In the past, hyperbaric chambers were exclusive to hospitals and medical practices. This complementary therapy has now been revolutionised through lower, non-medical pressure settings up to 1.35 atm. The Airpod is a safe, contemporary capsule designed to provide oxygen enriched wellbeing, healing and repair. Some of the benefits include: muscle recovery, reduces swelling, anti-ageing, skin rejuvenation, reduces fatigue, stress relief, increased metabolism, improves your immune system. PRACTITIONERS Our practitioners deliver a range of services to assist you realise your health outcomes; they include: Diane Carter - Acupuncturist Diane has a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine) and is Chinese Medicine Registration Board Certified and is accredited in Facial Renewal Acupuncture, Esoteric Acupuncture, Meridian Massage. Diane draws on her 20 years of experience as a therapist in the field of Natural Health. She utilises the traditions of Oriental Medicine, Japanese Acupuncture, Nutrition and Energetic Healing to facilitate people to become the best they can be. Japanese acupuncture is a gentle and painless way to revitalise the energy throughout the body and heighten your wellness potential. Fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, acute and chronic pain, digestive and emotion issues can all benefit from this ancient yet effective therapy.

Leesa Constantine - Naturopath Leesa is a qualified naturopath and energy medicine practitioner. Leesa is a proficient naturopath, energy medicine practitioner, NLP health coach and Biophoton Specialist. With over 30 years’ experience in holistic medicine, her approach is to see you as an individual, to support your health and wellbeing and help you stay on track. With a commitment to continually learning cutting edge technologies, she travels extensively attending conferences, retreats and workshops around the world. Beth Spriggs - Qualified Naturopath and Massage Therapist Beth has both an Advanced Diploma Nutrition and Advanced Diploma Naturopathy. She offers a range of services, including relaxing aromatherapy massage, remedial massage for specific areas of the body and associated ailments. Beth offers lymphatic drainage massage for cancer survivors, as well as nutrition and wellbeing consultation for holistic health care. More about Galleria Shop Eat Relax: In the building’s design, special care was taken to accommodate people with mobility issues, including a mobility ramp, large disability toilet and even a motorised stairlift to access the upstairs spa area. Recent ill-health has made Aurora assess her diet and lifestyle, and this is reflected in her offerings on the menu. Many of the food offerings are organic, gluten free or grain free. “We wanted a place that people with food intolerances could still enjoy quality meal.” Apart from relaxed ladies fashion and sophisticated homewares, the new space also boasts a large range of baby and children’s clothing. Galleria provides unique offerings not replicated elsewhere, with new stock in every week. Coffs Coast focus 41

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Beatties. quality furniture

Beatties Furniture has a long history in the business and community landscape in Nambucca. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH MICHAEL BEATTIE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THIS FAMILY OWNED STORE and some of his insights about Nambucca.

eatties Furniture has a long history in the Nambucca Valley. How long has the store been open? We have been trading for 35 years. In 1983 my parents, Elizabeth and Alan Beattie, sold their wheat sheep property at Parkes and with their family moved to Nambucca Heads to establish “Beattie’s Furniture & Manchester” with their daughter, Joanne. They always had a passion for quality furniture, and starting their own business allowed them to fulfil that passion. Their strong values of honesty and “helping your neighbours” have come through the family owned business, where we strive to offer you professional advice and service on all of your furniture needs. They have since retired to Sapphire Beach, and now I run the business with the same passion as my parents. What changes have happened with the business and in store since then? The business started in the main street of Nambucca Heads in a small store, with only 140 square metres of floor space. Twelve months later with the business growing, Alan and Elizabeth doubled the size of the shop and rented a shed in the industrial estate. In 1986 they rented another shop two doors up, to increase the range of furniture shown on the floor. A funny story often remembered is when Alan and Elizabeth passed each other with customers going from one shop to the other and sold the same lounge twice to two different customers! During this time, they started selling curtains, which their daughter, Joanne, made. In 1988 the opportunity arose for them to buy a large block in the industrial estate and build a purpose-built shop and storage shed for retailing furniture. When I took over the business in

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2008, I introduced roller blinds, venetian blinds and verticals, as I have THEY ARE BOTH HAPPY previously worked for a MEN AND TAKE GREAT blind company. Today we CARE WHEN DELIVERING have over, 1200 m² of FURNITURE AND WILL showroom and 400 m² of HELP BY REMOVING OLD storage. FURNITURE THAT IS Beatties is a family BEING REPLACED AND owned and run ASSEMBLING BEDS FOR business; how CUSTOMERS FREE OF important is family and CHARGE. a sense of community in many ways. Both to you? my father and I have Family is extremely been Presidents of important to me, and my the Nambucca Heads and Valla Chamber of staff are part of my “adopted family”. My good Commerce over several years, and I am still friend Christine, who runs the shop with me, and a proud member today. During my term as I are often mistaken for husband and wife due President, we saw trees planted in the main street to our good-natured bantering and joint passion of Nambucca Heads, Valla added to the chamber, for exceeding our customers’ expectations, and a large sign for all the businesses in the industrial our love for good quality furniture with style. estate and new lights for the V-wall at Nambucca Christine, who is French, has her own beautiful Heads. daughter working in London and a talented I am also chairman of a local school board, husband who is an architect and author. supporting where I can. Seeing children growing We have our own delivery men, adopted and developing through good schools and brother Darren and adopted son Alan. They passionate teachers is something I love being a are both happy men and take great care when part of. I am also involved in our local church, delivering furniture and will help by removing old where I serve as an elder. furniture that is being replaced and assembling What have been some of the significant beds for customers free of charge. changes you have seen in Nambucca over I have a lovely wife who is an architectural the years? draftsperson, a daughter, Laura who is a senior One of the amazing things about Nambucca accountant at Moore Stephens in Coffs Harbour, Heads is that it has not changed that much a son, Jono who is a chef at Fish Tales in Sawtell over the years. It is still a quiet seaside town and a young boy, Lachlan. All of the family has with no traffic lights and a relaxed and friendly at some time been involved in the business; even atmosphere. It can take me a while to go to the my youngest can be seen on a Sunday morning bank, chatting to friends and customers I meet showing customers through the showroom. along the way. We try to support our surrounding community

Our North Coast area, however, has grown dramatically around Coffs Harbour and just north of Nambucca Heads at Valla Beach. The area here is a great place to retire, with many activities, fantastic scenery and the great hub of Coffs Harbour with everything you could possibly need, including great medical facilities if required. What is your favourite thing to do or place to go in Nambucca? My favourite places to go in Nambucca are long walks on the beach, a spot of fishing and game of golf at the Nambucca Heads Island Golf Course. What is the experience of a customer coming into the store? You can expect to be surprised at the large range of quality furniture that we have on show and some of the great designs by La-z-boy and Tessa, complemented by stylish rugs and beautiful dinings. We pride ourselves on doing a different range of outdoor furniture to other retailers, made by Shelta. Have a lie down on our competitively priced mattresses by Domino and King Koil. We will even direct you to our favourite coffee shop or cafés. Thanks guys.

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Team VRE Update

Kay Harkess.

In Touch Boutique

When Kay Harkess started her boutique in the tiny coastal town of Nambucca Heads 32 years ago, she couldn’t have imagined that her small business would flourish as it has. Kay’s innate sense of style and her commitment to sourcing and curating the very best of Australian and international labels has seen In Touch Boutique through three decades of changing fashions and cemented its place in the retail landscape of the Nambucca Valley and beyond. In Touch has grown from its humble beginnings to become a favourite shopping destination with a loyal customer base, many travelling annually to re-stock their wardrobes and take advantage of Kay’s wardrobe styling services. New labels regularly appear amongst the long

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standing brands, which means there is usually something new arriving daily. The window displays are ever changing as well; keeping things interesting for passers by and loyal customers following along on social media. Service is always a huge focus - the staff all work closely with Kay to maintain a friendly and fun approach to helping customers filter through the huge array of stock, to find those looks that truly suit them and their lifestyle. There are not too many boutiques these days that operate like In Touch - it’s a family business at heart, and Kay’s loyalty and warmth are felt by her customers and staff alike. Kay is passionate about creating a comfortable and happy retail environment - a welcome point of difference in this increasingly online world.

Valla Real Estate has had a change with the departure of Chris Vincent, due to her family needs. Chris had been with Valla Real Estate for some time, becoming a part owner in 2011. But like all companies that go through change, not too much is different. The team @ Valla Real Estate has become an asset to the community, with homes and land selling for good prices due to the recent boom we have experienced. The higher prices we have brought to the community have given the area an exclusive niche on the coast. Margie, now the sole owner, has been with the business since commencement in 2004; she is Licensee, holds a Stock & Station Licence and is an Accredited Auctioneer. Glenn, a Licensed Real Estate Agent, also holds his Stock & Station Licence and is an Accredited Auctioneer. Glenn is always busy, as we all know - walking the streets looking for work and keeping his vendors and purchasers up to date. Vanessa, our little pocket rocket who stepped up to the mark with her ability to list and sell in such a short span of time, has left us for the time being for the birth of her baby. However, Vanessa is very keen to return and continue to

be a part of our amazing team. Our property manager, Jodi, has gone above and beyond for all our landlords with her professionalism and friendly manner, to be the best in the valley. Sharni, a new face to the team, brings her expertise in real estate with her. Sharni looks after our enquiries and holiday lets, as well as being an important part of administration within our team. Valla Real Estate hopes to be in your local area for years to come, with a team of experienced and focused people to help make the Nambucca Valley a well sought after part of this beautiful coastal area, with its amazing waterways. As always, Valla Real Estate strives to be the BEST, not the BIGGEST in property services in the Valla Beach and Nambucca Valley Real Estate markets.

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Photo by Magdalena

focusinterview.

Rachel

WARD

Rachel Ward, Golden Globe Award winner, actress, director, wife and mother and married to Bryan Brown, is passionate about the Nambucca Valley after being captured by its beauty and buying a farm there over 30 years ago. Rachel believes strongly in development, but with the vision of maintaining the town's unique beauty and making it inviting to retirees and the tourists ...

hat is your connection with the Nambucca Valley? I have owned a farm in the valley for 30 odd years. We have visited every school holidays and have kept 150 odd head of cattle over the years. My kids have learnt to surf at Scott’s and ride in the forests. Can you tell us about foreshore redevelopment project that you have been working on? I like to think of it as the foreshore undevelopment. Macksville and so many small towns like it have secured industrial areas and basic utility, but have ignored the aesthetic and lifestyle aspect. Many commercial dwellings were stripped of their uniquely Australian facades of balconies, verandah posts and fascias in the '60s and replaced with characterless metal boarding and an overkill of glaring corporate signage. The towns that are thriving are those that attract tourists, and they are the ones who have reinstated the visual glory of how these towns were first designed to be. Macksville, with its wide Nambucca River flowing through the centre, is an ideal spot to stop for a coffee and lunch while learning of all the unspoilt beauty that rolls out behind the town. There is a plethora of B&Bs to stay at and miles and miles of secret valleys and trips through winding forest roads - not

The Bridge

River Street

Adrian and Alisa O'Brien are both locals, went to schools in the area and love being a part of Macksville, as it has such a great community vibe. Adrian has been in the industry for over 20 years and has always had his eye on this café. The building, built in the 1880s, has so much history - owned by Greek families over the years, we are very proud to have brought an iconic building in Macksville back to life.

I LOVE COFFEE AT THE

to mention our there is still BRIDGE CAFÉ, GOING coastline. resistance to TO THE MARKETS AT Macksville has putting Council BELLINGEN, VISITING great potential, money toward THE BUFFALO FARM, but like many the aesthetic, but LUNCH ON THE RIVER other towns we there’s a real knock AT GLADSTONE - AND need to invest on effect when MY FAMILY SURFS AT further in charm, you are courting SCOTTS HEAD. greater vegetation tourism and and hospitality. retirement living. These things We have count for more than has been fantastic services for the elderly in recognised in the past 50 years. Macksville, but people want more You clearly have a great passion than services; they want a reason for your local community. What are to keep living and we should make some of your favourite things to do Macksville a town for strolling about and see in the area? in, boating, fishing and enjoying. If we I just love the authenticity of the invest in these things, more business place, and the natural, unspoilt beauty opportunities will arise to keep the of the area captured my heart when I young here and employed. first visited 30 years ago. I love the little The hotel on the river is fantastic, but farms dotted over the hills and the light we need more dining options, night and all the traditional country rituals markets, music and events. There is and establishments. a lot of hidden creativity in so many The saleyards and showgrounds and of these towns; witness the fantastic anything to do with horses rocks my murals that are popping up in town. boat. I’ve ridden all over the Utungun What are some of the other creative area and the Igalba State Forest. I love projects you have been working on? coffee at the Bridge Café, going to the I’ve just finished a film called Palm markets at Bellingen, visiting the Buffalo Beach starring Bryan Brown, Sam Farm, lunch on the river at Gladstone Neill, Greta Scacchi, Richard E Grant, and my family surfs at Scotts Head. and Jacqueline MacKenzie. It’s about There seems to be a creative hub four couples who come together to developing in the region, with a celebrate a milestone birthday and real focus on unique and boutique long held secrets and tensions unravel, experiences. Do you think the but in the end it’s a story about the highway changes will allow the enduring value of friendship. It’s out smaller towns to flourish and next autumn. redefine their identities? Thanks Rachel. It’s been a long time coming, and

Our premium coffee is from Botero in Maclean; we use the Marco Espresso Blend. We serve delicious breakfast and lunches, made with fresh, local ingredients. We also have a selection of retail products that we use in the café, such as Macamilk, Bondi Chai, Valla Macadamias, Marco Coffee, Jilly's Teas, Chasing Sundays Turkish Towels and fresh flowers by Boo & Bo’s Blooms. With catering, events, funtions and a Friday, Saturday night wine bar in the pipeline.

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Unkya Eco Tours. Embrace the serene, idyllic Wawaa (bush) and Gaagal (ocean) surroundings. Listen, learn and discover the rich culture and heritage of the Gumbaynggirr people from your local Aboriginal guide.

Lucy Fru Fru. To work where you live ... isn’t that one of the greatest dreams in life? To love living in your local community, and to share the love as part of it. That’s one of our passions, and a driving force for us recently opening our store Lucy Fru Fru in sunny Macksville. With the highway diversion complete, Macksville is free to shine like the beautiful green emerald jewel she is, nestled by the sparkling Nambucca River and the verdant hills of our valley. We want to help showcase this region, to continue to make it a destination for locals and tourists alike. We are proud of where we live and want to share it with the world. Helping to bring beauty, fashion, style and affordability to the region, we delight in being a part of it. We would love to welcome you through our doors by the river in the valley ...

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GAGAAL WANGGAAN ECO TOUR THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS FROM 9AM TO 12:30PM Learn about the delicate ecosystems within our National Park, our methods and way of life which connect us as one to the Wajaarr (earth), Biindarray (rivers) and Gaagal (ocean). Hear about our natural landscapes, the importance of preserving Jagun (country) and protecting our endangered and critically endangered species within the park traditionally. Be connected as one to the Wajaarr (earth), Biindarray (rivers) and Gaagal (ocean). The natural environment is our cultural landscape; our view is holistic; this is our food source, our medicine, our ceremony, our way of life. Listen to our local Aboriginal guides, as they share the knowledge of the Gumbaynggirr people. GURRUUJA JUUN (WHALE TAIL) TOUR DAILY DEPARTURES: 10:30AM - 1PM Embrace the serene, idyllic Wawaa (bush) and Gaagal (ocean) surroundings. Our Gurruuja Juun (Whale Tail) Tour offers a 1.5 hour walk around Scotts Head Headland and Junay Gaagal (Little Beach). Sink your toes in the sand, gaze at the Gaagal (ocean) as the waves roll in, whilst being inspired by our Aboriginal guides telling you the creation story of how the Gaagal (ocean) was made and the first wave created. Take a leisurely walk up onto the headland and take in the breathtaking view of Gaagal Wanggaan (Beach South) from the viewing platform and smell the fresh salt air. Get an insight into the Gumbaynggirr people’s deep, spiritual connection to the beautiful Dunggirr Julum (Koala Mountain), also known as Yarriabini.

The Beach House. The Beach House Providore is the longest standing business in Valla Beach - 100 plus years of history - this once home and general store is now a prominent focal point of the community, bringing a warm, welcoming environment for you to enjoy your daily coffee and a hearty breakfast or lunch. The cabinet is filled with both the naughty and nice elements, from gluten free cheesecakes and chocolate brownies to stunning healthy salads and chia pudding for those on the go - all home made on site, and you can taste the difference. The all day breakfast and lunch menu have something for everyone, from corn and black bean fritters all the way through to local fresh fish and chips in a kombucha batter. Jessica, the owner, has worked as a chef all around the world and has brought a bit of that home to Valla. The Friday and Saturday night dinner menus change weekly and run with a theme; this week is Mexican, but next week your taste buds might be travelling to Thailand. With an ideal location, a stone’s throw from the beach and right next door to a park, The Beach House Providore offers the perfect little detour off the freeway.

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Mural W A L L A C E

L A N E

Wallace Lane is now adorned with fantastic vibrant mural art by local artists, adding colour and more personality to the Macksville CBD. THE ROTARY CLUB OF MACKSVILLE HAS TAKEN ON THE ROLE OF PROJECT MANAGER FOR THESE ARTWORKS ...

he riverside town of Macksville continues its transformation into a must-stop destination for visitors to the Nambucca

Burton and a group of community artists that includes Lee Callingham, Jeff Newcombe and John Elliott. The Wallace Lane Murals project was proposed by the BAC as one of many initiatives designed to entice people Valley with the travelling on the completion of three recently completed murals in Wallace bypass to take a Lane. detour. LOCALS HAVE BEEN The first The Rotary Club STOPPING TO CHAT completed work of Macksville has WITH ARTISTS AS THEY was painted by Joe taken on the role WORK, AND VISITORS Brown, the talented of project manager. ARE REGULARLY artist and son of Wallace Lane SIGHTED TAKING SELFIES Nambucca Valley links River Street WITH THE MURALS. Council Business with its cafés, LOCAL SOCIAL MEDIA Advisory Committee picnic areas and POSTS HAVE ALSO (BAC) member views of the FEATURED PHOTOS OF Rachel Ward. beautiful river THE PAINTINGS WITH Joe’s vibrant to the retail and GLOWING PRAISE. mural has been commercial area of followed by two Wallace Street. other works, one by Rotary member Alanna Shorter and Rod Edwards said another Chris Edwards. it is expected that visitors stopping All three paintings are located on the off in River Street will be drawn by eastern side of the laneway. the artworks along Wallace Lane to Still being completed, at the southdiscover the businesses in Wallace western corner, is a work by Felice Street.

The Council is assisting with the provision of materials, but artists are volunteering their time to help the community, he said. Macksville businessman Rob McWilliam has also made available one of his plant hire scissor lift machines at no charge to allow artists to work on the higher buildings. Said Mr Edwards: “Locals have been stopping to chat with artists as they work, and visitors are regularly sighted taking selfies with the murals. "Local social media posts have also featured photos of the paintings with glowing praise.“ Other initiatives for Macksville include lighting up the old Macksville Bridge and encouraging CBD building owners to re-establish verandahs that were torn down in the 1960s. Photo: the five people pictured in a scissor lift from right to left are: Felice Ferrer-Burton, Lee Callingham, Chris Edwards, Rod Edwards - Project Manager, John Elliott. Coffs Coast focus 47

Health Wellbeing focushealth

and

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

The BUZZ on MEN’S STYLING This year men’s styling has been all about revived classic retro looks paired with some facial hair - and say goodbye to the messy unkept look. Men, wanting a new look but not sure where to start? Lauren from Living Doll has a few helpful hints for you.

ow can I ask my stylists for the haircut I want? Bringing a picture is the best way to get exactly the haircut you want. Of

What if I know what I want, but can’t explain it? Getting the perfect haircut is surprisingly difficult, especially if you’re trying out a new stylist. Getting the perfect cut is simply knowing the right lingo. The process here is pretty simple: course, you’re going to have to start with a • Tell the stylist the general style you want hairstyle that works for you, but the Living • Tell them exactly how Doll Stylists can adapt a much you want taken style that best suits you. off How can I style my • Tell them if you want a hair at home? Ask taper or not Living Doll Premier your stylist about hair • Tell them the type of Stylists are not just products and styling neckline you want for ladies; we have a techniques. • Tell them if you want loyal following of men texture We’ve all been there. we like to call our • Tell them how you You look great leaving #LDKINGS ... want your sideburns the hairdressers, soaking Living Doll Premier up compliments for the Stylists are not just evening. Then the next for ladies; we have a morning you shower, air dry hair, don’t use loyal following of men we like to call our product and it’s just not the same. How to #LDKINGS. When they enter the salon, they fix the problem? Simple! Watch how your are welcomed and offered a café beverage, stylist applies the product to your hair and followed by a relaxing and rejuvenating works it through. It’s your own personal head massage in one of our shiatsu massage demonstration, as your stylist is a wealth chairs and then finally treated to an on-trend of knowledge, so make the most of the haircut, where they leave feeling like a KING. opportunity. You could be surprised by what Come and see a Living Doll Premier Stylists today. XO Dolls (and KINGS). you learn. 48 Coffs Coast focus

WITH NEXUS HUMAN SERVICES

The POSITIVE IMPACTS EMPLOYMENT has on people living with a PHYSICAL OR MENTAL DISABILITY.

an you tell me a little bit about the positive impacts you’re seeing with jobseekers once they’re placed in stable employment?

What different resources are available within the local community?

If you’ve found you simply can’t overcome your barriers on your own, please contact us, as we are here to help you and together we can learn about the resources and support The positive impacts can be potentially life available to you. As your employment provider, changing. we can also provide a well-coordinated, overall support system For people living with to help you find training, a disability, finding counselling, basic needs stable and most assistance, help to find a importantly suitable job, and with continued For people living with a employment where support in the workplace disability, finding stable the emphasis is on and at home. and most importantly their strengths rather than their weaknesses gives them a sense of belonging, self-worth and of course, financial independence.

suitable employment where the emphasis is on their strengths rather than their weaknesses gives them a sense of belonging, self-worth and of course, financial independence.

We often see a dramatic improvement in the mental and physical health of people, not only once they’ve gained employment, but throughout the whole process. I personally think this comes down to simply being supported every step of the way.

So exactly how do you define “disability” and who can utilise the services of a Disability Employment Agency? We don’t define disability here, and suggest anyone struggling mentally, physically or emotionally who thinks this is holding them back from where they’d like to be to reach out as soon as possible.

If you are struggling with more than one barrier, you may need to connect with different resources to help with each barrier.

Can you run us through the process jobseekers should take to registering and getting on track to transforming their lives? Due to recent changes, from the 1st July 2018 you will need to call 1800 163 987. We understand making a simple phone call isn’t always that simple, so feel free to contact us if you have any issues. How can we find more information on the benefits? You can simply pop in to Nexus Human Services at 4/40 Little Street, Coffs Harbour or give us a call on 1800 163 987. We have two hands; one to help ourselves, one to help others.

FOCUS distributes 21,000 copies every month across the Coffs Coast via our home delivery and direct to businesses. If you happen to miss out on one at home, or are visiting from out of town, then please visit one of our outlets by the 10th of the month to grab your free copy. OUR OUTLETS • Regional Conservatorium • Edegrees at Park Beach Plaza • Coffs Central • Muffin Break at Toormina Gardens • Le Dain Designs • Hyde Cafe in Bellingen • Bellingen VIC • Element Bar • The Promenade • Hoey Moey

• Nourished Earth, Moonee Beach Shopping Centre • Galleria, Nambucca Heads • Jetty Memorial Theatre • Karangi Shop • Coramba Store • Two Tails Wines • Big Garden Furniture, Woolgoolga • Mullaway General Store • Bluebottles, Woolgoolga

Living Doll. A game-changing in-salon hair dye technique that gives you highlights in less than an hour thanks to a lightening cream with a NEW formula and a genius heated hair iron that cuts out the usual dye development time. Here’s the deal - it won’t replace your full head of highlights (because the whole point is not to take an entire day), but if an A-list worth natural looking balayage is your thing, and spending hours sitting in a hairdresser’s chair is not appealing, then this is for you. Why? Because it has the same lightening effect as regular highlights, but in an express time limit. How does it work? First step, choose your look from the options: 1. InstaContouring - 5-10 face framing pieces. 2. Instalights - 10-15 woven highlights all over your head. 3. Instarevive - up to 15 pieces give a grown out balayage a good old refresh. Lastly, the Instant Highlights heated iron is run gently over each foil section for 15 - 30 seconds. Yup, we said seconds. And you’re done! Sounds like this is going to damage my hair ... Actually, no. The speedy service does involve heat; however, the iron is always at set temperature, which is actually cooler than most hair straighteners. Add to that a Smartbond-enriched cream formula that works to strengthen and protect your hair, and you’re as damage free as you can get when dyeing your hair. Think about it - leaving foils on for hours to develop, or using a heated iron for 15 seconds? We know which one sounds better to us and how valuable your time is. The Premier Stylists at Living Doll are blown away by the effects they are achieving; come in and give it a try. XO Dolls.

FOCUS can also be found at selected hotels, resorts and motels on the Coffs Coast. Missed a copy?

You can find EVERY edition of FOCUS online on our bookshelf at www.issuu.com/focus.mag

OUR REACH

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focusﬁtness

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 inspirational ﬁtness story comes to us courtesy of Julie Schultz, who is a mother and grandmother that has ﬁnally focused time on her own health and wellbeing, now that her children have grown up.

imone Saunders, the local Healthy Inspirations Weight Loss and Wellness Coaching Manager, has known Julie for some time - but it wasn’t until she ran into Julie at the shops that her journey to regaining her happy healthy self began ... A chance meeting with Simone and some encouraging words from her led me to Healthy Inspirations at Toormina. I had been struggling with my weight for about 10 years; I had tried many, many diets and nothing seemed to work. I had always been healthy, athletic and never overweight, but after a foot operation and some continuing health issues. my weight started to creep up until I was around 20 kilos heavier than I had ever been. The hardest thing for me was to walk in and ask for help. Simone has been my absolute rock; she has guided me, encouraged me and never once made me feel ashamed even on the few occasions I put a little weight back on. Her mentoring has been invaluable, not only with the food side of things, but she also encouraged me to get back into exercise. I have now lost over 15 kilos and am feeling the best I have felt in years. To me this is not a diet, but a way of life. The Healthy Inspirations plan is easy to follow, easy to shop for, easy to prepare and most of all, easy to maintain. Healthy Inspirations has not only helped me but has had a positive effect on my whole family. We now look at our meals in a whole new light, instead of looking for the quick meals and takeaway, which are often

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unhealthy, my family has changed our focus to wholesome, unprocessed fresh foods. The Healthy Inspirations meal plans and recipes make this change easy to achieve. My advice to anyone struggling to lose weight or just to get healthier is … do it for yourself, picture yourself how you want to look and don’t let others sabotage you. It is OK to say no to the foods that are not good for you. Your body is your machine; if you put the wrong fuel in it, it will not function properly. Lastly, make yourself accountable to someone else. Enlist the help of a mentor like Simone. Now that I have achieved my weight loss goal, I am looking forward to my next goal of increasing my fitness level and regaining the muscle lost over the years. Thank you, Simone; I could not have done this without your support. I can now look in the mirror and not hate the person looking back at me. Simone said that “now Julie has reached her goal weight, together we will monitor and maintain her weight with weekly accountability meetings to keep her on track. Julie’s next step is to focus on her fitness, and she will now start weekly one on one personal training sessions at Coffs Coast Health Club”. Thanks for sharing, Julie, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story with the Super Simone, call her directly on 0402 202 864 or drop in to see the team at either Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee, to get started today. More Inspirational Fitness Stories can be found at www.myfitnessstory.com.au

focus_contributor

WITH NOURISHED EARTH

You might be surprised to learn that an estimated 15 - 20% of headaches actually come from the neck, and not from the head. A neck headache (also called a cervicogenic headache) results when your nervous system gets a bit confused.

he upper three cervical spinal nerves share the same pathway to the brain as the nerve that carries messages from your face to your brain. So sometimes the pain in your neck is misunderstood and the brain “feels” as though the pain is coming from the head. Leading local Physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker shares all the information you need to know about getting some relief from these types of headaches. What causes a neck headache? This type of headache can originate from dysfunction in the neck joints, muscles, the vertebrae or the spinal covering; so the possible causes are many and varied. The most common cause is dysfunction in the upper three neck joints. Headaches can result if these joints are too stiff or locked into an abnormal position due to poor posture. Too much joint movement is also a problem, so you can get a headache if your neck muscles are weak, allowing the joints to move with less support and control. The neck and shoulder blade muscles that originate in your neck can also cause headaches if they become overworked, knotted or go into spasm. A fall, sports injury, whiplash or arthritis may also lead to a neck headache. What are the symptoms? Most commonly these headaches feel like they are radiating from the base of your skull to the front of your head. Normally the pain will be worse on one side of your head or face. One sign of a neck headache is pain triggered by sudden movement of your neck, such as when you sneeze. Another is that you get a headache when your neck remains in the same position for some time, such as sleeping on your stomach with your head turned to one side. Frequently neck headaches are accompanied by tenderness at the top of the neck or base of the skull. However,

you can experience a neck headache even if your neck isn’t sore, which is why these headaches are often misdiagnosed as a migraine or a cluster headache. How is it diagnosed? A thorough examination by a physiotherapist is usually the best way to diagnose cervicogenic headache. You can experience a neck headache with or without abnormalities showing up in a scan or X-ray. So, a physical examination is the best place the start. In some cases an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be needed to identify the precise structural cause of your neck headache, but this is much less common and rarely recommended as the first port of call. How do you treat neck headache? The good news about neck headache is that relief is often immediate, once diagnosed and treated correctly. The specific treatment will depend upon the source of the problem. Stiff neck joints may need to be treated using gentle joint mobilisation techniques. Hypermobile joints may require deep neck muscle strengthening exercises to support and control joint movement. Stretching, massage or dry needling may be used to relax tight or over active muscles, while weaker muscles usually require specific strengthening exercises. Your physiotherapist will work with you to determine a program of stretches, massage, joint mobilisation and exercise that will alleviate the problem with your neck … and ultimately will relieve the pain in your head. If you suspect that you might be suffering from a neck headache, then book a FREE Physio Assessment with one of Mid North Coast Physio’s friendly physiotherapists. Find out if they can help without spending a cent. Call 1300 273 747 to secure an appointment in Woolgoolga, Moonee, Toormina or Urunga.

nutrient rich fruit & veggies! No matter what your age, your daily food choices can make a huge difference in your overall health and in how you feel and look.

ating a healthy, balanced diet bodies function, and how we feel. Very fresh and provides the nutrients your body organic broccoli is best. needs to keep your bones, organs, Raspberries heart, brain and muscles in Packed with nutrients, including antioxidants optimum shape. and B vitamins, raspberries are an all-round These nutrients include fats, carbohydrates, boost to your health. Rich red berries are the protein, vitamins and minerals. Including nutrient best to strengthen your immune system, prevent dense foods into your daily diet may also help infections and improve eye health. you maintain a healthy weight, boost your heart Wild blueberries health, prevent illness and improve your brain Another berry positively bursting with function. nutrients is the beautiful, dusky blueberry. Wild Zucchini blueberries are a wellGood for the heart, known health booster, great for weight loss and containing a cocktail of boost for healthy eyes, essential nutrients, from Including nutrient teeth and bones, zucchini zinc, copper, vitamins and dense foods into your is first up on our list. It’s a iron, to a hearty dose of daily diet may also help great source of vitamins the powerful antioxidant you maintain a healthy C and A, which help to weight, boost your heart anthocyanin. boost the immune system health, prevent illness Kale and guard vision. and improve your brain Nutrient rich kale, which Kiwi fruit function. Full of fibre, along with other leafy antioxidants, vitamins greens such as spinach and minerals, kiwis is a great source of fibre, claim a catalogue of vitamin C, omega-3 and health benefits, including reducing the risk of -6 fatty acids and antioxidants. Kale is a real heart disease and respiratory problems. Weight nutritional powerhouse, great for the immune for weight kiwis contain more vitamin C than system, an excellent anti-inflammatory, and with oranges, making them a very easy way to get its rich source of nutrients, it’s sure to give your your recommended daily allowance. skin, nails and hair the boost that will get you Tomatoes glowing! Tomatoes come in many shapes, colours and Celery sizes. We love them for their aroma, taste and The health benefits of celery are due to the their nutrient dense fruits, which include vitamins excellent sources of beneficial enzymes and A, C and E, anti-inflammatory flavonoids and antioxidants. Celery is loaded with essential potassium. They are also full of lycopene, which minerals and vitamins such as folate, potassium, may help to aid in health. Smaller, red tomatoes vitamin B6, vitamin C and vitamin K. contain the highest concentration of lycopene. Apples Broccoli As it has been said for generations “ An apple Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that along a day keeps the doctor away”. with others such as cauliflower and cabbage is This fabulous fruit is abundant in fibre, high known to contain compounds that help to inhibit in antioxidants, flavonoids and packed full of cancerous cells. Folate, fibre, calcium, vitamins A and C - all of these work to improve how our Vitamin C to keep you healthy this winter. Coffs Coast focus 51

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with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

August 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

It is an exciting time for you and you need to be focused positively, yet you may have taken on someone else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY! Clear Quartz is a wonderful amplifier.

Reconnect with your talent in teaching people. You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet you’re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive. Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides, did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things? Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You may be feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any “hasty” decisions. Soon you will notice personal change and higher self-esteem. Good luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more and try to have no expectations GOOD or BAD of your relationship. Citrine shatters negative energy.

You have been experiencing high levels of energy lately, which has led to the discovery of new talents. Congratulations! These new talents need to be honoured, so enjoy that typical “CANCERIAN” luck. Go have fun and play. Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

Your judgment is hurting you at the moment. Listen to your inner voice, as you know your own answer. Others’ opinions are serving to confuse you further, and you are still not hearing what you want to hear. Like yourself enough to listen to you. Turquoise gives self-confidence a boost.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Re-connect with passion for what you are doing. You feel like you’re running on “auto-pilot” achieving goals, but to no satisfaction. Try making the most out of every breath. As you inhale, think happy. Try keeping a gratitude diary (three things daily you’re grateful for) for a month. Ruby reignites passion.

If only you knew your worth! JUDGMENT is your major hurdle at present. You may be self-doubting, and this is likely to affect relationships. Avoid major decisions until you are feeling a little more positive about yourself. Orange Calcite washes away self-doubt.

You’re always searching for and chasing “that dream”. This is not a bad thing, if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the “you” you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness. Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change. You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your newfound qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt. Turquoise is great for self-validation.

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction.As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension. Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

You may be confused by choice at the moment, especially since you may have wished for what you have. Remember: if it isn’t absolutely right, then it’s NOT right. Allow this challenge to give you a new standard to live by and don’t compromise that standard. Selenite stimulates our inner brightness.

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Abilities

ETC

helps horse riding accident survivor return to work

Michelle Graham had a horse riding accident four years ago which left her wheelchair bound for ten months. “I had to learn how to walk and talk again, as I hit my head hard when I fell,” Michelle said. Wanting to return to the workforce, Michelle was linked to Disability Employment Service (DES) provider ETC to see what her options were. “ETC worked out what my abilities were, helped with my resume, clothing for interviews and suitable shoes for me to work in.” ETC placed Michelle into a full-time job as the showroom hostess and personal assistant at Designer Living Kitchens (DLK).

Two years later, Michelle is loving her job and is grateful to her employer and ETC for their support. DLK Showroom Manager Damon White encouraged other employers to give people with disability a chance. “Disability or not, Shelley was the stand-out from all the applicants we received. She has proven to be very suitable for the role with her skill-set,” Damon said. ETC provides specialist help to people with an injury, illness or disability to find and keep a job. Call us on 1800 007 400, visit etcltd.com.au or drop into an ETC office in Coffs Harbour, Toormina or Woolgoolga.

East Coast Accessibility Experts. East Coast Accessibility Experts is your not-for-profit community service providing easy, affordable solutions for residential and commercial modifications. East Coast Accessibility Experts is a team comprising experienced, skilled and highly motivated individuals who are passionate about delivering an all-inclusive service to individuals, professionals and commercial businesses. At East Coast Accessibility Experts we believe home is where the heart is and consider it our priority to make a home as safe and accessible as possible. Our purpose is assisting our elders and people with disabilities change the home environment, with a focus on health and wellbeing, providing liveable, affordable and safe homes and/or workplaces to carry out day to day tasks and

increase potential for independent living. What environmental changes do you need to make life easier and safer at home and at work? Do you have access into your home and out in your community? It can be as simple as a grabrail, handheld shower, handrail, access ramp or as complex as bathroom and/or kitchen modifications. We are your provider of choice: responsive, experienced, quality tradespeople, trustworthy and reliable, resulting in best outcomes for you and your carers. We will project manage including plumbing, electrical and carpentry and guarantee installations and products for all environmental changes to your home and/or workplace. For more information, give us a call on 6651 2143 or visit our website: www.accessibilityexperts.org.au

Finding you meaningful work that supports your injury, illness or disability

We’ve helped thousands of people find work and our approach is simple. Finding a job that fits you! We work closely with you to: • Identify real work opportunities • Tailor work, training and support to suit your ability • Encourage and support you every step of the way! As a not-for-profit recruitment agency, ETC exists to serve you and strengthen local communities. For more information visit www.etcltd.com.au/des

etcltd.com.au

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Nexus

Con

Nexus 101 - what you need to know about the hottest Pop Culture Con to hit regional Australia! Nexus Con is a one-day popular culture convention. It’s a showcase of activities, gaming, entertainment and fun that appeals to gaming, comic and pop-culture enthusiasts in one place. Nexus Con is a community and family event where people can share common interests, make friends and have loads of fun.

hat is Nexus Con? Nexus Con is a “Pop Culture Convention”. Think all things pop (popular) culture: anime, gaming, cosplay (costume play), characters, movies, fantasy and so much more! Nexus Con is a chance for the Coffs Coast and the wider North Coast region to come together to celebrate everything Pop Culture in one place. Nexus Con is an all ages, family friendly, inclusive event. There is something for everyone, and the whole community is invited to join in the fun. You won’t want to miss it. That’s COOL! How did it get started? Nexus Con is the brainchild of a group of young people known as Nexus HQ; their vision was to connect with like-minded people to share their interest in all things pop culture. Nexus HQ have been supported to achieve this vision by Mid Coast Communities Incorporated and other local youth and community services. Nexus Con (originally called Level Up!) is now in its fourth year, and is set to be the biggest and best yet. WOW! What an awesome idea! I’m definitely coming this year. What will I see? The event will be held at the Coffs Harbour Race Course this year, and has already attracted national and international guests, cosplayers, itasha cars, gamers, media and experts. There will be lots of hands on activities to experience things like sword play, achery, LARPing (Live Action Role Playing), virtual worlds, animation, electronic gaming, table top games, special effects makeup and heaps more. There will be cosplay competitions, workshops to learn 56 Coffs Coast focus

different skills, expert panels, as well as the very popular “Zombie Extraction Zone”. We’ve got giant games on the grass, jumping castles for the littlest pop culture fans, as well as a huge variety of foods and drinks from different cultures to keep you going. Epic! I saw somewhere this is an “inclusive event”? What does that mean? An inclusive event means everyone can enjoy the fun, no matter what your ability. The space is accessible to people in wheel chairs or who need assistance with mobility. It also means that we have a chill-out space for those who might get a little overwhelmed by the noise and the crowd. We have space if people need some privacy for feeding or changing too. Basically what we want everyone to know is that “YOU’RE WELCOME” (sing it like from Moana! You know you want to - she’ll be back this year as well, by the way). We also love that Coffs Coast Autism (CCA) love Nexus Con as much as we at Mid Coast Communities do, and as such they’ve partnered with us as a major sponsor of the event. Laura Daley from Coffs Coast Autism said, “CCA is so pleased to be participating in Nexus Con. We know popular culture and gaming are areas of high interest to many individuals and families on the Autism Spectrum”. Make sure you pop into the Chill-out Zone while you’re at Nexus Con; just like the festival itself, it’s a place for everyone and you’ll find some super cool things in there to test out, and they have a recharging station in there for your phone too - so #WINNING! Even better! So give me the lowdown; what’s the cost, how do I get there, is there

anything else I need to know? OK, here are the details … The cost is $15 for an adult, $10 for kids, under five years are free and you can get a family pass for $35. A family is about two adults and two kids, but we get that it’s not the same for everyone, so just let us know and we’ll sort it out if yours looks a little different. If you’re a carer, you can come in for free with a paid ticket for the person you’re caring for. The event is at the Coffs Coffs Coast Autism is so pleased Race Course, so to be participating in Nexus there’s parking Con. We know popular culture on site. You can to some exclusive offers, and and gaming are areas of high also jump on any you might even win yourself a interest to many individuals and of the normal prize! families on the Autism Spectrum. buses operating in WOAH! Joining the mailing Coffs. Our Ability list for sure! What if I want to Links team have help? Can I get involved? organised transport Besides being an attendee, from Taree, Port Macquarie and Kempsey, so if you can be one of our volunteers on the day, you’ve got friends or family down that way let apply to be a stallholder or exhibitor, help to run them know to head to our website and book an activity, if you work for a community service themselves in. organisation you can get your work involved, We’re all over our social media, so head if you’re a business you can become a sponsor, to Facebook and like and follow Nexus Con and we also need zombies - random, we know. for regular updates. Tickets are available Head to our website and fill in the form to from our website: nexuscon.com.au and at register your interest or email our project cothe gate on the day. You’ll find the program, ordinator Jacqui: jacquelinesmith@midcc.org.au accommodation and travel information and lots Sweet! I’m all set! Wait ... Should I dress of other good stuff on the website too. If you go up? there and join our mailing list, you’ll get access Definitely! We all are. See you there!

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ABility

Links

bility Links is a different approach to supporting people, their families and carers in the community, and to supporting communities to be as welcoming and socially inclusive as possible. Ability “Linkers” work with people aged 7 - 64, their families, carers and communities to help them get to where they want to be so they are able to live fulfilling and inclusive lives. They do this by placing participants at the centre of decision making about the lifestyle choices they want to make. Linkers listen with empathy and understanding. They build networks of knowledge and supports. They open up connections and opportunities, and they are passionate about what they do. People come to Ability Links with different goals and needs and at different points in their lives. There is no assessment process or other eligibility criteria that people need to meet to access the Ability Links program. Anyone can contact a Linker whenever they need to, whether it be for information or to work together for a short period to achieve a particular goal or dream. The “Sports Ability” project, one of many delivered by the Mid Coast Communities Ability Links team on the Mid North Coast, is teaching students and community members the value of inclusion and giving students of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy sport. Initially an early intervention initiative aimed at students from Kindergarten to Year Six and staff from across the region, the project teaches

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Ability Links Linkers work closely with people to support them to fulfil their hopes and dreams. They have a can-do attitude in connecting people with community, to gain employment and to achieve their goals.

skills of how to play I was born with my disability, so inclusive games. The I’ve obviously been through it as games are tailored so a child. In my day we never offering inclusive sports that participants are had these inclusive sports, to all students. The Ability all on a level playing so a lot of times when I Links staff teach children field. An example is was at school l would about disability, inclusion, seated volleyball, where have to miss out; I would the capacity of people with everyone sits down to have to watch all of the kids play, disability and the value of hit the ball over the net. and it was quite lonely being on treating each other equally Instead of trying to beat the sidelines all the time. because we’re all different. each other, everyone is It’s about raising awareness trying to work together around inclusiveness, but and hit it over. There also about breaking down the barriers with is also bell-ball (or goalball) where everyone is disabilities and getting kids to feel comfortable blindfolded and there is a bell in the ball that is around people of all ability levels. thrown to each other. This ultimately broadens students’ awareness, Now in its fourth year, the program has and their acceptance of people with disabilities. been developed further to suit high schools Local schools have greatly benefitted from the and participants from other not-for-profit fun and dynamic inclusive sports training and a organisations (such as Wesley Mission, Key Employment, PCYC etc.) with sports such as free inclusive sports kit. Meeting and speaking wheelchair balloon soccer and basketball. with program facilitator Robbie Veneziano has More than 45 schools and organisations a positive effect on the school groups; he is a having participated so far, reaching more than strong and positive role model. 6,000 students. The geographic area covered “I was born with my disability, so I’ve on the Mid North Coast stretches from Maclean obviously been through it as a child. In my day in the north to Taree in the south and out to we never had these inclusive sports, so a lot of Hernani, Dundurrabin and the Orara Valley in times when I was at school l would have to miss the west. All schools receive a free kit, so that out; I would have to watch all of the kids play, teachers can continue to offer inclusive games and it was quite lonely being on the sidelines in the curriculum with the sports equipment all the time. If I had this program when I was provided. going to school, I think it would have been The aim is to deliver inclusive sports sessions really fantastic for me. I would have been able to students and staff at a local level, and at a to participate in many more games with the relatively young age, and to resource schools kids and also I guess on a relationship level they with the equipment and training to continue would have felt much more comfortable around

me from the early stages of getting to know me.” Principals have given feedback about the program: “It was wonderful to see the students actively engaged in inclusive activities that we as teachers are now aware of, that we can include in our sports and health programs that would be inclusive for all.“ “It was really important for our students to meet such strong role models. Using sport to show how individuals can engage with community and succeed, no matter what life throws at you, was a very accessible message - particularly for our young men. They saw Robbie's talent and strength, and I have no doubt that they left with a greater appreciation and respect for people of all abilities.” You can contact a Linker whenever you need to. There is no formal assessment process or referral needed to meet in order to access Ability Links NSW. Individuals, clubs, groups and businesses can also access Ability Links NSW for information and support on how to become more inclusive and welcoming for people of all abilities in the community. For more information about the Ability Links program, contact Anna Thompson, Program Manager: Ability and Inclusion, at Mid Coast Communities on (02) 6651 1788.

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Much is known and catered for in traditional tourism market segments; however, in recent times there has been increasing interest in understanding the needs of the inclusive tourism market. By removing barriers, greater participation across all areas of our communities can be encouraged. The Inclusive Tourism market was valued up to $8.9 billion across Australia in the first three months of 2017 alone. It’s growing faster than other market segments. There is a golden opportunity to better understand what businesses can do to better cater for this market that allow all people to participate in leisure and tourism activities. Destination Coffs Coast has organised three workshops with inclusive tourism expert Melissa James, to assist business owners to learn and understand more about the

It’s everyone’s business importance of inclusivity in their business offerings. Ms James will provide valuable insights and tools to help business provide for this market, an important, growing and discerning market. Ms James believes that “inclusive tourism is everyone’s business” and focuses her workshops on three groups: people with a disability, older people, and young families. The workshops are open to anyone who operates within the visitor economy, those that look after and service the leisure and tourism needs of visitors and locals. The workshops are being held in various locations and times on the Coffs Coast - Woolgoolga (27th August, 12 to 2pm), Coffs Harbour (28th August, 5:30pm to 7:30pm) and Sawtell (29th August, 7am to 9am) to provide for various sectors of the industry, and others. Bookings can be made at inclusivecoffscoast.eventbrite.com.au

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Inclusive Tourism

Subee

Aged Care and Disability

We have a long standing (and well earned!) reputation for quality, reliability, flexibility and individual care. In an industry that changes fast, we are an industry leader. We can provide staff 24 hours a day from Kempsey to Grafton and up to Dorrigo. Services can be long-term, short-term or one offs, depending on your needs. We also provide services for NDIA recipients and aged care packages. As a local Coffs Coast business, we know how important it is for people to stay living and active in their own communities. We love being in Coffs, and we know you do too. Subee provides care that is delivered within a person centred framework and underpinned by a continuous quality improvement business model which ensures continuity of care, ongoing feedback and review, up to date clinical training and full transparency. What does this actually mean? It means that our number one priority is you. Always. Our staff work closely with clients, carers and families to ensure that what you need is what you get! We undergo regular audits for our management system. As part of our

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strategy to never rest on our laurels, we work with you, not just for you. For direct referrals, new clients and/or their legal nominee work closely with a Case Manager to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan which encompasses all care needs, including low and high level clinical care, personal care, respite care, domestic assistance, meal prep, transportation to appointments (wheelchair accessible vehicle available) community access or cleaning and garden maintenance. We do offer other services too. Subee PL is an agent for Air Liquide Healthcare, providing oxygen, CPAP and ventilator equipment to clients in the community from Coffs to Yamba, including deliveries to your front door and an after hours emergency service. We provide nursing staff to local aged care facilities. We are a locally owned and operated aged care provider and can meet the needs of aged residents of the Coffs Coast with aged care packages. Call us on 6651 3153 to have a chat about what you need and how we can help you to get it.

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W I T H R E N A E D O N O VA N F R O M 3 B E A R S C O T TA G E

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ONE is welcome

Key Employment.

Early Childhood Education and care services play a major role in every community; often they are the first step for families to engage in the wider community. FOCUS had a chat with Renae Donovan from 3 Bears Cottage to find out more ...

hile the saying “It takes a village to raise a child” has become an iconic cliché, there can be no doubt that the idea behind it is still relevant. As a mother with a child on the Autism Spectrum, I know first-hand that building partnerships with specialist services in the community was absolutely prevalent to get us to where we are now. Creating a “sense of community” is an important part of what we do at 3 Bears. We offer a child friendly platform from which to support families with young children, by bringing all stakeholders together in a community partnership to strengthen the network of support around children as they grow and develop. As a result of our actions, during Early Childhood Education Week last year 3 Bears was awarded “Best Program Highlighting Inclusivity Practices”, as our educators were able to establish strong relationships with our local communities. 3 Bears’ relationships with other services continues to be invaluable, as we share resources and information to assist us to provide inclusive practices, by connecting our families with experiences that strengthen their resilience and improve children’s developmental outcomes. This in turn enabled us this year to develop our very own unique wellbeing curriculum. This year we again have a particular interest in inclusive practice, while also

submitting entries into a wide array of categories during Early Childhood Education Week, 23rd - 27th July 2018. With one in 100 people now being diagnosed with Autism in Australia, we felt that there was a considerable need this year to look at how we could not only assist these children and families, but to also raise awareness. As my daughter grew, it was obvious that her Autistic traits were going to challenge her ability to connect and contribute to the world considerably, so looking into connecting with a service that could enhance her functional capacity and that of others on the spectrum was important to me, and I believed the early childhood education sector is well positioned to do this. Keeping our children physically active in a tech savvy era is more important now than ever, and this can be said to be particularly important for those children on the spectrum. Many children on the spectrum will have difficulties with sensory processing issues, making it hard to connect with the wider community. Sensory overload and meltdowns can often be reduced through heavy work/ proprioceptive input like swinging, pushing and pulling, as well as increasing focus and attention. So with this in mind, we decided this year to partner with an additional community organisation, “CrossFit APA”, to assist 3 Bears to see what heavy work strategies might look like and include these into our program. Thinking back to my occupational

therapy days with my daughter, where heavy work activities were used quite frequently as an early intervention, a fundamental movement program seemed relevant for inclusion within the 3 Bears wellbeing curriculum. Chris from CrossFit APA is an experienced Exercise Physiologist who runs individual and group kids’ classes, is Active Kids and NDIS registered and is holding a CrossFit fundraiser event to support Autism, with 100% being donated to charity. 3 Bears will be supporting this event by providing a sensory friendly chill out area on the day, so come down and say hello and support a great initiative.

Key Employment has been providing high quality disability employment services to the Mid North Coast for over 27 years. We have had thousands of satisfied clients and maintain over 95% customer satisfaction rates. In our latest independent survey, over 80% rated us as the best employment service they’ve had. That’s because we treat people like individuals and listen and act on their needs. That’s the Key difference respect and dignity. Our community work also shows this respect, and our youth hub is making a real difference in young people’s lives. For those who just don’t fit into the school system, it is a great way forward into fantastic training and a great job. And now we bring our expertise, care and understanding to the NDIS. Our links to local business and our skills in preparing people for work combine in our NDIS programs. We don’t care about your disability … we care about your dreams. It’s not about what you can’t do - it’s about what you want to do. Go to www.keyemployment.com.au, drop in at the hub or call 6691 9999.

For more details, please visit CrossFit APA Facebook page - everyone is welcome. 3 Bears will be concluding our Early Childhood Week 2018 participation on Friday 27th July, by inviting families and community members to our service to share, embrace and celebrate the children’s learning during the week: Engage, Learn, Play … Play is Educational. All activities that we engaged in will be laid out for viewing, including our visual art entry to create an environment full of beauty and colour, which can be admired and appreciated by all. Our inspiring educators will be available during the event, to guide all new potential families through, or simply pull up a log and enjoy delicious nibbles around our warm fire pit. Head over to the 3 Bears Cottage Facebook page for more details.

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Coffs Harbour BCC (Birch Carroll and Coyle) have many community based initiatives and we talked to Sue Amos, the General Manager, about a recent St. John Paul College student, Nicola, who really enjoyed the mentoring program they have on offer.

offs Harbour BCC is so much more than a movie cinema. Sue, how is BCC a real part of the community we live in? Well, apart from every community needing great entertainment, there are so many ways we engage at various levels. We are always looking for great offers to present to our customers, like: $11 Family Movies on school holidays, Family Fun Day Screenings, Morning Tea Screenings for our Senior Members and Sensory Movie Days. We are a fantastic first job for so many local teenagers, and we support schools with choc top and popcorn stalls for their fetes to help them raise funds, also welcoming work experience students looking for a taste of life beyond school. Recently you had a mentoring program in place, and Nicola from St. John Paul College attended - what kind of activities did she participate in? Nicola joined us for her retail subject and has been coming each week with a teacher’s aide to complete her work experience. The school and Nicola’s family are very proactive and there is so much for support for us, as well as Nicola - it’s such a wonderful experience for myself and the staff. During her morning, Nicola helps set up the candy bar, greets customers, assists in candy bar sales and directs customers to their cinema. In between sessions is time for a few cleaning jobs. We are currently looking at her work experience continuing after school is finished. What feedback did you receive - does Nicola enjoy her time at BCC and take away a new skill set? Her mum, Christine, has been so supportive and proud of Nicola’s accomplishments: “She has benefited greatly from her work placement with the cinema. She has learned new skills and the importance of work ethics and staying on task, which has increased her confidence and self-esteem. 62 Coffs Coast focus

“Meeting new people in the community has assisted her social skills, including a focus on making eye contact with customers and advising which cinema they are in.” We absolutely love this feedback and are so glad that our support of Nicola, and her learning, has had real results. Deb, a Teacher’s Aide that accompanies Nicola also says, “Nicola enjoys her work experience at the cinema, as it is always varied and she has learnt many new skills. She especially enjoys serving the customers and listens intently to their requests, so that she can help. Nicola now knows what jobs she needs to fulfil in her two hours’ work experience, and she also enjoys learning new jobs when they arise. The cinema staff are always very welcoming and helpful to assist Nicola with her learning and independence.“ That’s a great example of how you cater for people of all different abilities; is there anything else? Sensory Movie Days are designated sessions for families with sensory needs. Held each month on a Sunday morning, we screen a family movie with the lights slightly up, sound at a lower level and volunteers to help provide additional eyes and support. It is a welcoming and accepting environment where children with sensory issues can have some quality time with their families, as they are free to move around, vocalise, be themselves. Too often families are split for activities due to sensory requirements - we aim to be a place where ALL families are together. Our Sensory Movie Days are a wonderful initiative we relaunched last year with the help of Sensory Souls nationally and also Coffs Coast Autism locally, who provide volunteers and networking to the families. The next Sensory Movie Day is Incredibles 2 (PG) on Sunday, August 19 at 10:30am. Facilities are also available for Closed Captions and Audio Description in cinemas 2 and 4. This means that movie titles enabled with this technology will be flagged on our

Sensory Movie Days are

Cinebuzz for Seniors Patron Programme and designated sessions for families website: www.birch. Ambassador. Cinebuzz with sensory needs. Held com.au is recognised as one each month on a Sunday What does Closed of Australia’s best morning, we screen a Caption and Audio free loyalty programs. family movie with the Description mean? Members who are 65 lights slightly up, sound at Closed Captions are a lower level and volunteers to or over currently receive subtitles for people help provide additional eyes and $10 tickets to standard with profound lack of support. sessions, discounted hearing, presented with choc tops and lots of a Captiview unit. The other great offers. Its unit fits into the cup free to join, you get holder and is positioned at a comfortable cheap tickets … it’s brilliant! place within the line of sight of the viewer. And to be honest, there are so many things For those with very limited sight, Audio to talk about; I’d need the whole mag! But, I Description enables them to still experience recommend everyone knowing about: the wonder of movies. As well as the Chicks at the Flicks - held monthly, these general soundtrack for the film, there is also preview screenings are the perfect girls’ descriptive narrative to really set the scene. night out. Mini market, nibbles, gift bag and These are displayed with CC and AD giveaways (they tend to be a “mums’ night respectively on our program; you can even off”). filter for these sessions specifically on Family Fun Days - leading up to the release www.birch.com.au Do some of these customers require of new family films, look out for our Family additional care? Fun Days, where we entertain the kids before Many of our regular (and favourite) a special advance screening of the film. customers require a high level of care. I am Cinebuzz Rewards members also receive very proud that we accept Companion Cards. discounted tickets to these events. These government issued cards enable a Weekend Family Flicks - in between the person requiring care to bring their carer holidays we keep running the slightly older at no cost. This extends to all movies, even product every Saturday and Sunday morning those on the No Free Ticket List. We have and tickets are from just $6 - you never know many customers and carers both from the when you need a cheap way to entertain kids family environment and registered community on a weekend! care organisations utilise this service on a Bring Your Baby - having a newborn can regular, sometimes weekly basis. We even be a really tough time, and getting out and have the cutest Assistance Dog “Arlo” visit about is really important. These sessions run with his owner. Arlo assists us to have a great three times a week and are made just for day too when he visits! parents with babies: the lights are up, the What other activities do you offer and sound is down and you don’t need to dash for who? out with every coo they make. Some of our biggest events are our These events, when they are on, and the Seniors Morning Teas. These are a morning discounts available, can all be found on screening of a new release film and our www.eventcinemas.com.au members receive a complimentary morning Thanks Sue. tea put on by our lovely Lorrinda, who is our

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a special focus feature

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Gareth Owen

B I G

G A R D E N

F U R N I T U R E

How has your business evolved since it began?

offered by the major retailers.

Big Garden Furniture has evolved 1ten-fold since we took over in 2008. Our first project was to give the furniture a more refined look, instead of being so “rustic”. Secondly, we re-designed all the furniture so it could be built using drawings and templates, as we were initially seeking supplier contracts with the Councils in our region. We then set about incorporating new designs that were adaptable to change by using steel and stainless steel fabricated fixtures.

Our staff. Andrew and Wayne are by far our best asset, as without them we have nothing. Being able to rely on one another to get each project completed is huge for a small business.

I N T E R I O R

What is your business’ greatest asset?

After about three years, we ventured heavily in indoor furniture, dining tables, dining chairs and bathroom products (i.e. vanities) as the market was looking for a locally handcrafted product of a higher quality than was being

How will you embrace change in 2018? We’ll be launching a new website that will be more mobile/tablet friendly and will also showcase our most recent projects, to keep prospective customers up to date and informed. We will also be introducing a strong social media presence to promote our business. This only comes from many hours of learning to understand how social media products work for you; it’s a big learning curve that us “oldies” have to master in order to stay in touch.

paul lyle

Paul Lyle

Marcus Phillips

L E D

Describe how you got started in your business? I did my electrical apprenticeship on the Gold Coast, before moving to the Coffs Coast. I worked for a few electrical contractors, project managing a number of larger domestic, commercial and industrial projects. In 2014 I went out on my own, establishing LED Lyle Electrical and Data, and haven’t looked back since. How has your business evolved since it began? The biggest editions to my business since starting are I employed an apprentice two years ago, who is now in his fourth year and the purchase of new vehicles and an excavator. Zac, my apprentice, has been a great edition to my business; he’s hard working and great with clients. Having the two of us, plus the use of subcontractors when required, ensures we

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can manage larger scale projects and multiple projects at one time. The purchase of my excavator has made me more competitive and has open up other avenues of work, such as tight access excavation work, small slab cuts, footings, concrete and stump removal.

D E S I G N E R

As an Interior Designer, Marcus Phillips from Designer Living Kitchens has always maintained a focus on creating aesthetically pleasing, practical kitchen design by taking into account how it relates to the lifestyle of the owners. FOCUS grabbed a coﬀee with Marcus, to ﬁnd out more about his professional background and current kitchen trends.

escribe how you got started Kitchen of the Year and some other awards in your business? After along the way has helped to guide the path to leaving school, I was accepted achievement. into Julian Asheton’s Art School What is your business’ greatest asset? at The Rocks in Sydney - I Word of mouth is by far the best thing, and it ended up owning and running starts accumulating with time as the business a theatre restaurant in Byron Bay and when I sold establishes itself in a particular area. it, moved back to Sydney and decided to put How do you measure success in business? By my interior design the number of happy hat on. I started with clients over the Impala Kitchens in years, some of which Sydney and ended Personally, we grow into are now my closest up becoming head a career as we gain more designer nationally friends. and more experience. (Melbourne, Sydney, How will you The initial training is just Brisbane). embrace change in a foundation to build on How has your 2018? There’s only to at the end of the day, career evolved since one certainty in life as there is nothing more it began? I guess the - and that is change valuable than experience advances have been will occur. built knowledge. through technology, What business with the leap forward leaders do you of design programs. It look up to? Locally wasn’t that long ago I would say Brian the industry drafted by hand on a drawing board. Hopwood, who literally started from scratch Personally, we grow into a career as we gain and built an excellent housing company. His more and more experience. The initial training customers are looked after and are always happy is just a foundation to build on to at the end of with the end result. In general, I look up to the day, as there is nothing more valuable than people who share their success e.g. Bill Gates, experience built knowledge. who from early on in his life swore to dedicate his What is your greatest achievement? Other fortune and his time to helping humanity. than my three daughters, winning outright

What is your business’ greatest asset? My attention to detail, knowledge, problem solving skills, delivery and client management (including cleaning up after a job) has ensured that clients use our services again and recommend them to others. With experience in a broad spectrum of the electrical trade, I provide services to all types of clients; from new homes and renovations, commercial and industrial buildings, industrial motors and control, to changing a powerpoint there isn't much we shy away from. Coffs Coast focus 65

Craig Richardson & Adam Jones A N Y

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Describe how you got started in your business? Craig: I pretty much continued after I left school. I’ve always enjoyed music and enjoyed being behind the sound desk and tinkering with audio visual gear, so it was a natural progression. AJ: I worked for the “Big Boys” in A.V when I lived in Sydney and Brisbane, before settling down in Coffs Harbour 15 years ago.

Carl Bennett

M E R C E D E S

C O F F S

C O A S T

escribe how you got started staff; without great staff you have nothing. in your business? I am a We invest heavily on training programs for our baker pastry cook by trade. staff, so they reach their full potential; this is I moved to Coffs Harbour in not only in the sales department but across June 2006 and managed the the dealership, including parts and service. Plaza Car Wash for two years, which was How do you measure success in business? owned by the Blewitts. We have numerous tools we use to measure After this was sold, Todd approached me to success in the dealership, from targets see if I would like to sell cars - and I haven’t and goal setting to Customer Satisfaction looked back since. Surveys; these are How has your all effective tools business evolved since it began? In we use at the the 10 years I have dealership. In this day and age been involved in the I personally measure you need to be a multi dealership, we have success through my franchised dealership seen huge changes; customer referrals; offering more than one the days of being brand of vehicle, which giving a customer a stand alone Ford is what we have achieved a great experience dealer have gone. by adding Kia, Isuzu Ute when they purchase In this day and age and Mercedes-Benz to a vehicle from you, you need to be a our portfolio. then having them multi franchised dealership offering more than one brand of vehicle, which is what we have achieved by adding Kia, Isuzu Ute and Mercedes-Benz to our portfolio. What is your greatest achievement? While running the Isuzu Ute Franchise of the Business in 2014, we were crowned Australian Dealer of the Year - which was based on sales, service and customer satisfaction. What is your business’ greatest asset? Our greatest business asset would be our

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refer their friends and family back to you gives me great satisfaction and also lets me know that I have exceeded their expectations. How will you embrace change in 2018? 2018 has been a year of change for me, as I recently accepted a promotion, stepping down as Isuzu Ute Sales Manager to become Mercedes-Benz Sales Manager. This has been fantastic, and I’m loving the challenge.

How has your business evolved since it began? We both started out as sole traders (Any Entertainment and Entertainment Sound and Lighting), and in 2012 we decided to merge the two businesses and form a company - Any Entertainment. From then, we have become the largest employer in the audio visual industry on the Mid North Coast and have the largest inventory of audio, vision and lighting systems.

What is your business’ greatest asset? It sounds cliché, but it’s true - our team. A good crew is hard to find, and we are proud to say that we have an exceptional team of both full and part-time employees who share our vision for the company and deliver that every day of the week to our clients. How do you measure success in business? I would say repeat customers. Many of our clients we have had for over 10 years and they keep welcoming us back, be it returning bands, or local venues. How will you embrace change in 2018? With open arms! We are always being asked by our clients to do new and exciting things. We are finding with the changes in technology we can deliver more exciting audio, visual and lighting solutions to more people.

Dean Bridgman S A W T E L L

escribe how you got started in your business? Sawtell Kitchen Centre began in 1982 as a small family business manufacturing kitchens. Since then, Sawtell Kitchen Centre has grown over time with the changing markets and trends; we have been manufacturing all of our own postform laminate benchtops in house for the last 25 years, and in recent times we have been producing some one-off custom pieces of furniture. How has your business evolved since it began? Sawtell Kitchen Centre started off as a small family run business and has continued to grow to become a much larger business, but still maintaining our small business values. As the new owners, we will still be a family owned and operated business. We are always updating to stay ahead of the curve; we

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are purchasing some new equipment and have almost completed a full renovation of our showroom to encase the products that we offer.

new kitchens, wardrobes etc.

What is your businessâ€™ greatest asset? My greatest assets would be my staff and my clients; happy staff translates to happy clients and at the end of the day, that is why I am in business. You get a great satisfaction knowing that your clients love everything you have done for them.

just been to AWISA in Sydney, which is

How do you measure success in business? Success in business is best measured by client satisfaction; if you are providing a service, you should be prepared to provide the best service available. Sawtell Kitchen Centre has a huge repeat business client base, which is a testament to the service we provide. We are seeing second and third generations of families coming in for

How will you embrace change in 2018? Staying on top of current market trends is always on my radar. We have the largest expo for cabinet makers in the Southern Hemisphere, and my team and I are ready to implement some of the new technologies and trends coming to Australia this year. What business leaders do you look up to? My mentor and good friend owns a few very successful mechanical workshops in Sydney; he has shown me the finer points in running a successful business, and I have been fortunate enough to experience this when I was working for him. John has worked

My greatest assets would be my staff and my clients; happy staff translates to happy clients and at the end of the day, that is why I am in business.

closely with some of the biggest names in retail, and I was lucky enough to receive training directly from him.

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Barry Hockey B A R R Y

H O C K E Y

A C C O U N T I N G

It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. If you prepare your own tax return, then you need to complete and lodge your tax return by 31 October. If you have not been to a tax agent before and would like your return completed by a professional, then you need to see them prior to 31 October. You should ensure that your tax professional is a registered tax agent. Do you have work related expenses, or you are a sole trader? Then check out the ATO App - myDeductions. This will make it easier and more convenient to keep your tax deductions and income records all in one, and it’s free. Simply download the ATO app to your smart device and choose whether you’d like to use as an individual, sole trader or both.

Then you can add deductions/ expenses, vehicle trips, income (if sole trader) and photos of your receipts. You’re now paperless. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

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Luke Morris N E W

B R E E D M O V E M E N T & N U T R I T I O N

Robin Sutton R O B ’ S

S H E E T M E T A L

F A B R I C A T I O N

Describe how you got started in your business? I had been training in martial arts my whole life and whilst reaching adulthood, I had recognised that there was a large disconnect amongst our community’s understanding of our capabilities as humans. So, I began my journey in assisting young kids to reach their potential through Jiujitsu and martial arts, which has now evolved into a large variety of training methods, including Primal/Natural Fitness and Ninja Warrior Obstacles plus more.

I initially started out my apprenticeship at Bosco in Sydney,

How has your business evolved since it began? We have grown exponentially, as I believe people are realising that conventional fitness methods are largely limited in what they offer and are essentially adding more dysfunction to our existing dysfunction. Modern living is great .... but, it’s created a massive deficit in our physical and physiological health. Our unique coaching and services have been the key to re-establishing our glorious levels of real strength, fitness and wellbeing that has been lost. So the full growth of NB is still to come; we are only scratching the surface and intend to break it.

I worked for Bosco, where I’d done my time, and my old boss

What is your greatest achievement? I have personally been fortunate to have many great achievements in Professional MMA, winning multiple Australian Titles and travelling the world to train under the most elite coaches and champions, but also New Breed has simply had the greatest achievement of all: helping other humans live the life of a true warrior.

and do aluminium boat repairs, plus our custom work is our

getting taken to work on the back of a motorbike the day after I finished Year 10 by my father. As I worked through my apprenticeship, meeting my partner, Nicole and having children, I left Bosco and worked for other places, gaining a lot of knowledge and experience - and then I moved to Coffs at age 22.

sold me a couple of machines they no longer used. So with a few dollars in my pocket and some old machinery and being super keen, I started my own business. I found after a lot of blood, sweat and tears and sticking with it, I have succeeded. Now 20 years later, I have taken on my youngest son, as well as another tradesman. We are proud to supply the Coffs Coast with the biggest and best quality trailers, and we can fabricate in stainless steel speciality. I would like to thank everyone who has stuck with me, and I look forward to being of service to the Coffs community in the future.

HARDAKER

Aaron Hardaker is one of the most successful physiotherapists on the North Coast. FOCUS had a chat to him to find out more about what it’s like being one of the best.

escribe how you got started in your business? After spending a couple of years in each of the UK and Ireland working with Gaelic Football and Rugby, I decided it was time to warm up and see some sunshine again! I moved home to Coffs and quickly recognised a need for better access to quality healthcare services for the people of the Northern Beaches, so took the plunge and opened a physio practice in a small rented room just one day per week. With plenty of blood, sweat and tears, we’ve now grown to have four busy clinics across the Coffs Coast.

Southern Cross University

healthier and happier. What is your business’ greatest asset? I wholeheartedly believe our people are our greatest asset. We’ve got such a mix of ages, experience, knowledge, personalities and interests within the team - it makes it such a vibrant culture and one I love working in every day. I’m really passionate about supporting education and personal growth within the team, to ensure the experience you have when you come to see us as a client is outstanding.

How do you measure success in business? In our industry, success is usually measured by clinical outcomes; How has your business evolved namely, whether your injury has improved since it began? The change has been or not. While dramatic, driven this is significant, by continuous I’m much more improvement, interested in innovation and I wholeheartedly believe whether you a desire to keep our people are our choose to return up with the latest greatest asset. We’ve to us for other research and best got such a mix of ages, issues, whether practice models. experience, knowledge, you recommend We’ve gone from personalities and us to your family me being the interests within the and friends, and sole therapist team it makes it such a you were satisfied and receptionist, with the service you vibrant culture and one I bookkeeper, received from our love working in every day. cleaner and team. These are everything in between, to a team the key measures of almost 20 with of success for us, a diverse range of and the things that skills and knowledge who are focused on have driven our growth over the years. In the achieving the best outcomes for our clients. past 12 months we have completed almost I came to the realisation some time ago 15,000 consultations, with a lot of those that working as a standalone physio would being for returning clients, whom we love not provide the best results for our clients. helping. From this, I set about developing a more How will you embrace change in 2018? collaborative approach to healthcare, with Continuous improvement and innovation a team of exercise physiologists, dietitians, is part of the fabric of MNC Physio. We massage therapists, Pilates and yoga have already added new staff, new services instructors, personal trainers and weight loss and new technology to our business in the coaches, backed by a great admin team. first half of this year and intend on doing What is your greatest achievement? My more of the same throughout the year. greatest achievement by far is being lucky We are finalising some exciting plans to enough to be married to a loving, supportive better meet the needs of clients undergoing wife and being a dad to three beautiful cancer treatment, as well as developing children - this is far more important than anything I’ve ever done in business. From a some specialised chronic pain management business perspective, I’m hugely proud of services to meet the growing need in the the team we have developed, the values we community. Keep your eye out for news on stand by and the genuine buzz we get from these great new developments as they roll helping lots of people on the Coffs Coast be out.

How has your business evolved since it began? Our gym started as a student and staff only facility in 2008. It was solely focused on servicing the CHEC campus and was opened sporadically throughout the week to facilitate “peak time” usage. Our business over the last two years has moved toward a totally inclusive model, where all our Coffs Harbour community are welcome. We now have consistent and predictable open times and have cemented our niche in the market as the most unintimidating gym in Coffs Harbour. The addition of Fitness Passport has also been a great advancement for our business model.

What is your business’ greatest asset? Our staff. We take great care with our recruitment strategies and would prefer to go back to market to find the right fit, rather than simply take the strongest applicant. Given we are positioned as the most unintimidating gym in Coffs, it is important that our staff understand and can relate with customers who are first time trainers, or have been a long time absent from exercise. How do you measure success in business? Customer satisfaction. Our business has made a few transformations over the last 10 years, and I think we finally know who we are and what we stand for. We are clearly the most affordable gym in Coffs Harbour, and we take great care of our people.

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Luke Tweddle H O U S T O N

C O N S T R U C T I O N S

Describe how you got started in your business? I have been in the building industry since I was 17. Fresh out of school, I was straight into a carpentry apprenticeship, more recently followed by achieving my building licence, which enabled my wife, Tara, and I to be able to purchase Houston Constructions from the original long standing owners, David and Helen Houston. How has your business evolved since it began? The residential and commercial growth

What is your greatest achievement? We recently completed our biggest home renovation in Macauley’s Headland Drive. It was a massive learning curve, but the final product that we were able to produce for our customers was very satisfying. It was a proud moment for myself and all of the tradespeople who work with us. What is your business’ greatest asset? My chippies and my tradespeople. Without all of these people working together as a team, my business wouldn’t be where it is today.

years is ridiculous! Since taking over Houston

How do you measure success in business? The happiness of our customers!

Constructions, there have certainly been a few

How will you embrace change in 2018?

stressful moments, but that’s part and parcel

It’s always best to be on the forefront for the ever changing building industry. Listening, keeping an open mind and gaining knowledge will enable me to produce better products.

Coffs Harbour has seen in the past couple of

of small business. It has certainly grown a lot bigger and more quickly than we ever thought it would.

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Nigel Tweddle T W E D D L E ’ S

Describe how you got started in your business? I was originally a chef and picked up a second job as a labourer, dragging branches to the chipper and learning chainsaw and knot skills. I gave climbing a go, and the passion grew from there. How has your business evolved since it began? I started doing little jobs for friends and family, over the weekend or after work. Then I got busier and left both my jobs to run Tweddle’s Trees. What is your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement would be completing my Certificate 3 in Arboriculture. I really enjoyed the experience and learnt a lot at TAFE. What is your business’ greatest asset?

T R E E S

My business’ greatest asset would be my employees, especially my offsider, Kristian Donkin. His knowledge and skill complements mine; we work really well together. How will you embrace change in 2018? Change in 2018 will be the acquisition of large machinery. This will help with our jobs’ efficiency and also to save our backs a bit more! What business leaders do you look up to? I look up to my dad, Nick, and stepdad Mark Aprilovic. Dad’s hard work ethic and people skills, along with Mark’s, who started with nothing and founded Cronulla’s first surf shop and long running surf school. They really inspire me.

Snell & Egan P A I N T I N G

P R O F E S S I O N A L S

escribe how you got started in your business? Mark Snell & Peter Egan Painting Professionals Pty Ltd has been in business for the past three and a half years. Prior to this we have both had many years’ experience in the painting trade. Mark Snell had Coffs City Painting Professionals for 15 years, a well established business servicing the Coffs Coast, until he sold and moved interstate. Mark returned to his home-town of Sawtell in 2014. Peter Egan completed his apprenticeship with Mark at Coffs City Painting back in 2004; he then travelled and painted around Australia, before moving to Urunga. It was winning combination; we reconnected when we both came back to the Coffs Coast and decided once again to join forces to create our current business. How has your business evolved since it

began? Starting with just the two of us, the business has now evolved to employ seven staff.

Carpark and domestic homes.

What is your business’ greatest asset? Our loyal clients, to whom we deliver top quality work Having had so many years’ experience in the on time and within budget; this has resulted Coffs Harbour region, servicing government, in repeat business commercial, for us and many insurance, builders recommendations for and domestic clients, Having had so many years’ more work. word of mouth quickly spread - and our painting services have been in hot demand!

experience in the Coffs Harbour region, servicing government, commercial, insurance, builders and domestic clients, word of mouth quickly spread - and our painting services have been in hot demand!

We have also been doing more project management of large commercial repaints, coordinating various trades. Some recent projects we have completed include the repaint of Toormina Medical Centre, Opal Aged Care facility at the Lakes, Rigby House, Council Chambers, Park Ave

Of course, without our team of very experienced tradesmen, who are as equally passionate about painting and committed as we are, we could not deliver the high standard of work we do. As a team we are committed to training our next generation of tradespeople and supporting our apprentices. We would also like to acknowledge that behind

every great man is a greater woman! Our wives have been instrumental in our business success throughout the years. What is your greatest achievement? Creating a family owned business that carries our family values to both our clients and employees. Mark’s son, Isaac has been learning the ropes for the past six years, ready for the time when Mark will retire, then he and Peter will continue the business on. How do you measure success in business? Happy clients who want to give you repeat business and recommend your services. This has realised immense growth for us over the past three years, in our client base and number of employees. This means we are increasing employment and economic growth in our local region, which is a win for us. Especially as a business working on large scale projects, it is important to keep big contracts for local businesses, rather than importing crews from the bigger cities.

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Sam Phillips

Kieren Dell M A J E S T I C

C I N E M A S

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? We are constantly expanding our operations to provide more content to more people, including redeveloping Port Macquarie less than five years ago to five screens, re-opening Sawtell Cinema in late 2015 and building a new four screen cinema in Kempsey, slated for mid 2019. What excites you most about doing business here? The Mid North Coast is a vibrant, diverse and growing region, and we enjoy engaging with all parts of the community for shared big screen experiences. And of course, it is a beautiful part of the world to live and work in! Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever. How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset? We are looking seriously at how we can further reduce waste; in particular, the use of plastic across our business, on top of the pre-existing recycling programs which operate at our complexes. Also, we have recently converted our Nambucca Heads cinema and head office to solar power, with Port Macquarie to follow soon. In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Finalising an agreement to bring a beautiful new full-service cinema to the people of the Macleay Valley in 2019. And, diversifying the content that we show our patrons, to keep them engaged, including an increasing number of community-led screenings, plus corporate and fundraiser events. Weâ€™ve devoted more of our resources to handling events across our business.

Local entrepreneur Sam Phillips has a long list of achievements. FOCUS caught up with Sam to learn about his latest plans ...

hat is your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement is becoming the person I've grown up to be. I have learned a lot in the past few years, which

It's all been great fun. Some losses, some wins, some sunny, some not so sunny (ha ha). But one thing I can tell you: I'm only just getting started. Watch this space! How do you measure success in business? Creating an event, building the HYPE

has helped me me grow professionally.

Getting 3,500 people to my first music festival (Banana Field) was an overwhelming experience. My main goal was creating an event and seeing everyone enjoying their time safely. Now it's turned into a business for ages 12 - 99.

of the event, selling tickets to the

The plan is to work smarter, not harder. I have BIG plans for Violet Vibes Music Festival, happening December 22nd at the Coffs Harbour Showground.

I have hosted many events over

our family run business, The Coffs Hotel; running and coordinating Banana Field; Shore Club Sessions; The Jetty

How will you embrace change in 2018? The plan is to work smarter, not harder. I have BIG plans for Violet Vibes Music Festival, happening December 22nd at the Coffs Harbour Showground. This will be my biggest project to

the years: planning and executing events on a regular basis at

event.

date, which I'm really excited about because the line up is unreal. What business leaders do you look up to?

Food & Wine Festival; Violet Vibes Music Festival; and the

My mum and Graeme Diffy.

most recent SOLD OUT HYPE Under 18s Indoor Festival.

Thanks Sam.

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Simon O’Dell E A G L E

escribe how you got started in your business? After working for one of the big four insurers, I was inspired to leave to represent the insurance

consumer as an advisor. After six years working for a local brokerage, I moved to Sydney to study, work for a mid-tier broking house, learn how the advisory craft was performed in other markets, and learn how the entire insurance value chain functioned. With this knowledge

I N S U R A N C E

B R O K E R S

centric, values based and informed. Since beginning this business I have co-founded Insurtech Australia, a member association that represents Australia’s insurtech companies. What is an insurtech? Thanks to an army of start-up tech entrepreneurs, armed with the latest in technology and customer-centric value creation tools, the insurance industry is undergoing its biggest transformation in >100 years.

collective servicing style could be described

“Insurtech” is the term used to describe the type of company that these entrepreneurs form to deliver this change. Insurtechs are the vehicle via which the insurance industry will embed the principles of transparency and trust back into their products and services. Insurtech Australia helps Australia’s leading insurance firms with their digital transformation strategies. Eagle’s proposition has been endorsed by Insurtech Australia.

as genuine, honest, connected, customer-

What is your greatest achievement?

and perspective, I launched Eagle Coffs. How has your business evolved since it began? Our business is small, though growing quickly. Trisha Herraman, our leading advisor, has a similar ethos to the one that started my insurance journey i.e. ensuring that insurance consumers are informed, covered, and achieve what they are entitled to. Our

Outside of Amy, my fiancé and our daughter Marli, I’d say co-founding and leading Insurtech Australia. I was once frustrated at the lack of willingness of the industry to innovate. I am now a go-to resource for Australia’s industry leaders to aid their digital transformation strategies. What is your business’ greatest asset? Trisha - in addition to her technical abilities, she has a sound character; her values are aligned to principles, and consequently she is very effective and interdependent. How do you measure success in business? In our business - there exists a correlation between our performance and the number of referrals our clients send us. As such, we use the number of client referrals as a measure of our success. In any business - the ability to create market leading value in alignment with one’s chosen consumers’ needs and values, whilst

upholding the value of sustainability i.e. not compromising the environment in which one operates for the sake of shareholder value creation. How will you embrace change in 2018/19? The most pertinent change that will impact our ability to create value for our clients is shortterm economic cycles that influence insurance pricing, and technology. We will deploy various strategies to optimise the impact of these factors, including creating a heightened sense of competition amongst insurance players to apply maximum downward pressure on premiums, and continue to trial and implement various insurtech products and services. What business leaders do you look up to? Brenton Charnley - Chairman of Insurtech Australia and CCO of Cover Genius. Daniel Fogarty - CEO and Founder of Evari and Board Member ANZIIF. Prue Willsford - CEO of ANZIIF.

Coffs Coast focus 73

focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

MARK S A V I C Criminal Lawyer

ell us what your connection to the Coffs Coast is? I purchased a holiday home in Red Rock 14 years ago. This has become my permanent home over the years, as I have come to love the environment here. My three children love to fish, camp and dive, so this is just heaven. How did you come to pursue a career in law? I left school when I was 18 and left home that same year to travel around Australia for a couple of years. During that time, I spent a lot of time in very remote places in predominantly Aboriginal populations. I worked doing bouncing (security work) in pubs such as the Roebuck Hotel in Broome and the Spinifex Hotel in Derby. These places are gentrified now, but were blood baths back then. I experienced many people who were being used and abused in their own country and learned that those in power often exploit those without it. My interest in the law was borne of altruism. After my couple of years of adventure, I worked as a private investigator (commercial mercantile agent) for an organisation doing repossessions and document servicing, where I saw first-hand how those without power are exploited by those with it. By the time I was 23, I had decided to study law. I studied at Bond University while working three jobs part-time, so it took me a bit longer than most. I graduated in 1994. Where have you worked in your career to date? In the 24 years since my graduation, I have worked in the law for about 12 years. Outside of that, I have worked in education, hospitality, film and magazine production and project management. The most marked thing about my legal career is how much I have learned about people. I have met so many interesting people who have found themselves in trouble through 74 Coffs Coast focus

a unique set of circumstances. I have come to accept that most of us could be in the same trouble, given the right set of circumstances. It is true that I have encountered people who could only be described as evil, but fortunately they are a rare breed. I am usually dealing with “normal” people in “abnormal circumstances”. Most recently, I have been working for Aboriginal people. I had the good fortune to work with the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Legal Service in Cairns a couple of years ago. To represent Aboriginal people from country who are very connected to language and culture was a great privilege. My entire working life has been an amazing journey. The journey of learning continues, and it excites me. As I get older, I am starting to feel like I am transitioning into more of a mentoring/ teaching role, which feels very natural to me. You recently started your own legal practice; tell us a little about this? I have started Mark Savic Legal so that I can service my clients, without having to deal with the bureaucracy of a large organisation. Having my own firm enables me to dedicate resources to my clients, rather than organisational compliance. My oldest son is planning to study law as well, so an opportunity for us to work together was also a driver. My new business can be accessed on the web at www.marksaviclegal.com.au What’s your approach to client service? Make it personal. I like the fact that my clients speak directly with me. This is also an issue of accessibility. There are many firms where your first point of contact will be a secretary or personal assistant to the lawyer. Matters are often subject to triage through this third party, and the client rarely receives any advice until they have paid money in to trust. Working on my own, I am able to establish a rapport with my clients more easily and I am able to give them some simple advice directly. One of the most important things is that I am

have been able to live able to give clients a fixed I have met so many price for service. I am also a life of freedom in Red interesting people who able to apply for legal aid Rock, which is slowly have found themselves in on behalf of clients. trouble through a unique disappearing in many What tools are set of circumstances. I have places. Perhaps the you using to build come to accept that most of us biggest reason is that awareness of your new could be in the same trouble, given I feel that this part of practice? the right set of circumstances. Australia loves me. I am My primary tool is my embraced by it every day. website. I am working Tell us something on Search Engine funny, Mark ... Optimisation to ensure I had an older female Aboriginal client in my website is ranking well for user searches, the cells one morning. She had been arrested and I am just starting to see results. I am also and charged with Public Nuisance. She had using “keep it handy” style business cards, which I am distributing in a variety of ways. also been detained on several warrants as a When you’re not in court, what do you like result of not appearing in court. The interview to do in your spare time? is conducted with each of us on the opposite I like to be in the natural environment. I scuba sides of a thick piece of Perspex, so you have dive, free dive, spearfish, skydive, and ride my to shout a bit. This was the first time I had met skateboard too when I forget how old I am this lady. I started to ask her some questions, to (51). I also love to cook and arrange flowers. which she had no answer - just a perplexed look Both bring warmth into my home. I am very on her face. fortunate that my three sons have developed I confidently identified signs of hearing loss, a love for all of the things I like to do, so I which is common among Aboriginal people. I am often in their awesome company having very slowly and deliberately mouthed, “Are you another adventure. Do you have a mentor; if so, who and why? deaf?”, which she immediately affirmed. No Yes, I do. Mr Collin Greatorix and Mr Sunil Dutt are my mentors. Both of these men are very experienced criminal lawyers from whom I have learned the value of humility, the dangers of ego and the love and care for those less fortunate than myself. They also help me with the application of the law and with ethical issues. Having mentors is critical to my wellbeing and continued development as a criminal lawyer. Why do you love the Coffs Coast? I just love the Coffs Coast. It has the best climate, wildlife, hinterland, water, air and overall abundance of life and opportunities. I have met some amazing people here who have become lifelong friends. My children

problem. I needed to seek an adjournment to arrange an Auslan interpreter. She was brought into the dock before the magistrate, where I confidently announced that my client was deaf, and that she should be released on bail immediately. The Magistrate said to my client in a normal voice, “How are Jim and the boys, Wendy?” to which she replied, “They all good”... The Magistrate turned to me saying, “That is how deaf your client is, Mr Savic.” There was much laughter. The court security officer then handed me a note; client pretends to be deaf when not wanting to talk. Thanks Mark.

The Right START. Research evidence supports what we have always assumed, that a person’s life successes, health and emotional wellbeing have their roots in early childhood. We know that if we get it right in the early years, we can expect to see children thrive throughout school and their adult lives.

celebrating 25 years

he impact of the genetic makeup of a child together with the environmental influence in childhood development is well known. The fact is, however, we can’t yet greatly alter the genetic makeup of our prodigy, but we can create nurturing environments for them. The quality of a child’s earliest environments and the availability of appropriate experiences at the right stages of development are crucial determinants of the way each child’s brain architecture develops. Caring and supportive environments that promote optimal early childhood development greatly increase children’s chances of a successful transition to school. This, in turn, promotes children’s chances of achieving better learning outcomes while at school and better education, employment and health after they have finished school. Research has identified four ways that you can make a big difference to your child’s learning. The first is to have regular conversations with your children using your “adult voice” and using language that the children will understand and learn from. It is through these conversations that the children will build their knowledge of sentence structure, tone and also learning from your facial expressions about the importance of active listening skills.

Will your child be...

But first, let’s get them ‘School Prepared’ School readiness programs will run during Term 3 for children starting at any school in 2019. This is open to any child on the Coffs Coast. Please email enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au to register your child.

Enrolling Now 2019 Kindy to Year 12 LIMITED places available in some year groups

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au Tel (02) 6651 5644

RT EW ENERA T I ON S TA O F A N G

111 North Boambee Rd, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

The second tip is the importance of setting positive expectations about the need to persevere when they don’t succeed immediately. This will teach them grit and determination, which are essential foundations of the learning process. The third tip is not a surprise. Read to your children daily. This is essential. They will see the importance of reading if it is habitual. They will engage in the reading earlier, and they will read more often. The written word is the basis of the school educational experience, so developing early reading skills or even pre-reading skills is essential. The final tip is about developing positive partnerships with your child’s preschool teachers and classroom teachers. This partnership is key to being able to support your child in their learning journey. The last part of this article is about selecting the right school for your child. I have worked in schools in three states and across public and independent education for almost 30 years, and finding the right match is important. Here are my tips for finding the right school. Visit the school. Even a short visit will help you identify a school’s strengths and challenges. It’s also the only way to get a feel for a school’s climate - intangible but important factors like the

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

dynamism of the teaching, engagement of the students, quality of communication and respect between students, teachers, support staff, and parents, and the overall sense that the school offers a safe and inspiring learning environment. Here is list of questions to ask the school Principal or Head of School during a Principal’s tour and why you should ask them. Does this school have a particular educational philosophy or mission? (Do these values align with my family’s values?) What is the professional learning priority for your teachers at present? (Teachers need to be agile learners themselves - this shows that the school is dynamic.) What is this school’s approach to student discipline and safety? (Bullying is a huge issue nationally, so this is an important question.) What is the school’s educational data like? Are you improving the learning experience? (Look for NAPLAN data, as well as student academic growth data.) How is technology used to support teaching and learning at this school? (Is the school BYOT, or do they provide the technology? Is it used effectively? Is it used enough, or too much for you?) How do The Arts fit into the curriculum? (Is there a school choir, band or orchestra? A drama program? Art classes? Is this important to you or your child?) What extracurricular opportunities (sports, clubs, community service, competitions, travel opportunities) are available for students? (Are these features important to you?) How does the school support the highly talented student? (Is high performance recognised and supported?) What are the STEM opportunities for the students? (Is the STEM program in every year level, or as a club? Is this important to you?) How does this school support students who have academic, social or emotional difficulties? (What support does the school have for students who learn differently? One in five students need some sort of intervention in their learning. Is this important to you?) Does the school offer Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PE) classes? (Obesity and mental health issues are huge issues for adolescents nationally. What programs does the school have to support appropriate development?) What are some of the school’s greatest accomplishments? What are some of the biggest challenges this school faces? (Do you want to be part of this culture?) Coffs Coast focus 75

is raising funds to attend the trip in December this year and hopes it will bring her closer to achieving her dreams for the future. She has previously received Honours in Science, Mathematics, History and Commerce at her school.

Community Initiatives

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program.

vid space and mathematics enthusiastic Ashleigh Geddes, who one day hopes to be an aerospace engineer, has received the McDonald’s Junior Grant - which will provide additional

young scientists like myself to be able to further their knowledge of STEM and explore different career opportunities,” Ashleigh said.

YMCA Space Squad on USA Mission 1.

She went on to explain that: “During the two week Mission 1 Camp we will be attending a five-day university program at NASA, go to the NASA jet propulsion laboratory, Griffith’s Observatory, the California Science Centre and California Academy of Science”.

“This trip is an amazing opportunity for aspiring

The Year Ten student of Saint John Paul College

funds for her to attend an educational trip to the United States of America as part of the

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“To go on this trip would be an amazing opportunity, enabling me meet other passionate people and to further my knowledge and understanding in STEM. I could explore what I need to do to achieve my goals and future career and forge friendships with like-minded students that will last a lifetime,” Ashleigh said. Both the Coffs Harbour Scout Group and 1st Woolgoolga Scout Group have aspirations to attend the Australian Jamboree in South Australia next year. The Australian Jamboree is held every three years and attracts over 10,000 scouts from around Australia, who come together for 10 days. But the cost per child exceeds over two thousand dollars. This month both Scout groups are recipients of the McDonald’s Junior Grant, which will help boost their fundraising efforts to provide an opportunity to make the trip more accessible for their Scouts. Scouts offers an amazing array of activities designed to teach important life, social and physical skills for boys and girls aged between 11 and 14 years old. Their programs focus on supporting young people to develop their

confidence and teaches them how to work as part of a team. Scouts learn essential outdoor safety skills, as well as participate in a variety of physical and intellectual challenges. Twelve-year-old Sam Moritz has been training and playing squash for the past three years, with outstanding results. He is currently placed 1st in NSW and 11th in Australia in the under 13 years boys competition. He has been selected to represent the North Coast Combined High School Squash Team at the state level. “To continue to grow as a squash player, I need to gain more experience on the court at tournaments here at home as well as travelling, and to continue my training with my coach, the owner/operator of Coffs Harbour Squash and Swim Centre,” Sam said. The Junior Grant will enable him to pursue his goals and cover costs of registration for upcoming tournaments in Coffs Harbour for the NSW State Titles, as well as provide funds for extra coaching and travel expenses. The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes from supporting our great locals, so, if you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today: www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au

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X-Corp Building Services Pty Ltd is A FAMILYOWNED BUSINESS CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN THE COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, specialising in office and shop fit-outs.

78 Coffs Coast focus

business with a family core, the team is made up of Garry (Director), Ben (operations manager and Garry’s son), Michael (site supervisor and Garry’s son in-law), Ken (labourer and Garry’s mate from all the way back to preschool), Joel (carpenter apprentice and cabinet maker), Fraser (carpenter) and last but not Least, Virginia (office manager). FOCUS spent some time with the X-Corp group, who talked about their lengthy time in business, their successes and community connections … What is the history behind X-Corp Building Services? Garry Charnock (X-Corp Director and

In 1984, Garry moved his family to the Coffs Coast after a holiday visiting his in-laws.

Founder) was born in his wife, Jenny fell in love Gilgandra, NSW. He with the area and decided He and his wife, Jenny started his apprenticeship to make it their new home. fell in love with the area in carpentry in 1975 His first job working on and decided to make it at the age of 16 years the Coffs Coast was as their new home. with Wallace & McGee a form worker, and the Constructions, who first project he worked on specialised in the was the existing Council construction of schools, building. He quickly rose to hotels, and other commercial buildings from run a team of workers, completing many other Dubbo to Bourke and everywhere in between. buildings around the Coffs Coast in the mid He worked with W & M Constructions for a 1980s. period of nine years. After completing his time doing formwork, In 1984, Garry moved his family to the Coffs Garry started working for Lubans Constructions Coast after a holiday visiting his in-laws. He and in 1986 as a carpenter.

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Over the next 18 months he rose to site foreman. In this role he oversaw the construction of many well known buildings around the Coffs area, Some of which are • The Original Mall in Coffs CBD • The two buildings that now house the City Library and Centrelink offices • The Promenade • Sportz Central • The C.ex Stadium complex (of which he is one of the founding 250 members) • The City 3 Cinemas and many more We started to complete He was with Lubans commercial maintenance Constructions for for companies such as a period of around Australia Post, Roads & 11 years, before the Maritime, Army, Police founder and director and Fairfax Media around Peter Lubans decided the north and north western areas to pursue other of NSW, and this is continuing ventures and close the today. company at the end of 1997. On the 22nd May 1998, X-Corp Building Services Pty Ltd was founded. We set up business in a little office off Lawson Crescent that local Bob Cruickshank of Cruickshank Real Estate leased to Garry at a good price, to help get the business on its feet. We remained in this office until 2003, when we moved to our current offices on Isles Drive, that we constructed for local

businessman Andrew Smith. The business originally started off after Garry was approached by the properties department of Australia Post Office to complete refurbishments of their Post Offices up and down the coast. These jobs mostly consisted of attending the site on a Friday afternoon, demolishing the entire retail area and completing a new one ready to be opened on the Monday morning. These Post Office refurbishments carried on for the following few years and kept us busy, so we would like to take the opportunity to thank those members of Australia Post who helped us start off. From there, we started to complete commercial maintenance for companies such as Australia Post, Roads & Maritime, Army, Police and Fairfax Media around the north and north western areas of NSW, and this is continuing today. How has the business changed since it started? Being a family run business, it has evolved to employ more staff, and as such has been able to take on more work in and around the Coffs Coast area. Currently there are six full-time staff and a couple of contractors who will be regularly seen around Coffs Harbour. The staff are made up of Garry (Director), Ben (operations manager and Garry’s son), Michael (site supervisor and Garry’s son in-law), Ken (labourer and Garry’s mate from all the way back to preschool), Joel (carpenter apprentice and cabinet maker) and last but not least, Virginia (office manager).

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One of these sub contractors

who deserves a special mention is Fraser Duryea from Duryea Carpentry Pty Ltd. He has brought a

special touch to a lot of our recent fit-outs with his love and passion of the carpentry trade.

With this employment expansion, it has caused us to grow physically as well, so in January of this year we expanded to occupy the shed and office next door. This gave us an opportunity to complete a little office fit-out for ourselves. In addition to the full-time staff, we have a great deal of very reliable and skilled tradesmen and sub-contractors who regularly work with us on our jobs. These trades all understand the time pressures and deadlines that they need to work with to get the works completed in a timely fashion.

Congratulations to the X-Corp Building Services team on reaching their 20 Year Anniversary. From all of us here at Andersens Coffs Harbour Visit us at 7 Collison Place, Coffs Harbour or call 6651 7171 80 Coffs Coast focus

One of these sub contractors that deserves a special mention is Fraser Duryea, from Duryea Carpentry Pty Ltd. He has brought a special touch to a lot of our recent fit-outs with his love and passion of the carpentry trade. He loves to work with timber and can make some very special things with it. He added his special touch to these following fit-outs: • Popla Restaurant & Bar • McDonald’s South Coffs Harbour • McDonald’s Nambucca • Coffs Coast Audio • Our own office extension • Many more What services does X-Corp offer? X-Corp offers many services, but primarily focuses on fit-outs and commercial maintenance. The saying “no job is to small or too large” really does apply to us. We can complete a very small job taking an hour or less, to a complete or a fit-out taking a few months or more. With the wide range of skilled tradesmen, we are to complete many different jobs at one time. We can work to client provided plans, or we can help to have the job completed from the ground up, including plans and all necessary approvals from relevant authorities. This creates a “one stop shop” - we become the go between for the clients to the contractors, landlords and authorities. With this approach we try to make the whole process of the build as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

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P O P L A Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. We have just completed the Banana Coast Credit Union retail branch at the newly completed Coffs Central. It opened in Mid-July, and it promises to be a very inviting way to complete all your banking needs. We are also very excited to have been appointed the contract to build the new BCU Corporate Office at Coffs Central Shopping Centre. With BCU’s continued growth from Port Macquarie to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, they have remained dedicated to supporting the NSW North Coast where they began in the early 1970s. X-Corp will be completing the fit-out of their new 1,500 square metre office over the coming months, where BCU can continue to

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invest back into the local community by providing jobs and supporting local trades, services and suppliers. Also, in Mid-July we undertook a renovation of the reception area of Nolan Partners real estate office in sunny Sawtell. We consulted with Melissa, Scott and Billy to come up with a fresh new area that was inviting for both the team and their clients. The result is a very professional, clean and on-trend reception that really suits the ever-changing streetscape of First Avenue in Sawtell. Along with this, we are completing many smaller but no less important jobs around the Coffs Harbour area. What makes you stand out in the industry? We understand the importance to complete the works to a budget and on time for our clients. We understand that if either of these

things are blown out or not adhered to, it can have a big effect on the financials of a client’s bottom line. We work closely with the clients in the lead up to the works, to ensure all bases are covered. This ensures that when the works do commence, everything goes ahead smoothly, on time and on budget. In the event there is a hiccup (as we all know, “stuff” happens sometimes) we have done the due-diligence to make decisions quickly, to ensure the finished product is exactly what the client requires and envisioned. Our many years in the fit-out industry have given us the knowledge and experience to be able to advise our clients on the latest material, products and on-trend finishes. This gives our fitouts an edge, uniqueness and longevity, ensuring our clients’ businesses are top of mind with their

customers. Tell us about some of your loyal customers and suppliers ... We pride ourselves on having many long-term clients/customers, many of whom have been with us for the 10 plus years - some of them from the conception of X-Corp. We have built some great partnerships and have lots of return and new business from the word of mouth from these same valuable clients. X-Corp has been involved in completing many buildings and infrastructure projects at the Coffs Harbour Airport. Some of the works that we have completed are the converting of the outdoor carpark to a paid facility, initially building and extending the security car park on three separate occasions, constructing and supervising the

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installation of a new switchboard and back up generator to run the whole Airport in the case of a power outage, the supply and installation of walkways to enable travellers to get from their car, bus or plane to the terminal without being affected by the elements, the upgrading of the bathrooms in the terminal and many other projects over the last 20 years. Over the last 20 years X-Corp has been involved with the Coffs Harbour Education Campus in completing works ranging from regular maintenance works, minor modifications to complete office refurbishments. More recently we have had the pleasure of working with the Coffs Harbour Senior College. In March of this year we completed a refurbishment of their administration area.

“Our new administration area is amazing. Ben and the X-Corp team made it all seem so simple. Nothing was ever a problem, and the construction was finished in a couple of weeks. The attention to detail and commitment to quality was impressive. We have a stylish, functional area that will stand the test of time. Thank you, X-Corp!” - Dianne Marshall, Coffs Harbour Senior College. Mums and dads who are regulars to drop offs at Bishop Druitt College would have noticed our vehicles at the college a lot over the last 10 years. We have had the pleasure of working with the school on various projects over this time. At the start of each year, Ben and Michael’s children can be heard telling the newcomers to the school: “My dad built the playground”. As well as this

project and many others, we have completed the undercover walkways which run all around the college to help the kids, teachers and parents get around with comfort. Another proud partnership we have had the pleasure of being associated with is Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology. We have completed multiple fit-outs in many locations up and down the coast over the last 10 years and provide commercial maintenance around the Coffs Coast collection centres and Laboratory. “X-Corp have performed fit-outs and

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maintenance for Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology for over ten years. Their work is always of the highest standard, compliant with all relevant guidelines and legislation that apply to our sites, and always completed on time, if not earlier. Nothing is too much trouble for Garry, Ben, Michael and their team, and their customer service is outstanding. All of the team are friendly, helpful and always go the extra mile to ensure the finished job is presented on budget, on time, clean and ready to start, with a smile!” - Sue Keher NSW Laboratory Group Manager.

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Locals of the Coffs Coast would know and recognise our home grown Banana Coast Credit Union. X-Corp has been partnered with BCU for the last decade, and in this time has had the opportunity to complete refurbishments and commercial maintenance works in most of their branches up and down the coast. As well as completing the new Coffs Central branch and currently in construction of the Corporate Office, one of the most impressive fit-outs we have been involved with while working with BCU is their Flagship Branch. This branch, located at Park Beach Plaza, is a very different way to complete your banking needs. It boasts a kids’ play area, café and comfortable internet banking area, as well as the standard banking inclusions. Another valuable client that has kept us busy over the last 10 years is McDonald’s in Coffs Harbour, Grafton and Nambucca.

always there to make sure his section of the works is completed on time and professionally done. He is backed up by a skilful team of tradesmen and sales staff who always exceed expectations.

In this time, we have proudly been given the job continuing to upgrade the restaurants to keep up with the way McDonald’s Australia adapts to changes in their section of the market. This has included the conversion of single lane drive throughs to dual lane, the installation of ordering kiosks in all the restaurants and extensions to serve McCafé in the drive throughs. The most exciting works came in the last quarter of 2015, when we were appointed the job to complete the refurbishment of the South Coffs Harbour store. This was followed by the complete new fit-out of the new Nambucca restaurant located in the new service centre at Nambucca Heads late last year. These two jobs were a great opportunity for us to show what we could do, and we are very thankful of the

trust that Dave Munro (Director) showed in a local business like ourselves to complete these works for him. “X-Corp building services recently renovated our Coffs Service Centre Restaurant and fit-out our new Nambucca Highway Service Centre Restaurant. The team at X-Corp were professional, reliable and a pleasure to work with. From the start of both projects until the very end, and even post-completion support has been exceptional. They not only met their deadlines, but often exceeded them, whilst communicating with myself and the team the whole way through, providing updates, solutions to problems and a great sense of pride to complete the job right and to great quality the first time. Both restaurants were finished exceptionally well; the attention to

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detail and workmanship was of a very high level, whilst helping our business manage our customers so we were still able to trade the whole way through the process - and it was never an issue for the team. We highly recommend X-Corp building services, not only for their workmanship but the genuine local care they have for each job they complete. Thanks team.” - Mitchell Ballantyne, Restaurant Manager. As well as these loyal clients, we have some very loyal suppliers who have supported us throughout the last twenty years. One of these suppliers that has been with us for a long time and is always there to help and understands the time frames that we are working with is Andersens Coffs Harbour. Peter Meagher the Director is always there to make sure his section of the works is completed on

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time and professionally done. He is backed up by a skilful team of tradesmen and sales staff who always exceed expectations. So, in 2015 when he asked X-Corp to complete a new showroom for him, we jumped at the chance. “Quality, communication and finishing on schedule were our criteria for getting the Andersens large new showroom finished in time for our opening date. X-Corp did not disappoint in any of these categories. “Exemplary site/project management and the friendliness of all their tradespeople made what could have been a nervous breakdown, smooth and painless.” - Coffs Harbour

In this time, we have proudly been given the job

Andersens. continuing to upgrade Another supplier the restaurants to that has been there to move their office we keep up with the way support us where they jumped at the chance McDonald’s Australia can and always excel to complete the fit-out adapts to changes in their in the workmanship for them. section of the market. produced is SGA. Matt, “SGA have been a Sean and the team are supplier of residential very approachable and windows and doors to knowledgeable about X-Corp Building Services their product. They understand the time for approximately two years now. Our service pressures that are part of the works and commitment to their business is certainly a always find a way to make it work. Again, reflection of theirs to the consumer. “From start to finish, Garry, Ben and his as with Andersens, when SGA decided to

team ensure that the process is seamless, ensuring all aspects of communication, workmanship and deadlines are either met or exceeded. “Together, Garry’s “old school” approach to customer service and Ben’s innovative means of managing the team complement each other to create an exceptional business model.They are also respected members of the local community; they support local projects and charities, making them an asset to the Coffs Coast community.”

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“Congratulations to the X-Corp team on such a great milestone! We have no doubt that your business will continue to prosper throughout the coming years and well into the future.” - Matt Galvin, Acting Director. A business that is very familiar to Coffs Coasts residents is Mike Blewitt. X-Corp has been a customer for the past twenty years and have always been looked after, whether it is buying a new car or ute or getting regular servicing completed. In 2016, Ben received a call from Todd Blewitt asking if X-Corp would be interested in completing a new Mercedes Showroom for him. Since then we have completed many other projects for Todd and look forward to the future working with the Mike Blewitt team.

In 2016 Ben received a call

Some may see them “X-Corp is a great from Todd Blewitt asking if as old school values, but local family business that X-Corp would be interested they are the business we have dealt with over in completing a new qualities that our office some 20 years. Mercedes Showroom for manager Virginia fell “Ben has had big shoes him. Since then we have in love with when she to fill, but I have found completed many other joined X-Corp three years him to be more than up projects for Todd and look to the challenge. He is ago. forward to the future working with customer focused and “First impressions the Mike Blewitt team. results driven. really stick with me. “Congratulations, You must do something Gary, Ben and team, miraculous for me to and we look forward to change my opinion of working with you both for another 20 years” you if you haven’t put your best foot forward Todd Blewitt, Dealer Principal. when we meet. Since conception, what has been the most “During my initial interview with Garry and important thing to you as a local trade? Ben, I knew straight away that X-Corp was

going to be a perfect fit for me. Garry talked about how his company had grown over the years, but during this time his core values had remained the same. “It was important to Garry that as a local trade he took pride in the fact knowing that he treats his clients and supportive sub-contractors with respect. Garry said that he lives and works amongst the people of the Coffs Coast, and his core value was to treat people how he wanted to be treated and he would never cross the street for anyone. Garry’s fundamental belief has directed X-Corp on the right path and fulfilled his goals. “I think it’s testimony in itself to the success.”

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During my initial interview with How important is We have a very Garry and Ben, I knew it to support local talented and wide range straight away that businesses? of businesses available to X-Corp was going to be We feel that supporting us in the Coffs Harbour a perfect ﬁt for me. Garry local business is a must area. talked about how his company for the community; local What do you enjoy had grown over the years, but businesses employ locals most about living on during this time his core values and keep money local. the Coffs Coast? had remained the same. We have all seen the We thought Michael unfortunate results when would like to answer this out of town businesses question for us. come in promising the “The Coffs Coast world, only to go backwards or even worse gives everyone that lives in the region the go into administration. This can leave a bad opportunity to have an amazing lifestyle, taste in the mouth and an even bigger hole in without the hustle and bustle of city life.” the pockets of local businesses that supported “Our staff at X-Corp is multi-generational, these out of towners. from those just starting a family to those empty

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nesters (yes, Garry and Ken, we are being polite). This lifestyle that we are blessed with allows the family walks taken along the south wall to a walk along Woopi main beach, where you can see a shipwreck to being able to be in a rainforest in minutes, or hop on a plane and you’re in Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne - not to mention the beautiful dinners at a good restaurant. “But the Coffs Coast is so much more - we have excellent educational facilities, such as the education campus and great private schools. We have amazing medical facilities and specialists; this all adds to the stress-free environment we on the Coffs coast often take for granted, because it’s all just there at our fingertips. Lucky for us, it just keeps on growing.

“The Coffs Coast has a sense of familiarity, whether you know the person who’s serving you in the shop or you’ve struck up a conversation with someone you once knew that lived around the corner 20 years ago, there’s always that sense of six degrees of separation. You can’t always pick the six degrees, but there’s always that thought in the back of your head, ‘Wow, I know you from somewhere!’ I think this adds to the small town feel which so many of the townships in the area still have. “So, I guess what we love about the Coffs Coast is what everyone wants out of life, and that’s to be happy ... and family, friends and a supportive, caring community are possibly one of the best recipes to make this possible.”

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