Focus 61 - Manning-Great Lakes by Focus

Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES

Ben Quilty

March 2012 // issue 61

YOUR PERFECT

DAY

WEDDINGS 2012

We catch up with Assistance Dogs Australia’s CEO about the organisation’s urgent appeal to train its new puppies ...

ROSS NOBLE The English standup comedian saunters into the Manning-Great Lakes to entertain the audience with his revered brilliance and wit ...

I N S I D E 61

ASSISTANCE DOGS

editor's note.

editor.

from the

Karen Farrell

This month we welcome the 2011 Archibald to our region. 011 was a big year for artist Ben Quilty ... in November 2011, Ben went to Afghanistan on behalf of the Australian War Memorial. During his time there, he made sketches and drawings, which he subsequently turned into paintings from his studio in Australia. He was also the recipient of the 2011 Archibald Prize for his illuminating painting of the late Margaret Olley. In the advent of the 2011 Archibald visiting the Manning Regional Gallery this month, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ben about his experience in Afghanistan, his friendships with Margaret Olley and Germaine Greer and his paintings of young booze-addled Aussie blokes self destructing ... Personally, I cannot wait to make my way around the Archibald and am thrilled that we have access to such high-calire art exhibitions by major arts organisations in our region.

THIS MONTH It’s Rugby season, and we hear from long time Manning-Great Lakes Rugby rivals, the Forster Tuncurry Dolphins and

contacts. Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 4/142 Victoria Street, Taree PHONE: 02 6552 7337 FAX: 02 6552 7332 EMAIL: mglinfo@focusmag.com.au WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au

the Old Bar Clams about how they see this year’s season playing out ... On things sport, I caught up with Paul Cheers from First Round Boxing for some tips on staying upright in the ring. According to Kelly Beauchamp, it’s high time for productivity in the garden – she gives us advice about harvesting and planting in autumn, a time she refers to as the ‘gentle season’. We also bring you our bonanza weddings feature – a veritable bible on local products and services at the ready when planning for a wedding. ON THE COVER We thank expert wedding photographer Craig Mason for supplying our beautiful cover image – a wedding photo Craig took of Amanda and Josh Williams. Later in this issue we hear from Craig about some of the tricks of the trade for taking great wedding photos; it’s not as easy as he makes it look.

IPAD APP Another exciting addition we’ve made to our portfolio is our brand spanking new iPad app, featuring all the latest editions of FOCUS. Never miss an issue, no matter where you are in the world. To download the new iPad app, visit www.focusmag.com.au/ipad And if you haven’t already (over 1,000 have), don’t forget to download our eat dining guide iPhone application, featuring a great selection of local restaurants to tempt your tastebuds. Can’t decide where to eat? Let the app decide for you. Visit www.focusmag.com.au/eat LAST WORDS “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” Thomas Merton.

EDITOR’S PHOTO This month’s photo is taken by Wayne Kirk at Crowdy Bay.

Karen Farrell – Editor karen@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Karen Farrell

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER:

karen@focusmag.com.au

Louise Beaumont

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul

louise@focusmag.com.au

dylan@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont

chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

jay@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sally Foot

GRAPHIC / WEB DESIGNER:

sally@focusmag.com.au

Michael Marchment

COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins

michael@focusmag.com.au

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Thanks to Brett Adams and

Craig Mason.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

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

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

Essential Energy

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

manning-great lakes focus 3

focusinterview.

FarmDay - lifeswap 2012 is the Australian Year of the Farmer - a Year designed to acknowledge and celebrate the farmers’ contributions to feeding and clothing the nation …

he contribution farmers make to them. I am Canadian by birth, a pharmacist the Australian economy and comby trade and was a tried and true city girl until munity is vital. Every person who moving to a wool and lamb property in western eats food, wears natural fibre or Victoria to be with my husband. After making lives in a timber home is connected that move, I discovered a real disconnect between to farming. Our modern lives often make it difpeople in urban areas and our farmers. ficult to connect with a farmer and understand The lack of connection often means there how they work to provide the necessities we is lack of understanding. FarmDay is all about use every day. FarmDay is a unique opportunity helping families reconnect across this rural urban for city families to meet and spend time with a divide and, in particular, helping city families unfarming family in the spirit of fun, friendship and derstand the day-to-day life of a farming family. understanding. How does FarmDay work? Now in its seventh year, FarmDay is again Participating in FarmDay is simple – you can asking farmers to open their gates and share register online on www.farmday.com.au and fill their day with a city family. Deb Bain, Founder of in the form – it usually takes about five minutes. FarmDay, tells us what’s involved. Once you have registered, one of our lovely 2012 is the Australian Year of the FarmDay staff will call to have a chat. If you Farmer. How significant is this are a city family, you will be asked national nod to the Aussie about what you want to see and farmer? how far you are willing to travel The look on a ey hold I sit on the Board of Aus(this may be the opportunity child’s face as th fresh their first reallye look tralian Year of the Farmer, for that outback experience warm egg, or th ey get and we are working hard you have always wanted!) If th as of surprise ilk m re to ensure that this year you are a farming family, we he w of e st a ta arning will highlight all the great will talk to you about your comes from, or le help first hand as theyr their things rural Australia has farm and what you’re keen fo re ca er the farm on offer – especially the to share with a visiting family. … ck to es land and liv farmers! Matching is done by each of the We are also working to enstaff members, and we’re pretty courage young people to consider good at matching families who get the vast array of career opportunities that along well. exist in the agricultural sphere. Farmers obviously All families are given information to help them have always been a big part of our lives, but it prepare for their FarmDay visit. On the weekend seems to be even more so now, with a much of May 26 - 27, we will have about 400 city famigreater focus on our burgeoning population, the lies travelling to visit their host families. quality of produce and the story behind our food. More than 1,000 families have participated The opportunity for a broader opportunity to get in FarmDay since 2007, with stories of marto know the farmers behind our great Australian riages, tree changes and friendships being produce is going to be very valuable for us all. created along the way. Tell us about some of How did FarmDay come to fruition, and these experiences? whose idea was it? When I first started FarmDay in 2006, it was goMany of the world’s best ideas are hatched ing to be a one-off, but as the wonderful stories, around kitchen tables, and FarmDay is one of photos and children’s drawings started pouring

manning-great lakes focus.

into the office, I realised this unique event had a far-reaching impact on the people who participated. We have certainly had families who have made the final decision to move to the country as a result of their FarmDay experience and a marriage proposal on the drive home from FarmDay. So many long standing friendships – children who have FarmDay ‘grandparents’, farm families travelling to the city to go to the football with their city family, or a farm family going down to spend their weekend at the Royal Easter Show with their city family. These outcomes are, of course, heart warming, and we are thrilled to be partly responsible for them having happened. Although, for us it is the untold stories that are probably more valuable – the look on a child’s face as they hold their first really fresh warm egg, or the look of surprise as they get a taste of where milk comes from, or learning first hand as they help the farmer care for their land and livestock … You’re currently recruiting farming and rural families to participate in this year’s FarmDay, which is taking place on 26 - 27 May. What is required of rural and urban participants, and are there any prerequisites for applying? We are looking for primary producers who are keen to spend a day sharing their lives and work with a city family – farmers who are passionate and knowledgeable about their work and who uphold a high standard of farming practice. We look for city people who have a genuine interest in how food and fibre is produced. Travelling is a big part of the FarmDay experience, so this unique opportunity is best advantaged by those who are willing to spend a weekend away enjoying not only their day on the farm, but also the region they are visiting. We find that families with school aged children often get the greatest value out of their participation in FarmDay. It is free to take part in FarmDay, as we are generously sponsored by the Cattle Producers of Australia. Is your message about what’s involved in

putting food on plates and clothes on backs making its way to school aged children? FarmDay is actually about reconnecting rural and urban Australia but of course, understanding how farmers produce our food and fibre is a large part of that connection. When children make discoveries in a hands-on way, in a new and exciting environment, the memory and experience stays with them forever. Which areas does FarmDay take place in? Farmers all across Australia offer to host city families for FarmDay. The reality that most farms are more than three hours from capital cities becomes apparent when you participate in FarmDay. If people live in a regional town or city, chances are there will be a farm closer to them. It is important to remember, however, that FarmDay is not a holiday in itself, but being hosted by an outback FarmDay Family for a day or two can offer a fantastic focal point to a holiday. How can people get involved with FarmDay? Both farmers and city visitors can register their interest in FarmDay through our website www. farmday.com.au. The website also answers many commonly asked questions. If anyone’s unable to register online, they can call us on 1300 36 70 36. Interview by Karen Farrell.

inside this

Issue 61 - March 2012

8. Ben Quilty

Karen Farrell spoke to Ben about his experience in Afghanistan and his 2011 Archibald win for his painting of Margaret Olley…

Ross Noble

18.

The English standup comedian saunters into the Manning-Great Lakes to entertain the audience with his revered brilliance and wit ...

Henri Szeps

29.

You may recognise him as the dentist from the classic ABC television series Mother and Son, but Henri Szeps has many other strings to his bow, being no stranger to both television and theatre. But where Henri’s talent truly shines is in is one-man shows – the latest of which, Wish I’d Said That, he’ll be presenting at the Manning Entertainment Centre later this month …

usual suspects.

the

10. what’s on for March 20. eat featuring local restaurants

56. business voice Manning Valley

24. social Scene with Donna Carrier 50. star guide with Terri

56. tech talk with Cameron Illingworth

Business Chamber

55. tourism update with Richard Old

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

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

manning-great lakes focus 5

focusinterview.

A S S I S TA N C E

Assistance Dogs provide independence and freedom dom plus great companionship for people with physicall disabiliites who are not able to do everyday activities such as open and close doors, pick up dropped items and press the buttons at traffic lights.

ssistance Dogs organisation currently has 50 highly intelligent puppies at-the-ready waiting to be trained as Assistance Dogs for people who have a physical disability. Top Dog and CEO of Assistance Dogs Australia, Richard Lord, talks about the organisation’s urgent appeal to train its new puppies ... Assistance Dogs Australia trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to help people with physical disabilities. Tell us about your work? Assistance Dogs Australia is a tiny but national charity that trains Labradors and Golden Retrievers to help people with physical disabilities. We all know how important our four legged friends can be, but just imagine if you needed them to help you with everyday tasks as well. Assistance Dogs do exactly that, acting as the hands and arms of people in need and opening the door to a life of freedom and independence. Our fantastic Assistance Dogs are trained to help their team mates in all sorts of ways – by picking up dropped items, pressing the button at the traffic lights, alert barking or getting the phone if their team mate is in trouble, and even unloading the washing machine! They are a constant companion providing love and companionship and smiles with just a wag of their tails. Assistance Dogs Australia currently operates without ongoing government funding and relies heavily on volunteers and sponsorship. Each dog is an investment of over $26,000, and it takes 2 years to train each puppy; however, dogs are placed with their recipients free of charge. Recipients include people who were born with developmental disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy or Spina Bifida, people who acquire debilitating illnesses later in life, like Multiple Sclerosis and those who have been injured in tragic accidents and will never walk again. How did you become involved with the organisation? About nine years ago, I saw a job ad in my local paper advertising the position at Assistance Dogs Australia. I had never heard of Assistance Dogs, but due to my special education and charity background, I jumped at the opportunity. I met the founders and saw what they had achieved with 6 manning-great lakes focus.

Facility Dog and a Companion Dog? the 3 staff. The organisation had a great feel, and I Service Dogs – these dogs have full public could see a blue sky opportunity to help many more access rights. These dogs increase independence people with disabilities around the country. by performing practical tasks for people with Why are the Labrador and Golden Retriever physical disabilities, while also providing love and breeds chosen to specifically do this sort of companionship. They assist their recipients by work? opening and closing doors, pressing the button Assistance Dogs Australia trains Labradors and at pedestrian crossings, retrieving all manner of Golden Retrievers because of three reasons: dropped items, paying the cashier at the shops and They are the number one big pet dogs in the even retrieving bottles of water from the fridge. country, so most people have experienced them. Companion Dogs are trained in a variety of The general public have a lot of confidence with surroundings and circumstances to enhance the Labs and Goldies, and accept them into the quality of life for people with physical disabilities by community. This makes it easier for the team, the providing interactive tasks and love. For example, person and their assistance dog, to access public they can increase motor skills for young children places with their service dog. to help overcome their disability. These dogs are They’re easy to train, because they love food! primarily for children, those who need additional Assistance Dogs Australia only uses positive care and people who only need a helping paw reinforcement methods, and much of that includes when around the house, as they do not have full giving food rewards. Also, these dogs are gentle public access rights. natured and love being with people. Facility Dogs are placed in residential How does a person with a physical or day-program facilities to benefit disability qualify and apply for the residents through enhancing a Service Dog? Assistance Dogst emotional and physical wellThe first step is to fill in ea Australia takes gr g being. These dogs are trained an application form on our in ch at care in m of to support residents in the website, which should the personality the the applicant to eir facility. They are not trained be accompanied with a personality of the to support the residents for recommendation from nc future Assista re su en n ca e community access; therefore, a medical professional w so Dog, a perfect working are not trained to travel on and photographic or video relationship. public transport or support the evidence of a suitable home recipients in public settings. environment for a dog. After the Assistance Dogs and Guide Dogs application is processed, the person do very important but distinct work. will be interviewed over the phone by Tell us about this? Assistance Dogs Australia staff and then receive an Assistance Dogs Australia trains dogs to be the in person interview. hands and arms of people with physical disabilities, Once they are accepted, they are placed on a rather than the eyes. Assistance Dogs do physical waiting list. Assistance Dogs Australia takes great tasks for their team mates, opening and closing care in matching the personality of the applicant to doors, helping them to get dressed and even the personality of their future Assistance Dog. getting bottles of water from the fridge. When the recipient receives their Service Dog, For Manning-Great Lakes residents, tell us they need to pass a public access test together. what is involved in raising and training a dog? They do this test yearly with Assistance Dogs Assistance Dogs is sniffing out volunteer puppy Australia, to ensure they can maintain their public raisers to take care of our super puppies for the first access rights as a team. fourteen months of their training and socialisation. Applicants for service dogs need to be over For the first six months, pups and raisers attend eighteen; however, companion dogs can be placed Kindergarten training classes once a week with with children as well. an Assistance Dogs Australia Instructor and then What’s the difference between a Service Dog,

once every two months for the remainder of the 18 months. We encourage puppy raisers to take the pups everywhere, so that the pups are socialised in a range of community settings. They can go to shopping centres, the supermarket, on public transport, to the cinema – everywhere! If puppy raisers go on holidays etc. we also have puppy sitters to look after the dogs while they are away. If you can’t take on the full-time commitment but would like to get involved, you can volunteer as a puppy sitter taking care of super pups when their raisers go on holidays. Puppy raisers and sitters do not have to cover any costs related to raising a dog. Assistance Dogs Australia supplies food, a crate which acts as a bed and a training unit, tick and flea treatment and all medical costs, such as vaccination, de-sexing etc. Puppies need to spend most of their time with raisers and sleep inside. They cannot be left for more than three hours at a time. To get involved or find out more about training programs: You can contact Assistance Dogs Australia by emailing info@assistancedogs.org.au or by calling 1800 688 364. You can visit our website at www.assistancedogs.org.au Thanks Richard. Story by Karen Farrell.

Modern. Sport. Luxury. Three words that perfectly describe the all new BMW 3 Series Sedan. You will love the way you move in this exhilarating Ultimate Driving Machine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo performance, near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution and the latest BMW ConnectedDrive innovations including optional full colour Head-Up display. You will love the way it makes roads come to life. You will love the way we only make one thing, the Ultimate Driving Machine. The all new BMW 3 Series Sedan, visit McGuigan BMW to arrange a test-drive.

4(%Ă&#x17E;!,,Ă&#x17E;.%7Ă&#x17E;"-7Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x17E;3%2)%3Ă&#x17E;3%$!. 4(%Ă&#x17E;5,4)-!4%Ă&#x17E;$2)6).'Ă&#x17E;-!#().%

-C'UIGANĂ&#x17E;"-7 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444. Tel: 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571

F E AT U R E - B E N Q U I LT Y

hat was it like being in Afghanistan? It was kind of terrifying to be honest ... being transported from one place to another, in and out of different zones. The actual transport is really quite dangerous, so there were panicked moments ... for example, the shuttle landing on a C130 (which is a Hercules). They do this thing called a shuttle landing into Tarin Kowt. You could take it as an adrenaline rush, but when you know the reason they’re taking an insanely steep decline is because they’re worried about being shot at by mortars and rockets and AK27 riffles – there’s a weird sort of adrenaline, but absolute fear. I just thought so many times, “What am I doing here?” I think by our very nature we are anti-war; from the very beginning I was against the war, but I wanted to go there to witness what these young men had gotten themselves into. I read that prior to going to Afghanistan you had a stereotype of what the Australian soldier is like and that the visit there changed this stereotype … Definitely. I grew up in the north western suburbs of Sydney, out towards Richmond, and there’s a big airbase there. I know from when I grew up and the soldiers are drunken; they’re very physically strong, and there’s a level of inherent violence about that sort of young man. Then you go to Afghanistan and see them, and they’re eight months without alcohol and physically extremely fit, going into a very extreme sort of survival mode. I’m not normally proud of my Australianness, as I have lots of questions about our own identity – but I have to say those young people made me feel very proud to be Australian. They carried themselves very well and had a sense of looking after me, and it was quite moving really, in a way ... particularly for men who are half my age.

PYKE. In November 2011, artist Ben Quilty went to Afghanistan on behalf of the Australian War Memorial. During this time there he made sketches and drawings, which he subsequently turned into paintings from his studio in Robertson. Karen Farrell spoke to Ben about his experience in Afghanistan and his 2011 Archibald win for his painting of Margaret Olley and friends in high places …

8 manning-great lakes focus.

I remember reading that you thought you might even be an imposition, but obviously they were really looking after you and saw you as an Aussie, and you’re in the field with them ... Yeah, that’s right – exactly. As a young man, I worked in a lot of trades and was often a labourer, and there are a lot of initiation processes that young men are put through when you work in the building industry. They are often quite gruelling and ugly, and I didn’t like it. I kind of expected that sort of behaviour from them, but it was the complete opposite … there was that real sense of nurturing and care, and it was completely different to what I had expected … I thought I’d really need my wits about me just to look after myself among those ranks of people, but it was completely different to that. I read that some Australian soldiers were lost while you were there – is that right? Yeah, the three Australian soldiers were killed by the ANA soldier, who opened up with a machine gun at the Marching Out parade of the ANA troops.

focusinterview.

Right at the end, when I made “the last drawing of her in her home, it was astounding to see that such a frail little human could make so many new works.

”

I suppose it was hard for you to leave the boys and girls in the field when you got back on the plane to come back to ‘normality’? It was a very strange feeling. You don’t know what to say, especially to people you’ve become friends with except, “Be safe, and look after yourself”. I know my mum always said look after yourself as her way of saying goodbye, but it has so much meaning when you leave very young people in that sort of situation. It definitely made me think we need to spend more time as a public paying attention to the politics of why we’re sending young people into that sort of extreme situation. Moving to the 2011 Archibald and your winning painting of the gorgeous Margaret Olley. I read that your inspiration for using such a colourful palette was in part due to visiting her home and quasi studio and seeing the beautiful brightness and use of colour. I understand this provided inspiration for you and how you progressed the work? Quite often I find I almost use too much colour, and I actually consciously try and pull back the palette. But with Margaret, she was such a beautiful colourist and so interested in what colour did and about the relationship between colour and emotion ... Her house is painted this incredible colour – all red and green, with flowers everywhere; so in a way, I was sort of free to use the palette in a way I naturally would. There’s lots of colour, but the face is very bare. There’s nothing on the surface of the primed linen, as though she was disappearing, because at that point in her life she was at the end of it and she was quite open about the fact that she was facing her own death. I talked to her about how she was dealing with those sorts of things – how she felt about being at the end of her life. I’m looking at a photo of the painting, and I get a sense of conformability – would that be fair to say? Margaret suffered very publicly from chronic depression, and she was a great supporter of some charities that are involved with work about depression. The thing that is very empowering for me is that for an old person who has suffered from depression, you would assume she’d be suffering from depression facing her own death; but there was a real sense of life in the last works she made. It

Archibald

wasn’t a source of deep depression for her, which was quite incredible to see. Right at the end, when I made the last drawing of her in her home, it was astounding to see that such a frail little human could make so many new works. I said to her, “What’s going on? Where’s all this coming from?” She said to me, “I’m like an old tree that’s dying, sending forward flowers as quickly as it can.” The instant analogy is so powerful and involved the thing she loved so much – the flowers – it was a pretty amazing thing. I went home after that and made the painting. It’s about her facing her death – she’s disappearing physically, but there’s still so much life in those eyes. With your Archibald win, you had to defend the use of a photographic reference – how supportive was Margaret with this? Margaret said to me, “Tell him to piss off!” Yeah, she was there; she sat for me. It’s funny, when all that happened and there was that article, I told Margaret and she said, “Ben, the press is much friendlier than they were with Bill Dobell”, who won the Archibald with a painting of her. They were very cruel of Margaret as a woman when Bill Dobell won that prize; they were ruthless and ugly, and they were bigots back then. I take criticism like that back to the studio, and I try and work through those problems. They’re very unpleasant people who make those criticisms – you’ve gotta take it not only with a grain of that made me who I am, although a lot of salt; you’ve got to take it on and it I felt was fairly unnecessary. When I look work it through and work out if Olley. t re ga ar M at it now, having a little boy myself, I don’t the criticism is aimed in the right want him to have to go through that – partly direction or not. for the selfi sh reason that I don’t want my son, The Archibald in generally criticised his life, being risked for such inane reasons, but also for being popularist and as a portrait because I just think there are better ways to do it. prize, it’s really the subject of a lot of conjecture Germaine Greer is a big advocate of your work and from the media and the public. There always seems to what you’re expressing. Are you still in touch with her? be a debacle or some controversy ... I’ve actually just made a big work for her. I promised that Yeah, they look for it. They look for something after the Archibald I’d make something for the rainforest she controversial – and good luck to them. If there are a bunch has. She’s a legend. I’ve never genuinely walked away from a of words about the arts and that brings attention to the arts, meeting with someone and felt so uplifted and inspired and I think it’s a good thing. depressed all at once. She’s an amazing human. There’s not Your paintings capture young booze-addled Aussie one subject I could talk to her about where she didn’t make blokes self destructing. I know you grew up in north me feel like an amateur, and that I had thought through of western Sydney with a love of cars and saw lots all my arguments properly. of carnage, and I wanted to ask about that whole She’s just an incredible intellect and in some ways, she suburban masculinity. sort of strives for humanity to do its very best. She wants I often think I stumbled upon the subject matter that the human race to be more successful than it possibly can in gave me the success that I’ve had; but, it was more than some ways, and that’s the depressing nature walking away stumbling on it. I had only just survived my youth in a way; from Germaine, because I think I realise that it’s never going I’d been in some really serious car accidents. I’d had some to happen. deaths amongst my friends, lots of drug use, and the funny There’s this innate self-destruct part of human nature thing was, that most of the parents in our era had no idea that’s going to prevent these things happening. Although it was going on. And it wasn’t just me and my friends ... by the same token, it’s so exciting meeting someone who basically, I was the same age as most of the community. spends every waking hour thinking about the human It seemed such an obvious thing to try and explore and condition and why we do the things we do and how we can understand. be better at being human. There’d been a lot of sadness and hardship and Thanks Ben. Interview by Karen Farrell. excitement. I don’t regret any of it. It was those experiences

I’m like an old , tree that’s dying rd a sending forw ly flowers as quick as it can.

“

”

The 2011 Archibald will be at the Manning Regional Art Gallery from March 2 - April 8, 12 Macquarie Street, Taree. The Exhibition will be open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm. Sunday 1pm - 4pm. Admission is $5 for adults.

manning-great lakes focus 9

W H A Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / M A RC H 2 0 1 2

17-18

whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

31 Earth Hour

8th

This year, Earth Hour is on Saturday 31 March at 8.30pm. During Earth Hour, people throughout Australia and around the world will turn off their lights for one hour to represent their concern and commitment to address climate change. By supporting Earth Hour, you are part of a powerful global message.

Forster Tuncurry Boardriders Association Regional Development Series

International Women's Day Luncheon - Quota The Forster-Tuncurry Quota club will host an International Women's Day Luncheon on Thursday 8 March at Club Forster. Please contact the number below for more details. When Thurs 8 March 2012 Contact Nerelle Duff 6555 9921.

When Sat 17 & Sun 18 March 2012. Where One Mile Beach. Contact Aaron Dodds 1300 552085 or aarondodds@corecom.com.au

10 manning-great lakes focus.

10th

Forster Tuncurry Boardriders Association will be holding a Regional development series on 17 & 18 March at One Mile Beach, where some of the world's best riders will be attending to help out with development. For more information, contacts are below. Come and learn some new skills!

The Viking Six-a-Side Football Challenge 2012 T

10th &11th

When Sat 31 March 2012. More info www.wwf.org.au/earthhour or Sarah Bold 02 8202 1273

T annual six-a-side soccer competition attracts 100 teams (both men This aand women) competing for winners' honours. Regarded as one of the best tournaments of its type in NSW, games are quick, exciting and very b co competitive. Free entertainment provided on the Saturday night. When Sat 10 & Sun 11 March 2012. W Venue Boronia Park, Forster. V Contact Paul Sandilands 0427 592 137 or Jarrad on 0419 532 942 or C paul@thevikings.org.au p

Carlton Mid Gold Cup Race Day The Tuncurry/Forster Jockey Club is very happy to announce that another race meeting will be held on Saturday 10 March. Come along, glam up to witness the running of the 2012 Carlton Mid Gold Cup Day. At the track, gates open at 10am, with free buses running every half hour from Forster-Tuncurry. The club is also going to hold a 'Fashions on the Field' day to celebrate the running of this race, with prizes for both ladies and gents from some of the best fashion shops in the twin towns. BYO umbrella/chair, but NO BYO alcohol or tents. Food and drink will be available. When Sat 10 March, Tuncurry Racecource. Track gates open at 10am. to 26 Tickets on sale now. Contact Marg on 0429 967 823.

The new Scirocco R has just arrived. Take the new Scirocco R for a test drive and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll experience one of the performance pinnacles of the Volkswagen range. With unmistakable styling, a powerful 188kW TSI engine, plus Talladega 19â&#x20AC;? alloys, Bi-Xenon headlights, Adaptive Chassis Control and Extended Electronic Differential Lock (XDL) as standard, the new Volkswagen Scirocco R is the perfect combination of style and performance.

Das Auto.

Visit John Oxley Volkswagen for a test drive today.

Your Volkswagen Partner

John Oxley Volkswagen 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie Tel. 02-65888555 www.johnoxley.com.au

MD7571

advertorial

Matters. [ with Alan T ickle ]

t some point in our lives, most people will look back and wonder how different their life would be if they had made a different choice. On the flip side, others can look back and say how lucky they were that they escaped a terrible fate or had been fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time. Yes, life and decisions can be a lottery of good luck, but it can also be a case of being prepared to take opportunities with determination and being able to face whatever lands in front of you. That introduction leads me to share with you a moving story given to me by ‘Ben’, a fund managers’ representative who visited me this week. Ben (34) lives in Sydney with his wife ‘Trudy’, who is 30 years old, and like many young couples in Sydney, home ownership is a major undertaking – so they were renting, but with good employment. Saving for their dream home, including thoughts of children, is a priority. A few months ago, Trudy had complained of headaches, but the doctor she visited could find nothing wrong. Ben thought he detected changes in her ability to remember things, so he persuaded her to see their former doctor on the North Shore. They left that surgery still with no answers, but an order for an MRI. As they drove past Royal North Shore Hospital, Trudy stiffened, her face contorted, and she became unconscious. Ben drove over the median strip and raced the 400 metres to the ambulance entrance to Royal North Shore hospital, where six ambulance officers took charge, as Trudy was rushed to emergency. At age 30, she had suffered a bleed in the brain, which caused a stroke. Later that evening, Trudy had a more severe stroke, that meant that she was in a pretty bad way. Six months prior, Ben and Trudy decided that they had better review their insurance cover and

12 manning-great lakes focus.

for no apparent reason to them at that time, they took out a substantial amount of trauma cover. Within a few weeks of the diagnosis, a cheque arrived for $250,000 trauma payout, which took the pressure off them financially, enabling Ben to take all available leave and then leave without pay, to assist in his wife’s rehabilitation. Age was on Trudy’s side, and she has had remarkable progress in a short time and while there is some way to go, there is an expectation of full recovery. Ben said that people talk about heart attacks and other illnesses, but to see the struggles of people in the stroke ward and rehabilitation area, it really makes you emotional and realise that a stroke is a terrible thing to cope with. Because the insurance cover has given Trudy choices, she has decided not to return to her former occupation and instead work from home in a less stressful role. Ben and Trudy’s story reinforced my passion to educate and protect people from bad luck. Just this week, two young women also discussed insurance cover with me. One of those young women was shown that $19 per week provided her with $50,000 trauma cover as well as income protection on a level premium to age 65. In both cases, I recommended a fund that also provides for future cover for complications in pregnancy and for the child at birth. Taking cover now while they are young and in the low risk category and capturing level premiums ensures that the cost remains affordable when they are older and at greater risk. As I said in the introduction ...”Yes, life and decisions can be a lottery of good luck, but insurance can reduce the impact of bad luck and still leave the door open to fulfil dreams and being able to meet a life changing challenge”. This information and advice is of a general nature only and no reliance should be placed on the information before seeking individual advice from a Financial Planner and Taxation Adviser to ensure the appropriateness to individual circumstances. Alan Tickle and Your Heritage Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.

legallight. Justin Stack. e careful what you tweet, blog, text, post or send ... A couple of years ago, nobody would know what you were talking about if you warned them to be careful what they tweet, blog, text or post on Facebook. Go back a few more years, and sending via email was a novelty. Many of us still don’t have a clue what they all are. But a growing number do, and it is rapidly becoming clear we have to be careful what we say on these new methods of communication. In recent months, there have been some landmark legal developments that have a huge impact on how we all use social media. It was reported a prominent author had to pay about $13,000 to settle a legal defamation case after she’d used her blog to falsely accuse another blogger of being the person who had posted a hate message directed at her. She was part of a campaign by female bloggers to expose the extent of anonymous hate mail they receive over the internet. But she’d accused the wrong blogger and found herself at the end of a law suit. The case illustrates an ugly side to the new media – the high level of abusive and hate filled language, as well bullying and threatening messages. Usually the abusive writer hides behind a pseudonym. It’s hard to find out who they are.

United States providers argue it’s free speech, and they’re not responsible. But in Australia, an internet provider such as Google can be described as a ‘re-publisher’ and may be held liable for a defamation they carry if they’ve been warned about it. A Queensland court has ordered Google to reveal the identity of a person behind a blog who’d called someone a “thieving scumbag”. Other courts have ordered providers to reveal the identity of people who’d made nasty comments on news and travel websites. Instantly tweeting what comes into one’s head, particularly when under the weather, has got loads of people into trouble. Similarly, how many times have we sent emails, only to realise seconds later we’d said something we’d regret, or worse, sent it to the boss or a spouse. It makes sense to use a program that delays sending your tweets or emails by a few minutes. It gives you precious time to think it over and double check. Remember, nothing is truly secret when it goes out over electronic communications. Two British men were refused entry to the United States recently after one tweeted to a friend they were going to “destroy America”. The men said they only meant they were going to “party and get trashed”. US global communication monitoring had picked up the key words and officials deemed them a threat. The simple solution is to think twice before you send once.

focusonfashion.

CARLTON MID R A C E D A Y

T R A C K S I D E

Tuncurry-Forster Jockey Club Gold Cup will once again give trackside fashionistas the chance to strut their wears and showcase their unique autumn racing style at the Carlton Mid race day. This event promises to be the most glamorous to date. Once again, tables in the Pavilion will sell out fast, so don't be disappointed, with race day fashion parade and Fashions on the Field both being highlights of the day. Members Pavilion seat from $40 (includes entry), nonmembers Pavilion from $45 (includes entry).

Enthusiastic Fashionistas will don their best race

Please contact Marg in regards to securing tables and seats in the Pavilion. Phone: 6555 6586 Mob: 0429 967 823.

become Tuncurry-Forster's most prestigious

wear and head to the glamorous catwalk area, with the lure of significant prizes. Event organisers feel the judging area will be buzzing during the Gold Cup carnival. Fashion hopefuls compete in what's been said to outdoor fashion event, with the event growing yearly and attracting major sponsors.

on the field Categories are • Most Elegant Lady • Best Dressed Gentlemen • Best Dressed Junior • Best Dressed Couple • Best Hat Judging criteria women's race wear • Appropriateness of the outfit for autumn racing. • Attention to detail with accessories (appropriate headwear mandatory). • Grooming and Deportment.

14 manning-great lakes focus.

Men's race wear • Appropriateness of the outfit for autumn racing. • Attention to detail with accessories. • Suits and appropriate headwear is encouraged. • Grooming. The day promises to be a great day of racing, with a 6 race programSuper Saturday with TAB and book makers – local, Sydney, interstate. Entry $15 non-member, $10 members and pensioners, under

18s free, must be with an adult. Food and drinks available. NO BYO ALCOHOL. Bus service Forster and Tuncurry. The event schedule • Gates open – 11am • Race 1 – 1pm • Race 2 – 1.40pm • Autumn Race Day Fashion Parade –1.45pm Sponsored by – Ballistic Chix, Contempo, Iguana, Margo's Ladies Fashion's, Village Boutique, Yarad's

Menswear • Race 3 – 2.22pm • Fashion On The Fields – 2.30pm • Race 4 – 3pm • Race 5 – CARLTON MID GOLD CUP RACE – 3.50pm • Race 6 – 4.32pm

contact. Please contact Marg 6555 6586 or 0429 967 823 garrymargaret@bigpond.com www.tfjc.info Lee-anne Yarad 0409 983 619

focusinterview. K E L LY B E AU C H A M P - TAT E ’ S N U R S E RY

out in the

Spring is often the time people most savour to get out into the garden, Spri although autumn can also be a terrific time to harvest or to plant new l flowers, vegetables or trees. Kelly Beauchamp, owner-manager of Tate’s Nursery in Forster, talks autumn magic...

hat’s special about with months and months of flowering (they autumn to you? are also great for filling pockets of your Autumn is my most garden). We must not forget sweet peas favourite time … – for fantastic results, after enriching soil, Generally the weather sweet pea seeds should be sown around St is at its most consistent, and plants enjoy the Patrick’s Day. relief from summer’s sun. Autumn can be a Autumn is the only time to plant spring very productive time in the garden ... from flowering bulbs. Buying early ensures top cultivating new garden beds and making quality bulbs (store them away in a cool the most of the last fertilising opportunity position until you are ready to plant – I find before winter, plus pruning, mulching and April is the best time). Some cool climate of course, the best part – planting. Autumn bulbs can be stored in the crisper section of is a gentle season, and planting at this time the fridge for a week or so before planting. allows plants to thrive and be ready to take Make sure the bed they’ll be planted in off when the ground warms in spring. has been well prepared by adding blood and It is also the season to think big and plan bone or composted cow manure. Freesias, new sections of garden, mulch down beds daffodils, Dutch iris, jonquils, tulips are all for the winter after fertilising, or establish spring flowering bulbs to be considered. new plantings. Small tasks like filling pots Are there any particular species of with spring flowering bulbs, or adding new flowers you’re looking forward to seeing season vegies and herbs to the bloom over autumn this year? garden and mass planting I always enjoy the onset of pansies and violas are other camellia season, from the ways of being active in early flowering sasanquas It is important the garden in autumn. to the late winter japonica at th r to remembe rtilising What types of plants varieties. These would fe d an g prunin .A and flowers can be have to be one of the go hand in hand n of a planted in autumn? hardiest of plants. light applicatiort iliser slow release feeded The autumn vegie Camellias can be used is all that is ne gn of garden is generally in the garden in so many si t rs until the fi very productive and ways – from stand-alone g. sprin quite foolproof. If people specimens, to gorgeous pot have experienced trouble plantings and also for screening keeping grubs and caterpillars or hedging purposes. Varieties to out of their garden, the good news look out for include Baby Bear, Buttons is that the cooler nights will see an end of and Bows, Fairy Wand, Blood of China and these hungry little pests. And the end of the Baby Jane. humid summer months means the end of There is a position for a camellia in most most fungal problems. Definite crops to be gardens. There are varieties that will perform included are broccoli, broccolini, cabbage, in the full hot sun right through to deep kale, peas, spinach, cauliflower, beetroot and shade … from dainty, single flowers that Brussels sprouts. hang like lanterns to big and bold jumboAs far as flowers are concerned, there is sized blooms. My only word of warning: a large variety of choice. Bedding flowers camellias don’t like dynamic lifter or chicken include pansies, violas, poppies, stock, manure – don’t be tempted! primula and snapdragons. Plant these Are there any new garden trends varieties in autumn, and reap the rewards evolving in 2012?

We are seeing a shift in planting to include a lot more colour. While coloured foliage is something people have always been drawn to, it seems to be that we are being attracted back to using more flowering plants in the garden. It is important to point out that there is a general misconception that a flowering garden needs a much bigger commitment by the gardener, but it doesn’t need to be this way at all. With careful selection, you can have a very hardy collection of plants that will offer you colour all year round. The marketplace exploded with DIY landscape architecture in recent years. Is the somewhat sterile look of the architectural garden still as popular? Just like some people keep their home interiors very simple, I think that there will always be a place for the architectural style garden. It represents the style of homes that are being built at the moment, and people are attracted to this style of planting because of the fact that it is very low maintenance. I think the best style of garden should reflect the owner. There is nothing better than visiting a home when we make our deliveries, and instantly associating that garden to our customer. It can be with a signature use of colour, a quirky statue, a style of planting, or even a plant that they obviously love repeated throughout the garden. It is important to remember that your garden is just that – your garden, and it should reflect your own style. Tell us about the importance of pruning in autumn? Autumn brings with it the chance for either big or little change in the garden. Early autumn is a great time for big renovation pruning. You can safely take a third of growth of now, and your plants will recover before the winter sets in. Always be careful when cutting back into woody style growth that you do not go below the last set of leaves; if you do, your plant may not recover in time for winter. Pruning frequently

throughout the autumn allows you to keep your workload light and will keep your plants tidy. With all the rain we have been having recently, plants will have shot away very quickly and by keeping this soft growth in check, you will benefit from thick, healthy plants. It is important to remember that pruning and fertilising go hand in hand. A light application of a slow release fertiliser is all that is needed until the first sign of spring. Autumn is traditionally a time to ‘feed’ the lawn. Why is this? If the lawn hasn’t been fed since springtime, then early autumn provides the perfect time to do so. Grass grows quickly at this time and especially with all the rain, so I would advise a product that would concentrate more on root development than just greening up your grass. A slow release fertiliser is perfect. It might also be wise to set mower blades higher. For the green thumb, the good news is that autumn is rose season ... what varieties can we expect to enjoy this season? The end of summer can leave your roses looking a little bit tired, but with a bit of care, autumn can bring you a fabulous last flush of flowers before their winter prune. There are always plenty of new releases becoming available; however, it is the tried and tested older style roses that are still my favourite. Most people would agree that they’re hardier in the garden, while still providing a gorgeous array of flowers. Mr Lincoln and Papa Meilland give beautiful velvety red flowers. There’s also Freesia and Gold Bunny for sunny yellows. Seduction and Bonica flower for months on end with pale pink flowers. Not forgetting varieties like Double Delight, Peace, Angel Face, Blue Moon and Iceberg. The good news is, you can find almost any colour in roses. Thanks Kelly. Interview by Karen Farrell. manning-great lakes focus 15

focusinterview.

Forster Tuncu y Do hi

The sport of Rugby Union has a long history on the Mid North Coast and has enjoyed mixed fortunes. We speak about Rugby to Phil Wilkins, Club Member of the Forster Tuncurry Dophins and Old Bar Clams Club President, Tim Brown. ell us about the history of Rugby in the ManningGreat Lakes area? Cedar cutting gangs working about the Great Lakes and Manning Valley in the late 1800s were among the early sportsmen to escape the perilous existence of timber-felling to venture into a lawless weekend rivalry in hobnailed boots called Rugby Union. Rugby remained a social occasion for young bucks, restricted to village games with organised competition barely existent. The game's stature was not enhanced by the decision to pay players to turn to Rugby League in 1907. By the 1970s, Rugby Union was better organised on the Mid North Coast, with Taree, Port Macquarie, Gloucester and Kempsey forming a competition. The Taree Bulldogs claimed the first official grand final in 1976. The more densely populated township of Port Macquarie won successive M.N.C. premierships from 1978 until 1981, after which Old Bar club struck a blow for more localised clubs, capturing the title in 1982. Formed in 1973, Coffs Harbour club initially played in the Far North Coast Zone. However, the town's locality and the distances teams were required to travel led the club to join the Mid North Coast Zone in 1990. Friction flared up within the M.N.C. concerning the distance factor, with officials planning a breakaway until it was decided in 2007 to divide the zone into two sections, providing the Lower M.N.C. with its own competition, now with seven senior clubs: Manning River, Old Bar, ForsterTuncurry, Gloucester, Wallamba, Harrington and Myall Lakes. What is the name of the Rugby District the Manning Valley and Great Lakes falls into? The Manning Valley and Great Lakes regions 16 manning-great lakes focus.

are included in the Lower Mid North Coast Rugby premiership, colloquially known as the Southern Shield. Rugby has a great tradition of ‘Old School Tie’, so that there is a competition in the local high schools for Rugby ... why isn't the ARU lobbying schools to have it included? The Combined High Schools Association conducts healthy and active Rugby Union competitions in Sydney and some country regions, with positions in their three representative teams highly prized for annual games against teams from private school organisations, the G.P.S. and the C.A.S, once the traditional breeding grounds of senior rugby. Immigration has dramatically changed the game, with Polynesian and Melanesian students now a dominant force in the game. Schoolboy Rugby in the country is seriously in need of greater investment in finance and manpower. The Australian Rugby Union must utilise its resources dramatically to compete with Rugby League, soccer and Australian Rules at junior levels. How many teams are in the competition, and how many divisions do they field? Seven clubs are involved in the L.M.N.C. competition this winter; the Myall Lakes Mudcrabs in Hawks Nest is a new addition. Each club will field one senior team, but despite the need for juniors, there will be no Colts competition. There will be two rounds of home and away games, 12 games in all, to determine the four leading sides for the semi-finals. The big grudge match was once between the Clams and Dolphins ... is this still the case, or is there now a greater rivalry brewing between other teams? For years, the major grudge match in the Lower M.N.C. was between the Manning River Ratz and Forster-Tuncurry Dolphins, while Port Pirates and Coffs Harbour became deadly rivals in the zone's north. The win by the Hastings

RugbyRival Valley Vikings in 2010 helped alter that northern tradition. While the Ratz are regaining profile in the development of the Lower M.N.C., the Old Bar Clams and Dolphins have developed their own special rivalry, having shared the last four grand finals with two wins apiece. The Dolphins have dominated the finals berths for a few years now ... who do you expect to see in this year's final? The convincing manner in which Old Bar accounted for Forster-Tuncurry in last year's grand final indicates the Clams are the team to beat again this year. They have a new coach in Chris Marchant, their splendid acquisition from the Central Coast and last year's grand final man-ofthe-match. Forster is at the cross-roads, while Wallamba loom as a major threat. The new Myall Lakes Mudcrabs are the dark horses. The black jersey of the Mid North Coast was a jumper worn with great pride. How does the M.N.C. rate its chances at this year's Country Week? The M.N.C. Axemen are undergoing barren times in representative Rugby. They had a poor carnival last year, although their Under-19 representative team under coach Mark Hudson performed well. Prior to that, last position in the Richardson Shield deposited M.N.C. on the bottom rung of N.S.W. Country. Playing the N.S.W. Country Carnival in March is anathema to a coastal zone, with cricket and surf lifesaving depleting representative teams. Country Week for MNC Zone senior and Under-19 teams was abandoned this year. The Zone's board decided to organise coaches and managers and stage a triangular series between the three major regions this winter and prepare for a return to Country Week next year. Is the Mid North Coast still fielding a team for the U 20s Country week?

An Under-20 competition is the stairway to a Wallaby future. It should be installed on a compulsory basis for M.N.C. rugby to be represented at all future N.S.W. Country Championships. No team will represent the zone this year. Mark Ella worked closely with the community in Port Macquarie. Did his presence inspire a greater awareness of the local competition? A great Australian player, Mark Ella was one of three brothers to play Test Rugby, living and working in the M.N.C. zone. He kept a low profile, rarely exerting his influence in administration. It is a basic fact that Rugby League and Australian Rules and, to a lesser extent, soccer, attract Aboriginal footballers due to their professional nature. The Ellas were exceptions. Rarely does Rugby retain them. Which up-and-coming players should we be keeping an eye on? Gloucester's Tom Middlebrook and Old Bar's Mark Drury were two of the zone's finest young players, but will play for metropolitan clubs this winter, as are Forster's Max Elmes and Sean Hassett. From Wallamba, hooker Jeremy Segol developed encouragingly last season, as well as Old Bar winger, Joel Minett. The Loring brothers, Drew and Jake, switched from Rugby League and played well for Forster. The best of all the young players was Manning River's centre, Kurt Lewis. He has signed a contract with the Rugby League premiershipwinning Tuncurry Hawks and appears lost to Rugby Union. He is fast and elusive and a matchwinner – all too hard to find. Thanks Phil. For more information about the Forster Tuncurry Dolphins, contact: Damian Daczko. adeptval@bigpond.net.au 0427 545 306

codes then plays Rugby – they seldom leave. In the Central North Competition, they have a well advanced Rugby Competition from 6 - 10 years to U16s, U19 Reserves and First Grade. The task of refereeing can be a thankless one … is the zone well stocked with qualified referees? I wouldn’t say we have an abundance of referees. The Referees Association seems to manage allocating refs week in, week out. I’m sure they would like to see more a large group of ex players offering their participation in our code. As people would experience and support to up and coming know, refereeing is a thankless job, and not players. Richard Crook, Brad McLaughlin, many people take on the role. Darren Drury, Todd Kennewell and Allan Tell us about what happens on bus trips Davis combined would have played close to to away games? 700 games of Rugby between them. Their Plenty! We have two bus trips this combined experience is shared year … the first trip is one to Tea among current and new Gardens, where we are versus players. Myall Lakes Mud Crabs Will you be fielding a In the Central n, on 28 April. The second io Reserve Grade this North Competit l trip is to Gloucester on el w a they have gby year? nced Ru 28 July. We organise va ad We won’t be m6Competition fro Bob Coupes’ 25 seater s, U19 fielding a Reserve 10 years to U16Fi t rs d bus from Hallidays Reserves an Grade side, purely due . de ra Point for our transport. G to lack of numbers. It Our bus trips are a great would be fantastic to see opportunity to bring the each club field a Reserve team closer together and let Grade and U19s sides but due our hair down. to young people leaving the area for Thanks Tim. work, we can’t get the flow on of players to For more information about the Old Bar secure Reserve Grade or U19s. Clams contact, Tim Brown: In years gone by, there had been healthy Tim.Brown@ridley.com.au – 0408 667 129. numbers for reserves and U19s. All clubs in Special thanks to Pat Breese for his the M.N.C. Rugby need to pull together to insight into Rugby and pertinent make this happen. questions for this feature. What are local clubs doing for junior Rugby development, and is the ARU offering assistance? NSW Rugby has a four to five year plan for Rugby Development. Junior Rugby has been neglected over the years, but NSW Rugby is now actively developing Rugby at a high school level up and down the Mid North Coast. Rugby Union has been predominately a private school sport, which some would say has been to the detriment of Rugby Development. The main thing that stands out is any new player that comes to Rugby from other

Old Bar Cla

he Old Bar Clams were one of the foundation teams of the Zone … when was this, and how many teams were in the competition then? Yes, that is correct. The competition started in 1981 with Old Bar, Port Macquarie, Taree, Gloucester and Kempsey fielding teams. From 1981 until now, the Clams have won the first grade premiership on six occasions in the years 1982, 1986, 1987, 1992, 2009 and 2011. Every team has an opposing team they’d most like to beat. In Sydney, the Marlins love to win against the Rats, while QLD cherishes beating NSW at Super 15 ... on the international arena, the Wallabies love to beat the All Blacks. Which team does the Clams most cherish thwarting, and why? Forster Dolphins and Manning Ratz equally. We have had a healthy rivalry with the Dolphins since the start of the Southern Shield Competition. Both clubs have played in the last four grand finals, with two wins apiece. Our rivalry with Taree is considered a ‘local derby’. Both Clubs play for the Charlie Crook Memorial Trophy annually and since its inception, the Clams have won three years running. The level of Rugby between all clubs has come a long way since I’ve become involved. In years past, players would have the opportunity to play for the Mid North Coast Rep Team, The Axemen. This team is picked from all clubs from Gloucester through to Coffs Harbour. Once selected, players represent MNC at the Country Championship each year. Due to lack of interest and/or the right

formula, MNC Zone isn’t present at the annual Country Championships. The MNC Zone is looking at other ways to encourage player participation at this level … it would be great to showcase the Rugby talent of the MNC at Country Week. Have the new rules significantly changed the shape of the game and made it more of a spectator sport (for instance, it’s not uncommon to see the back rowers standing in the centres from the set pieces)? The new rules are aimed at player safety and cleaning up the ‘breakdown’ area, to see quicker ball recycling. The only criticism I have is that the game has become over ruled! Safety is paramount in our game … when you have two teams with combined weights of 1,700 kg, safety rules need to be in place to ensure players aren’t injured. Since the amended scrum laws came in, the ‘Touch, Pause, Engage’ process gives all players the opportunity to set and be ready for the hit. In earlier years, you would see scrums pack and come together in an awkward looking mess! In my time in Rugby, I haven’t seen any neck injuries occur from the scrum. Given that it’s rare to hold the ascendancy at all phases, where are the Clams aiming to dominate most of their opponents this year – up front in the tight 5, at the breakdown, or out wide? The Clams have been fortunate to maintain a similar playing roster for the last three to four years. Our strength is all across the park! We dominate through our big mobile forwards, then unleash our backline with space provided. We are extremely fortunate to still have

manning-great lakes focus

focusinterview.

ross

noble.

The English standup comedian saunters into the Manning Great Lakes to entertain the audience with his revered brilliance and wit ... oss, we’re looking forward to welcoming you back to the Manning Entertainment Centre. Thank you. I do like Taree. Troy Bayliss is from Taree, and I’m a massive Troy Bayliss fan. I don’t know him; it sounded like I was going, “Yeah, of course Troy is from Taree; so I’ll be calling in to see him!” To us mortals, we just assume you famous people all know each other and you hang out in your famous club drinking famous cocktails. Yeah, we do. We all live in the same house. In fact, Troy and I live in the Big Oyster together. So that’s what’s going on in there! Ross, help me with a puzzle. Why do people at your concerts throw shoes and muffins on the stage? It’s so much more than just shoes and muffins! What’s weird is that in the UK, it’s got out of control. Here in Australia, it hasn't – and I’m quite happy about that, because I’m not having to deal with all this rubbish that comes up onto the stage. There was one night, the best thing, and we actually ended up putting it on the DVD. Somebody made me a suit, a full suit with lapels and everything, out of bubble wrap. An actual bubble wrap suit! It’s a brilliant invention. When people leave stuff on the stage, if they’ve put a lot of effort into it, that’s amazing. When they just chuck something up there, like one night somebody just left some ketchup sachets on the stage, and I thought, “You’re not even trying.” Of all the famous people that you’ve met, who is the person who made you pinch yourself? Well, people who are big heroes, like meeting any of the Monty Pythons or Billy Connolly or any of those people that you just idolized growing up. Mind you, Terry Gilliam did tell me to F... off at one point. He was very drunk, and I asked him to sign a Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas thing, and he just told me to F... off straight away. Elton John was absolutely the loveliest man you could ever meet. You might expect him to be throwing a tantrum, but he was just the nicest man. This is turning into a very bizarre interview! Yeah, myself and Elton John hang out in the Big Oyster with Troy Bayliss. Sounds like the start to a very good joke.

18 manning-great lakes focus.

Actually, it’s funny, because the people that I get really star struck about are people that wouldn’t necessarily be big Hollywood stars. It’s great to meet those big stars, but they’re just actors like anyone else; they just happen to be very, very famous. Whereas the people that I get absolutely in awe of are people like Troy Baylis, Dougie Lampkin (12 times World Trials Champion motorcyclist) and David Knight (3 times world champion Enduro rider). There are people who you wouldn’t expect to be starstruck by; like Kerry Anne Kennerley came to my gig in London, and it was one of those things where I was really excited. I was like: “I can’t believe Kerry Anne’s come to my show!” Especially in London, you know? Nobody else in London would have known who she was … Exactly! And that made it t Oh, another nighthe even better. I mean, what in y gu a there was was doubly weird, while ad a audience who h Topwe’re going off on this tack ZZ g n lo very, very of weird famous people, I I was style beard, and l, who did the gig and afterwards el h y d like: “Bloo at the bar I went up there d it is this bloke?” An s from to see who was around, mile when you n o b ib G was Billy and from that night I’ve got tour. What can we ZZ Top. this photograph of me, Kerry expect this time? Anne and, get this, Salmon Ah, you’re going to Rushdie. love this set. What I’ve done What? Not three people that you is I’ve gone back through all would expect to ever see together! my previous shows and DVDs, and I’ve filled Exactly! That is the weird thing, you know, the set with everything you can imagine. It when you meet people and they know your fills the whole stage. There’s a giant octopus, work – I find that quite freaky. Christopher there’s a few little silver balls in there, there’s Lloyd (Doc Brown in Back to the Future) came a duck, um, just random stuff ... pianos, a big to one of my shows. I’m a huge Back to the telephone with spikes coming out the top of it. Future fan, and just the very idea that Doc We’ve got a film thing that runs at the start Brown is watching your show is, you know and there’s a big silver curtain that we project ... Oh, another night there was a guy in the onto and, I’m ruining the magic now – it falls audience who had a very, very long ZZ Top-style away to reveal the set. It gets more and more beard, and I was like, “Bloody hell, who is this elaborate as we go on. bloke?” And it was Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top. You’re just coming up with ways to annoy I hope you didn’t start paying out ZZ Top your touring crew. They thought they before you knew ... had a simple standup tour, and you keep I very nearly did that once. There was a throwing things at them. big fat guy with a baseball cap on, and I was Yeah, exactly. But you know, I love all that very nearly like: “You look like that Michael big, sort of Iron Maiden style stadium thing. Moore.” And it was Michael Moore! What I’d really like is when you see big Rock Can I just say, this is the most name dropping bands and they have all that scaffolding they I’ve ever done in my entire life. can run along at different levels. No, I’m really impressed, and I want With the fan blowing up from the entrance to the secret famous club underneath. where you all hang out. Now, when most Oh, yeah. I love all that. So I try and do a bit comedians tour, it’s with a microphone of that. I mean fair enough; standup is just a and a case of beer, but you go the extra person talking, but it’s nice to make it a proper

show. Have some great music, a bit of a light show, projector and all that. You want to make it a proper show; you want to give people a night out – a theatrical experience. We’re looking forward to seeing it at the Manning Entertainment Centre on 28 March. Last question: what is your secret skill? Hmmm. Well, I can drive a tank. What? Yeah, I bought an old British Army Tank, and I drive that around. This interview has completely changed my whole vision of you. ‘Yes ... I’m hanging out with Kerry Anne Kennerley and Salmon Rushdie as I’m driving my tank down the street ...’ To be honest, it isn’t until you’ve just said that back to me that I’ve realised just how cool my life is. Thanks Ross. Interview by Jeremy Miller.

Tickets to the show Ross Noble’s Nonsensory Overload at the Manning Entertainment Centre 28 March. Tickets available from Video Ezy Taree. 6552 5699 or online www.gtcc.s.gov.au/mec

focusinterview.

.D\H DQG 0DOFROP :DOODFH

,Žǁ ĐĂŶ &ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ŚĞůƉ ǇŽƵ͍

Do a Carson

Born and raised in Sydney, Donna was always a hard worker. After winning a scholarship to study education at university, she became a school teacher. She taught in the Dubbo community for 15½ years, until she became the victim of a crime which changed her life.

uring an argument with basis. I’m a house manager and carer of her then partner, Donna my family and anytime in between belongs was doused in petrol and to me, three dogs and two cats. set alight. She spent 5½ You’re coming to Port Macquarie as months in hospital, 15 a quest speaker for the International months in rehabilitation and underwent 19 Women’s Day event. What other operations. speaking gigs have you been doing Donna is now an advocate for victims lately? of crime, burns survivors and survivors I am looking forward to celebrating IWD of domestic violence. Donna will help in Port. As my major commitment is to celebrate Internations Women’s Day this family, I have scaled back my volunteering year at a special event, Hastings Heroines, and advocacy work, including speaking to be held at the Glasshouse and hosted by engagements. However, my autobiography, the HBWN and Leslie Williams MP. Judas Kisses taking 2 years to write, details You live in Wingham. What do you my journey and continues my work. enjoy most about living there? It has been reprinted twice and sold The people, the sense of out. To have it reprinted again community and feeling will be up to ‘people power’ safe. Living in such – to fire up publishers, g in ok lo paradise makes it very am Hardie Grant: (03) 8520 I ating forward to celesbr difficult to go away 6444. y IWD in Port. A ment is for holidays. Your portrait major commitmscaled Family has become has inspired the to family, I have ng ri ee nt lu vo an important artist to paint you back my ork, w cy ca vo ad d aspect of you life again. How did an ng including spea. ki recently. Tell us that make you feel, engagements what's keeping you and what will be busy? different about the next Alone, I have raised and painting? supported my two sons. Coe Dave Thomas is a brilliant has recently relocated to Melbourne for Southern Highland artist. This time he work purposes. Bodean is in the RAAF at wants to paint me ’less traditional and Wodonga. more confronting’. I'm thrilled, but as for I'm fortunate to have both my parents: knowing what Dave has in mind, we will Dad, who is nearly 83 and now resides just have to wait and see. Meanwhile, I with me; and my mum, who is 80 this year organise the 2012 Archibald Entry touring and resides at ALMA place, as she requires the local area, and it's going up to Port specialised care. I spend time with my mum for a visit. A different medium, and it now every second day, doing the ‘girly thing’. continues the message. As a nanna, I enjoy having my six year Wherever the painting goes, it generates old grandson stay with me on a regular discussion and comment. It has a great life

and is doing a fine job. What are your goals and ambitions for this year? As I'm ageing, I need to live a more healthier lifestyle, diet, exercise and following up all the medical details that one has to do to stay well and strong and to be able to care for others. That includes taking time out for the activities that I most enjoy: shopping, being a market-stall holder, going out bush and visiting friends and more shopping! You have met some amazing people. Tell us about some of those experiences. Since being named Australian of the Year Local Hero 2004, I'm part of that family. Every year I'm invited back to Canberra to attend the Governor General's function for finalists and Prime Minister award ceremonies for Australia Day. This year, Geoffrey Rush was named Australian of the Year, and during our chat I cheekily welcomed him into ‘the family’. Every year I meet the most incredible Aussies, who all have one thing in common – passion for what they do. The same passion I see in many people who live here in the Manning Valley. What is your number one piece of advice to women who may be in crisis? For anyone in crisis, regardless of gender or age, seek information, support and assistance. To ask for help is not a sign of weakness or shame, but rather, a show of great courage and wisdom. We all deserve to be safe, respected and encouraged to become the people we are meant to be. Thanks Donna.

KƵƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚĂŬĞƐ ĂƐ Ă ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ƉŽŝŶƚ ʹ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĐĂŶ ǁĞ ĂĚĚ ǀĂůƵĞ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ ǇŽƵ ĞŶũŽǇ ƚŚĞ ůŝĨĞƐƚǇůĞ ǇŽƵ ǁĂŶƚ͍ dŽŽ ŽŌĞŶ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝƐ ĐĞŶƚƌĞĚ ŽŶ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƐ Žƌ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚƐ͘ ƚ &ŝŐƚƌĞĞ ŽƵƌ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚĞƐ ŽŶ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĨŽƌŵ ŽĨ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŐŝǀĞ ǇŽƵ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵƌ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂů ŶĞĞĚƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŵĞƚ͘ &Žƌ ĞǆĂŵƉůĞ͕ ĨŽƌ ǇŽƵ ŝƚ ŵŝŐŚƚ ŵĞĂŶ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵƌ ĨĂŵŝůǇ ĂƌĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĞǀĞŶƚ ŽĨ ĚŝƐĂƐƚĞƌ͕ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ĂŵŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ŝŶ ƌĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚ Žƌ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ĞŶŽƵŐŚ ƚŽ ƐĞĞ ǇŽƵ ŽƵƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŶ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŚĂƚ͛Ɛ ůĞŌ ǁŝůů ĞŶĚ ƵƉ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ŚĂŶĚƐ͘ KŌĞŶ ǁĞ ĐĂŶ ŵĂŬĞ Ă ƚĂŶŐŝďůĞ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ƚĞƌŵƐ ďǇ ƐƵŐŐĞƐƟŶŐ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ ǇŽƵƌ ƐĂǀŝŶŐƐ Žƌ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ͕ ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ĞŶƚƌĞůŝŶŬ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ Žƌ ƌĞĚƵĐĞ ǇŽƵƌ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĐŽƐƚƐ͘ ƋƵĂůůǇ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ƚŚŽƵŐŚ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ ͞ƐůĞĞƉ Ăƚ ŶŝŐŚƚ ĨĂĐƚŽƌ͟ ʹ ƚŚĞ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ĐŽŵĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ǇŽƵ ĂƌĞ ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ ƚƌƵƐƚĞĚ ĂĚǀŝƐĞƌƐ ǁŚŽ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ ǇŽƵƌ ƐŝƚƵĂƟŽŶ͘

^ŽŵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƚŚŝŶŐƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐůŝĞŶƚƐ ƚĞůů ƵƐ ƚŚĞǇ ǀĂůƵĞ ŽƵƌ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ĂƌĞ͗ ͻ WƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ ƚŽ ǇŽƵƌ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƋƵĞƐƟŽŶƐ ʹ ŝĨ ǁĞ ĚŽŶ͛ƚ ŬŶŽǁ ƚŚĞ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ Žī ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŚĞĂĚƐ ǁĞ ǁŝůů ŬŶŽǁ ŚŽǁ ƚŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ͘ ͻ ,ĞůƉŝŶŐ ǇŽƵ ŐƌĂƐƉ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĐŽŶĐĞƉƚƐ ďǇ ĞǆƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĐŽŵƉůĞǆ ƌƵůĞƐ ƐŝŵƉůǇ͘ ͻ ǆƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ ǇŽƵƌ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ ǇŽƵ ŵĂŬĞ ƐŽƵŶĚ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ ƌĂƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ĞŵŽƟŽŶĂů ƌĞĂĐƟŽŶƐ͘

manning-great lakes focus 19

Manning-Great Lakes

Cover Dish Pork medallions served on a bed of mash with a rocket salad and balsamic reduction from Harriganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Irish Pub.

eat. Dining Guide is now available on the App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 20 manning-great lakes focus focus.

eat.

Coffee Grind

Harrigan’s Irish Pub

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

Located on the banks of the beautiful Manning River in Harrington, Harrigan’s Irish Pub is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week, we offer a variety of daily specials, as well as a great à la carte menu. Harrigan’s can also cater for groups and functions. Please contact our Functions Manager for more details. Monday – Friday: $12 specials. Choose from 12 great menu options for just $12 each. Saturday: $17.50 steak night. Sunday: $12.50 roast. Contact us on (02) 6556 0555 to reserve your table.

Owners Cara and Matt.

59 Wharf Street Forster t 6557 5155

Head Chef Dale Phillips.

Harrington Waters, Josephine Blvd, Harrington t 6556 0555

open 7 days. From 8am.

open Breakfast: 7.30am-10.30am. Lunch: Mon-Fri 12noon-3pm, 6pm-8.30pm. Sat 12noon-9pm. Sun 12noon-8.30pm

FLOW Espresso

Beach Bums

Experience the Mid North Coast’s newest beach venue. FLOW stands for ‘For Love Of Water’, and the café decor and ambience reflect this theme. The menu caters for the health conscious and the hungry, with a wonderful variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Two fully qualified chefs create culinary delights in the outdoor kitchen before your eyes. Kids play area, chill out lounge and alfresco dining – dinner bookings essential.

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

31 David St, Old Bar t 6557 4224 open Tue to Sun; 8am to 4pm and Thurs to Sat; 6pm to 9.30pm. Fully licensed.

Located at the corner of North & Beach Streets, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au Current Opening times - 6.30am - 5.00pm - 7 days a week (weather permitting) manning-great lakes focus 21

eat.

Club Taree

The Belle Bistro

Our menu is perfect for enjoying the autumn months. Try our lemon pepper chicken salad or freshly made vegetarian pizza served with a Greek salad. Indulge in a home style favourite of chef’s pie of the day, or chicken breast kiev, or any meal from the range of salads, pastas, char grilled and seafood varieties available. Children’s meals, snack menu, desserts, cakes, slices and hot and cold beverages available.

Have you experienced the Bellevue Hotel Bistro lately? Bring the whole family down and enjoy a great meal by the pool. Afterwards, the kids can have a dip or play in the games room. Come down on a Friday night and enjoy some quality fresh local seafood in the bistro and listen to great live music, or come and join in the fun on one of our feature nights (Monday – poker, Wednesday – trivia, Thursday – karaoke). Be sure to try our lunch steak special for just $9.50 (7 days). Also keep your eyes out for shopper dockets, to receive your second main meal for just $5. Our experienced, friendly staff look forward to seeing you soon.

Chef Kevin Williams.

Manning Street, Tuncurry t 6554 6577

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

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

*Opening times vary.

Tuncurry Bowling Club Sail Away Café Specialising in fresh seafood and succulent steaks, the menu offers a delicious range of meals. Try our traditional beer battered fish and chips, a mouth watering mixed grill, tender salt and pepper calamari, or tempura King Prawn cutlets. Club Café Open all day, 7 days a week. Club Café offers a great range of indulgent cakes, slices and biscuits and also a great range of snacks, gourmet sandwiches and melts, plus classic burgers.

3 Nippers Restaurant Relaxed, casual and fully licensed, the 3 Nippers Restaurant located in the Australis Diamond Beach Resort and Spa trades 6 days for lunch and dinner – open to both local and in house guests. Our menu is a fusion of local produce, modern cooking techniques and cultural influences, with the new seasonal summer menu just released. So call today and book a table to avoid disappointment; the team at 3 Nippers Restaurant look forward to seeing you soon. Chef Robert Robinson.

21 Parkes Street, Tuncurry. t 6554 6477 Sail Away Brasserie open 7 days. Lunch 11.30am – 2.30pm, Dinner 5.30pm – finish.

22 manning-great lakes focus.

Inside Australis Diamond, Beach Resort and Spa t 6557 3871 open Closed Sunday Monday and open Tuesday to Saturday lunch & Dinner.

Our friendly team.

eat. Weekend breakfast & lunch at the Bean Bar .

Bent on Food Bent on Food is a national award winning café/restaurant specialising in local produce. We are proud to invite internationally trained chef, Michael James, into our valued team. We are now offering dinner Friday and Saturday nights – bookings appreciated. • Cookery classes for adults and kids, including cheesemaking and barista classes. • Catering and private functions. • A large range of gourmet foods, including gourmet hampers, along with fabulous kitchenware in our sister store ‘Bent on Life’ just 2 doors up.

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

Head Chef Michael James.

1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022

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

open 7 Days Breakfast and lunch.

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

Raw Sugar Café

Bowers Café

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

Bowers delights in making all food in house, using the freshest local produce and serving locally roasted coffee. Perfect for functions and intimate weddings. Only 5 minutes from Taree, with a peaceful rural outlook.

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

Artist & Farmers Market Saturday 31st March 8.30am - 2.30pm. Stallholders may apply to Bowers Cafe. Freshest local ingredients.

461 Kolodong Rd, Taree t 6550 1230 open 9am – 5pm, 7 Days. Closed public holidays.

manning-great lakes focus 23

focusssocial. with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.

MLA Demi Lolback and Bent on Food Aaron Becroft

Mave Richardson at Year of Reading 2012 Enjoying the festivities at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2012

Enjoying the festivities at the Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2012

Jess and Sheryl at the Wingham Library

ebruary is meant to go quicker than course. the other months, because there Valentine’s Day is always a busy day for florists, are less days in it. But for me, it has chocolate sellers and restaurants, with couples proven to be a very slow month., declaring their love for each other by doing Me and some of the team at Bent something extra special for their partner. I love on Food decided to give the grog a holiday to the sheepish way that some men act on this day; join FebFast. Money raised from FebFast is used they enter the shop with sentences like, “Do for community services throughout Australia you have any flowers, because I am in trouble? I who provide support, mentoring, counselling forgot Valentine’s Day”. and training. Donations to FebFast minimise Now let me remind you, boys, that it is the the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs on our same time every year! We send them away with community. something sweet and hope that they redeem The lack of wine in my system was exasperated themselves; every day should be Valentine’s by the lack of sunshine throughout the month, Day, really. I received some beautiful roses and and I have found myself feeling a little bored spent the night with my partner, as he did the – not because there isn’t a lot to do, dishes while I served guests a stunning but because it’s been no sun and degustation dinner prepared by no wine; all work and no play. chef Michael James. I am looking forward to 2012 is National Year of bers Dignitaries, mem March, where I will travel Reading, and from February munity of the Taree com of the to Vietnam to conduct a 14 and throughout and supporters t in culinary tour; but first, I the week, there were festival turned ouevent, ul must get my work done. celebrations all around tif au force for a be ner, rt pa y ke Meat Livestock Australia to welcome the by ed host ty Council Australia joined Wingham start of the National Year Greater Taree Ci ambers in the Council Ch Beef Exports on Monday of Reading. There was site. overlooking the 13 February to present enormous support from the two fabulous seminars for media, VIPs, celebrities and all restaurateurs, butchers and three levels of government. producers. During the seminars, Manning Valley and Great conducted by MLA Training Facilitator Greg Lakes libraries across our region were Butler and Trade Development Officer Demelsa all celebrating with local ambassadors, who Lolback, participants learnt how to value add and included: Aleesha Darlison, Beth Fuller, Cameron how to present beef so that it is appealing to the Marshall, Gerard José, Jeremy Miller, Lorraine eye – and tasty too. Blacklock, Mave Richardson, Nicky Stevens, Ross They also learnt more about grading and Connell, Stephen Wood, Anthony Zanos, Bob profit margins. Participants tasted and scored Berrigan, Gloria Toohey, Kristy Symons, Marylyn different cuts of beef, all cooked the same way. Sendah, Natalie Price, Mayor Paul Hogan, The workshops were held at the cookery school, Shellyrae Cusbert, Steve Attkins and myself. which was a great venue for the event. Each We all attended libraries and gave talks about workshop finished with a tasty meal – beef, of what the library means to us. Our role for 2012 24 manning-great lakes focus.

is to promote reading. I have been a reader all my life and find that reading can relax me – like a magic potion! I believe that a well-read community is a creative community. There are book clubs popping up all over the region, which makes it a social activity too. Unfortunately, the Saltwater Freshwater Festival did not go ahead because of flooding, but we were fortunate to attend the launch cocktail party on Wednesday 25 January, which saw 100 people enjoy canapés from Bent on Food, Cassegrain Wines and some great local sounds. The organising committee was so pleased with the party, that they believed that the Festival planned for 26 January on the banks of the Manning River in Taree would have been a landmark beacon to reconciliation for Taree and the Mid North Coast. Dignitaries, members of the Taree community and supporters of the festival turned out in force for a beautiful event, hosted by key partner, Greater Taree City Council in the Council Chambers overlooking the site. Microwave Jenny, who were scheduled to perform on the main stage, gave audiences a taste of the fantastic line up that was programmed, which included the Black Turtles, the Yuin Ghudjargah Dancers, Stiff Gins, Casey Donovan, as well as an array of workshops and speakers. The festival is hosted by the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance Aboriginal Corporation, which is made up of the ten local Aboriginal Land Councils from Karuah in the south to Coffs Harbour in the north. Let’s hope that the festival may return to Taree next year. I would love to hear from you if you have any social events, weddings, parties ... anything! Send pics and info to donna.carrier@bigpond.com Cheers, Donna.

Darrin

focusinterview.

The journey continues for this instrumental band ... Warren Ellis, violinist with the group shares their genesis as musicians.

Head Chef of Beach Bum’s Café, Darrin Cornall, finds he’s been busy with extensions to his popular café ... e noticed some changes their accommodation – meaning they no lately. What have you longer need to carry a wallet to the beach. been up to at Beach We’re also about to introduce a phone app Bums? ordering system. Customers will be able to After five years of working out of what place an order and pay for anything on the seemed like a shoebox, we were given menu from their smartphones and pick it approval to extend the kitchen. up straight away when they arrive, After a week of working around eliminating the need to queue. the clock, we now have a Any tips for school proper commercial kitchen ... leavers looking for a Technology it’s heaven! career in the industry? is creeping in more to the We have also installed It’s a great career. I service side of new digital menu screens, recommend it. Like anything . the industry allowing us to alter the else, you get out of it what menu at the click of a button! you put in. Try to plan your We also added some extra work and work to your plan. furniture. Have a one year, five year and ten What do you love about the year plan – and stick to it. industry? What is your favourite dish to prepare It has given me the chance to travel and at home, as opposed to the plate you work in different countries around the world. enjoy preparing in the kitchen? In your opinion, what has been the I have just installed a wood fired pizza oven biggest influence in the hospitality/café in my backyard, so I’m enjoying experimenting industry in recent times? with all foods cooked in a rustic style. At Cooking has become very popular in recent work, it would have to be the new salads, as times, with so many cooking programs (on we were unable to do salads in our smaller television) and celebrity chefs. People are kitchen, due to lack of space. much more aware (and adventurous) about When not serving up a delicious brekky what they are eating. It’s very exciting. on Main Beach, what could we find you Do you have a favourite TV chef? doing? I admire Curtis Stone, not just for his That’s easy! Spending time with my son. cooking, but for his success. When I lived in He’s only ten months old, but he’s the funniest London, he used to come into the club I was little man you’ve ever met. Always puts a running quite often. He was only just starting smile on my face. He’s currently teaching me to get some media exposure then, with his to cook one handed! surfing the menu show. He was a really nice Thanks Darrin. guy – always joking around. Five years down the track, he is cooking for Oprah and he’s a multi-millionaire. What do you predict as the next big trend in the café industry? Technology is creeping in more to the service side of the industry. We have just introduced a charge back system, which allows guests to charge purchases back to

irty three have been around for over two decades, but for those of us who perhaps haven't heard of you, tell us about the band and your style of music. We are an instrumental band. We started in the early ‘90s, and the members are Jim White, Mick Turner and myself. Has you style of music changed over the years? Well, I hope it has changed. We are an instrumental group, and we don't have a singer or a bass player – so that's one thing that has stayed constant. We haven't altered the size of the band either – there have always been 3 people. What has kept the band together this long? We have always enjoyed playing together, and it has always felt like an exciting place to be – playing music. We left Australia in the mid ‘90s and headed for America, and then we kept touring. We decided to leave and find out if we could find an audience; so we had a few shows just to see what happened and consequently, I never came back to Australia (to live). Jim lives in New York, and Mick moved back to Melbourne in 2005 or thereabouts. It’s been such a big adventure. You’re coming back to Australia to do some shows, including at the Sydney Opera House and the Glasshouse Port Macquarie. What do you hope to gain by visiting a regional town – and potentially a new audience? Well, that's just it ... it is a new audience. It’s always great to play in front of different people. I am from a regional town in Victoria, where I was born, so I have an affinity with the regional areas. I guess it is always nice to play different places and in front of a new audience. So, you have a new album coming out this year, is that correct? Yes, it’s coming out in February. It’s been a while since the last album, hasn't it? Yes, it has been a little while. I think we have tried to record an album (since then), but it hadn't worked on several occasions. But

we have made a few albums, and I guess the question sort of came up that perhaps we had said as much as we needed to say. But I think we have always loved playing live and felt that there was a purpose for the band and the group, and that is what has drawn us back together. I mean, we all live in different countries, so getting together can be quite tricky – and it’s the same with some of the other bands I am part of, and also for Jim too, as he tours a lot with other people. As a group, Dirty Three collaborated with other bands and toured with them over the last 2 decades. What has been one of the standout highlights of this period? I think curating parties in England in 2007 was a real highlight. To pick bands and put them on and play was really great. I am very much looking forward to playing at the Opera House too, as we haven't done that before. I think Jim has played there before with Cat Power, as he has been with them for a while. What else keeps you busy? I play in Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, and I play in Grinderman. I do soundtrack work as well and have just wrapped up a few scores for some films. Anything notable we should keep an eye out for? Yes, there is a good documentary called West Memphis about the West Memphis Three – Produced by Peter Jackson and Directed By Amy Burg, who did a great documentary on the Catholic Priest called Deliver Us From Evil. Where do you see Dirty Three going from here performance wise? We are doing an American tour, and a European tour, a few other festivals and a tour of Asia and beyond. Thanks Warren.

the plug! Dirty Three comes to the Glasshouse as part of The Open House Project. Monday 12 March 2012. Tickets: $30. Call: 6581 8888.

manning-great lakes focus 25

focuseditorial.

Troy Cassar-Daley.

Fresh Seafood. ‘The seafood we sell daily is the seafood we catch daily.’ The Wallis Lake Fishermen’s Co-op was established in 1947. Many of the fishermen today are children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of the first fishermen to form the co-op back in 1947. The co-op has changed its focus in the past few years and has become a market leader in fresh sustainable seafood in the area and at the Sydney Fish Market. Wallis Lake Fishermen’s Co-op offers the freshest seafood on the coast. The seafood comes directly from the boat to the shop, 7 days a week. The fish shop sells local caught whole fish, fillets, prawns, crabs, oysters, lobsters and bait. We have 35 fishermen catching ocean and estuary fish/seafood 365 days per year. We promote the availability of quality seafood that comes from our local ecologically sustainable wild fisheries. We were recently a finalist in the ‘Excellence in Primary Industries’ in the Great Lakes Business Awards 2011.

26 manning-great lakes focus.

Troy Cassar-Daley is at the top of the Australian Country music scene. He has a reputation amongst his peers in the Australian music industry as being the most loved and respected singer/songwriter in Country music today. Troy released his new album on March 2. Home features 13 brand new songs by Australia’s greatest story teller. What is most extraordinary about Troy and Home is that the more successful and accomplished he becomes as an artist, the more his subject matter and perfectly attuned musical instinct turns to those small, universal things that constitute a meaningful life. “My farm has been a huge part of my writing since we’ve owned it. After the floods went through in Jan 2011, we thought it would never be the same – but we were wrong. Even with a bad flushing dunny, no carpet and mud stains still on the kitchen floor, Col Buchanan and I wrote some tunes we are really proud of. This song is about what Country is to us and what it does for your heart to have warm loving people who would give you the shirt off their back. That’s what Country is to me.”

Art Exhibition & tours to Italy. If you love sketching and painting, or long to explore your creative side but can never find the time, then a holiday in Italy with a group of like-minded people and an attentive, encouraging art teacher would definitely satisfy your desire. In June 2011, portrait artist Wendie Patch took one such group to Rome, Venice, Florence and Umbria for 15 days. The huge success of the last tour inspired sisters Wendie Patch and Sharon Tudor Smith, both highly respected artists, to offer more of the same in 2012. One tour includes cycling through Tuscan countryside and catches a stage of the Tour de France. The Other Side Gallery Teahouse invite you to join them for an exhibition opening and information night, featuring inspired works from previous travellers – as shown below. Our tours are carefully crafted by Jane Ryan of Travel and Tour Hunters, boasting 15 years in the industry – who believes it’s about the experience.

manning-great lakes focus 27

The flathead will be hot in March.

Poleys Place. Top Tips for Childcare Flathead Season. Flathead have been about in abundance over this summer period; February was no exception, and March should be the same. The Flathead are lying around the edges near tributary creeks and water flows. The discolouration due to recent heavy rains hasn’t really changed much for the Flathead fisherman. The water, the way it is at the moment, raises the subject of bait versus soft plastic fishing. Bait would be my chosen method when the water is darker; however, if I were to use a soft plastic ,I would be going for a darker colour – perhaps the darker shades of green with metallic flecks. I’ve had good reports of Bream being taken in the Wallamba River up near the Wallamba River Caravan Park. These fish have been taken on Mullet strips and prawns, with an average size just less than 30 cm but others being up to 45 cm. The deep sea fishermen have been able to hook onto some nice Bonito over the past few weeks, trolling around the edges of the reefs. Off the beach there have been some Tailor caught on whole Pilchards, while the beach worm is continuing to get the Sand Whiting. Fish well and travel safe.

28 manning-great lakes focus.

Poleys Place – a restful retreat by the beautiful Barrington River, 8 km from Gloucester along Thunderbolts Way in the foothills of the Barrington Tops. The camping ground has 1½ km of gently sloping river access, with shady willow, river oaks and bottlebrushes. It’s the place where all the family and groups can spend quality time together, without the big price tag; also, your family pets are welcome. Facilities include camping in the surrounds and peaceful grounds or one of our accommodation packages. Amenities include hot showers and septic toilets, BBQ areas, bagged firewood and for the kids, our animal park, where they can feed and interact with the animals. The property is a working beef cattle property of 550 acres and mainly turning over weaner calves.

My top tips when looking for childcare: 1. Start now! Luckily, we live in an area where parents do not have to put their child’s name on a list at conception! If you know, though, that you will be thinking about work or study, then find out the availability and what you have to do to enrol. Blossoms is already looking to 2012. 2. Be prepared It’s best to allow your child settling time, when a parent can be available if needed. Similarly, if you are expecting a child, think about placing your older child before the baby is born, so the child is happily settled when their brother or sister arrives. 3. Understand the childcare system. Information is available on www.mychild.gov.au

Our Hoedowns provide great entertainment for Country music fans at Easter and the October weekend, with Country talent performing, including a talent quest, on our open air stage – where you pull up your chair or blanket and relax in the natural surrounds.

4. Visit We welcome parents and children for play times. Parents can get to know staff and develop confidence in the transition. Appointments are necessary, so staff can be available to show you around. Timing is important too – rest time is not a good time to show a child the great things they will be doing!

So for your next holiday, give Rosemary a call and come to the country for the most relaxing, fun holiday for the whole family.

5. Relax Our early childhood education is highly regarded worldwide. We have dedicated staff and wonderful programs, where children are very happy.

H E N R I

focusinterview.

S eps.

hat’s Wish I’d Said That actually about? I’ve written two previous one-man shows which were autobiographical – about my life. This show is not. It’s about a bloke called Joe Bleakley, who’s a failed actor. He ends up in the Foggadieu Retirement Village, and he decides to entertain the inmates with wonderful features of characters from stage and screen, from roles he’s never played. He wishes he’d said these wonderful words at some stage or another. Through the course of this performance, we discover other things he wishes he’d said – he has an estranged relationship with his daughter, so he wishes he could’ve said certain things to her. He’s also cheesed off with things the government hasn’t said at various times and should have! Basically, it’s a guy looking back over his life, who comes to see the miracle of having been born at all and having a life – it’s extraordinary! The character Joe, as you mentioned, was not autobiographical, but how much do you actually relate to him? It’s fantastic, because the character is not related to my career at all, as I’ve managed to become quite well known. But it is amazing that when you’re NOT talking about yourself, you can put in stuff that you’d never really say about yourself – and in that aspect, it comes very close! It’s really intriguing that I can say things in this show that I would never have dared to say in a show that was about me – like my other shows, I’m Not a Dentist and Why Kids? I wrote the first one, because I thought it might interest people to find out about that bloke who played the dentist in Mother and Son, and tell the story of the actor and how I came to be playing that role. And after doing that for about 4 years on and off, I thought there’s another half to my life, which is my wife, my children and my home, so I wrote Why Kids? So now, I wanted to do something quite different, which is why I wrote about this guy who’s always wanted to perform these great pieces of literature – and never has. There a lot of gags in the show, a few songs … I think it’s an insight into getting older, the frustrations and the love. So where did the idea come from to write

this story? I suppose the real genesis here – and I don’t know why I’m talking to you like this … maybe I should be paying you as my shrink! There are real roles that I haven’t played, and I do actually mention them in the show – and that got me thinking. I open with King Lear and scare the audience! To give the readers a bit of background here, where did the whole desire to act begin with you? When I was 5 years old I was in Switzerland. I was fostered as a child – I was born in a refugee camp during WWII. My foster family took me in when I was 11 months old. There were It’s about a bloke a lot of babies falling ill ey, called Joe Bleakl and dying in the refugee tor. He and of course, he was standing who’s a failed ac ieu ad camp, and there were gg Fo e th in right behind me. I copped a ends up ge, and he lla networks throughout Vi t en em tir Re terrible hiding! He must have in the Switzerland, formed by decides to enterta rful recognised himself! And it de on w inmates with the Salvation Army and rs from te was that ability that I gradually ac ar ch of es featur the Red Cross, of families developed and leaned on more stage & screen ... prepared to take in these and more. I’ve always been able children. My mother had to tell a gag and get a good laugh. me fostered to this wonderful In primary school I did a lot of acting, Lutheran Swiss family – who and even then I felt the connection with the probably saved my life. audience and wanted to do it for a living. When I was 3, the war was over and my But I actually ended up doing Electrical mother was living back in Paris, which is where Engineering at Sydney Uni, because I wanted she’d lived before the war, and she took me back. to reassure myself and my parents that I wasn’t She had developed an inner ear infection in the going to starve to death! While at uni, I was refugee camp which would never clear up, and doing stand up around the clubs. One thing led she had to keep going back to the hospital for to another, and then I did some stuff for the operations. When I was 4½, she had to go back Ensemble Theatre, which was the turning point. into hospital, and she sent me back to the Swiss Many people would know you from family. Mother and Son, as it was such an iconic That time around, I remember when I was show. You must have so many wonderful around 5, there were 3 neighbours’ kids sitting memories from that time working with Garry on a wooden fence facing me as I stood in the McDonald and Ruth Cracknell … road, in a beautiful little Swiss village under the I think it was absolutely life changing for all of Alps. I was doing caricatures of some of the oldies us in many ways – me, Garry and Ruth. around the place – and the kids were hanging on Garry was already incredibly famous because to this fence with tears of laughter rolling down of the character Norman Gunston, but he wasn’t their cheeks. I remember thinking that I really regarded then as the incredibly fine actor he is. liked this – being the centre of attention and It was Mother and Son that gave him the bridge giving this pleasure. over into fi ne acting. For Ruth, it certainly did Then I decided to do a take-off of my foster make her famous; she was well known in theatre, brother, who was 20 years my senior – and I but not well known by the general public. And thought I was doing it rather well! And suddenly it was certainly life changing for me, because I’d – the kids stopped laughing. I turned around –

been knocking around for a long time doing tele and theatre, but never being invited into people’s homes of an evening, and that’s what Mother and Son did for all three of us. When I first approached the show, I saw a really black comedy, and I thought it was really clever. I thought we’d probably do 7 episodes, and we’d never hear about it again. But somehow, the show touched something in Australians … that compassion, or even that ambivalence we have when we need to help somebody. Dementia is a tricky thing; it’s difficult. The show brought this issue into people’s homes and allowed them to look at it, suffer with it, laugh at it and laugh with it. I think what I liked about the show above all, was that it didn’t poke fun of any other groups of people. Thanks Henri. Interview by Jo Atkins. Photo: Natalie Boog.

the plug. Henri Szeps will present Wish I’d Said That at the Manning Entertainment Centre on Tuesday 13 March. Adults $35. Pensioners $32.50 Under 21: $30. Groups (8+): $30 www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec (02) 6552 5699

manning-great lakes focus 29

30 manning-great lakes focus.

from Red Sky Catering. Gloucester

focusinterview.

Louise Oldfield

It’s getting more and more popular: super size and upsize to a bigger meal for only a couple of dollars more.

ost people can’t resist that offer. These businesses are pushing food down people’s throats at a huge rate. This is how ridiculous it’s becoming: you can now buy ‘a Burger; in a burger; in a burger’... that’s way too much burger for anyone. It would contain a huge amount of calories and a massive consumption of salt. And if you like shakes, a large Oreo chocolate shake is worth 2,600 calories; you couldn’t have one of them daily. With over 112,000 deaths in the US a year linked to obesity, why is this happening? Worst example I have ever seen is ‘The Heart Attack Grill’ in the USA – a ridiculous new craze. The grill is hospital themed; where waitresses are dressed up as a nurse and they place a theatre gown on you as you enter. Dr Jon, with no qualifications, is the owner. The menu is as follows: you can have a triple or quadruple ‘bypass burger’, with over 2 lb, nearly 1kg of meat, a mere 8,000 calories. Follow that with a butter fat shake, a tub of ‘flat liner fries’ – cooked in lard, not oil. And there’s a lunch to get the heart pumping ... or maybe stop it altogether. The best thing about this grill is if you weigh over 350 lb, you eat for free. The logo says: ‘A taste that’s worth dying for’. Funny fact: Dr Jon once owned a chain of Jenny Craig outlets … Then we have shows like Man v. Food – unlike the super slim, feral eating Bear Grylls from Man vs Wild. We have Adam Richman, who travels around the US, taking on a variety of local eating challenges involving meal size, spiciness and other daunting factors. He competes in eating competitions in every episode. At ‘The Big Texan Steak Ranch’ in Amarillo, the challenge was to eat a 72 oz (2 kg) steak, with sides of a bread roll with butter, potato, ranch beans, shrimp cocktail and salad in less than one hour. Adam completed the challenge

in 29 minutes. All up: 4,500 calories. Adam states: “When we come off the road, all of us go completely vegetarian from the time we get home.” Adam focuses on physical fitness in the offseason: “I work out with a personal trainer; I stay super, super hydrated.” But really, some meals he consumes over 10,000 calories. It might only be one or two challenges a week, but the stress on his heart and organs must be causing damage. Adam’s challenge in Springfield was to eat five bowls of firebrand chilli at Joe Rogers. Anyone who eats one bowl of the super hot firebrand chilli gets their name put on the wall. Adam matched the record of eating five bowls. I pity his poor partner sleeping with him that night … If you continue to eat more calories each day than required and are not burning them off, you will put on weight at a very fast pace. Not to mention, higher blood pressure, cholesterol, organ damage and high risk of heart attack. If it’s not a show on pigging out on food, it’s on the news and ‘eating competitions. It’s disgusting seeing people guzzle food down – kilos of meat, bread and junk food; most of it is over processed and destroying people’s bodies, with massive amount of calories. Competitive eating, or speed eating, is a sport in which participants compete against each other to consume large quantities of food in a short time period. Some take this ‘sport’ very seriously. Eating competitions are about years of training, for competitors to coach their stomachs in ways to expand and enable them to gorge on a huge array of food, in usually less than 15 minutes. I wonder how long Adam has been training his stomach. We need to have a good look at what we are eating, as I am quite sure we are all consuming way more calories than we need. I’ll take the salad – no fries with that, thanks. manning-great lakes focus 31

focusonweddings.

feature Photo to by The Mi Mill Stud udios ios ios Flowe we s by wer by Touc Touchwo hwo ood

32 manning-great lakes focus focus.

ou recently attended the wedding ceremonies of a couple who were married in two countries – one at Melbourne, Victoria and the other at Yokohama, in Tokyo, Japan. What were the main cultural differences you observed at each ceremony? There were some fairly huge differences. It was a wonderful experience, being my first time at both locations. The Melbourne wedding was held at Timber Top Private School, where the groom, Geoff, works as a teacher. It was a traditional Australian wedding ceremony, and the church in which the ceremony was held is spectacular. Marina, the bride, entered the church wearing a magnificent white strapless wedding dress and holding a beautiful arrangement of flowers. They chose to have some photos around the grounds of the school, which was fantastic, as it really depicted the rugged Australian bush in all its glory. In contrast, the Japanese wedding was a total eye opener. The ceremony itself was a private family affair, where family members from each side were formally introduced to each other. The Japanese people and their culture in general are so polite and welcoming. What stood out was the overall professional and organised way proceedings ran. Also, the friendly and warm feeling conveyed to guests was nothing short of exceptional. Tell us a little bit about the bride and groom and their backgrounds, please? Geoff and Marina met in 2007 on a tour of the Great Ocean Road ... and the rest is history. They are a perfect example of two people sharing and learning each other’s cultures. Timber Top, where Geoff teaches, is part of Geelong Grammar (where Prince Charles attended many years ago while in Australia). Geoff is a ‘true blue’ Aussie kid from the bush, with an honest heart of gold. He was actually teaching in Japan for a couple of years ago, so I think that might have been a

bit of a hint of things to come. Marina was living and working in Melbourne after moving to Australia, to broaden her horizons and learn English to teach Japanese tourists. In a recent conversation, you said that the Japanese wedding was timed to perfection and executed with military precision ... It was. I’ve been to a lot of weddings, and nothing has ever come close to the level of detail and perfection I experienced throughout the entire day – especially the reception. It was absolutely perfect in every way, with not one minute wasted. The reception had a Master of Ceremonies who was in total control of everything, from the music to the spotlights and even translated Japanese into English. The wait staff were like eagles – if your drink even looked like getting empty, they were there to fill the glass. What sort of activities did you participate in at each ceremony (I hear there was a beer giving ceremony in Japan)? The ‘beer giving’ ceremony was the single funniest thing I have seen at a wedding. Apparently, it is a Japanese custom to give some sort of thanks to guests. Marina told me some people light candles and give flowers, but then the wait staff strapped an actual keg to a backpack and put it on Geoff’s back and sent him around the reception area acting as a mobile beer keg – offering individual drinks to everyone. It sent the entire reception into applause, as he did the rounds to each table filling up jugs of beer on each table. I did see the odd shot of beer get sprayed straight into people’s mouths, which made for great photos. The Aussie wedding had a special moment when it was Marina’s turn to give her speech. She said thank you to everyone in English and had a special speech in Japanese for her mother and father. There was not a dry eye in the house, and even though I don’t speak Japanese, it was really touching and heartfelt. Talk to us through the decorations, table

wedding.

Photographer Brett Adams was recently flown on assignment to both Melbourne and Japan to capture images of a couple’s wedding. With an Australian-born groom and a Japanese bride, the couple decided to host two separate weddings in their native homelands ... We talk to Brett about these very disparate ceremonial experiences.

settings and different themes. From a photographer’s point of view, The Australian reception was a mix of timetell us about the contrasts between less beauty, with a splash of Japanese culture. shooting the different landscapes of YoThe table settings had some lovely Origami for kohama and the Australian outback. each guest, and the food had an Asian feel. The two locations couldn’t be A friend of Geoff and Marinas’ any more contrasting. Where just happened to be a florist, the photos took place in so the flowers for the Aussie Australia is right in the ceremony were spectacular. heart of The Man t “I’ve been to a lo From the flowers hangfrom Snowy River d of weddings, an me ing off each pew in the country. The rugco nothing has evervel of church to the huge arrays ged highland and le e close to th n tio ec rf of flowers in the recepsights of Mount pe d detail an tion and on each table, Buller were visually I experienced they were a real highlight. spectacular. It was throughout the entire day.” Each wedding definitely perfect in pretty had a real inspiration from much every way. the other’s culture. Yokohama, on the The bride wore a traditional other hand, was just as white gown to the Melbourne cergood, but for totally different emony and a pricey $20,000 Kimono to reasons. We were right in the middle of the the wedding in Tokyo ... busy hustle and bustle of a downtown city They were both visually spectacular. At setting. Neon signs and bright lights everythe Japanese reception, Marina entered in a where, thousands of people going about their traditional dress – an amazing Kimono that business … I’m told can take hours to actually put on. In What did the couple choose to give some cases, they have to get a special profesguests as a gift at each ceremony? sional dresser to help put a Kimono on. Some In Australia they gave some personalised can be worth up to $100,000 dollars. boxed Kit Kats, with photos of the couple at Geoff dressed in traditional Japanese atvarious times during their courtship. tire, which suited him. Halfway through the In Japan, guests were presented with a reception, they both left and returned in a beautiful dessert cutlery set. suit and wedding dress. Both the mums wore Thanks Brett. traditional Japanese Kimonos. Story by Karen Farrell. manning-great lakes focus 33

focusonweddings.

Myall Beauty Our team at Myall Beauty guarantees to make you the most beautiful bride on your special day. We offer the bride and entire bridal group special packages and very affordable prices, to ensure a relaxing and less stressful lead in to your big day. Our mission at Myall Beauty is to totally pamper and indulge the bride and her attendees, so that all that is required of the bridal party is to look beautiful and enjoy every aspect of the wedding day. At Myall Beauty, we offer a selection of special packages and treatments which may be conducted in one of our luxurious treatment rooms. Lyn and the whole team at Myall Beauty enjoy being an integral part of such a special day as a wedding, and we work with clients to achieve all their desired looks and requirements leading into the formal proceedings of the day. So take the time to call in and see Lyn and her team to pamper you before your big day, in the beautiful surrounds of Myall Beauty.

34 manning-great lakes focus.

Wedding Packages Great Lakes Winery Great Lakes Winery is a wonderful alternative wedding venue, offering an environment that allows you to design your day just how you visualise it. Set in the tranquil surrounds of the ‘back paddock’ in the rustic outdoor room, overlooking the striking gums and native trees lining the perimeter and providing a unique, stunning setting – a great wedding experience for you and your guests is assured! Great Lakes Winery offers a variety of options for both the ceremony and the reception, plus a variety of fabulous locations for gorgeous photography. If it’s a cocktail style party or an intimate sit down occasion – we can tailor make a wedding just for you. Make an appointment to come and have a chat about what you have in mind for your wedding with either Robyn or Cathy, by calling us on 4997 7255. Great Lakes Winery – 115 Herivels Road, Wootton 2423.

Tuncurry Bowling Club offers wedding packages specially designed to take the stress out of that special day. Our experienced team prides itself on attention-to-detail and goes to great lengths to make it a very memorable day. We offer packages to suit everyone with menu suggestions including a variety of two or three course meals, buffets or cocktail parties… The Showroom seats up to 330 for a larger wedding plus intimate dinner or conference-style seating. The Board Room is available for meetings and small seminars, and also provides a great venue for other significant occasions such as hens party’s, bucks nights plus birthdays and anniversaries. To find out more about our services, simply contact the club for an information pack that provides examples and ideas for all types of functions from a small corporate meetings through to the largest of weddings. Call the club on 65546477 and talk to our Head Chef, Ian Robinson, who will assist in selecting a menu your guests will truly savour.

The Brazilian Queen Enjoy a totally indulgent and unique beauty experience. Brazilian Queen is a professional waxing and tanning studio, which offers a vibrant, relaxed and exclusive alternative in beauty therapy. The specialised, no-fuss treatments are offered at very affordable prices. Staff at Brazilian Queen are highly experienced and efficient and specialise in Brazilian waxing plus all other forms of waxing. A resident eyebrow artist is also available to tame wayward eyebrows into a beautiful facial feature. Eyes can also be immediately glamourised, with fabulous and luxurious eyelash extensions. Natural spray tans are tailored to suit, with 2 hour and 8 hour development time options … The Brazilian Queen owns its own range of body products, to keep you looking great at excellent prices. You can personalise a product by adding one of the many scents on offer – completely free of charge – or create an individual fragrance as the perfect gift for someone special. All treatments, including waxing, tanning and grooming, are also available to men. We are as individual as you at the Brazilian Queen – come in today to be pampered by professionals.

Split Enz As the owner of Split Enz Hair Studios, Brooke Kedwell has over 15 years’ experience working with countless brides and greatly honours being included as part of their special day of celebration. Split Enz Hair Studios only books one wedding per day, ensuring the bride and her wedding party receives the exclusive attention of the Split Enz team of professionals. The wedding party is spoilt by Split Enz staff with a fruit and cheese platter and chilled drinks. To ensure the bridal party looks its best all day long, special anti-humidifying products are used to style and hold the hair in all weather conditions. Split Enz also offers spray tans, teeth whitening pens plus makeup and hair packages. Resident makeup consultant, Anita, uses beautiful SLA products. Anita is an expert in nail artistry, waxing, tinting and facials. Wedding packages can be tailored to suit all needs and requirements and at Split Enz Hair Studios, the bride receives a free makeup trial.

manning-great lakes focus 35

focusonweddings.

Carolyn Pearson As an Authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant, it has been my pleasure to have officiated at many weddings at Clarendon Forest Retreat in the last few years. If you are about to plan your wedding or renewal of vows, then contact me. As a Civil Marriage Celebrant living here in The Great Lakes and the Manning Valley areas, I deem myself to be very fortunate. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of officiating at numerous weddings, large and small, plus meeting people of all cultures and ideals. This makes my life always interesting and fulfilling. Being a Marriage Celebrant is a most rewarding occupation, and being part of a couple’s magical day is uplifting. Every wedding is special; every couple a new beginning with dreams to share. Organising a wedding can be daunting, and this is where I can truly assist you. Choosing your Celebrant is a personal choice. Selecting and booking the date and time is best done as early as possible, as some Celebrants are booked many months ahead. Please contact me to discuss all your wedding requirements.

36 manning-great lakes focus.

Event Us

East Coast Photography

The catering company Eventus was established to provide people with the type of food they deserve to be served anywhere ... where quality food and service are foremost to complement the importance of the event.

Craig Mason of East Coast Photography has been an active professional wedding photographer for over 15 years.

The food you serve to your guests at your wedding or any event plays an important role in making it one that you and your guests will always want to remember. Catering for all styles of weddings, from the more casual style finger food events to more formal sit down receptions featuring 2 - 3 courses. Regardless of how your wedding day is planned, quality and attention to detail remains our company's main focus, in meeting your individual needs and desires. • Fresh produce and sauces • Food exquisitely presented • Equal to the quality of top Sydney restaurants • Internationally trained Executive Chef • Professionally trained wait staff • Comprehensive event organisation • Only limited by the size of your selected venue & its facilities.

Craig photographs weddings in a relaxed, yet professional manner, capturing not only the important aspects of the day, but also the fun and spontaneous events that occur. An eye for detail and making the most of the light sets Craig's images apart from other photographers'. A unique blend of combining wedding photography with the landscape, creating the wow factor in his wedding photography, with brides and grooms photographed in a beautiful location as part of a stunning panoramic scene. Craig's stunning wedding images have won him many awards over the years; actually, each year since 2004, Craig has taken an award for wedding photography. In 2008 he received a Silver Award and 3rd in the world for wedding photography in the International Aperture Awards. If you're looking for a photographer to capture your day as it unfolds in an unobtusive and relaxed manner, then East Coast Photography is the right choice.

Clarendon Weddings. Share a magical experience with the ones you cherish with a country wedding at the award winning Clarendon Forest Retreat at Possum Brush. Tara Lodge is the latest addition on the Clarendon estate. It has a spacious entertaining room and with a large deck, offers an alfresco dining option taking in glorious views of the valley. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wanting a lively cocktail party, gourmet buffet or fine dining affair, Tara Loge is the perfect choice for special celebrations.

Weekend Long

Celebration.

The capacity at Tara Lodge offers formal dining for 60 guests and informal dining for 80 - 100 guests, with Clarendon Forest Retreat comfortably accommodating 45 guests in luxury private spa cottages. Friends and family will be spoilt, with two full size professional tennis courts, a swimming pool, daily horse rides and mountain bike trails. Pampering massages are also available in the privacy of private cottages.

Unique to Clarendon is the option to hold an informal family get together on the night of arrival and also enjoy a farewell breakfast following formal proceedings.

Let the team at Clarendon arrange your special day, whether it be a small elopement or a large country wedding. Staff will co-ordinate every aspect of the day, including arranging a Celebrant, flowers, hairdresser, makeup, photographer, plus catering. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity. To start planning your dream wedding, call Sharyn on (02) 6554 3162.

manning-great lakes focus 37

focusonweddings.

our STORY. How lucky are we? Moving to Diamond Beach 18 years ago, having endured the mind numbing daily commute into the Sydney CBD, Jacqui and I have carved out a better lifestyle, selecting the Great Lakes because of the spectacular waterways, proximity to Sydney and its climate. drafted the Free Spirit, chalked motors were vandalised during peak season it out on concrete, then engaged in January 1997. Our first child was born later a boat builder in Queensland that month, increasing financial pressure. ...what a nightmare! We ended In February 1997, along came the tourism up selling just about everything we decimating tsunami ... the Wallis Lake oyster owned to get the boat completed, including contamination crisis, leaving us hanging on by our vehicle, as the budget nuked out. a thread. Completed just before Christmas 1993, the Free Spirit Cruises is constantly fine tuning boat builder jumped ship, leaving me with the its business, with the operation today being parting words: “Keep a good 4 miles off Point a far cry from where it was in its infancy. Danger.”Great! Operating the Free Spirit may be nowhere It was near perfect sailing most of the way near as technical as my past occupation, but down the coast, until the BOM got it horribly it is certainly far more challenging, requiring wrong on Christmas eve 1993 near South skills from desktop publishing and marketing, West Rocks. Conditions were rapidly deterioto accounting and public relations, together rating, and the forecast 10-15 knot with understanding a raft of compliance nor-easter became a obligations. 20-25-30-35 knot plus Today, the focus is on efsoutherly. Our new boat fi ciency and sustainability, ses “Free Spirit Crui e was learning to fly, as we operating as clean and green fin ly nt is consta s punched into the howling as our budget permits. With tuning its businesn with the operatiocry southerly. Hydraulic fluid each efficiency gain, our r today being a fa as in oozed from the steering, costs reduce and our expow it re from whe making it mushy to steer. sure to potential fuel/energy its infancy.” Refuelling was nearly cost increases is minimised. To impossible, surrendering nearly this end, our aim is for near zero half of the fuel to the sea. Losing fuel costs. I will never owe another power or steering would have caused dollar to a power company in my lifetime; broaching, and a capsize was likely. When in fact, they will always owe me. push comes to shove, I was amazed how Our lighting costs have reduced by 91% by readily I would have been prepared to ditch my installing LEDs. Our carbon footprint is being fibreglassed life savings to save my own skin. offset through a carbon sink forest at the After arriving in Forster, the Naval Architect’s Great Lakes Winery. I am constantly studying plans that were acceptable in Queensland best environmental practice and always lookwere not so in NSW; I had to redraw them ing for better ways to operate. myself, missing out on peak season. Today, we have wonderful support from The sea change has had its challenges. The the local community chartering the Free Spirit planets aligned in a near catastrophic way for for work functions, parties, weddings, or us in 1996/1997. After completing a cruise in simply taking friends out for lunch on one November 1996, near cyclonic winds struck of our scheduled cruises. Groups often take while moored at Paradise Marina. The town our cruise to the Great Lakes Winery or do an blacked out, Free Spirit’s roof ripped off, and historical tour to Nabiac along the Wallamba boats spun on the deck of the marina. Tree River. limbs fell, adjacent buildings suffered major Free Spirit Cruises is proud to have won damage and in the middle of it all, a badly the Excellence in Environmental Sustainability shaken pizza boy delivered our pizzas. Award, Excellence in Tourism Award and The In December 1996, we lost our mooring Business of the Year Award for the Great Lakes in 2011. at Paradise Marina, and soon afterwards our 38 manning-great lakes focus.

manning-great lakes focus 39

40 manning-great lakes focus.

focusinterview.

look at me

Photobo th Instant snapshots provide a great wedding keepsake ... ow does Look At Me There are many different backgrounds Photobooths work? available, and we also offer various The photobooth is coloured backgrounds. Some of a portable stand up our themes include Valentine’s Day, booth that has great Christmas, Street Art and the Wild digital technology, which is incorporated West. Other options include different in the program and includes fantastic hair colours and dress up hats. superimposed functions and We can also create personalised background options. messages at the bottom of the strip, so It is easy to use, with touch screen newlyweds can have their name plus and voice command prompts. the date inscribed. Similarly, corporate Friends can have fun by logos are available. hopping in the booth and Any personalised choosing from either photo can be added black and white to the 4th frame of ge We encoura or colour photo the photo strip. o everyone wh th options. People seem o enters the bo own Four individual to lose their r to show thei . le poses are then y inhibitions when personal st is ly taken in the privacy parading in front al re e er h T of enclosed curtains. of a photobooth nothing to lose. In 15 short seconds, – why do you think the photo strips are ready, this is? and include two identical Our motto is ‘make strips on glossy waterproof paper fun happen instantly!’ The (which is perfect to use as a fridge photobooths are a terrific ice-breaker magnet). and provide a unique and fun way to For weddings, guests are encouraged see family, friends and colleagues doing to place one strip in the wedding album zany poses and enjoying themselves. with a short personal message and keep We encourage everyone who enters the other strips as a memento of the the booth to show their own personal celebration. style. There really is nothing to lose. Do you have different backgrounds The four individual strips provide an or themed Photobooths that opportunity for four separate, great people can have their photos taken poses. against? Usually the guests get more daring

after a few drinks and seem to come up with more ideas. How can people find out more about your business? We are easy to find on www. lookatmephotobooths.com.au or Facebook – look at me photobooths. We can also be contacted by email: info@lookatmephotobooths.com.au All information and prices can be found on the website. A booking form needs to be completed, and a small deposit fee is necessary to secure a booking date. Alternatively, people can call us on 0409 531 293 and speak to Steve about your impending event or function, to ensure it has a special touch which won’t be quickly forgotten. Thanks Steve. manning-great lakes focus 41

focusonweddings.

Whatever your event, we will help you create a memorable one.

Bowers Café For intimate, personalised weddings and events, Bowers Café & Gallery is the perfect choice. Cynthia and her dedicated staff are committed to making your experience a beautiful occasion. Ashleigh and Gary are one couple who believe that Bowers Café & Gallery helped create a wonderful wedding: “In planning our wedding, we wanted to celebrate in a location that was relaxed, yet sophisticated. “Bowers is exactly this. Nestled at the bottom of luscious green hills, Bowers created an atmosphere of natural beauty. “This was where we pictured ourselves saying ‘I do’. Cynthia and her friendly team went above and beyond planning our wedding and again on our big day – providing support in planning a menu of sensational food that suited our wedding theme and in making the most of the atmosphere Bowers has to offer. “They worked professionally to ensure our special day came together and flowed smoothly, nothing being too difficult, making our day one that would always be remembered.” Cynthia is happy to talk to you if you wish to hold a wedding or event at picturesque Bowers. You can be assured of an event with every detail specifically tailored to your individual needs.

42 manning-great lakes focus.

Silver Lining Events Nicci Cowle, owner and founder of Silver Lining Events, has a natural creative flair and the ability to push the boundaries of scope and imagination in event management. With 25 years of providing customer service to the hospitality and retail industries, Nicci also possesses a Diploma in Events, as well as Certificate III in both Hospitality & Business Administration. What do you specialise in at Silver Lining Events? Personal events and special occasions. Whether it’s a wedding, engagement, anniversary, birthday, corporate function or fundraiser, we will find you all of your needs – the perfect venue/ reception, decorations, caterers, entertainment, formal hire and much more, while accommodating any budget. Based in Port Macquarie, what areas do you service on the Mid North Coast? From Forster to Coffs Harbour. I will be happy to meet with clients at a convenient location that suits their schedule, at their home or at the local coffee shop. How do you provide an exceptional experience for your clients? No matter what the occasion, Silver Lining Events can create and design a style and theme as individual and unique as you are. Each one will have the Wow factor, which is achieved by working with you, going through your wish list and making your dreams become a reality. Come and see Silver Lining Events at the Mid North Coast Bridal Expo at Port Panthers, Port Macquarie, 27 May 2012.

Travis C Entertainment I’m Travis C, and entertainment is ME! Let me entertain you with my many records and CDs and digital sound system! I offer a fantastic mobile disc jockey service, complete with flash lasers, lights, fog and bubble machines – all the special effects to create a brilliant atmosphere for your big day, celebration or party! At Travis C, we are renowned for our large selection of music. We have a massive selection of music across many different genres, to suit all ages and preferences – ranging from the disco era to the ‘80s and ‘90s and all current hits on radio. Ring us today to talk about your music preference for your big day, and we’ll help you to select the right tracks to get all your guests up and onto the dance floor – for a night they are guaranteed to remember for a long time to come!

manning-great lakes focus 43

focusonweddings.

with Craig Mason from East Coast Photography

C A P T U R I N G T H E

moment

Extremely high stakes ride on wedding photography being of the finest quality, with enormous pressure placed on the photographer to capture top-notch images of the ceremony, reception and of course, the bridal party. Proffesional weddings photographer, Craig Mason, tells us about the tricks of the trade for taking breathtaking wedding photos.

edding photography is a specialist industry. How much experience should a photographer have before they can truly call themselves a wedding photographer? In my opinion, a photographer should have approximatley 20 full weddings, under different circumstances. Assisting a professional is the best way to gain experience in the industry, which will not only entail bag and camera carrying, but also include helping clients, as well as some shooting from different angles to the photographer. It's no big secret that great photography is all about capturing the moment. To exceed as a wedding photographer, is it important to be able to predict a moment before it actually happens? Yes. Typically, weddings follow a certain timeline and event sequence, but more importantly, you learn to keep an eye on the main people involved in the day and on how they are reacting. Also, being ever ready, with camera set to take a grab shot. You learn to grab a quick shot – then if able, recompose and shoot off more. Sometimes things can happen so fast that you don’t have that time to recompose. Do you take the approach of acting as the silent observer to capture interesting and candid images? Yes, very much so. Over the years, I have had many brides say that they did not see me during the service or at certain moments on the day. I do feel that this is advantageous, as not only am I capturing more true to life events and expressions, but to me, being unobtrusive on the day is important. Is it a general rule of yours to get to know the couple and their family before the wedding day? Usually I have had two to three interviews with them by the time the wedding day comes around. This builds a great relationship with my clients and helps all of us work together on the day. By getting to know them, their backgrounds and personalities helps me interact with them – helping us all have a good time during the day. Not everyone likes having their photos taken. How important a role does the photographer's personality play in getting people to relax and warm to photographs? Being a wedding photographer, you need to have a good personality and be a people person. There are certain times throughout the day where you need to be a strong person and take control a little, but most of the day you need to be diplomatic and a great interpreter. There is so much more to photography than 44 manning-great lakes focus.

just picking up a camera and pressing the button. Highly skilled professional photographers are ‘people people’. They’re able to engage with guests, be unobtrusive, work in any light or weather, cope with other service providers being late, compose beautifully lit, artistic images and photograph the subject so they look gorgeous. What sort of disasters or mishaps have you had to deal with the years? A few come to mind, but one in particular stands out. We had a wedding where the bride’s parents had recently separated and the mum had a new boyfriend. We arrived at the reception to find dad leaving in tears, as they’d all been seated at the same table. I took the father to one side and had a chat, while my assistant went into the reception and arranged for him to be moved to a table of friends – thankfully everyone then had a great night. How paramount is it to know your equipment inside and out? Don’t get me started on this one ... I had a person in my studio only two weeks ago who was shooting a wedding the next day – he hardly knew the front of the camera from the back! I am sure I could set my camera up blind folded! If a potential wedding photographer doesn’t know the difference between 1/250sec @ f5.6 and 1/1000 @ f8, then they shouldn’t be charging for their photography. To use professional gear is one thing, but knowing it is another. I once had an aperture mechanism malfunction on a lens during a wedding and was able to quickly compensate for it and continue using the lens during the day. No one knew, not even my assistant, who processed the images. The P setting on a nice new DSLR does not stand for ‘professional’. What sort of advice do you give to the bride and groom on the various forms of memorabilia available, such as DVD slide shows, scrap books or full wedding albums? A wedding album provides a tangible memory and something people can reflect on over and over. Also, a disk of images may be important to brides and grooms, who may just want low resolution images to share on Facebook. But the most important advice is that it’s not the money saved on cheap wedding photography, but the lack of quality images and lost memories. Thanks Craig. Interview by KF.

from Coasting Home

Amanda Priester

TIPS. Getting married can be one of the best and most stressful days of our lives. We gather our family and friends to share our special moment, wishing for good weather and that everyone will have a great time. o much planning before place setting, invitation, candy bar, wedding the big day: dresses, food, cake and floral arrangements, giving them venues, invitations, flowers; the wow factor. it is endless. Even a low-key Gifts are always a hard one; it is quite family wedding still needs popular to have a wishing well, where your some thought. guests can give money or vouchers for you Event Planners can offer valuable advice to spend on things that you need or desire. and ideas for the staging and presentation A gift registry in conjunction with this is of the ceremony and reception. great for people who do not wish to give All of those magazines you have been money; not everyone wants you to know reading, trying to get your thoughts how much they were prepared to spend and together, will help formulate ideas and give find a great value gift a better choice. direction as to what you want. Gift registries can help avoid the There are often wedding expos duplication of gifts and give your in your local area that will friends a start as to what to buy. be a great way to source Choose stores that have a “All of those the right sort of services wide selection of options ve ha u yo es magazin ing to help with each task and prices, and add a card been reading, tryghts to get your thou lp ahead. in the invitation telling together, will he d an s Like planning to them where you have ea id e at formul to decorate your house, a give direction ast.” lodged it. what you wan wedding reflects you and Thanking your guests for your partners’ taste and their participation and gifts is style. an old fashioned thing to do, but You may want a modern feel, and saying it on Facebook may not be as this can help determine styles of flowers, noticed as a hand written note or card sent table settings and other elements ... simple from you with love. lines, sleek vases, classic candles, all white And as the years go by, there is a new table decorations, beautiful dinnerware and thing to consider – wedding anniversaries. glass give a stylish look. Whether it is 1 year or 50, it is nice to There may be a place that you love or commemorate your special day with your a theme, such as the sea, that can be a partner. There are quite a few websites that guiding point in making choices. give details on what the traditional and Colour is a great way to bring the modern objects that represent the given year wedding party, ceremony and reception are. together; choosing a colour theme helps You may choose to go with this, or just to determine your focal points and details. say I love you ... it can be as simple as that, Touches of your chosen colour can lift a but remembering is the most important part. manning-great lakes focus 45

feature

focusonweddings.

Beauty timeline

The time leading up to your wedding is wonderful and exciting, but there can be stressful moments. It is essential to be fit and healthy.

n the day, all eyes will be on you, from the moment you arrive at the ceremony. To look and feel your best requires some planning in advance. Having invested time

and effort in preparing yourself for this moment will give you all the confidence and composure

If you don't feel comfortable with your first

you need to cope with any hiccups on the day.

makeup trial, shop around. A good bridal makeup

Following a regular beauty regime may sound like

artist should be someone you can trust to create

hard work, but will guarantee that you will be

the look that you want. On your wedding

glowing and relaxed on the day.

morning, be the first in the makeup chair – not

If you are in pursuit of dewy, bright, radiant

the last, after the bridal party have had their

skin for your big day, look no further. The

makeup applied. You don't want the makeup

Endota skincare range is the ticket you need to a

artist feeling tired and rushed.

luminous complexion.

H AV E A B E AU T Y T I M E L I N E

To transform your skin from dull to glowing

Six months – increase your intake of vitamin A

before your big day, get as much sleep as you can

by eating lots of fruit and vegetables. Drink plenty

and reduce your stress levels – both have a big

of water and exercise regularly.

impact on the overall quality of the skin. A healthy

Four to six months – visit a beauty therapist and

diet is also essential not only for your long term

arrange a series of facials to start working on any

health, but especially for your skin.

existing skin conditions.

Absolute essentials within your skincare

Three months – have some trials with a makeup

regimen are a good cleanser, exfoliant, eyecream,

artist; book someone for the big day. Try applying

and moisturiser. Begin your regime as early as

and wearing various products, so you won't feel

possible!

odd or uncomfortable on the big day. Don't risk

Skin goes through a 28 day cycle; it needs at least one to two months to really show the benefits of a changed skincare routine. Skin takes

sunburn and peeling red skin – moisturise daily, with a product containing sunscreen. One month – if you go a little overboard on

up to a month to get used to a new ingredient –

your hen's night, detox by loading up on fruit and

start your new skin regimen well in advance.

water. Have a final makeup trial and discuss your

Leading up to your wedding, consider using organic treatments to get the perfect bridal

ideal look. One week – make it a priority to eat properly,

glow. Make an appointment well in advance

sleep properly, relax and drink those eight daily

– at least six months before the wedding. Like

glasses of water everyone has been telling you

other treatments, organic treatments don’t work

about. Don't even think about smoking, drinking

instantly, but they do have fantastic results. Book

or dehydrating!

early to get the best assessment of your skin and what it needs in order to get the most out of the treatments. Bridal makeup is a major part of creating that

24 hours – get an early night and have a good night's sleep. Endota body treatments are very popular with bridal parties. Endota has one particular

flawless look for at least one day. Even if you do

treatment which is not only extremely effective,

not usually wear any makeup, your wedding day

but also delicious! The treatment uses the simple

is that one day where you can create flawless

combination of honey, sugar and yogurt to leave

beauty through simple tricks of the makeup trade.

you with soft, smooth skin. Sugar is a natural

Always have a makeup trial before the date, in

exfoliant, honey is rich in moisture and also has

order to test out any colour choices to see how

antibacterial properties and yogurt is particularly

they will look with the rest of your face and hair.

good for soothing any irritations.

Looks to enhance, rather than mask, your

Having a wedding soon ... come and see us at

natural beauty. Our makeup artist likes to see the

our stand at the Flair Wedding Expo, on 1 April

bride at least three months before the big day.

2012 at Taree.

Your initial consultation and makeup trial will take longer than on the day. Our makeup artist will make an assessment

46 manning-great lakes focus.

WEDDING SPECIAL $220 value for only $135

of your skin tone and select the most flattering

Certified organic facial with customised

colours for you (make sure you speak up if you're

aromatherapy blend. A Heavenly 30min massage

not happy with the choices!) Now is also the time

( where your body needs it most.) Buff, polish &

to find out if you are allergic to the brand.

shine for toes. Sole serenade footbath & scrub.

focusonweddings. feature

Photo by Imprint Imaging

Elegant & Stylish. So, you’re engaged, and its time to plan your dream wedding. Organising your wedding is an exciting time; thoughts of a festive celebration with your loved ones and gathering ideas for your special occasion spurs you into action, and a little knowledge goes a long way. To help turn your dreams into reality, The Flair Awards presents the Manning Valley’s Premier Wedding Expo, The Wedding Party, on Sunday 1 April. You will find expert help and information for your every need from a wide range of professional businesses, including all of the most important wedding venue and reception centres in the Valley, who are there to make your occasion especially perfect. Visitors will have access to face-to-face consultations and demonstrations, showcasing the best the Manning Valley has to offer to make a wedding day perfect. A significant and

Ambiance Day Spa. memorable part of the occasion is, of course, your gown, and The Wedding Party is sure to deliver. Highly respected Sydney designer, Ervan Woo, will be relaunching his collection of couture gowns at the expo. Visitors will experience the glamour and elegance of Ervan’s gowns, which will make for an absolutely stunning wedding day. Join us at The Wedding Party, where you will have your chance to find everything you will need for your dream wedding. Our experts will help to guide you through every step, from your choice of venue, Celebrant, bridal gown, DJ and florist. You can expect nothing but a fun filled and informative day at The Wedding Party. It will be full of fresh and unique ideas for the modern bride, able to be tailored to suit individual tastes and desires. To top it off, all visitors will be treated to a free glass of champagne, with brides also receiving a goody bag.

At Ambiance Day Spa, the fully qualified staff ensure that all clients receive the highest standards, whether it be waxing, facial treatments and skincare, nails, lash extensions, tanning, massage and relaxation, wedding services and IPL treatments.

needling, micro dermabrasion and medical grade peels. Catherine has over 20 years’ experience as a Certified Laser Officer, Government Accredited and certified Laser and IPL technician, an advanced dermal therapist – trained in Paramedical procedures and finally, is a member of the APAA.

Our wedding services include packages for the whole bridal party. Including the whole bridal party can be a wonderful experience, with a free glass of bubbly on the wedding day to help create a fun atmosphere, while ensuring they are presented from top to toe with total elegance; we have a huge reputation to uphold! Our brides always leave wowed by the transformation that we can achieve.

At Ambiance, we are proud to run Taree’s only night room with Vischy shower; this room provides the utmost in relaxation and atmosphere. The room allows us to provide invigorating whole body treatments, greatly improving tanning and overall skin health.

Pre wedding, we can provide total skincare and day spa experiences, to get that skin glowing. Our cosmetic skin professional, Catherine Hottes, is in salon once a month to help with those hard to treat skin conditions requiring IPL skin rejuvenation or depilation, cosmetic micro

Our latest hot off the press treatment is our luxurious lash extensions; no bride should be without them.You will be amazed at the results! No need for lashings of mascara! And who would go without that spray tan that will give a gorgeous summer glow without harsh sun damage. Let our team pamper you! Come in for a consultation and ask for a wedding package to suit.

manning-great lakes focus 47

coffscoast

weddingfeature

COFFSCOAST Ceremony, reception and accommodation at one venue.

A na natural beauty … An unspoilt paradise. se. e Coffs Weddings. Romantic setting, stunning backdrop, breathtaking views ... this is the idyllic weddings destination, where World Heritage mountain areas, beautiful beaches and Marine Parks lie side by side. It’s where your wedding memories will last a lifetime. On a boat, in a chapel, amongst rainforest vines, in a spectacularly themed venue, or perhaps on the beach ... Coffs Coast is a blissful location to start your married life. Whether it’s a romantic and intimate occasion or a gala celebration, there is a beautiful venue for your ceremony or reception. To help celebrate your new life together, we can offer awarded jewellers, creative photographers, beauty specialists,

COFFS

COAST

weddings

Picture an a intimate ceremony on an unspoilt

requirements. ents.

beach, or o a sunset ceremony on a golf

We have a great selection of modern

before celebrating with family and course, b friends iin a beautifully decorated reception area.

From a sunset sail through the Solitary Islands to being surrounded by hundreds of butterflies, strolling amidst tropical flowers to being showered by crystal waterfalls, not only is this a honeymoon destination that most could only dream of, but with over 101 things to do on the Coffs Coast, your guests will be as excited about your special occasion as you are.

and 3 bedroom droom villas are all self-contained with verandahs, providing a beautiful outlook of the

At NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Park, you can

celebrants, spectacular accommodation properties and theming and entertainment specialists to design your perfect occasion.

accommodation odation for you and your guests. Our 2

have this and so much more. Nestled amongst acres of coastal bushland, just 25 minutes 110 acre north of Coffs Harbour, we offer the perfect place

park to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife. Why not have a relaxing few days before the wedding with your bridal party and experience our fantastic activities and facilities. Play a game

for your wedding.

of tennis or lawn bowls, enjoy a round of seaside

Choose between two reception areas – both offering a relaxed atmosphere and your choice of theming. Our licenced restaurant, Ponds Café,

golf on our 9 hole course, or simply unwind with a stroll on the beach or swim in the pool and spa.

comfortably seats 70 people, or the Atrium

Our unique and serene setting, combined with

complex seats 160 people with a stage and dance

experienced staff and the simplicity of holding

area. Catering is made easy, with our team of

your ceremony, reception and accommodation

experienced and passionate chefs tailoring a

at one venue, makes NRMA Darlington Beach

package to suit your needs and special dietary

Holiday Park the ideal place for your special day. NSW MID NORTH COAST

Naturally Romantic

A day to remember

Secluded be achfro

The perfec

t venue

Intimate ce

remonies

Nestled amongst 110 acres of natural Coffs Coast wilderness, our venue enables the simplicity of holding your ceremony, reception and accommodation all at the one location. The idyllic setting, onsite catering and professional service will ensure your special day is one to be remembered.

02 6640 7444

www.darlingtonbeach.com.au/weddings

48 manning-great lakes focus.

FSHP_DB1302

enquire today on

weddingfeature

coffscoast

TWEDDINGS COFFS

COAST

weddings Unforgettable Beachside Wedding. Bre Breakfree to an unforgettable beachside wedding. The ide ideal beachside location and everything your wedding sho should be … peaceful, romantic, secluded and unique. Wh Whether you prefer the sand between your toes, a beachside lawn ceremony or the tranquillity of the resort chapel, we have the picture perfect ceremony locations for your special day. With four reception venues, catering weddings 30 – 150 adults, whether you are planning a formal seated reception with a 5 piece band or a relaxed cocktail style reception, with a DJ playing a song list created just for you. Our beautiful beach views, manicured lawns and gardens will create a gorgeous backdrop for your special day. Flexible menu & beverage options allow each couple to pick a menu based on their individual tastes and personal style. We also have a great team of specialty suppliers that come highly recommended; from theming to cakes and everything in between. Great offers are currently available for weddings booked during June, July & August; these include $150 off Chapel venue hire & $100 off Reception venue hire. To discuss your wedding plans or to receive a Wedding kit & Menus, please contact us on (02) 6652 7555 or email aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au

RSVP Bridal. Since opening in 1995, RSVP Bridal, located at Coffs Harbour Jetty, has been supplying local, statewide, national and international ladies with stunning and unique bridal, formal and party wear for all occasions. Locally owned and operated, the number one priority at RSVP is providing helpful and friendly service in a relaxed environment. All staff pride themselves on a very high level of customer service and always do their very best, assisting customers in selecting one of the most important purchases of the wedding, ‘THE DRESS’! RSVP Bridal is an authorised retailer, and all gowns are authentic from the actual designer; this ensures you are getting exactly what you order. Labels include Alfred Angelo, Brides Desire, Paco PM and Henry Roth. Our brides to be are surprised at the low prices of our gowns – particularly given the intricate details on some of the gowns, with prices to suit all budgets, from $250 to $2,600 and flexible payment and layby terms. An on site alterations service is offered to all of our customers, with a seamstress who has been altering bridalwear for over 25 years. Along with Bridal, Formal and Racewear, RSVP now stocks an affordable range of party dresses from $50. So for that next night out, make sure to check out all that RSVP has to offer!

InStylee W Wedding & Formal. I St l W InStyle Wedding d & Formal Services was created in 2008. Specialising in hair, makeup and beauty treatments with the convenience of a mobile service, InStyle can deliver stress free beauty solutions for weddings, formals, special occasions, photo shoots and more. With a professional and friendly team of qualified hairdressers, makeup artists and beauty therapist, it couldn’t be easier to look your best using the InStyle team. To achieve a beautiful flawless finish, InStyle uses quality products such as Napoleon Perdis and Natural Compatibles makeup. InStyle makeup artists will make your eyes stand out, sparkle and look healthier. Whether you are after a natural look, a glamorous look or a classic look, they will have you looking your best. If you want to get to your special occasion on time, contact InStyle for a professional, friendly, affordable service from Yamba through to Macksville. Testament to their excellent work is provided through regular testimonials from happy customers. “Our wedding was fantastic. My makeup looked great right up until we left the reception at 11.30pm. No shine in sight ... just perfect. And Andrea, my hair didn't move an inch in all the wind we were subjected to on the beach during the photos. I just loved it and was sad to take it out. Thank you so much, Nicole and Andrea. I couldn't have asked for better.” Kristy – Wedding at Sapphire Beach.

manning-great lakes focus 49

MARCH 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

Personal strength may be your challenge this month. Avoid relying on others to achieve what you are capable of doing, and be aware of self-destructive thought patterns, to achieve higher self-esteem. Most importantly, listen to your intuition; this is how you are being guided. Ruby protects us when we are vulnerable.

Set fresh goals, because exciting change surrounds you. Repetitive patterns have ceased, old contacts have left your space, new and exciting friendships are coming forward, and a feeling of contentment for home-life. Career changes can also be anticipated. Amethyst & Citrine or Ametrine is ideal for connecting our higher purpose to our consciousness.

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

Listen to your inner voice. Your restlessness is quieting, and change is imminent. Pay attention to cycle’s endings and know when to move ahead. Opportunity to express your creative self is approaching, so remain focused until the task is complete. Citrine connects our imagination to our intellect. Resulting in new ideas.

GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22 Relationships will likely be your major influence this month. Instead of engaging in conflict, simply see there is no problem, because there is no problem – and then there is no problem. Do not allow another to extract negativity from you. Sugilite helps us to trust where love is concerned.

‘Moving into the unknown without fear’ needs to be placed somewhere prominent, just as a reminder that you needed and wanted change for such a long time but you had to wait for the perfect timing. Well, here it is! It’s time for you to prioritise yourself for once. Enjoy! Rose quartz the crystal of love, connects us to our own heart energy.

Try and let go of that pessimistic streak that allows you to fall softly if things don’t work out, and recognise how clever you are at manifesting your thoughts. Once you acknowledge this ability, it will grow enormously. Have fun. Clear Quartz amplifies our self-awareness.

LIBRA.

AQ UA R I U S.

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

JAN 21 - FEB 19

This month should bring forward good luck and open new doors for further success. Stay focused on the task at hand to avoid being overwhelmed. A lot of social activity can also be anticipated. Be sure to have plenty of sleep, and journalize your dreams. Citrine attracts good luck.

Be B kind ki d to yourself; work out what you want and why you want it, and let the Universe bring it to you. Your time until now has not necessarily been for you; however, things are shifting, so get ready to pamper your mind, body and spirit. Carry some Citrine for a few weeks.

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

Previously set goals should begin to manifest, and new opportunities for future security will soon become evident. As fearful thoughts appear, try giggling at them to shatter them subconsciously. Waking up new joy and playful energy will soon seem easy. Citrine attracts positivity.

50 manning-great lakes focus.

Commit yourself to your fresh goals. They are, after all, life changing attitudes. Avoid being played by guilt games at all costs. To be able to implement these changes to your life, you need to know you are worth it. Be grateful for your higher attributes. Turquoise is a powerful confidence booster.

Sometimes we need to experience hardship to be able to appreciate more the wonderful things to come. You have always known how to get what you really want, and now is no different. Set some short term goals as well as long-term for complete contentment. Lilac Amethyst brings out our appreciation of all things great and small.

Relationship challenges are offering you tremendous wisdom and growth, but it’s important not to get caught up in the wrong kind of detail. Allow your partner to be your mirror, and find out why things bother you as much as they do. Then forgive and forget. Rose Quartz keeps our love strong in our aura.

Photos Shane Chalker. Story KF.

First Round Boxing was opened in the main street of Forster approximately eight months ago, by owner-operator Paul Cheers. The gym provides newcomers to the sport and professional boxers alike with access to expert trainers, who will assist in learning new skills and knock-out tactics in the ring. ‘Cheersy’ tells us all about the business of boxing.

PAU L

cheers

oxing involves combining skills simultaneously, including practicing footwork, punching straight and sparring ... Tell us about these basic element of boxing. Boxing is a pure art form; it’s a dance with a sting. They refer to boxing as the ‘sweet science’, because it incorporates dazzling footwork, blinding speed, balance, timing and incredible fitness. I believe it takes an individual six years to master the art of boxing. It’s the ability to stand in front of another human being and trade both attack and defense within the confines of the square ring. It is a mental attitude. Boxing offers strength of body, mind and spirit. Boxing is about old school respect – something which I strongly believe is more relevant in our society, and indeed needed in our local community more than ever before. Size notwithstanding, once a person has been trained in these three basic skills, what's the odds of them succeeding in a fight against an untrained fighter? Well, those odds will never matter to my boys and girls. The fact is, a trained fighter no longer feels the need to explore the possibilities of what they could potentially unleash on the untrained in a street situation. The trained fighter works so hard in the gym, that the last thing they would look for is more fighting. But to technically answer your question, a trained boxer can punch with every ounce of weight and stature they possess. For instance, I weigh approx 67 kg – not a huge man by any means; however, I know that a screaming left hook begins in my right big toe. And by the time it reaches its target, my fist weighs approx 67 kg (LOL)! And I guess that’s why boxing is strictly governed by weight division. Imagine how hard super heavy weight fighter Matt Georgio can punch – I’ll tell you – 108 kg at the knuckle.

... boxing is not ,abut rs tool to hurt othe ecting a means of prothe rs if yourself and ot offers ng xi needed. Bo dy, mind strength of bo about and spirit ... it’s ect. old school resp

How critical are speed and stance? At competitive levels, speed will win you a fight. If speed is maintained both with hands and footwork, it makes a person very dangerous and hard to hurt. Speed is a beautiful to behold in the ring – it’s the thing that entertains the crowd, and I guess it’s the signature of extreme fitness. A fighter absolutely needs to be fast, and this is done by conditioning arms with weight, so when you put 10 oz stingers on, you’re lightning. Stance is equally important. Stance is your range, balance and ability to move in and out of the danger zone quickly. Most important, stance is the ability to place your entire bodyweight behind every punch. Some trainers will teach two weeks of basic footwork before they will allow you to put on a set of gloves! In a way, I think this is a good move. It's hard to develop basic boxing skills if you're out of shape. What sort of training is required when preparing for the ring? The first thing we assess with people coming into Final Round Boxing is their level of cardio fitness. Boxing is hard. Really fit people find boxing training hard. But the fact is, all people can learn to box. When people come into my gym, I’m straight up with saying that boxing training is going to hurt. All kinds of people train with us, and that’s great, because I’m trying to expose the general public to the benefits of boxing training. I’m seriously not concerned about fitness level when you come to me. I’m determined to make you a different person when you leave. To a layperson, explain what these boxing terms means: the left jab, the straight right, a haymaker and a swing ... Ha! OK ... The jab is what I call the ‘can opener’… Supposing you’re right handed, your right

hand will usually be your strongest punch. However, it’s that short annoying left jab, which needs to be able to fire all night ... The ‘can opener’ causes discomfort and forces mistakes, closely followed by a nice straight right hand (your natural power punch). A haymaker: a relatively out of control right hand – a wild swing that if landed, can cause an upset (note: I do not teach a Haymaker!) A swing: a slang term which basically means throwing a wild punch from nowhere. Boxing is often lauded as the sport of buffoons. How do you defend this (not with your fists, please)? I can only give my personal account of the sport of boxing. From a distance, I guess I can see why people would rag on the sport. Muhammad Ali is, of course, the greatest; however, he now has trouble speaking … or look at some of the complete mismatches the sport has suffered in our own country recently. Yes, there is an argument that what I teach, and indeed what I love, could be called damaging. However, as a very troubled young person myself, boxing has given me the strength to go on when I thought I could not … it gave me pride when there was none and respect when I had none. And that’s just my story – there are plenty more stories out there that are similar. Take us through the ropes of how the trainers work at First Round Boxing? I’m fortunate to have a great bunch of volunteer trainers at Final Round Boxing. I must firstly give honour to Martin Ross, who

was Australian Amateur champ – he’s been mentoring me for around seven years as a trainer and is someone I regard as family. Also Matt Smith, who helped train kids at the YMCA, where I was given the opportunity to learn this great trade. I founded Final Round boxing with my beautiful partner Roz Fleming, who is my driving force. My great friend Simon Maidment, who is also a former Australian champ, works with the young kids at the gym – his way with young people is incredible to witness. In short, I have the best trainers working with me. Together, we have it all sewn up. At what age can children start boxing, and do you work with children with behavioural issues? I generally start children off from 10 years old. From this age, kids can be taught to understand that boxing is not a tool to hurt others, but a means of protecting yourself and others if needed. Who performed more convincingly in their acting roles as boxing champs; Sly Stallone in Rocky, Bob De Niro in Raging Bull, or Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler ...? Can we forget those three examples, and I’ll tell you my favorite boxing flick? Russell Crow in Cinderella Man. An absolutely awesome depiction of what I am trying to describe to you in this article ... using strength, pride, determination to achieve victory. That’s the movie I want people to associate a boxer with. How can people find out more about First Round Boxing? We’re situated at level 1/48 Wharf St, Forster. I can be contacted on 0437 385 445. My email is finalroundboxing@hotmail.com Thanks Paul. manning-great lakes focus 51

Oncology Services Fitness 2428 held a weight loss campaign in 2011 called ‘Biggest Winner Ultimate Thinner’. Owners Kerryann and Fergus Hayes have successfully helped participants lose over 1,500 kg and are now honouring their commitment to donate $1 for each kilo lost to the Oncology Unit at Forster Private Hospital. Additional donations have taken the total to $2,328, which will be used to purchase another Infusion Pump. The Oncology Unit was started through the vision and subsequent persistence of Sally Whitehouse. During her own battle, Sally arranged for her treatment to be administered at Forster Private Hospital, in an attempt to reduce the issues of family and social dislocation that travel to other centres can incur. Her vision was realised in June 2010, when ‘Sal’s Oncology Unit’ was officially opened. Sadly, Sal was not there. The Forster and Great Lakes community has taken up the challenge to give ongoing support and works tirelessly fundraising to equip the modern unit. Great Lakes Hospice provides financial assistance to develop and support Oncology services at the hospital and also provides assistance for uninsured patients to access the services. The demand for Oncology services within the Forster and surrounding areas is increasing, which is primarily due to population ageing –

52 manning-great lakes focus.

noting that older persons are higher users of Cancer services. The Oncology Unit consists of 4 treatment chairs in a discreet area of the hospital. The unit is also an outreach service of Manning Oncology Unit at Taree. If you or a family member would like to know more information about accessing the Unit, please telephone Kim or Jo at Forster Private Hospital on 6555 1333. Forster Private Hospital is hosting an Expo on 19 April 2012 from 10am - 2pm, showcasing the hospital and various support services available to The Great Lakes community. A BBQ lunch, morning and afternoon tea will be available. Anyone interested in having a stand at the Expo can telephone Janet Moffitt, General Manager, Forster Private Hospital on 6555 1333. The annual ‘Seals for Sal’ walk will be held in March. Proceeds from the day will be donated to the Oncology Unit. For more details, contact Fitness 2428 on 6555 8818.

Tired of feeling unhealthy, unfit and unmotivated? Wanting that to change…..for good? We all know our health is important but we live in a society where we seem to have “No Time” for anything and want everything yesterday. Between work, family and commitments there seems to be little time left for anything and usually it’s our health that suffers. Can you relate? Kerryann and Fergus Hayes Fitness Specialists and their team of trainers at Fitness2428 Personal Training and Pilates Studio in Wharf St Forster have a combined 30 years of experience helping people get their health and fitness back into balance. They know that no matter what has failed you before you can say GOODBYE to frustration for good, like many of their clients over the years with their very personalised approach to training and nutrition. Fitness2428 trainers take a long term approach to lifestyle change and their clients are happy! Both Kerryann and Fergus have long term Clients, some up to 12 years and have trained them through weight loss,

various health conditions, got them looking great for their wedding or special day, kept them fit through pregnancy, trained them for a variety of sporting events and even exercised with their kids. Their Personal Training and Pilates Studio concept is unlike any other in NSW and after 31/2 years in business proving extremely beneficial to hundreds of Great Lakes citizens. Working on belief that many people don’t like or are intimidated by the hustle bustle and large numbers of people at busy gyms, Fitness2428 offers a more personalised fitness experience. Our clients love the fact they work with a trainer and have an actual plan to get themselves healthy and feeling great again, it fits into their lifestyle and their results and successes monitored on a monthly basis. Our Fitness programs evolve as our clients get healthier and fitter. Great importance is placed on overall balance in health.

We understand the importance of nutrition, exercise, sleep, recovery and stress management and encourage clients to aim for improvements in all areas to get best results. Fitness2428 definitely doesn’t take ‘the more and harder the better’ approach to exercise or ‘quick fix’ approach to weight loss. We work smart and use the latest evidence based research when it comes to training clients for long term results! For best results most Fitness2428 clients use the facility on an average of 2-3 times per week consistently and are under the guidance of an experienced personal trainer each and every visit, whether that be one on one with a trainer or in a small group setting of 2-5 persons. So if you are looking to feel great again and are considering a personal trainer we encourage you to compare similar products in the area as nothing compares to Fitness2428 on quality, effectiveness and experience.

manning-great lakes focus 53

54 manning-great lakes focus.

focusTourism.

Richard Old from Great Lakes Tourism

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

UPDATE Richard Old dventure encourages you to Our region really is an adventure stretch your mind, body or both, playground. Knowing that adventure is for while having a great time. It everyone, it is easy to see why the Great doesn’t matter whether you are Lakes has such a reputation. Not only do we hiking up a trail to Whoota lookout, swimhost some of the country’s top adventure ming with wild dolphins in the Tasman, or races, we also have spectacular landscapes, paddling down the Manning. What counts National Parks, State Forests, beaches, is the new ways you are seeing the world, waterways and plenty of operators willing to making friends in foreign places and how take you somewhere you have never been you are pursuing your own definition before – outdoors. of adventure. Visitors come from across Even for those seeking Australia and the world challenging experiences, to explore our forests, the degree desired may paddle our lakes, surf at It is not only be quite different. Some our beaches, trek our for the super fit, crazy, skilled, will balk at undertaking trails, pitch their tents, risk taker potentially dangerous dive our wrecks and among us – it is activities like ocean . experience their own for everyone kayaking and find a trek form of adventure. through the rainforest In coming months, the at ground level sufficiently Great Lakes will host two challenging. Some will find adventure races. On 12 May, another’s ‘adventure’ decidedly the inaugural Forster Adventure Race unpleasant, disagreeable, foolishly reckless, (www.forsteradventruerace.com.au) and traumatic or boring. Junior Spirit will be held and on the June Therefore, the first principle of adventure long weekend, Australia’s premier adventure is difference: different expectations, physical race – Geoquest (www.geoquest.com.au) is abilities, likes and dislikes and psychological in town. makeups. It is not a matter of making an Both these events will bring adventure activity less adventurous, or more exciting racers from across the country to test their – nor is it a matter of participants’ ‘inferior’ skills. They will also have opportunities for or ‘superior’ physical or psychological the local community to participate – either resilience. It is simply a matter of personal as competitors or as volunteers. difference. Adventure is a very personal These events are part of a region-wide thing and in its purest form, it can be event program, which attracts events to not best described as doing something new – only expand our experiences, but increase outside. economic activity. An added advantage of So with that in mind, anybody can ‘do’ these events is the boost they give to the adventure. It is not only for the super fit, local community. crazy, skilled, risk taker among us – it is for Our reputation is growing, and many everyone. The growth in adventure oriented adventure seekers are choosing our part of retail, TV programs and marketing is proof the Mid North Coast to test their skills, as of this. well as escape and recharge.

manning-great lakes focus 55

focustechnology. with Cameron Illingworth from Harvey Norman

focusbusiness. with Peter Lynne from Manning Valley Business Chamber

Buyer Beware.

TECH

peter lyne. The Manning Valley Business Chamber has commenced 2012 with plenty of activity, starting with a Roads Forum in support of Greater Taree City Council and funding requests to repair the Valley’s roads.

partnership chairman, former General Manager of Mid Coast Water, Neil Hanington. Former chairman of both Boards, Tony Marshall, resigned in January due to being elected Chairman of Mid North Coast Regional Development.

hen I think of online Sure, these are internet horror stories, and purchasing, a slogan a small percentage of the total online sales, from an old workplace of but they are a reality of what can happen. mine comes to mind: ‘The Online purchases which are considerably sweetness of a good price is soon forgotten, cheaper than those of your local ‘physical while the bitterness of a poor product still store’ retailers are usually fulfilled using remains’. And while many online purchases what we call ‘grey market’ stock, or parallel are done daily without issue, it pays to think imports. This is stock which is designed for before spending on the internet. use in another country, with other systems, A friend of mine has one such example. on foreign power supplies in a different He made a purchase of a ‘top brand’ market. And often, local suppliers refuse Smartphone (not named for to service these products, as they legal reasons) from an were not sold by them. Australian website. He International l admits the temptation manufacturers are Internationaar e manufacturers was a $200 saving listening, and are e ar d an , listening e on the same phone looking to close the gap os cl looking to een tw be p ga bought in-store. between pricing for e th ent pricing for diffter When he received different countries, but is countries, bu lethoff hi the phone, the this may be a while off may be a w yet! language was set yet. to Chinese, which he In the meantime, when had to reset to English. weighing up your final place Months later, the phone of purchase, ask yourself a few had some technical issues and key questions. needed to have its software re-installed. • What extra power supplies and cords will He contacted the online store, but he I need to purchase to use this product in had lost his receipt, and the online store Australia? then said it was his responsibility to keep his • Where can I go to get professional records and would not help him any further. assistance with any technical questions I Keep in mind this was a $600 phone – may have regarding the product? not a small purchase. Dumbfounded by • Does the store I’m purchasing from this, my friend contacted the Australian leg keep records of purchases in case of of the company, and upon giving the IMEI misplacement of receipts? (International Mobile Equipment Identifier) • How long will I be without my product number, was told it was foreign stock, and if it needs to be repaired under a foreign that they would not service the equipment. warranty? A few days ago, after mentioning the • Who covers freight for warranty repairs? piece I was writing, I had another friend There is a lot to be said for purchasing who had made an online purchase, only from your local businesses, and the real test to have money start coming out of her of online purchasing vs. physical stores will account monthly without her authorisation. be customer service. For now, stick to the She was later able to fix the issue by going big players in online sales to protect yourself to her bank. from cowboys. CI. 56 manning-great lakes focus.

ebruary saw another forum, with well-respected financial commentator, Michael Pascoe, conducting a Business Forum at the Manning Entertainment Centre. The Manning Valley Business Chamber and TIDE has formed a partnership to work with business to assist in partnering to help job seekers and close the gap of indigenous disadvantage. Taree Indigenous Development and Employment Ltd (TIDE) were formed in 2008 under a Board consisting of seven members, the majority of whom must be Aboriginal Australians. The employment program provides staff who are motivated to work and be loyal employees and will have tailored preemployment training and post placement mentoring, to assist employers to explore opportunities to develop employment and training for job seekers. As part of the program, there are a range of financial incentives to employers, including tailored pre-employment training, wage subsidies and post placement mentoring. The program will see TIDE help employers who wish to explore opportunities to develop employment, training and work experience opportunities for job seekers. Also, to work with employers to help them develop Indigenous Employment Strategies and to provide assistance with traineeships, cadetships and apprenticeships, providing assistance with pre-employment training, tools, equipment, work clothes, wage support and mentoring services to employees and employers. The Manning Valley Business Chamber’s Economic Development Board is working in partnership with Greater Taree City Council to establish an action plan for the Valley’s future. The board has appointed a new

The Chamber’s economic development board is now chaired by Grahame Nash, with Neil Hanington, Paul Herring, Alan Steber, Amanda Tate, Grant Coleman, Graham Brown and Tim Deverall working with Economic Development Manager, Steve Attkins. The Economic Development partnership board is an independent Board of the Manning Valley Business Chamber and is in partnership with Greater Taree City Council. The next Chamber breakfast will be held on March 9 at the Bean Bar with Ray Slade, Community Relations Officer for Taree. The topic of discussion will be security and issues of antisocial behaviour within the business precinct. The Harrington Chamber has made a submission to Greater Taree City Council under the Community Capital Budget Item Request for major capital infrastructure for the upcoming 2012 - 2013 financial year. The Chamber is planning several stages to improve the amenities from the Harrington Bowling Club to the Marine Rescue building. The Taree Chamber has resumed meetings for 2012 with renewed vision and drive and is set to have a positive year. Chamber President, Shane McLeay, reports many businesses saw increased sales and margins over the last quarter of trading for 2011 in all sectors, including retail. The Taree CBD has welcomed two new businesses in Victoria Street: Graze Coffee Lounge and Margo’s. Consumers are excited about the Reject Shop due to open in Manning Street, giving Manning Street a much needed boost. Car sales have been in the news recently, and it is great that Taree Truck Centre is expanding to include a Great Wall Dealership.

uu .a.a mm coco o.o. xpxp gege inin atat ovov enen grgr inin ldld uiui .b.b ww ww ww

Building Building homes homes of distinction of distinction

manning-great lakes focus 57

ffocus fo ocu cusab abode. a bod ode. e.

MANNING-GREAT LAKES

property guide

ELECTRIC & REFRIGERATION

58 man 58 manning-great ann niin nin ng-g g-grre grea rea e t llakes a s ak ake

focusabode. Paul Mackie.

Mackie Electric & Refrigeration is celebrating 59 years servicing the entire Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester regions, with an open day on March 3. Chrissy Jones talks to your local owner operator, Paul Mackie, about this milestone and his latest accomplishment – being the new Solahart dealer in Taree.

ongratulations Paul; 59 years in business is certainly an achievement by anyone’s standards. Tell us about the history of the busi-

ness ... Mackie Electric was established in 1953 by my parents, Ray and Joan Mackie. They originally provided specialised electric motor rewinds and electrical services predominately to timber mills, the rutile mining industry and the many engineering factories that supported these industries. During the 1970s, expansion into the dairy farming industry and with the advent of on-farm refrigerated milk vats, commercial refrigeration service and maintenance became an integral part of the business. With the sudden passing of Ray Mackie on 11

Sept 1986, I took over management in 1987. We have steadily maintained growth right across the Mid North Coast, by providing prompt service to our clients. Our main aim is to provide top quality service and equipment and be able to assist with all energy needs. Having a fantastic team of technicians and apprentices, sales and administration staff, we pride ourselves on providing the skills to look after all of our customers. The team at Mackies are committed to the provision of quality electrical, air conditioning, alternative energy, gas appliances and refrigeration, with specialist services for commercial and industrial projects in a professional and timely manner. To achieve this, trade and sales specialists are supported by a dedicated group of administra-

tion and co-ordination personnel. Mackies are also committed to ongoing development and training of personnel to meet our safety, environmental and quality commitments, an ever changing market and industry demand. A major emphasis is also placed on the ‘whole of life cost’ for installed plant and equipment, including associated energy costs over its service life. Mackies has a team of very experienced people. Between our team, we have over 59 years’ experience in the Valley; our company employs up to 27 employees, with approx. 15 vehicles on the road, specialising in servicing commercial and industrial clients with air conditioning, solar, electrical, auto doors and refrigeration needs, along with an increasing demand for domestic air conditioning. You have strong company values. What are some of those?

Integrity – we firmly maintain the highest standard of integrity in all our business relationships and work with clients and personnel, who share this view. Best practice principles – provide sales, services and installation works which reflect industry Best Practises. Accountability – we embody a strong sense of professionalism and accountability and seek to build strong relationships with our clients and business partners. Innovation – we have always sought to deal with companies who demonstrate innovation to provide clientele with sustainable and environmentally sound products. Teamwork and team building – a key component of our success achieved through ongoing personal development and knowledge building of our dedicated team. continued over

manning-great lakes focus 59

focusabode. Scott Hadenhan.

Mackies late 1980s

continued from over

At Mackies, we strive for excellence, employing effective business management processes that are continuously improved. Our integrated management systems guarantee quality services, with an emphasis on personnel safety and environmental awareness. The primary function of all safety systems is the reduction in workplace illness and injury. In the continually changing workplace environment, the effective assessment and management of safety issues is paramount. At Mackies, we consider our staff and others’ safety of the utmost importance. Environmental sustainability is one of the biggest challenges we face in our global community; we have structured our practices with this in mind. Our philosophy is one of improving performance moving towards environmental sustainability. While operating effectively, we demonstrate a proactive approach, incorporating environmentally responsible practices into our everyday business processes. Since 1953, Mackies has serviced the Mid North Coast and has forged a strong rela-

tionship with many leading suppliers. Tell us more ... By specialising in air conditioning, automatic doors, electrical, refrigeration, cool room and freezer installations and solar grid and stand alone installations, we have gained a good association with our suppliers. Some of those include Daikin Air Conditioning, McIntosh Air, Dorma automatic doors, Solahart and RFI. We also offer many other specialist services, including coffee machines, ice machines, dish and glass washers, cool room and freezer installations, along with commercial gas appliance repairs. What does the future hold for Mackie Electric and Refrigeration? We will maintain strong ongoing business growth and development, by servicing the Mid North Coast region through the provision of prompt, qualified service to our clients. By implementing leading and innovative appliances and plant and providing assistance with all energy needs via sales, service, maintenance and installation, we will further grow our business.

We will continue to strive for ongoing business and partnership development through the promotion of sustainable and environmentally sound products and services, with emphasis on meeting client and industry needs today and into the future. You have been selected as the new Solahart dealer in Taree. What does this mean to residents? By combining the highly skilled team at Mackie Electric with Solahart, Australia’s leading manufacturer of solar water heaters, homeowners will easily be able to reduce their energy consumption and power bills and also do their bit for the environment at the same time. Our team, Solahart Manning/Great Lakes including Gloucester to the west, will help service and provide home-owners with their expertise in solar water heating options. Like Solahart, we have been a household name for many decades and have a reputation for quality products and workmanship, along with excellent customer care. At Mackies, we stock only the best, so the

addition of the Solahart dealership to our business was a natural extension for us, as we know their products stand up to the test of time and strict Australian manufacturing standards. Why did you become a Solahart Dealer? I decided to expand the business by offering to help cater to the ever growing demand for renewable energy technology in the region and was drawn to Solahart’s strong reputation for quality products and history as a great Aussie employer and supplier. Solahart has been manufacturing solar hot water systems in Australia since 1953 and has sold over 1 million systems worldwide. Solahart systems have been installed in places as diverse and famous as Antarctica, the Mount Everest base camp and Nelson Mandela’s private home in Houghton, South Africa. Systems are available to suit all climates and geographic locations. Simply put, installing a Solahart solar water heater will allow you to use the sun’s free energy to heat your water. With the abundance of

complete co-ordination of your corporate identity design, sign, print & web

dĞŵƉĞƌǌŽŶĞ ƵƐƚƌĂůŝĂ Θ ,ŝƚĂĐŚŝ ŝƌ ŽŶĚŝƚŝŽŶŝŶŐ tŽƵůĚ ůŝŬĞ ƚŽ ƐĂǇ Ă ďŝŐ

KE'Z dh> d/KE^ dŽ

DĂĐŬŝĞ ůĞĐƚƌŝĐ Θ ZĞĨƌŝŐĞƌĂƚŝŽŶ

graphic design studio 15 grey gum rd taree 2430 design@juzvolter.com.au s juzvolter.com.au

PROFESSIONAL SIGNAGE FOR EVERY APPLICATION

Ph 02 6552 7200 www.barriersigns.com.au $FFUHGLWHG

60 manning-great lakes focus.

&Žƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ŵĂŶǇ ǇĞĂƌƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƐƚ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƉĞŽƉůĞ ĂŶĚ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐĞƐ ŽĨ dĂƌĞĞ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƐƵƌƌŽƵŶĚŝŶŐ ĚŝƐƚƌŝĐƚƐ͘ /ƚ ŚĂƐ ďĞĞŶ Ă ƉůĞĂƐƵƌĞ ƐƵƉƉůǇŝŶŐ DĂĐŬŝĞ ůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂů Θ ZĞĨƌŝŐĞƌĂƚŝŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ Ăŝƌ ĐŽŶĚŝƚŝŽŶŝŶŐ ƐǇƐƚĞŵƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵƉŽŶĞŶƚƐ ĨŽƌ ŵĂŶǇ ǇĞĂƌƐ ŶŽǁ͕ ĂŶĚ ǁĞ ǁŝƐŚ WĂƵů Ăůů ƚŚĞ ƐƵĐĐĞƐƐ DĂĐŬŝĞ͛Ɛ ĚĞƐĞƌǀĞ ĨŽƌ ŵĂŶǇ ŵŽƌĞ ǇĞĂƌƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŵĞ͘

͞dŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ĐŽŵƉƌĞŚĞŶƐŝǀĞ ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ĚŽŵĞƐƚŝĐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂů Ăŝƌ ĐŽŶĚŝƚŝŽŶŝŶŐ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ŝŶ ƵƐƚƌĂůŝĂ͟

focusabode. Tony Watts.

ELECTRIC & REFRIGERATION

solar energy in Australia, it’s an alternative that makes sense. And it’s one that won’t impact on your quality of life. With a Solahart solar hot water heater, you’ll enjoy big energy savings. By installing a Solahart, you’ll be using the sun’s free energy to heat your water, so you can reduce your hot water energy use by a huge 50 - 90%. Imagine the savings in your energy use every year. And as energy costs continue to rise, you’ll be very glad you made the switch to solar hot water. How will a Solahart system reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions? Water heating is the biggest single contributor to an Australian household carbon footprint, accounting for an average of 25% of the typical home’s greenhouse gas emissions. By replacing a conventional electric water heater with a Solahart solar water heater, you can reduce your CO2 emissions by as much as 3 tonnes each year; that’s like taking a 4 cylinder car off the road. Why should we all consider solar? With power prices soaring and electric water heaters accounting for around 25% of house-

Moving to a solar water ce heater can redu er at your w ergy heating enio by consumpt n, so 5% -7 65 to up ajor there are mbe d savings to ng.ha by switchi

hold energy consumption, switching to solar hot water is a great way to reduce household energy bills. Moving to a solar water heater can reduce your water heating energy consumption by up to 65 - 75%, so there are major savings to be had by switching. Replacing an electric water heater with solar hot water is also one of the single biggest things families can do for the environment, saving up to around three tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year per average household; so householders have a brilliant opportunity to do something positive for the environment and their wallets at the same time. The Federal Government plans to phase out electric water heaters, which means households needing to replace an electric hot water system will be required to install an environmentally friendly alternative such as a solar water heater or heat pump, making it the perfect time now to go solar. Generous Federal Government rebates and incentives are currently available to eligible

home-owners who swap their electric water heater for a solar hot water system; however, these incentives won’t be around forever, so consumers are advised to get in quick. To find out more about a Solahart solar water heater, please call the Mackies team on 6552 2377 or call Solahart on 1300 721 914. You can also check out www.solahart.com.au for more information. The Solar grid connect industry has seen radical changes over last 3 years. What impact has this had on Mackies? Having been in the solar PV electricity industry since 2004, we have seen many changes. Prior to the 60 cents incentive, most people who installed solar were mostly motivated by emotion for the environment; these people were connected to the grid on net metering, which meant any excess electricity not consumed in the house was directed back into the grid, where the customer got the satisfaction of reducing their carbon footprint. The NSW state Government then offered 60 cents per kilowatt produced; this shifted the market to prudent people wanting to reduce

their electricity costs, along with approx. 18% return on their investment, which allowed the system to be paid off within approx. 5 years. The demand exceeded the NSW Government expectations. This high demand saw an increase in new companies attempting to get in on a new booming industry. This created many problems, not dissimilar to the insulation industry, with inexperienced installers and changing regulations, as the controlling bodies adjusted to new problems that arose. Since the NSW Government shut the door on new applications for the 60 cents incentive in September 2010, realising the high cost of maintaining the system with people on contract having to have their systems installed by July 2011, meant a continuing busy time within the industry, with most solar companies seeing a 100 to 150% increase in their businesses over the year. July 2011 saw the solar industry come to an abrupt end, with some 60 to 70% of the industry either in liquidation or shutting their doors. continued over

manning-great lakes focus 61

focusabode.

MACKIES

continued from over

What impact has this had on Mackies? Luckily, our business sustained the pain – being a multiskilled business with skill strength in the service industry, with air conditioning, refrigeration and electrical all holding their own. We have seen an increase of business from clients that purchased systems from mostly companies from outside the Mid North region; they are usually out of business or not backing up their installation or product. With the part of the system most likely to fail being the inverter, Mackies mostly sold the superior product, which is the German made SMA units. We had one new customer who had 3 x cheaper inverters fail within a

62 manning-great lakes focus.

year, which we replaced with SMA. Another client had an inverter fail, which was secured to the plastic cladding wall using 2 small screws, with the wiring taking most of the weight. A number of sites failed with water in isolating switches and junction boxes, as the product has broken down allowing water ingress. Mackies upgraded our installs, having gone above standards using ultra-violet conduit in areas exposed to the sun and quality fittings. Give our team a call if you are unsure of your installation or not getting any assistance from the company that installed your system. We offer to all our clients 2 x levels of

maintenance contract – level 1 annual panel clean and roof penetration inspection – level 2 annual panel clean and roof penetration and electrical inspection. Mackies, with solar team leader and service manager Mark Dreyer, can also assist with off grid systems with generator backup. To celebrate both your 59th year in business and kick start your Solahart dealership, you are having an Open Day. What’s happening on Saturday, March 3? Heaps is happening at our open day – something for everyone, as they say! Lots of our supplier reps will be on hand to discuss their products, so you can find out firsthand how good the systems are that we supply.

We will have hourly giveaways from 9am until the end of proceedings at 1pm. A gold coin donation sausage sizzle will be manned by members of the Tip Mountain Bikers, with all monies raised going to the ‘Emma Fund’. Face painting, balloons and lollies for children and also some great prizes will be raffled. What’s the ‘Emma Fund’, Paul? The ‘Emma Fund’ is a local initiative to raise funds to help a local girl and her family who are in need of a little assistance. Emma Jarvie is a local Tinonee girl, who on 13 January this year was diagnosed with Leukaemia. Emma is just 14 years old, the only daughter of Karyn Jarvie.

focusabode.

ELECTRIC & REFRIGERATION

Emma attends Taree Christian Community College, is a well known, popular young lady, who is proud of the community she lives in. Emma joined the local soccer team, played Futsal, is a member of the Tip Mountain Bike Riding group, Tinonee Karate and plays golf with the Forster Golf Club. Many locals know Emma through ‘Em’s Eggs’. Emma loves animals and keeps a range of pets, from dogs through to chickens. Emma used the eggs from her chickens to sell to many locals and people she came into contact with. By doing this, Emma contributes to helping her mum out here and there with the proceeds from her eggs. Sadly

though, all of Em’s pets have had to be re-homed while she is in hospital in Sydney. Since her diagnosis, Emma has been forced to stay at Randwick Children’s Hospital and undertake extensive chemotherapy. To date, it is still unclear what the future holds for this promising young lady. For those of us who have been fortunate to meet Emma or crossed paths with her along the way, we have all been impressed with her maturity and her positive outlook – all of which is rare in a girl of her age. Karyn, Emma’s mum, works tirelessly in rehabilitation at the local hospital and as a result of Emma’s diagnosis, has had

to leave her job and home and relocate to Randwick while Emma undergoes treatment – as you can imagine, this is an incredibly hard situation to be in, without the support of her friends here in the Manning Valley. The Mackie Electric and Refrigeration team invite you to join them on their open day, where raffles and sausage sizzles will be operating, with all proceeds being donated to the ‘Emma Fund’. An account has been set up at the NAB Taree, where anyone wishing to help out this lovely young girl and her mum can do so. Account – 128417737 BSB – 082-856. Thanks Paul.

Emma Jarvie.

Mark Dreyer.

the plug! Don’t miss the Solarhart Open Day on Saturday 3 March from 9am - 1pm at Muldoon Street, Taree. For more information, phone 6552 2377.

manning-great lakes focus 63

focusadvertorial.

Mayor recognises vital contribution. The Great Lakes Australia Day awards were celebrated last month, and the occasion marked the significant contribution of aged care providers in the Great Lakes local community. CS Kularoo Centre, home to over 160 senior residents and provider of employment for over 130 locals, was one of the recipients to receive the Mayor’s Award. A framed award was presented to BCS Kularoo’s Executive Care Manager, Deidre Moylan, from the Australia Day Ambassador Rev Graham Long, CEO of Wayside Chapel. Councillor McWilliams presided over the event and offered her gratitude for the dedicated work provided by the region’s aged care providers. “All the recipients of the Mayor’s Awards have one thing in common – they all care about the elderly and frail and succeed in caring with dignity, respect and comfort,” she said. The award marks over 15 years of community service at BCS Kularoo Centre, where staff and residents alike celebrated the achievement. “We were really appreciative of the recognition attributed to BCS Kularoo and to

64 manning-great lakes focus.

the entire sector throughout the area,” said Deidre. “It is an absolute privilege to care for the senior members of this comThe award s Deidre Moylan from BCS receives the award from the CEO of over 15 year ks munity, and this award Wayside Chapel, Rev. Graham Long ar m of community speaks just as much to service at BCS e. mitment to place our clients stories, and there is so much for us to learn us of the need to continlaroo Centr u K fi rst in all that we do. We from them. It’s just a different way of looking ue providing an excellent place full-time Registered at aged care,” she said. standard of care for all our Nurse Managers in each area “There’s a sad perception that seniors are a senior members.” of our facility, and that allows for burden on the community, but it just couldn’t The BCS Kularoo Centre has specialist complex care delivery to all be further from the truth. Our doors are open built a strong reputation in the area of our residents – we believe that level of care for others to see – we already have a fantastic for embracing a family atmosphere and prois essential and deserving of our great senior base of volunteers, but we’re always looking viding a lifestyle familiar with the Great Lakes community,” said Deidre. for others who are just as passionate as us, area. The centre is one of over 160 programs The BCS Kularoo Centre staff and residents working and living with our seniors.” and centres provided by the Baptist Commuhave prided themselves on sharing the ‘KulaThe BCS Kularoo Centre is located on the nity Services organisation, who also provide roo story’ to all they meet. corner of Kularoo Drive and Boundary Street in-home care and respite services to residents “This is a community of learned, wise and in Forster and provides low care, high care, of the Great Lakes community. inspiring people. Each person in our care dementia care and respite care services at the “Managing an excellent standard in care moves in with a lifetime of experiences and country homestead-style centre. really comes down to our organisation’s com-

manning-great lakes focus 65

focusinterview.

Viison Kitchens Rule! It’s our continued growth and success that reinforces the outstanding reputation Viison have for being ‘top notch’ when it comes to the kitchen industry. Few companies can lay claim to being one of the most prestigious kitchen companies in the region. With the combined staff knowledge and experience we have, it is testament that you have With the aff b made the right choice com ined stan d ge d le ow kn the instant you set ave, h e w ce n ie exper at th foot inside our t en it is testam ade the m e fabulous showroom av h you right choice thfoeot doors.

66 manning-great lakes focus.

sophisticated!

The very professional team at Viison Kitchens can totally co-ordinate your new kitchen project every step of the way, right from the initial planning stage, material and colour selections, manufacture, trades and installation. A new kitchen – whether it be a renovation or a new home – requires a team effort. And we will always listen to our clients’ ideas and offer our expert advice on what will work best in your home.

t instant youfase lous u b r u inside o . o o showroom d rs

Viison showrooms in Forster and Taree offer an airy welcoming space, showcasing a display of inspiring kitchen designs and materials. Displays start from our quality Signature laminate range, up to the impressively ‘schmick’ range of painted doors with stone and acrylic tops. Or perhaps a French provincial kitchen takes your fancy? We do them all … simple or

competition.

The Breakwall Belles is a group of friends who act as the fundraising arm for Marine Rescue NSW. The Group is inviting people to get their knitting needles out for the Cosy Up Exhibition and Competition. Breakwall Belles member, Jill Nash, fills us in on all the details … hat types of creations are people invited to make? The Breakwall Belles invite the general public to let their imagination inspire their creativity for our Cosy Up Competition, by making a cosy for tea pots, coffee plungers, hot water bottles etc. These can be knitted, crocheted, quilted, beaded or sewn. Use buttons, ribbons, bows – whatever takes your fancy. Make it whimsical or science fictional; perhaps your inspiration may come from nursery rhymes, marine themes or Australiana. Just let your imagination run riot and create something special for our competition. We already have quite a number of very interesting entries. What prizes are offered for the best entries? A prize of $100 along with a certificate will be presented to the winners of: Most Innovative, Most Creative and Most Popular. Certificates will also be awarded to Most Commended entries. The Breakwall Belles would like to thank Daniel and Sharon Romer of Gloria Jean’s in Wharf Street, Forster. Why should people support Marine Rescue NSW? Marine Rescue NSW Forster Tuncurry Base is comprised completely of volunteers. The Base operates from Seal Rocks to Crowdy Head, the whole of Wallis Lake and its rivers. The radio room is manned 24/7 all year, monitoring for any distress calls or calls for assistance from anyone on the water. The Base has 2 rescue boats, each manned by crews who are on call 24/7 on a weekly roster, responding to calls at sea or assistance on Wallis Lake. Marine Rescue is available to anyone going boating by ‘logging on’ with the Base. Once logged on, they can be assured that Marine Rescue will watch out for their boat until they return to land and if anything happens, then Marine Rescue will respond to ensure the safety of all at sea or on the lake. Anybody can call the Base at any hour to check the latest weather forecast, current local conditions and tide times. Already in January 2012, there were 14 calls

for assistance. While Marine Rescue NSW Headquarters receives some funding from the State Government, it is not sufficient to cover all the expenses of maintaining the Marine Rescue Bases along the coast. Each Base incurs the same expenses as any business with telephone, electricity, water and rent; they do not receive any discounts for these services, and there are also the ongoing cost of maintaining the 2 rescue boats and the Base. This is why we rely on support from the general public. We need this support, because Marine Rescue is a volunteer organisation, and therefore we do not charge for any of the rescue services we provide. The only way, except for some grants, the Base can raise money to continue providing this service is by public support. The Base also relies heavily relies on the yearround fundraising activities of the Breakwall Belles to help keep the Base and boats running. How can people enter the competition? It only costs $5 to enter your cosy. Entries must be received at the Marine Rescue Base, Southern Breakwall, Forster before 4pm on Wednesday, April 4, 2012. All entries remain the property of Marine Rescue NSW and will be offered for sale during the exhibition. Exhibitors may purchase their own entry for $2.50 prior to the exhibition. For more information, please call Sue on 6554 6108 or Margaret on 6555 3230. When and where is the Cosy up Competition on display? Our Cosy Up Competition/Exhibition is being held over the Easter weekend, from April 6 - April 9, 2012 at the Marine Rescue Base, Southern Breakwall, Forster. It is open each day from 10am to 4pm. The Breakwall Belles (fundraisers for Marine Rescue) will be selling morning and afternoon tea/coffee and cakes. There will also be raffles and a craft stall. Entry to the exhibition is by gold coin donation. Cosies will be available for sale to the public. Thanks Jill.

manning-great lakes focus 67

&200(5&,$/ 5(6,'(17,$/