Feature Story y
COFFS COAST
Glen Booth
January y 2012 // issue 16
JOHN TAINSH A local woodworker who creates beautiful timber masterpieces.
BILLY WHITE Actor, director, composer and film maker, this talented young local’s career is blossoming.
I N S I D E 16
inside this issue.
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coffs coast focus.
furniture & homewares
editor's note note.
kim gould.
editor. T from the
Welcome to the January issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS. he turn of a new year is always an exciting time. For me it represents new beginnings and a clean slate. It’s a time to recognise all the things we managed to tick off our bucket lists in the past 12 months, and it gives us a chance to set some new goals to work towards.
Jewellers), Melanie Jenkins (MJ Accountants) and Anne Blair (Coffs Harbour Toyota & Hyundai). You can read their stories, and those of many more local women, in our special feature which begins on page 40. And a quick thank you to C.ex Coffs for letting us use their club for our cover photo shoot!
I’ve got a few goals for the new year – get in to shape, travel more, be more patient … the usual thing. But I’ve also got some professional goals for myself and FOCUS. We want our publication to continue growing, expanding and improving each month. And I personally need to learn to balance my work and personal life better.
IN THIS ISSUE Don’t worry … we haven’t forgotten about the men! On page 4 you’ll meet game fishing expert, Glen Booth. Woodworker, John Tainsh, tells us about his hobby on page 9, young actor Billy White shares his story with us on page 38, and we catch up with veteran sailor Paul D’Olier before he races in Pittwater to Coffs (page 36).
As I don’t yet have children, I’m fortunate that I don’t have too many things to juggle. I haven’t quite reached the stage of Sarah Jessica Parker in that movie I Don’t Know How She Does It, but many businesswomen have a huge task of juggling children, partners, health, housekeeping, study, work … the list goes on! Which brings me to this month’s front cover … ON THE COVER This month we dedicate our issue to Women in Business. There are so many fantastic ladies in our area who do such a great job of balancing their career and home lives, that we thought they deserved a bit of recognition. Our cover girls this month are Kristie Atchison (Blush Make-up & Beauty Studio), Pip Gordon (Chandler McLeod), Deborah Mauger (Parrys
focus C O F F S C OA S T
Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.
EDITOR’S PHOTO This month’s landscape photo featured above is courtesy of Daniel Tran. If you’d like to see your photography published in FOCUS in 2012, email samples of your work to kim@focusmag. com.au FINAL SAY “New Year’s Resolution: to tolerate fools more gladly, provided this does not encourage them to take up more of my time.” – James Agate.
Kim Gould – Editor kim@focusmag.com.au
contacts. EDITOR: Kim Gould kim@focusmag.com.au
ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au
SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment
ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au
michael@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au
JUNIOR DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au
JUNIOR DESIGNER: Zac Wright zac@focusmag.com.au
SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe 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. Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
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ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Kylie Soultanian kylie@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com
COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins reg@focusmag.com.au jo@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com
coffs coast focus 3
focusinterview.
GAME FISHING
GLEN BOOTH
The Complete Guide To Game Fishing.
Glen Booth started game fishing in 1979 and has recently published a comprehensive book on the sport – The Complete Guide To Game Fishing. He introduces us to this exciting sport ...
W
hat are the differences between normal fishing and game fishing? With game fishing, you’re mostly catching pelagic species. That includes Marlin, Tuna, Sharks, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, etc. They’re usually very big and very fast. There’s an organisation called the International Game Fishing Association, and they’re the umbrella organisation that sets the rules for game fishing. There are certain constraints and rules you must follow; for example, there are different line breaking strains and once the fish is on the line, no-one else can help you until the very end. It’s all about the ethics of fishing, so that the fish has got a better than even chance of getting away. These days, game fishing is mostly tag and release – unless it proves to be something that’s particularly nice to eat, and they get to come on a boat ride! Tell us about tagging. Once the fish is unhooked, it’s tagged with a fisheries tag. The tag will have a number on it and a card that corresponds is great be- with it. We let the fish go, and the card ou get to haveis entered into the database at NSW ke and eat it Fisheries. If someone else catches that ou recapture a h a tag in it it’s fish, they see the tag, take it out, ring the fisheries, and tell them they’ve caught citing. a fish with ‘this’ tag number. Fisheries will look it up on the database and can see that it was caught in Coffs Harbour 9 months ago, and it has swum 400 km south in that time. Tagging is great, because you get to have your cake and eat it too. If you recapture a fish with a tag in it, it’s very exciting. You tag all these fish, and off they go – but it’s a big ocean out there, and you wonder where they go. We’ve also done a bit of PSAT tagging in this area, which is Pop-Up Satellite tagging. Basically, it’s a data recorder that’s a little bit bulkier than the normal tags. You tag the fish in the same manner as usual, and let it go. The tags have a tether on them, which once it’s in contact with saltwater, an electrical current starts and it eats through the tether – and then the tag pops
4 coffs coast focus.
to the surface after a period of time. It’s got a little aerial on it and it sends the data to a satellite, then someone’s computer somewhere in the world will go ‘BEEP’, and all of a sudden there’s everything that fish has done since you let it go. The tag can tell you things like where it’s swum, how fast it’s swum … it generates so much data, that they can’t actually Tagging is great, t analyse it all with the because you geke ca ur people they have at their to have yo If you disposal. But it’s just nice and eat it too. Fishing. Tell us about recapture a fishit’s to know that when you that ... with a tag in it, let the fish go, that it Well, there’s a guy g. tin ci very ex does actually survive. called Peter Goadby, So I guess it’s as much who was the guru of game about monitoring the fish as fishing writers. He wrote two it is catching them? game fishing books that we called Yeah ... everyone is fascinated by the ‘The Bible’ and ‘The Bible Two’. science of it all. We know so little, and for The first one was Big Fish in Blue Water, many years the only research into game which came out in the ‘70s, and the fishing in Australia was pretty much being second was Saltwater Game Fishing, which done by recreational anglers who were was 20 odd years ago. We still refer to tagging fish. Nowadays, it’s a bit bigger them all the time, but they’re pretty dated, deal. and I thought, “No-one has done a game What sort of species do we get around fishing book anywhere in the world for this area? over 20 years”. Black, Blue and Striped Marlin. Yellowfin So I asked a few people to see if it Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Kingfish. We get would be worth the effort, and they all Sailfish, Broadbill Swordfish, Big Eyed Tuna thought it should work. I’ve written for … most of the game fish are found here in fishing magazines before, so some of Coffs. The species do vary with the seasons the stuff in the book had already been though … winter is a tougher time to fish. published – there’s a chapter that had You’ve recently published your own already been done! book: The Complete Guide to Game Then I got Alistair McGlashan on board
to supply a bit of stuff, and it just went from there. I started seriously writing in November 2010 and finished on 1 February 2011. The few people who have seen it said I didn’t leave anything out, which was a concern at first; but overall, it’s quite comprehensive. The idea was that, while it’s a bit of a coffee table book, it would still be something that you’ll actually learn something from. It’s something that people will refer back to. We wanted to produce something that beginners would find useful, but there are also a few things in there that guys who’ve been fishing for a long time could call upon as well. Thank you Glen.
get the book. The Complete Guide to Game Fishing is available at all good bookstores.
9.
inside this
John Tanish John Tainsh is a local woodworker who creates beautiful timber masterpieces as a hobby. FOCUS talks to John about his passion for timber …
Issue 16 - January 2012
usual suspects.
the
Paul D’Olier A veteran sailor, Paul is very much at home on the ocean wave. He specialises in teaching all aspects of yachting.
58.
36.
Sawtell Cinema Sawtell First Avenue Cinema has a colourful history and still proudly displays some historic elements, such as manual film projection. Cinema Manager, Col Brissett, shares with us the unique story of this quaint venue.
8. what’s on for January 16. eat featuring local restaurants 26. social scene with Carole Beros 34. star guide with Terri
60. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast
63. business voice with the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce
No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @
www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
coffs coast focus 5
focuseditorial.
focuseditorial.
A wonderful NEW maternity store has opened in Hi Tech Drive, Toormina.
Dynamic Ballr m
DUO Last year FOCUS ran a story on ballroom dancers, David and Irena Brooks. Well, it appears they’ve done it again ... they were recently crowned Australian Champions for the fourth consecutive year!
ast weekend saw Coffs Harbour’s competitors looking to make their dreams very own Australian Ballroom come true over yours.” Dancing Champions, David and Irena said: “Even though we have had Irena Brooks, travel to Melbourne to a fairly busy year dancing at a number of compete in the 66th Australian Dancesport prestigious events, next year is shaping up Championships held at the Hisense Arena. to be an even busier year. We are working The Championships are seen as the on our dance program now for 2012, premier event of the year, with over 1,200 which includes lessons, travel, training, competitors competing to be crowned competitions, family and full-time work. number one in the country. “I am thrilled to have won this prestigious For the past three years, David and Irena event again this year, and what makes it so have held the Australian Masters Two much more fulfilling is the fact that David Open New Vogue Championship and I train without having a coach and have remained at the ready. We virtually do it undefeated in this style all on our own. We have a since winning the title for great working relationship s ip sh on The Champi r ie a third consecutive year and communicate very em pr e th as are seen , with ar ye e at the Championships effectively, leaving little th of t en ev titors last year. room for disagreement, over 1,200 compebe competing to During the year they just looking at solutions in e r on crowned numbe have won the NSW Open to areas of our dancing y. tr the coun Championship, Queensland which may not be Open Championship, working.” Tasmanian Open Championship, David and Irena said “they The South Pacific Championships, are grateful for the fantastic support The National Capital Championships, The Star they get from the local community and Championships and the East Coast National their fabulous sponsors, Etienne Lawyers of Dancesport Classic, where David & Irena Sydney.” danced in the beautifully refurbished Sydney They are over the moon to have once Town Hall Main Ballroom. again taken out first place and the Australian David said: “With having so much success Championship in Open New Vogue and are throughout the year, the pressure was really happy with their fifth placing in the Open on to step up to the mark for a fourth Standard event. Australian Title. While at the Championships, Their competitors are not too happy about you could feel the intensity of the other their plans not to retire in the near future.
Maternity M t it W Wear. Manager Leah Casy is in store and waiting to meet ‘mums to be’ and offer her service in fitting you out in stylish new maternity wear. Lillian Hope has a great range of high quality, fashionable garments, sourced from international and Australian stockists. Just some of the labels available now are: Olian from Florida USA; also from the USA is NicoleMichelleMaternity, Lilly B – Australia, Fertile Mind – basics and Quack and 2chix. All of these labels are featured in popular pregnancy magazines monthly, such as Cosmo Pregnancy. To ensure that clients can feel individual with their choice of garment, Leah only stocks a maximum of two size runs per style. Available for summer is stunning Spanish maternity swimwear label, Pez D’Or.
Pez D’Or has been offering its clients avant-garde and exclusive swimwear since the 1920s. Their swimwear is made in Barcelona, which is renowned for its rich tradition in textiles and are put through stringent quality controls, to ensure they are only the highest quality. A woman absolutely blossoms when she is having a baby and deserves to look good and feel great!
L
6 coffs coast focus.
meet a
local.
Meet Graeme & Amy Wright of E Degrees Clothing and Evolve Clothing Co. How long have you been on the Coffs Coast? Around 27 years.
What’s the best thing about your job?
What’s you favourite thing about this area? Location, location, location! It’s such a beautiful part of the world and not far from capital cities. A lot of people take our town for granted; we don’t! Gorgeous coastline and a wonderful climate – can’t complain.
but otherwise I’d have to say it’s just nice
Describe your typical day. How long have you got? In short, we both spend 6 days of the week working, whether it be at home or in the shops. Sundays are our favourite day – family day: no work, just play!
Well, the freebies from our Reps are great, being your own boss. What keeps you motivated? It’s that customer who comes in when you’re having a bad day and tells you how much they love the store. The look, the feel, the brands. It just makes us realise that all our hard work is appreciated! What does the future hold? Hopefully a holiday!
coffs coast focus 7
COFFS COAST
19
12
what’s
3+4 Jan W H AT ’S O N A RO U N D T H E R E G I O N // JA N UA RY 2 012
School
Holiday
Jan
fun!
Festival Of Sail
Get Rid Of The Kids Sunday Sessions Sunday Sessions are back at Aanuka Beach Resort due to popular demand. Kick back, relax and get in the mood for fun loving summer days with quality food, cheeky beverages and locally grown entertainment. Where Aanuka Beach Resort. When Every Sunday 3pm - 6pm. For more info Call 6652 7555.
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Just because they’re called school holidays doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some time off too. Jr. Superstar Sports Super Fun Sessions are the fully SUPERVISED all WEATHER all FUN day out for your child. Bookings are essential; prices start from $10. Where Link Indoor Leisure Centre, 600B Hogbin Dr, Toormina. When Every weekday these school holidays. More info www.jrsuperstarsports.com.au or call (02) 6658 7188.
Blue Juice Having just released their third album, Company, and having abused the airwaves for months with their devotional ode, Act Yr Age, BLUEJUICE are preparing the tour van and are ready to roll with their first tour in ages. Where The Plantation Hotel. When Thursday 12 January. For more info Contact the venue on 6652 3855.
Come along and join in the fun at this giant sandmodelling competition. Enjoy movies on the beach, fireworks, prizes and giveaways. Share in 1,000 Park Beach Plaza Shopping Dollars. Food and drink available at the festival. When 3 & 4 January. Where Jetty Beach, Coffs Harbour. More info: Visit www.pittwatertocoffs.com.au
focusinterview.
John
H
ow did you initially discover your woodworking talents? Well, I retired early and was having a holiday house built. I needed to build some fences etc. so I bought a Triton work bench. Some time later, I moved to Queensland, where I ran into a friend of mine who was a woodworker – and he said I was pretty good at it. So he suggested I talk to Triton and become a Triton Demonstrator … so I did. Being a Triton Demonstrator meant I worked at different Bunnings stores every Saturday morning along the Gold Coast. I demonstrated the equipment and its uses, basically as a hobby. Eventually, I bought more and more equipment and became more proficient in woodworking. Have you had any formal training? No, I’m basically self taught – other than going to a few specialist lessons with Neil Scobie and John Van der Kolk here in Coffs Harbour. You’re a member of the Mid North Coast Woodworkers club here, aren’t you? Yes, I am. I was the Publicity Officer on the committee, but in the last 12 months I’ve resigned from that post. I’m still active in the club though … I still give lessons and offer for members to come to my workshop. The club meets on the fourth Friday of every month at John Paul College, in the woodworking section. Membership to the Club is $35 a year. It’s not an expensive group to be a member of, and visitors are welcome. There’s a lot of knowledge and expertise in
John Tainsh is a local woodworker who creates beautiful timber masterpieces as a hobby. FOCUS talks to John about his passion for timber …
I don’t invest in lots of timber if it’s not going to sell, but if someone wants something large, I’ll make it.
“
”
the town, and people in the Club are prepared to pass on that knowledge to you. The Club does do some weekend courses, and we have a number of different demonstrators who come and present to us. So do you teach? Well, I do teach occasionally for some of the members of the club. I really don’t teach as a professional. You’re more of a mentor then? Yes. I’ve taught a number of ladies to get started in woodwork, and they have been very happy to take home a simple box for their first effort. My very patient wife Suzanne has provided the coffee and biscuits. So, I’ve mentored people basically just to promote woodwork and show that it’s a fun and creative thing to do. What’s your specialty? I specialise in making jewellery boxes. I’ve got 13 grand kids … there are 7 girls, and when they turn 13 they all get a big jewellery box for their birthday. I can create pieces of any size – as big as coffee tables and outside benches. I don’t invest in lots of timber if it’s not going to sell, but if someone wants something large, I’ll make it. I do sell some of my work at the annual woodworking show that the Club holds at the Cavanbah Hall around Easter, and I put my work up for sale at The Butterfly House as well. I am a member of the Sawtell Art Group and display my work there too. What sort of timbers do you like to work with?
The more exotic, the better! I’ve used a lot of local timbers like Camphor Laurel, Rosewood and Cedar, but I do like the Western Desert timbers like Gidgee, Lancewood and Needlewood. These are all hard acacias that come from the North Queensland/Darwin area. So when I travel up there, I have been known to come back with a caravan full of timbers that I’ve picked up along the way! What is it about wood that you’re attracted to? I just like the way that it can be finished – especially the harder woods. You can polish them up and make them look like marble! This emphasises the beautiful grain and texture in the wood. You can make some great pieces of art with wood, from structured to sculptured … that’s what I like. What challenges do you face in your work? Making sure you don’t cut off your fingers! Safety is always an issue, so you have to be as careful as possible – especially when you’re working with big machines. What’s the easiest way for people to view and commission your work? As I mentioned, some of it is on display at The Butterfly House, but I also have some images online. People can call me directly to commission work – (02) 6658 8859 or email at tainsh48@bigpond.com Thanks John.
coffs coast focus 9
focusreview
with Nicci Seccombe
FIRST AID KIT I know what I will be spending the $30 my nanna sent me in a Christmas card on! Wow … what an amazing album!
KATz The Coffs
On January 29, Swingin’ been so welcoming. Upcoming Coast is Sundayz – Launch Pad is set swing sessions at the popular headed for a to bring back the feisty ‘40s Greenhouse Tavern have received time warp! and ‘50s, with a dance floor a lot of interest, with newcomers swinging to the sounds of 10 and devotees alike sure to trip the piece swing band The WellSwung light fantastic in no time at all. Daddies, as well as absolute classic It’s all part of the swing craze that’s really back cars – all in outrageous vintage style. 2 AIR FM to the future. Thanks to the Greenhouse Tavern will be broadcasting live from The Greenhouse and Coffs Coast Swing Katz, entry is free ... so Tavern from 2.30pm and are sure to pay special get dolled up and help the Coffs Coast party like attention to the girls and guys from My Sister’s it’s 1942! Wardrobe, overflowing with their trademark vintage flair!
the plug!
Swingin’ Sundayz is the brainchild of the Coffs Coast Swing Katz, who wanted to launch their 2012 dance lessons with a bang and give something back to the region that’s
For more information, go to ccsk.com.au or check them out on YouTube and like them on Facebook!
First Aid Kit is made up of 2 sisters, Johanna and Klara Soderberg. Born and bred in Sweden, these vocally talented sisters have set the bar this year when it comes to rich harmonies and folk sounding melodies that take influence from the likes of Fleet Foxes, Joanna Newsome and, one of my favourites, Lykke Li. A YouTube video of them covering Fleet Foxes’ Tiger Mountain Peasant Song was never intended as anything more than idle play, but has unintentionally brought them nothing but success, fortune and fame. Their debut album The Lion’s Roar was recorded and produced by Indie legend Mike Mogis, formally of the Indie folk band ,Bright Eyes.
airplay on Triple J, which coincidentally is where I first heard the band. I’m a closet Country fan, so my ears instantly pricked up when I heard these girls. Why? Well, it’s the simplicity that makes it so good. You don’t need complex arrangements, synthesisers, wailing guitars, or pounding drums to make good music. Klara’s voice is just marvellous, and Johanna’s voice is the perfect complement to it. Anything that would detract from their voices would spoil the whole thing. Sweden is not only renowned for their meatballs, but now their First Aid Kit is as well.
Their debut single, which is the title track on the album, has received plenty of
focusreview.
rating.
with Linda Heiniger
A Visit from the Goon Squad. W H AT ’S I N
with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s
‘Tis the season to enjoy the cherry! Such a w wonderful o ond nder nd deerfu f l ve vversatile vers rrsatile an and nd sely to to its ow wn litt ttle juicy fruit, it’s tart yet sweet, juicy, stuck loosely own little pitti pit ittt ng g ccompetiti t on o s, projectile ... not that I advocate cherry pip sp spitting competitions, eerr ... n o-one ne is but on a lazy summer afternoon enjoying a b beer no-one accountable. vers rsattililit ity. y. TThe he It’s juicy deliciousness is only matched by thee ve versatility. oll (e ol (esp spec ecia iallyy wh w e en cherry makes a delicious tart, or fills a spring rroll (especially when hav ave yo you u ev ver ttri ried ed accompanied by chocolate and coconut), butt h have ever tried using it to accompany your lamb roast? che heerr rrie ies, s, tthe h n A lamb rolled up with cracked black pepper and cherries, then in ng wi w th tthe h slowly roasted, all the additional cherry juice meldin melding with t, ccan an b bee succulent lamb juices, the juice which, when caught, colat ate forr a tr rul ulyy thickened with some shaved dark, dark chocolate truly unique treat ... droooool. att ccherries herries One quick tidbit that few people realise is that rriies es. contain anthocyanins, the red pigment in berries. duc uce Cherry anthocyanins have been shown to reduce aree pain and inflammation in mice. Anthocyaninss ar now own n also potent antioxidants, which have been known vel elss. to assist with triglycerides and cholesterol levels. ck, so Making cherries a delicious AND healthy snack, itting ... many added benefits ... as well as the pip spitting
MORE
To continue reading about the benefits and uses of cherries, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com
10 coffs coast focus.
What do an anarchic Punk Rock band, a kleptomaniac, a movie star, a genocidal general and a hirsute music producer have in common? Jennifer Egan’s 2011 Pulitzer Prize winning work, A Visit from the Goon Squad, takes the reader on a riotous journey through the lives of a disparate group of seemingly unconnected characters. Their experiences, actions and lives intersect and connect over the ensuing decades in unexpected ways. Their stories are propelled from the wildness of teenage years to the insecurity of middle age and then to the period of self-reflection upon life’s purpose as they age; that is, for those who have survived self-destruction. Egan’s novel, however, does not flow in a straight line, but jolts between the present, future and past in a series of vignettes told from the perspective of each character – ultimately forming a cohesive narrative that simultaneously shocks and intrigues. This work is much more than an incisive examination of contemporary American society. Amusing, sad and often profoundly moving, it is also a refreshingly modern discourse on the nature of the human condition. Written with a sense of the deconstructed style of postmodern literature, one chapter is even narrated via a printed Power-Point presentation. In acknowledging Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time, the author sets the tone for her theme of how memories affect our lives and how the ‘goon’ of time is sometimes an unwelcome visitor that highlights our own unavoidable mortality.
RRP $19.99; our price $18.99. Available from: The Book Warehouse Coffs Harbour and The Book Warehouse Toormina.
WIN A COPY OF A HE VISIT FROM THE D GOON SQUAD
focus
with We have 2 copies es of this book to give away. To win, simply tell us in 25 words or less who your favourite author is and why. Post your answer, along with your name and contact details to: FOCUS Book Giveaway, PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 . Entries close 14 January 2012.
coffs coast focus 11
focusinterview.
Von Walsh and her daughter Wendy Mason are a couple of golfing gurus, having hit 7 hole-in-ones between them! FOCUS chats to them about what they love about the sport.
H
ow long have you been playing golf? Von: For 50 years. I started out in Inverell. Did you join the Sawtell Golf Club as soon as you moved here? Von: No, I’d joined it before then. My husband and I were Country Members for 2 or 3 years before we moved here, at $12 a year. Wendy, did you play when you were growing up? Wendy: I played at school and with my brother, myself and a couple of friends, but we only really played so we could go away to school visits! I stopped playing when I was about 15 and discovered boys were more interesting! Then I took it up again when we were living here and my son wanted to play. Mum encouraged me, of course, and gave me clubs, hats and everything that you could possibly need to play golf. What is it about golf that you enjoy so much? Von: The friendship. Exercise too, but mainly the friendship. Wendy: It’s challenging yourself too. That’s what any individual sport is about. You can go out one week and have a really good game, then the next week you can play really badly! So it’s always about pushing yourself to do well ... not necessarily to win or beat anybody else, but just to push yourself. It’s a challenge every time you step on the golf course to do better than you’ve done before. Von: I’ve been told if you don’t go out to win, you’re kidding. It doesn’t upset you if you don’t win, but that’s your goal – to win. And by winning, you’re playing well. Wendy: You can win and play lousy too! It just depends what your competition is like. So what’s the secret to a good game of golf? Von: Patience and practice. Wendy: Yeah, you’ve really got to practice. Get out in the back yard and chip the ball around, so that you’re confident to see a ball and hit it properly. I saw a piece on TV on the Golf Show. There was a young girl just starting out, and she had a round of golf with a group of lady professionals. She was being interviewed afterwards and they asked her what she got out of playing with the professionals … she said the one thing she got out of it is that every single shot is as important as the last one. So if you hit one shot and you think you’ve done really well, the next one is just as important. But if you hit a bad shot, you’ve got to forget that one and get on to the next one. And that’s where patience comes in. Von: I know when I was first learning, we were lucky, because we had a vacant block and a park
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coffs coast focus.
behind us. We used to hit out of our backyard into the park. We used to have competitions out of the backyard with my husband, my son and I. Wendy had moved by then, and I think that’s what has helped me a lot with my golf … patience and practice. Do you still play together? Wendy: I dragged her out a couple of weeks ago to play. Von: I’m only playing 9 holes now. I’m 83 years old, and I’ve been playing for 50 years … Wendy and I used to play in the Foursomes Championship. I don’t know how many times we were runners up in that! It was a great surprise when we started winning that! Wendy: I’ve also won the mixed Foursomes Championships four times with a male partner. Von: Yeah, I used to win Since doing that before Wendy started, this interview, her and I played with my son. I Wendy has hit -one. won it a few times in Inverell second hole-inns with my husband too. Congratulatio Wendy: The foursomes is Wendy! a hard game. If you and I were just about every Monday playing together, I’d hit off the at a different club. We have tee, you’d hit the next ball, I’d hit Mid North Coast and we have a the one after that, and so on … so if I Handicap Penance as well, and I play hit a bad one and put it in the trees, you’ve in both of those. There’s a penance season got to get it out! that goes for about 3 or 4 months of the year. I hear you’ve hit a couple of hole-in-ones … Wendy, didn’t you win a Country Medal? Von: I’ve hit 5 – one at Sawtell and four in Wendy: Yes, I won a NSW Medal a couple of Inverell. I’ll tell you about this one … there were years ago. You’re selected from the club as having bunkers all around the hole, and I hit the edge of the best medal rounds of the year, and you go a bunker and shot it sideways into the hole! There down to Sydney and you play all the other country was another hole where the ball didn’t fall in the members. I played at Bonnie Doon, and won the hole until I walked on the green! You remember state medal – which was really exciting. There’s only those ones! one other person from Sawtell who’s ever won it. It Have you hit any, Wendy? was a real thrill to play and win that. Wendy: I’ve had one at Sawtell. Mum used to And Von, we hear you won the B-Grade say to me: “You’d better hurry up and get one!” So Championships here a few years ago … I’ve got one! I’m working on another one! Von: Yes, I did. Von: There are 15 hole-in-ones in my family. My Wendy: They were all very surprised that an husband had 4, I had a partner after him who also older person won it, rather than all the young ones had 4. Wendy and Chris both had one, and I had a coming through. Sometimes the older ones are grandson who had one at school! He was only 15 coming down and the young ones are coming up at the time. … so she knocked them all off! She also won our What handicaps are you playing on at the Spring Tournament. moment? Von: I won that two years running. And I think Wendy: I’m on 14. about four years I won something … golf shoes and Von: We don’t talk about my handicap! I used to golf bags. be on 12 and was on that for about 15 years. But as It’s great that you win prizes, like shoes, that you get older, your handicap isn’t as good ... so we you can put towards your game, isn’t it? won’t talk about that! Von: Yes, and you know what? In 50 years I’ve Wendy, you play in the penance team too? never bought a golf ball! I’ve won them all. Well, Wendy: Yeah. During penance season, you play when I first started, my husband said I had to break
my handicap before I got a new ball. And he would play with a ball one week, and then he’d give it to me to play with. So I had to break my handicap before I got a new ball to play with, and then I started winning them anyway! Wendy: I don’t think I’ve ever bought one either. Or a golf tee, and I’ve only ever bought one pair of golf shoes, because you win that stuff! It’s better to win something like that than two dozen glass bowls. You win money now too, and that pays for fees, clothes, etc. Tell us about the beginners programs here at Sawtell Golf Club. Wendy: They have a really good beginners group here on a Monday. Last year I walked with them, not so much to teach them to play golf, but to teach them the rules and the etiquette of golf. I didn’t do it this year, because every time it was on I had a penance day, but I’ve got my name down to work with the beginners in 2012. I enjoy that. If you see them doing something dramatically wrong, you can correct their stance and that sort of thing, but it’s really there to encourage them. Golf Clubs are dying and unless young people get out there and play, the clubs are just going to die out. So we need to encourage the younger people to play. There’s a really good juniors program at the club too on a Sunday morning and Friday afternoon. There’s a little 3-hole course at Sawtell for the kids, which is fabulous. The kids are the future of the golf clubs. Thanks Von and Wendy.
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focusinterview.
focusinterview.
Camp Creative 2012 produces record numbers for the festival ...
Gillian
Camp Patron and Camp Creative’s Vice President, Gillian Helfgott shares what the festival means to her & her husband David.
m entor their arts and crafts. mentor For most people people, it is an opportunity to try so something completely different, and it can be lif life-changing. In the relaxed Camp environment, pe people gain confidence in skills they’ve never be before explored. The tutors give generously of th their time and experience to provide the means to pursue or find a new passion. ellingen’s premier summerr school, scho sc hool oll,, Lucky for late bookers, there are still a few C ti h reached h d Camp C Creative, has places available in some of the dance, drama record numbers this year, with and kids courses. over 1,200 people participating in The camp is available to people of all ages and the five-day event. will be held January 9 to 13. Now in its 26th year, Camp Exclusive to ‘Campers’ ... Creative has provided the This year’s special events for environment for thousands of to ve participants include a Celebrity ha You don’t in g creative spirits to grow. in at ip Concert featuring Camp ic rt be pa be Each January, families, Creative Patron David Camp Creative to ’s groups of friends and part of Thursdayot to Helfgott, with tutors Mark a ‘n Street Party. It is t where individuals flock to the Walton and Sunday Lucia, be missed’ evenes alive extraordinarily beautiful David Goodwin and up and m Bellingen co g, in ng si , town of Bellingen to meet ic us coming local talents, Liam m with g. like-minded people in a dancing and eatin Mallinson and Luara Karlsonrelaxed environment, where Carp. they can gain confidence and The Grand Finale Concert on explore their creativity. Friday evening is a spectacular conclusion, This year’s camp has attracted families from showcasing the achievements and diversity of as far away as Switzerland, Canada, France the performing arts groups from the camp. and Korea. Camp Creative’s President, Peter Open to the public Nance, describes this year’s line up as the most You don’t have to be participating in Camp comprehensive in the Camp’s history. Creative to be part of Thursday’s Street Party. “The aim is to provide something for all, It is a ‘not to be missed’ event where Bellingen both for families and for individuals. The fivecomes alive with music, singing, dancing day package is designed to mix learning with and eating. And if you’re wondering if Camp entertainment, with the emphasis on fun and in Creative is right for you in 2013, from noon an environment of shared encouragement. Friday you have the opportunity to wander With 26 years of experience behind us, we around the campus, where the creative have seen what works and have developed achievements of the week are on display. You our programs around participants’ needs and can also watch the Young People’s Concert, requests. We want everyone to leave at the where the performances include Spaghetti end of the 5 days with a sense of achievement Circus, drama and singing. and the resolve to continue with their creative The easy way to see what’s on offer is to go pursuits.” With over 60 courses covering a wide to www.campcreative.com.au, where you’ll find range of interests, it has once again drawn some detailed information on all courses and tutors of our creative world’s top talents to tutor and and events. 14 coffs coast focus.
ell us about your involvement with Camp Creative. I’m the Vice President, but more importantly, my husband David and I are patrons of Camp Creative … we’re the figure heads of the camp. Because David is a famous concert pianist and is so active in the musical world, it’s nice to be associated with the camp in this way. David, of course, performs at the celebrity concert. He’s one of the stars of that, and he loves sharing his music with all the campers. We have been involved with Camp Creative for 21 years now. We hear that Bryce Courtenay is also a festival patron …
Yes, he is. He comes about every second year to take a class – but his health hasn’t been so good of late, so I think it’s 2 years since he’s been. He was a great friend of Bill Lockley, who was the founder of the camp. Bill was the one with the original ideas and dedication … he did more to promote the arts around Bellingen than anyone else ever has. So why is Camp Creative so important for you to be involved with? I think the more we can do to help people get in touch with their creativity, the better. Usually creativity requires activity, and people who are active are more fulfilled in their own lives. You find someone like Chris Stewart, for example. She’s now a leading ceramic/glass tutor and practitioner with us. She came to Camp Creative as a student, and now she’s lecturing overseas and has books published in America. Camp Creative enabled her to get the confidence to move forward. She comes and lectures at the Camp, and her class fills up within about 5 minutes. The news is that this year’s camp has record numbers … It has. Bellingen High School will be absolutely filled to its capacity, and we’re also using the primary school for Bollywood and some of the writing courses, because it’s just bursting at the seams at the high school. Without the Principal of Bellingen High School, Rob Stockton, and his incredible enthusiasm, his role on the committee,
the work that he puts in through the event, we couldn’t really run the camp. What are the major things you’re looking forward to from this year’s Camp Creative? The Aboriginal courses! Last year we had paper making, but this year we’re having The Dreaming. We’re very much on Aboriginal land here, and I’m particularly thrilled about this course. Also, Scott Murray is going to speak about the transition from white film makers to now hearing the indigenous voice of the Aboriginal people themselves in films. So with The Dreaming and sharing some of the very interesting original films coming from the indigenous population, I think that will be a very interesting and heartwarming time. Obviously the courses fill up pretty quickly each year, so is there room for expansion in the coming years? The problem is if you get bigger, then you can’t fit everyone into the multi-purpose hall at Bellingen High School for the grand finale. We don’t ever want to just aim for size; we want quality courses and a sense of sharing. Once you outgrow the hall, then you can’t have that same sharing – so I think we’re pretty much to capacity now. Of course, it is wonderfully good for the town … it generates a lot of business and brings a lovely atmosphere. So the advice is for people to get in really early and book their places at the camp? Yes. Just go on to the website and become a member, or get on the mailing list. Courses come out in late June/early July, and some courses do fill up in a couple of days. But you can get on a mailing list and see all the courses that are available on the website. We still have places in some courses for 2012, so if people ring Robbie Spence (the Co-ordinator) and have a chat to her about last minute places, they might be able to fit in to something. Thank you Gillian.
more info. visit www.campcreative.com.au
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Coffs Coast
Cover Dish Pan seared Snapper fillet with vine ripe cherry Roma tomato and pumpkin salad and an orange miso sauce from Latitude 30.
eat. Dining Guide is now available on the App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat
eat. Wholly Cow Café The Coffs Coast’s newest and exciting dining experience is here! Wholly Cow in Sawtell offers burgers and coffee the likes of which have not been seen before. Our burgers are made with local produce, all their ingredients are made in house, and they’re served on organic sourdough buns – ‘burgers how they should taste’. Our coffee is fairtrade, organic and roasted locally in Bello. We also have a great selection of sweet treats for those lazy mornings or afternoon catch ups ... or if you’re in a hurry, order your coffee from the street through our ‘coffee window’.
Bluebottles Brasserie Bluebottles is open 7 days a week for all day breakfast and now due to popular demand, we’re extending our lunch hours to cater for late lingering lunches after a long summer day. We’ll be open each day from 6.30am – 7pm and under the guidance of head chef Gerard Geerligs, we offer superb breakfast and lunch choices in a relaxed alfresco atmosphere. Our wind-down menu in the afternoon is very popular and a great way to enjoy a drink and catch up with friends and family. Bookings are recommended, and private functions are catered for.
Owner Ricky Lee
Head Chef Gerard Geerligs
2/39 First Avenue, Sawtell t 6658 2682
Shops 1 & 2 53 Beach St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1962
open: 7 Days. 7.30am - 8pm. Sunday – close at 3pm.
open Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Friday and Saturday evenings.
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar We invite you to bliss out to the sublime views and fantastic food @ Surf Club Restaurant and Bar. Our absolute beachfront location is a captivating hub of daily beachside activity – the whales and dolphins never cease to amaze, the skydive drop zone, the Lifeguard Tower … it’s like a holiday for your soul AND definitely the coolest place to chill out whilst catching up with friends and family! Our menu is inspired by our unbeatable location and loaded with the freshest of local produce … tantalizingly delicious food which complements our amazing outlook.
Saltwater Restaurant EXTENDED HOURS OVER SUMMER. Superbly positioned only a few lazy metres from the rolling surf at Emerald Beach, just 15 km north of Coffs Harbour. Take in the view, while our team of award winning chefs and staff look after you. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace, a leisurely lunch, or fine dining in the evening. Saltwater is the perfect location for your wedding reception or function. Recently voted Winner Best Breakfast Restaurant, Northern/New England.
TRY – Our ‘Deck Opening Special’. Choose from BLAT style brekkie wrap, bacon and eggs or Vego brekkie for just $10, including small fresh OJ. Available 7 days from 7am to 8.30am.
Chef Matt Donovan
Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour t 6652 9870 open: Daily from 7am. Breakfast and Lunch.
Head Chef Dustin Bowie
104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach t 6656 1888 w www.saltwateronthebeach.com open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days during the summer holidays. coffs coast focus 17
eat. Latitude 30 Restaurant + Bar Latitude 30 is the talk of the town, boasting fantastic dining and atmosphere. Let us introduce you to Head Chef Ben Massey. Ben prides himself on utilising fresh locally sourced seafood and produce. His enthusiasm for cooking is evident in every dish, from his house made curry pastes created from 38 individual ingredients, through to the decadent desserts that are on offer. Ben works alongside proprietor and Executive Chef Marcus Blackwell, whose knowledge and ability to source the best ingredients the East Coast has to offer shows on the menu, which include Yellow Fin Tuna, local lobsters, King Prawns and succulent grain fed steaks.
Head chefs Ben Massey and Joe Koosurojn.
Unit 8/1 Marina Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6651 6888 w www.latitude30.com.au
It’s Back – The Summer Brasserie! 11.30am – 9.30pm every day Dining is easy for families with the extensive blackboard brasserie menu and daily specials taking full advantage of the region’s fresh produce and seafood. Dine alfresco on the terrace overlooking the pool and lagoon, or inside in air conditioned comfort. Horizons Restaurant & Bar, overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views. Guests are able to dine alfresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5 - 6pm daily.
Clinton Hunter Head Chef.
Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week.
open: 8am ‘til late.
Cocoa Café
Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar
Cocoa is a modern, upbeat café. We provide old fashioned table service to a professional standard. Our food is modern and funky, using only the freshest ingredients from local sources. We have a weekly specials board, as well as our ever popular breakfast and lunch menu. Cocoa has a reputation for the best coffee in town, as well as our home-made cakes and desserts. We cater for private functions and can provide morning/ afternoon tea or lunch platters.
Would you believe me if I said it was a Cheesecake? A delicious lime cheesecake with fluffy meringue top and tender shortbread ... even despite the fact it’s liquid ... multicoloured ... and served in a beaker ... come on – you had to be expecting something a little crazy from us by now! We love to show you that the state in which the food is in, solid, liquid or gas, is no longer relevant to the taste and experience. Come on in and try our Galileo Lime and Meringue Cheesecake!
Chef Stephen Partington.
Palms Shopping, Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 7417 open: Monday – Friday: 7am – 5pm. Saturday: 7am – 3pm. Sunday: 8am – 1pm.
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Horizons Restaurant & Bar
Chef Joel McCulla.
27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway). t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am. Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.
focusinterview.
Sunday Sessions.
The Surf Club
Looking for something to do on a lazy Sunday afternoon? Look no further, as we have heard you and your popular Sunday Sessions are back! While it appears that there are a couple of local imitations, only a handful capture the magical ingredient of this local drawcard – a beachfront setting. Every Sunday at the Casay Café & Bar, you can kick back, relax and get into the mood for fun loving, summer days. Our chefs will be cooking up a feast on the barbie, the bar will be stocked with cheeky beverage specials, there will be free locally grown entertainment and a view to die for. There is truly is no place better than this local.
HEAD CHEF
Matt Donovan.
We have designed this afternoon for everyone to enjoy. Sausage sizzle for the kids, buckets of Coronas to share among friends, quality wines by the glass for those enjoying a small tipple and mocktails for those non-drinkers of the family. Grab a mate, bring the kids or head out to enjoy a great afternoon with your partner – as what’s not to love about this? Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort offers two dining options, both boasting sweeping views over the ocean. Finz on the Beach is open for breakfast daily and dinner nightly, with the Casay Café and Bar open for lunch daily. Lazy Sunday afternoons are held throughout the summer. For bookings or enquiries, contact (02) 6652 7555.
ell us about your style of cooking ... Keep it simple, keep it fresh, listen to what the customerss want, and keep the daily specials current and interesting. What are your favourite ingredientss to cook with – and why? Local fish and seafood. Always greatly appreciated by locals and tourists, ag aiin and again. ain again and best cooked simply, served with a What is new at the Surf Club? housemade sauce or dressing, The recent completion of a 6 like Gay’s famous mango metre wide roofed deck mint mayonnaise … or a running across the full We now have a classic hollandaise. re nt length of the ocean What will locals love about the Surf Club? The atmosphere, the view, and the variety on the menu … most people have a hard time deciding which dish to choose.
“
conference ce ys to available Monda hool Fridays out of sc kfast ea holidays for breetings, m h and lunc conferences an...d training sessions
What do you most enjoy about running an eatery? Living 500 metres away from work, being able to see the amazing ocean views, seeing people leave really happy with the food and service and returning
side of the Club. The view is to die for.
Do you cater for functions? Our restaurant is available for functions for up to 200 people Monday to Saturday nights, including wedding receptions, corporate events and parties.
”
We now have a conference centre available Monday to Fridays out of school holidays for breakfast and lunch meetings, conferences and training sessions, with a full AV set up available. coffs coast focus 19
Held over the long weekend of 8 – 11 June 2012.
Bellingen Music Festival. Where Music Lives.
Supplying deliciousness since 2010.
k’pané Artisan Bakery. k’pané ARTISAN BAKERY opened in Coffs Harbour in February 2010. Owners Bret and Kirsty Knight have proudly been supplying locals with delicious sourdough breads, gourmet pies, cakes, pastries and coffee. A major focus of k’pané is to only use whole foods. All products are made without the use of artificial flavours, colours and preservatives. k’pané only uses natural, and where possible, organic ingredients. Bret has worked extensively in Australia and has experience working overseas as a chef and pastry chef, gaining a great deal of experience, which he brings to k‘pané. k’pane has a committed team equally devoted to the quality that is the trademark of k’pane bakery.
Welcome to a brand new year, full of promise and good things to come, especially in the music world here at Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium – the place Where Music Lives! We are looking forward to a fabulous new year of music making. In addition to our regular program of instrumental lessons for all ages and all aspirations, which includes drums, guitars, piano and all the wind, brass and strings, the Conservatorium has new ensembles on offer in 2012. Peter Skelton is running a Percussion Ensemble; Chris Frater will direct a Wind Ensemble including flutes, saxophones and clarinets; and Darrell Hodges is getting together a Trumpet Ensemble. All ensembles are free of charge to students enrolled at the Conservatorium. But anyone can join in the fun! Enquires are welcomed by our office team – just call us and we will provide details. “Making music with others is fun and an integral part of learning to play an instrument,” says Director Carol Hellmers. “We have a vibrant and safe place where everyone can improve their music skills.” Located at the Bray St Complex, the Conservatorium is THE place where music lives. To enrol and for further information, phone 6652 1592.
NBLF NVTJD with '3*&/%4 COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL CONSERVATORIUM
guitar groups ensembles choirs & more Bray Street Complex Cnr Bray Street & Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 CALL
6652 1592 VISIT www.coffscon.org.au
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Bellingen will once again play host to an exhilarating festival of Cassical music over the long weekend of 8 – 11 June 2012. Five wonderful concerts are planned. The internationally renowned vocal ensemble, the Song Company led by Roland Peelman, will open the festival and perform on the Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as hold singing workshops for the local schools and community. The Orava String Quartet will perform with the Song Company on the Friday and the Melbourne Guitar Quartet on the Saturday. Other artists include Shelli Hulcombe (soprano) with Deirdre Rickards (piano), Accord pour Deux, a unique horn duo and the Bellingen Youth Orchestra. Read about the Song Company and all the other artists on the website www.bellingenmusicfestival.com.au Information about places to stay and things to do in Bellingen is also on the website. Weekend passes for $130 and individual concert tickets for $35 or $30, according to the concert, will be available online or from Roots Records, Hyde St, Bellingen from early 2012. The Bellingen Music Festival thanks all our supporters, and in particular ETC and SI Energy.
focusrecipe
by Kylie Soultanian.
This dish is a specialty of Piedmont, Italy. Translated, it means ‘warm sauce’ or ‘hot bath’.
Bagna Cauda
The bath, olive oil, is gently warmed with garlic and anchovies until the oil is flavoured, the garlic is softened and the anchovies are dissolved. Essentially, it is an Italian dip and is served with raw vegetables or crusty bread. This dip will be, without doubt, one of the easiest and most versatile you will ever make. Ingredients.
Now Get Creative ...
200 ml olive oil. 4 - 5 cloves of garlic, crushed. 6 - 7 anchovies, drained and chopped. 100 g butter.
1. Toss partly boiled potatoes in this sauce and roast them off in the oven, until they are golden and crispy. 2. Add a squeeze of lemon, and this dip becomes an amazing warm dressing over fresh Buffalo mozzarella, tomato and rocket salad. 3. For a delicious accompaniment to char grilled bread, add finely diced tomatoes and chopped parsley to the sauce. 4. To the above recipe, try adding some green prawns to the pan before the garlic and anchovies. Squeeze over a generous amount of fresh lemon juice. Have lots of bread on hand to mop up the sauce. Please note: It is essential that you use good quality olive oil and fresh garlic, which can be found at our local Growers Market.
Method. Pour the oil into a pan; add the garlic and heat gently. Add anchovies and cook, stirring over low heat until the anchovies dissolve, being careful not to over cook the garlic. Add the butter and as soon as it has melted, serve, placed on a spirit stove so that it does not get cold. Serves 4.
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focusinterview.
Origins of
FOCUS is partnering with Zulu’s Restaurant and Bar to present a special charity dinner, The Origins of Love. Head Chef Joel McCulla tells us more about the event. ulu’s is hosting a special Valentine’s dinner in February – The Origins of Love. Tell us about the concept behind this event and where the idea came from. ‘The Origins of Love’ is firstly a celebration of love, a celebration being played out on the table in a gastronomic tale of epic proportions. We wanted to put all of our talent, creativity and skill into guiding the people of Coffs Harbour through a dining experience, the likes of which they had never experienced before. We wanted to build the evening around the concept of sharing and fostering a sense of community through actions motivated by love. Which is why we then turned the evening into a charity event – the benefactors being the local charity, Coffs Caring Community. This is an organisation whose sole purpose is the raising of funds, with the intention of turning those funds to local projects and initiatives whose goals involve bettering the Coffs Harbour community and neighborhood for the Coffs Harbour residents.
We then needed a theme, a theme that focused on love in its purity regardless of its origin, which is where The Origins of Love came into it. The Origins of Love is a beautiful tale written by Stephen Trask for a equally beautiful John Cameron Mitchell film. It’s a tale based on the Symposium written by Plato, telling the tale of the origins of love being shared between two people because they were once of the same soul. It is a degustation dinner … what can we expect to see on the menu? Well, degustation is by definition the action or an instance of tasting, especially in a series of small portions. It has become popular for chefs to tell a story through a degustation dinner, using each different bite as a new element in an ever growing tale. So, you can expect to see a series of elements which in any other situation or circumstance would be unrelated, except when they are played out in the sequence we play them out. Or basically, six courses of amazing and exciting food that tell a story. One course that I will publicly release before
the date is my infamous slow roasted lamb ... working to meet the charitable needs of our lamb that has spent an entire day roasting slowly region. It has been established to provide in nothing but pure sea salt and fresh cracked assistance within Coffs Harbour and surrounding black pepper, but is then served under a shiny districts to disadvantaged women, children and gossamer layer of dark coveture chocolate glaze young people, either by supporting existing ... a true treat, and an unreal experience. charities or by funding new initiatives. Zulu’s Restaurant and Bar is famous for some So a charitable organisation of locals, fighting ‘outside the box’ menu items. Will there be for local needs and local initiatives is an ideal some adventurous dishes on this menu as recipient of some love on such a love filled well? evening. Of course! FOCUS is proud to be a sponsor of this It wouldn’t be a Zulu’s experience if it charity event. Are there still wasn’t a little outside of the box, opportunities for sponsors to or over the top, or a little left come on board? How can field – or all of the above. We’ll businesses/people get Coffs Caring almost certainly have some involved? Community a of our more active whizzing, We are certainly happy to Incorporated is ed rm fo fizzing and banging dishes, have as much community recently cal lo of n tio ia oc ss and without doubt there will involvement as we can A to meet people working eds of be combinations of flavours receive, and we’re looking the charitable ne that you would never for the local community at our region. have thought to experience large to assist the event by together – but by the time you donating goods, for auction on leave, you will be unable to believe the evening, use in the meals, or to you don’t eat them together on a more be given to the attending lovers on the regular basis. evening as both a gift and a reminder of what While we often deliver outside of the box local businesses are out there and willing to assist ideas, and push the idea of food and dining to their community. new and interesting levels, we will always deliver We aren’t looking to break anyone’s budget fresh food at its best. We want the ingredients to or push businesses for prizes of exuberant value; speak and tell their tale, as much as we want to it’s about using what part of the community can show what we can do with them. spare to support the rest of the community. Aside from a delicious meal, what else can We have already had FOCUS, of course, and guests expect as part of the experience on Tabatinga, Brown Brothers, Drover’s Meats, the night? We have a huge night planned. Brown Brothers Wines and Two Tails Winery have graciously donated enough wine to lubricate each course as they come along. We have silent auctions planned to again help raise the charity profile of the event and evening. There will be music, there will be the opportunity to dance, but hopefully and most importantly there should be plenty of love flowing throughout the evening. We hope to help couples who come along to celebrate their bonds, and maybe inspire some of the singles or groups who come to broaden their friendship circles and invite some new people into their lives ... whether it ends up being for the evening, or a little longer. It is Valentine’s Day, after all. If there is any one day in the year where sparks are likely to light a little brighter and burn a little hotter, it’s got to be on February 14. The Origins of Love will be raising money for Coffs Caring Community Inc. Tell us about the charity and why you chose them. Coffs Caring Community Incorporated is a recently formed Association of local people
Hux’s Seafood and Pansabella Food & Flowers generously donate goods and services, and we are anticipating a very exciting evening! Where can people buy tickets, and what’s included in the price? Tickets can be purchased from Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar at the Zebra Motel, and due to the limited number of seats available and the high interest in the evening, we will be making no reservations – it is simply first in best dressed. The tickets are selling for $100 per person. This includes the six-course dinner and matching wines, and the complimentary goodie bag of donated local products and produce. Thanks Joel.
the plug! Feel free to call 6652 1588 to check on tables and seats available, and watch our website www.zuluscoffs.com to see what courses will be as they are developed. To make donations to the cause, please feel free to phone our chef, Joel, on 0401 187 064.
To be in the draw, simply tell us in 20 words or less what your most ‘unique’ food experience has been so far.
5 Double Passes
FOCUS has 5 double passes to The Origins Of Love charity dinner to give away. SEND YOUR ENTRY FORM BY MAIL TO FOCUS, Origins of Love Giveaway, PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.
______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Name: ________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________ Winners will be notified by telephone. Entries close on 31 January 2012.
22 coffs coast focus.
focusinterview.
Zulu’s
ulu’s is certainly one of the most unique eateries on the Coffs Coast. Where do your African influences come from? Africa is a huge place, so picking one region and designing a menu around that seemed almost like a waste. So, we instead use a wide variety of African elements and meld, mould and force them together to create the new and unique foods we have in the African sections of our menu. These completely new and exotic flavours are so unique and delicious, we’ve found that they bleed right through our menu, and we have ended up using them through our Grille menu, and even in parts in the new Veneficus part of the menu – that’s the part of the menu where I as a chef push the
boundaries ... well actually, it’s the part of the menu where I don’t allow myself to see any boundaries at all ... You’ve told FOCUS once before that science is one of the things that makes your restaurant unique. How exactly do you use science in your kitchen? It’s the scientific process that firstly makes my kitchen most different. The scientific process demands that you ask questions of what you are doing and what outcomes you have produced. At Zulu’s, it’s all about the ingredients and the experience. We figure if what you are doing to the food doesn’t benefit the flavour or quality of the food, or the experience of the meal itself ... why do it? You would be surprised how much unnecessary processing an ingredient can go through in recipes. To assist us in the minimal processing of our ingredients, we use some of the most modern techniques and additives (all of which are natural – why would we want to add chemicals to such wonderful produce); the results are, in their own way, incredibly unique. Zulu’s has a regularly changing menu. When will the new one be released, and what exciting things can we expect to see on it? The menu we are currently running is here for the summer, so the next menu
we change our menus seasonally ... it will be an autumn menu to end all autumn menus ... well ... that’s the theme. March 2012, being the end of the Mayan Calendar, we thought to have a menu to end all menus, and feature the biggest hits of the last eight seasonal menus and a few additional extras which push the envelope to the extreme ... THAT I won’t talk about, as I think it will certainly be a ‘see it to believe it moment’. What other plans have you got in store for 2012? 2012 is set to be a big year. We’ve got The Origins of Love Charity Dinner, of course, and we’re also looking forward to all of the big events we enjoyed in 2011, like the Sawtell Chilli Festival, Toast Urunga and the Growers Markets. There’s also a few added extras we intend on starting, due to popular demand, such as the production of Zulu’s chilli pastes and a cook book to guide you through their uses – and some cooking classes to help some of the local Coffs Harbour residents spice up or tech out their dinner parties. We’re planning on making 2012 the year that we show Coffs Harbour what dinning out can be all about, in that unique and twisted way that only comes from a twisted mind ... like mine!
change will be in March 2012, because
coffs coast focus 23
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The Great Coffs Coast Pub Crawl
the
great coffs coast
greenhouse tavern. The Top Dog: Shane McCarthy. The Food: Great Food Great Value says it all. Bistro dining at its finest, with lunch specials available daily from $10. Fantastic evening menu, with a vast array of grills, pastas and salads. You can’t go wrong either with our mid week Meal Deals. Tijuana Tuesday, Wednesday Steak and Ale, and Thursday night for Pizzas ... all $12. Lunch from 11.30am, dinner from 5.30pm, with our pizza menu available all day. Entertainment and Events: Live it up with entertainment all summer long. DJs and live bands will feature in the Harbour Bar every Thursday and Friday night from 8.30pm. Come early for the meat raffles and enquire about our Icebreaker membership. The Awards: Some awards hang on the wall collecting dust. We would rather award ourselves with the pride generated from delivering a welcoming, courteous and enjoyable experience on every occasion for our wonderfully loyal locals and visitors alike. The Kids: Mums and dads can relax as the kids enjoy the outdoor playground, the Playstations, the movies in the cinema room. Amazing kids’ menu with a host of healthy options. Sunday is Family Funday ... come along and enjoy the many and varied kids’ activities. The Community: The Greenhouse Tavern proudly associates itself with many local sporting and community groups and is always looking to support organisations involving the family unit. Greenhouse Tavern Social Sports Club is always ready to welcome new members. They offer loads of member activities and contribute constantly to worthy causes.
24 coffs coast focus.
moonee beach tavern.
the amble inn.
The Moonee Beach Tavern is run by Neville and Karen Edmonds. The management couple have been at the Tavern since April 2010. Moonee Beach Tavern’ bistro is open between 11.30am and 9pm each day, for some of the best pizza you will ever taste. Full service is served between 12pm and 3pm for lunch and 5pm ‘til 9pm for dinner. Priced for value and quality, the Tav can cater for all tastes, from great burgers to succulent steaks. Moonee Beach Tavern, recently a finalist in the AHA awards for excellence for best promotional concept, offers a diverse offering. Being an important contributor to the community, they are supporters of the Day of Difference Foundation and also sponsor Orara Valley Tomahawks. Friday nights every week sees live music at the Tav from 6.30pm, supporting local bands. Looking for a good quality bottleshop with great range and price, then look no further then Cellarbrations Moonee Beach. So if you are looking for a pub with thes lot, then look no further then Moonee Beach Tavern. Great food and drinks, as well as being kid friendly with a massive beer garden, the Tav has all your needs wrapped into one. We will even get you there and back on our courtesy bus that runs every day. Just call 6653 6199 for more information.
The Top Dog: The Amble Inn is owned by local family, the Matthews, and is headed up by Licensee Tracey Byard. The Food: Our kitchen is run by Head Chef Daan Duffhaus and apprentice Josh Anderson. The kitchen is open 7 days a week, with lunch served between 12pm and 2pm and dinner available from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Our menu includes a variety of specialty pizzas, and a special kids’ menu is available for the little ones. The hotel’s signature meal is a delightful chicken and prawn dish served with a mouthwatering mango sauce. Our large beer garden is a great place to relax with a cold drink and a bite to eat over summer. Entertainment & Events: We always have something happening to entertain our guests. Upcoming gigs include: 7 Jan – Matt Zarb Duet from Newcastle 7.30pm 14 Jan – Mic Hart + Band 21 Jan – Bits & Pieces Band 7.30pm 3 Feb – Driftwood Allies 7.30pm Courtesy Bus: Our family friendly courtesy bus is available from Halfway Creek to Woolgoolga. Bookings are essential. Community Involvement: The Amble Inn sponsors the Corindi Soccer Club and Touch Football Team, as well as the Corindi Public School Sports Person of the Year.
the
great coffs coast
hoey moey.
plantation hotel. The Top Dog: Charlie Nalder – Ex Licensee of Hotel Great Northern Byron Bay and Splendour in the Grass. The Food: Quality local ingredients with great budget options. From Dec 24 onwards, we will have an updated specials menu with 6 options every day for $10 or two (2) for $15. Broad à la carte menu, catering to all tastes. Entertainment & Events: Best of local, national and international live bands and DJs. Live band room that can hold 1,000 at capacity. Our Awards: Finalist AHA Awards for excellence 2011 – Best Family Friendly/Winner SMH Good Pub Food Guide Best Family Friendly Hotel NSW. Courtesy Bus: Available for our patrons. Bookings required. Facilities: Our venue is family friendly and kids can cook their own pizza! We have outdoor TAB Facilities, beer garden, function areas, sportsbar with huge screen, big screen projector in beer garden. Community Involvement: As we have just reopened the business, we are currently looking for community and sporting organisations to sponsor/assist. Please contact us.
The Top Dog: Twane Voglsinger – born and Bred in Coffs Harbour and attended St. Augustine Primary School. He studied Hotel and Catering Management in Sydney and worked in some of our finest hotels and restaurants in Sydney, Brisbae and the Gold Coast. “I have a passion for the hospitality industry. Our sole focus is customer service and complete customer satisfaction.” The Food: The Hoey Moey is famous for our $7.50 feeds. Entertainment & Events: We’re still rocking the Coast, with live music 6 days a week. Our famous Sunday ‘Chill Out’ Session in the beer garden is back – bigger and better! • Sunday ‘Chill Out’ Session – live music every Sunday from 3pm in the beer garden. • Crab Racing – every Sunday for the kids, from 1pm. Bid for a crab at our Crab Auctions and raise funds for the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter. Our Awards: AHA Best Regional Bottle Shop (Hoey Moey), Sunny’s Business Awards – Excellence in Training. Plus a few runner up awards – I think they made a mistake here! Courtesy Bus: The courtesy bus is kid friendly and everyone is welcome – especially families. It is our aim to be completely focused. We want everyone to have a great time and leave with a smile on the face! Community Involvement: Long term fundraiser for the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter and a proud supporter of the ‘Trek for Kids’ Rally. We sponsor many sporting groups and organisations and love raising funds for those in need or who are faced with massive medical bills. If we can help, we will!
seaview tavern. The Top Dog: Harry Barry. Born in a small country town pub in Ireland. My father was a chef, and I did my first lock up of a pub when I was 15. The Food: You’ll enjoy our famous $10 meal deals and our Thursday Steak Night, $10 for a beer and a steak. Entertainment & Events: Live bands every Friday night, and for the summer months we have our famous Summer Sessions every Sunday arvo with some great local cruisey sounds – featuring bands such as Wasabi and Keogh and Coastal Chill. Enjoy the laid back beer garden vibe. Our Awards: Best Family Business 2011 Sunny’s Awards. Woolgoolga Chamber Achievement Award 2011. Best Marketed Venue 2010 Sunny’s Awards. Added Extras: Our courtesy bus is kid friendly and runs from Wednesday to Saturday. We also have our own Bouncing Castle every day of the week, weather permitting. Community Involvement: Seaview Tavern is a proud sponsor of the Woolgoolga Seahorses, Woolgoolga Wolves Soccer Club, Woopi Netballers and pretty much any major event that occurs in the Northern Beaches.
coffs coast focus 25
focussocialscene
CaroleBeros F ROM L E DĀ I N DE S IG NS
below w below
Gary Twentyman, yman, Leanne Gibson, Lexi Duffy and Jodi Hoad at the Autism Cocktail Party. Party
Kay Ryan with Wayne and Nicolle Mortell at The Promenade Cocktail Party.
above Michael Mic chael Rolfe Rolfe, Sharni Lloyd Lloyd, Dr Leigh Sum Summers, John McDonald, Sue Mitchell and Dr Mal M Eutick at the EMSLA opening night.
pictured Beverly Moran at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus Ball.
There have been lots of celebrations on the Coffs Coast, with plenty more to come.
N
ew Year’s Eve is nearly here, Eisteddfod. Mayor Keith Roades presented and parties are being planned the awards to all the tutors who attended. as we speak. It’s time to reflect U3A (short for University of the Third Age) on the past twelve months, is a movement in Australia which is a loose and look forward to a brand collection of local organisations who support new year. Let’s go with the saying ‘Tomorrow is the aims and directions of providing lifelong the first day of the rest of your life’ and hurtle opportunities for their members. Do not be put ourselves into 2012 with a mighty dose of off by the term ‘third age’, as there is no real optimism and good intentions. age limit. Also, it has nothing to do with our So with that in mind, one of my New Year’s current idea of a university; rather, it conveys Resolutions will be to be a bit more daring! the concept of a group of people studying to There’s a name for nearly every phobia you satisfy an inner urge to learn. It offers low cost can imagine, and you can make the excuse learning opportunities, learning at your own that you suffer from a phobia to get out of pace and equality among members. doing stuff. For me it’s acrophobia – the fear of It was a busy night in Coffs Harbour, as heights. I’m hoping my husband, the owner of it was also the opening night of the Eutick Country to Coast Pest Control, doesn’t develop Memorial Still Life Prize at the Coffs Harbour the Zemmiphobia ... the fear of The Regional Gallery. EMSLA is in its 5th Great Mole Rat (or large rodents) year, and this is the strongest and can’t go to work! Anyway, show so far. Over 200 people d Long frocks an some are braver than others, attended, to be entertained e th e er smart suits weryone ev and what some think is a by a visiting soprano, Sam d an s, dres us. The looked gorgeoda walk in the park may scare Cobcroft, who dazzled ncing, night was for ing I was the pants off others! But the assembled with a and on arriv e what se to ed more on that later ... sparkling aria dedicated az am was a well t gh ou th I The Promenade Cocktail to Gallery benefactor, Dr e rehearsed danc Party this year raised funds Mal Eutick. Alice Jamison, routine ... for the Sawtell Surf Life Saving an accomplished pianist, Club. This is always a dress up was the accompanist. Guests affair and a night of social fun and enjoyed fine wines and canapés, entertainment. The cocktail food was delicious and the awards were announced. This year the as usual and provided by Mangrove Jacks and winning entry was Empty Vessels-Tree Guards Shearwater. I desperately tried not to eat the by Walcha artist Angus Nivison. The Blewitt usual 20+ prawns, but failed miserably ... must Prestige Award was given to Josh Foley for his add that to my resolutions list! Drinks were painting, Death of a Sexy Pear. The night was served and music from the Sawtell SLSC Band an uproarious success, and planning for next played through the night. Fire Dancers and year has already begun. EMSLA runs until 14 Fireworks added a special sparkle to the party. January 2012, so don’t miss out. Little whispers told me the party went on until C.ex Coffs was the venue for the Coffs the wee small hours! Harbour Health Campus 10th Year Anniversary The end of Year U3A Function was held Ball. Long frocks and smart suits were the recently at the Cavanbah Centre. Guests dress, and everyone looked gorgeous. The enjoyed lunch, refreshments and entertainment night was for dancing, and on arriving I was by Coffs Harbour Primary School’s choir, amazed to see what I thought was a well whom recently won their section at the 2011 rehearsed dance routine, where a couple 26 coffs coast focus.
twirled and whirled around the dance floor under twinkling ballroom lights at high speed. After a while when my eyes adjusted to the light, I realised it was none other than the fabulous Leonie Sens and Rod (Twinkle Toes) Peadon. I have known Leonie for twenty years or so – and had no idea she could move like that! Guests were served a delicious buffet and settled in to enjoy a night which included games of modelling body parts out of plasticine ... hmmmm, say no more! There was also a scavenger hunt, and various other ludicrous games to amuse usually very sensible people. One of those people was the new Director of Nursing, Joanne Uttley, who was attending her first formal hospital function. Fancy making her do things like that! But, I hear she had a fine time. Beverly Moran, assisted by Barbara Wenman, had the hard task of choosing the best dressed male and female. Le Dãin Designs provided jewels for the Best Dressed Lady, Louise Austin, and second prize went to Elizabeth Ford. Fine wine from Le Dãin Designs went to Best Dressed Male, Dr Sergio Diez Alvarez. You should have heard me trying to read his name out in the dark, up on the stage! I’m sure they did that deliberately! Mangrove Jacks was the venue for the Twilight Cocktail Party, which raised funds to assist and support local families living with Autism. When Kerry Hines and I arrived on the scene, Phil from Mangrove Jacks was busy shaking up some ferocious cocktails for over 70 party goers. The Best Dressed Couple for the evening were chosen, and jewels and fine wine from Le Dãin Designs went to Leanne Gibson and Gary Twentyman. Delicious dishes were served, and there was a chance to win a fantastic prize from one of the many raffles, or to make a bid at the evening’s major auction. For something different, guests could indulge in a temporary tattoo or have the talented Trudy Smith embellish your face with glittering artwork. Great Fun! The Pride of Workmanship Awards,
presented by the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour, were held at C.ex Coffs. Kim Gould (our editor) was up for an award. Well done Kim – what an amazing ride this has been for Coffs Coast FOCUS, and what a great effort was put in to build it up from scratch. I may sound like I am a bit biased, but I don’t care ... credit where credit is due, I say! Anyway, the night saw over 30 nominees awarded for their hard work, with the People’s Choice Award going to Crystal Mead from The Edge Real Estate. Music from Chris Frater and John Mostyn entertained the crowd and guest speaker Stuart Cook, a former JPC student, shared his success story from humble beginnings to his current position as CEO of Zambrero, a gourmet Tex-mec restaurant chain. And he’s only in his midtwenties! Overall, it was a fantastic night of recognition for hard work and dedication. Going back to phobias and getting out of doing things ... my husband and son swear there’s a reason for everything, or rather a reason for NOT doing anything. So here is a little list of what I think we may be suffering from sometimes. And folks, do not adjust your sets ... these are the real deal! For the Kids • Flobeephobia: Fear of vacuum cleaners (bedroom) • Alliumphobia: Fear of vegetables (green) For The Men • Parkophobia: Fear of Parking (next to shops) • Allodoxaphobia: Fear of personal opinions (mine) For Me • Xocolataphobia: Fear of chocolate (definitely not my problem!) Yes, there seems to be a name for everything. But it’s okay guys, don’t get freaked out because there is some good news ... absolutely zilch came up when I googled ... FEAR OF BEER! So ... HAPPY NEW YEAR! To one and all. Carole, Le Dãin Designs.
Direct from the farmer.
Farmers Beef Direct.
Discover A World of Colour.
There’s something really satisfying and emFarmers Beef Direct is a husband and wife powering knowing the history of the food that team situated in the stunning Bellingen you’re consuming and feeding your family. Valley, on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Farmers Beef Direct cattle are free range, grassTogether with their three gorgeous girls in tow, fed, ethically farmed and guaranteed they own several farms in the Bellhormone free. Their beef is aged ingen and Dorrigo districts and correctly for maximum flavour manage their magnificent tenderness. There are no beef cattle to the highest All the s to customer need secrets – only the ability to and strictest of standards. e do is jump onlin provide you with great, honTheir cattle are treated ck and order a pa ed, est beef. It’s a great feeling to humanely and grown corer liv de and it is to , ge ar know you’re directly supportrectly. They decided that ch of free ing a local Coffs Coast farmer. it’s only fair that others your door. should have access to their All the customer needs to do is superior tasting beef, direct jump online and order a pack and from the farmer. it is delivered, free of charge, to your Farmers Beef Direct is an online business and currently offers those people who live on the Australian eastern seaboard, from Coffs Harbour to Newcastle, the opportunity to share in their home grown delights.
door. Now, that’s service. Their beef is all vacuum packed into meal size portions, so all the hard work has been done for you. Taste the difference at Farmers Beef Direct. You will be back for seconds in no time at all!
Art lovers on the North Coast will be treated to a feast of colour, imagination and beauty this summer at the Jeffrey Baker Art Exhibition. Coffs Harbour based artist, Jeffrey Baker, will be familiar to many people as the man behind the richly coloured landscape artworks seen hanging in businesses and homes around the region. Jeffrey is holding a major exhibition of his work at Opal Cove Resort, representing the largest showing of his body of original surreal artwork. The resort offers the perfect location for visitors to browse the collection in a beautiful setting, making the art accessible to both tourists and locals for a limited time. Jeffrey Baker’s modern Australian style is characterised by his imaginative interpretation of land and seascapes, using unusual techniques such as layering and intricate detailing to produce works of unparalleled
beauty. His artistic career has included commission work for homes and interior design, as well as corporate contracts. The Coastal Colours Exhibition will provide something for everyone, from art connoisseurs to those simply looking for a relaxing activity during the summer holidays. Jeffrey will also be at the exhibition daily to discuss his artwork and offer insight into the creative process behind each piece. On display will be original oil and acrylic artworks, limited edition prints, canvas art prints and small gift items. Don’t miss out on your chance to discover the exceptional talent of this sought after artist right on your doorstep, for a short time only. The exhibition runs from 31 December 2011 to 28 January 2012. Open daily 11am - 6pm, free admission. Opal Cove Resort, Pacific Highway (North), Coffs Harbour. Contact (02) 6652 8099 or 0403 202 699.
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The Coffs Ambassadors Tours are a great initiative by Coffs Harbour City Council to help locals and visitors get to know the region’s natural environment. FOCUS talks to Erika Van Schellebeck from the Council to find out a little more about what it means to be part of this programme, and why it will be of interest to you.
W
hat is the Coffs Ambassadors programme? Coffs Ambassadors Tours is a unique eco tourism programme that has tempted hundreds of locals and visitors to explore our wonderful scenery in the two years that it has been run by Coffs Harbour City Council. The programme involves everyday people who have been trained through NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Coffs Harbour City Council to become volunteer guides, who run tours of particular areas of the Coffs Coast that they know and love. Tours are run all year round by volunteer tour guides in Coffs Harbour, Coramba, Moonee, Sawtell, Toormina and Woolgoolga. Coffs Ambassadors Tours is a partnership with Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare, Friends of the Botanic Gardens, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Solitary Islands Marine Park Association. The programme was initiated from a NSW Government Environmental Trust grant and is now fully funded by Council with assistance from its Environmental Levy Program. So you are currently recruiting more Coffs Ambassadors Tour guides? Council is now looking for volunteers to join the current team of Coffs Ambassadors in 2012. We are looking for people who wish to share their passion and knowledge for our natural places, make new friends, 28 coffs coast focus.
have fun and learn new skills. ew ski k llllss. ki s. Anyone 18 years and become d over can b a volunteer tour guide. Obviously this is an outdoor activity so a general level of mobility and fitness is required. What are the benefits of becoming a Coffs Ambassador? Volunteer tour guides receive free training in: • Interpretive Tour Guiding for Public Groups by NPWS Discovery Rangers and Solitary Islands Marine Park Education Officers; • Aboriginal cultural awareness by Mark Flanders; • accredited Senior First Aid; and • reptile awareness by Steve McEwan. This enables volunteers to develop their skills in tour guiding, designing and writing their own tour (interpretation), public speaking and occupational health and safety. Council provides accredited First Aid Training and ongoing support for each volunteer. This includes opportunities to catch up with the whole Coffs Ambassadors team during team debriefing activities, additional training and – of course - the Christmas lunch. Tell me about the new opportunities for Ambassadors in 2012 2012 provides an exciting opportunity for Coffs Ambassadors to develop tours along the proposed Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. The Walk, a joint project of Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Coffs Coast Regional Park will link Sawtell to Arrawarra when it opens in late 2012.
I hear that becoming an Ambassador can be a career stepping-stone? Would-be guides should also be aware that becoming a Coffs Ambassador can be a stepping-stone to a new career - two Ambassadors volunteers have since found work as National Parks and Wildlife Service Discovery Rangers. One of the Rangers, Kev Starkey, says: “Without the Coffs Ambassador programme, I wouldn’t have become a National Parks Discovery Ranger. The training I received as a Coffs Ambassador gave me the skills and confidence needed to gain employment as a Discovery tour guide.” What other rewards are there for Ambassador Tour Guides? Locals love the tours and are always giving the tour guides great feedback. “I’ve lived here for 26 years and I never knew about this walk” - Craig from Bonville. “I only moved to Coffs Harbour a year ago, so these tours are a great way to get to know the area” - Lesley from Korora. During a recent “Koalas in our Backyard” Walk in Toormina, the tour guide and tour participants were thrilled to discover a koala with its baby on it’s back just a couple of metres above them in a gum tree. Who can people contact if they are interested in becoming a Coffs Ambassador? I’d encourage anyone who is interested to give me a call on 6648 4668 or email me at erika.vanschellebeck@chcc.nsw.gov.au as I’m more than happy to answer any questions about what’s involved.
focusinterview.
Sunday Wall Art
is a fun competition for local primary school age children to show off their skills and creativity on the walls of the Jetty Markets. FOCUS chats to one of the organisers, Andrew Smith (AKA Captain Jack) about the competition.
H
ow did the Sunday Wall Art at the artworks then ‘like’ your favourite – each program come to fruition? ‘like’ counts as 5 votes. Myself and Greg Softley, the There’s also the challenges that ‘Captain manager of the Jetty Markets, Jack’ puts out on Facebook each week. For have been working together example, the first week in November was a this year to boost the profile of the market. Movember challenge – the girls got double the We were looking for something a bit points for getting a moustache happening! different to add to the markets, and we We also had a ‘bring some treasure’ thought of a painting competition. At that challenge, and the kids brought down those stage, I’d been doing kids’ activities there for chocolate coins etc. And another week was a about 2 months, so in late July we started the boating challenge, and they brought down life Sunday Wall Art project. vests, oars etc. We had all the walls around the side of the Each of the challenges means participants market, and we thought if we divided it in get points towards the end result. And to 2 metre sections we could paint of course, people can also vote around them in a competition. on the day. Voting on the day, We had to decide which combined with the challenges The goal is to age group would be the and Facebook ‘likes’ gives us le complete the who best, and we thought an overall result. er wall by East a ve ha primary school age, because So how else does Captain en and th parents, grandparents and Jack get involved? celebration and t opening of the ‘ar friends would want to come He hosts the event on wn gallery’ that is do and view the artwork, and the day. He does a bit of there now. the kids would also want them commentating while the kids to come down and see it. are painting, and he encourages Initially, we opened it up mostly to people to vote. schools, and then we included community He gives away prizes for voting and groups as well. We’ve just finished our second runs a couple of games for the kids as a bit of term of the competition, and we’re about entertainment. He also makes sure the kids are two thirds of the way around the wall at the topped up with paint, water and brushes etc. market! What happens when you run out of wall? What are the prizes that are up for grabs? We’re going to have to go to the outside The prize is $1,000 each term to the winning walls, or paint over the originals and start team with the biggest number of public votes. again. The goal is to complete the whole wall This money goes to the group to spend on by Easter and then have a celebration and whatever they want. On top of that, the kids opening of the ‘art gallery’ that is down there on the winning team get $500 cash to divvy up now. between them. How can teams register? Through the research we’ve done, we’ve If they ring myself or Greg, they get to book worked out it’s one of the highest prizes for a in a Sunday to paint. If a Sunday is too tricky; primary school art competition on the coast! say for example, they want to make it a school We didn’t realise that when we started it, so it’s excursion, the teachers can just bring them great! down on a day during the week that we tee-up How many people are in a team? for them. If they have more than 5, they take it in turns Thanks Andrew. to paint – a bit like a tag-team. So 5 is a good number. more info. How is the competition judged? It’s based on a points system, which includes visit www.www.sundaywallart.com or call Andrew on 0408 627 100 or people’s choice, Facebook votes and a series of Greg on 6651 6988. challenges. On the Facebook page you can look
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holidayfun!
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Butterfly House. Problem Child? We’ve turned your Child Problem into a Solution. With the school holidays finally here, many parents are left wondering how to fill the void left by the absence of the school day. At last there is an answer! A Jr. Superstar Sports Superfun Holiday Session will provide your child with the exciting activities based day out they’ve been craving and leave you with the peace of mind knowing that they are being cared for in a safe and extremely fun environment. We’ll take the most energetic, hyperactive child and hand them back in a state of blissful exhaustion* so you can enjoy their company in the peace and quiet that nature intended. So when you’ve had enough of the screaming and the boredom, we’re the place that’s so much fun out of the sun filled with Skills Fitness and Fun … All in One. Find us on Facebook for daily specials, or visit our website for more details. *Jr. Superstar Sports accepts no liability for children that still have energy at the end of the session; we did our best.
Celebrate Australia Day.
Wondering what to do with your visitors this Christmas holidays? Get Back to Nature at the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House and be treated to free entry. The Butterfly House operates their ‘locals deal’ every day, allowing each local resident accompanied by a paying out of area visitor free entry. It is a fantastic way to be able to spend time with your visitors, exploring the lifecycle of the butterfly. There are many experiences to have with your visitors at the award winning attraction – you can walk among hundreds of live Australian butterflies wearing bright colours to encourage the butterflies to land on you; you can explore the maze within a maze as you hunt for butterfly information hidden within; you may just want to relax in the tearooms enjoying a cuppa or the famous scones; or maybe you are after a locally made wooden product displayed in the woodturning gallery. So whatever amount of time you have, the Butterfly House provides you with a variety of opportunities, from taking photos to finding out about butterfly plants for your garden, from watching caterpillars eat and grow to watching new butterflies emerge – Get Back to Nature at the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House. You won’t be disappointed!
Get your Kids back to nature... to learn the secrets of the fascinating life cycle of the butterfly as they stroll among 100’s of live Australian butterflies in the tranquil all weather rainforest. Enjoy freshly made refreshments in our shaded tearooms or explore the puzzling outdoor maze. Open 9 - 4 Tues to Sun, 7 days in NSW School Holidays COFFS HARBOUR
%XWWHUIO\ +RXVH MAZE & TEA ROOMS
5 Strouds Road Bonville Exit off Pacific Highway at TD18 (Lyons Rd) 9 Kms south of Coffs Harbour p: 02 6653 4766 w: butterflyhouse.com.au 30 coffs coast focus.
All Things Australian. In a ‘First’ for the Gardens, the Friends of the Garden celebrate Australia Day this year with food and entertainment reminiscent of ‘the good old days’ – a relaxing day of fun for all members of the family. Entry by donation, all funds go towards building and maintaining the Garden. 10.30am: we start with Australian Folk Theatre staged by Alex and Annette Hood, using all the disciplines of theatre, including puppets. Adults and children alike take delight in their plays. 11.45: Ben Pritchard brings Bush Poetry from CJ Dennis’ The Sentimental Bloke and Henry Lawson, with a bit of harmonica accompaniment. 12.30 onwards: we have a combination of the Woolgoolga based band ‘Headland’ interspersed with bush poetry until 3pm. Bush Poets are the stuff of legend from the droving days of stockmen and Waltzing Matilda! Campfire tales, Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson will take you back to the scent of hot eucalypts and billy tea. Devonshire teas, homemade lamingtons, the ‘real McCoy’ lemonade and a sausage sizzle will be available. Whether you are an old-time Aussie, or a newcomer to these southern shores, this will be an entertaining day.
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th
20 Anniversary. R O TA R Y C L U B O F C O F F S H A R B O U R
child receives a meal. These activities inclu clud l de de include l b ll volleyball, ll b ll soccer sporting d disciplines off netball, and basketball. To participate in these programs, each child must attend classes where issues around adolescence, sexual health, self-esteem and social responsibility are discussed and essays written to ensure participants understand what has been taught. Daybreak has funded these programs in the past, and recently the Australian Sports Outreach Program, through the Australian Embassy, has approved a Sport Development Grant. Another youth project Daybreak funded is the Rotary Youth Leadership Program, to foster better opportunities for young people. Daybreak has tried to provide practical support in the form of funding sewing machines, rabbit breeding and poultry programs for the caregivers and youth to learn a skill and generate an income. Education is a high priority at Chiedza, which has a preschool for 40 children funded through UNICEF Australia, with Daybreak contributing books for their library. There is also a resource centre for after school tuition. Since the decline in the education system, there has been a dramatic drop in exam
This year the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak celebrated its 20th anniversary. The club was chartered in 1991 by a group of energetic and enthusiastic Rotarians, who over the years have supported many worthwhile projects. lso celebrating an anniversary in 2011 was Daybreak’s major international project, Chiedza Child Care in Harare, Zimbabwe. Daybreak’s involvement with Chiedza began in 2003, when Rotarian Bev Stalling was invited to attend a meeting with the Board of Trustees and was approached by a fellow Rotarian and asked if Daybreak would support Chiedza. Chiedza Child Care was founded by a group of concerned professional, academics and business people in response to escalating need to provide practical help for disadvantaged children. The centre is located on five acres of land in Ardbennie Township. The centre runs a community
based care programme for orphans and other vulnerable children, as well as their caregivers. The majority of these caregivers are extended families or step-parents, as well as older siblings caring for a number of brothers and sisters (child headed households). Through Daybreak’s involvement, Chiedza has evolved from its humble beginnings providing care and education for about 60 orphaned children from a ramshackle old blue building, to the facilities that now support more than 750 children, education and training for 200 carers, poultry and rabbit breeding programs in multiple buildings, including a health clinic. Around 200 children a day come to Chiedza for after school activities, where each
pass rates and access to textbooks. To meet this need, Daybreak funded computers and text books for the facility, resulting in an increase in pass rates. To feed the increasing number of children attending the centre, a kitchen facility was built in partnership with the Australian Embassy and the Qantas Cabin Crew Team, with Daybreak funding the installation of the three-phase power cable and the numerous kitchen utensils. During each visit Bev Stalling would deliver Daybreak’s donations of Panadol and medicines for the clinic, books for the preschool, much needed underwear for the girls, pens and pencils – all squeezed into a suitcase. This year saw the construction of the much needed sanitation facility. With over 300 children attending daily and 600 during school holidays, there was a need to increase the facilities. Once again, Daybreak partnered with UNICEF Australia and the Qantas Cabin Crew Team to build a new toilet block. Chiedza’s Chairman commented that it may not be the most glamorous project we have funded, but the most needed. So on 24 November, Chiedza celebrated its 10th anniversary. There was so much excitement and joy, with everyone dressed in their best clothes to celebrate this proud achievement. It is crucial that communities such as Chiedza thrive and prosper, to not only provide vital services to their communities but also to demonstrate how a community can be set up and made successful and effective in areas of need. Daybreak hopes that it can share the journey into the future and see another 10 years and more for the Chiedza community.
New HEARINGLife clinic now open in Coffs Harbour plus visiting clinic in Grafton. We’re excited to announce the opening of our new Clinic at Coffs Harbour, as well as our visiting clinic in Grafton.
SPECIAL OPENING OFFER – FREE HEARING TEST Just mention this ad when you book your appointment.
• • • •
FREE digital hearing aids for pensioners and veterans (Conditions apply) FREE trials of the latest hearing aids Tinnitus advice Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Audiometrist, Kate Francis associated with hearing loss
Pa c
ifi
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wy
Phone 6651 6866 to book your appointment at either Coffs Harbour or Grafton.
S treet
kA ve
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ALSO VISITING: Grafton.
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2/49 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 6651 6866 www.hearinglife.com.au
coffs coast focus 31
Great Holiday Entertainment.
Jetty Theatre Holiday Fun. Great holiday entertainment for the whole family is to be had at The Jetty Theatre from January 18 – 21, when Seacrest Productions Inc presents THE 39 STEPS (Adapted by Patrick Barlow) in a return season, by (overwhelmingly) popular demand. Take a break from the heat of the beach or take shelter from the rain and do something out of your comfort zone. Get yourself to the Jetty Theatre for an experience to remember! Four talented local actors play 139 parts in this brilliantly clever, ridiculously funny production, currently the longest running comedy on Broadway. This multi award winning play adapted by Patrick Barlow from the original spy novel, written in 1911 by John Buchan (which Hitchcock committed to celluloid in 1935) will have you falling off your seats with its Monty Pythonesque shenanigans and brilliantly clever staging. Do not miss this murder mystery, romantic thriller farce. Performance times: Wed, Jan 18 @ 2pm, Thu, Jan 19 @ 8pm, Fri,Jan 20 @ 2 & 8pm and Sat,
32 coffs coast focus.
Nexus Community Gallery. Jan 21 @ 2 & 8 pm. And from the same creative team, in February Seacrest Productions Inc presents TREAD, a Broadway Odyssey. Written and Directed by Amanda Scott is this musical performance which follows the path of three guys from different backgrounds who meet at the beginning of the rocky road to TREADing the boards on Broadway. This piece has been improvised from an original concept to showcase the talents of three of our region’s finest young performers, students of the Jetty Theatre Youth and includes memorable musical numbers. Performance times: Fri, Feb 3 @ 8pm, Sat, Feb 4 @ 2 & 8pm. Tickets for both shows available online @ www. jettytheatre.com.au. For further details and generous large group bookings, call 0401 685 492. FOCUS READERS TICKET SPECIAL: All tickets to Matinee on Wednesday 18 January will be $15 online (booking fee will apply for box office purchases). Visit www.jettytheatre.com.au and select the ‘Focus Special’ price structure.
Bellingen has a well-earned reputation in all mediums to paintings and multi-media pieces, it has it all. It is the perfect place to far and wide as a beautiful small town and browse, enjoy the beauty of the works and, a hub of creativity. An important part of the perhaps, find that elusive gift. art scene is the Nexus Community Gallery in The gallery’s annual program includes the peaceful courtyard garden of three members’ group exhibiBellingen’s Old Butter Factory tions held over Easter, the Jazz Shopping Village. It is run Festival in August and the by the Bellingen ComThe gallery’s m ra Christmas holiday period. munity Arts Council and annual prog Also in the program, includes three volunteers. The gallery members’ group er since 2008, is the Bellinhas earned a glowing ov exhibitions held stival gen Youth Art Prize, held reputation as a soughtFe zz Easter, the Ja d the an in early December. st after exhibition space gu Au in among artists within our region and beyond. It is booked for exhibitions to 2015.
ay
Christmas holid period.
Exhibitions change monthly and with two exhibition spaces available, there is a wide variety of beautiful, high quality works of art to enjoy. Many of the artists are well known, and some have exhibited internationally. From funky handmade hats, ceramic pieces, jewellery, painted silk, textile art, 3D works
With every new exhibition there is an official opening with wine and nibbles for members and guests, so it’s not surprising that Nexus also has a reputation as a great place to socialise. The Bellingen Community Arts Council welcomes new members. Nexus Community Gallery, open 7 days 10am to 4.30pm. Ph (02) 6655 9222. www.bcac.org.au
JA N UA RY 2012
WITH TERRI
A R I E S.
L E O.
SAG I T TA R I U S.
MAR 21 - APR 20
JUL 24 - AUG 23
NOV 23 - DEC 21
You’re always searching for and chasing ‘that dream’. This is not a bad thing if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the ‘you’ you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness. Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.
You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher and other people are drawn to you, because they know you have their answers. Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive. Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.
TAU RU S.
V I RG O.
C A P R I C O R N.
APR 21 - MAY 21
AUG 24 - SEPT 23
DEC 22 - JAN 20
Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength. Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.
GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22 Your talents have been activated, which will wake up new gifts. Set some new goals now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside, you have your own answers, but unfortunately you are lacking the confidence to listen. Trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong. Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.
Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides – did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things? Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.
This month your awareness is being called toward your usual happy way of processing life. The reason why you are so fearful at present, is because you are currently taking life far too seriously, lighten up and bring back your laughter and watch your fears disappear. Pyrite will bring back courage.
LIBRA.
AQ UA R I U S.
SEPT 24 - OCT 23
JAN 21 - FEB 19
You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension. Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.
You Y may be b feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any ‘hasty’ decisions. Soon you will notice personal change and higher self-esteem. Good luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more, and try to have no expectations of your relationship. Turquoise is for confidence boosting.
CANCER.
S C O R P I O.
P I S C E S.
JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU
OCT 24 - NOV 22
FEB 20 - MAR 20
You are about to receive a special gift. This was your wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months. Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.
34 coffs coast focus.
You are entering a new cycle, with lots of excitement and laughter. At first your fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths. Calcite Brings spontaneity into the picture.
Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change. You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your new found qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt. Turquoise is great for self-validation.
It is an exciting time for you dear little fish. As the fish is the most sensitive to stress of all the animal kingdom, you naturally will be affected by the currents of stress around you, and you may have taken on someone else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY!
focusinterview.
We chat with Di Perry from Perry’s Lemon Myrtle in Taylors Arm about farming the native Australian Lemon Myrtle Tree.
www. perryslemon myrtle.com
Perry’s Lemon Myrtle ell us about Perry’s Lemon Myrtle, and how it all got started. Seventeen years ago, after attending a seminar at Macksville, the Perry family were introduced to the Australian native tree Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia Citriodora). We were totally hooked from that time onward to grow, harvest and produce oil and also manufacture a wonderful range of personal care products. Why is this region a suitable climate for growing Lemon Myrtle? Our plantation is situated at Taylors Arm, which is the native environment and required climate for growing Lemon Myrtle trees. It took ten years of hard yakka to get the plantation to our first harvest stage, where we extracted our first high quality yield of Lemon Myrtle oil.
Lemon Myrtle is a native Australian tree. Tell us about the distinct qualities and uses of this plant. The distinct qualities of the Lemon Myrtle oil compared to e.g. Lemon Verbena, Lemon Grass, Lemon Balm have a citral content of 70/75% citral. Lemon Myrtle has the highest citral content in any tree in the world. The high quality trees that we produce have 95 - 98% citral content; not all Lemon Myrtle tree plantations carry this high citral content. The oil used in all of our product range must be certified at the 95 - 98% citral content to deliver the excellent results to the skin that we are able to achieve. Tell us about the products you produce. The properties from our oil are antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial. So not only does the oil give our products a wonderful fragrance, it offers our consumers products for all
the family for general use and also provides pro ovides vid id des incredible i dibl therapeutic h i value l to help h l treat those h consumers with sensitive skin and chronic skin problems such as Eczema, Psoriasis, Dermatitis, Tinea, fungal nail problems, rashes, insect bites etc. Every product is designed to moisturise the skin. We have a large range of products available, suitable for babies through to mature age people. How far and wide are your products exported? We distribute our products all over Australia and to many overseas countries. How can people find out more about Perry’s Lemon Myrtle? We have a very successful online website at www. perryslemonmytle.com and have many visitors to the plantation able to enjoy a walk through the Lemon Myrtle canopy and visit our interesting gallery. We do a FREE Lemon Myrtle morning tea, BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL, from 1 to 50 people: booking number (02) 6564 2150 (consists of: Lemon Myrtle tea, l/m dip, l/m muffins, l/m cheese cake, l/m ice cream). Thanks Di.
coffs coast focus
35
focusinterview.
PICS IN STORIES FOLDER
Paul D’Olier. A veteran sailor, Paul is very much at home on the ocean wave. He specialises in teaching all aspects of yachting. ow long have you lived on the Coffs Coast, and what are your favourite things about the area? I have lived here since 1996. I love being near the ocean and its accessibility ... love the walks in the forests and along the beaches. The climate is especially good for 9 months of the year. How long have you been sailing, and how did you get started? I began sailing when I was 8 years of age in Yowie Bay in Sydney. I started because there was a yacht club in Yowie Bay; I first sailed skates, and it went from there to bigger yachts. What do you enjoy most about the sport? I love being on the water. Sailing is a sport in which you are always learning and being challenged by the elements. There are risks involved, strenuous activity with the need for strategy all at the same time, to give a winning outcome. Tell us about Holiday Coast Yachting and your involvement with the club. Holiday Coast Yachting was formed in 2004 as a partnership, but became my sole responsibility 2 years ago. I am the principal and chief instructor for the school and have two other instructors. Holiday Coast Yachting is a Royal Yachting Association and Yachting Australia accredited school. We teach students from beginner level as competent crew, to international commercial qualifications that allow the holder to skipper vessels up to 200 tonnes. Holiday Coast Yachting is a small, intimate schoo. We pride ourselves on offering personalised training and as such, we are able to cater to all requirements and timeframes for learning. We have no commercial involvement with Coffs Harbour Yacht Club, other than requests that our students join up as members.
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ft d l b meet/race? t/ ? How often does th the club Coffs Harbour Yacht Club races through summer every Thursday evening (called the Twilight Series) and through winter on the odd Saturday or Sunday. None of the racing is carried out using spinnakers, due to the category format and insurance requirements. What sort of yacht do you sail? I own an Australian built Sydney 41 yacht named B52. It is a racer/cruiser, designed for races such as Sydney to Hobart. experienced crews from Tell us about it ... If the conditionsh, ug Sydney. The boat and It was built in 1995 and are windy and roing safety equipment need to we will be push to has been owned by me boat and crew ng, be prepared, and there is since 2004 after being the limit of breaki ep a mountain of paperwork demasted in the 1998 ke to ng while tryi . that has to be complied fe sa Sydney to Hobart and being ew cr r ou with. A number of the crew rebuilt. must do a Sea Survival course, She is in Commercial 2C must have radio operators Survey and has Category 2 racing licences and must have senior first aid. accreditation and RYA/YA accreditation. We try to get sponsors, as this cuts down We hear you’re captaining a team in this on the crew costs – it costs Holiday Coast year’s Pittwater to Coffs race. Have you Yachting approximately $20,000 each year been involved in the race before? to do this race. This year our sponsors are We are competing in the 2012 Pittwater Holiday Coast Yachting, Plaza Medical Centre to Coffs race series that begins on 2 January. (Dr Andrew Duguid) and Yokohama Tyres B52 and myself have competed in this race (Ross Thomson – Bob Jane T-Marts), OAS series 6 previous times, always with a crew Bookkeeping (Diane Leach). made up of mainly students, who have never Who else is part of your team, and what raced offshore before. In the last 2 years of role(s) do they play? our entries, we placed 2nd in the race, and • Paul D’Olier – Skipper 2nd in the series, and 3rd in the series, in our • Andrew Duguid – Watch-leader, paperwork PHS division. organiser and of course, medico (has done 3 What is your plan of attack for this year’s previous Pittwater to Coffs) race? • Graham Patterson – Watch-leader and Our plan is to try and repeat the previous all round fixit man (has done 5 previous results, and maybe do better. Unfortunately, Pittwater to Coffs) we can’t plan how we will approach the • Lorenz Beckett – crew race until the night before, as weather and • Ross Thomson – crew conditions rule our decisions. • Ross Forbes – crew What sort of preparation is involved for • Diane Leach – crew a race like the Pittwater to Coffs? • Greg Rolfe – crew It begins with finding a crew, training • Steve Webb – crew (has done 1 previous the crew on spinnakers and boat handling Pittwater to Coffs). that will equip them to be competitive with
All crew are involved in navigation and sail handling throughout the race. Land crew are Sylvia D’Olier and Sheryl Duguid, who travel to Sydney prior to the race with a trailer full of racing equipment and very importantly, provisions for the crew, and then travel back with a trailer full of cruising equipment on the 2 January after the start of the race. What are some of the challenges you face out on the water? Of course, the weather plays a major part. If the conditions are windy and rough, we will be pushing boat and crew to the limit of breaking, while trying to keep our crew safe. This is a risky sport in these conditions. Whatever the weather throws at us, the challenge will be to perform with minimal sleep for 30 plus hours and navigate safely close to the coast, while maintaining maximum performance out of the boat and crew throughout the whole race. For someone who is just starting out in sailing, what advice can you offer? Begin by contacting a sailing school if you are interested in sailing yachts, or your local sailing club if you are interested in dinghy sailing. Thanks Paul. Good luck with the race!
the plug! For more information, visit www.holidaycoastyachting.com.au
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coffs coast focus 37
focusinterview.
Billy
At only 17 years of age, Billy White is well on his way to a hugely successful theatre career. Billy is an accomplished actor and director, writes his own music and is an independent film maker. FOCUS talks to Billy about his blossoming career and upcoming productions.
White.
W
hen where you initially introduced to theatre? I first started in theatre when I was around 7 years old. I was taking lessons from Jennie Cullen, a veteran performer in the area. She ran a class, and I started alongside her and learnt the ropes as I got older. Theatre is a tedious thing, because you’ve got to learn via watching everyone else. So just by watching a lot of theatre performances when I was younger, I really just took to it. I was never a big reader, so I found theatre as another way of having literature read to me by watching a performance. As I got older, I started getting into music, and in high school I attended a couple of talent identification programs to get my name out there. I did my first main production, Hello Dolly in 2008, and the following year I was cast as The Artful Dodger in Oliver at The Jetty Theatre. That was a stepping stone and was quite a big role to take on. That year I was also offered the role of Billy Luckett in The Simple Gift. That book is on the Board of Studies HSC reading list, so Sue Dickinson of Bootlace Productions had to adapt it to stage, and we ran it 2 years in a row – including this year at the Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival. That was quite a heavy role, but it was fantastic and I got a lot of credentials for it. More recently, you were cast in RENT… Yes! I got my major lead role in RENT through the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company, which was fantastic. That went really well and ran over 4 weeks. I got a lot more overwhelmingly positive feedback than I thought I would. So that really set me off to get a lot of other roles. And you’ve won a couple of awards, haven’t you? Yes, in May I won the Mid North Coast Young Performing Artist Award, so that was an honour. It was through the Coffs
38 coffs coast focus.
Harbour Eisteddfod group. I won the 2010 Quota Award. I can’t remember the full name, but the Coffs Harbour high schools all send out a worthy nominee, someone who has committed a lot to music and drama at the high school, and I was lucky enough to win that. Recently you started working with Amanda Scott on TREAD. How did that come about? Well, I directed my first show last year through the Jetty Theatre Youth Program, with Amanda as my assistant director. This year I wanted to work on something a bit modern and up to date, but something a bit small. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, until a touring show landed in Coffs Harbour called The Bad Boys Of Musical Theatre. It featured 2 young performers from Melbourne and a pianist, and they basically did a really crude version of musical theatre – and it was really amazing. These guys were just improvising off the cusp, and I walked away from that and said to Amanda that I wanted her to direct a show very similar to that with me and 2 other boys my age in it. My main inspiration was ‘40s musicals, so I really wanted to go back to the old days and create a show set in the ‘40s and ‘50s, with old characters like Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire. I got 2 other young local performers, Nathan Booth and Luke Fowler, to join me in the show. The way I describe the show to most people is with the phrase “professional minimalism”. It’s a really minimal show, with just a pianist and us 3 boys. We talk and use a lot of humour, crack jokes about the ‘50s and put on accents! It’s an all age show, for people aged 5 to 85, really. We want people to come along and get a bit of magic from the idea of the old style of performing. There’s a lot of contemporary theatre out there, so I thought, “Why not go back to the traditional musical theatre of the ‘40s and spice it up with a real youth take on things?”
Us three boys and Amanda are putting our creative minds together, improvising different scenes, characters, accents, and then piecing it together slowly. Working that way instead of working off a script lets you have a lot of freedom as a performer, and it’s a really generous thing of Amanda to do as a director. The people working on TREAD are all young. Our production designer is a young graphic artist, Nathan and Luke are both my age, and the pianist is also 17. It’s a real youth dominated show, but with a more mature and professional approach. At only 17, you have a bright future ahead of you. What are your goals? I should mention another of my passions … This year I won the Janison Short Sharp Film Festival, with a film I produced alongside a boy called Nick Wagland. We’ve done a lot of short films together, but this was our first professional one. We won the overall best film award and the people’s choice award, so that was a real honour. So towards the future I’m aiming to get into musical theatre, theatre and probably a lot of independent film as well. Next year I’m going to be working with a lot of local film makers and a couple from Sydney. Independent filmmaking is something I really have a passion for – besides theatre, of course. Aiming for the future, I’m going to try and get a bunch of everything under my belt, to take me where I want to go. If I can have a mix of musical theatre, theatre, film and my own music that I write, then I’ve always got something to back me up! Thanks Billy.
the plug. TREAD will be on show at The Jetty Memorial Theatre on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 February. For tickets and information, call 6652 8088 or visit www.jettytheatre.com.au
coffs coast focus 39
W O M EN IN BU SIN ES S COV ER PAG E
40 coffs coast focus.
focus feature Wome Women en in in business
Karen Di Nicola.
Coffs Harbour Acupuncture Clinic
Position: PPartner/Acupuncturist. /A i The Coffs Harbour Acupuncture Clinic was established 21 years ago in Coffs Harbour, originally on Grafton Street, and then moved to its current location at 87 West High Street 15 years ago. The practice is owned and run by myself (Karen) and my husband Bruno. Within my general Acupuncture practice, I have a special interest in fertility and women’s health and am well versed in the IVF protocol programme. I am the only qualified practitioner on the Mid North Coast to offer the Qi Beauty facial, which is an innovative skin treatment that uses 24 carat gold-plated magnets to help stimulate the cells and energise skin affected by factors such as smoking, illness and sun damage. I am also fully qualified in Constitutional Facial Acupuncture Renewal. Since moving to Coffs Harbour from Sydney nearly 22 years ago, I have increased my portfolio to be able to offer services and treatments for today’s woman. With the constant demand to progress with the new and diverse approaches to today’s remedies and treatments, I feel that I can offer a service that is unique and very much a growing industry, that is natural and has proven very successful. The most enjoyable part of living in Coffs Harbour I would say are the people, the climate and the lifestyle that living by the coast has to offer. I love photography, and living here on the Coffs Coast offers something new and beautiful to photograph each and every day. The best advice I have been given in business is to be passionate about what you do and never settle for second best.
Julie Gowty.
Cafe Aqua
Shirley Franzi & Jenni Bond
Choices Flooring
Position: Owner/Manageress.
Positions Administration/Sales.
Tell us about your business: The café is a family operated
Tell us about your business: The store has gone from strength
business based in the old beach hut on Ocean Parade. By retaining
to strength, staying abreast with the floor covering manufacturers’
the beach hut theme, we have created a place for locals and visitors
trends, technology and developments.
to enjoy a coffee and a meal in a breezy, comfortable atmosphere.
What makes your business stand out above your competitors?
What makes your business stand out above your
The store is locally owned and operated and has over 52 years of
competitors? We can cater for up to 90 people, utilising the deck,
flooring experience. We offer modern products with consistent and
inside and alfresco. We have always maintained that specialising in
reliable service from staff members. We have the benefits of being
‘Paul Bassett Signature Blend’ coffee, teamed with delicious fresh
part of the Choices buying group, which provides product and
food and good old-fashioned table service is what gives us an
pricing support, Triple Guarantee for product, service and warranty.
edge. This formula has given us great success for the past 7 years.
What has your business accomplished in 2011, and what is
In addition, never losing sight of our customer base.
your future goal? Fresh brand name change incorporating new
What are your business goals for the next 12 months?
environmentally friendly products to suit our customers’ needs. Our
Lift the marketing and profile the café through different sources,
goal is to keep the Choices Group the Number 1 carpet retailer in
like a website. Maintain our staff training and customer service and
Australia.
to become more involved in the community.
What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?
What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?
The friendly people, great climate and ease of access to all facilities.
The climate. Through the café I have found Coffs people to be
Coffs has always had a country town feel in a growing and
genuine, friendly and supportive.
developing city.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in
business? The best business advice I have been given is to work
business? Treat everyone with the respect they deserve, provide the
hard, be honest, trustworthy, never give up and have a good work
right assistance for all to gain complete satisfaction and to provide
ethic.
the best service to the best of our ability.
We’ll help you find the floor you’ve been searching for
Carpet
Timber, Laminate & Bamboo
Vinyl
Rugs
Choices Coffs Harbour - 6652 2473 48 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour
choicesflooring.com.au
coffs coast focus 41
Women in business focus feature
“
To be able to maintain the loyalty and repeat business from our customers – this requires ever improving standards..
”
Innovative women.
GeoLINK Coffs Harbour
At GeoLINK LINK we aim i to b be lleaders d iin sustainable i bl d design i and environmental management. We strive to make a valuable, long-term contribution to the communities in which we work and live, for the clients we serve and for the people we employ. GeoLINK’s Coffs Harbour office consists of a team of 12 staff, and part of this team is a group of modern, innovative and strong women who help create a perfect balance of professional and administrative skills amongst their male counterparts. Kim Fuller is the project co-ordinator and ensures project deadlines and budgets are kept in check. Anna Lloyd is our new experienced ecologist, recently joining our busy team of four ecologists. Ali McCallum, our resident Environmental Scientist, specialises in acid sulfate soil, agricultural, land contamination and bushfire assessments. The administrative team of Kim Casson and Cate Walsh round up the women in the Coffs office. These two organised women job share the position of office co-ordinator, as well as maintaining roles in Quality Assurance, OH&S and marketing. These women, together with the team at GeoLINK including ecologists, engineers, scientists, planners and landscape architects, can personally assist clients with expert local knowledge and skills.
GeoLINK Helping to create a sustainable Mid North Coast for over 20 years
Planning | Engineering | Landscape Architecture Environmental Auditing | Ecology For help with your next project visit us online at www.geolink.net.au PO Box 1446 COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 02 6651 7666
quality solutions sustainable future
42 coffs coast focus.
Jennifer Dowd.
Amber Tiles
Tara and Kerri Johns.
Rapid Clean North Coast
Position Franchisee/Owner.
Tell us about your business: We supply the North Coast
Tell us about your business: We are suppliers of natural stone, tiles and pavers to thousands of happy customers in Coffs. I was raised in Coffs and love being able to help my friends – present and future!
region with quality cleaning products, paper products and
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Our product range is extensive and we are able to offer our customers advice and service on indoor and outdoor flooring. Our staff are extremely knowledgeable and are all qualified colour/design consultants. Happy staff means happy customers, and all our staff have all been with us for well over 4 years. They are professional and confident in what advice they provide to our customers. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? To be able to maintain the loyalty and repeat business from our customers – this requires ever improving standards. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? To continue to grow our business into broader markets and to be the builders’ shop of choice. What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? My kids growing up in a wonderful environment, my friends and my surfboard! (Woops! And my husband!)
machinery. What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Our extensive range is enhanced by our shareholding in the Rapid Group Co-Op, with over 30 stores Aust. wide. This ensures we maintain competitive pricing and quality control. We also pride ourselves on providing exceptional after sales service. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? Our business has been running very successfully, which we put down to quality products and dedication of our staff – and to add to this, we have entered the online shopping market! What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Our workshop is expanding, and there will be more Rapid vans on the road to achieve the best possible service to our very much valued customers. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? To sell products that last ... QUALITY IS REMEMBERED, LONG AFTER PRICE IS FORGOTTEN!
focus feature Women in busin business
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In store our staff all want to ensure our customers enjoy the shopping experience.
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Ann Rosewood.
Emporium Bellingen
I have been running Emporium Bellingen for 25 years, and as I have changed over the years, so has the business evolved. Housed in the historic Hammond and Wheatley emporium, Emporium Bellingen offers a department store experience with emphasis on service. In the last 12 months, we have fitted out a room to be used as a consultation space for beauty therapy, a design incubator, workshops and a special environment to display formal wear. After 6 months’ long service leave, with the wind in my sails, I am now busy with new management strategies. We are about to relight the shop with the help of a green energy grant and Planet Lighting. We’re also working on staff development and embracing the new reality of retail. We are thinking carefully about what we stock and who made it/where it is made. In the next 12 months I’d like to introduce more local products, host guest designers, introduce a retail training program (with emphasis on window dressing and merchandising), complete a management course with LMA, establish the beauty therapy services further and continue to mentor local designers. The best advice I live by comes from the teachings of the Buddha. Happiness is hard work.
Cassie Baldwin. Baldwin n.
InZa
If you are driving along Harbour Drive in the Coffs Harbour City Centre, you will spot a large purple InZa sign next to the NAB. There you will find InZa, an independent retail fashion store for women of all ages. The store has been evolving since its establishment 18 months ago, with the consolidation of key labels such as WISH and the introduction of new labels to Coffs such as Shilla and Lola vs Harper. At InZa, we are proud to support city centre businesses. This has seen us advertise jointly with a number of similar minded businesses this year. Like ourselves, these businesses recognise that the City Centre is an integral part of the Coffs Harbour landscape and should be enjoyed by all. In store, our staff all want to ensure our customers enjoy the shopping experience.
Deborah Greenwood.
Russells Prime Quality Meats
Russell and I share a common passion in the success of our business. We want to consistently deliver high quality products and personalised customer service. Our product presentation is critical to our success – typically, our first point of contact with our customers. Being present in store and managing our shop ensures our customers receive the personalised and consistent level of service they have come to expect. 12 years in business in Coffs Harbour has seen Russells Prime Quality Meats gain a reputation of consistently delivering high quality products. We have established a solid brand status by ensuring we deliver high quality products. Customer loyalty has been established and remains critical to our business. Strength in the brand provides repeat business – this allows regular customer contact, giving us the opportunity to enhance the shopping experience – personalised service. My key responsibilities at Russells Prime Quality Meats are: Managing front of shop customer service and customer service staff, as well as overseeing all front of shop duties, including; • Customer service – co-ordination of meat display
While there is no denying the presence of online shopping, the computer cannot give the customer the face to face service each individual shopper deserves.
• Preparing customer orders
Come in and surprise yourself with what the City Centre and InZa has to offer.
• Ensuring all OH&S procedures are explained to staff and followed
• Preparation of several specialised add on projects • Maintaining product replenishment and window presentation correctly.
coffs coast focus 43
focus cus ffeature cu e a ture ea t u re tu re Women n in business foc
Kathryn Thompson. Your Kitchen Shop
Rhonda Flanagan. Coffs Harbour Toyota and Hyundai
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? We offer an ever increasing depth to our range of Kitchenwares and accessories. Staff training is paramount to our business, and equally as important is the detail to merchandising our products. It is important to make a visual impact when displaying products.
Position Financial Controller.
What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? The introduction of our website is an exciting step into the future for the Kitchen Shop. We have also expanded our services into cake decorating, offering classes and of course, all the necessary equipment.
What achievements has your business accomplished in the
What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Ever since the opening of our flagship store at Park Beach Plaza, we have taken to steps to diversify and grow our business to accommodate the needs of our customers. The product ranges are growing and changing regularly, and we would like to expand in conjunction with this.
What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Striving
What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? The people, the lifestyle and our wonderful beaches.
for 10 years and returning to Coffs Harbour, it makes one really
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? ‘Eye line is the buy line’, and merchandise to that philosophy.
44 coffs coast focus.
Tell us about your business: We are an award-winning new and used car dealership, including service and spare parts departments. What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Our branding – Toyota and Hyundai. Our people, along with our training reputation and our corporation support. last 12 months? Being able to sustain profitability during the most turbulent year in Toyota’s history, with the tsunami in Japan and floods in Thailand drastically reducing stock availability. Also, being able to retain all staff members during this most challenging time. to raise my standing within the Toyota & Hyundai Corporations by getting the highest ranking possible for our dealership in administration and business reporting. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? After working in a busy dealership on Parramatta Road, Sydney appreciate what we have here at our fingertips – great lifestyle, beautiful beaches, airport, train station, golf courses, hinterland, all within minutes. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? Time management is the key – work smarter, not harder.
Lynda Soderlund.
LSA
I am Lynda Soderlund, a local lady, Accountant and Finance Broker. I would like to introduce my associate, Simran Gill, Accountant. The last twelve months have been fabulous for my business. I have seen my dream of a ‘One-stop Shop’ for my clients come together, where Simran and I attend to all their accounting, business advice and finance needs. I see my job as giving you peace of mind and confidence, that the job we do has been done, and done well, so that you can do your job and when you walk out of my office, your mind is already working on your business. My goal for this year is to work closely with my clients and assist in increasing their overall profitability, which then improves that ever evasive work/life balance. A great decision for my business growth was providing finance broking services to our clients, which has proven to be very popular and successful. As Finance Brokers, we can source funds from over 30 lenders, both banks and non banks, at no cost to our clients. The savings in our clients’ time alone by using this service, where we do all the legwork to locate and compare loan deals, has been astounding. See you in the New Year...
Ella Baché is a “leader in skincare salons, product and education in Australia.
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Pandora Colledge.
Emerald Beach Plumbing
Position: Director/Secretary. Tell us about your business: Started out 15 years ago as a one man show; we now have 7 cars on the road, an amazing team of plumbers and the very best window to our business – Bernie. She has the most amazing work ethic, which is all about looking after our customers. We pride ourselves on our customer service, attention to detail, professionalism and efficiency. It has been my job to create new systems that work with our customers. We are always evolving, and I am extremely proud of the business we have become. Pete and I are a great team, as I have a property management background, and he possesses plumbing and building. We are ideas people and take pleasure in moving forward and always embrace challenge. What makes your business stand out above your competitors? We listen to our customers’ needs and have developed our systems accordingly. Reviewing our staff and existing customer base regularly guarantees we are always ahead. We look at our weaknesses objectively and set goals for improvement. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? We have had four apprentices complete their courses, two nominated for apprentice of the year, Bernie in the top three candidates for trainee of the year, and Brendan our current apprentice nominated for Pride of Workmanship of the year. Our business is still maintaining its stronghold in this economic climate.
Sarah Armstrong. Sarah Armstrong Architects
Carmen Blackett.
Position: Principal Architect. Tell us about your business: Armstrong Architects offers both commercial and residential services and focus on the delivery of truly exceptional, unique design solutions while embracing client expectations. We have a passion for sustainable and eco-friendly design and incorporate this in every aspect of our work. Sarah is a Registered Architect and member of the Australian Institute of Architects. She grew up on the north coast of NSW and after working in Sydney, London and Edinburgh, established herself back in Coffs Harbour in 2005. Sarah has won design awards for various residential projects in the area over the past few years, including ‘Best
Salon owner Carmen Blackett is a qualified Beauty Therapist, with over 8 years of industry experience. Carmen opened her salon 3½ years ago. Tell us about your business: We are a professional Beauty Salon that pride ourselves on providing the utmost customer service. Ella Baché Coffs Harbour’s menu of service is extensive and includes specialised facial and body treatments, massage, waxing, tanning, pedicure, manicure and tinting. Strict hygiene standards, highest quality products and excellent customer service are paramount for the salon.
Renovation under 200K’ and ‘Best use of Colour’. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? Having achieved considerable success in residential architecture, the firm has branched into retail and commercial renovations and fit-outs. We have recently transformed the NSW Fire Command centre, the Cancer Council offices and are currently working on a major refurbishment of one of the larger accountancy firms in Coffs Harbour. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? To get the message across to all businesses in the area that engaging an architect can make their renovation or internal fit-out a hassle free process. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? Always give the clients a little bit more than they were expecting.
Ella Baché
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Ella Baché is a leader in skincare salons, product and education in Australia. The Ella Baché philosophy of ‘no two skins are alike’ epitomises the brand’s unique method of skin diagnosis and tailored skincare solutions for individuals to achieve healthy glowing skin. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? I have gained some wonderful qualified therapists during this year, which has given us a valuable team of 9 beauty therapists who are very passionate and dedicated to Ella Baché and to providing great treatments. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? I would like to introduce the latest in skin technology equipment to the salon, so our clients can experience modern skincare!
coffs coast focus 45
Women in business focus feature
We meet some e really nice people le e holidaying or just st passing through.. Many have become return customers.
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Kerry Bottrell.
Nu-Era Kitchens & Bathrooms
Amy Wright.
Helene Enevoldson.
e Degrees Clothing
East Coast Surf School
Position: Office Manager/Administration. About Nu-Era Kitchens & Bathrooms: Nu-Era team work effectively and professionally; our customers are our priority. Our team of staff supports each other in achieving our customers’ dreams. We have an experienced pool of subcontractors and interior designers.
Position: Manager.
Position: Proprietor and Master Surf Coach.
Tell us about your business: E Degrees was originally opened in the Mall many years ago and was brought out to Park Beach Plaza around 5 years ago. The Wright family took over in early 2009, and we haven’t looked back. We have given the store a makeover and refined our labels to offer an edgy streetwear look for guys and girls.
East Coast Surf School is Australia’s first professional Surf
What makes your business stand out in this industry? Modern technology allows customers to see their newly designed kitchen in a 3D plan, with Des allowing them to visualise their dream. We specialise in kitchens, bathrooms and any commercial/residential building projects.
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Everything! The labels, the atmosphere in the store and our friendly staff.
in their skills can’t be learnt overnight!
What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? E Degrees was nominated for an Excellence in Merchandising Award at the 2011 Park Beach Plaza awards nights. My husband Graeme spends a lot of time keeping our store fresh and interesting. When you have to come up with the ideas yourself, it can be very challenging! He does an amazing job.
the board to the needs of each customer. We also supply wetsuits
What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? Tourism. We meet some really nice people holidaying or just passing through. Many have become return customers.
provided, with a focus on safety education
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? In my last job, my boss always referred to himself as our ‘workmate’ rather than our ‘BOSS’. It’s a mutual respect thing; you don’t have to be the ‘big bad boss’ to run a successful business. You just have to be a good leader, and your team will follow. That’s what I want for my staff.
our programs. We run Surf Sisters 6.30, 9.30 and 1pm daily –
What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? Nu-Era has grown impressively. Now with a building license, we have much more to offer – a professional service and commitment to our customers. Our business goals for the next 12 months? Since obtaining our full building license and our second builder on board, Adam, our goal is to pursue more building/renovation work. Also, to improve on more modern designs with our latest technology and to be providers of the ‘best practice’ product and services. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? Friendliness of the Coffs people and the relaxed, unpretentious lifestyle.
46 coffs coast focus.
School! With 16+ years more operational experience than our competitors, we have already worked through the numerous situations thrown at us. Working in an open environment and with all types of people, keeping them safe, happy and advancing We have very good equipment. Having over 70 softboards, 20 bodyboards and 20 hardboards in our quiver means we match all year round. We run Grom Mad Surf Camps every day, every School holidays, based out of the Coffs Yatch Club for Ages 5 - 15 years. Activities include surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, jetty jumping and beach games. Fun instruction and all equipment is The other bonus is we have 8 instructors, half of whom are female, and female instructors bring an enriching dimension to lessons run by girls for girls of all ages and all abilities. During the last week of January, we are offering girls of all ages a FREE T-Shirt when they book in for a surf lesson with our SURF SISTERS!
focus feature fea a ture t u rre tu e W Women Wo om me en iin en nb bu business usiness
Gentle and safe techniques to better align the spine, helping the nervous system and body to function properly.
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Judy McNeill.
Judith McNeill Chiropractic
Judy McNeill counts herself as one of those lucky people who truly loves her job. She knew by the age of ten that she wanted to be a chiropractor and has been in practice for 8 years. There have been a few interruptions along the way – namely her two children, Alexandra and Jack. But despite the challenges of motherhood and running a practice, Judy says that “being a mum has actually helped me in my work. I treat many pregnant mums and bubs. Having been there myself is a real plus as a practitioner.”
Avalon Connor.
Avalon Connor Conveyancing
Legalese and jumping through legal hoops are reasons many people dread buying and selling properties. “I can take the
Anne Blair.
Coffs Harbour Toyota and Coffs Harbour Hyundai
Position: Marketing & HR. What makes your business stand out above your competitors?
stress out of the whole transaction,” Avalon Connor said.
We have the two most exciting brands in the car industry. Toyota is an
Sit down with Avalon Connor in your home or her office, and she
unchallenged leader, and Hyundai is one of the fastest growing car
can arrange everything you need to complete the deal. Avalon
companies in the world.
Connor Conveyancing can help you with everything to do with
What has your business accomplished in the last 12 months?
contracts, negotiations, or organising building inspections and
The biggest achievement is that we have thrived in a very tough year.
surveyor’s reports, if needed. “As all I do is conveyancing law, I can
Amidst all this, Toyota remained on a steady path. The brand was even
clearly explain mortgages, refinancing, property deposit bonds,
awarded globally for its ability to forge ahead, focus on safety and
auctions and subdivisions.”
quality, remain green and adapt to a new reality.
“I speak English – I don’t speak gobbledegook,” she laughed. “A lot
There is no doubt that pregnancy can be tough. Weight gain, postural changes and hormones make it more likely for a pregnant woman to suffer with spinal issues. Judy uses gentle and safe techniques to better align the spine, helping the nervous system and body to function properly.
What are your business goals for the next 12 months? We aim to
of people say, ‘you explain this properly – no-one has ever explained
capitalise on the new models and new campaigns which are coming
this to me as well as you have’.” Take advantage of her 30 years’
thick and fast from both our brands. This is a bonanza year for the
experience in property transactions – the last decade running Avalon
new-model cycle from Toyota, and we will be perfectly placed to make
Connor Conveyancing – and minimise potential legal problems.
the most of that resurgence.
“Shade sails are a prime example – you have to get Council
What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? No
Pregnant women who have chiropractic care are more likely to have a natural delivery – a shorter, less painful labour, requiring less intervention and medication. A great outcome for mum, baby (and dad!)s
approval if they are over a certain size, and some installers don’t
commute! And it is so much easier to network and make contacts.
tell their customers this.” Illegal constructions such as shade sails,
What’s the best piece of business advice you have ever been
verandahs and pergolas can cause problems when properties are
given? I had a very hard boss when I started in Sydney in PR. She used
sold, and she can guide customers through this legal maze.
to say to us when we made an error: “It shouldn’t be happening at
Judy treats people of all ages – from infants to the elderly. She enjoys a challenge and loves helping people to live with less pain, better function and good health.
You get personal, one-on-one service with Avalon Connor – instead
your level.” At the time we were all juniors, so our ‘level’ was pretty low
of explaining everything repeatedly to as many as four staff
anyway! But she wanted us to rise above our status and carry ourselves
members – as you can at larger firms.
at a much higher level, which I’ve come to adopt into my career.
coffs coast focus 47
Women in bu business ussiiness focus feature
Choice Magazine’s No 1
PICS IN PHOTOS FOLDER
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From Ancient PICS IN PHOTOS Egyptian tombs to Cambodian FOLDER orphanages, Julie embraces what each destination presents her.
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Sue Woodward.
Coffs Harbour Toyota and Hyundai
Position: Stock Control New Vehicle. Tell us about your business: We’re the franchise for Hyundai and Toyota and a range of quality used cars and parts and service for these brands. What makes you stand out? Pride in quality of showrooms, service centre and the quality vehicles Hyundai and Toyota produce. With great customer service from our friendly staff, Skinner Motors is always at the forefront of being recognised as one of the most popular and respected businesses in Coffs Harbour. Any recent achievements? The last 12 months have been hard for car dealers. The Japanese tsunami, earthquakes, floods all impacted supply of vehicles. Customers rarely understand the rising costs of business ownership, which makes ‘deal shopping’ particularly hard on local, small business. Warren Skinner still managed to re-vamp the showroom and remains committed to serving the Coffs Coast at the highest level possible. What are your business goals? I’m a trustworthy employee of 33 years. I pride myself on doing the job well – and will continue to do so in 2012. What do you love about the Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast offers a wide variety of business and pleasure for all age groups. I have satisfaction in knowing I am part of that group. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The best piece of advice offered to me, which I put into practice, is to do it once and do it well.
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Julie Larkey.
Harvey World Travel
Recently turning 50 and celebrating in style with a New York New York themed black and white party, Julie Larkey owner/operator of Harvey World Travel Coffs Harbour has an accumulation of knowledge and experience she’s delighted to share. Specialising in cruising, Julie recently received a Harvey World Travel’s ‘Cruise Legend Award’ in recognition of her work in 2011. Having visited all of the great rivers of the world, the Amazon, Nile, Seine, Thames, Mekong and Rhine to name a few, means Julie is able to go beyond the brochure, offering clients a real ‘look and feel’ of their chosen destinations. Affectionately known to friends as the travel Guru, Julie ‘steps outside the square’ when she travels. From Ancient Egyptian tombs to Cambodian orphanages, Julie embraces what each destination presents her. Over a glass of Morse Code Shiraz at Fiasco Bar & Restaurant, Julie explains: “I honestly believe that everything I do, every aspiration, comes from my mother giving me confidence. She taught me that it is ok for girls to get into the big wide world.” For all your travel needs, visit Julie and her team at Harvey World Travel, Park Beach Plaza, or phone 6652 6555.
PICS IN PHOTOS FOLDER
Isabella Brandli. Coffs Cleaner World What: Vacuum Cleaners – Domestic and Commercial – sales, service, repairs and spares. Steam Mops, Shampooers and Cleaning Products. Where Coffs Cleaner World, 27 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour. Opposite Aldi’s, with parking and entry at rear. Coffs Cleaner World is an independent vacuum cleaner store, established in 1991. Isabella believes in offering top-quality, reliable vacuums and excellence in after-sales service. She has the know-how to find exactly the parts you’re after and to offer you the right advice for all your cleaning needs. It’s more than just buying a vacuum cleaner. Isabella’s goal is to ensure that all your cleaning problems are solved. Whatever you need your vacuum cleaner to deal with – allergies, pet hair, timber floors, carpet stains, etc – Isabella can help. Coffs Cleaner World is the expert when it comes to vacuum cleaners: it’s a one-stop shop for vacuum cleaner sales, repairs, service and spares (bags, filters, tools, etc). For friendly service, and quick results, whatever your needs – domestic, commercial or ducted inbuilt vacuum systems – discover how easy it can be. Visit Coffs Cleaner World at 27 Park Beach Road (opp Aldi’s, park and enter at rear), Coffs Harbour. Phone 6651 3277, email coffscleanerworld@tsn.cc
Jakinta Ryan.
So ... certainly amazingly gifted business b women are in abundance at Pushkar. P Here are just three of them.
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Donna L.Barnard. Tina Cashman. Tina Cashman: the Inspiration behind Pushkar Live a colourful life and be in the moment. These words sum up the business philosophy of Pushkar, as well as that of its owner and founder, Tina Cashman. An essential force behind the thriving energy centre, gallery and shop that is Pushkar is the inspirational group of women that Tina has gathered together over the past 14 years since she first opened Pushkar in Coffs Harbour. Worlds away from just a retail shop and also complementing Pushkar are an acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, four female masseuses, four female clairvoyants and a female body piercer. Tina also employs nine dynamically focused female retail staff, without whom Tina could not weave the magic that is Pushkar today. So ... certainly amazingly gifted business women are in abundance at Pushkar.
Here are just two of them: Jakinta Ryan: Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist. Jakinta has been specialising as an acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist at Pushkar for the past five years. She began her career in complementary medicine over 20 years ago at the Wat Po temple in Bangkok and later gained her Bachelor and Masters of Health Science from the University of Technology in Sydney and completed a hospital internship in Guangzhou, China. According to Jakinta, the coming year is an exciting time, as acupuncture and Chinese herbs will be nationally registered. This reflects the acceptance of Chinese medicine by the medical fraternity and the general public as an effective means of medical treatment. By incorporating the well-designed prescriptions of acupuncture and Chinese herbs, Jakinta can
restore energy and disperse pathogens without depleting the client’s strength. This is crucial in the treatment of chronic illness such as lower back, neck and general joint pain, anxiety disorders, skin disorders such as psoriasis and gynaecological disorders. Jakinta’s acupuncture is also excellent in the treatment of acute disorders such as sprain, strains, GIT disorders and viral infections such as Ross River and Barmah Forest virus. As a New Year special during January, Jakinta is offering clients a complimentary 15 minute massage with all 1 hour acupuncture appointments. Bliss! Donna L.Barnard – Clairvoyant Of proud Celtic heritage, Donna has been a professional Tarot Consultant for over 20 years. She is also an accomplished Palmist and Astrologer. Formally she has trained at the Faculty for Astrological Study, Oxford University and is a professional member of the Tarot Guild of Australia,
as well as a past consultant for the Tarot Association of the British Isles. With considerable experience in the corporate sector, she has consulted closely with many event managers, including the team at Luna Park and the Rainbow Serpent festivals. Highly regarded in her field, her regular clientele includes politicians, celebrities and many high profile business people. Donna brings to her work a great sense of passion and enthusiasm, which translates readily to her clients. As a professional consultant, she has featured on BBC and ABC radio, national television, and in the Australian and British print media, both predicatively and as a columnist. As a New Year special during January, Donna is offering her clients a complimentary 10 minute palmistry reading at the completion of each 45 minute Tarot consultation.
coffs coast focus 49
re Women in business focus feature
Learn rn from your yo our mistakes kess and and n don don’t on n’t make them hem he m twice, ttw wic ce, and and put y ou o ursel elff in in alwayss put yourself err person’ perrson pe n’s sshoes h ess ho another fferent eren er e t point po p oint of o for a diff view.
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Sue Hutchison. (Owner/manager)
Sue Beehag. (Company Director/ Registered Nurse)
Coffs Harbour Olympic Pool and FitFactory PT
Bananacoast Home Nursing
About the business: The Coffs Harbour Olympic pool a fun place to visit. Pool is a one stop facility for fitness, Learn to Our goals for the next 12 months are to Swim, Squad training, Water Polo, Aquarobics, constantly improve our programs and make the lap swimming and fun. The undercover heated Coffs Harbour Olympic Pool the first choice for fun 25 m pool is shaded in the summer and warm in the all year round. winter, allowing for year round fitness I love living and working on the Coffs and learning. The inflatable water Coast because of the wide range obstacle course is great fun in of activities available – especially the holidays, or can be hired in the water. All elements of s es Our fitn for birthday parties for 7 to nature come together to create a im sw and 15 year olds. The kiosk has beautiful environment to get out programs are st great coffee for parents to among the be and have fun and get fit. Coffs enjoy while the kids play in Coffs Harbour is also full of friendly people has to offer. the zero depth splash pad or all sharing the beautiful coast have their lessons. together.Last Wednesday morning Our business stands out at 6am we had squad and fitness because it is the only facility of its classes going, a running group on the kind in the area. Our fitness and swim oval and a huge cycle group riding past all at the programs are among the best Coffs Harbour has to same time. The mornings are the best time of day. offer, and our squad members get great results in The best advice I’ve received is to surround their field whether they compete in the pool or in yourself with successful people, a great team and do the surf. We have a great team who are like a big what you love. family who go out of their way to make the Coffs
50 coffs coast focus.
What make your business stand out from the rest: We provide 24hour services to clients across the Coffs Harbour and Grafton regions and have a registered nurse available for after hours emergency calls. We are locally owned and operated, and we are also the agents for Air Liquide Healthcare, providing home oxygen equipment and CPAP/sleep services to our local community. Our services are diverse and range from aged care to care for people with a physical or intellectual disability, child contact services, mobile footcare, wound care and 24 hour live in care, and I am also an accredited mental health first aide instructor and Workplace Trainer and Assessor.
We have also relocated to larger premises at 2/84-
We have also now opened our own private respite accommodation in the centre of Coffs Harbour for short term respite. We also provide cross service education to other services and support staff for residential aged care facilities.
the community and knowing we can provide
What has your business accomplished in the last 12months: In the last 12 months we have gained our accreditation through ISO: 9000, which we were working towards for the last 12 months.
What’s the best piece of advice you have been
90 Industrial Dve, Coffs Harbour, which now allows us to store our oxygen cylinders and has a state of the art training and clinical room for ongoing education for our staff. What are business goals for next 12 months? The goals for the next 12 months are to continue growing our business, and we have some exciting opportunities in training and education of local care staff within health and aged care. What do I enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? The strong relationships/partnerships we have developed with other services within a difference in someone’s life with the care we provide in a great location. Obviously the lifestyle and proximity to the beach and easy accessibility to Sydney are a bonus. given in business? Learn from your mistakes and don’t make them twice, and always put yourself in another person’s shoes for a different point of view.
focus feature Women in business Photo by Lynette Burns Photography
Semret S emre Goitom. (Managing Director)
Deborah Mauger. (Owner)
Best West Western Zebra Motel and Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar
Parry rry Jewellers Parrys
Tell us about your business: The Best Western Zebra Motel has been a long standing feature of the Coffs Harbour highway strip. My pleasure has been the increasing involvement I have had with the community since I took over managing the motel. I’ve been so openly welcomed in the short five years I have been in Coffs Harbour and have enjoyed growing with my business, as Coffs Harbour has become my home. This has been magnified with how well the local community has taken to the new and exciting direction that Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar has been making under Joel McCulla’s unique management. What makes your business stand out above your competitors? What we aim for, and what makes us unique, is our insistence on not competing with our competitors. We don’t see that as part of who we are or what we want. We let our business and the needs of our customers be the guide for what we want to accomplish and also what we provide and charge our guests – not what others are doing.
What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? Our motel has been working through a steady and thorough refurbishment to bring the facilities up to the same standard as our service, making the rooms match our smile. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Mostly we hope 2012 is the year we begin to give back to the community, which has lifted and fostered us most recently. Coffs Harbour is such a beautiful and close knit community, and we want to help the residents achieve as much for their own benefit and betterment as we can. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? There is such a beauty and intimacy that exists in this sheltered little seaside cove, with so much available within such a small area. Working barely seems like working in such surroundings. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? Always make it about quality, not quantity.
Deborah Mauger is the proud mother of 3 beautiful sons and business owner of Parrys Jewellers, a family owned and operated business established in Coffs Harbour in 1975. Parrys vision and emphasis on individuality, quality and exceptional customer service is the legacy passed down from father, Cyril Parry, to son, Michael. This continues today in their flagship store, located in the heart of the City Centre. What sets you apart from other jewellers? Parrys specialises in high grade diamonds with an exceptional cut standard, which have been independently certified. We carry the largest range of loose diamonds on the Mid North Coast. Although we design and hand make jewellery, we travel to world jewellery fairs seeing the latest jewellery trends and designs and bringing back unique one-off pieces to sell in our store. Do you offer a repair service? We offer a comprehensive repair service, ranging from
chain repairs, ring resizing, re-clawing, rhodium plating (essential in keeping your white gold jewellery looking like new), through to battery replacement and watch repairs. We are able to repair all items of jewellery without the need for these items to be sent away. All items are photographed and receipted, giving you peace of mind when leaving your treasured possessions in our care. I have some loose stones and rings I no longer wear. Do you offer a design and remodelling service? Yes! If you have any old jewellery or loose stones, come and talk to us about designing and remodelling them into something individual and special for yourself or a loved one. We love to create beautiful items that are personal one off pieces for our customers. Do you have an online store? Yes, we are excited about our recently launched website complete with an online store. You can visit our store at www.parrysjewellers.com.au
coffs coast focus 51
Women in business usiness focus feature
Janelle Heaton. aton. (Owner))
Melanie Jenkins. (Owner) Me Mel
rbour Curves – Coffs Harbour
MJ Accountants Ac
Tell us about your business: Created specifically for women, Curves offers a complete fitness and nutrition solution. The Curves 30 minute workout exercises every major muscle group and burns up to 500 calories through a proven program of strength training, cardio and stretching. What sets you apart from your competitors? Enhancing the Curves workout is CurvesSmart™, your personal coaching system.
We have club promotions and events that encourage women to support charitable causes, learn about health-related issues and forge lasting friendships as part of the global Curves community.
The Curves m 30 inute workout exercises every major muscle group and burns up to 500 calories.
CurvesSmart individualises and customises each workout by monitoring heart rate, workout intensity, range of motion and repetitions and then providing a progress report, including number of
52 coffs coast focus.
calories burned!
What’s happened at Curves in the past 12 months? Since taking over Curves Coffs Harbour in October 2011, I have been slowly getting to know my members and the business and only making subtle changes.
What plans do you have for 2012? The big changes will come in the New Year, with fresh changes to the interior and a new program that’s all hush, hush at the moment but will change ladies’s lives forever!Comes out February, so watch this space!
Melanie Jenkins started MJ Accountants 5 years ago, when she saw the need for an accounting service in the Coffs Coast area that was more than your average bean counting – a flexible, proactive approach to the entire business.
2011 has seen the success of MJ Accountants recognised on several fronts. The firm underwent a CPA Quality Assurance Review in May, achieving the highest result possible. In September, Melanie was Awarded the 2011 Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce Sunny’s Business Woman of the Year.
contact her in the office or via mobile as necessary, also going above and beyond the regular 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday service, offering extended hours and the convenience of meeting clients at their place of business. Melanie’s passion is to see clients and their businesses do well, grow and perform above expectations. MJ Accountants do not charge for simple questions, focusing instead on the important matters of how to get the most for our clients, giving them accurate advice and helping them assess their current position to get where they want or need to be.
Melanie has an excellent ability to relate to clients, understanding that business owners often struggle with running a business and the reporting obligations. Melanie is constantly striving to achieve the best for her clients and has an ‘open door’ policy, whereby clients can
MJ Accountants is committed to customer service and satisfaction, offering everything from Tax Planning, Taxation Returns and Accounting through to Buying and Selling Businesses, Retirement Planning, Business Development, Bookkeeping and so much more.
Melanie is constantly striving to achieve the best for her clients n and has an ‘ope door’ policy.
focus feature Women in business
PICS IN PHOTOS FOLDER
time, they have seen many, many, changes and improvements into the care of all people coming into our home.
Tell us about your business aim: To provide the best clinical care in a home like environment.
Carol Buchanan + Debbie Lee Coffs Harbour Legacy Nursing
(Registered Nurses)
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? We pride ourselves on allowing people to live their lives to the fullest in our community environment, that may be very different to their previous living environments What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? We continue to have achievements, and we have just been reaccredited for a further three years as we have met each the 44 standards that are required. About Carol and Debbie: Carol and Debbie have been Registered Nurses at Legacy Nursing Home for over 30 years each – Carol for 31 years and Debbie for 36 years. During this
They have been lucky to have worked with a lot of dedicated and professional nurses, doctors and other health care staff. There are many other staff members who have been at Legacy for over 20 years, and they include Linda Hoffman RN, Christine Yule RN, Debbie Cox EN, Carmen Goodenough EN, Maureen Hutchison EN, Jeanette Kutz Allied Health. There are many more who have been here over 10 years. Together, they have all created an environment where people’s lives are enhanced through a genuine love and caring for the individual person. Each and every staff member at Legacy Nursing Home should be congratulated on their achievement in providing a lasting relationship with not only the residents of our home, but their families as well.
coffs coast focus 53
Women in business focus feature
Sue Croxton and Kristie Atchison.
Heather Lush and Caral Maynard.
Blush Make-Up and Beauty Studio
The Home Nursing Group
Position: Manager and owners.
The lifestyle on the Coffs Coast is fantastic.
Tell us about your business: Blush
The heart of the city is where Kristie and
became Blush after both Kristie and Sue
Sue spend a lot of their time. All of the
moved from the Central Coast 5 years ago
unique, locally owned shops provide
and discussed our plans in a country barn in
excellence in customer service, food, coffee,
Central Bucca.
giftwares, jewellery, clothing, shoes, hair
What makes your business stand out
and beauty. The heart of the city is the place
above your competitors?
to be.
We have no competitors. We are all unique
What’s the best piece of advice you
in our own way and operate differently to
have ever been given in business?
maintain the success of our business.
To maintain a successful business, you have
What achievements has your business
to be extremely passionate about what you
accomplished in the last 12 months?
do. Kristie has been a beautician now for
Blush is growing at a fast pace, and one of
over 20 years and still enjoys her passion for
the main reasons for this is our staff. We
making people feel good.
have an excellent team, which makes the
Sue loves having a good time with lots of
working environment positive. The love of
laughter, which makes the store feel warm.
the job and making our clients feel welcome
It has had a very positive impact on the
is the reason Blush is where it is today.
business and is one of the main reasons
What do you enjoy most about working
Blush is highly regarded as one of the most
on the Coffs Coast?
successful businesses on the Coffs Coast.
54 coffs coast focus.
Tell us about your business: The Home Nursing Group provides community care to anyone needing support to live independently. Our office in Sawtell is staffed by Heather Lush (Nursing Coordinator) and Caral Maynard (Service Co-ordinator), who manage services covering the area from Woolgoolga in the north to Macksville in the south and through into Bellingen. Our services include nursing, respite, personal care, social support, disability services, transport, 24 hour live-in, overnight or holiday care. We are a DVA provider. What makes you stand above your competitors? Our staff are all trained to the highest standards and receive ongoing professional development. We believe in providing excellent, high quality service at all times, and we have a passion for care. We have staff who have specialised training in dementia and palliative care. Confidentiality is of upmost importance, and clients are always treated with dignity and respect.
What achievements have you had in the last 12 months? Since opening the Sawtell office in September 2010, we have employed a wonderful, dedicated and committed team. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? To continue to provide the highest quality client care possible and broaden our client base. To carry out our 2012 educational strategy and provide ongoing training for all staff. What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast? Being surrounded by such natural beauty and beautiful beaches, rivers and parks. Heather enjoys the ease of driving (coming from Sydney, it is a welcome change). Caral enjoys being able to walk to work each day. We both enjoy the sunshine (when it is here) too. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? The best advertising is through word of mouth; always do the best job you can.
focus feature Wo Women W om me en iin n busi business in ne essss
has over 12 years’ experience ce a solicitor and barrister in Sydney “as Rachael ”
Rachael Doland. R
Leadership Management Australia (LMA)
Lee Sames Egan Lawyers & Conveyancers Le
Rachael Doland is an equity partner at Lee Sames Egan Lawyers & Conveyancers, where she practices in the areas of property law and conveyancing, buying and selling businesses, leasing, Wills, deceased estates and estate planning. After graduating in Arts/Law from the Australian National University, she worked for 7 years at the top tier national law firm, Blake Dawson in business and commercial law areas. In 2006, she qualified and worked as a barrister in one of Sydney’s leading commercial chambers in Phillip St. Rachael, a former Woolgoolga High School student, has returned to the area to give her young sons the kind of upbringing she enjoyed. When Rachael was 5 years old, her parents made their own sea change, leaving their Sydney careers behind and, with friends, buying the Arrawarra Caravan Park. Rachael feels fortunate to be able to job share with her husband, Jason Clark, who has legal and accounting qualifications.
L eadership Leadership M anagement Management A ustralia ((LMA). LMA). Australia
Marilyn Brien.
For them, working together is a win/win scenario, enabling them to continue their careers, apply their legal and commercial skills to help local businesses and individuals and still play active roles in raising their children. “Being offered the opportunity to buy into Lee Sames Egan was a fantastic opportunity for Jason and me,” Rachael said. “I particularly value working closely with Peter Sames – a well known and well regarded local solicitor who has been practising in Coffs Harbour for over 30 years.” Rachael enjoys the range of clients she meets, including young locals buying their first home, retirees downsizing and seeking Wills and estate planning advice and investors buying and selling commercial property and businesses of all types and sizes. The firm has just launched its new website at www.leesamesegan.com.au
Names: Pictured above are Marilyn Brien, Tania Beckett, Allison Davidson and Susan Judd, four of the dynamic LMA team, who along with Les Boulle and Rod Macpherson, have been ‘changing people’s lives’ here on the North Coast for the past thirteen years. Tell us about your business: LMA, a Registered Training Organisation, has been creating exceptional results through people for forty years. Utilising our extensive network of development experts, we provide our clients with consistent professional development at over seventy locations throughout Australia and New Zealand. We provide adult learning in interactive workshops. What makes your business stand out above your competitors? The key to our success is our Unique Development Process. This process is a powerful, proven methodology that’s been enhancing the leadership skills, performance and productivity of over 115,000 people from small, medium and large organisations across Australia and New
Zealand. Through our Unique Development Process, we change and improve the way people think, interact, work and behave – providing our participants lasting behavioural changes and our clients exceptional and ongoing value and return on investment. We understand the importance of developing the ‘total person’ in all facets of their personal and professional life and know that ultimately this is the only way to boost the performance, productivity and bottom line of an organisation. What drives your team: We believe that people development can truly be a lifechanging experience: we are all passionate about the results we achieve and gain great job satisfaction through ‘making a difference’. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given in business? ‘That the key to success is to always deliver more than you expect from yourself’!
People grow your business
Ask us about our Results Guarantee
People drive your business People engineer your business People strategise your business
0 160 ver r with g o hy tne ainin r e w ar Se nts p heir t ment clie for t velop A LM nd de a
People are your business
Creating exceptional results through people. If you would like to see how our unique, proven, and guaranteed process can achieve dramatic and measurable improvements in the leadership, productivity, and performance of your people, contact us today. Marilyn Brien 0418 693 914 mbrien@lma.biz
www.LMA.biz
coffs coast focus 55
ffocus oc ocu cu us ffeature ea e a ttu atu u re re Women in busine business ne n ess ss fo
PICS IN PHOTOS FOLDER
Nicole Donovan.
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar
Pip Gordon.
Chandler Macleod Group
Position: Company Director/Manager.
Position Senior Recruitment Consultant.
Tell us about your business: Along with my business partner Matt Donovan, we established our restaurant/café in November 2008 in the iconic Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club. We had a vision of what we could achieve there, and with the new renovations and extensions to the Club, we are quickly realising our dream. We have now expanded into wedding receptions, corporate functions and conferences in a big way! What makes your business stand out from your competitors? The amazing absolute ocean front views certainly help! Also having two owner/operators on site most of the time ensures the quality of our food and service always meets our very high standards. We guarantee our products and services, fixing any problems as they arise, to ensure complete customer satisfaction. We offer personal service and promote a happy and positive atmosphere for our staff, our customers and all the Surf Club crew. What are your achievements from the last 12 months? We opened the conference side of our business, in the amazing purpose built meeting room – the only one in Coffs Harbour with stunning ocean views. Business goals in next 12 months? We want to fill our conference room with as many bookings as we can Monday to Friday, so our café/restaurant is busy all the time!
Tell us about your business: CMG is an international Recruitment organisation with a core value to UNLEASH POTENTIAL. True to their values, they supported me when I relocated to Coffs. Initially I worked from home; now we have a fantastic office at the Professional Services Centre and a dynamic team, passionate about unleashing potential through employment, training and community connection.
56 coffs coast focus.
What makes your business stand out above your competitors? Strong national infrastructure with a suite of quality assessment tools to recruit the ‘best fit’ candidate. What achievements has your business accomplished in the last 12 months? We respond and develop local recruitment strategies to reflect our diverse community with rewarding outcomes. For example, we recently had a local temp workforce of over 110 people with a single employer group. This is a real support to our local economy. We listened when local women seeking employment expressed isolation, and we were part of creating W.O.W (Women Of the World) which had its first event in November and is ready for growth in 2012. What are your business goals for the next 12 months? Keep expanding our client base and explore opportunities that may present through the NBN rollout.
Nicola Taylor.
Girlfit
“If you want to get into shape, reduce stress, lose weight, increase energy levels, build confidence, make new friends, and improve your overall health, come along to Girlfit,” says Nicola Taylor, brainchild of the local women’s fitness craze. Girlfit is a fun, high intensity, one hour workout designed to challenge you physically and mentally. The physical benefits from Girlfit include increased fitness, reduction of body fat and an increase in muscle tone. You will have more energy, sleep better and have more confidence in everyday life. Outdoor boxing combined with plyometrics, hill runs, weights, skipping and circuit work makes up a Girlfit session and of course, the social aspects of Girlfit are also very inviting. Girlfit is for all ages, all co-ordination levels, all sizes, and Girlfit also runs different challenges throughout the year. Check out our website for the Summer Body Blitz, starting on 16 January. Girlfit runs rain, hail or shine. You can workout at any location, anytime. Location and session times listed below. For more information, log onto www.girlfit.com.au or contact Nicola 0417 045 825 or email nicola@girlfit.com.au
focusinterview. Rhoda Robertss Artistic Director. or. r
Saltwater Freshwater h t F Festival. ti l with Rhoda Roberts, Artistic Director. Come celebrate our National Day on Thursday, January 26 at Queen Elizabeth Park in Taree. The Saltwater Freshwater Festival promises a positive, inclusive family day, for all communities to enjoy.
W
hat is your position with the Saltwater Freshwater Festival – and what’s involved with this role?
I’m the Artistic Director. This is the best job in the world, working with the artistic community, local businesses and cultural custodians along with the Festival team, delivering a unique line up of talent and performers across the stages at the Festival site. I also determine the creative flow and themes for the Festival. Apart from booking artists and working with agents, developing schedules and securing projects, my role is to develop programming that encompasses all people from all walks of life to connect through participation − be it in a workshop, the Saltwater Freshwater Unearthed stage or through the Dancestry grounds and activities. It’s a family day with something for all ages.
Give us a bit of background on the festival. How long has it been around, and how was it established? The Saltwater Freshwater Festival is a nomadic cultural event that moves to a different location on the Mid North Coast of NSW each Australia Day. The Festival showcases the current work and projects of the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance, as well as a national focus on arts and cultural practices. It is the only Aboriginal cultural festival of its kind in New South Wales. The inaugural Festival was held in Coffs Harbour on 26 January 2010, where over 10,000 people attended, and the 2011 Festival was hosted in Port Macquarie, with over 7,000 people celebrating with us. The 2012 event is being staged in the NSW town of Taree, celebrating and sharing our Aboriginal living culture on the NSW Mid North Coast with the wider community and commemorating January 26 as a positive, inclusive, family day for all communities to enjoy. The Festival is organised by the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance, a peak body for Aboriginal arts and culture on the Mid North Coast of NSW. The Alliance is governed by ten
Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs) across seven LGAs from Karuah to Coffs Harbour. This includes Karuah, Forster, Purfleet Taree, Bunyah (Wauchope), Birpai (Port Macquarie), Kempsey, Thungutti (Bellbrook), Unkya (Macksville), Bowraville and Coffs Harbour. This covers the Worimi, Birpai, Dunghutti and the In addition to ic Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal us m le ib ed cr in nations. e up, the Festival
What are the aims of the festival?
lin two program includstes es, ag ce an perform ry nt ou C Welcome to mony re ce r he and ot rituals.
The Saltwater Freshwater Festival celebrates and shares our Aboriginal living culture on the Mid North Coast with the wider community and commemorates our National Day as a positive, inclusive, family day for everyone to enjoy. Some of the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance current projects include an Aboriginal Design Brokering service to link artists and design students with manufacturers across the world to create design products. Certificate IV in Aboriginal Design courses have been established through a partnership between Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance and North Coast Institute of TAFE. Only last year the Saltwater Freshwater Art Book was published to showcase contemporary Aboriginal Art from the Mid North Coast region; check it out – the works are amazing! We also aim to position Aboriginal Art and Culture as the foundation for the long-term social, economic and environmental development of the Mid North Coast Aboriginal communities. Our craft and cultural workshops are one way that we work with our communities to achieve this goal. With only 9% of Aboriginal people on the Mid North Coast aged over 55 and 52% under the age of 19, our programs recognise the importance of engaging Elders Groups in the region to pass on traditional cultural practices to our young people, to strengthen the contemporary identity of the region and create innovative cultural products.
When and where is the Saltwater
Freshwater Festival in Taree set to take place? Thursday, January 26, between 11am – 5pm. The venue is Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree. Entry
will be by gold coin donation.
Who are some of the headline acts we’ll be able to see at the festival in 2012? Our music line up begins with Microwave
been signed for the new International production The Flower Children (based on the story of the Mamas and Papas, with Casey featuring as Mama Cass). In addition to the incredible music line up, the Festival program includes two performance stages; Welcome to Country and other ceremony rituals; Dance: Dancestry; Visual Arts / Crafts, including exhibitions; acoustic music circle
Jenny. Part of Triple J Unplugged and based on
sessions; cultural exchange workshops; local
the central coast of NSW, Microwave Jenny’s is
emerging artists program; youth participation; the
a genre-defying style. Brendon Boney and Tessa
GenOne Yarn tent and forums and the Saltwater
Nukul combine heart-felt, Blues influenced guitar
Freshwater Unearthed program.
and vocals.
Who are the people/sponsors you’d like to thank for making the event possible?
Stiff Gins Nardi Simpson and Kaleena Briggs have travelled the world, received prestigious awards, and created a loyal fan base with their heart songs and emotive performances. Now, with their new album Wind & Water, they have perfected a sound that honours the raw power of their voices and their history, while leading them firmly into the future of Australian music. Returning to country, Black Turtles member Troy Russell is a Biripi man. The Black Turtles have had a luminous career spanning almost 15 years. They fuse an urban contemporary sound with a traditional Roots, Reggae and Rockabilly edge. Influences include John Fogerty, Ry Cooder and Warumpi Band. Closing a great day with her Big Beautiful & Sexy show, Casey Donovan, a Gumbaynggirr woman, joins the main stage. One of the country’s most amazing performers, Casey recently won
The Festival would not be possible without the support of sponsors and funding bodies. It is a free community event, so we rely on partnerships to provide the funds required to stage this important cultural event. We are thrilled that again this year GenerationOne have come on board as our Principal Sponsor, Essential Energy and Greater Taree City Council as our Key Partners and Indigenous Business Australia, National Australia Bank, North Coast TAFE and The University of Newcastle’s Wollotuka Institute form our Partners. Funding is also received from Federal and State Government bodies, as well as support from Arts NSW. So can I leave your readers all with one question … “What will you be doing this
a Best Supporting Actress Award at the Daegu
Australia Day?”
International Musical Festival for her work on the
Thanks Rhoda. Interview by Jo Atkins.
hit stage show The Sapphires. Casey has also just
coffs coast focus
57
focusinterview.
Sawtell First Avenue Cinema has a colourful history and still proudly displays some historic elements such as manual film projection. Cinema Manager, Col Brissett, shares with us the unique story of this quaint venue.
S AW T E L L
HISTORY OF THE CINEMA
e hear that you’re one of the only cinemas still using film reels … The Cinema has managed to survive the test of time and is one of the very few single-screen Cinemas still operating in Australia. A film projector is still being currently used, but technology is fast catching up, and a new state of the art digital projector will need to be purchased next year for the doors to remain open. The projector that is currently in use is a French Cinemeccanica and is powered by a 1000 Watt Xenon globe. A film, which is wound onto a large spool, is secured on to one side of a machine called a ‘Mutt’, and is then hand fed through the projector, passing the lens and the sound drum, and back onto an empty spool, which is attached to the opposite side of the ‘Mutt’. Through the years, most projectionists have been predominantly male – due to the fact that the spools of film are quite heavy and require a fair bit of strength to lift. A film arrives from the distributors by courier and takes approximately 1 - 1.5 hours to prepare for screening. Unfortunately, the industry is changing very rapidly due to the digital age. Despite 35 mm film projecting being very labour intensive, it will be a sad day when this format finally disappears and cinemas will have to rely on computer technology, not man-power. What’s the best thing about your job? The best part of working in this industry is seeing the smiles on our patrons’ faces when they come out of the cinema after seeing an enjoyable film. It also gives me great satisfaction knowing that I have booked in a film which they have enjoyed. Describe your typical day at the cinema. A lot of my working day is spent programming, searching the website, reading reviews and keeping a close eye on the box office figures, which give good indicators as to whether a film is performing or not. It’s funny that a lot of people come up to me and say I’ve got the best job in the world, sitting here all day watching movies – if only that was true! My brother John looks after the candy bar and projection room, which gives me time to do the research and paperwork. We also have several other casual staff members
who greatly assist in the running of the cinema. Tell us about the role played by ‘Friends of Sawtell Cinema’. While the cinema has struggled at different times, we have been very fortunate to have the ‘Friends of Sawtell Cinema’, a very dedicated group which originally started in 2009, to assist us get back on our feet after the devastating flood. We now have over 150 members, who for a small annual fee receive discounted movie tickets to every film and monthly ‘event’ nights, as well as receiving 1 free ticket yearly. Each film, selected monthly, includes pre-show drinks, nibbles and entertainment. Tell us about the film festivals and special events that you run at the cinema. We have always tried to diversify a little by screening foreign and art-house films, as well as supporting the Australian film industry as often as we can. An article in the Sun Herald recently explained that the Government needed to support smaller independent cinemas like ours, otherwise it will be fruitless funding Australian projects, as there will be no smaller independents left to screen our own product – due to the fact that a majority of the multiplexes prefer the main stream (American) films for their target audience. We have had great success this year by doing some live performances, i.e. Opera, Jazz (Swingphonia) choirs, guitarists, and we’ve even had a wedding ceremony. This leads to my theory that cinemas will become entertainment venues in the future, screening live sport, concerts, operas, etc. to enable them to combat the new technology being developed (3D TVs, home theatre systems, digital TV boxes etc). I’m not sure that 3D is going to be the future for film though ... but that’s just my opinion! For me, you’ve still got to have a good story! Do you have anything major planned for the cinema in 2012? Next year we have a live ‘Illusionist’ show planned for November/December, ‘Flickerfest’ short film festival in February, our own International Film Festivals in May/June and October/November and a premiere screening of the new Australian film Thirst, directed by our own locally talented Robert Carter and Mark and Megan George. Thanks Col. We look forward to seeing you at the movies!
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The cinema was purchased by my grandparents, Doris and Alan Brissett, in 1941. The cinema is currently owned by my parents, Barrie and Gretel, and has been managed by myself and my brother John for the past 10 years. My grandmother was born in Bonville and actually started up the very first shop in Sawtell, a general store, at the age of 15. Prior to Alan and Doris purchasing the old building, it was a Community Hall, staging dances, church, public meetings and the like. In 1941, they converted the building into a cinema and built a tiered wooden floor to enable patrons to have a much better view of the films. In 1955, disaster struck, and a mini-cyclone ripped through Sawtell – totally demolishing 58 coffs coast focus.
the cinema. Barrie, who was on leave from the Army, had to fly up from Sydney and assist in removing all of the debris, so that work could commence on re-building the complex. While re-building, ‘the show must go on’ became the catch-cry, and Sawtell had its very own open-air cinema for the next 12 months! The projector was powered by an old Ford pick-up truck battery, and patrons would bring their own cap-guns for the Westerns and umbrellas for those rainy nights. The cinema was rebuilt in triple brick and still stands today, despite disaster striking again in March 2009, when a metre of water flooded the town causing extensive damage and forcing the cinema to close for 6 weeks.
FOR MORE INFO visit www.firstavecinema.com.au
coffs coast focus
59
focustourism.
with Guy Saddleton, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.
Inspired? Do you have an idea for, or already operate, that the staff at Kerry Albert & Co. are available a small business? Looking for independence, to answer your questions, no matter how big or but also support? small. We can help you establish systems so that If you’re feeling inspired by an idea to start, or you can run your business independently, yet already operate, your own small business, Kerry we are available to support you if needed. Albert & Co. can assist you through all phases To this end, as a professional partner of MYOB, of your business start-up and ongoing we are participating in some exciting new operations. software developments, the first of Perhaps a hobby has become which is ‘MYOB LiveAccounts’. more than just a hobby, such ‘LiveAccounts’ is an affordable, t er lb A y Kerr st as a market stall or online si easy-to-use online accounting as n ca o. C & trading. And before you solution designed specifically you through all phases of your know it, you’ve become a for small businesses. It’s ideal business start- g small business operator! for businesses wanting a in up and ongo We understand that your simple solution for creating . ns io at oper focus is on the product or invoices, tracking expenses, and service which inspired you to managing their accounts online. start the business in the first place. In addition, we are very excited about However, the accounting, legal and tax the release next year of ‘MYOB Business obligations can be daunting. Cloud’, an online sale, expense and contact Many people don’t know who (or what questions) manager that synchronises in real-time with your to ask, or may feel that the business is too small to MYOB Desktop Accounting Software, for more warrant seeking professional advice or to require a established businesses which already use MYOB. computerised accounting system. Call us on 6652 1202 or visit our website If you’re one of these people, you can be assured www.kerryalbert.com.au to find out more.
60 coffs coast focus.
UPDATE Hello all. As we head into the Christmas/New Year holiday season, many of our members have indicated that their figures are once again down on previous years.
guysaddleton.
Please extend the courtesy and care that Coffs Coast locals are renowned for. 2011 has been a challenging but successful year for our association, with the merger of Bellingen and Coffs Harbour associations into a larger, more representative and more influential association, with membership s a destination, we are in an continuing to grow. The launch of the new increasingly competitive market, as Cofffs Coast Brand has been hugely successful, people choose whether to holiday in with presentations completed in Coffs Harbour, Australia or overseas. With cheaper Bellingen & Woolgoolga to unanimous airfares and a strong Australian Dollar, overseas endorsement and support in all cases. holidays are very attractive, and we need to Presentations will be completed in Dorrigo, work hard to illustrate the benefits of holidaying Sawtell & Urunga in the near future, and you on the Coffs Coast. can expect to see the new brand ‘in market’ in early 2012. One of the major drivers for holidaying in It is important that this new brand is embraced Australia is reduced risk, yet a driving holiday and used by all local tourism operators (and using the Pacific Highway can currently present remember, ‘tourism is everybody’s business’), a level of risk that many would prefer to avoid. as well as promoted by both local Councils, The RTA has a public commitment to provide with significant financial commitment a continuous dual carriageway from Sydney to to promote the brand. Our association Brisbane, and no doubt we all look forward to will continue to lobby for this financial this becoming a reality ... but when? commitment from Councils, as well as The recent accident that saw a Lindsays committing funds ourselves and ask that you Transport truck finish up in the river on the not only embrace the new brand, but northern approach to the Macksville write to your local Council and ask bridge clearly illustrates the that they make the financial fact that many sections of commitment necessary to or the Pacific Highway are One of the majing ensure the new brand is ay lid simply not up to the drivers for ho reduced is seen far and wide. To ia al tr in Aus standard required for , yet a driving fic sk this end, I am pleased ri ci safe movements of large, liday using therrPa ho to report that Coffs ently heavy vehicles, which Highway can cul of risk Harbour City Council have make up a significant part present a leve ld prefer appointed PEPR Publicity to ou w of our highway traffic. that many drive the new brand in the to avoid. A matter of major concern marketplace. to us is the possibility that the The Switched On Coffs Digital section of the highway that runs Strategy was launched by Senator through Coffs Harbour’s CBD technically Stephen Conroy at the stylish new Janison qualifies as dual carriageway and yet is clearly Development Centre on 9 December. Janison unsuitable for the levels and type of highway is a software company doing amazing things traffic that we experience, and the sooner nationally and globally, and this launch marks we see a bypass in place, the sooner we see the rollout of the NBN in Coffs Harbour. I increased safety for highway travellers and can’t stress enough the benefits this early NBN locals alike. Upgrading of the Pacific Highway rollout will bring for our region and encourage is a matter that our association will continue you all to embrace this grand opportunity to to lobby for at all levels of government, with be a leader in regional NSW. particular attention paid to the sections that fall Thank you to my fellow board members and within the Coffs Coast region. association members for your support and I’ll leave it there for the highway talk, with a hard work throughout the year, and let me reminder to please be exceptionally careful wish you all a sunny, safe and sustainable when driving during the holiday season and Christmas and New Year. remember ... we will have many road users Bring on 2012 …we’re ready for a great year! in town that are not familiar with our roads.
A
Occasional hourly care ... Pay only for the hours you use.
Enerlogic® Window Films.
School Holiday Vacancies. Caterpillar House has places available for
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short notice – one time care.
The service has ongoing vacancies throughout the year, so if you don’t need care now, keep us in mind next time you have appointments or a casual work call.
Occasional – hourly care – pay only for the hours you use. So come and play with us these holidays! Parents can ‘have a break’ or spend time with older children, secure in the knowledge their little ones are being well cared for. Our permanent staff are experienced – each having from 8 to 18 years with our service. As well as a teacher, 4 staff have recently upgraded their childcare qualifications. The centre is spacious and well equipped, with a large playground. Staff follow your home routines for under 2s, with a sleep room and linen and nappies
The service is Child Care Benefit Approved – this allows discounted care for those registered. Caterpillar House is a Community Based, not-for-profit service started by parents for parents and has been serving our community for 30 years. Many previous clients are now returning with their own children. Our centre is non-discriminatory and has inclusive programs that welcome and accommodate children of all abilities, cultures, languages and family structures.
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focuseditiorial.
TER A W T L A S ATER F R E SH W
T
he much anticipated Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2012 will be held in Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree this Australia Day from 11am – 5pm. With acts such as Microwave Jenny, The Yuin Ghudjargah Dancers, The Stiff Gins and Black Turtles rocking out the day is sure to be amazing. “This Festival is an awesome opportunity for emerging talent to share the stage with the greats. Who knows, we may discover the next Casey Donovan� says Festival Producer Sharna St Leon, who urges any local talent to contact the Festival for the chance to perform in on the Saltwater Freshwater Unearthed Stage on the day. For the first time in 2012 we are excited to introduce the Dancestry Grounds - a fusion of the old and new. The Dancestry grounds will provide a diverse selection of performance and workshops reflecting local and regional NSW chants and stomps. The ABC’s DreamBox will also feature at
the Festival, an interactive multimedia hub that captures hopes and dreams on film. GenerationOne returns as the Festival’s Principal Sponsor and will again host the GenerationOne Yarn Tent featuring lively forums focused on Aboriginal employment strategies for the Mid North Coast as well as a panel discussion themed “Can we change in one generationâ€?. Tim Gartrell, CEO of GenerationOne said “We see our relationship with Saltwater Freshwater as a great way to support the Mid North Coast communities and their artists who will be sharing their culture at the Festivalâ€?. “GenerationOne believes that Saltwater Freshwater is leading the way in bringing communities across the Mid North Coast of NSW to shift the dialogueâ€?. A highlight of the program will be the closing performance by Casey Donovan featuring her Big Beautiful & Sexy show. Casey is set to wow the audiences with her powerful voice performing hits from some of the music industry’s iconic Big Beautiful and Sexy women including Aretha Franklin, Mama Cass and more‌ There will be plenty of other entertainment throughout the day, with hands-on cultural experiences including weaving, dance, didgeridoo workshops and a youth and children’s precinct; storytelling; Come and learn simple Gathang words and phrases and discover the beautiful tongue of Biripi Country something for all the family! The Festival relies on volunteers to make it a success. Volunteers do everything that needs to be done to make the Festival happen, from
putting up posters, setting up marquees, checking-in performers, selling merchandise, patrolling car parks to cleaning up the site. “While we have had an excellent response to our call for volunteers we still need more people so come join in the fun, says volunteer coordinator Louise Diamond.� Come and spend Australia Day in Taree - need a lift? Buses will be running from Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie check the Festival website for details www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au The Festival is an alcohol, glass and pet free event. The financial backing for the Taree Festival from both the public and private sector has been excellent, and it is because of this support that the Festival is able to be a gold-coin entry event. Current sponsors include: Principal Sponsor - GenerationOne Key Partners - Essential Energy & Greater Taree City Council Partners – Indigenous Business Australia National Australia Bank North Coast TAFE University of Newcastle, The Wollotuka Institute Office of Aboriginal Affairs NSW Aboriginal Land Council Media Partners include: Southern Cross Austereo FOCUS Magazine The Manning River Times For more details visit www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au
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62 coffs coast focus.
focusbusiness. with the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce
Happy New Year to all our readers from the businesses and traders in Sawtell. We hope the festive season celebrates much joy and special times spent with family and friends and the New Year brings prosperity, good heath and peace to all. itting down to write an article like this is at this time of the year is a great way of checking in on what’s happened over the past twelve months in your own life and on a macro scale – and working out where we go next. I guess we celebrate all that was good in 2011, commiserate the terrible events and pray we are spared of similar in 2012. In Australia, the first few months of 2011 were tumultuous and unrelenting, as we experienced our own spate of natural disasters. As the year advanced, we witnessed and directly experienced the effects of global political unrest, economic uncertainty and international natural catastrophes. As a result, I believe the outlook for economic growth in the first few months of 2012 will be weak, as the economy struggles to recover from the impact of all things bad in 2011. Certainly
S
the Queensland floods will continue to and lifestyle outlets. Customer service, make an impact. pride in our community and knowledge The best thing we can do is have faith in and passion in what we do guarantee the strength of the Australian economy that shoppers and visitors will enjoy every and enjoy and partake in the moment spent in the village. riches that abound locally. Beautiful beaches and parks, It is also very important clubs and a pub, quality that we champion accommodation and all The business ll owners in Sawte our local economy services promise a visit ve sincerely belie wherever we can, by to Sawtell will deliver s focu that customernt to shopping at home the perfect package. is tantamou and ss ne si and supporting our There are many specials good bu all to the survival of own businesses and on offer in Sawtell in d business, now an services. January, and a visit to . beyond We are blessed to live in our village would not be one of the best places on complete without popping the planet, and we in Sawtell into Bella Cosa on First Avenue. remember proudly each day that we Bella Cosa is showcasing some unique are ‘Australia’s best kept secret’. Sawtell pieces of antique furniture this month offers the complete shopping experience – furniture will that define a room, not and boasts an eclectic mix of boutique just furnish it. Also, don’t miss the live shopping, cafés, restaurants and health Jazz on Thursday nights right through
clive greenway. January at Sarong Restaurant and Bar in First Avenue. One of our new businesses is now open: Wholly Cow, serving great tasty burgers using homemade recipes and local produce, with great Bello coffee roasted by Amelia Franklin. The business owners in Sawtell sincerely believe that customer focus is tantamount to good business and to the survival of all business, now and beyond. As a result, we are constantly re-inventing the way we conduct ourselves, to ensure that our goods and services are cutting edge and that all in Sawtell is as good or better than our colleagues in both regional and capital city areas. Accordingly, we are delighted and very proud of what we present and represent. It takes more than just a day to experience all the delights that Sawtell has on offer, so take a little time to visit our village soon ... it will delight you!
coffs coast focus 63
For all your flooring needs.
Over 14 years’ assistance.
Youth Directions.
Coffs Harbour Hardwoods. Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is a Coffs Harbour based family owned and operated company and has been supplying timber products around Australia and overseas since it was established by Timber Merchant and world champion axeman, Ray McCarthy, in 1961. Timber has been chosen for centuries as a flooring product. Its natural warm beauty and low anti static dust properties make it even more highly desirable today. Timber flooring is available in many colours of single or mixed species, and the floor that you are installing will be unique in character and appearance, because there are no two trees the same. For this reason, timber floors are so valued and the feature of many homes. Another charm of timber floors is that they are totally natural, and with this comes variability. Due to this, there are some things you, as the owner, need to consider about the laying, sanding and finishing of your timber flooring and decking. For further information or sales enquiries, contact us on 6649 2006 or visit www.coffshardwoods.com.au
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Youth Directions is a locally grown, not-for-profit organisation committed to assisting young people in the Coffs Harbour, Clarence, Bellingen and Nambucca areas to: • Engage with education and training • Attain accredited qualifications • Develop career aspirations • Navigate pathways to successful futures • Undertake School-based Traineeships and Apprenticeships The importance of a collective community responsibility for the learning and development of young people underpins Youth Directions’ programs and activities. For over fourteen years, Youth Directions has co-ordinated the Higher School Certificate Work Placement program to provide students with opportunities to develop employability skills in a workplace setting. Through the School Business Community Partnership Broker program, Youth Directions fosters a whole of community approach that supports young people to remain engaged or re-engage with education or training and realise their full social and economic potential. The Youth Connections program delivered by Youth Directions provides holistic and personalised assistance for young people who have disengaged from education. Youth Directions recently established Directions Group Training to promote and increase opportunities for School based Traineeships and Apprenticeships (SbATs). The SbAT program provides a head start on a career pathway for students in Years 11 and 12. For information on Youth Directions programs, phone 6653 2900.
Community College. It’s time to think about that New Year’s Resolution, so why not do something positive and rewarding for yourself – enrol in a course at Coffs Coast Community College. The College has over 80 courses to improve your skills or spark a new passion. The courses include computer basics, MYOB, languages, creative arts, cooking and much, much more. In 2012, the College will offer a range of accredited courses, including Children’s Services, Aged Care, RSA, RCG, Safe Food Handling and First Aid. Meeting new people, learning in a small class environment and gaining a nationally recognised qualification locally are some of the key reasons students give for studying at the Coffs Coast Community College. “We are all about creating opportunities to expand students’ potential, and it is very rewarding to watch our students’ progress. Sometimes just a simple short course has inspired enough confidence and sparked the passion to move on to higher learning, gain new employability skills, publish books, start their own business, or travel overseas with new language skills. The possibilities are endless when you try something new.” Term 1 starts on 30th January 2012, so visit the website at www.coffscollege.nsw.edu.au for course information, or pick up a program from the College in City Centre Square.
focusinterview.
Business
Brian
‘When the going gets tough, get creative’. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
ne of the more memorable characters in Les Miserables would have to be Monsieur Thenardier, otherwise known as ‘Master of the house’. Part comforter, part philosopher but above all, a wily tavern keeper with an easy grin, firm handshake yet quick to seize an opportunity for an extra sous (or two). Who can forget that line:“Charge them for the lice, extra for the mice and three percent for looking in the mirror twice, here a little snip, there a little cut, two percent for sleeping with the windows shut?” Humble in its description, I can’t help but aspire to being a ‘Master of the House’, as it indicates a modicum of authority. Now, don’t be fooled thinking this will ever happen at home – but there is an outside chance at work. You see, many of us managerial types like to think of ourselves as Masters and Commanders – and in a sense we are. Having a few years under our expanding waistlines, we glean confidence knowing we’ve arrived at our positions with hard work, cleverness and acumen. Rightly, we are in control of most events that happen at work between eight to six – that is, with the exception of anything to do with marketing. So, if the corporates understand that to survive they need an edge that will help differentiate their brand from the rest, why don’t Coffs Coast business owners? Why is marketing so scary to local business folks? Maybe it’s that many retailers have bought
themselves jobs and have never had to embrace marketing in their former pen pushing careers. Another plausible reason is that many larger businesses today started as tiny concerns 30 years ago have simply grown with the town, never experiencing real competition ... never knowing the anxiety that the competition may close you down. Advertising sales reps have a lot to answer for too, when they knowingly persuade an advertising novice to go the plunge, when their real interest lies in securing their month’s budget. Give me a dollar for every time I’ve heard that story, and I’ll retire. Whatever the reason, I estimate 80% of business owners are marketing sceptics and delegate (or is that relegate) the most vital of all functions to about 3 minutes’ attention a week. But within this scenario there is good news, because those with foresight and energy who treat marketing as a central activity reap untold rewards. This month’s profile is one such story. Everyone has heard of Tabatinga, but have you heard the story of Brian and Cathy Parker? Maybe you have, but I hope to give you a warts and all perspective that might assist you to reflect on your situation and inspire you to greater things. I stopped by one morning to see Brian, but sadly Cathy was out of town for the day. Brian starts the story of their careers in a Rockhampton water park, that opened a mini golf attraction and their eyes to the potential of family entertainment venues. A few trips to the
states provided Brian and Cathy with a good idea of the latest developments, and soon after it was time to open their own mini golf complex – this time in the gold town of Ballarat. They say that life is a series of lessons, the one here being that any reasonable attraction will do well in school holidays, but it needs to generate an income for the other 40 weeks a year too! Then the concept of an indoor soft ball attraction took hold, after visiting one of the original Balladiums – again in the USA. I asked Brian if he’s seen any business statistics that helped him develop the indoor attraction concept. “Not really; it was just gut feel. We have lots of rainy days here and not too many indoor attractions, so the concept seemed to have a good fit – but we needed a point of difference”. Brian and Cathy knew the activities would have appeal, but without a theme all they’d have is a converted restaurant. Enter the rainforest concept. Endorsed by parents, idolised by younger children, the jungle theme is a timeless classic that can speak to all ages – and with no other competitor occupying this space, it was a clever brand strategy. When searching for a location, a former Chinese restaurant next to the cinemas seemed ideal and with finance secured just before the financial crisis, Tabatinga opened in November 2008 to a receptive and eager community. Twelve months later though, the smiles were quickly receding, as the sales figures started to level off. “We started to flat line far earlier than expected and soon after realised that Cathy and I were so busy, we had overlooked the importance of marketing – in the sense that thousands of families had visited, but we had not established a relationship with them.” Brian admits that this was a pivotal moment, and shortly after some new thinking began to take shape during a seminar with master marketer, Mal Emery. On reflection, the rainforest theme was designed to be the point of difference, but was it really? Was it the ultimate differentiator that would underpin sustainable growth? The conclusion in the end was a resounding, “No”. Ultimately, the activities and the theme can be copied, but what can never be copied is that desire that families could have where they simply want to come back to Tabatinga again and again. That’s
the place Marketers call brand loyalty, and even our friends the accountants have given it a name even – if it is a bit drab. They call it goodwill. At that moment, Brian and Cathy realised that to protect and build their dream, they needed thousands of regular customers – and the only road that would take them there was marketing. But let’s drill down a little to unpack their approach, which can be summarised as follows: build a customer base, build loyalty among those customers and encourage referrals, or in Brian’s words, “Repeat business is sweet, but we had to find ways to develop referrals and of course, there is still the opportunity of new customers”. Soon after, customers were greeted at the front door by a large and cute soft toy that could be won by completing an entry form, and in no time Tabatinga had a database comprising thousands of families who were simply waiting for an invitation to return. And return they did, after receiving a birthday party invitation or a newsletter or a VIP invitation to a special event. Now this is clever yet cost effective marketing at its best, but there was still more to do, because Brian and Cathy identified other customer segments yet to be targeted. With all this going on, marketing has become an all embracing function. “It has to be this way, because if we become a me-too business, we’ll be forced to compete on price – and that’s the last thing we want,” reflects Brian. Wise words, but is it working? According to the Chamber of Commerce, it is. You see, Tabatinga won the 2011 Sunny’s Marketing award, for the second time. At 10am on a Wednesday morning, I expected it to be quiet at Tabatinga – but mistaken I was, thanks to at least a dozen mums accompanied by their toddlers competing to see who was having the best time. It’s no secret that the Parkers think that they are onto something with the idea, which is transportable all around Australia through franchising. There is no doubt the model is a winner thanks to some brilliant creativity, superb branding but also the flexibility to recognise that when business starts to level off, it’s time to try new strategies. Thanks Brian ... you are truly Master of the House. Drop a line to paul@adamsmktg.com.au coffs coast focus 65
COFFS COAST
prrop ope erty rty guid guide.
Adenbrook Homes. 66 coffs coast focus.
focusabode.
Adenbrook Homes. ow long has Adenbrook been in Coffs Harbour? Give us a brief background on the company ... Adenbrook Homes has been in the Mid North Coast region for over 2 years, with an award winning display home in Port Macquarie. We’ve been building homes in the Coffs Harbour area now for over a year. Adenbrook Homes is one of Australia’s fastest growing building companies, with a focus on local builders who know and understand the region. Our designs and display homes have won a number of awards, including six awards for our display home in Port Macquarie.
Adenbrook Homes – one of Australia’s most professional home builders. We chat with Director Matthew Morris about what sets Adenbrook apart when building on the coast.
Introduce us to your team. construction phase runs smoothly. At Adenbrook, we are very Angie is our Administration and much a family business. Customer Service Officer and looks Adenbrook Luke and I have lived in the after all the clients who are building Homes is one oft Mid North Coast region with us, while Karen will start Australia’s fastesg most of our lives, as have with us as our Coffs Harbour Sales growing buildin . es most of our team. So, Consultant in January, when our compani we’re very familiar with the brand new display opens. We have neighbourhood and the locals. an in house drafts person and a custom I look after the business designer to assist with clients’ individual side of things and ensure there’s ideas and designs too. structure, process and planning. My son Luke We have a dedicated and trusted group of is the Construction Manager and point of trades and sub contractors who are part of our contact during the construction stages. Along Adenbrook family. We trust their consistent high with our Building Supervisor Brett, they have quality workmanship and attention to detail. great attention to detail and ensure that the continued over
Matt & Luke Morris
in Mid North Coast
Display Home Opening - LATE JANUARY 30 Stunning
Home Designs - ONLINE NOW -
Home & Land
FROM $343,400 Matto Luke Corp Pty Ltd ABN: 49 203 256 897 Lic No215259C
MID NORTH COAST REGIONAL OFFICE 1/22 Central Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Ph: (02) 6581 4588
Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat to Sun By Appointment
coffs coast focus 67
focusabode.
ADENBROOK HOMES
continued from over
What is your specialty, and what sets you apart from the competition? Building is our passion, and we never divert from that. There are over 35 home designs in the Adenbrook portfolio and with a number of options and facades available, there’s a home suitable for everyone. Our difference is that we have the backing of a national, award winning building company, with the local knowledge of a local builder. The combination of this means our administration and building processes are streamlined, and you have a builder who understands the local area. We have designs to suit all types of land, from narrow lots to sloping lots, acreage to
68 coffs coast focus.
All of our homes ed have been designn lia ra st Au for the en lifestyle, with op s. ea ar g in plan liv
the traditional blocks, so our consultants specialise in customising the home to suit you and your block of land. Once this is finalised and we start building, our guaranteed build time ensures that your home is built on time and on budget. The whole process from start to finish is seamless. Tell us about some of the projects you’ve worked on in the last 12 months. Our brand new display is in the final stages of construction and due to open in the New Year at North Sapphire Beach Estate. The ‘Penn’ is one of our single storey designs, with four bedrooms, child’s retreat, media room and generous wrap around alfresco – the perfect
design for the relaxed Australian lifestyle. In the past 12 months around the Coffs Harbour area, we have built many new homes, and it’s always fantastic to drive around and see our clients enjoying their new family home. What are the most popular home designs that you build in the area? All of our homes have been designed for the Australian lifestyle, with open plan living areas, generous alfrescos and the options for mulitiple living zones. The Layton, though, is one of our most popular designs. The large open plan living space integrates with the alfresco, as well as a separate lounge
that can be used as a rumpus, formal lounge or media room. The bedroom wing is separate for privacy and has a child’s retreat. The flexible layout suits many families, and we’ve built a number of them over the years. Our other popular designs are the Heydon, the Cebel and the Kirra; although, with over 35 designs in our portfolio, there’s a suitable home for everyone. What part of building do clients say they enjoy the most? Every client who builds a new home with us has a complimentary colour consultation session with a qualified interior designer from our design partners, Windemere Interiors. In this session, the new home owners can
focusabode.
Adenbrook Homes.
choose all their fixtures fixtures, tiles tiles, paint colours, laminate colours and floor coverings. We only use brand names, quality products such as Caroma, Corinthian and Dulux, with thousands of samples in our Colour Selections Show Room to choose from. This means our clients can personalise the interior and exterior of their home in one session, with the guidance of an interior designer, without having to go all over to town to different suppliers. This is one of the special extras that our clients say make the building experience more enjoyable. Have you been involved in any community projects? We have been a strong supporter of one of the local high schools in the Port Macquarie region. We supply the sports shirts worn to represent the school at sporting events. It’s great to give back to the local community and
also a thrill for us to see the yellow yellow, blue and black shirts around the neighbourhood. We’re also a gold sponsor of the local nippers Surf Life Saving Club. The local surf club is a major part of the community, and we’re proud to support it. What are some of the challenges you face in your industry, and how do you work to overcome them? As with everywhere in the industry, value for money is an important aspect to anyone building a new home. You don’t want to compromise on quality, but you also need to be mindful of the cost. We’ve recognised this and introduced our ‘Lite Pricing’ structure, which delivers Adenbrook’s well known quality, but the ability to tailor the home to suit the individual budget.
here As with everywlue va , ry st du in e th in for money is an to important aspect a new anyone building home.
continued over
coffs coast focus 69
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ADENBROOK HOMES
continued from over
Tell us about some of the awards you’ve won over the years? Our display home, the ‘Heydon’ at Port Macquarie, has won six awards over the years. At the regional HIA Northern NSW Housing Awards 2010, the Heydon was awarded Display Home under $350,000, Outdoor Project of the Year, and the coveted Northern NSW Display Home of the Year. At the 2010 Regional Master Builders Awards, the Heydon won $250K - $400K Display Home and Swimming Pool of the Year. At the HIA CSR NSW Housing Awards, the home was awarded Outdoor Project of the Year. What are your plans for 2012? We’re looking forward to growing the Adenbrook name in the Coffs Harbour area in 2012. We believe Coffs Harbour is a huge area of growth, and our designs suit the relaxed, family lifestyle of the area.
70 coffs coast focus.
Adenbrook Homes. We’ve already begun planning the opening of the new display at North Sapphire in the display village in Stage 4 of the North Sapphire Beach Estate, and we look forward to showcasing our design, quality and interior design to Coffs Harbour. Where can people view your work? Our brand new display is due to open in late January 2012. In the meantime, photos, floorplans and facade options of all our designs and display homes are available online. Thanks Matthew.
more info. Visit www.adenbrookhomes.com.au or phone the Regional Mid North Coast Office on (02) 6581 4588 or the Coffs Harbour Sales Team on 0412 797 925.
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focusrealestate.
with Chris Hines from Unrealestate
Locally owned and operated.
Local Manufacturers.
real
Coffs Harbour Blinds & Awnings prides
are simply a phone call away.
itself on being locally owned and
We also make it a priority to know all requirements of our industry – one example of note recently is the changes in the child safety laws. We make sure we are on the ball, and all our products comply 100% with these new regulations, so you need not worry. You can just rest assured when you buy product from us; you know it will comply, so there is no worry involved.
operated for over 45 years. The business was established in 1964 by Bill and Joyce Jeff, with a staff of 3, supplying Venetian blinds, awnings and window screens. We now have in excess of 30 staff and supply all types of window furnishings all over NSW (as well as to various places in Qld, Vic and NT). Our aim in developing a relationship with our customers will be to help them in every way we can. We have extensive knowledge and experience in the blinds and awnings industry, and this knowledge and experience will be at your disposal. We like to have an ongoing relationship with our customers; we don’t believe in simply manufacturing product and shipping it out. We have an extensive collection of brochures, features and benefits sheets, installation and care guides, and if you have any questions or need some help, we
As a Luxaflex dealer, we primarily sell Luxaflex branded window furnishings. Luxaflex is a well known and well respected brand in Australia, and has been now for over 50 years. We align ourselves with Luxaflex because of the quality of the brand, the service from the company and the knowledge that when we install Luxaflex branded products, they come with a 5 year warranty for piece of mind for our customers.
Welcome to the start of a new year.
chris hines.
t’s always a great time to reflect what happens. If they’ve been looking on what we have achieved in the around long enough to be ready to commit last twelve months, what we did themselves, they’ve also made themselves well, what we could have done very familiar with what they can get for their better and what we hope to do for the next money. 12 months. It has been a challenging year It is common for inexperienced vendors for many, with the ‘Global Financial Crisis’ to overprice their properties in the belief affecting many industries – in particular the that the ‘right’ buyer will eventually come retail sector and the building industry. along – someone who will fall in love with The real estate industry also had its their property and pay the earth for it. But challenges – not so much because of people buy with their pockets, as well as problems with the market itself or values, their hearts. No one goes into a real estate but the fact that many people decided that it purchase without making comparisons and was time to save and not to spend. As such, weighing up all the factors. less buyers in a market create a Many inexperienced vendors buyers market. make the mistake of thinking All in all, the market in that no matter what price Coffs Harbour hasn’t a property is advertised ink any people that M n io suffered as heavily as at, purchasers will rrel that there is a co a high g in tt many other areas. always make offers. pu n ee tw be ice on Properties are still Put yourself in the initial asking pr operty an advertised pr selling, but the purchaser’s shoes ... gh hi and achievinge.aThere’s market is PRICE buying a house is really ic final selling pr k, but it lin a y SENSITIVE. What stressful. Most people nl ai cert e way doesn’t work th this means is simple: won’t let themselves get ink. many people th buyers are more emotionally committed educated than ever. The to something they feel is internet has brought with it never going to come down many tools that enable buyers to a realistic level. It’s easier to weigh up properties against each psychologically to move on and make an other and unless the prospective purchaser offer on something that is more realistically has a strong emotional attachment, they will priced. take the value option. It is wise to leave a negotiating factor This leads to two more major considerations when setting your asking price, but for a prospective seller: correct pricing and price your property to create a sense of appointing an agent who can market and competition, so that purchasers will want negotiate. to snap it up before someone else does. I have written about both subjects before; Contrary to what many potential sellers however, with the current market conditions, think, the best price is nearly always I would like to revisit the pricing issue – in achieved in the early stages of the marketing particular, overpricing. campaign ... why? Because astute buyers Many people think that there is a correlation who are in a position to buy see the real between putting a high initial asking price value and will be prepared to commit, as on an advertised property and achieving opposed to looking at lots of overpriced a high final selling price. There’s certainly listings. a link, but it doesn’t work the way many That brings us to the end of another year. people think. In fact, the opposite is May I wish everyone a happy and above all often the case. If a property is overpriced, safe New Year on behalf of myself, my family purchasers just sit back and wait to see and my team at Unrealestate Coffs Coast.
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72 coffs coast focus.
Covering Sawtell to Nambucc a to Crossmaglen to Dorrigo
www.guysaddleton.com.au 9 Church Street · Bellingen · NSW · 2454
We SELL properties
6655 2458
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This Property: 67 Acres, 4 bed, 2 bath · ‘‘Space, Space Glorious Space...” · 310 Northbank Road, Bellingen · $1,400,000
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Bringing Industrial Design to regional areas is a dream come true for talented local designer, Adam Doyle.
BIOGRAPHY
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I’m 32, married with 2 young children and when I’m not busy with family life or work, enjoy mountain biking and surfing. I grew up in Coffs and since leaving to study Industrial Design at Newcastle University, I have lived and worked in Sydney and Brisbane. While I enjoyed the city life and gained a great deal of experience, we now have a family of our own and want our children to experience the upbringing my wife and I enjoyed in Coffs Harbour. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Y
ou work in Industrial Design. What exactly is that? Industrial Design is the professional service of creating and developing concepts that optimise the usability, function, value and appearance of products and systems for the mutual benefit of both user and manufacturer. We all encounter Industrial Design on a daily basis. It’s likely your coffee machine, toaster, toothbrush, mobile phone, car, office chair, printer and stationary have all been influenced by Industrial Design. It may not be a widely known profession, but it has an enormous impact on our daily lives, business and the environment. It’s an interesting career, and I thoroughly enjoy the constant challenges that come with it. How did you become involved in the industry? Where/how did your interest for Industrial Design develop? I have always been interested in how things work, how they are manufactured and how to make them better. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the shed, pulling things apart and building contraptions. I remember one morning before school I converted my mum’s bicycle to be driven by an electric motor and demonstrated it to her by doing laps of the clothes line, as she
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hung out the washing. I had inspirational high school teachers in the subjects of wood work, design + technology, and engineering science. I have no doubt that without their influence, I would not have connected my natural intrigue with Industrial Design as a career option. After completing my degree, I first worked for Freedom Furniture designing sofas in their Sydney factory. The connection between design and production was immediate, and it was a great learning experience. Seeing my work being mass produced, on the retail shop floor and eventually in people’s homes, confirmed I wanted a career in Industrial Design. Tell us about your design consultancy business, Bruxner Product Development. Bruxner Product Development works with businesses small and large to design innovative products for market. Typical project outcomes include: • turning new technology into complete products • replacing off-the-shelf products with costeffective customised solutions • transitioning from low to high volume production • resolving existing design problems • sourcing production
This is achieved via a design process which is Future’ programme. Another project developed proven, down to earth, hands-on and focused on a plastic reinforcing mesh system that eliminates maximising your company’s return on investment, concrete cancer, which has enormous potential. reducing time to market and managing risk. This A more recent project has been an electronic formal process also enables your business to lock system for Australia Post’s PO boxes and take full advantage of the Government’s R&D tax parcel lockers. These are currently being trialled credits and grants. in Melbourne as part of the ‘Post Office of the I enjoy working one-on-one with my Future’ programme. The electronic locks offer a customers, to ensure communication is direct and level of security far beyond that of a traditional projects run efficiently. key systems. You’ve said before that Industrial What is the key to good design? Design has historically been Focus on the user. Understand limited to capital cities, but them and what it will take for I have always opportunities are now them to love your product and in been interested k, opening up for regional keep loving your product. This how things wor are businesses. Tell us about connection generates brand how they are d d manufacture than that … loyalty and avoids competing on em e ak how to m Industrial Designers price and features alone. better. outside capital cities are What are your goals for 2012, few and far between so there and what do you have in the is not a wide spread history of pipeline? regional businesses working with All of my current projects are capital city Industrial Designers. As this relationship develops, based, which is all well and good for business, businesses have access to skills which, when but I’m excited about building local connections combined with their expertise and experience, and creating local success stories. may open up new markets, new business models A few projects in the pipeline which and new opportunities. Globalisation represents are due for release in 2012 include an both threats and opportunities. Competing electronic child safety device, ergonomic on price alone is unsustainable; it is critical to nursery furniture, electronic mining hardware produce an offering which competes on another and a rock climbing training system. level. An ongoing dedication to design and Thanks Adam. innovation will enable regional businesses to compete on a national and international level. more info What are some of the major projects that visit my website: you have worked on? www.bruxner.com.au Prior to starting Bruxner Product Development, or call 1300 880 141 I worked a project for Rio Tinto’s ‘Mines of the
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