Manning Great Lakes - issue 63 by Focus

Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES

WaterAid

May 2012 // issue 63

inside this issue.

craig anderson A DV E N T U R E R AC E

SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

An exciting one day event, The Forster Adventure Race on May 12 will attract upwards of 200 entries.

This annual event, now in its 14th year in Gloucester, celebrates the world’s most lauded playwright, the Bard.

RESCUE SQUAD Be part of Taree’s own volunteer emergency rescue organisation’s Weekend on Wheels.

editor's note.

editor.

from the

e’ve settled well into our new office at Forster, enjoying a steady flow of visitors streaming through the door. For anyone wanting to visit the new FOCUS office, you’ll find the entrance on Wharf Street (lakeside) just one door up from Gloria Jean’s. Make your way up the stairs, and you’ll find our industrious office busily working away at bringing another edition of FOCUS together for our estimated 48,000 readers. FOCUS warmly welcomes Siobhan Rudman to the team in her role as Advertising Consultant. Over the previous weeks, Siobhan has done a wonderful job working on this month’s ‘Animal Mania’ special feature. Advertising Consultant Chrissy Jones has done an equally excellent job creating our Home of the Month spread. Great work ladies!

ON THE COVER Regular visitor to our area, freestyle surfer Craig Anderson, features on this month’s cover. I caught up with Craig recently to talk about his love of surfing in our area. Enormous thanks go to Bosko (Peter Boskovic) – Senior Photographer at WAVES magazine for

Karen Farrell

supplying our awesome cover shot and local inside surf shots of Craig. Thanks also to Benny Sounness from NCAC, for hooking me up with Craig for this interview. INSIDE THIS ISSUE There’s lots of sporting action in the publication this month. We catch up with husband and wife duo and ardent sports enthusiasts, Wayne and Vanda Gooley, to find out about their preparations for the Forster Adventure Race. We also hear from Dan Brauer, Planning Manager at MidCoast Water, who has a strong connection with WaterAid, witnessing some of their work in India in 2007. Dan is joining fellow triathlete, Adam McMahon, to compete in the Australian Ironman triathlon as part of his personal quest to raise funds for WaterAid. For those wanting a cultural injection in May, look no further than Gloucester, with the Gloucester Writer’s Festival and Shakespeare Gloucester taking place this month ... read about them both in this issue. Local photographer Judith Conning regales us with details of her recent trip to Yellowstone National Park to take in some wolf watching ...

contacts. Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: Suite 2 / 42 Wharf Street, Forster 2428 PHONE: 02 6555 3381 FAX: 02 6555 7338 EMAIL: mglinfo@focusmag.com.au WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au

On Sunday 13 May we celebrate Mother’s Day ... in this issue we bring you some ideas on how to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day. In May, I also proudly celebrate the 10th birthday of my son – Happy Birthday Oscar! To earmark this milestone ‘double digit’ occasion, Oscar will become the eager owner of a new pet snake – a ‘Children’s Python’... I didn’t predict I’d have a snake living with me when Oscar was in utero a decade ago ... motherhood: what a delectable, complex and ever-evolving journey it is. EDITOR’S PHOTO Our resident photographer, Craig Mason, took this image of a sunrise at Main Beach, Forster ... Craig tells me he’s not a morning person – lucky he rose early this day to capture this beautiful image bursting of life. LAST WORDS “Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother.” Oprah Winfrey.

Karen Farrell – Editor karen@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Karen Farrell

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER:

karen@focusmag.com.au

Louise Beaumont

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul

louise@focusmag.com.au

dylan@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Siobhan Rudman

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

siobhan@focusmag.com.au

jay@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones

GRAPHIC / WEB DESIGNER:

chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

Michael Marchment

COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins

michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone

reg@focusmag.com.au / jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER: Craig Mason, East Coast Photography 02 6554 9703 / 0411 846 084 www.eastcoastphotography.com.au

kyle@focusmag.com.au

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

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

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Manning-Great Lakes Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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Aid. WaterAid is a charity organisation tion exclusively exclu l sively dedicated to providing safe and drinkable domestic water, sanitation and hygiene education to the world’s poorest people.

hus far, the non-government organisation has assisted some 8.5 million people in accessing clean water through its affordable sustainability projects and technology, which ultimately provides communities with autonomy over its water requirements. MidCoast Water became a foundation member of WaterAid in 2005, when the charity first became active in Australia. Dan Brauer is the Planning Manager at MidCoast Water and has had a strong connection with WaterAid, witnessing some of their work in India in 2007. On May 6, Dan is joining fellow triathlete, Adam McMahon, to compete in the Australian Ironman triathlon, being held in Port Macquarie, as part of his personal quest to raise funds for WaterAid and transform the lives of those less fortunate than us. Karen Farrell spoke to Dan about his quest. Dan, MidCoast Water is a foundation member of WaterAid Australia. The international organisation works with local partners to initially understand issues in developing communities and subsequently manage practical projects which meet ‘basic human rights’, such as having access to drinkable domestic water. Please tell us about WaterAid Australia’s overarching vision? WaterAid’s vision is of a world where everyone has access to safe water and sanitation. These are the basic services which support the health of a community and in turn, allow people to become educated, gain employment and improve their overall wellbeing. WaterAid’s approach includes using practical examples from their projects to demonstrate good practice through global advocacy. WaterAid aims to change policies and practices in the developing countries around the world that impact upon people’s access to these basic needs. In Australia, WaterAid seeks to work with the Australian Government to advocate and influence its international aid and development assistance program, that aims to improve the lives of people in extreme poverty in the East Asia and Pacific region. WaterAid works with a variety of partners, to ensure their work has as much impact as possible. These partners include local organisations and

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governments within host countries and other international non-government organisation (NGOs). WaterAid gets the best results from their projects when delivered by local people who understand the problems WaterAid’s ene and can see and own the solutions. approach to hygignises co re n io ot What sort of technologies does om pr t that people do no WaterAid Australia introduce viour ha be r ei th ge an ch into communities to assist them ey th e us ca be simply alth with planning, constructing are told about he and ultimately managing and establish a water benefits. maintaining their own projects? and sanitation WaterAid introduces very simple project in the village, technologies which can be easily there was a tremendous obtained, constructed and maintained by host celebration. They were so communities. This is really important in ensuring grateful and so welcoming. the long-lasting benefits of their projects. The exciting thing was to see the difference In all projects WaterAid delivers, the education that it made to this community. It was the and capacity building of community members women that took the lead – they were the ones underpins the success of the project from the with chalk in hand drawing designs for where the outset. toilets and water systems should go. And they Planning is done with the community to first were the ones who learned to build and maintain of all identify where their sources of water are the systems as well. and where people would go to the toilet. In a By educating people on good sanitation small village in India, I witnessed this process and hygiene practices, WaterAid Australia is take place, where women started to draw a ultimately striving for improved health and plan of the village with chalk on the court yard. livelihoods. Tell about these practices ... On this day, the whole community looked on in Through hygiene education, WaterAid anticipation, as they started to understand this encourages people to replace their unsafe was the first simple step in changing their lives. hygiene practices with simple, safe alternatives. Once suitable locations for new water sources Most people in the communities WaterAid or latrines are identified, construction of these works in are only too happy to use clean water items is usually performed by community for drinking, cooking and bathing once it is members using locally available materials. This readily available. has the added benefit of providing employment WaterAid’s approach to hygiene promotion and increasing trade skills within the village. recognises that people do not change their You have seen firsthand the benefits of behaviour simply because they are told about WaterAid in struggling communities in health benefits. People are just as strongly India. Could you please tell us about your motivated by improvements in privacy, experience? convenience, environmental cleanliness, selfAn engineer with MidCoast Water, I was esteem and social status resulting from changes involved with a WaterAid community project in in sanitation and personal and household Gwalior, India, in 2007. At first we went to a hygiene. village where there was no clean drinking water While in India, I saw how the education and no sanitation. of good hygiene practices within whole I will never forget the images of the mothers communities had a strong link to the basic with sick and dying children and the daily lessons learnt in primary schools. Simple conditions these people endured. The children messages such as keeping water pots covered were unable to go to school, because they were when they are not in use, and using a sanitary so ill, and their mothers were unable to earn latrine instead of going to the toilet in the bush money to support their family. were taken home by the school kids, who then When the people heard that we were going to taught their families.

Adam McMahon and Dan Brauer.

What is involved in terms of working with local governments in developing communities? Local governments in many of the countries in which we work have been given the responsibility, but not the skills or resources, to develop water and sanitation in their regions. WaterAid therefore aims to work closely with local governments to develop their capacity to carry out their work effectively. Along with fellow triathlete, Adam McMahon, you’ve set yourself a $10,000 fundraising target to raise money for WaterAid at the impending Australian Ironman Triathlon on May 6. The triathlon includes a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike ride plus a 42 km run ... how are you preparing for the event? Adam and I are putting in up to 25 hours a week to prepare for the event – running, cycling, swimming, completing sessions at the gym and even yoga classes, to improve our flexibility and focus. What are some of the ways in which WaterAid would utilise the $10,000? We are dedicating our fundraising target of $10,000 to provide water and sanitation systems for schools in New Guinea. The project would benefit some 500 children and their families. Thank you Dan. FOCUS wishes Dan and Adam the best of luck with their endeavours.

the plug! Ironman Australia is on in Port Macquarie on the 6 May 2012. Donations to Adam and Dans’ Ironman Campaign for WaterAid can be made to: www.everydayhero.com.au/ IronmenforWaterAid

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Weekend on Wheels The Taree Volunteer Rescue Association (Taree Rescue Squad) has been serving the Manning District since 1975 and was formed in response to Taree North Rotary, who recognised a real need to establish an independent and self-managed volunteer emergency rescue organisation in the area.

Issue 63 - May 2012

Volunteers

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community. The ability of people to willingly donate their time and energy to meaningful causes and organisations makes for much enrichment of our community.

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usual suspects.

the

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9. what’s on for May 39. star guide with Terri 16. eat featuring local restaurants 47. tourism update with Richard Old

Winter Splendour Local photographer Judith Conning recently returned from a visit to Yellowstone National Park after photographing both the park and the wildlife in all its winter splendour. Karen Farrell spoke to Judith about her most amazing adventure ...

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

www.focusmag.com.au or follow us on www.facebook.com/mgl.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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Th Anaconda Adventure Race was The hosted for four years by the Great Lakes, during which time adrenalin junkies and racers came from right across the country to participate in the challenging event ... Building on this success, the event has since been streamlined to take on the very best aspects of the Anaconda Adventure Race and has now been revamped as the Forster Adventure Race.

n May 12, entrants participating in the Forster Adventure Race will enjoy new tracks and trails, plus an upgraded and improved short adventure course. The popular Junior Spirit is also back on 12 May, providing local kids aged between 6 to 13 with a fantastic new course and some exciting surprises. Karen Farrell caught up with husband and wife duo and ardent adrenalin junkies, Wayne and Vanda Gooley, to find out all about the Forster Adventure Race. WG: You are President of the GLITA. What is the GLITA, and tell us about responsibilities as President of the organisation? The Great Lakes International Triathlon Association (GLITA) was formed over 25 years ago to run Ironman when it first began in our region in the mid 1980s. In those days, we had a large committee that worked tirelessly to stage an event that was of great benefit to our community. Over the past few years, our role has been to use our expertise in supporting other events which have come to town, including adventure racing and triathlon. My role as GLITA President is no different to any of the committee members, who are all hands on when it comes to staging an event. We have 15 members who contribute varying expertise and knowledge to each event we support. WG: The course is widespread; where are the best vantage points to see all the action? The Forster Adventure Race is an exciting one-day event showcasing the natural beauty of our region. The course is designed to have minimal impact on local business, with no road closures. A great vantage point to watch proceedings is on Elizabeth Beach where the swim leg will start and finish, before competitors head off on the run leg.

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F O R S T E R

Forster Main Beach will be another great seen the sun rise over many beautiful sights. spot to see the adventure race finish and be I found running difficult in the later stages on hand to watch the younger competitors in of pregnancy with my first child, when a dear the Junior Spirit friend gave me swimming lessons. Learning Competitors will cross main roads on three to swim at age 32 was a challenge. Now I occasions, where GLITA will provide accredited love ocean swimming with The Turtles local traffic marshals to control vehicle flow. These swimming group, under the fine guidance of are at the southern end of Boomerang Beach, Russell Jackson. the northern end of Blueys Beach and at the A few years ago I was an inspired volunteer end of the run leg at Bungwahl. This should at The Ironman Triathlon. Wayne and I decided ensure minimal disruption to people travelling to give triathlons a go, borrowed bicycles, and on our roads. we were quickly hooked. When The Anaconda WG: How many entrants are you came to Forster I didn’t want to miss out and anticipating will enter the race, and in was ready for a new challenge, so purchased what capacity can people enter? an old mountain bike and entered a team. We are anticipating upwards I love that sport brings people of 200 entries across all together from all walks of life categories. So if you’re not and all ages – sport breaks up to do doing all four down many barriers. w fe Over the past en be s ha legs on your own, grab VG: Do you find living le ro years our e is rt pe ex r another two or three in such a pristine area ou e to us her friends and enter as a in supporting ot ve as the Great Lakes events which ha cluding team and enjoy the fun makes it easier to come to town, in and of such an event. fi nd the motivation to ng adventure raci VG: If there is a sporting exercise? n. triathlo event involving running, Absolutely yes! When I swimming, riding a bike emigrated from London to or just generally breaking a Forster, I knew I’d found paradise. sweat, you tend to be there ... I truly believe that anyone training when did your love of sport begin – and in any sport in The Great Lakes is blessed what do you love so much about it? to be surrounded by the most magnificent I started running at university to lose a few environment. Over the years, I have trained for kilos, after a rapid weight gain during my a variety of events, and the Great Lakes offers first year. I discovered that I certainly wasn’t every terrain for every event and discipline. a sprinter, but had endurance. I quickly got The Great Lakes is one big adventure the running bug and felt the benefits of playground, whether you’re exploring water endorphins and fitness. That’s over 30 years activities or are on foot or wheels. It would be ago and I’ve never stopped running, apart hard not to be motivated to exercise through from occasional injury. our National Parks and State Forests and Meeting Wayne and having a common through our beautiful coastline and beaches. love for running enhanced my passion for the VG: What sort of preparations and sport. We have travelled a lot and together, training have you been doing towards we felt that running was a wonderful vehicle racing in the Forster Adventure Race? to embrace and explore any place in the early I’m training for a couple of events at the morning hours. We’re lucky enough to have moment so I’m cross training, which I love –

mixing running with swimming and riding. In the Forster Adventure Race I am doing the 18 km run leg. I run 4 to 5 times a week and have been increasing my distances over the past weeks. I’ve also been including hill runs, with laps of Bennett’s Head and the Forster water tower, combined with some beach runs and stairs climbs. I’m now running with the gear I will wear and carry on the day. I will familiarize myself with the running course before race day. The week prior to the event, I will start to taper and treat myself to a massage. Through all my training I drink lots of water, eat a mainly vegetarian diet, but enjoy bubbles and a few naughty treats. I fall into bed early, 8.30 – 9pm and rise before the sun. It’s all about balance! VG: Are you participating as part of a team or solo? I am participating as part of team called ‘Kings and Old Things’ – I’m one of the old things! We (Leanne and Paul King, Greg Bow and me) made up a team in last year’s Adventure Race and had so much fun together, we decided to enter the same team for this year’s Adventure Race. The support, friendship and fun is priceless. The team’s run across the finish line is nothing less than euphoric. WG: Events such as these can be a significant boost to local economy by bringing visitors to the region – what are your thoughts on this? Whenever we have events in our region, we see an influx of visitors enjoying our cafés, restaurants and shops. Generally, we are a very welcoming community, and when visitors arrive there’s a great energy that ripples through our community. Our local economy must benefit from this influx and we should support each event for this reason – even if we are not personally involved. Thanks Wayne and Vanda.

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focusinterview.

artist profile

SMITH Blackhead local artist, Jeanette Smith, has long held a passion for the visual arts, previously consulting as an Interior Designer and more recently completing a Diploma in Fine Arts in 2009. As an artist, Jeanette has found exhibiting to be an integral part of her growth and artistic journey, recently opening Gallery Saltair, located at Diamond Beach.

aren Farrell speaks to Jeanette about her passion for nurturing local artistic talent, with the regular classes she offers at Gallery Saltair. How long have you lived in the Manning-Great Lakes and from an artist’s point of view, how does the area inspire you? I moved here with my family in 2000 as part of our sea change and getting out of the Sydney rat race. From the very beginning, I was enchanted by the Manning-Great Lakes region. Its beautiful lifestyle is a double bonus as an artist living here. Even for artists who aren’t into land and seascapes, the colours and textures alone are an inspiration. Basically, this area makes me feel alive. I have never suffered from painter’s block and instead, suffer creative overload. You initially opened Gallery Saltair as a way of capturing the tourist market over the 2011 Christmas period and are now entertaining the idea of keeping the gallery open due to its success ... how were you hoping to capture the tourist market? For the past two-and-a-half years, the idea of opening a commercial art gallery grew. I had to find the right place for a short-term lease and considering how busy we get each Christmas, I did think it would be a Christmas holiday gig only. The opening night was a great success, with paintings of my own, students and art friends selling to locals before the Chrissie holidays had even begun. The local artists and community and their extended families’ support was fantastic and frankly, a little overwhelming. I panicked there wouldn’t be enough art left for holiday visitors to view. I approached local artists to put some work in the gallery, and the word quickly spread. I then had artists knocking on my door. What a nice problem to have! I realised that the tourist market would be a bonus on top of local support. For artists wishing to potentially exhibit at Gallery Saltair, tell us about the space? I want this space to be a visual creation and constantly changing, with a steady rotation of work. I am a big believer in complimentary opposites or contrasting one painting to the

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next, including subject matter and mediums. I individually working on do change. This is to keep love to visit galleries and make a point of doing growing and experiencing something different. so wherever I go. My favourites are those with I welcome beginners who have always a contemporary edge, and this is what I want wanted to give painting a go (there are many Gallery Saltair to have and maintain – to be a latent talents ready to be discovered) as well commercial gallery and not just another shop. as accomplished artists who are interested The gallery is not overly large, with a stark in challenging their art practice. Once again, white floor and walls that help the art do all the complimentary opposites and the diversity talking. I have one black wall, again for contrast. enhance the fun we have as a group. It is very With the right work hanging, it can make a therapeutic. painting ‘pop’. You’re a strong promoter of fostering new I’m running the gallery as you would expect talent and often exhibit newly graduated any commercial gallery to operate. Artists are TAFE students’ work at Gallery Saltair. Why required to submit their work by email and if has it been important to you to have a it looks like we have a match, they are then commercial gallery for local artists? subsequently required to complete a contract and As a TAFE Fine Art graduate, I realised the ‘real’ inventory. art world can be pretty daunting. Part The feedback from visitors is of the TAFE’s professional practice that the standard and diversity encourages students to think ts tis ar l ca lo e within the gallery is simply commercially by approaching Th and community ed stunning. I want to remain venues to display their art and their extendt was true to fine art, as well as for potential sale, pricing families’ suppor nkly, supporting local artists their work and negotiating fantastic and fralming. he w and have managed to commissions. er a little ov e er th ed ck ni combine creative works How the graduates pa I gh art wouldn’t be enousitors from paintings to essential manage this transition left for holiday vi oil candles, hand fused after TAFE can be critical to to view. glass, hand painted jewellery, their artistic journey. I wanted sculptures, tiles, photography Gallery Saltair to provide a and hand spun wool. Eclectically, platform for those students and TAFE, it all comes together as a funky, edgy and and I’m thrilled that I can be a part of their stimulating palette. experience and hopefully offer some practical Students travel far and wide to participate assistance. in your art workshops. What do these Why has exhibiting played such a strong role workshops involve, and how often do you in your artistic journey? run them? I had to think hard for this question, Karen! My workshops have been running for three What does an artist paint a picture for – is it for years, with regulars from all over the Manninginstant gratification, or to store in the garage, or Great Lakes region – and some from as far as to admire for themselves? I’ve done all of these Barrington and Morpeth! The workshops are ... although for me, exhibiting has been a great definitely not too technically demanding, and learning experience. It has also given me an I encourage the palette knife style for that audience and now a following. reason. It’s important students are guided on an As an artist, it is a huge thrill to see people expectation-free journey of discovery, without moved so much by your art. It can’t possess constant critiquing. Development comes with them, and they then have to possess it. Acquiring the discoveries they make. Being hands-on a painting is a gift that keeps on giving. I had one heightens all their senses and makes the process painting paid off over 12 months – not ideal for very enjoyable. With a set painting group, the me, but I loved the fact that they ‘got’ what I‘d mediums, subject matter and what we are created. It was an itch that had to be scratched.

Gallery Saltair has confirmed that unless your art is visible, it can’t be admired or acquired, which is necessary to keep all artists on their journey. You’ve described your painting style as once having bordered on being abstract to now being of full abstraction influence ... explain to us what this means and how your style has evolved over the years? I do have a passion for painting with a palette knife, where it is near impossible to get a straight line. The left-hand side of the brain will want to auto correct the line you’re painting to what it is actually observing. It’s surrendering to the right of the brain to loosen up and going with what is developing in front of you. It demands your observation to really see your subject and not just be looking at it. It’s hard to explain, but I love this challenge, and I am embracing the unknown. It is this challenge that’s leading my journey to full abstraction, and I see this more clearly when reviewing the progression in my style. I am really enjoying this evolution. Abstract artists you greatly admire? My admiration for artist Nicholas Harding has been my greatest influence and continues to be – I want to do one of his workshops so much. Also Fred Williams, Yayoi Kusama, John Olsen, Brett Whiteley, Mic Rees and a photographer, Richard Woldendorp. What’s next for you? Being an owner/gallery director is demanding and satisfying. I do feel I’m in the right place at the right time. As long as Gallery Saltair expenses are covered, I’m keeping it happening. Thanks Jeanette.

the plug! Gallery Saltair is located 2/16 Diamond Drive, Diamond Beach, Hallidays Point. For all enquiries, including classes (group and private) plus artistic submissions, Jeanette Smith can be contacted on 0423 805 444. Jeanette@saltair.net www.saltairartandesign.com or search for us on Facebook under Saltair Gallery.

A R O U N D T H E R EG I O N / / M AY 2 0 1 2

what’s GLOUCESTER

F E S T I VA L

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A Separation. Taree Film Society will screen A Separation (PG) on Monday 21 May at Fay's Twin Cinema. A Separation is a compelling film that focuses on a contemporary Iranian middle-class couple who separate, and the intrigues which follow. The film has received top awards at film festivals around the world and the Academy Awards.

Shakespeare Gloucester

When Monday 21 May. Where Fay’s Twin Cinema. Moree info Membership enquiries and tickets available by phoning 6552 3476. email: tareefilmsociety@yahoo.com.au

When Gloucester, on May 11 and 12. More info Information Centre Phone (02) 6558 1408. M

On May 12, entrants participating in the Forster Adventure Race will enjoy new tracks and trails, plus an upgraded and improved short adventure course.

PLUS

The Junior Spirit The word is out – this year’s Junior Spirit is going to be huge. It will have a course full of challenging obstacles, stacks of fun, twists, turns and plenty of reasons to get amongst it. When Saturday 12 May @ 3pm – Main Beach, Forster. More info www.forsteradventurerace.com.au

An annual festival celebrating the works of William

Shakespeare will be held at the Gloucester Soldiers Club, Denison Street. See page 23.

www.shakespeareingloucester.com.au

Forster Adventure Race.

When Saturday 12 May – 7.30am. Where Elizabeth Beach in Pacific Palms. More info www.forsteradventurerace.com.au Free call 1800 802 692 / www.greatlakes.org.au

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27 Weekend on Wheels Wheells

Mid North Coast Bridal Expo.

On display there will be vintage, customised, street machines, hotrods and dragsters, a motorbike display, as well as an engine rebuilding competition. PLUS HEAPS MORE!

The annual Mid North Coast Bridal Expo is the largest and most informative expo held on the Mid North Coast. With an array of wedding experts on hand, great fashion parades and thousands of dollars in prizes.

When Saturday 26 May Where Jack Neal Oval, Cowper Street, Chatham. When Saturday 26 May. 7am to 5pm. Cost $2 per person; $5 per family. Contact Tony 0428 655 007.

When Sunday 27 May 2012; 11am to 3pm. Where Panthers Port Macquarie.1 Bay Street, Port Macquarie. Cost Adults $8, pensioners and school age children $4.

Sydney Symphony & Sinfonia presents

DVORÁ K’’S WEDNESDAY 30 MAY 7.30PM MANNING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE, TAREE SIBELIUS Finlandia GLAZUNOV Concerto for saxophone DVORÁK New World Symphony Benjamin Northey conductor Nicholas Russoniello saxophonist

ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY BOOK NOW! IN PERSON: Video Ezy, Victoria Street, Taree BY PHONE: (02) 6552 5699 ONLINE: www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec

BUY ONE ADULT TICKET, TAKE ONE CHILD FREE^

Australia’s most popular symphony as voted by ABC Classic FM listeners*. REGIONAL TOUR PARTNERS:

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS:

For information on the schools concerts, contact education@sydneysymphony.com or phone (02) 8215 4684 ^Booking and transaction fees may apply. Ticket prices include GST. For full terms and conditions see website. To reserve your free child ticket please call the box ofﬁce on (02) 6552 5699

manning-great lakes focus 9

Matters.

legallight.

[ with Alan T ickle ]

ear Alan, I was shocked to receive my renewal of house and contents insurance to discover that my premiums have sky rocketed from $1,700pa to over $7,000 for the year. The insurance company said it was due to flood cover and the various disasters. I am thinking of reducing contents insurance. What do you suggest, because I can’t afford that premium? IB. Dear IB, Thank you for this question because ironically, this week I have written to the Member for Lyne, Robert Oakeshott, concerning that very discussion, and I suggest FOCUS readers in the Paterson electorate write to Bob Baldwin MP, expressing concern over the blow out in insurance due to flood cover. I urge all readers, regardless of when your insurance is due, to ask your insurer for a quote as though you were taking up a new policy and then also shop around for a comparison (you can also use the internet). If you find that like many people, your insurance has blown out, first check whether or not you are in a flood area (local Council will tell you if you are not sure) and then write to your insurance company with the complaint, as well as your Federal Member. It appears that many insurance companies have either got it wrong, or people in non flood or disaster areas are subsidising affected policy owners. The Federal Government has been a leading player in ensuring that insurance companies cover floods, so bringing the Federal Members’ attention to this might force a Parliamentary enquiry or review over the escalation in premiums. The irony is that in one case I have seen, a commercial building in the business district has had no

increase in premium, yet a residence a block away has had an enormous increase in premium, with neither of the properties in a known flood area. So I suggest, do some homework on your insurance ASAP, rather than wait for the renewal. The risk of underinsuring or people not insuring at all will be a disaster of its own making. Dear Alan, I have been waiting for the past 5 years to regain losses from the GFC. How long do you think before the stock market gets back to the 2007 peak? FO. Dear FO, Please attend the seminar at Taree West Bowling Club on May 10 commencing 11am. Phone 6551 2333 to register and mention 'FOCUS' to be eligible for a prize to be drawn at the seminar. The presentation will include a Centrelink update, which in particular will cover the opportunities to claim the age pension while working part-time. Updates on the economy, asset allocation and expectations will also be discussed. Various asset classes such as International Property, Emerging Markets, and Small Caps have all performed strongly during the GFC recovery and while the income produced from leading Australia Shares continues to be way ahead of cash and fixed term investments, the ASX is a long way behind the US share market, for example, in recovery since 2007. Asset allocation and portfolio structure is therefore the key to being positioned to recover from the GFC. While individual advice is necessary, the seminar will give a broad outline of those issues, as well as some hints around Centrelink and income.

Justin Stack. CAN YOUR BOSS FORCE YOU TO WORK WEEKENDS? he rush to get rid of the weekend is gathering pace. Three banks and a major finance house – all big employers – have applied to Fair Work Australia to rule that weekends be considered normal working hours. The application proposes the span of ordinary working hours to be 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm on Saturdays, and 8am to 6pm Sundays. It’s all part of the push for a 24/7 economy, for employers to be able to demand workers be available to work at all hours. Or, as is often happening, to work broken shifts which suit the employer. But what if you don’t want to work weekends or late at night – even if there is a shift allowance? What if you’d rather be with family, friends, or playing sport? Do you have the right to say no? What rights do you have if you refuse? It pays to get good legal advice on this, so you are ready if your boss says it’s this way or the highway. Strange as it may seem, we have no legal right to a weekend. Under the Fair Work Act, there are provisions for making work hours 'flexible'. Basically, there are two types of worker when it comes to this issue. There is the traditional industry, where workers are

covered by an award. These awards have protections for workers, such as penalty rates. There are procedures and policies in place by which people can sort out a flexible work arrangement – if they’ve worked there for 12 months. The legal test for a worker’s right to refuse a demand to work weekends is whether they have 'reasonable' grounds. That definition can mean many things, and it’s best to get legal advice for each particular case. There is far less protection for casuals or contract workers. If a worker in this category refuses to work weekends and the boss treats them badly, such as demoting, discriminating against them or sacking them, it’s worth consulting an expert in employment law. They might have a claim against their employer if they’ve taken 'unreasonable, harsh or unjust' actions. Technology too has eaten into workers’ free time. Emails, texts and tweets from the office while at home, on weekends and holidays are the norm for an increasing number of workers. In Brazil, workers can claim overtime each time they get an outof-hours contact from work. What are the chances of that happening here?

This information and advice is of a general nature only and no reliance should be placed on the information before seeking individual advice from a Financial Planner and Taxation Adviser to ensure the appropriateness to individual circumstances. Alan Tickle and Your Heritage Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.

SAME AS LASTR MONTH. NEW COPY ABOVE

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manning-great lakes focus 11

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T A R E E

RESCUE SQUAD

o ensure it can continue its important work in emergency rescues, the organisation holds fundraising activities to generate donations from businesses, individuals, services, schools and clubs ... On May 26, the rescue squad is presenting Weekend on Wheels, to help spread awareness about the organisation and in the process raise money to purchase vital equipment used in emergency situations. Karen Farrell spoke to John Chick, Secretary and Public Relations Officer for Taree Rescue Squad regarding the big day. Way back in 1975, Rotarians recognised there was a need for a squad to assist in times of emergency ... how did it all start? The idea to form an Emergency Rescue Unit for the Manning Area took place in late 1975, with a public meeting in Taree. The guest speaker was the late Ray Tyson, who at the time was Officer in Charge of the Police Rescue Squad and Constable Bill Henning, of the Taree Highway Police Patrol. Nominations were called to form the rescue squad and 15 people were accepted with the squad, with it being called the Manning District Volunteer Rescue Organisation. So often in the media we hear of yet another rescue ... the volunteers are highly trained to perform all manner of rescues, such as removing people from a wrecked motor vehicle, taking part in dangerous mountain rescues or assisting in times of natural disasters. What sort of training is provided to Taree Rescue Squad volunteers? We provide free training to our volunteers in all aspects of emergency rescue, which includes road rescue, land search, cliff rescue and inland waterways. The volunteer does need to have a First Aid Certificate, or we 12 manning-great lakes focus.

can arrange for the volunteer to obtain one other job they need lighting for. at his or her own expense. Depending on We have simulated exercises with all the the individual’s dedication to improve their other emergency services, so we’re able to all knowledge and expertise, there are many synch in with one another if there is a major courses which they can undertake. accident. How long does it take a volunteer to We are called by NSW Police most of the become an accredited rescue operator? time through the Triple ‘0’ network, located Most volunteers take in Newcastle. When reporting an approximately six months to accident, it is very important to be accredited, and then they give the exact location, type will receive a State Rescue of the incident and number e id We prov r Board Number that stays of persons involved, as ou to g in in free tra aspects with them for life. This is it may cost a person volunteers in all scue, like any other certificate their life if the wrong of emergency reroad which includes ch, that people receive and information is given. rescue, land searinland need to keep updated to We do have a set d an cliff rescue keep their skills current. area to service, although s. ay w er wat The rescue squad needs because we are affiliated to to be at-the-ready to cope in our head body, NSW VRA, we any type of emergency and is on can be called upon to attend or call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. assist other services in any part of the How does the organisation prepare itself state. Some examples include the Newcastle around-the-clock for emergency situations Earthquake, Gosford Bushfire and the Thredbo including road accidents, storm assistance, Disaster. missing children and distressed animals? What sort of technology and equipment Taree VRA Rescue Squad has 12 accredited does the Taree Rescue Squad rely on to do members. The squad captain is aware of its job effectively? who is available at any one time … when an We use a lot of different types of equipment incident occurs, the squad is notified by pager and technology. The Unit relies on a variety of by VKG Newcastle Police stating the time, equipment to perform tasks that may confront position and type of incident to attend. With them. Hydraulic Equipment is used in rescuing major incidents, we then call on other specialist a person from motor vehicle wrecks. services for assistance. We also use ropes, harnesses, safety How does the organisation work with equipment in cliff rescues and chainsaws for other emergency services? cutting wood or metal. Portable radios and The squad works with all other emergency communication equipment are used at almost services – for example: NSW Police, NSW every incident, including searching for missing Ambulance, Rural Fire Brigade, NSW Fire persons or traffic control at motor vehicle Brigade, SES, WESTPAC Helicopter Service accidents. We also rely on generators and and even on occasions, The Surf Life Saving lights for night work. Association. The Police Service requires our What is vertical rescue? services for lighting at crime scenes or any A vertical rescue is when people or persons

are over cliffs or are caught up in trees and need assistance to become free. Some of the areas where we have had to work to free persons using vertical rescue include Crowdy Headland, Lansdowne Escarpment and Ellenborough Falls at Elands. Last October we were called to Old Bar, where a plane was flown into and became stuck at the top of a ferris wheel. How can people find out more if they’d like to become a volunteer? The best way is to come along to our headquarters building, at Muldoon Street, Taree on a Tuesday night between 7 - 9pm or by calling 6551 5550. People can also check out our website at www.tareerescuesquad.com or come along to Weekend on Wheels. On May 26, the Taree Rescue Squad is hosting Weekend on Wheels ... what is happening on the day, and why should people make a special effort to go along? This day has been organised because of an approach by Local Car Clubs & Taree VRA to promote the motor industry … on display there will be vintage, customised, street machines, hotrods and dragsters plus a motorbike display, as well as an engine rebuilding competition. CareFlight will run a static display of services they provide to the community. A dyno display will be present, along with live bands and food stalls. All profits raised on the day will go to the Taree VRA to upgrade essential rescue and first aid equipment. Thanks John.

the plug! Where Jack Neal Oval near Group Three Leagues Club in Cowper Street, Chatham. When Saturday 26 May. 7am to 5pm. Cost $2 per person; $5 per family. Contact Tony 0428 655 007.

focuseditorial.

... get involved and enjoy the g sport of bein a kid!

Great Lakes Business Awards. Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber has launched its 2012 Great Lakes Business Awards. Small businesses play a vital role in our region, providing jobs for thousands and enlivening our community. The awards highlight the diversity of local small business and recognise their achievements and successes. The Chamber encourages small businesses to enter the Awards. They provide an excellent opportunity to not only market and promote your business, but to also showcase your work through your peers. They also provide many networking opportunities to mingle with other like-minded business owners. At the 2012 Business Awards, prizes will be awarded in 13 categories for excellence, innovation and leadership. The Chamber is currently seeking sponsors in various categories, and we would like donations for door prizes and raffles. Sponsorship and donations for the business awards are a very effective method

to promote your business to a large community of influential and successful people. The 2012 Business Awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner on Friday 19 October 2012. We are pleased to inform you that our hosts for the evening are Mrs. Amy Heague, former Editor of FOCUS and Mr. Andrew O’Sullivan, former TV presenter on ABC’s Gardening Australia and popular celebrity presenter on Gardening Australia live shows. This is your opportunity to shine, showcase your business; don’t delay. Visit www.ftchamber.com. au for further information. You will also find links to help you identify categories appropriate to your business.

the plug! Register your email details to receive updates or phone 0499 779 972.

Adventure Race Junior Spirit G t sett for Get f the th kids’ kid ’ adventure d race, Junior Spirit! During April, Adventure Man and his crew of helpers have been busily getting ready for the Junior Spirit, being held on Saturday 12 May at 3pm – Forster Main Beach. Adventure Man reckons this year’s Junior Spirit course is the best yet, with its Mud Pit, Fisherman's Alley, Cargo Climb (thanks to the fellas at The Men’s Shed) and The Hay Stack (thanks to Mik's Pet Barn). Adventure Man hopes his visits to local primary schools will encourage kids to get involved and enjoy the sport of being a kid! To find out more about Junior Spirit go to: www.forsteradventurerace.com.au

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COVERSTORY

Surfers Joel Parkinson, Julian Wilson and Luke Egan have all been enjoying waves in the area recently. Pro surfers Craig Anderson (Ando) and fellow Quiksilver stablemate Dane Reynolds tore into some waves a few weeks back as well.

A N D E R S O N aren Farrell caught up with Ando to discuss what he loves about travelling up from his current Newcastle hometown to surf our local waves … You visited Forster-Tuncurry recently and were doing some film recording. What were you up to? That trip was for Monster Children magazine ... We had two photographers on the trip – one of them works for the magazine and the other one was a skateboarder photographer. We were also travelling with three surfers and four skate boarders from America and one Australian skate boarder. We just wanted to do an East Coast trip all the way from Sydney up to the Gold Coast. The skateboarders have surf boards and the surfers have skateboards, and we just hung out and surfed all up the coast. Nice! Was it a good trip? It was a really fun 10-day trip. I think we spent three of those days in Forster. You got some really good waves in the area over that period of time ... Yeah, we were pretty lucky. There are always really fun waves on the east coast around summer. We've got a really hard-core contingency of surfers here who would claim that it’s the best wave in the world. How would you rate surfing in our area compared to some of the other waves that you’ve travelled to? I would definitely agree with all the local guys. I always try get up here as much as possible. I can sort of compare it to D’Bar on the Gold Coast, but there you’re going to have like 50 or so people out in the water, and people say that D’Bar is one of the best waves in the world. I think Tuncurry is equally as good or even better, because of the crowd situation. For high performance surfing, I don’t think you can get any better … you get like a southerly wind off cross-shore and for any surfer who loves doing aerials, it’s pretty ideal conditions. There are obviously certain codes in surfing. It's just a really good crew of surfers here who understand the way it works, respectwise ... Yeah, for sure. To me, Forster’s still this little

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town with not that many people living there. I get out there a bit with a few of the local guys, and they have always been so cool. You travel to other places in the world and even in Newcastle, you get guys who don’t really enjoy themselves as much as opposed to Forster, where everyone’s just having a good time. At Tuncurry there’s a vibe in the water – everyone's just y happy to be surfing and I think Tuncuorr d go everyone’s friends. The as ly al is equ r, guys were so pumped or even betf te e th o se on how friendly the local becau ion. For at tu si d ow cr Totally. That’s exactly guys were and how cool erformance p h ig h the way I look at it, but k they were to everyone ’t thin surfing, I dotnan y sometimes when you’re out – they would wait their you can ge there and he is lighting up turn, whereas out at better. every wave, it's like, "Woah, Mereweather, if a good wave what am I even doing here!" comes through they just drop Do you think you’ll ever attack the in and paddle in the inside and take WCT? off. Up at Forster, everyone is just cruising. I just don’t think I could stand out in that So on the Quiksilver website, who you’re of arena in the way that I surf a wave. A lot of the course sponsored by, it says guys in the contest just viciously attack a wave, your style is “syrupy and effortless”… I’ve and I don’t like to do that. I like to sit back and also heard you say as well in let the wave do what it wants me to do. I just an interview that you have almost got a think if I started doing contests, I wouldn’t really lazy style – of course this wouldn’t go anywhere. be ‘lazy’, but perhaps relaxed. It's really interesting, I guess in a sense, I don’t really talk about my style in general … because for many surfers it's about being I always get a little weird when someone asks natural, and I guess what you’re saying is me about that because you know, I just paddle competition is in conflict with that. out there and get to my feet, and I can't really And all those guys who love to win, and think about what I’m doing … they’re really hungry. They’re just professional Just like the way a person walks or the way athletes, and I just don’t see myself as one of they talk. It’s just instinct, and surfing is those people. When I was growing up and second nature to you? competing, I won a heat, I lost a heat. I didn’t Yes, for sure. really care much about that stuff. What’s it like to share a few waves and a But then I see my younger sister, and she’s like road trip with your mate, Dane Reynolds? 19 and doing the WQS up at the Roxy Pro this I’ve been spending a bit of time with him year. She won the trials and got into the main over the last few months through the Quiksilver event; she’s just really motivated and wants to avenue. It’s super cool watching him surf. He win. I think she got that gene out of the family has just been up there with the best of the pool, and I don’t really care about proving world. In a row he will just pull off five crazy myself to people and judges. clips or layers. I get a little down seeing how On the WCT, who do you think will go well crazy he is at surfing, and I’m just sitting there. this year? It’s rad though; it's really cool surfing with him. I think Kelly will win again. I think he will keep It definitely lifts your standard of surfing. winning for however long he wants to win. Yeah, absolutely. I guess it's like sparring in Watching him surf up on the Gold Coast, he a way.

just looks amazing in the water. He just seems to have this freakish ability to always get the best waves, never falls off so I think he will win again. Would it be fair to say that he’s the best athlete of all time? He has got to be, for sure. He is up there with Michael Jordan and all those guys. It’s just how consistent he is – how many heats and contests he has won. The ocean is not like a basketball hoop where it’s not going to move; you can be out of rhythm with the ocean quite easily. There are just so many features when you're dealing with nature, and Kelly always seems to come up on top. What’s in your car CD at the moment? I’ve been getting into all the old stuff like the Rolling Stones and the Beatles and The Doors. What are you watching at the moment? I picked up a couple of old skate videos on the road trip, so I’ve been getting into those and looking for inspiration. What’s your favourite website? Check out www.stabmagazine.com for all the surfing and what’s going on in the surfing world. I also check out all the forecast websites. Reading? Check out Monster Children magazine … Thanks Ando. Interview by Karen Farrell. Thanks to Benny Sounness from NCAC for hooking me up with Ando. A massive thank you also to Bosko (Peter Boskovic) – Senior Photographer at WAVES magazine for supplying our awesome cover shot and inside surf shots of Ando. Check out Bosko’s shots at instagram, BOSKOPHOTO.

Redsand’s Alex Cosway shows Liane from Walker Lynch Petersen Accountants features of their brand new Samsung phone system. Michelle Newton (B.Bus.)

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Finding a Financial Planner you are comfortable with is important. That’s why Figtree offer an initial KƵƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚĂŬĞƐ ĂƐ Ă ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ƉŽŝŶƚ ʹ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĐĂŶ ǁĞ ĂĚĚ meeting at our cost.

ǀĂůƵĞ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ ǇŽƵ ĞŶũŽǇ ƚŚĞ ůŝĨĞƐƚǇůĞ ǇŽƵ ǁĂŶƚ͍ Your free ¿rst consultation is an opportunity for you to get dŽŽ ŽŌĞŶ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝƐ ĐĞŶƚƌĞĚ ŽŶ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƐ Žƌ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚƐ͘ to know us and for us to understand your current position ƚ &ŝŐƚƌĞĞ ŽƵƌ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚĞƐ ŽŶ and outline ways in which we might be able to add value to ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĨŽƌŵ ŽĨ we ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŐŝǀĞ your situation. Some of the areas cover include: ǇŽƵ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵƌ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂů ŶĞĞĚƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŵĞƚ͘ &Žƌ ĞǆĂŵƉůĞ͕ your ĨŽƌ lifestyle ǇŽƵ ŝƚ ŵŝŐŚƚ ŵĞĂŶ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵƌ • Reviewing and retirement goals. ĨĂŵŝůǇ ĂƌĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĞǀĞŶƚ ŽĨ ĚŝƐĂƐƚĞƌ͕ ƚŚĂƚ • Retirement income calculation (where you’re heading vsǇŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ĂŵŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ŝŶ ƌĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚ Žƌ where you need to be). ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ĞŶŽƵŐŚ ƚŽ ƐĞĞ ǇŽƵ ŽƵƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŶ • Superannuation performance review. ƚŚĂƚ ǁŚĂƚ͛Ɛ ůĞŌ ǁŝůů ĞŶĚ ƵƉ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ŚĂŶĚƐ͘ • Ensuring your Insurance needs are covered. KŌĞŶ ǁĞ ĐĂŶ ŵĂŬĞ Ă ƚĂŶŐŝďůĞ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ƚĞƌŵƐ • Reviewing your Tax position and Pension entitlements. ďǇ • Reviewing ƐƵŐŐĞƐƟŶŐ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ ǇŽƵƌ ƐĂǀŝŶŐƐ your Estate Planning arrangements. Žƌ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ͕ ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ĞŶƚƌĞůŝŶŬ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ Žƌ ƌĞĚƵĐĞ ǇŽƵƌ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĐŽƐƚƐ͘ Initial meetings typically run for 1.5 to 2 hours and involve ƋƵĂůůǇ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ƚŚŽƵŐŚ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ ͞ƐůĞĞƉ Ăƚ ŶŝŐŚƚ ĨĂĐƚŽƌ͟ you in no obligation on your part. ʹ ƚŚĞ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ĐŽŵĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ If we can demonstrate areas where we can help you, ĂƌĞ ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ ƚƌƵƐƚĞĚ ĂĚǀŝƐĞƌƐ ǁŚŽ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ ǇŽƵƌ then future services are provided on a transparent fee for ƐŝƚƵĂƟŽŶ͘ service basis. We do not charge a percentage of your

^ŽŵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƚŚŝŶŐƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐůŝĞŶƚƐ ƚĞůů ƵƐ ƚŚĞǇ funds under management and do not accept commissions ǀĂůƵĞ ŽƵƌ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ĂƌĞ͗ on investments. ͻ Our WƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ƚŽ ǇŽƵƌ and ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ʹ ŝĨ c ǁĞ advice ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ is totally unbiased tailoredƋƵĞƐƟŽŶƐ to your speci¿ ĚŽŶ͛ƚ ŬŶŽǁ ƚŚĞ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ Žī ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŚĞĂĚƐ ǁĞ ǁŝůů requirements. ŬŶŽǁ ŚŽǁ ƚŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ͘ If you would like to take advantage of advice that has only ͻ your ,ĞůƉŝŶŐ ǇŽƵ ŐƌĂƐƉ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĐŽŶĐĞƉƚƐ ďǇ onĞǆƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ best interests in mind then contact us now 1300 ĐŽŵƉůĞǆ ƌƵůĞƐ ƐŝŵƉůǇ͘ 651 539 to arrange your initial consultation. ͻ This ǆƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ ǇŽƵƌ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ ǇŽƵ ŵĂŬĞ ƐŽƵŶĚ information does not take into account your personal ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ ƌĂƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ĞŵŽƟŽŶĂů ƌĞĂĐƟŽŶƐ͘ circumstances, and is not intended to be personal advice.

manning-great lakes focus 15

Manning-Great Lakes

Cover Dish Lobster mornay: Tuesday lunch special from The Bellevue Hotel Bistro.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 16 manning-great lakes focus focus.

eat.

Coffee Grind

Bent on Food National award winning café/restaurant Bent on Food offers sumptuous cooking classes. Bookings currently available for:

Coffee Grind is a boutique coffee shop and café located in the Main Street of Forster. Friendly owners, Matt and Cara, invite you to come down and enjoy their beautiful breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea. With gourmet cakes, slices, freshly baked muffins and of course ... ‘the best coffee in town’.

Owners Cara and Matt.

59 Wharf Street Forster t 6557 5155

12 May 10am – 2pm

Breadmaking and Danish with Eric Robinson.

17 May 6pm – 9pm

Men only Thai with Barry Cunningham

26 May 10am – 1.30

Vietnamese with Donna Carrier

31 May Time TBA

Free kids shortbread making in conjunction with Scottish Fest

95 Isabella Street, Wingham NSW t 6557 0727 w www.bentonfood.com.au

open 7 days. From 8am.

open breakfast and lunch 7 days a week (phone to check hours on public holidays).

FLOW Espresso

Beach Bums

Experience the Mid North Coast’s newest beach venue. FLOW stands for ‘For Love Of Water’, and the café decor and ambience reflect this theme. The menu caters for the health conscious and the hungry, with a wonderful variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Enjoy dinner, drinks and live accoustic music from a variety of impressive local performers every Friday night from 6.30pm, or login into www.facebook.com/flowcafe to keep up to date on our ‘Sunday Sessions’, with $5 Coronas and Tapas menu. Two fully qualified chefs create culinary delights in the outdoor kitchen before your eyes. Kids’ play area, chill out lounge and alfresco dining – dinner bookings essential. Fully licensed. Locally Brewed Black Duck Bitter and Golden Goose Ale on Tap.

Beach Bums Café boasts a unique position situated five steps from the sand, overlooking Forster Main Beach. Great food and coffee are the heart of Beach Bums, but you won’t find the snobby coffee crowd here. What you will find is a delicious team, a sexy and simple menu, fresh tunes daily and a great atmosphere. Sit back, relax and watch nature at its best!

31 David St, Old Bar t 6557 4224 open 8am to 4pm Thur - Mon (Closed Tue and Wed) Dinners Fri and Sat night from 6pm. Fully licenced

Bec House with Donna Carrier.

Winter opening times Seven days, 6.30am - 4pm (weather permitting). Owners Kate and Darrin.

North & Beach Streets, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au open seven days 6:30am-4pm (weather permitting). manning-great lakes focus 17

eat. Relax with cake and coffee in our newly renovated café.

The Bellevue Hotel Bistro

Club Taree All new – Lilly Pilly Café – Open at 10am. Looking for a place to get together with friends over coffee? Want to satisfy your sweet tooth with a delectable slice, cake or dessert? Looking for a light option for lunch? Visit our all new café, open 10am daily. Featuring: • Hot and cold beverages • Home made desserts, cakes and slices • Extensive snack menu, freshly prepared daily

Chef Kevin Williams.

Have you experienced the Bellevue Hotel Bistro lately? Bring the whole family down and enjoy a great meal by the pool. Afterwards, the kids can have a dip or play in the games room. Come down on a Friday night and enjoy some quality fresh local seafood in the bistro and listen to great live music, or come and join in the fun on one of our feature nights (Monday – poker, Wednesday – trivia, Thursday – karaoke). Be sure to try our new lobster special, which is available every Tuesday for lunch (Half – $20.00 / Full – $28.00) or everyday lunch steak special for just $9.50. Also, keep your eyes out for shopper dockets, to receive your second main meal for just $5. Our experienced, friendly staff look forward to seeing you soon.

Our Chefs Hayley & Jason.

Manning Street, Tuncurry t 6554 6577

121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au

open 7 days. Lunch Mon - Fri, 11.30 - 2pm; Sat - Sun 11.30 - 2.30pm. Dinner: Sunday - Thursday, 5.30pm - 8pm; Fri - Sat 5.30pm - 8.30pm.

*Opening times vary.

Now open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

Bean Bar

3 Nippers Restaurant

Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, with an exclusive café menu, and à la carte dinner Thursday to Saturday. Tony, Ray and the staff at Bean Bar work effortlessly to prepare amazing meals in a waterfront venue, designed and fully licensed to cater for intimate functions such as weddings, business seminars and birthdays. Bean Bar has now introduced an amazing range of seafood, including oysters, seafood plates and platters, as well as expanding the night dining menu.

Our menu is a fusion of local produce, modern cooking techniques and cultural influences, with the new seasonal winter menu just released. Trading hours are 10.30am Tuesday to Sunday – lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday. So call today and book a table to avoid disappointment; the team at 3 Nippers Restaurant look forward to seeing you soon

1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022 open 7 days breakfast and lunch and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

18 manning-great lakes focus.

Head Chef John Barriball.

Head Chef Terrianne Moore.

Inside Australis Diamond, Beach Resort and Spa t 6557 3871 open: 10.30am Tuesday to Sunday - lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday.

eat. A dozen fresh oysters with pickled onion, Japanese mayonnaise, Atlantic Salmon caviar with baby celery.

Zebu bar + grill Treat mum to a special Mother’s Day on the waterfront with a scrumptious breakfast or lunch at Zebu Bar + Grill. Enjoy an à la carte or full buffet breakfast overlooking the water from 6.30am. Don’t miss out on Mother’s Day lunch. $45pp – two course reduced à la carte menu $55pp – three course reduced à la carte menu Live entertainment from Matt & Liz Bookings from noon. Bookings essential and deposit required for lunch seating. Breakfast - Coffee - Cocktails - 10 Tap Beers Wood Fire Pizzas - Steaks - Seafood Purveyors of Peak Coffee

MOORE. FROM 3 NIPPERS

Executive Chef Ben Holloway.

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

Raw Sugar Café Our food is prepared by our qualified chefs, using only the freshest local ingredients and served by experienced and friendly staff. Our specials board changes weekly! Don’t forget our fantastic fresh fruit smoothies, frappes and fresh juices. Come in and enjoy the five star experience today. Open for breakfast at 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am and afternoon tea until 4pm. Freshest local ingredients.

214 Victoria Street, Taree t 6550 0137 open 7.30am to 4pm.

ow long have you lived in the Manning-Great Lakes, and how long have you worked in the industry? I moved back to Forster four years ago with my partner, who is also a chef at 3 Nippers, to be closer to my father. I love the atmosphere of the coastal area we have. With over thirty years in the industry, all with the ups and downs, I have held some interesting positions – one being personal chef for Japanese pilots, who only wanted to eat Australian-type food. Who inspired your love of food? I was one of those lucky people that started cooking at an early age and loved it. With both parents working different hours, I had taken on the role of family cook, and I haven’t looked back since. What can people expect from your establishment when they come to dine? We have a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of options to choose from, to suit all desires. You are also able to dine either on the deck or in the restaurant, and once per month we run a set menu with live entertainment.The menu at 3 Nippers offers local produce with seasonal influences … with winter in our midst, what warm dishes will you be spoiling your guests with over the colder months? We are in the process of launching our winter menu as we speak, and I’m sure that our clientele will not be disappointed. Some of the items we will be adding are gourmet pizzas, pot roast of lamb shank with sweet potato bean and pepper ragout, chili salt squid and some heartwarming desserts. Tell us about some of your favourite ingredients to cook with? I have had the pleasure of using lots of different ingredients over time, but would have to say that seafood, pasta and poultry are my favourites.

The restaurant is now open from Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday morning (until the end of April from 8am 11.30) for breakfast. What delicious things are you cooking up for people to enjoy while eating brekky on the deck? We have a range of delicious items on the menu, from large pancakes with choice of toppings, big Nippers brekky to fluffy omelets with a creamy sauce topping. Although we will not be doing breakfast every Sunday from the end of April, we will still be having the occasional Sunday breakfast with live music. You cater for everything from weddings to small parties and large conferences. Could you tell our readers about your special events? Our venue offers a terrific function room, which can be expanded if you wish to book out the whole restaurant. We also cater to your personal needs, with a choice of menu options from canapés through to desserts. We will also be having a special function for Mother’s Day, as well as other functions throughout the year, including Melbourne Cup day, which will be a day of food, music and entertainment. What sets you apart from your contemporaries? We try to do things different than what others are doing; it also keeps the passion alive to try to be different. I found it difficult to start with, as this industry was a very male dominated one, but persistence paid of in the long run, and I think this shows in the way I do things. What are your plans for the future? It is my utmost pleasure to be working as Executive Chef here at 3 Nippers. The atmosphere is relaxed; we have a happy, talented and creative team, which all helps me achieve the goal of being the number one restaurant in this area. Thanks Terrianne.

manning-great lakes focus 19

focuseditorial.

SteveAttkins. Ste from Great Lakes Winery The best local produce, local chefs and local talents in the region.

Slice of Haven! It’s set to be a gastronomic trip around the world at the Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival in Laurieton. The region’s most popular gourmet event will be held on May 27, and the theme this year is 'Live Local, Eat Global – The World is our Oyster'. “The Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival showcases the best local produce, local chefs and local talents in the region,” said event coordinator Jenelle Nosworthy. “In 2012, we bring the world to the Camden Haven, celebrating all that is local with an international twist. We are challenging our stallholders to embrace the theme to treat customers to a taste of the world – international cuisine made from produce available on our very own doorstep.” Slice of Haven will be a feast for all the senses. The gourmet offerings will tempt young and old, talented musicians will provide a soundtrack to make you want to groove, quirky stilt walkers, international dancers and 'dressed-up' stalls will be a sight to see, and cooking demonstrations in the Essential

20 manning-great lakes focus.

Energy kitchen, rides and art workshop will let you get hands-on at the Slice experience. Grab your picnic blanket, family and friends and chill out at Slice of Haven from 10am 4pm, in one beautiful location – on the waterfront between the Laurieton United Services Club and the Camden Haven River at the end of Seymour Street Laurieton. Entry is free. Slice of Haven is brought to you by the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Joyer, Essential Energy, Holiday Coast Credit Union, Camden Haven Courier, GPM Focus and Southern Cross Media. For more information, contact enquiries@ sliceofhaven.com.au

Not g d for gr es.. but the ca le never l ked b er.. 2012 will not be a vintage to be remembered in the wine industry in New South Wales. Recording rainfall became irrelevant by the end of January. y then, the outlook was grim however, this year many vineyards were – rain through to the end of under water and vineyards that were spared March, but despite all the were unable to transport their fruit to the forecasts, we were optimistic the wineries for processing due to flooding. microclimate we are in would Many vineyards made the decision to provide us with a window of a week or harvest a couple of weeks early in midtwo of sun – or even just a dry spell! Sun is January, which saved much of the whites, needed to complete the ripening process and so it will be the reds that will be in low bring the sugar levels up in the fruit. After supply in a year or so. Winemakers are busy all – sun is the secret ingredient that working their magic to make the most makes Australian wines some of of whatever fruit was harvested the best in the world. before the deluge of February As we all know, and March, so all will not of s February was constantly be lost, but for many all on Other regi ve ha es al W h ut wet; despite this, we we can do is prepare the New So r fate, were still hopeful in vineyard for next year's suffered a simila the with a couple of pply early March and the vintage and remain vineyards that sue fruit was hanging in optimistic. us with fruit in th ng in surprisingly well ... In the bigger picture Hunter not bringi . ds re but the rain just kept of the wine industry, this r thei on coming, and the continued reduction in fruit went over the edge. wine production across the The berries were swollen and country is helping overcome the bursting and turning to mush. Even oversupply issue within the industry. the birds were pissed off! Lower production due to weather events, When this happens in the vineyard, the combined with government initiatives hardest part is you still have to pick the fruit to reduce the total vineyard area and and just drop it off the vine to be mulched in. production is resulting in a more sustainable Leaving rotting fruit is not good for the vine, industry. leaving it vulnerable to disease. On a more local level, we are thankful of Other regions of New South Wales have the 2010 and 2011 vintage wines that we suffered a similar fate, with a couple of the have in good supply – so there is still plenty vineyards that supply us with fruit in the of wine to be enjoyed! Hunter not bringing in their reds ... it’s a sad And on another positive note, the summer tale for many vignerons. The Riverina, New rain made for great feed for the cattle, with South Wales major grape growing region, our Angus beef cattle never looking better was inundated. This region typically produces and making for some of the best beef we 60 per cent of the state's grape crush; have ever produced.

ffocussocial.

social scene.

with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

The Flair Wedding Party.

Transgrid

Photo by Roger Marchant.

April is one of those lovely months where autumn sets in and we begin to feel the crispness in the air. We enjoy every little bit of sunshine that we can, while we can.

he Easter Bunny brings us nice times with family and a very busy holiday season, with many new visitors to town. I managed to settle back into the swing of things after my trip to Vietnam with many projects to attend to, including another culinary tour to Vietnam next year. While I was away, the community of Wingham, together with Manning Valley Alliance, had begun the fight against the possible blight on the landscape that has been proposed by Transgrid to build massive towers with 330 volt power lines reaching from Stroud to Landsdowne. This community is known for its resilience and has previously proven that collaboration brings results. A concert was held at Wingham Town Hall on Sunday 15 April to raise awareness of the proposal and to start a fighting fund. The event was made possible by local musicians who donated their talent, along with local businesses who donated raffle items and volunteers who are always there to help out with these important social issues. Of course, the 200 or so attendees ensured that it was an enjoyable and informative afternoon. This event followed a Transgrid awareness meeting on 26 March in Wingham, where 500 people attended. In 2011, the inaugural Australia Rotary Health Hat Day was held to provide local Rotary clubs with an opportunity to both raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing and to generate funds for Australia Rotary Health to

Transgrid Day

Wingham Chamber of Commerce.

direct to mental health related activity. The local promotion received very positive feedback from local, regional and national networks. For 2012, the focus is again on raising awareness of mental health. The ‘hat team’ at the Rotary Club of Taree on Manning has a number of events organised for this, The gorgeous as w the second year of autumn weather for p ro kd Rotary’s Hat Day a perfect bac de and ri b g intendin Bent on for Mental Health der grooms to wanp Life provided Research, with o, around the exhat furniture for the exhibition is checking out w from one of the of hats official available to them backdrops. launch held at local businesses. Travelling the Manning Valley roadshows were Regional Art Gallery held at the Manning on April 20. Valley Visitors InformaThere are many events tion Centre and Great Lakes planned so check out the program and Council on 29 March, with research treat yourself to one of the events – figures from Destination NSW provided sure to be a lot of fun and all for a very to local tourism operators to ensure worthy cause. we are ready for future tourism trends. The Flair Awards presented their The workshops: 'obtaining and applyannual bridal expo ‘The Wedding Party’ ing research to your business' were on 1 April at the Taree-Wingham Race conducted by Kim MacDonald and Club. The gorgeous autumn weather Belinda Novicky from The Legendary was a perfect backdrop for intending Pacific Coast, Bill Mabey from Trade bride and grooms to wander around and Investment and Amanda Coghlan the expo, checking out what is availfrom Destination NSW. The Legendary able to them from local businesses. Pacific Coast is one of the State’s largOn offer were consults with venues, est industry led collaborative tourism makeup artists, bridal registries, florists marketing initiatives, with over 300 and DJ and car hire companies – too industry members in 2012 showcasing many to mention; the atmosphere was the legendary products and experiences sophisticated and classy and of course, on Australia’s top tourism drive. the highlight was the fabulous fashion On 18 April, Wingham Chamber of parade, featuring gowns by Sydney Commerce held a successful dinner designers, Bev Mann and Lauren Lee meeting at the Wingham Golf Club, and local boutique, Bird Tree.

with great meals prepared by the new team in the kitchen. Megan Lewis from Mid Coast Mediation was a fabulous guest speaker, with the topic 'Mastering Difficult Conversations' proving popular amongst members. Who hasn’t found themselves in a situation where they’ve had to have a conversation they would rather not? Telling an employee they are underperforming, negotiating with a difficult customer, letting a loved one down or simply saying “no" ... Megan gave us some great tips, with lots of interaction from the floor. May 13 is Mother's Day, so make sure you treat your mum to a special day to show her how much you love her and appreciate all she does for you. You can take her out to one of the many restaurants in the region for brekky, lunch or dinner, or even cook up a special meal. Remember when shopping for gifts to support local businesses, who give back to your community. Love to hear from you if you have any social events, weddings, parties, anything! Send pics and info to donna. carrier@bigpond.com. Cheers, Donna. manning-great lakes focus 21

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focusinterview.

GLOUCESTER

F E S T I VA L

This May, the Shakespeare in Gloucester Festival – recently renamed ‘Shakespeare Gloucester’ – enjoys its 14th year of celebrating the world’s most lauded playwright, the Bard. I’m told the annual event is the longest running festival of Shakespeare in NSW and was the first of its kind all those years ago. I caught up with Maureen Hjorth, Chairperson for the organising committee of Shakespeare Gloucester, to o tell us about the festival.

aureen, tell us briefly about how the festival started and also what sparked an initial interest in Shakespeare for you? The Festival started 14 years ago and was initially presented with an emphasis on bringing the works of Shakespeare to the high schools around the area. It was first presented in the grounds at Stratford, with a marquee for the performances. The venue was then changed to Gloucester Showground, but both venues proved to be a very muddy and the Recreation Centre and grounds were then utilised for the fair, markets and meals. The Marquee was still used for the performance, but after feedback from our patrons, we moved the performance as well as the meal inside the Centre. My interest in the Bard started at school. I loved the language and flow of his prose and performed in his plays at school. When I first came to Gloucester, one of the first signs I saw was advertising the Shakespeare Festival. I rang the then Chairperson and the rest, as they say, is history. This year you’ve chosen to spread the medieval fun through the town centre of Gloucester by bringing Elizabethan stalls and street entertainers back to the market. A major change this year has been the venue. We decided to change for a number of reasons. The new venue, The Gloucester Soldiers Club, is in the centre of town, in keeping with the fair also being moved to that site; thus, keeping the hub of the fair and festival in the business district. The local businesses have supported us so well over the years, so we thought it would be nice to bring the festival to them. We are encouraging the shop keepers to get into the spirit of the fair with dress and decoration. The club is also more intimate, is better acoustically and is simpler to decorate and work in. We have also chosen a weekend that incorporates the monthly Farmers’ Markets, so making that a part of the festival. Visitors will also be able to sample and buy the local produce and of course, the stall holders will be dressing in appropriate style. There is also a

parade to start the proceedings at 9.30am and a concert to finish the day at 2pm. The farcical comedy – The Comedy of Errors – one of Shakespeare’s the “My interest in hool. I earliest plays which is brimming sc at d te ar st rd Ba with pun and slapstick, will be ge and loved the languaand e performed by Newcastle’s Tantrum flow of his pros s plays Theatre. What can people expect performed in hi to enjoy about this adaptation by at school.” of a huge Director Carl Young? Ploughman’s As always with Carl Young as the platter, including Director, the audience can expect a cobb bread, cheeses, production which is lively and maybe a little out roast beef, pickles and of the Shakespeare Square. Having said that, many more sumptuous delights. There is also a Carl has assured us that he is sticking to the raffle with 3 - 4 prizes and if anyone wants to Bard’s words and nothing has been added or dress in the period, there will be prizes for best changed. dressed. Doors open at 6.45pm; show starts at He has been involved for many years with 7.30pm. the Festival, not only directing, but acting in On Saturday evening, the patrons are served some of the productions and is very much in a 3-course feast, creating a medieval banquet, tune with what our audiences love and react to. plus full bar facilities. We have found that many Carl instills such energy and enthusiasm into his people do dress in the style of the festival and cast, which provides a lively, spirited show. For there is great fun in the parade and presentation him, it is a play about family and belonging, the of the outfits, with again prizes for best dressed. importance of knowing where you come from, Over the years, the wives have encouraged where you are going and who you belong to. their husbands to participate as well, and it all The play is book ended by two dramatic goes to the total enjoyment of the evening. scenes: firstly a man about to be executed; and There is also a trivia quiz and of course, the finally, a family emotionally reunited after being raffle with 5 - 6 prizes. All prizes are donated by separated for over 20 years. Not traditionally the the local businesses. Then once the crowd have stuff of great comedy, but between those two settled down, the performance starts at approx. scenes is a brilliantly structured farce of double 8pm. Doors open at 5.30pm. mistaken identity. In Carl’s words, “While it may Will there be a matinee performance? not be his wittiest or cleverest play, in my mind, There certainly is a matinee performance, it is his funniest”. starting at 1pm with doors open at 12.30pm. What will be taking place at the evening There will be no bar open or food served, but shows? there will be plenty around before people There are, in fact, three evening shows. come to the show. There is also another GACCI On Thursday evening we have a production players performance on the Saturday at 11am; from our local GACCI players. They are one doors open 10.30am and again, $5 at the door of the attractions of the festival, and each will get you a seat. year these oddball thespian pretenders take a What do you think about the discussion classic Shakespeare text, turn it on its head and of Skakespeare being removed from the produce an evening full of laughter and fun. school curriculum? Tickets for this are obtained at the door for $5, This is an ongoing discussion and for myself, I and full bar services are available. Doors open at think it should stay. Many people over time have 7pm and show time is 8pm. encouraged students to embrace Shakespeare On Friday evening there is the Tantrum by presenting the plays in all different ways. production, with full bar facilities and a The themes are timeless: love, jealousy, hate, scrumptious supper served at interval consisting

murder, comedy, farce, and I think that given the amount of productions on film, television and theatre, the Bard will be around in schools for a long time. Indeed, the 600 - 700 or so high school students who attend the festival are very enthusiastic about all the plays that have been presented and comments like: “I never knew Shakespeare was so funny, sad, exciting” will hopefully assure him a place in the curriculum. The workshops that are held by the company have proved to be a great success, giving the students a much better understanding of Shakespeare. Shakespeare enthusiasts will know that ghostly figures appear in many of his plays. Might we expect an appearance from the Bard himself at the festival? I cannot make any promises, but you never know. The trick is not to look for him in his traditional dress. As we have said, school students have been encouraged to read his works, by modernising the presentations, so I’m sure Shakespeare would be encouraged by that and may appear in a pair of jeans and leather jacket. Even if we can’t see him, I’m pretty sure that his spirit will be floating around, just to make sure we get it right. Thanks Maureen. Interview by Karen Farrell.

the plug! An annual festival celebrating the works of William Shakespeare will be held at the Gloucester Soldiers Club, Denison Street, Gloucester on May 11 and 12. Gloucester Information Centre (02) 6558 1408 www.shakespeareingloucester.com.au information@gloucester.nsw.gov.au or info@shakespeareingloucester.com.au

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The spirit of music What comes to mind when you think of percussion music ... drums, drums and more drums? Wrong! Percussion music comes about when a player hits, scrapes, rubs or shakes something to produce vibrations ... and therefore sounds.

he percussion family is believed to include the oldest musical instruments. Of course, the wide range of drums available today are all percussion instruments; however, there are many others, from the loud to the most sensitive.

accompanied by piano at St Columba Anglican School Port Macquarie. Critics have described his playing as virtuosity worthy of the highest praise (The West Australian) and dazzling dexterity ... balanced with supreme delicacy (Adelaide Advertiser).

This month Camden Haven Music will host two very different percussion groups in a concert and workshop series entitled ‘Passionate Percussion’. First performance will be by Australia’s king of percussion, Nick Parnell, voted Australia’s most exciting concert percussionist (ABC 24 Hrs Magazine). As a leader of the new generation of performers, Nick breaks traditional classical music boundaries by performing works by Bach and Chopin on percussion.

Born in the small South Australian country town of Orroroo, Nick began teaching himself the drums at the age of ten, followed by four years of formal tuition. He completed a Bachelor of Music, Honours and Masters degrees in Percussion Performance at the Elder Conservatorium of Music, University of Adelaide, where he was awarded his PHD. In 2004 he was named the most outstanding graduate of the Elder Conservatorium, consistently winning awards for his outstanding musicianship.

An ABC Classics recording artist and winner of the 2001 International Melbourne Percussion Competition, his explosive energy and precision on instruments, including marimba, vibraphone, drums, gongs and cymbals have fascinated and enchanted audiences throughout Australia, Asia and the UK. On Friday 25 May, Nick Parnell will perform a wide ranging program on vibraphone

The vibraphone is a musical percussion instrument with a double row of tuned metal bars each above a tubular resonator. It contains a pedal to control sustain and is most impressively (and physically) played with four mallets, emitting a mellow and smooth singing tone. Nick’s Crystal Mallets in Port Macquarie will include works by Gershwin, JS

Bach, Debussy and others. Steel yourself for his mallets of musical mastery! Completely different on Saturday 26 May is Baala Baajo, African Drumming and Dance ensemble from the Gold Coast. Fusing traditional East and West African music, song and dance, Baala Baajo creates a dynamic, captivating, passionate, vibrant and energising explosion of African drumming, dancing and singing. Led by Nii Armah from Ghana and Sam Okoth from Kenya, Baala Baajo creates an uplifting and soulful African musical journey – contemporary and traditional, timeless and utterly authentic. The instrumentation incorporates the authentic sounds of a range of traditional African drums and percussion, creating soulful melodies

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Port Macquarie Acoustics

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and explosive rhythms that inspire and uplift. With attention to cultural detail, energetic choreography and vibrant costumes, the rhythms are accompanied by visually stunning dance routines from East and West Africa. The Baala Baajo line up includes a combination of Queensland’s most talented African artists and performers of African arts. Baala Baajo will conduct drumming and dance workshops at North Haven Bowling & Recreation Club on Saturday 26 May and at the Slice of Haven Food & Wine Festival on Sunday 27 May. Information and tickets are available from www.chm.org.au – brochures available in libraries and visitor centres or phone 6559 6874 or email chm@tsn.cc

Peter was hilarious. He was kind and he had wit ...

Untold stories of Peter Allen The young Australian singer and pianist, ROBERT BERTRAM, clutches the maracas and kicks up a storm in the new oneman show, THE LIVES OF ME – UNTOLD STORIES OF PETER ALLEN. It’s an intimate, fun and passionate celebration charting the onstage and backstage adventures of the legendary songwriter and showman, Peter Allen. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Allen’s death in June 1992. THE LIVES OF ME presents familiar and unfamiliar tales about the composer of such hits as TENTERFIELD SADDLER, I HONESTLY LOVE YOU, and I GO TO RIO. It reveals the time he worked at the Continental Bathhouse in New York, his blossoming friendship with Bette Midler, his discovery of Harry Connick Jnr and his single-minded determination to star in his own Broadway musical. Songs include THE MORE I SEE YOU, FLY AWAY, I LOVE A PIANO and ONCE BEFORE I GO. Written by Bryce Hallett, THE LIVES OF ME is honest and energetic. There are no props or gimmicks, but simply the verve of good storytelling. The show draws inspiration from

some of the places Allen frequented and performed in, notably the mammoth Radio City Music Hall, where he kicked up a storm with the famous Rockettes and played to sellout crowds. Allen was a dreamer, whose life was full of surprises. It is in this vein that the versatile and charismatic Robert Bertram, who starred in KEATING – THE MUSICAL and PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, presents the indomitable spirit of one of Australia’s most extraordinary artists. As Bette Midler said: “Peter was hilarious. He was kind and he had wit ... He had this charm that just drew everyone to him in droves”.

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Judy Johnson

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Lisa Walker

The Gloucester Writers Festival is taking place from May 4 - 6. Festival Director, Lindy Dupree, tells us about the intimate festival for readers and writers. ould you tell us about your background and how you initially developed a passion and love of books? I have always been an avid reader since childhood. I cannot remember a time when I wasn’t reading. My parents encouraged me from a very young age to enter the magical world of books. Books became close friends and have seen me through some tough times, helped me to relax and encouraged me to think and ponder the world. As a mother, I am only too aware that young people are to have their imagination encouraged and nurtured. Tell us about how the Gloucester Writers Festival come to be? I opened the Gloucester Bookshop four years ago, and it became very apparent that despite a wealth of writers in the Hunter Valley and Mid North Coast, there was no Writers Festival for them to expose their work and for our readers to hear the story behind their stories. As an avid reader, I have always found it fascinating hearing writers share the stories behind their stories. I really wanted to act as a community catalyst to bring together, stimulate, encourage and support all writers and readers. I want us to be able to present the world of literature as a place of social and cultural dialogue – and fun! I also wanted to create a smaller country festival that would provide a perfect base for emerging writers to engage with award winning guest writers and to learn some of the secrets of their success. One of our objectives is to advance literacy by introducing youngsters to the wonder of books, and there will be workshops for high school students on writing a short story; every picture tells a story (about the graphic novel and creating caricatures), poetry and creative writing. As part of our schools program, we are running a short story (500 words) competition, featuring the word/theme ‘edge’. This is open to all high schools in the Mid North Coast and Hunter. The winning entry will be announced and a presentation made on Saturday 5 May, during the Gloucester Writers Festival. The winner will attend a Master Class with a writer of their choosing, based in Sydney or Newcastle. How does the festival work in terms of attending guest writer talks and panel sessions?

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ear The venue is It’s a bit different this year. Gloucester High School, and we have arranged for a courtesy bus to operate between the town centre and the school during the entire festival. This year we decided to hold the workshops on a separate day from the panel sessions, so that attendees could attend both. On Friday it is a whole day of workshops – spaces are limited, so if anyone wants to participate, we www.gloucesterwritersfestival.com where recommend booking prior to the day. bookings can be made securely on line. Day and Saturday and Sunday there are panel sessions weekend passes will also be available at the door which will address a number of genres. These from 8.30am each day. include historical fiction, young people’s fiction, Will people be able to engage in debate creating alternative worlds (including fantasy and/or meaningful discussion with the and science fiction), travel writing, what makes writers attending the festival? fiction so popular, chicklit (which does not mean Our audience will have the chance to ask dumblit), poetry (who reads it), what kind of questions at the end of each session, have books are selling today, and aspiring writers books signed by our authors in the Festival get the chance to make a real pitch to real Bookstore, as well as chatting with our writers publishers. at the Welcome Barbecue on Friday 4 May and The panel discussions are followed by questions our Festival Dinner (with guest speaker Jesse from the audience, inviting free interaction Blackadder) on Saturday 5 May. Bookings between thinkers and artists, writers are essential for these social events. and audience. What are some of the We have book launches on programs taking place While we both Saturday and Sunday in which people can do want our riters at lunch time, which is very participate in? W Gloucester ow, we exciting. Saturday a local People can participate in gr to al Festiv take writers group, ‘River Writers’, the Friday Workshops, do not want torm al will launch their first away the info which include a Master and relaxed publication Eavesdroppin, Class on Fiction Essentials atmosphere. which is a compilation of (with Dr Kathryn Heyman), short stories and poetry. On the Art of the Poem (a threeSunday our keynote speaker, hour workshop for poets with Judy Susanne Gervay, who is opening Johnson) and Getting Published (a threethe festival, will launch Alien Shores: Tales of hour practical seminar for fiction and non fiction refugees and asylum seekers from Australia writers with Irina Dunn). and the Indian subcontinent. This is a book As I’ve said, people can participate at the end of ahead of its time; it has stories about refugees all the panel sessions. and asylum seekers from Linda Jaivin, Arnold On Saturday after the last panel session, we Zable, Amitav Ghosh, Sophie Masson, Jamil again have the ‘Poet’s Sprint’, which is free for Ahmad, Ali Alizadeh, Sujata Sankranti, Abdul festival attendees and $5 for others. For anyone Karim Hekmat, Anu Kumar, Susanne Gervay, wanting feedback on the progress of their ‘work Deepa Agarwal, Michelle Cahill, Tabish Khair, in progress’, the Sunday afternoon pitching Joginder Paul, Andrew Y M Kwong, Bijoya session with a panel of publishers will be Sawian, JuliaMackay-Koelen, Sharon Rundle and invaluable. Details are on our website for anyone Meenakshi Bharat. who wants to register to ‘make a pitch’ An emerging writer, Anna Campbell, will talk Speaking of writers, which writers can on Sunday about the ups and downs to get her people expect to rub shoulders with at the book ‘off the computer and onto the shelves’. festival? The full program and details of the guest Once again a great line up of award winning writers is on our website: writers: our keynote speaker, Susanne Gervay

Gloucester Writers

AOM, the NSW Ambassador for the Year of Reading in 2012; Jesse Blackadder, winner of the Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship Award for 2011/12; chicklit writers Lisa Heidke and Lisa Walker; award winning poets Judy Johnson and Robert Adamson. Historical writers Justin Sheedy, Carol Baxter and Isolde Martyn; children’s authors Stephen Measday and Aleesah Darlison. Wildlife photographer Jann Latta; and some great fantasy writers, Kim Falconer, Michael Pryor, Claire Corbett and Meg Mundell. Publishing is represented by Michael Wilding of Australian Scholarly Publishing and e- publisher Jacob Coates of Jaffa Books. The Gloucester Writers Festival is billed as an ‘intimate festival’ in which people can expect ‘small town informality and hospitality’. Tell us about this ... Many Writers Festivals are held in major cities at very large impersonal venues. Comments we received from participants last year said they loved coming to a Writers Festival that is so personal and not so self promoting as larger festivals. While we do want our Gloucester Writers Festival to grow, we do not want to take away the informal and relaxed atmosphere. Gloucester is a warm and welcoming town; it is set in a beautiful natural environment and its scenic beauty create a wonderful frame for our guests and participants to meet, discuss, debate and relax and enjoy this literary festival. Why is this a festival for everyone (and not just for poets and creative writing types)? Writers and books – they are intertwined. Readers get the chance to meet writers they would not have otherwise had the chance to, hear why they wrote their stories, as well as be introduced to new writers and ideas. We know that both readers and writers will find something of interest and be stimulated and entertained with the talented line of speakers and guest writers at this year’s festival. Thanks Lindy. Interview by Karen Farrell.

“

An outstanding and exciting new original show that tells the story of when Rock ‘n’ Roll music began

”

The Class of ’59 Australia, it’s back ... by overwhelmingly popular demand! Happy Days Records, by special arrangement with its President, ‘Big Al Delvecchio’, brings this unique concept to the stage, with new stars and memories from the era that reigns supreme in Rock ‘n’ Roll history. Big Al – world famous drive-in owner of Al’s Diner – has cooked up a Rock ‘n’ Roll feast large enough to whet any appetite, assembling the greatest band ever to take you back to a decade that created music legends and influenced a formidable culture, performing a catalogue where their songs are timeless, their hits are endless, and their flair is never forgotten. Rock like never before, and take the journey back to the Class of ‘59! Rock ‘n’ Roll’s immortal journalist, Ritchie Yorke, described 2011’s Class of ‘59 tour as “an outstanding and exciting new original show that tells the story of when Rock ‘n’ Roll music was a happy and exuberant experience. With a multi-talented cast, the show delivers a stack of red hot tracks in an appropriate context. Rock ‘n’ Roll comes alive again in this terrific show, worthy of an international audience’’.

Dance with us back to an era when Rock ‘n’ Roll influenced and created a social movement for the teenagers of its day … an era where black, horn-rimmed glasses became a trend … an era where petrol was so cheap that it fuelled not only the hot rods on the roads, but fired up a musical movement that would only be lived for a short while but would last in the hearts and souls of billions for eternity. It is this era that will be recreated on stage … Fans of the show will be able to take their concert experience home with them, with the purchase of the official Class of ‘59 tour CD, featuring a compilation of the hits from the golden era performed on the tour and that will be available only on this tour.

The Pillowcase Challenge Turn your love of quilting and sewing into a work of Art and help make a difference to the people who need it! The idea is simple: make a pillowcase that reflects your style, add a bit of colour and embellishment then drop it into your local Spotlight Store on or before 19 May 2012. Spotlight will do the rest and proudly display your pillowcase in store, before donating it to a local community charity. Sew Saturday 19 May 2012 For your chance to win a Toyota Sewing Machine and to help a local charity enter our Pillowcase challenge all you have to do is pick up a project sheet,

Make and decorate pillowcase. Take it in to your local Spotlight Come and join all the fun of Sew Saturday at your local Spotlight store right here in Taree. With instore Specials and Demonstrations starting on Thursday 19 May and all the fun and excitement on Saturday 19 there will be • Lucky Door Prizes • Kids Activities • Hands on demonstrations • Great Discounts • Giveaways • The winner of Toyota Sewing Machine announced.

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Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

p h o t o co u r t e s y o f Ve r i t y Wo o d s P h o t o g ra p hy 28 manning-great lakes focus.

Sunday May 13th

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Exclusively for Mum Anoush Beauty provides a wide range of beauty treatments here in the Great Lakes. From waxing to nails, facials, spray tanning and make up, and cosmetic tattooing. Anoush Beauty uses the best quality products available on the market and is a proud stockist of Jane Iredale makeup and now Dermaviduals. Dermaviduals is a unique skin care system personally prescribed for your individual skin type by our qualified skin consultant. Its unique delivery system works just like your skin’s own DNA, leaving your skin more youthful and vibrant. Dermaviduals features no emulsifiers • no silicones • no mineral oils • no amines • no colours • no fragrances • no preservatives and no hype! … just amazing results. Why not give yourself the chance to experience the dermaviduals difference. Skin care that cares for your skin, inside and out! Anoush Beauty is offering two Mother’s Day Specials that feature Dermavidual facials (see ad below). If you can’t decide what to get Mum this Mother’s Day, then we also offer Gift Vouchers. But be quick, as the offer ends May 31, 2012.

Beautiful Sleepwear Come into Margaret's Underfashions for all the best sleepwear. Find the perfect gift for Mum this Mother's Day. We have a great range of beautiful nighties and pyjamas in brushed black satin, cotton interlock and cotton. We also specialise in dressing gowns – chenille and button up gowns, and bed jackets to keep you warm and snug this winter. • camis, singlets, thermal underwear • hosiery, plain and pattern tights • bras and briefs all sizes Bra fittings available; also prothesis fitting service from advanced breast care Newcastle. Most women are wearing the wrong size bra – let Margaret and her staff fit you properly to find the right bra for your body. Margaret's also has a fantastic range of scarves, wraps and hankies. Margaret takes pride in the professional, friendly service she offers her customers. Gift Vouchers available. Opening hours are Mon to Fri 9 - 5 and Sat 9 - 12.

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Spoil your Mum! Lorell Lorellin L lliin Day Spa has amazing ama offers for you to pamper your mother this Mother's Day! Treat your mum or a friend to the new double treatment room on May 12 and receive 30% off pedicures, facials and massages when you book together! We have gift packs and gift vouchers available too. Warm up your winter with VPL – You wouldn’t think so, but winter is the best time to get your VPL hair removal and skin treatments started. Due to our skin generally being well covered up for many months during the cold winter period, the skin becomes lighter and thus more suitable for VPL treatments. Book NOW for a Brazillian and get your underarms FREE. Or 30% off VPL Skin rejuvenation, a full face treatment for the months of May and June only.

Treasure trove of gift ideas Give Mum the love she deserves Show your mum the love she deserves every day, but especially this Mother’s Day, with a Family Portrait shoot with East Coast Photography. Craig from East Coast Photography has been photographing the discerning families of the Great Lakes for over 16 years. Craig specialises more in natural outdoor portrait photography that not only shows off your family to its best, but also incorporates our natural landscape beauty.

www.lorellindayspa.com.au or call 6559 3059.

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May iiss tthat special month in the year where we can May M collectively show our appreciation for that special woman in our lives – Mum. At Vast Interior Forster, you will find a treasure trove of gift ideas. Hand- picked homewares and furniture from exotic destinations chosen because of their beauty, heritage, design and individual style. Your mum is one of a kind, so give her a gift that is unique to her. Our extensive range of scented candles and incense are gorgeous. Choose a gift of jewellery, decorator cushions, artificial flowers perfectly arranged in a stunning vase or a beautiful print from our new range that will arrive before the big day. Not sure what to select? The staff at Vast love assisting our customers. Let us help you find that something special. Gift vouchers are also available. Find that original gift for Mum at Vast before anyone else does!

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I like shopping for Mum, but love surprising her on Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Sunday, 13 May

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Mother’s Day

Sunday May 13th

Day. The Tradition of Mother’s Day... How did it all start? other’s Day world says that Mother’s Day traditionally started in the UK as the fourth Sunday in Lent and was known as Mothering Sunday, as this was the day when all children who were away from their homes would return home from working (many children in that time were sent away to be house servants) and were reunited with their mothers. As time passed, it gradually became a day when the whole family would gather and the mother would be treated as a special guest. The children would give the mothers cakes or wildflower bouquets. In the USA, it was quite a different story, as early English settlers disapproved of more secular holidays, and the idea never took hold. Instead, a lady called Julia Ward Howe came up with the idea for an International

Mother’s Day in 1872; however, her objectives were somewhat mixed with peace movements, which stemmed from earlier unsuccessful attempts to have a Mothering Sunday celebrated. Soon after, a lady called Anna Jarvis petitioned to have a day to recognise Mothers and had an annual gathering ‘Mother’s Friendship Day’, with the objective of healing the pain of those affected by the civil war, which her mother had experienced. Anna saw it as a way to pay tribute to her. This all began in 1908, and her efforts soon brought about first official Mother’s Day on May 10, 1908 at a Methodist Church. The day was approved by the Superintendent of Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. This was the place where her mother had taught Sunday school classes for over 20 years. At the first service, over 400 people

showed up, and mothers were recognised and given a flower. Some years later in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared that Mother’s Day should be celebrated as a national holiday on the second Sunday in May, and this is the tradition that Australia follows. In 1920 the first Mother’s Day was celebrated at the Presbyterian Church, Burwood, NSW. The youth leader of the Australian church wrote a letter to Anna Jarvis to get details about how to celebrate

Mother’s Day, and much like in the U.S. the youth of the church handed out white flowers to all the mothers. Soon after, as the day developed, children were encouraged to do helpful things for their mothers. So although it got off to a rocky start in the early 1900s, Mother’s Day soon became recognised and today is one of the most celebrated days on our calendars. Have a lovely Mother’s Day, all the mothers out there.

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Mother’s Day

Sunday May 13th

Dumas In 2000, Mary Dumas, Taree TAFE Aboriginal Teacher Coach, very sadly and unexpectedly became a widow, meaning she had the sole responsibility of raising her four children, whose ages at the time ranged between nine to nineteen. nstead of completely despairing with the support of family and friends and giving up on life, Mary made (and a lot of determination) I was able to the decision to educate herself to succeed. I did find though, that as much support her children and has since as I love my family, occasionally I also become a role model to not only needed time for myself. Even if it meant her own children, but to many children just putting my feet up, enjoying a cuppa in the local community as well. Mary and just finding a moment to relax. currently sits on the teaching staff of What advice would you give to other a new TAFE course, the Diploma of single mothers currently living the Aboriginal studies, which she helped for daily juggling act of raising children formulate. with work and a career? Twelve years ago you went through I think the best advice I can give is an extraordinarily difficult time when to hang in there. Yes, at times it will all your husband suddenly died. You seem too much, but the rewards (both made a choice that you wanted to personally and professionally) will be so inspire others to succeed. Apart from great. the obvious necessity of providing for And don’t ever let anyone tell you that your children, what prompted your you can’t do it. You are the only one that decision to become a role can hold you back, nobody model? else. Above all, never lose I think that there sight of your goals and ce can never be enough never be afraid to ask ... the best advi ng role models for for help. I can give is to ha es in there. Yes, at tim our young people. Together with o it will all seem towards Today’s young Margaret much, but the re and ly people face so Gardner, you al on rs (both pe ill be w ) ly al on si many challenges, helped formulate es of pr so great. and they really need The Diploma of to have people to look Aboriginal Studies, up to, to help support, which is based out motivate and encourage of Taree and also has them. relevance on the North Coast, It’s amazing how far a little bit of where according to a release issued encouragement can take you. by NSW TAFE's North Cost Institute, You initially studied at TAFE in one in 10 of NSW's Indigenous 1997 and subsequently upgraded people live. Tell us about the course your qualifications, enrolling in a and if you have any plans to expand Bachelor of Secondary Education, it in the future? majoring in English and Aboriginal Heather McGregor (TAFE’s Director of Studies. During this time you were Community Development and Aboriginal also employed at Taree's Ghinni Engagement) was instrumental in Ghinni Youth and Culture Aboriginal formulating the course, along with Corporation and also at St Joseph's Margaret, as well as negotiating with Primary School. As a single mother, the Wollotuka Institute at Newcastle it can't have been easy for you. How University. did you and how do you continue to Margaret then approached me and manage a work/life balance? asked if I would be interested in helping At times it wasn’t easy, and I even had to deliver the course, which is how my moments when I doubted myself and involvement came about. wondered if I could keep on going, but The Diploma of Aboriginal Studies

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provides a high-level TAFE qualification and pathway for Aboriginal workers and community members seeking entry into the University of Newcastle’s Bachelor of Aboriginal Professional Practice. The course also provides a year’s credit towards the degree. This is basically a pilot program for the Taree area, so depending upon the success of the program, it is hoped that we can continue to offer this course to students in the future. What is involved in your role as Aboriginal Teacher Coach at Taree TAFE? As Aboriginal Teacher Coach, I provide tutorial support to Indigenous students across all faculties at both Taree and Great Lakes Campus. This support includes one-on-one, group tutorial and team teaching, as well as supporting students throughout their work placement. I also liaise closely with Head Teachers to determine the extent of support for the students. What do you aim to teach your students? My main aim is to help the students to course complete, but also to help them realise their potential. I want them to know that they have true value and have so much to offer – not only to themselves and their families, but to their community as well. After your life experiences, what have you learnt about the value of family? To me, family is priceless. My outlook on life is that even if you don’t have anything else in life, you will always have family. I once heard someone say what children mostly need is stability, patience and love ... what do you think children are most in need of? Definitely all of the above, but also to be made to feel important and that they are really, really special. Thank you Mary. Interview by Karen Farrell.

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M AY 2 0 1 2

WITH TERRI

We want happy children! A R I E S.

L E O.

SAG I T TA R I U S.

MAR 21 - APR 20

JUL 24 - AUG 23

NOV 23 - DEC 21

Be patient a little longer; you’re about to step into some happier times, but your attitude is critical. If you can step into the unknown fearless, there will be nothing to worry about. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

This month your awareness is being called toward your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present, is because you are currently taking life far too seriously. Lighten up and bring back your laughter, and watch your fears disappear. Pyrite will bring back courage.

Now is a really good time to debate your own rules and regulations for life. Your judgement prohibits you from enjoying life to its fullest, so be kinder to yourself. Plan a holiday for yourself and get out of your current circumstance, to try a little new goal setting. Citrine will shatter negative thoughts and attract an abundance of positive ones.

TAU RU S.

V I RG O.

C A P R I C O R N.

APR 21 - MAY 21

AUG 24 - SEPT 23

DEC 22 - JAN 20

A sense of justice will be experienced, to enable you the freedom to move ahead. Avoid giving your personal power away at this time, as this is an action that causes self-disapproval. Rose Quartz will aid in raising self-worth.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22

Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones don’t. Kyanite helps build inner bridges so we can literally get over things.

Adventure a little longer. If you’re feeling stuck, write some goals down and plan a course of action. Movement is important for dispersing some of your restless energy right now, so keep busy and keep having fun. Carnelian will empower and enthuse.

Important words need to be spoken to bring a happy outcome to a potential negative situation. Don’t be afraid to speak from the heart, as your intention will be felt. Enjoy some laughter, as celebration is on its way for a family member. Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

With regards to relationships, instead of looking at what you’re not getting, concentrate on all the special qualities of this relationship. You will feel completely different. Chrysocolla will keep your heart singing.

CANCER.

S C O R P I O.

P I S C E S.

OCT 24 - NOV 22

FEB 20 - MAR 20

Life may seem a little suspended at the moment, because you need to let go of something from the immediate past that has been exhausting you and causing sadness. Don’t be afraid to try something different. Your awareness is being called to recognise your creativity, because it’s through this talent you will be drawing success near. Turquoise is great for self-validation.

We know that happiness is related to how a child accepts rules and develops the confidence needed to make friends and learn. By building relationships with families as well as children, we can help children deal with the changes that often happen during this time. Our program allows children to be supported and provides time for staff to be there when needed. We know how important conversation and care is and although we know we will never replace the love from family, we want to add a bit as well. We aim to provide a safe, supportive environment for every child – come and see our program. Inspections are welcome; please ring Lyn on 6557 2463. (Limited places available – future bookings can be made.) Accredited and working within the Australian National Framework Guidelines, Blossoms is licensed under the Early Childhood Education and Care Regulations.

The challenges you are facing at home, stem from not being appreciated or honoured. It is time you try something new to break the dynamics and re-educate those surrounding you to be a little less selfish and more considerate of your needs. A journey is a strong possibility, resulting in further career success. Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence and appreciation.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

Don’t get caught up in holding onto garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.

We want our children to be ready not only for school, but also for their life. At Blossoms we know how important it is to build happy, resilient children who will face their world ready to meet the challenges that will be put before them.

You may be feeling a little ‘up-rooted’ lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook. Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.

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J E N AYA & D AV I D WICKS.

HUGH AND J E N I HARRIS

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Relationship Difficulties? Tell us a little about Co-dependents Anonymous â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whom do they assist? Coda assists anyone who is trying to improve their relationships with other people. These can be friends, partners, work colleagues, employers, family members. It can also assist anyone who is in a relationship with someone suffering from an addiction, or from a family where addictions existed, but is not exclusive to this. It is helpful for people who feel trapped in repeating the same life experiences and want to change but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to.

Coda assists anyone who is trying to improve their relationships with other people.

If someone was unsure about whether it was right for them, what advice would you give them? The advice from Coda is to come to 6 consecutive meetings to decide whether Coda is right for you. There are two local meetings a week in Tuncurry. There is no obligation to keep attending; anyone can come as often or as little as they like. The cost is a gold coin donation, and newcomers are asked not to

contribute.

What are the benefits to those who attend? The benefits are greater for people who come regularly and can vary. For many, it is the start of a new better life, as old baffling self-defeating behaviours gradually disappear and are replaced by new healthy behaviours. Relationships with other people become healthier, new opportunities start to arise, along with a sense of self empowerment.

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Make a Cuppa

Make a

According to the Cancer Council of NSW, every 12 minutes someone in Australia will die from cancer … We know the disease does not discriminate and that it stretches across all cultures and communities.

he Cancer Council of NSW is amount is due to the hard work by our group and again hosting its iconic Biggest also the donations for prizes, which come from Morning Tea on Thursday 24 May local businesses. and is encouraging Australians of What are some of the activities people all ages from all communities and usually engage in at one of the morning tea backgrounds to ‘put the kettle on to put cancer events? out’… It has developed into a real social get together Coomba resident, Jenny Arnold, has been for the people in this small community. There is a hosting Biggest Morning Teas since 2000. On lot of talking and laughing, as old friends catch May 24, Jenny and the ‘Coomba Cowgirls’ – a up and new residents are introduced. dynamic group of women who pour a mean We always provide some entertainment, and cuppa tea – will host their 13th morning tea in a our big raffle is well supported. And, of course, bid to help defeat cancer … everyone loves our home cooked goodies. Who are the Coomba Cowgirls? How does the Cancer Council We are a small social group, assist you in running the which was formed in 1995 to morning tea? s The guests alway learn line dancing. I liaise with the Cancer in give us a gold coch cuppa. Over the years, our Council on behalf of our group ea r fo n donatio day, e th of d activities have widened and I’m contacted each year en e th At left is any food that isld coin and the annual Biggest with offers of help, ranging plated and a go u a plate Morning Tea has become an from posters to cups, which donation gets yoies. important date for all of us. od we use as part of our raffle. go of yummy Several of our members have We have been running the had cancer, and we all know morning teas for so long, we don’t friends or family who have had it. need a lot of help, but I know there is Jenny, over the 13 years that you’ve always someone I can call if needed. been hosting Biggest Morning Teas, you’ve What does the ‘host kit’ that the Cancer managed to raise a colossal $34,000 to assist Council provides contain? with cancer prevention and research. That’s a It contains posters, receipts, signage, boxes lot of cups of tea … how did you initially get for coins, plus all the administration information involved in this fundraising activity? required. I was invited to a morning tea hosted by my Do you use the Biggest Morning Tea as an neighbour in 1999 and thought the ‘Cowgirls’ excuse to turn off your phone and computer could do a good job at hosting their own one the and simply enjoy spending quality time with next year. loved ones? We hold our event in the Coomba Community It is quality time, but the hours between 10am Hall, and it is an open invitation. The first year we and midday are too hectic to relax much. made $600 and thought it was wonderful, but Each member of our group works hard, and we now we raise nearly $5,000 each year. This large all know exactly what we have to do.

When our guests leave, we clean up and then have a sit down, a cuppa and a good ‘debrief’. How do you actually raise funds at the Biggest Morning Tea? We usually have about 120 guests at our morning tea. They all know to bring lots of money. We have a mega raffle with between 40 – 50 prizes. That is popular, because each ticket costs $5, but the same ticket is returned to the barrel and can be drawn again. We also have two other raffles, each with a specific prize – one for $1 and the other costs $2. We usually have an encore for whatever entertainment is on the day, but the guests are asked to throw coins before the encore, and they are happy to do so. The guests always give us a gold coin donation for each cuppa. At the end of the day, any food that is left is plated and a gold coin donation gets you a plate of yummy goodies. That is very popular. Thanks Jenny. Interview by Karen Farrell.

Get involved! Host a morning tea. Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is one of Australia’s best-loved fundraising events and plays a vital role in raising money towards Cancer Council’s work in research, prevention and support. Every donation makes a big difference! Your support will raise vital funds for cancer research, prevention and support services. For more information or to register your event or donate visit: www.biggestmorningtea.com.au call 1300 65 65 85

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Outstanding Business Sustainability award BCS Kularoo staff and residents are expressing a growing interest in reducing their environmental footprint by providing and utilising more environmentally sustainable methods. ou would think getting old means it doesn’t matter, but to the staff and residents of BCS Kularoo, the future and the environmental issues are still as important as they have ever been – even in the latter years of life.

In 2011, BCS Kularoo was successful in its application from the Energy and Water Efficiency projects made available from the Office of Environment & Heritage. A funding grant of $40,000 was allocated to BCS Kularoo to install rainwater tanks to supply the laundry and irrigation, as well as upgrading the lighting from halogen to LED lighting. The estimated project savings are 3.9 million litres of water, 338 megawatt hours of electricity and 361 tonnes of green house gases in the first ten years. Once receiving the grant, maintenance staff and management have worked tirelessly organising and preparing for the installation

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of tanks and lighting. Mr Peter Wells, Support Supervisor and Project Manager for the installation said “that by securing the application for energy and water efficiency, we are able to achieve good outcomes for The estimated 3.9 the residents and staff at ect savings are , oj pr BCS Kularoo, allowing us to ater million litres of wurs ho t at work towards a common 338 megaw 361 goal to reduce the facility’s of electricity andhouse n ee gr tonnes of environmental footprint ten gases in the first whilst still maintaining a years. high quality service to the residents of Kularoo.” The installation of the seven tanks was completed by late 2011. The tanks altogether hold a capacity of 141,000 litres. Rain water is harvested from the roof area and fed into a main feeder tank, providing water to the main laundry and irrigation systems in the gardens and lawn. The tank installation

works well alongside the new EcoLab laundry sustainable program, which was installed in late January 2011 and has resulted in a 1,500 - 2,500 litre saving of water per week, as well as a reduction in electricity. “It may be hard work initially,” said Peter, “but the extra work now is well worth the investment in time, money and thought to produce a more efficient cost saving and

environmental solution for the future.” As a result of the efforts, BCS Kularoo was delighted to receive an award from the Office of Environment and Heritage for its contribution to outstanding business sustainability achievements in the Manning Valley and Great Lakes areas. Peter Wells was proud to accept this award, saying “This sends out a positive message to the community that BCS Kularoo is committed to excellence in residential care and the environment.”

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VOLUNTEERS

THE LIFEBLOOD OF OUR COMMUNITY

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community. community The ability of people to willingly donate their time and energy to meaningful causes and organisations makes for much enrichment of our community.

eople volunteer for many reasons – from an innate desire to contribute or for help learning new skills, making friends and improving community life and

self-worth. The theme for National Volunteer Week in 2012 is 'Volunteers – Every One Counts'. We hear from Great Lakes Neighbour Aid Team Leader, Karen Burton, on this year's plans for celebrating volunteers. This year during National Volunteer Week (from 14 to 20 May) organisations are recognising volunteers in many different ways. Plans are in place to provide a joint celebration with Great Lakes Neighbour Aid, Great Lakes Meals on Wheels, Great Lakes Centre-based Respite Service and Great Lakes Leisure and Respite Options to recognise and reward their valuable contribution to these services. What have you got planned for Volunteers Week? This year, the above services have joined together to host a big BBQ luncheon at the Community Centre for all our volunteers. Meals on Wheels will be cooking up a storm, and we always have a special something to show how much we value and appreciate our volunteers. We know that some of our volunteers just don’t assist the one service and in fact, some volunteers are very busy working with all of our services – that equates to a huge amount of time and dedication from these wonderful people, for which we are so grateful. As they say – ask a busy person! Volunteers are an extremely important resource to the community. What are some of their varying responsibilities? Our target group is frail older people, younger people with a disability and the carers of both. Depending on the service they are associated with, our volunteers can assist with activities such as food preparation and meal deliveries, taking people shopping, to the doctors and other appointments, assisting with people with memory loss with Centre-Based Respite service, and social support and respite for people with a disability with Leisure and Respite Options. Tell us about the individual work of the four services mentioned previously which are being celebrated during National Volunteer Week ...

The aim of all our services is to keep people Cultural Award for their stage performance of in their own homes for as long as possible by Peregrine in 2009 and are well known for their providing a range of different services. We are annual Art Exhibitions. government funded, and, with the aid of our Meals on Wheels doesn’t just provide meals; volunteers, we can keep the costs to our clients they also run other programs such as their meal to a minimum. voucher program, outings and walk in frozen Great Lakes Neighbour Aid, Great Lakes food service. They cover a wide area, including Centre-Based Respite Service and Great Lakes Forster/Tuncurry, Nabiac, Firefly, Krambach, Leisure and Respite Options are under the Tarbuck Bay, Coomba Park and Hallidays Point. auspice of Great Lakes Council, who manage Volunteers are represented on the Management our funds and support us to do our work. Committee. Neighbour Aid’s core role is to provide social What benefits can volunteers bring to an support services, which includes shopping organisation? assistance, transport to medical and other Good question. Volunteers bring many appointments, small and bus group benefits and first and foremost, our outings, a men’s group and services would not be able to information and socialisation function without them – they for Carers through Support are the backbone of our Groups. organisations, and we So, volunteering e We also have a Wheelie would certainly not be os is not just for th eir th on Bin service for those who able to achieve all that we e with tim tually have difficulty in putting have in the past and hope hands – we are ackforce assisting the workers in a out and taking in their to achieve in the future in sourcing wor ea. bins. Basically, we assist without them. skill shortage ar people to access their local Volunteers bring with community and try to ensure them a wealth of knowledge that the service is tailored to and experience and are very each individual’s need. active within our services, helping The Centre-Based Respite Service is a us to improve what we do. They attend Dementia Specific Day Centre which runs several meetings and have input into decision making, day programs for people with memory loss which is rewarding for them and influences how who live with a loved one or live by themselves, we work with the people we assist. They are our which includes the Daisy Club, a Ladies Group eyes and ears, as they are in constant contact and a Men’s Group. Volunteers assist the staff with the people they help, so they are providing with the organising of activities such as indoor a monitoring service to us as well. bowls, craft and outings. The participants' days The face of volunteering has changed over are filled with fun and laughter and while they time and volunteers are no longer restricted are with the service, their carers get a wellto middle-aged retirees with time to spare. earned break. People from all walks of life volunteer Leisure and Respite Options have a range of these days. Who volunteers? programs tailored to meet the individual needs Of course, we still have a large number of of people with a disability and their carers. This people in this age group, and now trends are can be a one-on-one outing, a small group foray emerging after initiatives to capture a wider into the local community, a holiday away or range of volunteers. even hosting a person in the family home. Centrelink have their Work for the Dole Áll the people we support choose leisure program, which brings us younger members of activities which are meaningful, including the community, and Meals on Wheels is involved connecting with surf clubs, sporting clubs and with the Student Volunteering Program in creative and artistic pursuits, while at the same partnership with Great Lakes College, targeting time, their Carers have the opportunity to do our younger school-aged community members something for themselves. to experience the sense of achievement and the The participants have even won a State many rewards in helping others. Younger people

with a disability rely on their school peers for friendship and socialisation. Why do people volunteer? There are lots of reasons volunteers give freely of their time and the majority, when asked, will tell you that they volunteer because they want to give something back to their community, that they love helping people and they get so much satisfaction from knowing that they are making a difference in someone’s life. They make great friendships with the people they work with and just seeing the smile and gratitude on their faces is all that a volunteer needs to feel they are doing something worthwhile. Another reason why people volunteer is to see if they would like to pursue a career in aged care and/or disability sector. Volunteering in this industry is a great stepping stone to gain employment in their chosen fields. So, volunteering is not just for those with time on their hands – we are actually assisting the workforce in sourcing workers in a skill shortage area. The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is 'Volunteers – Every One Counts', which is sending a message to existing volunteers that they are valued and we appreciate their time, commitment and caring nature. The volunteers don’t want rewards or accolades, as they feel they receive this through the work they do, and us, as service providers, want to be able let them know how much they are valued – that is why Volunteer’s Week is celebrated nationally in May each year and we organise a special event in their honour. Our volunteers are wonderful, and we need more of you! An increasing number of selffunded retirees are moving to this area, and they tend to still be very active with their own pursuits, which is understandable. But, maybe there can still be room for giving just an hour or two per week or fortnight – the rewards will be countless! Volunteers are reimbursed for their out of pocket expenses and receive ongoing training and support. So if you like having fun, being with people and having an adventure, contact us for your active involvement in your community. Contact Karen on 6554 8698. Thank you Karen. Interview by Karen Farrell. manning-great lakes focus 45

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Darren Darren will be raising awareness about The National Broadband Network at the T.H.E. Exchange event in Coffs Harbour on 21 June. or those who don’t know, what is NBN Co? The NBN is the National broadband Network, which is essentially a high-speed internet and communications network that is being rolled out to every premise in Australia. The network is designed to give improved broadband services to Australians, irrespective of whether they live in metro, regional, rural or remote locations. The network has three core delivery technologies to reach each property in the form of fibre, fixed wireless and satellite connections. The NBN is not just about faster internet – it’s about an upgrade to the infrastructure that will underpin the delivery of vital applications that Australians will need over the coming decades. This is a great step forward in preparing our country for the future and helping to address some of its biggest challenges in healthcare, education and business What is your role with the organisation – and what does it involve? I am the Community Relations Advisor for NBN Co, with a focus on Government and Community Relations in the areas that we are building in across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland and the Northern Territory. Primarily, my role is to help raise awareness and understanding amongst local stakeholders such as Councils, Regional Development Authority, Chambers of Commerce, universities and TAFEs, Members of Parliament, as well as the local community, as to what the NBN is, what it will mean for locals and prepare the way for its construction in the area. I also spend time with stakeholders looking forward to the Digital Economy and making sure that they are aware of the benefits, as well as prepare for when we switch the network on the NBN to optimise its use in terms of attractive new industries, creating employment and diversifying the local economy to take advantage of the new emerging digital age. Please give us the nuts and bolts details of the National Broadband Network? The NBN will deliver better broadband to every Australian, no matter where they live via a combination of fibre (93% of the premises across Australia) or, where building fibre is cost prohibitive, fixed wireless (4% of the premises) and satellite (3% of the premises). The entire 46 manning-great lakes focus.

construction project is expected to take around a decade to complete. In terms of improved speeds and capacities, that largely depends on what end users are getting at present. Across all three platforms we will be offering a range of services, that will be represented to end users over time by offers from retail service providers. For Fixed Wireless for example, the introductory services will be 8 times faster than ADSL1. Each delivery technology st has a road map to offer The NBN is not ju– it’s et rn te in er about fast even faster speeds and eight early locations e to the about an upgrad at will capacities over time. where the fibre network infrastructure th livery de e How will the National is already in service. underpin th ns Broadband Network We can ramp of vital applicatiowill that Australiansming benefit regional up activity, because need over the co Australians? construction contracts s. de deca The rollout of the NBN are in place and the follows a series of design major commercial and principles that aim to deliver a regulatory hurdles have been high-speed broadband network in an cleared, giving us the momentum efficient and cost-effective manner. we need. These principles include: first extending The full list of localities where the network is the network in areas where work has already up and running, where work is underway and begun; balancing construction across states where work is scheduled to begin before midand territories and between metropolitan and 2015 can be viewed online at www.nbnco.com. regional locations; and making use of available au/rollout/about-the-rollout/communities-in-theexchange and transit infrastructure as it rollout.html. becomes available. Communities can also check the progress Regional Australia will have access to the of the rollout by typing in their location same services that those in metro Australia or postcode into the interactive NBN have enjoyed. Investment in new industries and Rollout Map: www.nbnco.com.au/rollout companies, innovation and incubation can now Looking beyond this three-year plan, what be done anywhere across Australia. We are are the next geographical areas likely to be already seeing people move their business to included in the NBN? areas that already have NBN activated which are NBNCo will be updating the three-year plan not in metro locations. every 12 months. This essentially means that NBN Co has just announced a three-year roll new areas, towns and cities will be constantly out plan. How will this plan unfold – and added and communities will have a degree of what areas will it cover? certainty as to when we are coming. The National Broadband Network has It is important to note that the national Fixed published a three-year plan that will Wireless network will be completed by the end see an essential upgrade to Australia’s of 2015 and that we will be launching two communications rolled out to more than a satellites to improve the interim satellite network third of the Australian population. in 2015 as well. By mid-2015, the network will be up The NBNCo website www.nbnco.com. and running and construction will be au is the best place to find out information, underway in areas containing around or people can call our national contact 1,500 communities – or areas comprising centre on 1800 881 816 with an enquiry. more than 3.5 million homes and What is the estimated time frame for most businesses in every state and territory. of Australia to be connected? The figures include the three quarters of a The fibre network roll out will take 9.5 years million premises where construction work is to complete before the 93% of premises are underway or set to begin this year, including the connected. The Fixed Wireless covering 4% will

be completed by 2015 and the interim satellite which is operating now will be upgraded with the addition of our two new satellites in 2015 For those who live in an area where the NBN is being rolled out, how do they go about getting connected? The many Retail Service Providers (the list is currently 39 and growing) will market prices, bundles and a range of offers to end users. The end user will select a service, sign-up with a RSP then the RSP will place an order on NBNCo to connect the property. The end user will be well and truly informed as to when we are coming to their area and see a range of marketing material from the retail service providers, with competitive offers to select from. You’re a guest speaker at the T.H.E. Exchange (Technology Health Education) event in Coffs Harbour on June 21. What topics will your speech cover? NBN Co will have several speakers at T.H.E. Exchange to address the status of the national roll-out, the latest in applications, end-user devices and global trends in other digital economies, as well as what is working well across the country by way of the use of the NBN to drive improvements to the way people work, live, learn and play. Where can people go to find out more information about the NBN? The NBN Co website www.nbnco.com. au is the best place to find out information, or people can call our national contact centre on 1800 881 816 with their enquiry. Thank you Darren.

the plug! To find out more about the NBN and how it will affect your area, visit the T.H.E. Exchange Event at C.ex Coffs on June 21.

focusTourism.

Richard Old from Great Lakes Tourism

When people hear the word ‘adventure’, they often start imagining epic, rugged activities taking people to the extreme.

UPDATE Richard Old he days are getting shorter and ship opportunity. This is an important part of cooler. Daylight saving and those the process. If a strategy is too rigid, opportunilong summer days have gone for a ties often cannot be realised. few months. The swimming season is GLT is also working on some big projects. just about over – except for the brave. Activity One of these is a brand new website. The new levels are starting to slow. Winter is around the site will have a completely revised look and feel. corner, and we are all starting to think about It will be interactive, so consumers can create layers. trips and download maps. The new website Rather than slowing down, however, this is the will also be smart phone friendly, so anyone at time that Great Lakes Tourism (GLT) takes it any time can get online and explore the Great up a notch and focuses on strategic Lakes. Our website is one of our most planning, marketing program important marketing tools and development, training and a critical contact point. The taking stock. tourism team has spent a long GLT will have This is the best time to time working on this project a brand new site reflect on the past months and is very excited about the interactive webone and review what worked launch in July. that is smart ph and what did not. Then, We are also well into the . friendly in July importantly, ask why did it consumer show season, with work, or why it did not. the Great Lakes represented Just like any business, it is at holiday expos and caravan important for GLT to take the and camping shows across the time to evaluate progress and state and in Victoria and Queenwhere needed, make course corrections. sland. These shows are an important part This is a normal process and I might add, just as of the marketing mix. Each show attracts thouimportant for an individual as it is for a business sands of potential visitors and provide a chance or a region. When a plane travels between to talk ‘one on one’ with them. A conversation destinations, it is constantly making slight has far more value than an advertisement. If you adjustments and changes due to wind speeds, are at one of these shows and see the Great turbulence, weather patterns – the trip is never Lakes stand, come over and say hello. a straight line but rather, the best line to reach So as you can see, far from being a quiet time, the destination. Review and adjustments are all this is an exciting time for the region. There is a part of the journey. lot happening and combine this with the fantasFor this process, GLT uses Tourism Australia and tic array of events on, this winter will be packed Destination NSW research, feedback from opfull of great experiences. erators and the community, event survey forms Lastly winter is a great time to take a short and various agency reports as tools to evaluate break at home – why not steal a weekend away the region’s tourism industry. From here, we in the Great Lakes, visit that spot you have almake adjustments and plan for the coming 12 ways talked about, or have a meal in restaurant months. you haven’t been to before. Need more ideas? Inherent within this planning is a significant Drop down to your local visitor centre. Staff amount of flexibility, so we are in a position to there will be able to offer a multitude of options take advantage of opportunities as they arise. to fill a day, a weekend or a week. Opportunities may take the form of a new Richard Old, event, new promotional campaign or a partnerGreat Lakes Manager Tourism & Marketing.

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focusbusiness. with Peter Lyne from Manning Valley Business Chamber.

focustechnology. with Cameron Illingworth from Harvey Norman.

TECH Buzz words in IT

peter lyne. The announcement the National Broadband Network rollout will come to Taree has received enthusiastic support from business, particularly the sectors of health and education. arts of the Manning Valley will be the first regional area on the MidNorth Coast to receive the NBN, and this will give an advantage to our region and our businesses to become a centre of excellence.

technology. Since the announcement, the Chamber has met with Mid-North-Coast Regional Development, who will assist the chamber and business to gain the maximum benefit from the NBN introduction. More good news for the Manning Valley, with the announcement by Greater Taree City Council that a submission with the final design and costings has been submitted to the Department of Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government for the establishment of an Aviation Park at Taree.

Taree is well placed to capitalise on many new opportunities that will be available, and there will be a competitive edge given to Taree as the first to have It is estimated es the rollout of the optical 50 4, 0 business ill w es m and ho fibre network. to the It is estimated 4,500 businesses and homes will have access to the fastest and broadest network services and will be able to access the significant and major shift in telecommunications.

have access oadest fastest and brices. network serv

The network will be a major improvement for the long suffering businesses of regional areas and will have a significant impact in the fields of education, health, business and for community members able to access the state-of-the-art optical fibre. “It is exciting times for the region,” said Neil Hanington, Chairman of the MVBC and GTCC Economic Development Partnership Board. “We are in our first year of our three-year economic plan, and it is pleasing to know that we can factor in and schedule NBN into those marketing plans. “The board can take a leadership role in the digital economy that will be attractive to businesses relocating to the Manning Valley.” The Manning Valley Business Chamber is expecting the Manning Valley region will become a leader on the Mid North Coast, able to introduce digital plans for Taree that will expand and allow business to improve their service delivery to customers and the community with the use of the new 48 manning-great lakes focus.

Grahame Nash, Chairman of the Manning Valley Business Chamber Economic Development Board says he congratulates Council on securing the final design funding for the Aviation Park that will see a growth in economic activity in the area.

He added, “The transport links into the Manning Valley have improved with the new highway upgrades, but local road, rail and air transport services have become out-dated and resulted in poor access into the business and industrial areas, with this lack of local access proving to be a negative when discussing the relocation of businesses into the Manning Valley.” The aviation park is a project seen as essential infrastructure for the Manning Valley, as it is hoped it will bring many new businesses to the region, both directly to the aviation park and to the surrounding business and industrial areas. The Manning Valley Business Chamber is looking forward to be being involved in a marketing strategy for the sale of sites. News in brief from the chamber include the fifth annual Manning Valley Business Awards will be held on September 21, with nominations and further details available next month, and the Chamber’s popular monthly breakfasts will see local State Member, Stephen Bromhead, as its special guest at the Bean Bar on April 27, commencing at 7.30am.

ou don’t have to go too far these days to overhear a couple of people chatting about new forms of technology, and to some, it can sound like absolute gibberish. Terms like ‘Cloud storage’, ‘Gigabytes’, ‘Trojan’ and ‘Wi-Fi’ sound like they belong in a science fiction movie rather than the home, but with an average of 1.6 PCs per home these days (source: AIC.com.au) these terms and others are becoming more and more mainstream. So here I’ll attempt to break down and explain some of these computer related terms.

current standard is Wireless N. It is capable of up to 300 Mbps (megabits per second) at its peak, but can often run much slower depending on the operating environment and nearby interference. The biggest thing to ensure when setting up a Wi-Fi network is enabling network security, so only you and your devices can access the wireless router. Most devices come pre-setup with a network security password and have it printed on the underneath of the unit to avoid forgetting it.

‘Wireless Fidelity’ and describes a universally used form of communication between devices (computers, smartphones etc.) and the internet without connected wires. The connection is via a Wireless modem/router or by adding a wireless router to your current ADSL modem. Wi-Fi has gone through a few changes since its first launch, and the

I could go on forever, but these should give you a bit of a base to work from the next time you find yourself wandering into a PC related conversation. For those who are interested in learning more, Google search ‘IT Buzz Words’ and look for the Wikipedia links for great in depth descriptions of these and more. Happy computing. CI.

Cloud Storage (cloud computing): This term refers to storage space for PC users to access e ar Gigabyte: which is not located inside ho w For those ng ni ar le in A ‘gigabyte’ is a ed the machine but on the interest arch se e gl oo G e, or m measurement of internet. There are large ’ and ‘IT Buzz wordsip memory capacity in a warehouses located ia ed ik W look for the in depth few locations within a around the world which t ea gr r links fo ese computer. A Gigabyte are full of server racks descriptions of th and more. (GB) consists of 1024 loaded with hard drives. The megabytes (MB). Your biggest at the moment are main locations where you find Apple and Google, with these memory are in your RAM (Random companies using Cloud Storage to Access Memory) used to load programs enable seamless and automated backup of to run and also in your Hard Drive. To give PCs and smartphones, as well as worldwide you a rough idea of how much a MB is, an access to personal files loaded into this average MP3 file (compressed audio track) is space. Many antivirus companies like Trend about 4MB, meaning you can fit 250 songs Micro and Norton (Symantec) offer up to on 1 GB of hard drive space. A picture file 25 GB of free storage with their products on or ‘JPG’ (compressed picture) taken with a a subscription basis. Cloud computing uses 5 megapixel camera uses up 2MB, which the power of large servers to load programs, means up to 500 pictures on 1 GB. meaning cheaper PCs in offices and such because they need less power to run the Wi-Fi: programs. The word ‘Wi-Fi’ is a term which stands for

l a m i n A nia ma URE F O C U S F E AT

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A N I M A L M A N I A

Puppy parties at the Midcoast Animal Hospital

al Anim mania URE F O C U S F E AT

Melinda Nunn

Socialisation is the first step in raising a well-behaved dog. During the first weeks of their lives, puppies go through a critical period of development.

hen a puppy is exposed to new people, places, and situations in a positive way, there's a good chance they'll be calm and accepting when they experience them again later in life.

When should socialisation take place? Puppy socialisation should take place when your dog is between eight and sixteen weeks old. Puppies at Midcoast Animal Hospital are vaccinated at 12 weeks of age, this is when we encourage socialisation to take place.

your family. Properly socialised puppies are less likely to develop behaviour problems as they grow into adults. Dogs who don't get early socialisation ur puppy “Socialising yo co may react with fear or me om helps them to be an aggression when they d nd y th al a happy, he ber em are exposed to new m ed av to fit most in. Give us a eh well-b erly op Pr . ily things. It is much call on 6557 2273 to make of your fam ies are easier to teach your socialised pupp lop bookings. less likely to deve puppy to accept new lems ...” Dr Ingrid Martin is back behaviour prob things when they are Ingrid Martin has been on young than it is to retrain maternity leave, after giving them after bad habits birth to her daughter Abby late develop. November. Our warmest wishes and Melinda Nunn is our puppy party leader. congratulations are extended. Ingrid has returned as our choice vet at the Midcoast Mel has been conducting puppy socialisation Animal Hospital. During her absence, she classes for over 14 years. She is one of our was sorely missed by both staff and clients, senior veterinary nurses. Combined with her and we are all delighted to have her back on veterinary skills and puppy behaviour knowlboard. edge, Mel makes an excellent teacher to lead puppy parties. Diagnostic Upgrades In our endeavours to

Why is socialisation important? Socialising your puppy helps them to become a happy, healthy and well-behaved member of

The puppy parties are normally booked out well in advance, and Mel often needs to run these off a waiting list. Luckily, she manages

What Is socialisation? Socialisation is just what it sounds like – socialising. Your puppy should meet and interact with as many types of people, animals, and environments as possible. By the time they reach about four months old, your puppy should learn to be comfortable meeting other dogs, accept being petted by strangers, being handled by a veterinarian or groomer and happily meet a wide variety of people.

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constantly improve our standards, we have invested considerably into digital radiology technology. What this basically means is that

we are not dependent on analogue pictures any more. X-rays are now taken and converted to digital images. It’s like moving from the old photo film we all used 10 years ago onto digital images. Clearly, everyone can see the improvement in quality. The same has happened to our X-ray facility. We have upgraded to now boast digital radiology alongside our already available ultrasound capability and our in-house pathology laboratory. This makes it a state of the art modern veterinary facility in which it is a pleasure to work. “I’m hugely excited to be able to work with digital images. It enhances our diagnostic capability and has added more effective ability in our quest to diagnose ailments in our companions,” says Geert.

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with Tony Elkins from Forster Estuary Charters

. g n i h fis

During April the Mullet have been schooling up in the lake, and it has been spectacular to watch. primary place to target Mulloway.

tony elkins

have even seen over the last couple of weeks where fish have been jumping into moored boats. The westerly winds came and like clockwork, the Mullet run out to sea to spawn. It is an amazing event to watch, and equally amazing to watch our skilled fishermen catch them. The wild caught Mullet is primarily harvested for its roe, which is a prized commodity. Almost half ($5.2 million) of the value of the total fishery in NSW is from spawning run catches on ocean beaches on the Central and Mid North Coast during April and May. The full moon for May is On Sunday the 6th with the corresponding high tides about 2 metres. With high water about 10pm on that day, it would be the ideal time to have a crack at some Jew early in the morning on the 7th to 10th of the month. As I am writing this, there are still a lot of bait fish around and without a doubt, this is the best option when chasing the Mulloway. Either the breakwall on the Forster or Tuncurry side is the

The beaches are not a bad option during May to have a fish. Corresponding with the Mullet run, there should be some nice catches off the beach. The Bream coming back into the lake adds even more to the excitement of beach fishing. There have been some fantastic catches of Bream over the past few weeks in Wallis Lake and up as far as the junction of Wang Wauk and Coolongolook rivers. The beauty of fishing this high in the estuary system is the chance of scoring some nice Dusky Flathead. Soft plastic baits have been working well, along with Mullet strips. There are some good Flathead still getting about in the lower parts of Wallis Lake, with some around the 60 cm mark being taken on the eastern side of Wallis Island in the weed beds on the run up tide. Fish well; travel safe. Tony Elkins Forster Estuary Charters www.forsterestuarycharters.com www.facebook.com/forster-estuary-charters/ Forster-Estuary-Charters/ 0427 431 131.

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Animal Mania

al Anim mania

A Flea-ting moment The creeping creeping, crawling crawling, gnashi gnashing, nasty nibblers are still around! They’re everywhere – in your carpet, between your floorboards, even in your garden, and the bloodthirsty blighters are seeking out your pets too. These miserable little parasites suck blood, make animals – especially puppies – anaemic, they spread tapeworm and cause serious skin irritations. The adult fleas you see on your pet make up just 5% of the total flea population in your environment. Any untreated pet will give fleas the opportunity to breed within your home and produce eggs that can cause future re-infestations when you least expect it. Thankfully, ridding your pet of fleas is easy. Drop in to Cape Hawke Veterinary Hospital, as we stock a large range of ‘state of the art’ products such as FRONTLINE, ADVANTIX, ADVANTAGE, REVOLUTION and COMFORTIS, which are all safe and effective to use on your pets. **ADVANTIX not safe to use on cats. So make a commitment to keep your pet flea free all-year-round. May special – 25% off clipping and grooming. Resister your details on www.capehawkevet.com.au for a free monthly newsletter full of informative pet information. Catch Dr Dave on Pet Talk every Friday at 11am on 101.5 Great Lakes FM. Disclaimer: The article is intended for information only. Call your vet if you have any questions.

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Companion Animal Plan

New Stock In Store

Great Lakes Council has formally form adopted its first comprehensive Companion Animal Management Plan for the local government area.

approac us, Scott Lambert and his As the cooler months approach team are working hard to ensure that your beloved pets won’t go cold this winter! Give man’s best friend a place to curl up this winter, with the fantastic new range of dog beds and blankets.

The Companion Animal Management Plan will be implemented over the next few months, with the initial focus on community education. The management plan identifies the need to responsibly manage the impact that pets can have on the wider community and natural environment. One of the major issues raised by the community was the need for more designated dog exercise sites within the Council area. Council has allocated and released 14 new dog friendly offleash areas.

For those really cool nights or long walks in winter, your pooch needs a stylish dog jumper or coat, starting at just $14.95. In stock now is the great range from KAZOO! featuring a wider cut for the fuller K9 and the harness hatch for easy lead access. Mik’s Pet Barn also has a great range of Cat Igloos. When you spend as much time sleeping as your furry friends do, you would want a comfy place to snooze too!

Each of these areas will be clearly sign posted for ease of use by both dog owners and non-dog owners. Dog owners now have the opportunity to walk their dog to one of the many dog friendly areas, rather than drive.

Soon in stock for our feathered friends are the FAMOUS Happy Huts! The Happy Hut is a great place for your bird to stay warm, cosy and safe. Starting at just $14.95 (small hut) they will keep your bird warm and protect them from drafts this winter.

The Companion Animal Management Plan, including maps of the new dog exercise areas, is available on Council’s website at greatlakes.nsw.gov.au

Mik’s Pet Barn is your one stop shop for all your pets needs, so come in today to pick up all your pets’ necessities from your friendly local independent pet store.

Animaial man

Hair-2-Go Is your pet overweight?

Haiir-2-G Hair-2-Go 2 Go is a modern, boutiqu boutique styling salon located in the heart of Taree, catering to your pet’s grooming and general care. Ian and Julie are committed to providing a professional and reliable service, to give your pet the ultimate grooming treatment. Hair-2-Go caters for all breeds, including fluffy and style cuts for Poodles, Schnauzers and West Highland White Terriers. Their most popular full grooming package consists of full clipping and scissoring, bath and blow dry, ear cleaning and plucking, eye care and nail clipping. For those that are a little less high maintenance, Hair-2-Go has a package consisting of a basic bath, blow dry and comb out. Hair-2-Go have a fantastic range of dog accessories, including: Brushes and combs, leads and collars, harnesses and gentle leaders, worming tablets and Comfortis flea tablets. Dog toys, dog socks, shampoos and conditioners and Cobba Dog Treats (home made). Cobba Dog Coats With winter just around the corner, you can purchase from the range of our own locally made dog coats. Our range consists of polar fleece, waterproof, showerproof and oilskin coats. Our size range is from 15 cm to 72 cm in length. We also have specialty coats for Pugs, Dachshunds, Whippets, Staffies and extra large breeds. Custom making service available at no extra cost. Pensioner discounts available.

Compassionate Pet Cremations Compassionate Pet Cremations is a family owned cremation business servicing the Taree, Wingham, Tuncurry, Forster and surrounding areas. Our service is to give you peace of mind knowing that we will take the utmost care of your loved one, showing them the compassion and kindness they deserve at this sad and difficult time.

Loved ones are treated with dignity and respect by the professional staff, and all of your individual needs will be taken care of for you. How the service works ... once the time has come and you require our services, we can pick up your loved one from your veterinary clinic and return their ashes in an urn of your choice. All pets are individually cremated at the Newcastle & Hunter Pet Crematorium, which has been established since 1985. Your requirements are our priority, and it is important to us that your time with your loved one is dealt with care and compassion.

Unh Unhealthy heallthy h snacks, overfeedi overfeeding and lack of exercise can all lead to weight gain in your pet. Other contributing factors also include: age, breed, desexing and medical problems. Weight issues are common in cats and dogs and can have detrimental effects on your pet’s health and longevity. With excessive weight gain there is also a higher risk factor for disease including: • Diabetes • Arthritis • Heart disease • High blood pressure • Skin problems Visit Great Lakes Veterinary Clinic and sign up for your pets’ fitness planner. With a carefully designed fitness program, combined with clinical nutrition, your pet will soon be back to full health. Pet Fit is a fun and rewarding program, full of healthy diet hints and exercise advice that is carefully monitored by your veterinarian, with regular weigh ins and health checks. You can even enter your pet in Hill’s Pet Slimmer of the Year competition. Make the change today for your pet, so they can enjoy a happier, healthier, future.

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F E AT U R E S T O RY _

W I N T E R

Local photographer, Judith Conning, recently returned from a visit to Yellowstone National Park after photographing both the park and the wildlife in all its winter splendour. Karen Farrell spoke to Judith about her most amazing adventure ...

escribe what Yellowstone National Park is like and why you’ve been lured back to its beauty on three separate occasions. Yellowstone National Park – mention it to many Australians, and they either say “Where?” or they remember Mr Ranger and Yogi Bear and the picnic basket thefts. Many Americans, when asked, put Yellowstone at the top of their must see in the US lists. National Parks in the US are stunning, varied and very people-friendly. Yellowstone is 2.2 million acres of wilderness and visited by an average of 3 million people each year. It never ceases to amaze, from its geothermal features (it is the home of Old Faithful geyser), its amazing geology (much of it is formed by the caldera of one of the world’s active supervolcanos) and its abundant and mostly accessible 54 manning-great lakes focus.

wildlife. It is a wilderness where for the animals it is business as usual and yet to a certain extent, we can witness this. There’s prey and predator, coping with the changing seasons and extreme winter climate; it is nature on a grand scale. I had hoped to see wolves, but did not on the first two visits and as the best place in the world to see wolves is Yellowstone in winter, a third visit was necessary. How familiar are you with the history of Native Americans in the Yellowstone region? I’m aware that Native Americans have had a presence in the Yellowstone area for some 11,000 years, with the impressive Obsidian Cliff providing the material for their stone tools. The name Yellowstone is said to have come from an Indian word meaning Rock Yellow River and numerous tribes – Shoshone, Bannocks, Nez Perce, Crow, Blackfoot and Cheyenne have lived and travelled through this area.

Tell us about the photo tour you participated in which travelled by ‘snow coach’ in Yellowstone in 2012 ... One can only travel through Yellowstone in the winter guided by licensed and permitted guides, and the advantages of photo tours is that they are small groups, ensuring you are mostly in the right place at the right time with the best light and led by experienced photographers. My previous winter visit was on a snow mobile, but this time I felt that a snowcoach tour with Bob Harvey and Diane Kelsay of Nature Photography Adventures would provide a different perspective. All accommodation, travel and most meals were included. There were 16 in our group – seven Americans, eight Spanish and myself. The Spanish contingent were well-travelled and very accomplished photographers, and we now exchange emails and check out each others’ websites.

“The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are ripples of glowing light seen in the night sky when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s upper atmosphere.”

Local photographer

Judith Conning

You participated in a ‘wolf-watching tour’? This was four incredible days with the Wild Side run by two wildlife biologists, Nathan Varley and Linda Thurston. It was not a photographic tour, but an opportunity to observe and learn about the various wolf packs as they went about their daily lives and an opportunity to experience the exquisite Lamar Valley under its cloak of winter white. We saw three packs – the Mollies, Agates and Lamar Canyon packs and were witness to an amazing confrontation between the Mollies and Lamar Canyon. However, standing around in driving snow at 7.30am and -20°C is not for the faint-hearted, but who noticed? In 1995 you’ve said that wolves were ‘reintroduced to Yellowstone’ after the last one was killed in 1927... please elaborate on how the wolves were reintroduced and if a breeding program was put in place? Douglas Smith and Gary Ferguson’s book, Decade of the Wolf, documents far better than I the story of their reintroduction. Briefly, the wolves (31 in all), were captured in Canada over a two year period, transported to Yellowstone and placed in acclimatisation pens for some weeks before being released into the wild, where they quickly established packs and once again took their place in the Yellowstone ecosystem. In 2003, there were some 148 wolves in the park, but today the population is closer to 98, as prey numbers fall to sustainable levels. While this top predator was absent, elk herd populations exploded, the natural balance was out of kilter and various ecosystems were experiencing much damage. Ongoing study is

conducted and many of the wolves wear radio challenges does photographing animals collars and are tracked, changes to fauna and present? flora are monitored and any killing of domestic There are a number of things to remember. stock by wolves outside the park dealt with You are in their territory and all care should summarily. Despite this, emotional debate be taken not to disturb or cause harm. continues to rage over the wolves presence. Animals are not always ‘co-operative’ – they How close are you able to actually get do not pose, stand in the right light or display to the wolves ... I imagine a respectful behaviours you want to capture. distance is encouraged? Sometimes it’s behaviours you’d prefer For the most part, wolves keep their distance not to capture. Your subject is often some from humans – they have been vilified, treated distance away or hidden by foliage or just not horrendously and subject to extermination in the right environment. A good image in most parts of the world. is more than a ‘record’ photo, However, they are extremely so it’s important to become intelligent and have a strong knowledgeable about the social structure. animal/bird and its habits ere w e er th My goal was to and be able to anticipate 03 20 “In s in experience truly wild actions and behaviours. some 148 wolve y the the park, but toda wolves in their natural Most importantly, be er to population is clos ll environment. We had one patient, be respectful and fa rs be 98, as prey num vels.” le day where a wolf pack be ethical. e bl na to sustai appeared comfortable to You also travelled be in close proximity, but this to Whitehorse in the is the exception rather than Yukon Territory, Canada, the rule. Most of the time they in the hope of capturing the are dots on the hillside, spotted by the northern lights (or aurora borealis). experienced watchers and best seen through a What exactly is the phenomenon? high powered spotting scope. However, I was The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are able capture some reasonable images of these, ripples of glowing light seen in the night sky the wildest of creatures. when charged particles from the sun interact Aside from wolves, Yellowstone is home with the Earth’s upper atmosphere. They are to hundreds of species of animals. Tell us funnelled to the Earth’s poles by the planet’s about your favourite animal encounters magnetic field, thus only seen in the far while visiting there ... northern or southern skies; and in the south Any animal encounter is amazing, even the they are known as aurora australis. ubiquitous bison. Seeing their massive heads Simply put, they are a fantastic light show and ice encrusted faces as they try to find which may appear briefly or last for hours and some sustenance under deep snow is truly is best seen on cold, clear nights in places such awe-inspiring. The red fox, coyotes and bald as Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Alaska and eagles never fail to delight and one fox came Canada. The activity peaks every 10 or so years so close I could no longer maintain focus. when solar storms are intense, and 2012 to I’ve yet to see a bobcat or otters, so I guess 2013 is that peak time. there’s at least one more trip in the future and You frequent and have a preference for bears are hibernating in winter, so an autumn colder destinations such as Antarctica, visit is needed. Yellowstone, the Arctic and Canada. Why As a photographer, what sort of the preference for colder climates as

opposed to sun-kissed destinations? I live in a ‘sun-kissed’ place, so just don’t feel the need to travel to such places. At the end of the day, most of us have to prioritise where we go, and for me it’s places which I won’t experience in Australia. That’s not to say I haven’t seen much of my own country, and Kangaroo Island is high on my list. Many of the world’s most incredible animals – polar bears, penguins, wolves, bears – live in cold places, and these are some of the final frontiers. These regions and their wildlife are very much under threat by climate change, an issue I feel strongly about. I am a sponsor of Polar Bears International, so produced a calendar for 2012 of my polar bear images and donated the proceeds to this organisation. It was amazing to watch David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet and know I have seen many of the places depicted. Vincent Munier and Paul Nicklen are two of my favourite cold place photographers – check them out on the net. I prefer to be challenged by my destinations – take the path less travelled, so to speak. I don’t travel to have a holiday; I travel to immerse myself in the experience and to record that experience photographically. I have a passion for photography and travel and consider myself immensely privileged to be able to. Thanks Judith.

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MANNING-GREAT LAKES

property guide.

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Scott Fletcher Builder. Stylish but casual beachside living best describes the May FOCUS Home of the Month; Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being shown through by the Builder – Scott Fletcher.

render to be fully washable and protecting it from the ound just a stone’s throw from beautiful weather, providing a maintenance free exterior cladding. Blueys Beach, the home has been designed An extra wide entrance hallway draws you into the and built expertly to proudly sit on the narrow home and is more than generous, being a 1.8 m width. block of land that is its footprint. Taking full The owners have many visitors, so this is a high traffic advantage of the readily available ocean breezes, a very area and the extra width helps to provide an comfortable, low maintenance seaside dwelling open feel. An doorway on the left of the has come to fruition by a collaboration hallway allows access from the garage. of ideas from the owners, builder and The garage has been installed with designer. By using angles, all of the s panel lift doors either end, allowing Entrance to the home is via the fully ha available space ll fu to for vehicle access to the backyard via a landscaped gardens and concrete drive n ke been ta advantage. covered carport that also doubles as an onto the covered entry patio, with outdoor entertainment area, with access the balcony above providing weather to inside through double glass sliding doors. protection for the front door. The exterior On the right of the entry is the guest texture of the home is a solid colour render; the bedroom, with an entry into the adjoining two-way product used covers the brickwork and the blue board bathroom that can also be used by visitors. The hallway exterior cladding on the 2nd floor, giving the overall flows through to the end of the home, passing by the look of being the same material used for both levels. children’s bedrooms, which have been installed with The render will weather well in the coastal surrounds, modular user friendly cabinetry in each, providing plenty with a clear coating also being applied that allows the

of storage and hanging space behind sliding double doors. A large linen press is tucked away neatly in the hallway, as well as under stair storage that doubles as a wine cellar. By using angles, all of the available space has been taken to full advantage. Servicing the ground floor bedrooms is a roomy bathroom that has everything at your fingertips. Heated towel rails, a frameless glass wall shower, along with a nice deep bath and tiles to the ceiling create a low maintenance, easy clean bathroom area for the children. In all wet areas of the home, underfloor heating has been installed. A concealed laundry completes the downstairs hallway attributes – glass panelled sliding doors have been installed that still let light through into the laundry but you can’t look through them; so you have a centrally located laundry that is hidden but easily accessible to the home and the backyard. continued over

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Scott Fletcher Builder.

The open e plan layout of then residence has be ilt designed and bue superbly to th owners’ brief. At the rear of the home is the 3rd bedroom, adjacent to an entertainment area or rumpus room that looks out onto the private backyard and patio. The rumpus has its own kitchenette, refrigerator, dishwasher and sink – ideal for entertaining or a convenient snack bar for guests. Leading to the 2nd level of the home are beautiful Blackbutt timber stair step treads that have been crafted onsite by the carpenters. The Blackbutt timber is a light colour and blends well with the cream tones of the floor tiles and the paint of the walls. Hardwood stained timber hand rails and porthole lighting at the skirting of the stairs provide an element of safety. An opaque glass double hung panel window has been placed at the top of the first flight of stairs; this, along with the skylight, allows in plenty of natural light in the stairwell. At the top of the stairs a beautiful Blackbutt

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timber floor greets you, opening into the formal lounge, kitchen and dining area that blends into the outdoor entertainment Mod Wood deck, topped off with its own outdoor kitchen. This will be the main living area of the home, with everything provided for indoor and outdoor living. Floor to ceiling bi-fold glass doors can be closed if the weather turns, but generally the whole space can remain open and is a spectacular space with ocean views. A built-in gas fireplace, ‘The Landscape’, will provide warmth when needed in the lounge. Various window styles have been provided by Great Lakes Windows, from louvre, fixed panelled and double hung windows, as well as sliding and bi-fold glass doors – all allow for the inclusion of ocean breezes and natural light. The kitchen is a long galley style, once again designed and built with easy entertaining in

mind. A large island bench doubles as a breakfast bar, as well as an ideal serving area. The island has been installed with a double sink, dishwasher and under bench cabinets. Complete with all mod-cons in place, the kitchen is exceptional and a credit to Viision Kitchens, who have supplied and installed the kitchen and all the cabinetry throughout the home. A large pantry, deep drawers and overhead cupboards will provide plenty of storage space for the home cook. This, along with an attractive display cabinet for glassware, oven, stainless steel range-hood and all the boxes are ticked. An office space and master bedroom make up the remainder of the top floor. The home office has built-in cabinetry and bench space and leads out onto the rear balcony through sliding glass doors, which

have roller blinds installed that when in use block the light but allow you to see outside. The master bedroom is roomy, with a large his and hers double wardrobe that has plenty of drawers and hanging space. A glass sliding door on the rear wall opens onto the back balcony, which overlooks the rear yard, allowing plenty of ocean breeze into the bedroom. The master has its own ensuite with glass walled shower, vanity, heated towel rack, heated floor and WC completing the private parents’ retreat. From the casual beach look and earthy tones of the interior and exterior facade, the varying window styles that capture northern ocean breezes and maximise light availability, to the Blackbutt timber flooring, the home exudes an elegance and subtle luxury that lends itself well to entertaining family and friends. The open plan layout of the residence has been designed and built superbly to the owners brief. All involved are to be congratulated on a job well done.

Scott Fletcher Builder. FROM THE BUILDER SCOTT FLETCHER BUILDER Tell us a bit about your business. How long have you been operating? My building business, Scott Fletcher Building, has been operating since 1997, after doing my apprenticeship in the local area with Danny Godwin. I completed the Clerk of Works Course in 1996 and then branched out on my own, working in the building trade in Western Australia, America and England. What are the types of building that you specialise in? Residential work is our main emphasis, being new construction, renovations and also extensions. I am a carpenter by trade; we have 3 carpentry apprentices and carpenters who sub-contract to us, so the more carpentry in a job, the better for us. In the last 2 years we have also been sub-contracting on commercial work for Ware Building, including Department of Housing work, schools and just recently, the Taree Courthouse. Apart from this home, our latest projects have been a major renovation on a B & B and a small renovation at Burgess Beach. What are some of the featured design elements of this home? This house was designed to suit the long narrow block it stands on. It has an advantage of a long northern boundary, so naturally captures plenty of north east sea breezes to cool the home in summer and lots of winter sun coming through the windows to warm the home naturally during the colder months. The customer wanted a low maintenance beach house, accommodating family and friends. The house also has generous balcony areas for entertaining and indoor/outdoor living. Did the owners have any specific

requirements when they first asked you to build their home? The home owners had already engaged Geoff Riordan, who designed the house. Most design issues were resolved by them. Once we became involved, specific materials and finishes were then finalised. Naturally, we refined ideas as we progressed – the sub-contractors, owners and myself all working together for the best outcomes. You have a strong association with your sub-contractors and suppliers. Tell us more. I would like to make special mention to all the sub-contractors for their contribution – particularly the carpenters, who were here from the start to finish. Michael Moltzen and Brent Gilmour, along with the rest of the crew who came and went throughout the build: Steven Brown, Chris Cheers, Mitchell Machonachie and the apprentices Tom Donnelly, Timothy Bayer and Josh Hook. How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process? My wife Belinda and I live right here in Tuncurry and are always open to genuine enquiries. Building is a big step, not just financially – it is a big process. We can be contacted by email, telephone or in person. Email scotnbin@bigpond.net.au, phone us on 6555 6025 or my mobile 0412 308 643 or in person/mail to 6 Bower Place, Tuncurry. Thanks Scott.

FROM THE OWNERS You chose Scott Fletcher Building as the builder of your new home. How has it been working with Scott and his team? Scott has made our building experience enjoyable. He is supported by an excellent team of carpenters and sub-contractors, from the electrician, tiler, plasterer, flooring specialists and renderers – they all did excellent work.

Would you recommend Scott to other prospective home builders? Yes, we would recommend Scott to other home builders with no hesitation whatsoever. What are some of the elements of your new home that you love? The upper floor living area – comprising the combined kitchen, lounge and dining rooms – together with the outdoor kitchen and the bifold doors, that allow these outdoor and indoor areas to combine seamlessly. Did you have any specific requirements for the design? Yes, we wanted a house that would suit a beachside location, that would be low maintenance and allow for outdoor entertaining both upstairs and downstairs. We also wanted the house to be designed and built to take advantage of the view towards the beach.

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Scott cott Fletcher Builder.

After approval, n tio good communica ilder, between the bu dan’s or Scott Fletcher, Ri and Design Service the the clients madeeasy building process and painless.

F RO M T H E D E S I G N E R G E O F F R I O R DA N The high quality design of the Blueys Beach residence has generated a lot of interest, favourable comments and enquiries from neighbours and many passers-by. It was designed by Geoff Riordan and Robyn Sharrock of Riordan’s Design Service in Forster, in close consultation with the owners, to achieve the design brief within the limitations of the narrow site and Council regulations. Geoff is an Accredited Building Designer and Robyn is a visual artist, designer and Feng Shui consultant. Great Lakes Council has a specific development control plan for Pacific Palms with larger than normal setbacks from side boundaries. The maximum size of the building and the minimum amount of landscaping are also specified. In addition

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to this, the block represented a challenge in that it has a narrow twelve metre frontage. The design brief was for two storeys to maximize views, open plan living areas, 4 to 5 bedrooms with 2 upstairs and 2 or 3 downstairs for visitors. They also required functional outdoor entertaining areas front and back to provide options for entertaining in all weather and wind conditions. Skillion roofing was the preferred style. Clever design and manipulation of space has achieved the maximum potential of the site, meeting and exceeding the client’s brief, with the front open plan living area opening to an extensive alfresco dining experience with excellent views and solar access. The process of the design started with a consultation with the client on site to appraise the site’s possibilities and com-

municate with the clients about their needs and preferences. Draft plans were drawn up and adjusted according to client wishes, with excellent communication between designers and clients. A number of roof and cladding options were explored in the three dimensional modelling process, with a final decision made by the clients. The design came together well and the submission to Council, by Geoff on behalf of the clients, went smoothly. After approval, good communication between the builder, Scott Fletcher, Riordan’s Design Service and the clients made the

building process easy and painless. The result is a unique design that is well suited to the ‘coastal village’ area, showing that limitations can be overcome and enhanced through clever design, excellent communication and positive attitudes. Thanks Geoff.

the plug! Scott Fletcher Builder can be contacted by email, telephone or in person. Email scotnbin@bigpond.net.au or phone 6555 6025 or mobile 0412 308 643 or in person/mail to 6 Bower Place, Tuncurry.

Home Decorator.

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ome H Decorator.

Local family owned. Austral Australian Solar Timbers is a local family owned company ho beginnings in the Australian hardwood industry whose date back to 1919.

F RO M T H E P LU M B E R G E O F F M C C A RT H Y O F F O R E S H O R E P LU M B E R S Foreshore Plumbers are proud to be associated with and a part of the Scott Fletcher Building team. We would also like to wish the owners a happy future in their beautiful new home. I have been involved within the plumbing industry in the Great Lakes area since1980, serving my apprenticeship with my father in his business, McCarthy and Sons. My brother Steve owns the business now and quite often we will work together. At Foreshore Plumbers we believe in prompt, reliable service and a conscientious attitude to our work ethic. We cover all aspects of plumbing, construction, renovation and maintenance and we can assist you with any problem or project. Give me a call on 0419 484 273 or try the email, foreshore2@ hotmail.com – Foreshore Plumbers – We are there when you need a Plumber; that’s Foreshore! Thanks Geoff.

Have you got old carpet or tiles you want to rip up and replace with a timber floor, but don't have the height for 19 mm? Problem solved. AST 85 x 14 mm solid hardwood flooring. Our 14 mm flooring allows you to replace tiles and carpet with solid flooring, without the height of traditional 19 mm flooring but with a similar life. It can be re-sanded as many times as the 19 mm. Call us today and ask about the species and grades available. Along with our renewable, sustainable environmentally friendly certified hardwood flooring, AST also manufactures: Decking – in a range of species and sizes. Sawn Hardwood – bearers, joists, battens – most structural sizes Timber fences – post, rails and palings. Landscape Woodchip and Mulch Sawdust, Shavings and with the cold season almost upon us; Firewood. So when looking to renovate your home come and see AST.

Benchtop specialists. Logan Leigh specialises in laminate benchtops (Laminex, Formica etc), timber benchtops and 2-pack painted kitchen cupboard doors for the kitchen industry and D.I.Y. renovators. There are hundreds of choices of laminate colours and patterns to choose from, as well as our 2-pack painted door range. Following the success of ecofriendly bamboo flooring in Australia, Logan Leigh is excited to announce the introduction of Bamboo Benchtops. These tops are available in lengths up to 4.2 metres long. Bamboo provides an extremely hard surface while retaining the natural warmth and character of traditional timber tops. The cost is very affordable, and we will be happy to quote on all of your requirements. Come in to our showroom and see our new display of bamboo tops and stained colour range. Bring in this ad to receive 10% off all retail prices NEW BAMBOO BENCHTOPS ON DISPLAY NOW!

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forster tuncurry AUCTION ‘Main Beach Penthouse’

Q Overlooking Main Beach Forster offering simply stunning ocean views Q With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a modern open plan lounge kitchen & dining area Q Spacious balconies on both levels offer an amazing outlook whilst also capturing the northerly aspect Q One of Forster’s premier apartment complexes Q This unit is being sold fully furnished & the excellent positioning combined with the magni¿cent ocean views make ‘Whitesands’ a rare ¿nd

Saturday 2nd June 2012 ON SITE @ 1:00 pm Open for inspection every Saturday in May @ 1:00 - 1:30pm and from 12pm on auction day For further enquiries contact Ryan Biancardi on

0432 227 072 or 6555 6555

or call into our of¿ce at 48 Wharf Street, Forster. PID no. 383685

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Another new design with more fabulous new ideas

NICHE

THE SOVEREIGN OPTIONAL GRAND TERRAZZA 3360 x 10150

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Master Bedroom 4550 x 4500 NICHE

Bed 4

Terrazza

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Ref.

Bed 3

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UBO

Kitchen

Bed 2

4320 x 3150 WALK-IN PANTRY

Theatre

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Double Garage 6000 x 5500

Entry

Study

4320 x 2800

24500mm

Patio

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