Focus 56 - New England

NEW ENGLAND

I N S I D E 56

January 2012 // Issue 56

Gavin Flanagan interviews Slim Dusty’s widow, Joy McKean, and well known photographer, John Elliott, about their upcoming visit to the 2012 Jayco Tamworth Country Music Festival

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editor's note.

editor.

H from the

suedee.

Welcome to the January issue of New England FOCUS. APPY NEW YEAR The Anglican version of 'auld lang syne' means old long-since or old long-ago.

How true these words seem, when I think of 2011. Now that it's 2012 and the FOCUS team are back from a well earned holiday, I am happy to report that we are all biting at the bit to bring you new and exciting stories to enjoy. I would like to remind our locals that we invite YOU to submit your story ideas, because after all, it's YOUR magazine. So if you have any interesting topics that you would like to see in FOCUS, please don't hesitate to email me on sue@focusmag.com.au INSIDE THIS ISSUE Our front cover is dedicated to Slim Dusty's wife and songwriter, Joy McKean and his photographer, John Elliott. Find out inside this edition what they are promoting at the 2012 Jayco Country Music Festival.

We also have Grace Gordon drop us a line about her family – in particular Frank Archibald, who is honoured through the Oorala Centre at UNE. Returned Soldier

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Kevin Smith invites you to join him in Borneo in time for ANZAC Day and we also hear from Paul Fogo, who describes his passion for recording wartime and military short films.

We pay tribute to recently departed Sabine Altmann, who dedicated her career to helping victims of domestic violence, and we interview Professor Peter Mckeown, who explains how New England’s School of Rural Medicine is leading the nation in the use of educational technology.

EAT IPHONE APP It’s hard to believe that 2012 is here already. 2011 was an exciting year for the team at FOCUS. We’ve added hundreds of local interviews to our website, released our very own iPhone app and celebrated the 1st birthday of our latest edition, Coffs Coast. It’s been a lot of hard work and dedication by every one of our team to bring out each and every issue.

To keep up to date with what's happening and vote on our online polls, you can add us on FACEBOOK by visiting www.facebook.com/ne.focus Readers can also read every issue free

online and discover hundreds of our past interviews and stories by visiting www.focusmag.com.au And last but not least, if you have an iPhone, then don't forget to download our FREE app Eat. It features a great selection of local restaurants and cafés.

Just visit www.focusmag.com.au/eat BOOK GIVEAWAY WINNER Congratulations to M. Basto. You have won a copy of Captain Thunderbolt and His Lady.

EDITOR'S PHOTO Taken one frosty morning between Guyra and Armidale by Garry Tobler, Uralla.

Great picture Garry.

FINAL WORD An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.

Bill Vaughan.

Sue Dee. sue@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Sue Dee

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ADVERTISING MANAGER: Tracy Le Messurier

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

SUB EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse

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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. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2008 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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focusinterview.

frank archibald

Grace Gordon (nee nee Archibald) is the daughter of Frank Archibald Archibald, who is honoured through the Oorala Centre and UNE – where the annual Frank Archibald Memorial Lecture carries his name. In this story, she tells us about her brother, whose name is also Frank.

Y

our family is quite well known in this area?

Yes. They’ve been well known for years in Armidale. My mum and dad talked to everyone. They weren’t afraid to talk to anyone, and they made a lot of friends. It didn’t matter who they were or what colour – they talked to everyone in the street, in the shops, or in meetings. They got on well with old Mr Piddington and old Mr Hanna – we had to call him Uncle Joe. Tell us about your brother…

Frank was born 21 years before me, but he died at a young age – only 25. I feel like I lost my chance to know him, because I was only four when he went away – and I don’t remember that. He became Private Frank Archibald after he enlisted in Kempsey in August 1940, trained in Greta and later joined the 2/2 Australian Infantry Battalion.

Where did Frank serve?

After he left Australia, he sailed to Palestine and on to Egypt and fought at the Battle of Bardia, in Tobruk, Benghazi, Greece and Crete.

Did you see him after that?

Yes – only for a short time. When I was 8 or 9, Mum received a telegram to say he was coming home to Kempsey.

She said to me, “Come on Grace. Get ready; we’re going in to meet your brother”.

We went in with the manager, Mr Jaeger. We looked all over town for my brother, but we couldn’t find him. On the way back to Burnt Bridge mission, I saw a soldierman standing near the big water tanks. I pointed him out, and my mother said, “That’s your brother”.

Frank used to call my sister and I and the nieces and nephews “the little fellas”. He took us to the flat near the school and he’d play football and rounders with us and turned the rope for skipping. We used stones to play jacks with our mum and dad joining in. We walked the hills, went rabbiting. And we used to sit around the fire and sing and dance too – on Sundays we sang hymns, and during the week we sang songs my father taught us. Danny Boy was a favourite – my grandfather was Scottish.

Frank and my brother Ron were both home for about five or six weeks, before they went off to fight the Japa-

6 new england focus focus.

nese on the Kokoda Trail. Malaria saved Ron. He was lucky. cky and Richard and some of the younger generat generations travel When he was in hospital, they bombed one half of it, and to Papua New Guinea next year for ANZAC day. If we can he was in the other half. So he was okay. But Frank was raise a bit more money, we’ll be able to go as a family. shot on November 24, 1942, trying to save a friend.

Other Aboriginal people must have the same concerns Did his friend live? about family who served in the armed forces being buried I’ve been told that man did survive. So, my brother died away from their country… showing his compassion and courage. He received full miliWe know of other families whose men are buried at tary honours for his burial at the Bomana War Cemetery in Bomana. There must be many more across Australia who Papua New Guinea. A lot of Australian servicemen are burlost loved ones in other battles and other places. ied there. He’s lying with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal What does your family’s experience of war lead comrades who also died at that time. you to think now?

We’ve been told you have the letters When I watch television and see what’s Frank and your brother Ronald wrote going on now, I reckon it shouldn’t r to your mother? happen. Australian boys going over We know of othe en m se ho w es ili fam Yes. I treasure all my brothers’ letters. and getting killed ... I don’t think mana. are buried at Bomany They talked about how they didn’t like they should be going. That’s just my There must be stralia the war, but they loved the countries. opinion.

Au ss more acro es in on d ve Frank escaped from one attack in a If they go, they should be treated lo st lo who other canoe, and he said it was lovely riding in better when they come back than our other battles and places. that canoe. fellas were. They were treated something A special letter sent by Snr Sergeant Ron terrible. They weren’t allowed to drink in Diamond said, “I can honestly say Frank was the pub, because they didn’t have a dog tag, one of the most popular boys in the battalion, and they weren’t allowed in some cafés, and they had his cheery disposition and ready smile, even in the darkest to use the side entrance to get into the pictures. That was hours, made him an inspiration to us all”. an awful way to treat them.

Frank was asked to be a sergeant too, but he said he What is your vision for our country for the future? didn’t want to tell his friends what to do; he’d rather they I’d like to see everyone get together, no matter what told him. So he passed it up. colour they are or where they come from – as long as they You said you lost the chance to know Frank as a brother. talk to one another and make friends. You need to be so How do you feel now you are older? careful now – who you talk to and how you talk to them Myself and my siblings and all Frank’s family and deand what you talk about. Things need to change … I’d like scendants have suffered knowing he’s buried away from to see the drink and drugs go away too. his traditional home. In our culture, when people die, they And one thing I would like to see the kids do is get their are buried in the country of their ancestors. My dad really education. It’s a big thing, education. You need that certifiwanted to fetch him back to Armidale or Walcha. My mum cate to get a job and have a good life. said he was buried and laid to rest and that they were Thanks Grace. looking after the grave up there, so if my Dad was happy they should leave him there. I’d like to bring him back, but I the plug! must honour my parents’ decision.

If you would like information about the trip Grace and her Have you ever visited his grave? family will make to Bomana for ANZAC day next year, or No, but I hope to. My cousin Richard (Archibald), who to make a donation, please contact Brendon Fitzgerald of lives in Wollongong, has been working hard to figure the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation on 0431 014 818 or: something out. Mr Colin Markham, a former MP there, has brendon@illawarraams.com.au helped us a lot. They’ve raised private funds to help myself

new england focus 7

focuscontents.

inside this

Issue 56 - January 2012

Save the brumbies.

13.

At a remote location hidden near Guyra, the New England Brumby Sanctuary was the venue for an Open Day recently.

15.

Friendship Group.

Some years ago, Christine Hunt found herself alone for the first time. This is the story about how she overcame her problem by starting NEW ENGLAND FRIENDSHIP NETWORK GROUP.

31.

Cadet unit.

LEADERSHIP training is a hallmark of The Armidale School’s Cadet Unit. We speak with the unit’s Training Officer, Trevor Thatcher, about this program that delivers lifelong skills. TAS parent, Trish O’Sullivan, also gives her perspective.

11. Paul Fogo – TAFE Screen and Media 17. Ian Downs – NEGS 33. Sabine Altmann – Tribute

usual suspects.

the

14. What’s on for January 42. Star Guide w Terri

24. eat featuring locall restaurants 54. Abode Property Guide

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

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

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focusinterview.

Joy McKean + John Elliott Gavin Flanagan interviews Slim Dusty’s widow, Joy McKean, and well known photographer, John Elliott, about their upcoming visit to the 2012 Jayco Taamworth Country Music Festival.

J

oy, we can’t wait to see you in Tamworth for the 40th Jayco Tamworth Country Music Festival. One of the attractions this year will be Slim’s old Ford Fairlane ‘Ole Purple’, and I believe you’ll be driving it to Tamworth?

Joy: Yes, I am bringing Ole Purple up to the Festival. She’s being all checked over right now as a matter of fact, because she hasn’t been on the road for a while – so she’s just being brought up to date. She’s going to be in the Cavalcade.

But I think we will put her up on a truck.

People can see her a lot better there. She’s been sitting in the garage at home, and Slim used to take her out regularly.

And of course, Ole Purple is one of the stars of The Slim Dusty Movie, which is being shown at the Festival this year in the park as one of a number of family movie nights?

That’s right. I’m going down there that night, and if we can find a good safe place for Purple, she might come down too.

Joy, you and Slim have had such a long association with Tamworth, and I think it’s significant that on the first night of the 40th Festival this year, you and your family are going to be heavily involved in the Opening Celebration – which is essentially going to be a showcase of the last 40 years.

You must be looking forward to that?

I am. I think that’s a wonderful idea to do it as a showcase of the 40 years. I’ll be involved, and Anne and the Travelling Country Band will be too. I think it will be a great opening for the Festival.

The 40th Festival is using the title of the Slim Dusty classic, written by Don Walker, Looking Forward Looking Back as the theme. It sums up the feeling of the 40th Festival.

It has touched a lot of people that particular slogan, and it really does fit so well with what the Festival is trying to show for the 40th anniversary – so we were glad to do that.

You and Slim must have some great memories of Tamworth?

Yes indeed. The times that we have driven up there through floods, and one year we didn’t think we were going to make it, so we flew

and then we flew through storms. Coming up to Tamworth, I remember the very first Awards and the big thrill of getting a Golden Guitar – it was all so unexpected. And you know, the thrill of the Festival and the Awards Night never dimmed over the years.

Your new book, I’ve Been There and Back Again is a wonderful collection of stories, songs and pictures of your life and times with Slim. How did it come about?

A lot of people had been saying to me I should do a book of my lyrics as poetry, and then another friend said it should be a coffee table book with nice big photographs. Then out of the blue, a publisher got in contact asking me to do a book for them – and she suggested a totally different book.

When I told her about this idea, Slim Dusty’s widow, Joy McKean, and she absolutely loved it. So we well known photographer, John Elliott. thought, “Right ... we’ll print al The 40th Festiv the stories behind the songs, is using the titlety how they came to life, what of the Slim Dus by Slim Dusty. You worked with him for 15 Tamworth Country classic, written ok they were based on, what r, Lo ing ke al W years, you wrote and published a book On on Music Festival.

There’s a D they were about, why they rward Looking e.

Fo The Road With Slim and photographed 20 great vibe in Tamworth were written, where they Back as the them of his album covers. Apart from his music, for the event ... were written and what was what was it that made him so special?

It’s amazing for all sorts happening in our lives at that He was fair dinkum; there was no pretence. of reasons.

There was a bit of a time.” And therefore, I decided to use Slim was Slim. He was exactly the same on negative vibe around about the Festival, photographs from my personal albums and stage and off stage, and I remember the thing but it’s amazing how quickly that’s turned from my father’s albums. And that’s how the that really attracted me to him was his loyalty around.

I think there are a lot of people in the book came to be. to his audience.

He was 100% devoted and industry who are pretty thrilled that there’s that The Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey has been committed to his audience, and everything else focus this year, because it’s the 40th, on the a labour of love for you. How is the centre he did had to fi t around that. respect for the tradition and respect for where looking?

Joy McKean’s new book I’ve Been There the Festival’s come from.

I think that the 40th is Oh, it’s wonderful. We just recently had And Back Again about her life and times going to be a beauty! the official handover of the building to the with Slim uses photos from your collection.

When did you fi rst come to Tamworth?

Foundation in the symbolic shape of a key made You must be thrilled with how the book 1978. out of the Red Cedar, and it means that the has turned out?

What were your first thoughts on the whole building is complete. All the car parking, Well, I was thrilled when Joy called and said Tamworth Country Music Festival when lighting and landscaping – and we are now on she was doing a new book and she would like you first arrived? the last leg. We have all the documentation to use some of my pictures. Slim and Joy must Mate, I was thrilled. I was obviously a huge designed for the interior. We now just have to have known from day one that what they were Country Music fan. I like taking pictures of raise the money to build that interior, so we are doing was important, because they’ve got the interesting things, and that was there in all pretty excited and getting ourselves together most incredible collection of photographs from abundance. There was music everywhere ... for a big push this coming year. all throughout those touring years. really great music ... every venue you went to One of the first things we need is to raise Joy’s an incredible writer as well. She’s also had fantastic music. It was the music I loved; it money for safe road access into the building. so enthusiastic and passionate about what she was cool, and there were some real characters.

Any donations would be very much appreciated That’s continued on, and I still get a thrill. I think does. She knows those stories are important to and can be sent to PO Box 70, Kempsey or her and also important for Australia. Being in I’ve been to almost 30 of them, and I still get a www.slimdustycentre.com.au her 80s doesn’t slow her down at all. thrill every year when I go there.

John, congratulations on being appointed Thanks Joy and John.

John, you had a wonderful association with the official photographer of the 40th Jayco new england focus 9

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focusinterview.

Paul Fogo.

Paul Fogo has been producing short films for most of his life. These days he is teaching for TAFE in Screen & Media. In this interview, Paul explains his passion for recording military and social history exhibits.

H

ow long have you lived in Armidale?

After living in Surry Hills in Sydney, where we all thought we were the center of the universe I moved to a small College town in Massachusetts. It showed interactive element. me how wonderful a small community can be and Even though I was an active anti-war activist in how the stress factor can be diminished. I arrived in my youth, I gained a reputation as a producer of Armidale in 2005. wartime, military and social history exhibits. As soon When, where and why did you learn to produce as I returned to Australia, I began teaching for TAFE videos? in Screen & Media. During that first year I produced My older sister took me to see European Art House the largest projections ever done at the Art Gallery films while I was in High School. At the same time of NSW. For THE GODDESS Exhibition, opened by I attended Worker’s Education Association everyone’s favorite Goddess, Margaret Olley, I classes on Film. I had edited the school shot footage of clouds here in Armidale magazine and was looking for some and had images of Hindu and Buddhist other artistic, extra curricula activity.

Goddesses appear and fade through So I started out self-taught and I will also be the clouds. s then went to TAFE in Newcastle teaching course On the basis of this project and al in the use of Soeci where we got to use the local work I did in the USA, I was asked to Media to th all television station’s studio after sm join a team designing and producing community & . the news had gone to air. I later ss ne exhibits for the post-WW2 Gallery busi went to University to study drama at the Australian War Memorial. and Art School to learn more film Letter from Long Tan became the first production technique. My music videos commissioned film to go into the permanent were shown on all the networks on the early collection of the AWM. It is screened in a purpose Eighties. My skill set has grown through hands on built theatre seating 15 at a time. It is expected that experience,. around eight million people will see it over the next How did you become involved with The ten years. I suspect President Obama may have seen it Australian War Memorial? on his visit there last month.

While I was working at the Art Gallery of NSW, Tell us about your film on The Battle Of Long I produced large scale installations to compliment Tan? exhibitions. All of my work in the USA was done The film is structured in three parts: the prologue specifically for the Museum Environment, I produced provides a brief context for the Battle; middle section exhibits for National Mississippi River Museum, is a re-creation of parts of the Battle itself; and the Harry S.Truman Presidential Library and the National epilogue describes the aftermath as told by a letter D-Day Museum in New Orleans. I knew more about from one of surviving diggers. As there are no rubber American history than most Americans. plantations in Australia, we opted for a hardwood Unlike Australia, most financing for museums plantation near Mackay. The skies were perfectly blue in America comes from the private sector. The each day of shooting but we needed to make it look National D-Day Museum was financed by Tom like it was happening during monsoonal rain at dusk.

Hanks, Spielberg and the Tabasco fortune. I often I put together a highly experienced crew, including had huge budgets to work with. The centerpiece, one of the best Special Effects directors in the country. ten-minute film for Mississippi Museum’s cost one He had done all the realistic gun fights in the film and half million dollars. Many of my exhibits used The Proposition. Half way into pre-production I was diverse media combinations – some were elaborate informed that I could not show any blood as school soundscapes while most had some sort of visitor children make up a large proportion of the audience.

Nevertheless, I managed to keep the Special Effects department busy creating explosions and smoke. The Australian Defense Forces and Reservists chipped in with help and probably contributed half of half million dollar budget for the ten minute film.

The film is projected onto a curved screen using three high definition projectors. The sound was mixed down from 97 tracks to a 7.1 surround with some serious bass effects and the sense of bullets flying overhead.

Your fondest moment in film?

After surviving damp days with artificial rainmakers, deadly snakes and all manner of explosions without any OH&S incidents, as we were wrapping on the final night one of the armorers offered our nurse (and one of safety officers) a chance to fire a pistol.

As the shell ejected, it hit her on the forehead, right between her eyes leaving a tiny drop of blood. A perverse irony!

What are you teaching at TAFE? I deliver courses in Screen & Media to High School students through the TVET program. We also teach three qualifications, beginning with Certificate IV and going through to Diploma and an Advanced Diploma.

Some of our students are with us for nearly five years. We have a great success rate with graduates being employed in a range of crew role in film and television. There’s a broad skill base in filmmaking with writing, directing, camera operations, lighting, sound, editing and production management included.

Our students get a taste of all of these and tend to select an area they are good at or love.

Plans for the future?

I guess I am one of the chosen ones to have the NBN functioning in my home. The new technologies in the delivery of learning and creativity using fibre optic bandwidth fascinate me and I am keen to be part of the experiments that are happening in this area. I will also be teaching courses in the use Social Media to Community and Small Business as this sector grows. It’s incredible how all this can happen living in a small town in rural Australia. new england focus

11

your

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say.

Video

Last Month.

01:47

OF THE

Who serves the best meat pie in the New England?

MONTH

6% Guyra Bakery 22% Ridgy Didge Pies

Moxon’s Bakery

This Month.

What’s your favourite local Pub?

64%

4% Moons Bakery 4% Other 50 votes. Please note: This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate.

vote online at www.facebook.com/ne.focus (click on questions)

VIDEO BY: Benjie & Mitch Videography.

ABOUT: A short video of some of the scenery around Armidale in NSW. Brillantly well shot, and even the music is original. Well done – a fantastic video showcasing our local area.

WATCH AT: www.vimeo.com/32441752

Local Author. Geoff Quaife.

Title. The Black Thistle

LOCAL

READ

In 1651, a fatally wounded Scottish trooper is found by an English patrol. Before he takes his last breath, he reveals the details of a major plot being hatched against Scottish leaders and English generals within Clarke Castle. Luke Tremayne and his sergeant, Andrew Ford, have just arrived in Oban, Scotland, via the English republic’s newest man-ofwar, the fifty four gun Providence. Luke and Andrew receive details of their mission from their new ally, David Burns. After Burns briefs Luke on the Scots’ 3 political groups, 6 assailants go to Burns’ chambers and lose a pouch that contains a coded message. Luke discovers that he must not only rescue prisoners at Clarke Castle, but must also uncover the local leadership of a secret organisation created by the King. AVAILABLE AT: Dymocks Armidale.

Image of the month.

“I found this frog while exploring Gara Gorge, near Armidale. There were dozens of them in the grasses around the pools, I think they’re Eastern dwarf tree frogs (Litoria fallax). They’re very small, beautiful frogs, less than 3 cm long.”

Photo by: Yinika Perston Camera: Canon ‘PowershotShot’ A480 Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

Let us help promote your local book or music album.

Send us the details to editor@focusmag.com.au

W H AT ’S I N

season.

with Robert Gasparre from Armidale Farmers’ Market

focusreview.

by Marie Wall of Bistro On Cinders

local dr p.

Mihi Creek

Raspberries, riees blueberries, blu lueb eber erri ries es mu mulb mulberries lber lb berri ries i and blackberries blackberries, to name but a few. There is no doubt that berries are the jewels of summer. The advantage of berries grown in a cool climate is that they have time to develop flavour, colour and texture. There are a number of berry growers in our region. Some are set up so that you can pick your own, and some bring their fruit to the Farmers’ Market.

2001 Viognier

The Viognier (pronounced vee-on-yah) grape is believed to have its origins way back around 300 AD in the Rhone Valley of France. It is quite a rare variety, and at one stage in the mid 1960s there was thought to be less than 10 acres under vine world wide.

Berries are famous for their high antioxidant levels.

Antioxidants combat the destructive free radicals generated by the body that cause ageing and health degeneration. They are also loaded with pectin, a type of fibre that can help lower cholesterol. However, one hardly needs a reason to eat them!

The grapes are extremely tricky to grow due to disease pressures and although it responds well to a lot of hot days, it also does very well in our region’s cool continental climate.

Aromas of apricot and marmalade, a slight citrus lift with a subtle touch of oak, palate has medium weight and creaminess, with strong tropical fruit flavour and lovely acid balance.

Berries do not have a long shelf life and should be eaten within a couple of days of picking, to experience them at their best. The aptly named ‘Summer Pudding’ is made with fresh berries, sugar and bread and served with cream or icecream.

COST: $20 per bottle.

AVAILABLE: This wine can be purchased via the Mihi Creek website: www.mihicreekwines.com.au

12

new england focus.

WHERE

The Armidale Farmer’s Market is on the first and third Sunday of every month in Curtis Park. For more information, visit www.armidalemarket.com

focuseditorial.

Save the

and Brumby Sanctuary was At a remote location hidden near Guyra, the New Engl en. the venue for an Open Day. Photos and story Brett Dols he sanctuary was established in 0ctober 2008 to care for Brumbies removed from Guy Fawkes River National Park and to conduct a breeding and adoption program to preserve blood lines of horses under the management of STB, or Save the Brumbies. A second sanctuary managed by STB is near Bellingen and cares for horses not suited to adoption.

On arrival, visitors were greeted by Jan Carter, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Save the Brumbies Inc. tax deductible charity (STB) and a small team of volunteers dedicated to the saving and protection of wild Australian horses known as Brumbies. The word Brumby may have originated from James Brumby, who in the early 1800s released horses into the wild; however, the Aboriginal word ‘baroomby’ also means wild horse.

Jan, a professional musician, who plays both classical guitar and harp, was outraged when confronted with the news in the year 2000 that aerial shooting had slaughtered 600 wild horses in the Guy Fawkes River National Park near Armidale. Some horses were wounded, only to die some time later from their wounds. Jan had previously ridden trails in the area and seen the wild horses in their natural environment. As a result, Save the Brumbies Inc. was established and following negotiations, a Steering Committee was set up leading to horses being removed from the parks and placed in the care of interested horse groups. It should be noted that wild horses are still regarded as feral animals in Australia – unlike the USA, where Mustangs are protected and heritage valued.

Jan has personally produced a music CD titled Run with the Wind, with moving arrangements of classical guitar and harp dedicated to the Australian Brumby. Proceeds from sales of the CD are just one of the fundraising methods used for the charity.

She will not own a mobile phone, as her precious time is taken up with caring for the horses and maintaining the property; however, each day includes responding to enquiries by email, as well as keeping sponsors updated on their horses.

The Bellingen Sanctuary homes on average around 15 horses cared for by Jan. These horses are in need of high care due to being orphaned, injured, down in condition or aged. The care for these horses is provided by sponsorships, where sponsors can visit and be kept updated on the progress of their chosen animal. It is a highly rewarding and personal way to help the wild horses. During the recent floods at Bellingen over $20,000 of damage occurred to the Bellingen property, but it failed to meet criteria for flood relief.

Jan and STB have also been involved with organisations and

governments in other states, including Queensland, where aerial slaughter is still permitted.

Horses are still being shot, or trapped in National Parks and consigned to abattoirs for slaughter. Driving into the New England So far there ve ha been over sanctuary to the right were four mares 200 horses with their young foals on a large field of adopted from m healthy grasses, benefiting from good During the Open Day, visitors were given the STB progra rs rain falls throughout 2011. To the left a display on the handling and training of and many othe were two Apsley Gorge Brumbies (Tictoc young horses who are part of the breeding sponsored. and Safina), transported to the Open Day and adoption program held at the sanctuary. by the Oxley Heritage Horse Association. A In a heartwarming display, Megan Hyde, working little further along could be seen Brigitte Bardot, with the young colts and fillies, showed her skills in a Palomino sponsored by the actress of the same name. preparing the young horses. The colt STB Basil was touched Parking in the undefined space near the homestead, one for the very first time by human hands. could see four young yearlings in another field – three ready As new horses arrive in the sanctuary, both Megan and Jan for adoption and one still undergoing training. The horses at are excited to name the new residents based on themes that the sanctuary are Guy Fawkes Brumbies, whose bloodlines have included music, historical figures and characters. can be traced back to a stallion named Saladin from the The small and very select breeding program ensures the early 1900s. These same bloodline horses were used by the conservation of the blood lines of the Guy Hawkes Brumbies.

Australian infantry in both world wars and made famous by the As a result, the Australian Brumby Horse Register has been Lighthorsemen. In another larger area of some 200 acres were established and horses are now seen at selected shows. It costs three stallions not seen on the day due to the rugged country. around $1,200 for a horse to be prepared for adoption, and The sanctuary was chosen due to terrain that best replicated each horse is carefully matched to his new owners. the environment the horses came from when captured. The The horses are always in good condition, disease free, and generosity of several people led to the availability of the 1,375 Brumby owners will swear by their loyalty, trust and trainability. acre Guyra property, and all funding comes from private sources Maybe one day we will even see these Heritage Horses and fundraising by STB. play their role in Anzac Day Marches, working with children So far there have been over 200 horses adopted from the and people with disabilities and as an attraction for local and STB program and many others sponsored. There are many overseas tourists. people on the waiting list for horses; however, due to the The future for the Guy Hawkes Brumbies is unclear and with higher than usual rainfalls of 2011, few horses are currently organisations such as Save the Brumbies Inc. the founders being removed from the Guy Fawkes National Park, where it is are also getting on in years. As a charity and volunteer based estimated that around 500 horses roam. Of concern is that with program, not only is financial support needed, but also suitably strong growth within the park, breeding may be higher than dedicated individuals to carry on this work into the future and usual. It is National Parks policy that all horses will be removed to preserve this wonderful Australian icon. Of course, this may within 5 years – a concern to STB, as government policy may all become a lot easier if both Federal and State Governments revert to earlier unacceptable management and controls. recognise the Brumby as an integral and important icon in Jan Carter and the STB would like to see two full-time Australian History and provide funding and protection to our experienced horsemen employed by National Parks rather than beautiful wild horses. the Park Rangers, already fully occupied with other duties, being used. This, she feels, will be the best management, the plug! ensuring the government achieves its goals and that all horses For more information or to support this great are saved and humanely relocated to appropriate groups. cause visit www.savethebrumbies.org The NSW Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner is Patron of the or phone 6655 2224.

New England Brumby Sanctuary. new england focus 13

W H AT A T’’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / J A N U A RY 2 0 1 2

what’s

First Saturday chats The next First Saturday chats will be hosted

by Christopher Serow (Principal Solicitor) at the offices of Legal Minds, 157 Beardy Street, Armidale between 10am and 1pm on Saturday 7 January 2012. This is a popular program, and bookings are essential on 1300 642 166.

When 10am to 1pm; Saturday 7 January.

Where Legal Minds, Beardy St Mall.

Contact 1300 642 166.

Australia Day Celebrations in Armidale On Australia Day we come together to celebrate great Australians.

Don’t miss the official Citizenship ceremony and Australia Day Awards beginning at 11am, followed by fun activities for the whole family from 12.30pm.

When 26 January. Where Armidale Showground.

Contact 6770 3869.

18-29 ‘Movies in the Park, 2012’

26-28

Guyra Shire Council proudly presents free films on Australia Day at Tingha Sport & Recreation Club, New Valley Road, Tingha, with Zookeeper (PG). Then at the Guyra showground, Dutton Parade, on January 27, with Zookeeper (PG) & January 28 with Cars 2 (PG).

Guyra y Lamb and an Potato festival Come on down. You You’ll have a chance to discover that the Lamb and Potato Festival is ‘top of the range’ for food and fun – so make yyour way to Guyra and check it out for yourself!

When January 18 to 29.

Where New England Highway, Guyra.

Contact 0423 875 5 515.

When January 26 to 28.

Where Tingha and Guyra.

Contact 6770 7110.

Home is where the heart is.

Sometimes we need a bit of help to stay in the home we love, surrounded by friends, family and treasured possessions.

14 new england focus.

No matter what your needs are, from one-off visits by highly-trained nursing staff to 24/7 full-time care, locally-owned and operated The Home Nursing Group is ready to help. Our team provides all the care and assistance you need to stay safe, comfortable, in familiar surroundings and in control – at HOME.

www.homenursinggroup.com.au ÷ 02 6772 8968

focusinterview.

NEW ENGLAND

Friendship Group Some years ago, Christine Hunt found herself alone for the first time. This is the story about how she overcame her problem by starting NEW ENGLAND FRIENDSHIP NETWORK GROUP.

H

ow long have you lived in Armidale?

I was born in Armidale Hospital and have lived here all my life. Apart from the beautiful summers, Armidale has education, music, drama, scenic views and for those keen bushwalkers like myself, the National Parks.

What motivated you to start up the New England Friendship Network Group?

I started the New England Friendship Network Group on 26 March 2008 at the Armidale Bowling Club. Back in 2007, I found myself in unfamiliar territory – alone.

This was a very difficult and dark period of my life; however, after many counselling sessions and time to reflect, I began to realise there were others out there feeling the same way – especially at Christmas time. Even though I had friends, most of whom were married, I felt I needed to do something not only for myself but for others in the same situation – over fifty and finding it difficult to socialise and fit in.

This triggered the idea of starting a group for like-minded people – those who felt alone and those finding the older you get, the harder it is to start mixing again (this is the main issue for most people joining our group).

How many members do you have?

This year we are celebrating our fourth year of operation, and since our first meeting with 10 people in attendance, 100 members have registered with the New England Friendship Network Group.

How do you make the group fun?

The New England Friendship Network group actively participates in bush walking, picnics, visiting wineries, ten pin bowling, tennis, movies, dancing, BBQs, concerts, weekends away and breakfast together on market Sundays, to name a few.

It is what you make of it, and the current members certainly know how to enjoy

themselves and have fun.

What do you get out of it, Christine?

I love to organise – functions, activities and surprises etc. I get a lot of satisfaction seeing people regain their own power and start to enjoy their life again. Being in the company of happy people wanting to enjoy life has a contagious effect. We Loneliness and have members from all are interlinked th al he cult walks of life, all with and remain diffi e – it’s th ct te de to something to contribute ships quality of friendt the and share with the no r, te at m at th le we group – this becomes number of peop ves el rs ou nd very rewarding. ou rr su with.

The group also has This is a great way to start support from organisations socialising again in a safe such as the Bowling Club, environment. where we hold our meetings every What are some of the group’s month – and recently our Christmas party. special memories?

The manager, Phil, has supported our group Apart from trips to Valla Beach, Moree Spa from the beginning and continues to help Baths and weekends at Girraween National out in any way he can.

Park, the most memorable event was the Wayne from the Ten Pin Bowling Club ‘Relay for Life’. One of our members (Barb) is another person and organisation always was diagnosed with cancer, and the group willing to support our group – especially decided to be part of the fundraiser for each month when we hold our bowling cancer. Even though Barb is no longer with night, serving excellent meals and with us, it brought the group closer together friendly service. and made us realise that life is short and we What sort of feedback have you received should all enjoy every moment we have. from the members of the New England Do you hold regular meetings?

Friendship Network Group?

Monthly meetings are held at the Armidale Regaining one’s confidence has been Bowling Club, where members gather for the overwhelming factor members have lunch at noon, followed by the meeting at mentioned since joining the group. Also, 1pm. having someone organise the events has I facilitate the meeting, and members been much appreciated. are encouraged to participate and discuss We can all become very busy at times, so activities and ideas for the upcoming month. to belong to a group that arranges activities, A newsletter is then sent to all members members feel they belong to a group that outlining activities held on most weekends. cares and understands without judgement.

Plans for 2012?

Is it a singles club?

Apart from the usual activities planned No – it is a friendship group for singles throughout the year, we look forward over 50. When I found myself alone and to new members joining our group and over 50, I decided I wanted to still enjoy becoming part of our family. I never life and mix with other like-minded people. envisaged that the New England Friendship

Group would grow to the extent it has and have so much impact on so many people’s lives. We look forward with anticipation to a bigger and better year.

Who is eligible to join, and is there an age requirement?

If you are single, alone and over fifty with a sense of humour and wanting to get back into meeting others, we invite you to take the next step and come and join us at the next New England Friendship Network lunch and meeting – the first Sunday of the month at the Armidale Bowling Club at noon (no membership fee).

Alternately, you can call me (Christine) on 0488 726 105 or Judy on 6771 1237.

The New England Friendship Network respects people’s privacy and is not involved in personal counselling or dating services.

Loneliness has only recently emerged as a disturbing feature of society and remains largely hidden in communities.

Loneliness and health are interlinked and remain difficult to detect – it’s the quality of friendships that matter, not the number of people we surround ourselves with.

It can be very easy to feel alone even if you are surrounded by a crowd. ‘We humans’ are social beings, and without regular contact we can experience loneliness.

Thanks Christine. new england focus 15

focusinterview.

Ian Downs.

It’s been a busy 12 months at New England Girls’ School.

We speak with outgoing Principal Ian Downs about the year that was.

T

he most visible development about the school is the building work going on. How are things progressing?

The flagship project, of course, is the Primary Industries precinct, comprising a huge indoor arena equivalent to 12 tennis courts and an 18 stable-complex, to be officially opened in February.

Secondly, there has been plenty of building work to consolidate the St John’s Coeducational Junior School on the one site, centred on the historic Horbury-Hunt designed building. Now, all our St John’s students will be in bright, refurbished classrooms filled with natural light.

We have also been awarded Block Grant Authority funding of $850,000 to refit our science labs, including a rooftop learning space.

So there’s no standing still!

The school is about students as much as buildings – many have had considerable individual success, particularly in sport?

Indeed. Holly Harris became the 17 years girls NSW champion in the sport of mountain bike riding, and at the first leg of the national titles in Perth last month, more than held her own against girls two years older than herself.

Kayla Wicks has had a tremendous year on the Tennis Australia junior circuit and is well on track to a national ranking in the top 200. Equestrian students Anna Moxham and Meagan Nolan both qualified for the Equestrian Australia National Interschool championships in Victoria, while Lexie McCullach and her kayaking partner from TAS set a record in the 111 km Hawkesbury Canoe Classic.

Showing that our young women can hold their own against the men, Hannah Laurie was awarded an Australian Cricketers Association mentoring scholarship, following her selection in the Armidale Invitational XI that played

an ACA Masters team that included noted A number of students were delegates to cricketers Brad Hogg and Greg Matthews, conferences of Round Square, the global school amongst others. organisation of which NEGS is a member. As But ultimately we are proud of all our educators of young women, we were also students who strive to do their best and have a proud to host a day-long workshop for Year go – life is all about putting your hand up and 9 students which empowered then to think taking part. and act positively, support others, and face the And not just in sport? challenges placed by society and the media on That is right. A group of our students were peer-related issues such as body image. awarded second place in the Border Rivers The broader NEGS community also had the Gwydir Catchment Management Authority opportunity to come together. The second Property Planning competition, while another NEGS Beauty, Fashion, Hair, Health and group designed the winning chicken coop in a Wellbeing Expo was a successful community SLEX competition. and industry event. We were also Students showcased their delighted to welcome back to creative talents in the NEGS the first Mrs World This has been d Armidale Eisteddfod, the Australia, Carin Hillmanse reflected in incratea TAS musical Grease, Varma, who was the guest ld attendances acOross and the St John’s Junior at the inaugural Foundation Girls’ meetings d at School production of Rose Ball, that raised funds Australia an the g rin du Seussical Jnr. for our scholarship program. ns reunio nd in ke ee W s’ irl G ld Ending the year was You have just retired as O September. the magnificent news that Principal of NEGS. Looking 37 of our 41 HSC students back over your time at the achieved early acceptance into school, what have been some of a university – many in the medical your proudest achievements? and science area, and also business. That is I was fortunate to be a member of a team significantly higher than the past few years and which undertook an extensive review of the is a great credit to the girls and their teachers. school in 2009. From the 700 individual pieces There were some unique programs the of data we came up with 28 recommendations, girls took part in as well?

27 of which have been enacted. The school Yes. Three of our senior students visited has also been able to commence repayment of Canberra as part of the Micah Challenge’s our interest and debt to the tune of $700,000 ‘Voices for Justice’ project, during which they in 2011. This is a significant achievement and lobbied politicians to help combat poverty at consolidates the long term future of NEGS. a global level. Our local Federal Member Tony The confidence the Federal Government Windsor accepted their invitation to be part has in the school’s future is reflected in the of another initiative, the third Walk in Our continuing funding of our capital works Shoes Day, which raised awareness across the program. The most recent grant for the school community about the plight of the refurbishment of the science building followed disadvantaged. an intensive audit of the school’s finances, and

this project will provide NEGS with state of the art laboratories.

Finally, the engagement of the alumni of this School through the drive of Mary Wright has been quite remarkable. This has been reflected in increased attendances at Old Girls’ meetings across Australia and at reunions during the Old Girls’ Weekend in September.

What is your outlook for NEGS in 2012?

There are many positives on the horizon – the appointment of an extremely well qualified and experienced Principal; the transformation of our financial base; the growth in enrolments; the positive community support; our restructured Parents and Friends’ Association; the interest being shown in NEGS from overseas; and, high staff morale, are all pointers to a magnificent outcome in 2012 and beyond.

And finally, what lies ahead for Ian Downs in his second attempt at retirement?

Having worked continuously in education and other roles for the past 49 years, it will be difficult not to remain active in the years ahead. I have been honoured by the NEGS Board of Directors to join the Board in 2012 and along with my Directorship of Homes North, the non-profit housing organisation in northern NSW, I have a readymade professional focus in Armidale for the foreseeable future. I have been a thoroughbred racing steward for the past 25 years, and hopefully this role can continue, and it is also my intention to rejoin the local Lions Club – an organisation I abandoned in 2009.

On a personal plane, Shirley and I have a passion for gardening, and we need to revitalise the garden at home, wshile fishing and playing golf (I am a veritable hacker!) will occupy some of my spare time.

Thank you, and best wishes Ian.

new england focus 17

what’s

for the

meet a graduate

T att i an n a P orr terr

What postgraduate course did you study?

I’ve just graduated with a Master of Business Administration from UNE. Why did you choose to undertake postgraduate studies at UNE? UNE provided both the range of subjects and the sexibility I required. Having looked at other programs offered by other universities very few provided the scope of subjects that were included in the UNE program. It was also convenient having trimesters and being able to study one or two subjects in a trimester or take a break if required.

How did you balance your study with other commitments?

I now live on the Sunshine Coast, but commenced my

studies while living in Darwin.

The great thing about doing an MBA through UNE is the sexibility. Working full-time meant I wasn’t always able to completely commit to my study schedule, but UNE has been more than amenable in assisting me in completing it. The Graduate School of Business staff are really supportive and helpful, and their customer service is great.

How did your postgraduate quali cations assist you in your job?

UNE’s MBA assists you in your work, because while you’re studying and working, you get to relate theory and practice meaning you develop so much professionally and personally. I am employed as a manager in an Industrial

ord wo ick w uiick a qu

Debra D br B Bennell nn Debra Bennell, the Director of UNE’s Oorala Aboriginal Centre, was pleasantly surprised when, on her arrival at UNE in January 2011, the Armidale Aboriginal community turned out in force to meet her at a “welcome” morning tea.

Debra’s first year at Oorala coincided with the 25th anniversary of the

on ?

Relations consultancy and my studies gave me insight into the complexities of the workplace. Although I had recognized them prior to studying, by resecting on what I was reading and discussing with others I was better able to understand how and why these things occurred. This gave me greater conrdence to effect change in my workplace and a much better focus on what I wanted to achieve and how I could do this.

What did you enjoy most about what you are studying?

Applying new information to the workplace and being more resective in my work.

This made me more effective in my job and led to greater job satisfaction. I thoroughly recommend UNE’s MBA.

Centre, which was founded in 1986.

Throughout the year, the involvement of the Aboriginal community in the life of the Centre has been, as Debra said, “phenomenal”, with almost the entire Elders’ Council attending an anniversary morning tea in December. “The community is an integral part of Oorala,” she said. “And Oorala participates in virtually every event involving the Aboriginal community.”

Photographs of staff members, students, and community members from throughout Oorala’s history are

for January 2

012

UNE re-opens When n 3 January

Specia al an nd Summer Exams Sta art When n 23 January UNE wou uld d lik ke to o wish h everyo one a ve ery y safe an nd pro ospero ouss ye earr an nd we look forw ward to see ein ng yo ou at UNE in n 201 12

on display for the Centre’s anniversary celebration. Seeing those photographs, Debra said – and particularly the ones of graduates – always made her stop in the course of a busy day and think: “Yes – that’s actually why we’re here.”

Since 1990, the Centre has seen the graduation from UNE of more than 550 of its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. “We’ve helped them to make a difference to their own lives, and now they’re making a difference to the lives of others,” Debra said. “It’s wonderful to see that.”

focusinterview.

Photo: Professor Peter McKeown

une partnership

he School of Rural Medicine will be the first medical school in Australia to incorporate iPad technology and the National Broadband Network (NBN) into its course delivery strategy. Starting in 2012, the university will provide iPads – and the necessary technical support – to first-year medical students as part of a pilot program.

Together with the University of Newcastle, its partner in the Joint Medical Program (JMP), UNE offers a fiveyear Bachelor of Medicine degree program. The use by UNE’s School of Rural Medicine of iPads linked to the NBN is designed to eliminate any disadvantages faced by the school in delivering the joint program from its regional location.

“UNE has a long-standing reputation for excellence in distance education and the innovative use of e-learning technologies,” said Professor Victor Minichiello, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of UNE’s Faculty of The Professions. “This latest innovation is a further expansion of that strategy and an immediate response to the direction outlined in the Strategic Plan.

The use of iPads linked to the NBN is an example of how the university is making that Plan a reality.”

“The introduction of iPads linked with the NBN is a decisive step by UNE’s School of Rural Medicine in levelling the playing field in the delivery of the JMP program,” said Professor Peter McKeown, the Head of the School. “Students in remote places will be able to access courses online using the iPad as an interface.”

“The introduction of iPads is only one part of our strategy with our University of Newcastle colleagues to build the best medical school in Australia,” Professor McKeown continued. “It’s important to remember that a poor-quality lecture remains a poor-quality lecture, no matter what the delivery medium. As part of our mission to improve the quality of medical education, we will focus on making every educational endeavour interactive and meaningful – be it a lecture, a simulation experience, or a problem-based learning

Innovations in the University of New England’s School of Rural Medicine exemplify the university’s aspiration, as outlined in its newlypublished Strategic Plan, to lead the nation in the use of educational technology.

session. Ongoing assessment will be an integral part of the program.

“The iPad will allow us to use the advantages of the Internet and the McKeown said that the NBN could NBN to deliver the JMP program enable the school to become – in to students in any part of UNE has a long-n effect – “an international medical tatio the State, the nation, or the standing repuce school in a rural setting”. in for excellen tio world.” n “And our demonstration ca u ed distance UNE has an affiliation with e iv at ov n of the effectiveness of this in e th and the University of California communication technology in use of e-learning Irvine, which was the first technologies medical education,” he added, university in the United States “indicates its potential effectiveness to use iPads in its medical at the doctor-patient level.” school. Stanford University and the Professor McKeown said he was University of Minnesota soon followed grateful to UC Irvine for its generosity in suit. In a related development in the UNE-UC sharing its state-of-the-art facilities – and particularly Irvine partnership, a group of UNE medical students to Dr Harry Haigler, an Associate Dean in the UC Irvine recently became pioneers in medical education School of Medicine, who is leading the organisation of when they were transported, via the Internet, to a the teaching links with UNE, and Dr Suzanne Strom, specialised training facility in the United States. In one Associate Director of the Medical Education Simulation of the first international links of its kind, five students Centre at UC Irvine, who led the students through the from UNE’s School of Rural Medicine joined their exercise. counterparts in the School of Medicine at UC Irvine for The five UNE students interacted with Dr Strom and a training session in one of the world’s most advanced her students during the simultaneous session. One laboratories for the simulation of medical procedures of the UNE students, Sam Phillips, said that it had using sophisticated and responsive manikins. had provided “a valuable adjunct to the theory” they The training session took the students through a had learnt. And the technology behind the manikins scenario that enabled them to apply their knowledge themselves was “awesome”, he said. The same of pharmacology and physiology to the treatment of a adjective could be used for the communication link lifelike (and realistically vocal) ‘patient’ suffering from itself, which flowed seamlessly from beginning to end. heart failure. The interactive link was relayed to the Professor Minichiello said that the interactive school’s main lecture theatre, where it was observed by teaching link with UC Irvine was an example of “the many other UNE medical students and staff members. opportunities that the NBN is providing for connectivity The JMP (in which the University of Newcastle through partnerships”. “It allows a rural university such and UNE are in partnership with Hunter New England as UNE, which has the innovative use of e-technology Health and Central Coast Health) has a special focus as part of its Strategic Plan, to become global in its on regionally-based medical education and practice, outreach and to link its students with national and and this gives it a particular interest in the use of international expertise,” Professor Minichiello said. broadband communication technologies such as those “This means that you don’t have to be in a metrooffered by the National Broadband Network. Professor centric environment to have access to excellence.” new england focus 19

focus on neram

Children’s Holiday Workshops at NERAM CRAZY JUNK SCULPTURES with Jonathon Larsen will be held on Tuesday 10 & 17 January 2012 from 10am to noon. This workshop is for all ages and is inspired by Robert Klippel’s sculpture in the current Almanac exhibition. Children will design and build a sculpture with personality using unusual objects. Cost is $15 and includes basic materials.

RADICAL REARRANGEMENTS with local artist Matt Pilkington is on Wednesday 11 & 18 January 2012. Assemble found and discarded materials into an artwork in a similar method to Rosalie Gascoigne’s artwork currently on display at NERAM. This

workshop is also for all ages. Cost is $15 and includes basic materials.

COLOUR EXPLOSION with Jonathon Larsen will be held on Thursday 12 & 19 January 2012 from 10am to noon.

Get bold with colour and shape using paint. Everyone’s welcome. Cost is $15 and includes basic materials.

The popular POP ART CLAY WORKSHOP is on again with Jonathon Larsen on Thursday 12 & 19 January 2012 from 1pm to 3pm. Be inspired by the work of artist Robert Rauschenberg and turn everyday objects into art using clay. All welcome. Cost is $15 and includes basic materials.

FELT TIP THEATRE CO. WORKSHOP will be held on Friday 20 January 2012 from 10am to 4pm. This workshop, available for children ages 5 to 11 years old, builds skills and confidence using drama games and performances.

Loads of fun! Cost is $50 for the full day workshop, $10 deposit required on booking.

Paul Holman; Representative for Tony Windsor, Mr Bruce Clarke; and St Joseph’s School Board Chairman, David Garrahy.

A message from Senator Chris Evans, the Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Jobs & Workplace Relations congratulating the school on its achievements was read by School House Captain Isabella Kirk.

Monsignor Peters thanked the Federal Government for its financial support and unveiled a plaque acknowledging their contribution. The Principal, Paul Slattery, thanked the builder, Gary Burton, for a wonderful job and outlined

how the building had been completed on time and within budget. He also acknowledged the wonderful support of many parents, parishioners and exstudents in completing the project.

A special plaque honouring the Sisters of St Joseph and the visits made by Mother Mary MacKillop (St Mary of the Cross) was unveiled by Sr Mary Quinlan and the other Sisters present.

The students then entertained the crowd with a rendition from their concert performance, Reach for the Stars. The celebrations culminated in the annual parish/school fete with a large crowd in attendance.

more info.

NERAM hours: Tues – Fri, 10am to 5pm; Sat and Sun,10am to 4pm.

Phone: 6772 5255.

For more information www.neram.com.au

focuseditorial.

Celebrating 125 On the weekend of 3 and 4 December 2011, St Joseph’s School celebrated 125 years of Catholic education in Uralla.

This coincided with the centenary of the Parish and the 150th anniversary of the first Catholic church in Uralla.

150 guests attended the celebratory reunion dinner on the Saturday night.

Special guests included ten Sisters of St Joseph, who travelled from all over the state to return to the school where most of them had once taught.

Sunday morning Mass, officiated

by Monsignor Wayne Peters, was followed by the blessing and official opening of the new library/hall facilities.

Official guests for the ceremony were: Monsignor Wayne Peters; the Deputy Mayor of Uralla Shire Council, Cr Michael Pearce; the Provincial of the Sisters of St Joseph, Sister Mary Quinlan; the Catholic Schools Office Executive Assistant, 20 new england focus.

focusinterview.

Armidale Business Chamber.

2012 – a big year ahead for the Armidale Busines Business Chamber. The Armidale Business Chamber has been growing in leaps and bounds over the last couple of years.

So what does The Chamber have in store for 2012? We spoke to CEO Elizabeth Egan about the year ahead. hat are some of the new activities the Chamber is adding to its 2012 calendar?

We’re very excited about the year ahead, especially some of the new opportunities the Chamber will be able to provide to its members. We have entered into a significant partnership with Westpac’s Davidson Institute, which will bring their highly acclaimed financial education programs to Armidale. We are also partnering with ‘yes Optus’ in 2012 for a series of Digital Technology workshops, which will not only help local business keep abreast of technological advances, but also help them engage with the opportunities the NBN will bring to the city.

These types of programs are not generally available in regional areas so we’re very pleased to have secured them for Armidale.

Our involvement with the wider Armidale community is also very important to the Business Chamber, especially our close relationships with The University of New England and the Armidale Dumaresq Council, and we will continue to build on these partnerships for the

W

benefit of our members.

The Chamber recently installed a new Board and an extremely energetic and enthusiastic new President in Susan Cull, so 2012 is looking very positive.

Will there still be the regular events the Chamber has become so well known for?

Our regular events form the heart of the Chamber and help us to stay in touch with the types of events and information our members need. Our Members Meet is a monthly evening event which provides our members and the wider community an opportunity to engage in the issues that concern them.

There is always a guest speaker or a panel discussion and an opportunity for members to share their ideas and give feedback in a relaxed social setting.

The New England Enterprising Women’s breakfasts have been hugely successful and will continue in 2012. These are a monthly event for local business women getting together to share their stories of success: the challenges and the inspirations and to meet other ‘enterprising women’.

We also run focus groups with member

businesses throughout the year. These comprise a small number of participants at a time and help us get to the real ‘nitty gritty’ of the issues and challenges of doing business in Armidale.

There wasn’t a Chamber Business Awards event in 2011. Will this be seen in 2012?

Yes, of course. We’ve decided to move the Annual Business Awards to a June ceremony this year. We thought it was more appropriate for a celebration of local business to be held towards the end of the financial year and away from the already hectic ‘Christmas party season’.

The Business Awards celebration has become an important event on the Armidale Business calendar and gives exposure to the wealth of business expertise and quality products and services thriving in the region.

In previous years, major awards have gone to The Phoenix Foundry (Uralla), ICT International (Armidale) , Kerry Turner and Liz Moffitt (both recipients of the New England Enterprising Women’s Award) and NAB Business Banking (Armidale).

Will there be any changes local

businesses should be aware of?

There’ll be a few new categories this year, including a Creative Industries Award and separate awards for Tourism, Accommodation, Pubs and Clubs, Cafés and Restaurants.

All categories are judged by a panel of judges who will be looking for the unique qualities of the nominated businesses and what truly sets them apart. This might be an innovative product, attention to quality, relationship building with clients, or perhaps the development and adoption of technology to improve efficiencies.

We’re really looking to recognise the businesses who are going the extra mile to provide and outstanding product or service, or who are trying something new; a bit ‘outside the box’.

What’s the nomination process for local businesses?

Nominations open on 1 February and can be made online through the Chamber website: www.armidalechamber.com.au Businesses need only nominate once, and the winners will be announced at our Gala event on June 1.

Thanks Liz.

new england focus 21

focusinterview.

Attention all history and war lovers. Local gent Kevin Smith invites you to join him in Borneo to see for your self what our ANZACS went through during the Second World War.

Attention all history and war lovers. Local gent Kevin Smith invites you to join him in Borneo to see for yourself what our ANZACS went through during the Second World War.

H

ow long have you lived Actually, I did get to Korea about thirtyin Armidale? five years later as a consultant for UNESCO. Helena and I have lived I guess that staying at a top hotel in Seoul in Chestnut Avenue for 41 beats being in a freezing foxhole on top of years. We came here from a snow-covered mountain.

Ashford Central School, where I had been When and why are you off to Borneo?

Principal for a year, following my time at It is an escorted tour for eighteen days the University of Florida. I came to Armidale in April and May. 2012 is the 70-year to take up a joint Teachers’ College/UNE anniversary of the first Australian prisoners appointment to teach courses in Education of war being sent to Sandakan. I’ve planned Administration, at the invitation of the late an extensive tour for persons interested in Professor Bill Walker. We had also lived in the gentle adventure of visting this exotic Armidale for a short while in the mid-1960s. island, where headhunters roamed just Tell us about your experience in the over two generations ago. For those who war. treasure memories of family members Well, in 1951 I enlisted and who were there as POWs, it is a trained for the Korean pilgrimage. war, but then the Army For tour members decided they had other interested in a little ecoAs usual, we shall trace the 45 plans for me ... the tourism, we guarantee route of the 19 , Army can be like that. some fascinating death marches W I was to become an experiences. Above all, PO t and will visi at s instructor for the early I want tour members te si camp intakes of National to share my pleasure Sandakan, Ranau and Kuching.

Service, then I was in meeting the friendly involved in interviewing people of Borneo, at their new recruits. Sitting on cultural events and in their my backside, sending others off market places. On my Borneo to Korea, was not what I’d enlisted for.

Reflections tours, we also dine at times Later, I successfully completed a Military with Borneo people – some of whom have Intelligence course. Apart from that Regular their own family connections with the Army service, I have also served in the wartime years of enemy occupation and Hunter River Lancers (Walcha troop) and the local resistance. the NSW Mounted Rifles (Forbes troop).

Is this your first tour to Borneo?

So – sorry Sue – no war experiences. Helena Far from it, Sue. I’ve been there ten times has more personal experience of war than in all, either doing research for my books, I have. Maybe that frustration of youthful planning tour itineraries, or leading my own plans is what caused me to take up military tour groups on four occasions. history after my retirement.

What should people expect to do and I’ve also had some experience with the see on this tour ?

Navy, including a patrol boat visit to the For many, ANZAC DAY at Sandakan, Ashmore Reef in 2002 – quite an adventure on the site of the former POW camp in for a bloke in his early 70s. My more the cool of early morning will be a significant involvement with the RAN was highlight. A similar very special visit a few writing an official Report on Submariner days later will be to the pleasantly laid Morale in 1986. That was thanks to top out Commonwealth War Graves on Labuan level introductions by Derek Norton (now Island.

Secretary of the Armidale RSL Sub-branch).

The sanctuaries for the shaggily red-

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haired Orangutans and the pot-bellied, long-nosed Proboscis Monkeys are of great interest to many travellers, as is majestic Mt Kinabalu, the highest peak in SouthEast Asia at 4,093 metres. The ensuite accommodation I’ve arranged equals that of any motel in Armidale. We definitely do not camp in the jungles or use huts in native kampongs. We do not undertake treks, but enjoy travelling by modern airconditioned coaches. Our clientele do not look for luxury, but are people who do look for comfort.

My 2012 tour will visit the locations of Australian commando operations by ‘Z’ Special Unit as a unique aspect of our travels. As usual, we shall trace the route of the 1945 death marches and will visit POW camp sites at Sandakan, Ranau and Kuching. I shall be providing informative commentary at many such places along the way. One previous tour member had this to say: “The groundwork and planning by tour leader Kevin Smith, New England Travel and Willie Teo of Destination Borneo left no stone unturned. We are so grateful to you for the thoughtful, caring and compassionate way you planned and operated the whole trip”.

How can one book for the Borneo Tour?

New England Travel is again handling the air travel by Malaysian Airlines and the financial arrangements for my Borneo Reflections 2012 tour. Passports are necessary, but visas are not required. Glenys Williams can advise on all of these logistical details and is looking forward to signing you up for this tour of a lifetime. Either Glenys or I can provide brochures giving a complete summary of the tour.

I am hoping that eventually we shall have twenty registrations from reasonably fit people aged between 18 and 80 from all parts of eastern Australia.

Our only disappointment is that Sue Dee says she is unable to come with us.

Thanks Kevin.

As usu we sha trac the rou of th 194 dea

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focusinterview.

Kim Kim McConville from Beyond Empathy (pictured 2nd on right) recently won two major gongs at the International Arts and Health Conference held in Canberra. She won the 2011 National Leadership in Arts and Health, Award for Excellence and Beyond Empathy scooped the Health Promotion with Art, Award for Excellence.

W

hy did you start Beyond Empathy?

I started Beyond Empathy in 2004 with the financial backing of our current chair, business and social change leader, Anna Buduls. Anna had been my mentor for several years and continues to be a close friend and driving force behind the organisation.

At the time, I was working with another community arts and cultural development organisation Big hART. The Artistic Director of Big hART always said art was a wonderful tool for building empathy. Indeed it is – for the audience or the viewer who seeks to understand the circumstances of others – art is a great way to walk in someone else’s shoes.

But I always wondered how understanding actually changes the opportunities or options for those sharing the story. I knew empathy was part of the deal, but what intrigued me was how we move into action and truly enable change for the creator – what is required to move from compassion to translation – how do we go beyond empathy and into action?

I knew this required tenacity, lateral thinking, and a capacity and willingness to build skills.

This knowledge, combined with a commitment to the arts as an enabler for change, and Beyond Empathy was born.

So along with my friend, artist/film maker and long term colleague Phillip Crawford and Deni Scot Davis, Anna invested in the crazy idea.

that reflected back to the community something of itself, providing a powerful meditation on the on m m co g varied experiences that people tin Crea amongst often nd ou gr share around the topic of Remind us about your disparate groups s alcohol. le recent campaign ‘Just through art enaband n io at ic Highlights of 2011? un One Less’? comm e tion to take plac sa er nv There were many highlights co Just one Less is a humble leads to in new ways and tions of in 2011 and the very public yet robust and sometimes changing percep ’. er th awards are wonderful, but o ‘ the confronting community they are not the reason we get conversation that seeks to out of bed in the morning.

Over raise awareness about alcohol the last 12 months, we have used and its place in our community. BE is arts led processes to connect people who are talking about risk taking behaviours in young disenfranchised with their community and local people, why some young people fare better support workers and to broker relationships than others and what inspires parents and the between them. Creating common ground broader community to become positive role amongst often disparate groups through art models. Just one Less is a community art and enables communication and conversation to cultural development project that started about take place in new ways and leads to changing 12 months ago as a germ of a passionate idea perceptions of the ‘other’. For change to take and aimed to start a community conversation place, this shift in perceptions needs to take around alcohol. place on all sides.

You might remember it culminated in a live In some cases, people have been helped to public event with the MCA’s Digital Odyssey make connections with participants, artists, tour and the internationally renowned digital and other workers from beyond their local artist Craig Walsh on July 1, 2 and 3 this year. surrounds, broadening everyone’s experiences, The content gathered over the year – more insights and possibilities. This is what is than 300 interviews in the mobile video booth important and when this works well, it’s (a horse float), short films made by six high inspiring and gives true meaning to who we are. schools and community photo portraits – The successes of our young people is always were projected at an unusual outdoor site in a highlight – young people in the Illawarra Armidale over the three nights in July. The winning an award at the Margaret River Short work was integrated into Walsh’s modus Film Festival for their short film 2506, local hip operandi: projecting large images of faces hop group Koorifi ed winning several categories onto community surfaces such as nature and at the Don’t Waste the Popcorn 2011 (New architecture. Drawing inspiration from the England Short Film Festival) in Glen Innes film content, Walsh generated works of art

in November, or one of our young people winning a scholarship to study honours in Photo Journalism at Griffith University in Brisbane.

They continue to inspire and humble us with their courage, resilience and unbelievable creativity.

Does The Community Mutual assist you?

The Community Mutual is an important long term and generous supporter of our Just One Less project here in Armidale. They also assist us with other in kind contribution support such as rooms for local meetings, personalise service and support for our financial management and any other administrative support to make it easy for us to operate as a small business. Kevin Dupe is a passionate champion and advocate for the power of the arts as an enabler for change.

How can others contribute?

Well, as one of 720,000 not for profits in Australia, there is a lot of competition – and we are all vying for the scarce financial support.

Change takes time, and projects can’t expect to reap results in a 12 month or even a two year timeframe. If you truly want to make a difference, you have to commit for the long haul.

So of course, long term supporters, who donate money no matter how small the generous gift is, enable projects like Just One Less to be sustained in our community over the long term.

But money is only one small part of the story.

People can contribute by donating in kind support as well, by backing the Just One Less initiative, by speaking up and being part of the robust and important conversation. After all, change happens one on one, one by one and then in partnership.

For more information, telephone 6772 0101.

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New England

Toasted focaccia with bacon, lettuce, tomato and dijonoli from Altitude Coffee Roastery .

eat. Dining Guide is now available on the App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 new england focus focus.

eat.

Dined with us lately?

Armidale Regency Motel & Restaurant

The Wicklow

We welcome you to have a great night out in our uniquely styled venue – Armidale’s only restaurant with real piano music either played live or self playing technology.

The Wicklow offers an extensive menu, with 14 beers on tap and a fantastic wine list, all designed to enhance your dining experience.

We offer non pretentious, bold flavoured rustic Australian cuisine at great prices – main meals from $27. Our restaurant is a relaxed, smart casual dining environment perfect for any occasion, with a small group or best friend. Enjoy a pre dinner drink in a real cocktail lounge.

From the many delicious seafood options to our famous juicy steaks, there is something for everyone at the Wicklow Restaurant.

Please see our website for our menu and special offers.

Our restaurant is licensed; we have a great selection of wines and beers available.

Head Chef Ryan Charry.

A relaxed, smart casual dining experience.

208 Dangar Street, Armidale t 6772 9800 w www.armidaleregency.com.au

Corner Marsh and Dumaresq Sts, Armidale t 6772 2421 w www.wicklow.com.au

Open Open 6 days a week from 6pm.

Closed Sundays. Bookings highly recommended.

open 7 Days. Dinner: 6 - 9pm.

Lunch: noon - 3pm.

Caffiends in the Mall Caffiends is in the heart of the Armidale Mall and is now open in its beautiful brand new café. Aside from our top notch meals, our chef Tim Press also makes beautiful, delicious, homemade tortes, various friands and slices baked daily ... So indulge with your favourite tea or coffee.

Head Chef Tim Press.

190 Beardy St The Centre Mall t 6772 0277 open Mon-Fri 8.00am til 4.00pm Sat-sun 8.00am til 12.30pm

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focusinterview.

Kirra & David

The Royal Hotel Indulge in our delicious cuisine made with only the best local ingredients and prepared by expert chefs. We are providing a wide array of fine dining in a relaxing and modern atmosphere.

Kirra and David Andrews are the proprietors of the NEW Caffiends.

Head Chef Danou Cullen.

Marsh Street, Armidale t 6772 1444 w www.royalhotelarmidale.com.au open 7 Days. Dinner: 6 - 9pm. Lunch - noon - 2pm.

Altitude Coffee Altitude Coffee Roastery is the perfect place to pick up your early morning coffee before work. Freshly roasted beans are quickly and expertly transformed into your favourite caffeinated beverage to kick start your day.

Hand-made cakes, tempting cookies and tasty light brekkies and lunches (including gluten free options) are just waiting to be enjoyed! Take home some fresh coffee, a premium loose leaf tea or some premium quality additive-free hot chocolate powder.

Plus, we now stock a range of Rockingham Café style crockery that includes everything from espresso cups to tea pots!

Owners Rachel and Darryl Stace.

112 Dangar St, Armidale t 6772 3020 w www.altitudecoffeeroastery.com.au open Mon - Fri 7.30am - 4pm.

Sat 8am -12.30pm. Closed public holidays.

26 new england focus.

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hospitality. I thought it wouldn't be too big a stretch to change from art to hospitality, because I had already spent several years around cafés with Kirra – and having run my ow long have you lived in own business for over 25 years, I knew many Armidale? of the same principles of running a business We have lived here for the would apply. past 4 years. Kirra Why did you move Caffiends? and I had both lived on the When we bought the Central Coast for most of previous Caffiends, we had our lives. Before moving, ideas of how we wanted ght it We always thou the we had lived at Erina the café to look. We at was important th should ea ar e Heights, which had always thought it was front of hous ight, clean become more like a important that the front look inviting, brable for and comfort suburb of Sydney. of house area should e th d an the customers, be up to to We finally decided look inviting, bright, ed ed kitchen ne nctional to make the move clean and comfortable date and very fue food as in order to serv ible. when my property was for the customers, and quickly as poss sold to the RTA to build the kitchen needed to a 6 lane highway through be up to date and very my house and art school. My functional in order to serve parents and brother had already food as quickly as possible. moved to Armidale and had painted a very When we had the opportunity to move good picture of the area, so it wasn't too to the present café, all the changes we had difficult to decide to make the move – which always wanted to make became possible. We neither of us have regretted. are very happy with the new look café, and it What do you like about living here? appears customers are too, because business We prefer the slower country pace and has increased. lifestyle, the climate and the friendliness of Tell us about your chef. the people of Armidale.

Tim, our chef, started his apprenticeship in How long have you worked in Sydney and then continued on in Bathurst. hospitality?

Similar to ourselves, he was looking for Kirra had worked in hospitality for about somewhere quieter and to be closer to 10 years. For many years I had owned and family. He started with us about two weeks operated a successful private art school at after we took over and has been a key Erina Heights. When we moved to Armidale, ingredient to the successful growth of the I didn't have the large studio I needed to café. paint or the foundry to create my sculptures, Describe your menu. and I wasn't keen to start teaching again.

We have an extensive menu and attempt Kirra finally convinced me that I might like to meet as many individual needs as possible.

H

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Guyraand

lamb

festival Plates

Dining Room at

The Guyra Hotel

For a quick bite or a leisurely meal, take a break at Plates, Guyra Hotel.

Sharon and Chris would love to see you at their family-friendly dining room and beer garden, where old, young and in-between are welcome.

Open every day for lunch & dinner, we are located inside the Guyra Hotel and welcome your reservation and function bookings.

Takeaways available on every menu item.

Blue bells

PHONE: 6779 1018

98 Bradley St Guyra

Specialising in beautiful weddings at affordable prices. A vast array of gifts for all your special occasions.

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 10am - 12.30pm 1.30pm - 5pm.

Sat 9am - 12pm.

Closed- 25 - 28 December 2011, 1 - 3 January 2012

PHONE: 6779 1830

Cnr Bradley & Ollera Sts, Guyra.

Jenni Jackson Pharmacist Advice For all of your health and pharmaceutical needs, vitamins, gift ideas, photo printing and much more, call and see Jenni and her team today at Jenni Jackson’s Pharmacist Advice.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm. Closed Wed 1.30pm to 2pm.

Sat 9am - noon. Closed 1/1/12, 3/1/12 and 26/1/12.

A family owned & operated business providing quality, helpful & old fashioned service.

Delivery anywhere in the area.

No job is too big or small, inside or out.

Large range of hardware & building products to help in construction or maintenance of your house from start to finish.

PHONE: 6779 1192 92

PHONE: 6779 1192

106 Bradley St, Guyra. ra.

Professionals onals Guyra Selling rural & residential ential property as well as livestock, we are committed to getting ng the best results for our vendors ors every time! Thinking real estate? Think Professionals!

Professionals Stock and Land Guyra

PHONE: 02 6779 1777 FAX 02 6779 1925 www.professionalsguyra.com.au yra.com.au 100 Bradley Street, Guyra uyra NSW 2365 PO Box 22, Guyra NSW W 2365

28 new england focus.

Dasha’s Hardware

106 Bradley St, Guyra.

158 Bradley Street, Guyra PHONE 02 6770 7100 EMAIL council@guyra.nsw.gov.au

focusfeature.

Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival.

Food and fun in Guyra for our 26th annual festival.

Guyraand

lamb

al festival

the history In 1986, Royce Newbury and Frank Presnell, members of the Guyra Rotary Club, decided that the major products of Guyra, then being prime lamb and potatoes, should be promoted with a week long festival to be held in January.

The first Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival was held in January 1987 in Rotary Park on the New England Highway, to catch the eye of passing holiday traffic and to coincide with travellers to and from the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Over the years, this has proved a very successful tactic, and now it is a ‘must stop’ at Guyra for people travelling to and from the Tamworth Festival.

Rotary Park lent itself for such an event to take place, as it has an amenities block and a tree-lined area stretching on for more than a kilometre, with plenty of parking space.

Since 1987, the Lamb and Potato Festival has continued to promote Guyra. The festival is run each year for between 10 to 13 days in January and always takes in the Australia Day flag raising and other activities.

he Lamb and Potato Festival brings together the whole Guyra community, with members from many organisations helping out each year in the kiosk, doing night caretaker, keeping the grounds clean and tidy, the toilets and so on – working and having fun together. The festival is now far too large to be put on by a handful of volunteers and relies on all this help from the community.

A large percentage of the money raised at the festival is disbursed to community organisations each year. Some funds are kept aside to make small improvements to the kitchen facility, so it can cope with the growing demands.

The festival aims to showcase local produce, so wherever possible all produce used at the festival is purchased locally. It is only where an item is unavailable in Guyra that purchases are made outside town.

The festival has put Guyra on the map over the length and breadth of the eastern states of Australia, with visitors from as far away as northern Queensland and Victoria.

Entertainment Every year has seen a growth in the number of musicians calling into the festival to provide entertainment – many locals and folk from as far away as Sydney in the south, to Bundaberg in the north. The music is predominately Country and is very laid

k and relaxed compared to Tamworth.

Antique Machinery Rally back Working in with the festival, Guyra’s This year will see the return of bands such O Antique Machinery Group hold a rally and as Ophelia’s Suitcase, Rough Justice, The year usually over the Ducks Granddadies, Granddadies Protected Species, Species Mud Swap Meet each year, Ducks, Buck and Peter Denovan, who were all well Australia Day weekend. This year the Rally Bucket rece will be held on Saturday and Sunday 28 and received last year.

C 29 January 2012.

Council has a large blow up, outdoor The Antique Machinery Group has one of mov screen for the movies in the park, so movie the best collections in the northern area of thes will be on again for the final weekend these New South Wales and can be seen most of th festival at the showground. of the the year at the Guyra Railway Station and Car Club Displays: various car clubs come Museum. t weekends, setting up displays of their for the Bike Ride prid and joys for all to admire. pride The new event last year was a guided “T is one area we would like to see “This ride of the old Cobb and Co track, which is grow a lot more,” said President Mepham. approx 50 km long and was hosted by the “If you have a vehicle parked in the shed Armidale Mountain Bike Club, led by locals that would be something of interest, bring it David Harris and Peter Malcom. This down – particularly on Saturday 28th is not a race, but a leisurely ride to the showground and join for the whole family, with exit the car ‘Show n Shine’.” points at 10 km and 20 km We are also expecting s ar ye Over the ry ve for those who don’t think 50 to 80 WWII Military a ed ov this has pr ctic, and ta they can complete the vehicles this year, along l u sf es succ stop’ whole 50 km. Weather with swap meet sites now it is a ‘mustople at Guyra for peand permitting, this will be on for a 3-day rally in travelling to orth again this year on Australia Guyra. from the Tamw Day. New Stalls: Council Festival.

Committee has increased the amount Unfortunately, like all of land available to the committees we are very small and committee this year, and we will aging; some members would really like be extending the stall area to provide to enjoy the retirement they started several more variety and new vendors to Guyra. years ago. So we are very keen to have new This area will now extend over towards the blood, fresh ideas and a few extra hands NAB car park and may even begin to fill the to keep this wonderful showcase of Guyra car park, given we are still fielding enquiries. a happening event … If you would like to The committee hopes that this will also lead help, please see Julie Gittoes at the Gazebo people over to experience the businesses in or contact the president Steve Mepham on L our lovely main street.

Food: this year many of the local food outlets & P Mobile ph 0423 733 700 or contact us here. have put on special lamb, potato and tomato Can we also take this opportunity to thank themed menus, and we encourage people all the local businesses that continue to to visit the various locations and experience generously support this festival year by year. more fine dining and local produce.

So come on down from January 18 to 29.

Rail Trikes: these have made a long awaited You’ll have a chance to discover that the return to the tracks of Guyra, thanks to the Lamb and Potato Festival is ‘top of the range’ efforts of the Machinery Group. Bring the for food and fun – so make your way to whole family down for a great nostalgic ride Guyra and check it out for yourself! along the rail tracks behind the festival site.

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focusinterview.

The Armidale School’s LEADERSHIP training is a hallmark of The Armidale School’s Cadet Unit. We speak with the unit’s Training Officer, Trevor Thatcher, about this program that delivers lifelong skills. TAS parent, Trish O’Sullivan, also gives her perspective.

T

revor, what is your own defence training?

I was a Regular Army armoured corps officer of the rank of Major, having graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy and Duntroon.

I served on tanks in Australia and on operations with the Peace Monitoring Group in Bougainville, prior to transferring to the Army Reserves 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers, and starting at TAS in 2003.

The TAS Cadet Unit has a very proud history?

Very much so. It was formed in 1897 when the school was three years old, because it was felt at the time that to “infuse a military spirit and military discipline into school life would be to our highest advantage”. Nowadays, there is more of a focus on leadership training through outdoor adventure than on ‘military spirit and discipline’. In saying that, the school is very proud of the ultimate sacrifice made by 96 old boys and four staff, who have given their lives in conflicts ranging from the Boer War to Afghanistan, in the service of their country.

This has also been honoured by the school in ventures overseas?

Yes. In 2011 there were two such expeditions.

Six boys visited a number of the First World War Western Front battlefields, and a group of seven TAS students, many accompanied by their fathers, walked the Kokoda Track and similarly paid respect to serving soldiers at important sites along the way. TAS first walked the Kokoda Track in 1997 to commemorate the centenary of the Cadet Unit.

Having led two Kokoda expeditions, I can vouch for the exhilaration of completing such a physical and emotional challenge, and the rich opportunity for parents and their children to consolidate a special bond through experiencing common hardships.

The TAS Cadet Unit’s contribution to events such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services in the Armidale region are quite visible, but less so is the annual leadership training camp. Tell us a bit about that.

The style of training is designed to promote and develop boys’ initiative, teamwork and decision making skills. Additionally, boys in leadership appointments are then trained to effectively communicate their intent to the group in order to successfully complete respective missions. Three courses were conducted concurrently, with 60 boys in total supported by 10 instructors from TAS and the Army. The course was conducted at the TAS Trade Training Centre for two and to We tend to wantbut a half days, followed by n re ild ch r ou t protec another two and a half days rience, if they can expe ow in the field at Jeogla Station develop and gr risk 2010, were trained at an d within a controlle in the Styx River area. Boys ey th advanced level in leadership en environment, th pped volunteer to undertake the ui eq l el principles, navigation and w will be re training – itself an example of to embrace futu communication.

In the field opportunities. leadership. they participated in arduous So what did each course navigation and leadership involve? exercises by day and night in a The junior leaders course was focused range of weather conditions. on introductory leadership at section level (a The cadet under officers course, for senior boys section is a group of nine cadets), for employment wanting appointments as platoon commanders as a section commander. Training was in the and company commanders, revised leadership and fundamental principles of leadership, traits, navigation training and then focused primarily qualities and values of leaders, navigation by day on communications skills. CUOs were trained and night, and communication skills. During the in prepared pubic speaking, briefing, speaker field phase, cadets were exposed to a series of introductions and thank you, and impromptu impromptu leadership, initiative and teamwork speaking. In the field, CUOs were challenged scenarios, coupled with navigation across country in teamwork, problem solving, leadership and by day and night. navigation activities.

The senior leaders course is focused on Trish, what did your son Michael get out of leadership at platoon level. These cadets, who the course? had all completed the junior leaders course in The weather conditions were horrible, but

he felt that made the challenges even more rewarding once they had completed them. Michael believes the skills he has learnt will give him a great headstart when applying for his first parttime job and hopefully show future employers he is prepared to learn and eventually take on a leadership role in their organisation.

The boys do undertake some challenging activities. As a mother, weren’t you worried?

We tend to want to protect our children but if they can experience, develop and grow within a controlled risk environment, then they will be well equipped to embrace future opportunities.

The weather was far from perfect and it did add another dimension to their challenges, but what doesn’t break them makes them stronger.

To be confident to give anything a ‘go’ and not shy away from situations means that our men of tomorrow will be better able to look after their mothers of today!

Thank you Trevor and Trish.

new england focus 31

32 new england focus.

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Sabine Altmann.

A march was held in the Armidale Mall recently to protest against all forms of violence in our society.

person who was sadly missed at the children to attend the local Steiner School.

'Reclaim The Night' was Domestic In recent years, Sabine travelled to Papua New Violence Co-ordinator for the NSW Guinea and began working with the leaders of Police, Sabine Altmann. On Monday 31 remote villages in the Huon Gulf district and the October 2011, Sabine lost her life in a tragic motor Morobe Province. She used her knowledge as a vehicle accident. Here is her story. social worker and homeopath to engage with Sabine was a woman of strength, passion, women and elders and to work closely with clan creativity and courage. She had incredible energy – leaders to address social issues, particularly around and in one day could do what would take most of health, education and gender violence. us a week to achieve. When Sabine entered your This year while working for the New South life, you knew about it and you remembered it. Tall, Wales Police Force, Sabine travelled over much of blonde, loud and direct, she was a loving the north west of NSW and was still able to mother to Niclas and Philippe, and renovate two bathrooms in her house, adopted mother to Atlanta and make several trips to Papua New Sebastian Wessberg.

Guinea, travel through India for In 1995, Sabine Sabine grew up in Hamburg, six weeks, create and exhibit her velled and Stephan trawork, Germany with her mother, artworks, speak at conferences to Australia for in stepfather and brother. Sabine and bring meetings into line, in where they fell h da ne met Stephan Heidenreich, her characteristic way by saying, love with Gun lian ra st Au e who would later become the “We talked about all of this last and th lifestyle. father of her children, while meeting. What are you people working on a housing project doing?” All this while she suffered for street kids in Hamburg. She suspected tuberculosis, anaemia and also studied naturopathy and was underwent major surgery. involved with the peace group and the A courageous campaigner for social women’s movement. justice, Sabine never took a backward step. She In 1995, Sabine and Stephan travelled to Australia confronted the wrongs of the world like a Warrior for work, where they fell in love with Gunnedah Woman. She believed in a future without violence – and the Australian lifestyle. They returned to a future where children were safe. When challenged Germany for a year, where Niclas was born, and on her strong sense of justice, she would say, then immigrated to Australia in 1997 and settled “Nothing is impossible” and got on with the job of in Gunnedah. Sabine began working as a social making things right. She had enormous influence worker and quickly found others to support her even with community programs she wasn’t directly forward thinking ideas. In 2002, Philippe was born. involved with. As one of her colleagues puts it, Shortly after, Sabine and Stephan separated, but “There are women and children who sleep safely in they remained good friends and supportive partners their beds at night, men who have fought the dark in parenting. sides of themselves and won, who laugh and love In 2006, Sabine moved to Armidale because of and now live their own good lives as a direct result Niclas’s soccer interests, and because she wanted of Sabine Altmann”.

new england focus 33

focusinterview.

MARY

Meet Mary Single CEO/Director of Clinical Services at Armidale Private Hospital.

ow long have you worked at Armidale Private?

I have been the CEO/Director of Clinical Services for a little over two years. I started working at the hospital when it was first opened in 1998 as an Operating Theatre nurse. After twelve months, I became the Nurse Unit Manager of that department. After three years, the Director of Clinical Services position became vacant, and fortunately I was appointed to the role. I continued in that role until e two years ago, when I took pl Our motto is ‘Peo d it an ’, on the dual position of Caring for Peoplely do we on ot CEO/DCS. is so true. N their & s nt tie pa e th r When and why did care fo yone families, but ever res for you become a nurse? ca who works here rs often I grew up on a each other. Visitoe happy, property just north comment on th ere. ph os m of Armidale, which I positive at loved. I was a bit of a tom boy and just wanted to stay on the property working with my parents. They told me that in order to do that, I would have to get some sort of career behind me before making that commitment. I went to school at PLC Armidale and when I was in Year 10, a vocational guidance person suggested I get into some sort of medical field. Initially, I thought I would like to do

H

34 new england focus.

physiotherapy or radiography. I knew a few people who were nurses and my sister had commenced nursing, so I decided that might be the career for me. I went to Sydney to do my training at St Lukes Hospital; it was hospital based training then, and I ended up staying in the city. I have been a nurse ever since in varying roles.

What do you love most about your job?

I think the thing I love most about working at Armidale Private Hospital is the people. Our motto is ‘People Caring for People’, and it is so true. Not only do we care for the patients and their families, but everyone who works here cares for each other. We work hard and at times it can be very stressful, but we also have fun.

Visitors to the hospital often comment on the happy, positive atmosphere. I feel very privileged to be part of the fabulous team.

Ramsay Health Care is also an excellent company to work for, providing support and resources as we require.

Describe a typical day in your job?

There really isn’t a typical day for me. As we are a small facility, I wear many different hats, as do many of the people working here. I can start the day by looking at budgetary/business requirements, quickly move to helping out in the Recovery Room or the Medical/ Surgical Ward, onto workplace safety

issues then organise a function. No two days are ever the same. I have learnt so many different things over the years that I never would have imagined I would need to know. I can now have semi intelligent talks with contractors and tradespeople about the workings of equipment such as the boiler, steriliser, air conditioning units or numerous types of medical equipment.

Memorable moments at Armidale Private Hospital?

There are so many memorable moments for me. From the first terrifying day we opened the hospital doors for our first patients in Jan 1998, to the numerous awards we have received for patient and staff satisfaction surveys and excellent results with the accrediting body ACHS for our clinical standards.

On a personal note, I recently experienced some health issues and I will never forget the wonderful support as well as the exceptional care I, my partner and family received. I was overwhelmed by the response from my colleagues. I feel so fortunate to work with such a caring, compassionate group of people.

the plug!

For more interesting women, don’t miss our next issue.

focusinterview.

animalwelfare.

Keep Your animals safe this festive season.

he end of year holiday period brings with it a time of anxiety for those of us who work with companion animals. The holiday period can often be not so merry for our pets.

Here is some advice from the New England Regional Companion Animal Shelter manager, Phill Evans, to help you care for your pets over the holidays.

With all the festive fun, avoid the temptation to feed Christmas dinner to your pets. Fat and sugar can upset tummies or lead to more serious conditions such as pancreatitis. Chocolate is toxic to pets – as are sultanas, onions, grapes and macadamias. If you buy gifts for your pets, make sure they are both safe and non-toxic.

For those planning on taking a holiday and not taking their pets with them, it is not okay to leave them home alone and hope they would

do this, one carer recently said, “It’s extremely rewarding to learn so much about Australian wildlife. It’s tough sometimes, and I love my kids growing up thinking that living with wildlife is just how it is. Saving a baby echidna or ‘Puggle’ is something we’ll never forget”.

Northern Tablelands Wildlife Carers NTWC contributes heavily to the communities of the Northern Tablelands by assistance with the following issues: Indian Minah removal programs, as these pest birds compete aggressively with native birds for nesting sites; If you are carings providing advice and support for nd for the pets of friesure solving issues of keeping Brushe or family, mak ow kn rs tailed Possums from roof spaces and ne fend for themselves. ow you let suggesting residents prevent Brushand contact the es “If they can’t get go tail Possums entering heater and shelter if the pet a boarding spot, they missing. stove flues by surrounding the cap need to take them with wire mesh; rescue of animals from with them or arrange gardens when dogs have attacked them, someone to babysit them. including harmless blue-tongue lizards; and You can’t leave your pet on its monitoring and rescue of koalas from towns own,” Phill Evans said. when they are threatened by dogs and traffic.

If you are caring for the pets of friends or Volunteers are required to do training courses family, make sure you let owners know and to equip them with the right information and contact the shelter if the pet goes missing. confidence to care for different types of wildlife.

Northern Tablelands Wildlife Carers Inc is This year, NTWC will conduct a ‘kangaroo and looking forward to another year of helping ‘the wallaby joey care day’ in the second week in orphaned and injured’, relocating animals that January. New members are very welcome, as have been found in unsafe areas. This group there are a variety of roles needed to help the of volunteers has been operating since 1981, group. and currently has 90 members throughout the Please call 1800 008 290 or visit visit www.

Tablelands. Many kilometres are travelled each ntwc.org.au for wildlife advice and assistance. year to save animals. Asked why these people

WIRES (The NSW Wildlife information Education Service Inc.) is the largest wildlife rescue organisation in Australia. The New England branch of WIRES, established in April 1989, provides a 24 hour a day rescue service for native wildlife in a region extending from Tenterfield to the north, Bendemeer to the south, Ebor to the east and Inverell to the west. The branch is run by a small number of volunteers, who provide their time and much of the expense in caring for rescued animals and birds.

All species of native animals and birds are cared for, and the rescues are many and varied: animals involved in road accidents, entangled in fences, caught in chimneys, attacked by domestic pets, poisonings, disease outbreaks or relocations.

The network of animal carers in various organisations throughout Australia provide valuable front line information in wildlife disease detection and diagnosis. The New England branch is most grateful for all the local support over the years and for all the caring people in our community who take the time to stop and help animals in distress.

The branch is in need of more members and donations. Prospective members can attend a 2day basic training course, usually at Armidale.

More specialists courses are available for the care of birds, marsupials, koalas, reptiles and raptors. See www.wires.org.au for more information.

new england focus 35

Skills forlife

focus feature

in the

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everything you need.

What do we do at the GALA centre? We are quite simply the hub of our community.

We know our local area, the community, local media and local social and economic environment. We deliver a wide range of services tailored to suit your business, organisations or individual needs, including: • Communication services – internet, email fax and other online services and information; • Education and training services – New England Community College offers accredited and non-accredited workshop and training courses for further education or general interest from Computers to Crocheting, Art to Aged Care.

• IT services such as technical support, computer repairs and maintenance.

• Desktop publishing services – design and printing of business cards, newsletters, brochures business reports.

• IT-enabled facilities with the capacity to support business development, as well as service the IT needs of business, local community and individuals.

• IT enabled private meeting rooms with presentation equipment and catering available.

36 new england focus.

• Equipment hire – data projectors with a laptop computer.

• Heritage and Family History information.

• Programs that contribute to the social development of rural communities.

• General printing service in colour and Black and White.

• Public computer access.

• Secretarial services – typing up your reports.

• Guyra Show Society Secretary – you can pay your Membership and pick up Schedules at the GALA centre.

• Passport photos.

We are a professional business and pride ourselves on fast, accurate, high quality services and products. The GALA Centre provides a wide range of modern and up to date equipment and information technology resources for local business, community organisations, students and interested individuals.

in the

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in the office

office f e a t u re

digital colour australia.

Keep it Local – locals looking after locals reliable book keeping.

Need a reliable bookkeeper? The importance of accurate bookkeeping or record keeping is an area often overlooked by many businesses. This may be due to a misconception that this not important, too time consuming or just too costly. Talk to the Australian Taxation Office, however, and their statistics show that 30% of the 12 million Business Activity Statements that are received contain errors.

Accurate Record Keeping can help minimise this error rate.

The management and staff at Wayne Cannon Enterprises can assist you with setting up Tax Office compliant record keeping. The use of computerised bookkeeping software, such as MYOB, can greatly minimise the risk of errors and also give you more timely information as to how your business is performing.

If you prefer, we can set your system up so that you can prepare your own financial statements, or you may prefer to outsource this process to us. You may prefer not to use a computerised system. That’s OK. We can also assist you with manual cash books.

Digital Colour Australia is a locally owned and operated co company based in Armidale for the past 25 years.

We supply both individual and major clients with Konica Minolta world class products, which have won awards from BLI (Buyers Laboratory Inc) for the best product line up 2011.

As a company, Digital Colour Australia commits itself to innovation, ownership of technology and a unique path to market, allowing us to show stability and commitment to the needs of our customers.

We strive to maintain an excellent reputation for customer service; our service department was nominated for the ‘Excellence in service awards’ 2010. This commitment has formed the foundations of Digital Colour Australia’s reputation for quality and leadership that has led to substantial market share in the district.

Digital Colour Australia is part of the ‘Locals 4 Locals’ campaign, which is focusing on local businesses working together. We have recently been able to assist Northern Tablelands Insurance Brokers with their printing needs by supplying them with two Konica Minolta multi-function printers – a great example of local businesses working together.

Competitive Services from The Ascent Group Since 1955, The Ascent Group has been committed to supporting people with a disability to lead fulfilling, productive and independent lives. We have done this in many ways; one is by providing meaningful work and training opportunities which enhance the likelihood of inclusion and acceptance in our community.

The Ascent Group currently assists over 300 people with varying disabilities, support needs and social disadvantage.

Many are employed directly under The Ascent Groups ‘Acacia Park Enterprises’. We pride ourselves on the quality and timeliness of our work and our ability to match and exceed commercial expectations. Currently we provide Document Storage, Secure Shredding and Recycling, Commercial Printing and a variety of packaging and posting activities.

Simply by purchasing services from The Ascent Group, the buyer will receive a competitive service and price and will assist us to improve the lives of people with a disability in our own community. As with the philosophy behind 'Locals 4 Locals', of which we are a passionate participant, we believe we should look after those in our local community first.

new england focus 37

in the office

focus feature

in the

office f e a t u re

tailored business insurance.

John Nash and the Oracle Insurance team have over 25 years’ experience in General and Life Insurance. We will tailor your insurances to suit your business needs.

Any business that operates from an office needs to identify the range of risks that may affect their business and themselves to protect their assets. These risks need to be regularly monitored as the business grows, and the insurance cover adjusted accordingly. A good example is Professional Indemnity insurance, which is essential for most businesses.

Did you know that it is currently one of the more competitive premiums in the market?

Oracle insurance are professionals who will take the time to understand you and your business operations and review your existing cover as part of our insurance programme. We will advise strategies to reduce your risks in a detailed report that can save you time and money.

We administer your insurance needs, so you call us and we take care of the rest. We will ensure that when it comes to a claim, you get the funds when you need them most.

Consult the Oracle to protect your business.

38 new england focus.

indoor plant hire.

Rosemerin has been providing indoor plants for offices in Armidale for over 15 years. Caring for indoor plants in our New England climate has its challenges, but add factors such as low light and air conditioning, and you can find yourself having to replace plants often.

A few dollars per week is all you need to hire your plants.

Included in the cost is the supply of the plant in a decorative pot, along with the maintenance. Maintenance includes cleaning, pest control, watering, fertilising and total replacement as necessary. There is no minimum number of plants – you may only need one large one for your front entrance. The pots are watertight, so you don’t have to worry about them damaging carpets and floors.

We can also supply fresh flowers delivered for your reception weekly. Flowers and plants have a positive effect on staff by increasing feelings of wellbeing. Indoor plants are perfect recyclers. They remove the carbon dioxide we emit by breathing and then release oxygen back into the air for us to breathe. It has also been shown that they neutralise a lot of the chemicals from carpet and fixtures that lead to ‘sick office syndrome’.

new england focus 39

The Armidale Community of Schools

from strength to strength.

Public schools in the New England are thriving. School Education Director, Phil Jones, knows the secret.

“The Armidale Community of Schools is going from strength to strength,” Mr Jones says.

“There is a real enthusiasm for the benefits that are being realised by working together through this partnership.

“There are advantages for students’ opportunities and outcomes, for strengthening the professional enrichment of teachers and for the wider school community.

“Public schools have always offered their students much more than any single school could give students.

“That is an unequivocal strength of public education.

“We are regularly seeing students who flourish because of the district, regional, state and international possibilities that only public education can offer.

“Now the Armidale Community of Schools has strengthened and reinforced those opportunities by adding a new, unparalleled dimension to local education.

40 new england focus.

“The Armidale Community of Schools has further motivated and facilitated our public schools’ passion for providing quality education to all students from Kindergarten through to Year 12.

“It has been a big year for the Armidale Community of Schools, but we are already looking forward to bigger things in 2012.”

Mr Jones said some of the highlights of the Armidale community of Schools in 2011 included: the enthusiastic commitment to working collaboratively; the enrichment opportunities for gifted and talented students; outstanding Higher School Certificate results at Armidale and Duval High Schools; the Community of Schools choir and other creative and performing arts ventures; and strong joint participation in the Armidale Autumn Festival Parade.

Monday to Friday - 28th December to February 11th Departs Newling & Town to UNE

Every child can shine.

Tell us a bit about Kumon? KUMON is an educational program focusing on Mathematics and English. The primary aim of KUMON is to develop self-learning ability – children to study advanced materials beyond grade level.

Many students come to KUMON as strugglers, so chances are they lack confidence in themselves as learners. At KUMON, we start at each child’s ‘easy-starting-point’, so they can achieve 100% accuracy and experience success.

The difference between KUMON and other tutoring programs is that, at KUMON, we don’t stop when strugglers catch up to grade level. That’s merely the beginning! Our programme is not only focused on the content. We focus on the method, so KUMON kids can take their good study habits and self-learning ability and apply them to any new learning situation!

What is your involvement? I bought the business from Niel Druce in August, so I own and run the centre. My role is to administer testing, design study plans and to instruct the students as they study in the centre.

How can our readers contact you? By email at kumonarmidale@bigpond.com, mobile 0437 462 503, or in person at the Armidale KUMON centre, upstairs in Roberston House on Monday and Thursday afternoons.

Departs UNE to Town

Route Newling Courthouse Route Northern Carpark Campus & Town No. No. 485N/C 8.50am

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2012 begins with a well known local landscape artist and art teacher, Kerry Wilson. Kerry often paints ‘en plein air’, and the local landscape visited by Kerry throughout the last 12 months will feature predominantly in her work – areas such as the Blue Hole, Dangar Falls and Bald Rock near Tenterfield.

Many of Gallery 126 regular artists, such as Karl Merten, Joan Relke, Stuart Boggs, Sheree Roberts, Rowen Matthews and Robyn Jackson will also have shows during 2012.

Two group shows will complement the solo artists. One will include a group of emerging female artists, and the other will focus on the natural world as interpreted by 6 local painters of flora and fauna.

Gallery 126 only exists because of the support of the local community and the wonderful, diverse and very talented local artists.

A big thank you to you all for your support throughout 2011, and we look forward to another fantastic year ahead.

483 Dep Courthouse 9.15am

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What’s in store at Gallery 126?

Connections & Diversions

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Saturday - 8.15am to 5.05pm

Connections & Diversions

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Full services resume Weekend of O-Week

Buses do not run Sundays or Public Holidays.

new england focus 41

JA N UA RY 2012

WITH TERRI

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

You’re always searching for and chasing ‘that dream’. This is not a bad thing if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the ‘you’ you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness.

Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.

You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers.

Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive.

Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

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

Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength.

Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22 Your talents have been activated, which will wake up new gifts. Set some new goals now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside, you have your own answers, but unfortunately you are lacking the confidence to listen. Trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong.

Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.

Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides – did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things?

Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.

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.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly.

Spend some time in nature to release your tension.

Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

You Y may be b feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any ‘hasty’ decisions.

Soon you will notice personal change and higher self-esteem. Good luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more, and try to have no expectations of your relationship.

Turquoise is for confidence boosting.

CANCER.

S C O R P I O.

P I S C E S.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

OCT 24 - NOV 22

FEB 20 - MAR 20

You are about to receive a special gift. This was your wish made several months ago.

Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

42 new england focus.

You are entering a new cycle, with lots of excitement and laughter. At first your fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths.

Calcite Brings spontaneity into the picture.

Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change.

You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your new found qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt.

Turquoise is great for self-validation.

It is an exciting time for you dear little fish.

As the fish is the most sensitive to stress of all the animal kingdom, you naturally will be affected by the currents of stress around you, and you may have taken on someone else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY!

Thinking Corporate with legal minds

THINKING

CORPORATE Corporate Directors have a duty and obligation to ensure that the management of their company is carried out in the best interests of their shareholders.

T

hose obligations include proper months. During that period when there is no succession planning. Difficulties director, the company may be completely unable can arise when an individual dies to operate. without leaving a Will. Their estate With no-one properly authorised to make may not be able to be administered quickly and management decisions or act for the company, dependants such as children can be left waiting it may be unable to trade. Banks and other lengthy periods while applications to administer financial institutions, in particular, may be the estate are processed through the Supreme unwilling to accept instructions in relation to Court. When a sole director of a company dies a company’s trading account if they are not without leaving a valid Will, the complications satisfied there is someone properly authorised to and distress can have an even greater impact act for it. and may leave the company without any person Equally, staff and suppliers may not be able properly authorised to immediately manage the to be paid, which can quickly have a deleterious business. effect on the reputation and value of the Ordinarily, if a director of a company dies, the company to the beneficiaries of the estate. If, on surviving directors can continue to manage the other hand, a person is willing to purchase the company and may even make a the company, they may not be able to temporary appointment, pending do so quickly, because there will If you are a the appointment of a new be no recognised owner of the or corporate direct director by the members shares who can authorise their or operate your (shareholders) of the transfer until the executor/ u yo own business at company. Equally, if the sole executrix has been appointed th re su en should ng ni er shareholder of a company and settled the estate. nc co rs te at m ate dies, the directors can Even if the final decision is long term corpore governance ar continue to manage it until taken to wind up the company ur addressed in yo the beneficiaries under the so all beneficiaries can be paid Will.

Will have the shares transferred out, the delay of possibly several to them. Where the sole director is months may mean the value of the also the sole shareholder, however, the company will be much less than it might risk of uncertainty is much greater. otherwise have been if it had been able to Section 201F of the Corporations Act 2001 continue operating in the interim period. does provide that, in the event of the death Proper succession planning for your company of a single member/director of a proprietary or business is an important management company, the executor/executrix or other issue not only for beneficiaries of a corporate personal representative appointed to administer shareholder, but also for the employees, clients the deceased’s estate may appoint a new director and business associates of an entity. Thinking to the company. The director has all the powers, together with the assistance of professional rights and duties of the deceased director and advice will ensure that your business can can keep the company running until shares continue to be appropriately structured, planned are transferred to beneficiaries, who may then and managed without the cost and imposition of appoint new directors if they wish. delays and uncertainty for those that have relied Generally, the executor/executrix is ordinarily upon your leadership, guidance and strategic and most efficiently appointed by means of a planning in the past. If you are a corporate valid Will. Where there is no Will, however, a near director or operate your own business, you relative or other person may have to apply to the should ensure that matters concerning long term Supreme Court for letters of administration of corporate governance are addressed in your Will. the estate to manage the estate. Alternatively, Talk to us. You’ll be inspired! in the absence of any immediate relatives or Christopher K.C. Serow – Principal, Solicitor other obvious people to deal with the estate, the Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent (MARN NSW Public Trustee may step in and administer 0854319). Richard A. Morris. Solicitor, Mediator the deceased estate, but this process can take (LEADR), Director. new england focus 43

focusinterview.

icing on

c ke the

- With Susie Dunn

“Here with a Loaf of Bread beneath the Bough, A Flask of Wine, a Book of Verse – and Thou Beside me singing in the Wilderness – And Wilderness is Paradise now …”

y mother gave me Omar Khayyam’s book for Christmas years ago, and it’s always been special to me.

What better time than now to focus on how indeed we are blessed to have ALL these simple yet wonderful things available to us here.

Let’s tick them off: some very very good loaves of local bread, plenty of pleasant boughs to linger beneath, some marvellous local wines, lots of wonderful local poetry, lots of tuneful singers and choirs – and as well, we have World Heritage Wilderness on our doorstep!

Tick, tick, tick, tick, tick, tick … well, the poet said that was paradise enough!

Our cold climate wines are certainly hitting their straps now. All the work put in by dedicated people here is starting to really pay off, with national wine judges and commentators like James Halliday and Huon Hooke writing that they are punching above their weight.

The time that locals such as Andrew Close of Mihi Creek and Shaun Cassidy of Merilba give to the wider local community in the promotion of our wines is to be congratulated and appreciated. How they can fit in everything they do and yet keep turning up with a smile at so many functions away from their homes and businesses is amazing.

M

44 new england focus.

Most of the wineries try to do their get from that feeling of freedom and bit as much as they can, and they all beauty – particularly when you’ve seem absolutely passionate about been away for a while. what they are doing.

After wandering on and off course, My daughter has just finished a film we ended up at Merilba’s Cellar door now ready for release, and she came without a lunch booking. up from Sydney to relax for a few Although fully booked, Shaun and days. Instead, of course, we started Cassy Cassidy were so welcoming and out on a whirl of activities. How could whisked a table from somewhere, you resist the opportunities? and we settled into a corner We’d gone straight to enjoy looking across from the airport to to the blue hills in the e tim r tte be t ha the Mall for some distance, sipping W focus to w no an th (successful) retail Shaun’s chardonnay e on how indeedhawve therapy and and grazing on Cassy’s to d se es are bl ple lunch at Bistro on goodies.

ALL these simul yet wonderf to Cinders. Vinko We started talking things available Patelis is very about ‘terroir’ and . re us he very informed and the different detectable supportive of the local ‘notes’ in wine. After wines. He and Maree Wall looking at the Merilba South do everything they can to promote Devons, my daughter wondered them in their stylish Armidale bistro. whether she could detect some notes We had a great Topper’s Mountain of clotted cream … gewürztraminer with them – one of I asked the Cassidys what motivated the wines mentioned in Huon Hooke’s them both, and they chorused: Sydney Morning Herald’s recent “Because we believe in it!” column of praise for local wines.

I wonder if they were given a copy He and his fellow judges at the of Omar’s Rubaiyat by their mothers?

New England Wine Show gave no I think I’ll finish this happy festive fewer than seven gold and six silver column with Professor John Moses’ medals to wines of six different grape favourite toast. He learned it in varieties – and another gold and a Ireland, and it’s become mine too. silver to a couple of local blends.

“With the lifting of the forks, and After a happy family dinner on the popping of the corks, let us thank Saturday night, on Sunday the two the Lord Divine for turning water into of us decided to drive through the wine …” countryside just to enjoy the lift you Susie Dunn.

There is no better time than NOW to seek help.

Bones Tyres.

Why did you start your business?

For the past 15 years I have worked and managed several different tyre shops around the area. I really enjoy selling, fitting and repairing tyres, but throughout that time I found that there were things that I wanted to implement to give customers better service, but couldn’t take the desired direction without being the owner. So with the help of my family, I decided to open my own tyre shop here in Armidale at 229 Mann Street – Bones tyres.

Give us an insight into what customers can expect from Bones Tyres.

I can offer most popular brands of tyres to suit any vehicle including tractors and ride-on mowers. I want my customers to walk out knowing they have been given upfront and honest advice and service, which is what we really pride ourselves on. Apart from fitting new tyres, we also repair and can organise wheel alignments and safety checks.

Tell us more about your team?

Well, you will see me here every day, working away. I also employ a full-time staff member, Jay, and have just started a casual when required. There’s also Bulky the dog, who oversees all that is going on.

We are opened for business from Monday to Saturday.

New England Towing.

How many tow trucks do you operate?

I am a sole trader and have been operating for the past 5 years. We now have three trucks in operation. Our smallest truck is appropriate for most of our local jobs; our largest truck can carry up to 8 tonne for the big jobs.

What are the most common call outs?

We do a large number of call outs, ranging from vehicle crashes, insurance work, breakdowns, tractors, bikes and containers. We will collect wrecked cars from you free of charge. We can tow anything anywhere.

What area do you cover?

We cover the whole New England area. In addition to this, we take weekly trips to Brisbane and Sydney. No matter where you need towing to, always ring, as we are willing to go almost anywhere.

Can our readers get a hold of you over the festive season?

Yes, we will be on call throughout the entire festive season.

Our 24-hour towing service will be available to anyone who needs us; so if you need towing, give us a call.

Quit Smoking.

Quitting smoking can be one of the most difficult, yet rewarding things a person can do. Most smokers say they would like to quit – and may have tried at least once. Every day brings a new reason for quitting. One local lady says: “Smoking is becoming embarrassing. Every time I light up in the Armidale Mall, I feel like people are judging me. I feel like a social outcast for smoking these days”. And another local says: “I walk up a flight of stairs, and I am starting to find it difficult. I am becoming breathless”.

These are only 2 of many reasons to quit smoking. Have you thought about the health aspect and how tobacco is making you sick? Don’t wait until it’s too late!

There is no better time than NOW to seek help.

If you would like to QUIT, then call in to Priceline, Amcal or Terry White Pharmacies in Armidale. Our pharmacists really do care, and they are more than happy to assist you in quitting. They will take the time to arrange support to help you stay on track.

new england focus 45

BONUS BlackBerry PlayBook.

BlackBerry® Torch™ 9860 $0 per month after handset credit† Connect the BlackBerry Torch 9860 on the

$

49 OPTUS CAP PLAN1

Min. total cost $1,176 over 24 months.

Take home more than you expected.

Visit Optus ‘yes’ Shop Armidale Shop 3, 206 Beardy Street or call 6771 4067.

Terms & Conditions: 1. Cancellation fees apply. While stocks last, no rain checks. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer. †Handset Credit: approved customers who connect to the $49 Optus Cap Plan with a monthly handset repayment will receive a $10 Handset Credit each month for the contracted period of their chosen plan to put towards reducing the monthly repayment costs of the handset. If you cancel the plan or the handset repayments during the contracted period, you will no longer be entitled to the Handset Credit and you must pay the remaining handset repayments in addition to any Termination Fees. ^Bonus: If you cancel under the Coverage Satisfaction Guarantee (CSG) you must return all equipment including the mobile phone and the BlackBerry PlayBook in full working order with original packaging (including your Optus SIM Card) within 14 days of notification to avoid equipment replacement charges. New customers only eligible to take advantage of the CSG once during the promotion period. Bonus offer ends 31/01/12. 2. Smart Safe: Mobile backup functionality not available for all Optus Smartphones. Data will count towards your monthly data allocation where your installation and/or use is through the Optus Fixed Broadband (ADSL or Cable) Network. ~Qantas Frequent Flyer: You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and an Optus Rewards member and link your memberships to earn points. Points are only earned once payment is made for eligible Optus services through a validated Optus account which has been added to your Optus OPTA1505 12/11 Rewards membership. For full terms and conditions visit optus.com.au/points. SingTel Optus Pty Ltd ABN 90 052 833 208.

new england focus 47

focusinterview.

City to Soil.

City to Soil is a new organics waste collection service for the Armidale residents who currently have a 240 litre (L) green waste bin.

Armidale Dumaresq Council (ADC) is currently distributing seven litre kitchen tidy bins, a year’s supply of compostable bags, and an instruction leaflet for households to help separate food waste. The food and garden waste will be composted at the Armidale Waste Management Facility and the compost will be available for local growers and gardeners on a cost recovery basis.

The organic waste that can be included in the City to Soil collection includes raw and cooked food scraps, tea bags, coffee grounds, and greasy paper towels. In addition, soiled or greasy paper, pizza boxes and wet paper/ cardboard can now be included in the 240L green bins along with garden waste. The green 240L wheelie bin is now referred to as the City to Soil bin.

The seven litre kitchen tidy bins and

The seven litre and kitchen tidy binsgs are ba le compostab ed specially designents nt co e to allow th a to breathe and ase ar rs ou od result, controlled.

compostable bags are specially designed to allow the contents to breathe and as a result odours are controlled.

When the kitchen tidy bin is full, the compostable bags and their contents can be placed in the City to Soil bin.

City to Soil has been rolled out in Goulburn, Harden and Condobolin, with similar systems in over 2000 communities around the world that are successfully diverting organic waste away from landfill.

City to Soil enables council and the community to work together to: Help improve agricultural soils, • Reduce waste to landfill, • Support local growers, • Support local food production, • Help the environment, • Reduce waste costs.

Your Local Waste Services Provider Commercial and Industrial Waste Front Lift services for:> General Waste > Paper and Cardboard Recycling > Bin Sizes 1.5m and 3m > Very competitive pricing on all services > We’ll partner with you to minimise your total waste and maximise your recycling > We’ll provide you with real savings for both your organisation and the environment.

Find out more about what we can do for you by calling

6765 3177

48 new england focus.

The compost that will be produced through City to Soil will be an excellent soil conditioner for local growers and Armidale’s avid gardeners.

ADC will donate the first batch of compost to the newly developed ‘Down to Earth’ community garden to enhance food production and reinforce that residents can really become part of the solution. Any questions or comments regarding the City to Soil collection are welcome. Please telephone our City to Soil team leader Mark Byrne on (02) 6770 3893.

more info.

Any questions or comments regarding the City to Soil collection are welcome. Please telephone our City to Soil team leader Mark Byrne on (02) 6770 3893.

New England Outdoors

focusfeature.

New England

Outdoors.

Armidale Dumaresq SES. The State Emergency Service (SES) is responsible for responding to storms in NSW. ES volunteers help protect people and properties from storms by educating them about how to protect their family and property, by making temporary repairs to roofs and buildings to protect them from further damage by hail, heavy rain or strong wind, by cutting down threatening trees or branches during a storm, by clearing debris or fallen trees to give access to roads and property, and where necessary, rescuing people trapped or injured by storm activity.

HERE ARE A FEW WAYS THAT YOU CAN BE PREPARED FOR STORMS. Firstly, secure outdoor items that can blow around in strong wind. Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains regularly, to prevent blockages. Blocked gutters are a common cause of water running into houses, as they back up into the roof space and then the water comes in through ceilings and walls, causing minor to extensive damage.

Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property. Fix any damage to your roof, including replacing broken or missing tiles, and ensure all metal sheeting is adequately secured.

Make a plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency; this is especially important if you have young children. Prepare an Emergency Kit with essential items in case you lose power or need to leave home in an emergency. Items could include: a portable radio with spare batteries to listen for weather and other media information updates and advice, a torch with spare batteries, a First Aid Kit (with supplies necessary for your household), candles and waterproof matches, any important papers including emergency contact number and your insurance details (check that your policy is current and adequate), a mobile phone with SES 132 500 saved into contacts and a waterproof bag for protecting valuables. A supply of food and fresh water is

S

also advisable if you are required to evacuate your home.

During a storm, there are simple things you can do to help protect your family. Ensure your family stays indoors and remain clear of windows. If there is lightning, turn off and disconnect appliances, as this will minimise risk of surge damage. Always stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings. Never enter or travel through floodwater, including flash floodwater. This includes walking, driving, riding and playing.

Entering floodwater is the leading cause of death during floods. Flood waters often contain dangerous debris, snakes and other wildlife fleeing, as well as unknown products from overflowing storm vel Never enter or traer, drains and water treatments. If outdoors, seek at dw oo fl h ug ro th secure shelter away from drains, causeways, including flash es includ streams, creeks, trees and power lines. If floodwater. This g, riding in iv dr , ng ki driving, put your hazard lights on and pull wal ring could be required. It is the responsibility of and playing. Ente over to the side of the road, keeping clear of ading le e th floodwater is the landowner to remove any of the debris g rin du drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and cause of death cleared from their property. floods. power lines.

Armidale Dumaresq SES also has skilled memAfter the storm has passed, continue to bers trained in all areas of rescue, including: Road monitor your local radio station for information, Crash Rescue, Vertical Rescue, Flood and Swift Water updates and advice; when safe to do so, check your Rescue, General Land Rescue and Land search, Operations house or property for damage. Check to see if your neighbours Management and much more. are OK or need help. Do not go sightseeing or playing in flood SES – ‘The worst in nature, the best in us’. waters, as this may hinder recovery efforts and put yourself and others at risk.

All storm work carried out by the SES is free and completed by our volunteer members. While our SES volunteers can clear access to and carry out temporary repairs to damaged property, it is important to note that property owners may need to arrange professional tradespeople to carry out any permanent repairs that

more info.

If you are interested in joining the SES or would like some more information, you can contact our Duty Officer on 0428 711 264.

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49

focusfeature. New England Outdoors

New England

Outdoors.

Microbes for Turf and Garden.

A natural way to improve the health and appearance of your lawn and garden. etrik have been developing microbiology products for amenities and agriculture for over 40 years. They have 30 products, including live soil living microbes that do a number of essential roles. The product Purkiss Rural recommends for turf, Petrik Evergreen, contains a few hundred species of live microbes, each with different jobs to do. After application, some of these species will locate themselves around the rhizosphere of plant roots, the area a few millimetres between the soil and the root, interfacing with the plant, assisting in nutrient uptake and fighting disease.

This greatly increases the efficiency of applied fertilisers and helps plants find essential trace elements. Other microbes in the formulation break down the thatch level on top of the soil that contains lawn clippings and leaves, converting them into humus. This enables mulch mowing of turf. There are even microbes in Petrik’s

P

50 new england focus.

disease These kind of Evergreen that protect plants from disease. microbes are naturally present in the soil, but these ones are bred and selected over a number of processes taking 5 years, that make them highly efficient and hardier.

These microbes will increase soil health, increase the lifespan of turf, reduce unsightly disease and improve fertiliser efficiency. Other Petrik microbial products speed recovery from newly rolled out turf and potted plant transplanting.

These products were first used by biological farmers, though they are hardy enough to be integrated in conventionally fertilised lawns and gardening.

Use them to make your fertiliser go further and to make your home garden healthier.

Above: A photo of Spyder Plus Tall Fescue Turf taken in late November 2011. Note how disease free the leaf of the grass is after an application of Petrik Evergreen microbes in September.

New England Outdoors

focusfeature.

New England

Outdoors.

Snake Repeller.

This unique repeller has been developed to scare away all kinds of snakes; it emits a pulsing vibration, which the snake picks up through sensors throughout its body.

The snake perceives a danger zone, causing them to evacuate the area; most snakes will retreat almost immediately.

One unit will protect a circle with a radius of 15 metres. They are solar powered and self contained and work 24 hours a day.

The repellers

The repellers are very good If you have dogs, place the are very good ates ak sn at removing snakes from g in units around the outside to remov from behind or behind or under obstacles keep snakes from entering ch su s under obstacle such as rock walls, from m your dogs’ area. There have fro , ls al w as rock under sheds and garages. been so many incidents last under sheds and garages..

Small shed foundations, year with snakes biting dogs fences, footpaths and drivewithin their runs, which have ways will not stop the effectiveunfortunately resulted in the loss of ness of the unit, and they operate very many loved and valuable dogs. well in rocky ground.

For more information, phone Robert on This season has been another record break(07) 5483 4861. ing year for the numbers of snakes sighted Email: oakcloud @yahoo.com – many in areas where they are not normally Web: www.oakent.com.au seen. All indications are they are breeding in Do not forget farm sheds with machinery and record numbers. feed, chook sheds and vegetable patches.

Cedar Nursery + Design.

January ... a time after Christmas to sit and relax after all of the work we have done to have our house and garden just perfect for all of our visitors. Except, the kids are on holidays, destroying your tranquillity, they have finished playing with their Christmas presents, begging for something to do. How about giving them a section of the garden that they can unleash their creative side on? At Cedar Nursery + Design, we have the cheapest potted colour in town, as well as an extensive range of seedlings and tubes.

January is a good time to contemplate future projects for the spring. At Cedar Nursery + Design, we can contract grow anything to suit your requirements. Plants that are propagated here and grown here will have a greater chance of survival, as well as being very economical.

Some January tasks that may be undertaken

include seed collection and taking cuttings, as well as tip pruning all of the early spring flowering plants, such as roses, catmint and campanulas, to encourage them to flower again in the autumn.

Summer pruning of your fruit trees is always beneficial. By shortening the growth of branches at this time of year, the sun will be able to penetrate the tree to help ripen fruit such as apples, pears and plums. Generally, summer pruning controls the framework branches; any new vigorous overcrowding branches can be removed from the centre.

Once a system of summer pruning is established, very little winter pruning is required.

Watch for lots of pests and diseases that love this time of year, with all the rain, warmth (hopefully) and fresh growth on all plants.

Come into Cedar Nursery + Design for some solutions to this ever occurring problem.

new england focus 51

focusabode.

NEW ENGLAND

property guide

52 new england focus.

focusabode.

hotm

here did you learn your building trade?

I commenced my carpenter apprenticeship in 2006 with Rossbuild Homes & Construction and completed my building course in 2009. I gained my experience through building new homes and renovations which have assisted with completing my trade, Certificate III at Tafe in Armidale.

Describe the interior of your home for sale?

It is a quality 330 sqm modern family residence oozing with contemporary luxury and sophistication. Designed for the growing family, this spacious home has endless quality features throughout, including 4 large bedrooms with full size built-ins, a main bedroom featuring double shower ensuite & large walk-in wardrobe.

A contemporary freestanding bathtub, double hand

W

basins & separate toilet in the main bathroom are highlights of the home.

The flooring is very stylish, with modern floor tiles & carpet throughout.

The luxurious gallery kitchen is every cook’s dream come true, with stainless steel appliances including double dishwasher, soft close drawers and doors, glass splash back, top of the line Ilve 900 mm freestanding gas cook top and electric oven, stone benches with ample space & hidden walk-in pantry.

The large open plan living and dining area opens outside to a private undercover alfresco area, capturing the morning sun.

The home also has a large versatile formal lounge room, providing a private atmosphere. The home will be cosy 24/7, with ducted heating/air-conditioning, and the double garage has remote control and internal access.

This magnificently designed home has been built with exceptional attention to detail and offers blue ribbon quality in a sought after North Estate.

One walk through, and you won’t want to leave.

Mitchell Cooper has a brand new home for sale at 4 Mason Crescent, Netherton Park Estate, Armidale.

Describe the exterior?

Modern colour scheme with painted brick work and Colorbond roof with timber panel look electric garage door.

Classic white rose and lavender low maintenance mature gardens and yard, rear storage/workshop, manicured turf lawns with stencilled driveway and paths.

What type of occupants would suit this home?

Designed for the growing family or executive couple, with little maintenance time required.

Describe the location?

Prestigious sought after Northern Estate, on the outskirts of town above the smog zone of Armidale. Located in a safe and quiet cul-de-sac with friendly neighbours.

What are the best features of the home?

Large spacious open plan living with quality features and fixtures throughout the home.

more info.

This property is listed with Luke Fahy at Professionals Armidale. He can be contacted on 6772 4549.

new england focus 53

focusinterview.

ARCHITECTS

•

St Mary’s Primary School Armidale showcases DRA Architects’ design abilities in the sensitive heritage context of the St Mary’s Cathedral Precinct. ncorporating new buildings with six classrooms linked by a continuous covered walkway and extensive refurbishment to the St Anne’s Hall, the project employs innovative technology and building envelope design, while maintaining a sympathetic eye on the beautiful and locally significant historic surrounds.

The St Anne’s Hall refurbishment returns the school’s oldest building to its former glory, with the removal of a deteriorated unoriginal ceiling through the main space, exposing expansive

I

54 new england focus.

timber trusses, resulting in a space of architectural splendour. Renewed polished timber flooring and sensitively installed acoustic wall panelling have transformed the old gym into what is already proving to be a much sought after activity and function space, both within the school and across the wider school community.

A new commercial quality kitchen and canteen, toddler’s playgroup, toilet and change facilities and large storage areas are accommodated in the old hall’s original teaching spaces and contribute to

furthe h r rrestoration esto est oration oratio n of of the the bui buildi lding, ng, wh while ile pr p oviding g further building, providing much needed functionality to the school. The new works have been cleverly orchestrated to solve the spatial needs of the school – and at the same time meticulously retaining the heritage of the building.

The new classroom cluster provides the latest in teaching facilities, with six new classrooms linked both internally and externally, allowing for interconnectivity of class groups and allowing team teaching methods to be employed.

Brightly coloured spaces with high-end teaching technology and excellent levels of controlled natural daylight ensure that St Mary’s Armidale

students and teachers enjoy a stimulating and comfortable learning environment.

Facing the established playground area to the north, the new classroom cluster encloses the stand of huge shade trees and connects one end of the school complex to the other, under complete cover. At the same time, the classrooms face across to the shaded playground area, with an entire facade of glazing creating a beautiful and serene outlook, completing the ‘soft’ enclosure of the school grounds within the wider complex and improving security and surveillance of the school grounds.

With a highly sensitive built context and numerous difficult site constraints and pressures, DRA Architects, along with the heritage consultant, local authorities, the school and National Buildplan Group, showed enormous design initiative and resilience to pull this project together. The new buildings just seem to fit.

“The classrooms appear to have been there forever,” one observer was heard to say. “It’s not until you look inside that you realise they are brand new”.

DRA Architects are enormously proud to have been associated with yet another school project completed for the Catholic Schools Office Armidale and have received an encouraging response from the local region, with requests for design service on the back of their growing New England region design portfolio. DRA Architects have offices located in Coffs Harbour, Grafton and Tamworth and invite enquiries from potential clients for building projects across NSW.

Make 2012 YOUR Year!

Study & Recognition for YOU or your STAFF at Armidale TAFE

Skills Recognition

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complete your studies faster

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new england focus

55

MY SCHOOL MY DREAMS MY FUTURE NEGS is offering SCHOLARSHIPS in ACADEMIC, EQUESTRIAN AND MUSIC for those entering Years 6 to 11 in 2013.

Academic examination: Saturday 3rd March 2012

Applications close: T Thursday hu 20th hF February 2012

Academic application forms, are available on-line. n lin i

t i ir p s h t i w g in n r lea Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 T 02 6774 8700 E enrolments@negs.nsw.edu.au www.negs.nsw.edu.au