Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i216

Harry Stephens

Wherever you’re going in life, the luxurious all new GLC is ready to elevate every journey with comfort, connection and elegant sportiness. Move forward in style with the all new GLC.

Experience the all new GLC today at Andrew Miedecke Motors.

ALL FIRED UP: A MIXED TAPE MUSICAL

Saturday 13 April, 7.30pm

THE FLYING FRUIT FLY CIRCUS: TEMPO

Wednesday 24, 6.30pm & Friday 26 April, 10.30am

Glasshouse SELECT Theatre Program

THE WHARF REVUE

Tuesday 16 & Wednesday 17 April, 8pm

Wednesday 8 May & Thursday 9 May, 10am & 12.30pm

UPROARIOUS LAUGHTER, POLITICAL SATIRE AND CHEEKY HILARITY

ALPHABET ADVENTURE WITH EXPLOSIVE SCIENTIFIC SURPRISES FOR AGES 6+

CELEBRATING MUSICAL THEATRE ONE 80S SONG AT A TIME

A CIRCUS SYMPHONY - SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN FOR AGES 6+

Saturday

Thursday

Sunday 21 April, 2pm

Welcome to the APRIL 2024 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

This month we welcome back Sarah Baker. Sarah has been on maternity leave for the past 10 months and we are excited to have her back. Sarah is resuming her position in sales and I’m sure will pick up right where she left off. Sarah will also be doing some of our stories and editorial so if you have a story idea please email us at info@ focusmag.com.au and Sarah will be in touch.

ON the COVER; How bloody awesome is this month’s front cover!!!! A huge thank you to Harry’s Mum Meegan for allowing us to include her amamzing son in this month’s edition. With Ride the Wave happening the first weekend in April and Harry Stephens being currently ranked 5th in Australia and 1st in NSW for his division, it was only fitting

that Harry be this month’s cover star. It is so amazing seeing the talent not only in surfing but across all forms of sport in our region. Congratulations Harry we look forward to seeing where your talent takes you.

In this edition;

Last month in our Women IN Business edition we featured the beautiful Carly Munday from Only Lovers Left. This is actually a business she runs with her husband so we thought we would get to know Brendan also and they have produced a fantastic article for you all to read and get to know this amazing husband and wife team.

The Big Dig is on again this May. We love supporting local events like this one and encourage all our readers to do the same.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie

POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie

PHONE 0447 157 340 WEB www.focusmag.com.au

IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITION COORDINATOR

& SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

We also had the pleasure of interviewing Warren Frumar. Warren has always been a keen swimmer and has been a member of the Port Macquarie Hastings Masters Swimming Club since he moved here in 1999. Check out his interiew on page 62.

We have also introduced a brand new feature, Ask the Experts, and have a very impressive line up of local businesses who are the ones to go to in their industry. Check them out starting on page 65.

School holidays are also on the menu for April and as always our cafes, clubs and entertainment venues are ready to welcome you and your family. Enjoy the month, and enjoy another wonderful edition of FOCUS. Until next month. xx

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Saturday

The creative minds behind Only Lovers Left, the local apparel label bringing tie dye back with a bang! Discover the roots of their brand, and their commitment to sustainable fashion.

The

of Hastings Fly Fishers Club; an inclusive group of people who share a passion for fly fishing.

and

WAUCHOPE SHOW

5 APRIL 2024

When Friday 5th and Saturday 6th April.

Gates Open 8am

Tickets wauchopeshowsociety.com.au

Adults $15, Aged pensioner $10 Children 5-16 yrs $5 Under 5yrs free.

7

PAWS AND PLAY; GOLDEN & LAB MEET UP

Introducing our Paws and Play: Golden & Lab Meet Up at #TheTerracePMQ (The Bowl PMQ). Come and enjoy the morning with your Golden Retrievers and Labradors and meet some new friends! Coffee and Cake Special. Pupcups for all pooches. Sorry no retractable leads

When Sunday, April 7th - 9am11am

YOUTH HOMELESSNESS MATTERS DAY

17 24

Come and raise awareness about youth homelessness. featuring guest speakers with lived experience. Get what you need at the services market and enjoy the free sausage sizzle, popcorn, fairy floss and coffee. Where Town Beach Amphitheatre Tickets events.humanitix.com/youthhomelessness-matters-day-2024

COLOUR FRENZY FUN WALK OR RUN

21

An exciting and colourful day for everyone! 1km, 2km, or 5km. Fun run starts at 9:30am We have a fun Colour, Obstacles and Foam walk or run at Stuart Sport Grounds. Entertainment with giveaways, music, small select marketplace, food & drinks available, Dogs allowed When Sunday 21st of April Tickets from colourfrenzy.com.au

POPPY PAINTING WITH PALETTE KNIVES

Come along to our commemorative workshop at The Seed! In this class we learn how to paint with acrylics. Canvas, brushes, easel, and an apron are waiting for you. Painting begins at 6.30pm and we’ll walk you through stepby-step, so no experience is required. Poppy artwork to commemorate ANZAC Day. Where The Seed Art School - 3/1a Blackbutt Road, Port Macquarie

When Wednesday 24th April, 6.30-8.30pm

REPTILE EXPO

Where Port Macquarie Panthers Auditorium (Port Macquarie Panthers dress code applies to all patrons). Persons over the age of 18 years of age must sign in to the venue prior to entering the Expo. Tickets ticketebo. com.au/nchgreptileexpo2024

Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferred to other people.

When April 27, 2024, 10 AM - 3 PM

Harry Stephens is an 11 year old local surfer who finished last year’s season 1st in NSW and 5th in Australia for his age group! Harry will be surfing at Ride e Wave Festival here in Port so head down and cheer him on in his hometown!

STEPHENS

Hi Harry. Can you tell us about your start in surfing and what the early days of learning to surf were like for you?

Hi. I started very early at 4 but I didn’t start properly surfing till I was about 7. My best mate Boaz moved from Sydney when we were in year 2 and he loved surfing as much as me so we both started surfing more together. We still surf all the time together. During all of the COVID lockdowns I started going every single day to Lighthouse and I got good enough to go from a foamie to a fibreglass board and it went from there.

I had lots of support from my family and friends and also Soul Surfing, they were so encouraging, and I just got the froth.

What do you love most about surfing?

Going as fast as possible across the face of the wave. The more speed the better, and getting barrelled. I got some sick barrel sessions over summer at Lighthouse and it’s the best feeling being inside and looking out.

I love being in the ocean every day and spending all that time with my mates, it’s such a good feeling to share the froth with my

mates. I’m lucky that I live on the coast so I can share it all with my family and friends.

You’ve had some pretty impressive results from recent comps, can you tell us a bit about some of the comps you’ve been involved in lately and how you went?

I love being in the ocean every day and spending all that time with my mates, it’s such a good feeling to share the froth with my mates.

Yeah I had a good year last year in U12’s. Two biggest highlights were when I got 2nd at Ozgrom and 2nd At Newcastle GromSearch.

I made the National Final in Melbourne

Urbansurf which was an awesome experience and I finished 6th. I had never surfed a wave pool before, so it was fun to go down and check it out and just get the same wave after wave. That was a great week.

I got consistent results last year in all comps which led me to finish the season 1st in the state and 5th nationally which was cool.

Continued over...

I'm lucky here in Port to have some great older mentors to look up to and I learn a lot from the bigger boys, they always push me and call me into bigger sets and teach me some tricks.

You’re 11 years old but we hear you’re now surfing up into older groups, how has that been for you?

Because of when my birthday is at the end of the year I have had to jump up this year into 14’s. It will be a tough year for me competitively but I’m really looking forward to the challenge against the older boys and just frothing with them all.

I’m lucky here in Port to have some great older mentors to look up to and I learn a lot from the bigger boys, they always push me and call me into bigger sets and teach me some tricks. I think it will be an awesome opportunity for me to go as big as I can in comps and see how I go. Hopefully I can land some airs and get some good scores.

Is it all about surfing for you or do you play other sports as well?

It’s all about surfing really. I don’t do any other weekend sport anymore because I like to be free to chase waves. I do love all sports and I play heaps of sport in school like AFL, cricket, soccer. I love long-distance running – I do pretty well in cross country and 800m and 1500m at school. This helps me train for surfing too so I like to run and swim to keep fit, but mostly I just surf before or after school. You’re going to be surfing at Ride The Wave Festival here in Port, what are you looking forward to most about this event?

Being able to travel to surf for a living would be so fun. I like the idea of having my mates to explore the best waves in Oz and the world together.

everyone is shredding at the moment so the competition is so tight! That will definitely be the most challenging thing – the level of U14’s surfing is so good! Also sometimes the breakwall can be tricky if the conditions aren’t great. I really hope Townies turns it on and the waves are fun, because when it’s good it’s all time.

What would be your dream event to be part of if you could participate in any event in the world?

I am most looking forward to having mates from all over the state come to my hometown! I’ve met and made friends with so many cool people through surfing and travelling up and down the coast camping together while at comps. Heaps of them will be coming to Port for the comp so I’m looking forward to surfing my local breaks with them all and just getting to hang out with them and surf and skate all weekend will be fun.

What do you think will be most challenging about this event? It’s going to be a hard comp because

What is it like for you being able to be part of this festival at home in Port?

It will be so nice to sleep at home in my bed during an event. Usually, we are camping which is heaps of fun but it will be nice to be able to go home between heats and not have to travel to the event, and it is good to have some local knowledge of the banks and the rocks at Townies.

We also have tickets to see the Music Festival which will be a great day and night in town with everyone. I’m just looking forward to the whole weekend of froth.

The Billabong Pipe Pro and Bells Beach on the Championship Tour. I can’t wait to get to explore Hawaii and surf those big barrel waves when I am a bit older. Hopefully a lot sooner I’ll get a chance to surf down at Bells in Victoria. I love watching this event over Easter and hopefully one day I’ll get to surf in it. Being able to travel to surf for a living would be so fun. I like the idea of having my mates to explore the best waves in Oz and the world together.

What are some of your goals or aspirations for the future?

My biggest dream is to qualify for the Championship Tour or maybe the 2032 Olympics, that’s a long term goal. In the short term I just want to keep surfing as many different kinds of waves as I can and sharpen up my air game.

Thanks Harry.

Lake Cathie Manor

Aged Care is a new residential aged care service located at 2 Saltwater Place

Lake Cathie  NSW 2445.

RESIDENTS

We opened the doors to our first residents on the 20th of March.

Introducing a brand-new aged care service located at 2 Saltwater Place Lake Cathie NSW 2445.

Just opened, this beautiful new home offers large format, single rooms with ensuite bathrooms. (Inter-connecting couples’ rooms are also available)

Wings are set in 3 cottages with each wing having the ability to adapt to single units if there is an infection outbreak.

There are safe outdoor walking paths and courtyards with raised garden beds for residents to garden, comfortable outdoor furniture and large market umbrellas.

Residents are able to enjoy the café area, library and theatre room as well as a varied and meaningful lifestyle program.

More information can be found on our website www.lcmanor.com.au

Anyone that is looking for accommodation, respite or permanent, please call Dayna Gibson on 5542 2600 to receive an information pack or to organise a tour of our beautiful new facility.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

We have donated back to the community and regenerated a large portion of our land, some 2.5 hectares (10,000 sqm) which is now accessible by the community.

This includes a water detention system of 3 ponds which safely filter water into Lake Cathie.

These water ponds offer a wonderful haven for the native fauna and flora. The area has been planted as a wild garden area and a koala corridor.

COMMITMENT

Planted 22 trees in the Koala corridor.

Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care have demonstrated their commitment to the community:

Planted 100 trees on the remainder of the garden area. Paid a vegetation management contribution of $120,000 over the next 20 years.

Donated 10,000sqm of land.

www.lcmanor.com.au

KIRK OWERS

Kirk Owers is a local photographer and travel writer, who has been all over the world capturing the essence of beautiful places in all corners of the planet, but he also finds great beauty in capturing weddings right here on the Mid North Coast! Kirk loves being a part of a couple’s big day and capturing the joy and emotion of events like this for them to look back on.

Hfavourite subjects to shoot?

I LIKE THE IDEA OF THESE PHOTOS HOLDING VALUE OVER TIME AND FUTURE GENERATIONS LOOKING AT THEM.

With my wedding work I love to document real moments and capture genuine emotions rather than put couples through a set of cliched poses. I think of my overall job as being a storyteller, capturing the big moments and telling details of the day. That said everyone wants to look awesome on their wedding day so I make sure that happens. What keeps me interested after nearly 20 years in the industry is that every wedding is different and you’re constantly adjusting your approach and tailoring it to the client and their tastes. Some couples are shy and sweet together, others exuberant and affectionate. You want to capture that too. Their way of being together.

ey Kirk. Can you share a bit about how you got into photography and what you love about it?

My Dad was always a keen amateur photographer. After a family holiday, he’d put on a big slideshow and it was a real event. For my young eyes, it was like a magic show seeing these frozen moments in time lit up and splashed all over a wall. My brother bought a good SLR camera and eventually passed it on to me when we were travelling overseas. I got into landscapes initially, then I fell in love with photojournalism and surf photography. I worked at a newspaper for a stint, freelanced for magazines, edited a surf mag, and started shooting a few weddings. I still do a bit of everything but weddings have been my main commercial focus for nearly 20 years now.

How would you describe your style of work, and what are some of your

So you shoot a lot of weddings here in the Port Macquarie region, what are some of the most challenging and rewarding things about shooting weddings?

Rain can be a challenge, but only if it’s bucketing down all day which has only happened to me once. It was a flood! Roads closed, missing guests, cows floating out to sea - the full catastrophe. Thankfully, the bridal party embraced the storm and we still got some cool photos. The best thing about my job is just being around so many shiny happy people. Who isn’t having fun at a wedding? It’s an honour to be allowed inside a couple’s inner circle during one of the biggest and most intense days of their life. Doing a good job and getting lovely feedback is very rewarding. I like the idea of these photos holding value over time and future generations looking at them.

Continued over...

KIRK OWERS

Do you have any standout moments from weddings that have really stayed with you, either because you got a killer shot or it was just a really special or funny moment?

Oh, so many. After most weddings I’m keen to do the first edit just to see if I’ve caught something a bit special, something that might have gone by quickly on the day. There’s always a lot of sweet unguarded moments. But it’s hard to beat the day I had when a pod of Southern Right Whales just started erupting in the background of a bridal party

beach shoot. The light was golden, the champagne was flowing and the newlyweds and their best friends were ecstatic. It felt like a blessing. On the funny side, I once had a sassy bride take over a drunken game of Two Up on Anzac Day, and I’ve heard plenty of very funny speeches.

We hear you’re also a travel writer, which must make for some amazing photo opportunities! Where have been some of your favourite locations to photograph over the years?

I’ve been very fortunate that’s for sure.

Antarctica is on the very top of my favourites list. It’s like nowhere on Earth. But I love going to new places – almost anywhereand trying to capture something of their essence with a camera. India is vibrant and colourful. The Rocky Mountains are austere and magnificent. Rio is high energy, sex and danger. Tahiti is divinely beautiful. New York is, well, it’s New York, and of course, Australia is an amazing country to travel and photograph and the best place in the world to live. So many special places. Like our own backyard.

Is there somewhere in the world you haven’t been yet that you would love to photograph?

I’ve never been to Africa but I’m going this May so I’m pretty pumped for that. I might need to invest in a bigger lens for wildlife photography. I’m going to South Africa for Escape (Sunday Telegraph), visiting Durban, Capetown and then on a safari.

Do you have any plans or aspirations for your photography career heading into the future?

I’m mentoring a promising young photographer, Noah Hazelwood, at the moment. He’s a great drone pilot and landscape photographer and he’s started filming some weddings with me. I recently got back from a shoot in the Solomon Islands so I’ve got lots of travel stories to write up and photos to edit and I’m busy with weddings too. My future plans are to work less and surf more but they don’t always pan out.

Where can we check out your work or get in touch?

I’m using social media less and less, but I still post wedding pics on Instagram (@ kirkowersweddings) fairly frequently. Also on Facebook (Kirk Owers Photography). My website has lots of my photography and is the best place to get in contact.

TOXTAILS 24, A CAPTIVATING CHARITY EVENT, RECENTLY ILLUMINATED THE SCENIC SHORES OF PORT MACQUARIE WITH ITS VIBRANT ALLURE AND BENEVOLENT PURPOSE. THIS COCKTAIL SOIRÉE, NESTLED AGAINST THE BACKDROP OF COASTAL ELEGANCE, BROUGHT TOGETHER COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND PHILANTHROPISTS ALIKE FOR AN EVENING OF COMPASSION AND CAMARADERIE AT THE ICONIC HELLO SAILOR VENUE.

Now in its third year, ToxTails 24 was created by Dr. Kristy Kostalas in 2022 as a testament to her vision of fostering community support for those in need. With each passing year, the event has grown in both attendance and impact, becoming a cornerstone of philanthropy in the region.

This year, ToxTails 24 aimed to support local women experiencing technology-assisted abuse, a sinister form of coercion that utilises digital tools to perpetuate control and manipulation. This type of abuse serves as a facilitator for coercive control, a pattern of behaviour that can be a precursor to physical violence and even homicide, particularly in relationships where no history of physical abuse exists.

With a resounding display of generosity, attendees rallied together, contributing to a remarkable fundraising total of almost $47,000, destined to support Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services. Every dollar raised pulsated with hope, poised to alleviate the burdens of those in need within the local community, providing vital resources and support for individuals and families affected by domestic and family violence. Through ToxTails, over $120,000 has been raised in 3 years for Liberty Services.

The success of ToxTails 24 exemplifies the power of collective goodwill and underscores the invaluable impact of charitable initiatives. Through unwavering dedication and boundless compassion, participants illuminated the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all, empowering organisations like Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services to continue their vital work in creating safer, healthier communities.

Gratitude extends to the main sponsors—Willow Days Co, Hello Sailor, Focus Magazine, and PMAC—whose unwavering support helped make this event possible. As the echoes of laughter and applause fade into the night, the legacy of ToxTails 24 endures as a testament to the extraordinary capacity for kindness and generosity within the Port Macquarie community,and, the dedicated and hard work of Dr Kristy Kostalas and her team at Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Carly & Brendan

Carly and Brendan Munday are the creative minds behind Only Lovers Le , the local apparel label bringing tie dye back with a bang! Discover the roots of their brand, and their commitment to sustainable fashion. Join us as we chat about their journey from a creative outlet to a flourishing business, cra ing pieces that celebrate everyday moments with colour and joy.

Hi guys. Can you share with us a bit about where the idea for Only Lovers Left came from?

Only Lovers Left was a creative outlet for us before it ever was a tie dye brand. It started in 2015 as a way for us to share our story and connect with like minded, free spirited souls on Instagram. (Back when it was just cool photos).

Around this time we began to experiment with hand-dyeing garments for ourselves and fell in love with the creative process of tie-dye. We wanted to incorporate our love for tie-dye and our creations into the Only Lovers Left story as it had become such a special part of our lives.

How would you describe your clothing designs? Where do you draw a lot of inspiration from? We love designing comfortable, easy to wear pieces bursting with colour to enhance that feeling of freedom found when exploring

nature. Clothing that will brighten your day

nature. Clothing that will brighten your day and make you feel special no matter what you are doing.

A lot of our inspiration comes from our coastal lifestyle here in Port Macquarie. Our favourite things to do haven’t changed over the years. You’ll find us bushwalking, picnicking and exploring the natural world around us. We’ll always be wearing our favourite clothing. Pieces that bring a special element to the everyday things. Because life should be like that, we should always celebrate the everyday moments. Life should be a celebration. OLL is the manifestation of Joy, Optimism, Gratitude and Summer fun. Tie dye and good vibes.

Over time, we started to create pieces for mamas, which led into a focus on women’s fashion. This is where things really started to take off for us.

We’ve always been big believers in dressing up for the little occasions, it’s powerful and can change the way you feel about your day. That’s not to say you shouldn’t be comfortable. This is the foundation of what we believe in as dye artists and as a brand. We create from a desire to share this belief with our beautiful customers.

When did you decide to turn your passion into a business?

It happened so organically. The business idea was originally formed from our love for the art of tie dye, it’s why we are so passionate about what we do. After we had our first son River something was definitely ignited in us that drove our business to the next level. Our dream was to support our family entirely through our art, we pinch ourselves everyday that we’ve been able to achieve it.

How has OLL evolved over the years?

In the beginning a lot of our pieces were for kids. Our rompers were some of the first designs to become popular. Over time, we started to create pieces for mamas, which led into a focus on women’s fashion. This is where things really started to take off for us. Drops began selling out week after week. We have such an incredibly supportive community, both far and wide online and of course locally. We are so blessed.

Through the twists and turns of life our brand is a project we keep close to our hearts. As we grow as a family so does our passion for what we do. It has remained a constant source of happiness and inspiration for us. We are currently exploring ways we can expand and spread the tie dye love even further.

Continued over...

Can you tell us a bit about your process for designing, dying and making your apparel?

Creating a collection will start well before each season begins. An idea will form and simmer for sometime before it comes to fruition.

Ultimately for us it’s about designing pieces that are going to make our OLL tribe look and feel amazing on their everyday adventures + be an incredible canvas for us to work on.

We work with manufacturers around the world to help us bring these ideas to life. The sampling process begins and will continue back and forth until we perfect each design.

In addition to our seasonal collections we have some core pieces like our Oversized Mum Tees and Tee Dresses that are available regularly throughout the year.

Once we receive our blanks the dye process begins.

We start by experimenting with colours and map out a plan of which palettes and tie designs will be featured in the upcoming season.

We use a variety of dye methods but our favourite and signature method is ice dying. Once our garments are tied we lay them on our dye racks and cover them with ice. Then we sprinkle on our chosen dyes and let the ice melt the dye through the fabric. We love this method for the magical watercolour effect it creates. Our heart and soul lives in every piece and each part of this process. We carefully consider each design from the shape and style of the garment right through to the dye process.

You guys are committed to using nontoxic, low impact dyes. Why was this an important decision for you?

We’re aiming to tread lightly on the planet. It’s not why we created OLL, that’s just how we run it. Using non - toxic dyes and low impact practices in our business is a no brainer.

It’s just a bonus that they happen to be our favourite dyes to use for the incredible results we can produce with them. We prioritise sustainable practices, we want to ensure our processes aren’t causing any harm to the natural world around us and ultimately our one and only precious Earth.

Babies can chew on clothing dyed with these dyes and chemically sensitive people can wear fabrics dyed with them. Fibre reactive dyes are the only dyes this is true of.

Can you tell us a bit about these dyes and how you choose what to use for your pieces? What are you looking for when sourcing dyes and materials?

We use Procion fibre reactive dyes for the rich vibrant hues that can be created and because the colours are permanent.

The dye bonds directly with the molecules in the fibre, so nothing washes out once dyed properly. These dyes are referred to as low impact.

We choose to use these dyes as they contain no toxic substances. Babies can chew on clothing dyed with these dyes and chemically sensitive people can wear fabrics dyed with them. Fibre reactive dyes are the only dyes this is true of. We currently work with multiple dye brands who produce this type of dye. We’ve tried and tested many over the years and have found what works best for us in our processes, and our core colours that we use and work with all of the time. Of course we are always experimenting with new colours to create

something fresh and exciting with each drop. When it comes to producing our blank garments we choose to work with manufacturers who provide ethical and fair work conditions for their workers and always use natural fibres, mostly GOTS certified organic.

Where can we check out your designs or get in touch?

We hang out on Instagram a lot, come find us there, sometimes we dance!

Feel free to reach out in our DM’s or via our website. Our drops can sell out super quick (one of the reasons we pinch ourselves everyday!)

If you sign up to our VIP list on our website we can keep you updated with drop dates via email and if you see us around town come say hi, we love meeting new people! Sometimes we even catch our designs out in the wild, it always puts the biggest smiles on our faces!

Instagram - only_lovers_left Website - onlyloversleft.com

APRIL COLLINS BOOKSELLERS

BOOK Review Servo

By David Goodwin

RRP: $34.99

If you’ve ever worked in a servo, or know someone who has, you’ll identify with David’s accounts of his experience on the graveyard shift. What he assumes will be a clock-in, clock-out routine job turns out to be anything but. His workplace is one of pandemonium and Mad-Hatter lunacy with bearded men in sundresses, selfproclaimed mystics seeking to exchange wisdom for cigarettes, and goth kids high on MDMA armed with bags of rats ready to be unleashed on unsuspecting customers. David’s shift is anything

What Happened to Nina?

By Dervla McTiernan

RRP $24.99

For fans of Dervla’s books, this story is one for you. After a weekend away with her boyfriend Simon, Nina vanishes. Simon’s explanation about what happened in their last hours together doesn’t add up. Nina’s parents push the police for answers, and Simon’s parents rush to protect him, hiring expensive lawyers and a PR firm that quickly ramps up a vicious, nothing-is-off-limits media campaign pitting two families against each other. Everyone chooses a side, and the story goes

but ordinary. A memoir full of riotous hilarity and sometimes fraught with the affect it had on him, both mentally and physically.

viral. Nina’s family is under siege. Out-gunned by Simon’s wealthy, powerful family, Nina’s parents recognise that if playing by the rules won’t get them anywhere, it’s time to break them.

FASHION x GUILT(Y PLEASURE)

Over the years I’ve heard it all… “If I buy one more pair of jeans…” “My wardrobe is FULL of things I just never wear” “If I buy this, I need to throw three things out!”

Why is it that so many of us have such a complicated relationship with fashion and more importantly, our personal wardrobes?

A lot of the time, it comes back to what kind of consumer we are when investing in fashion. For some, buying a new item of clothing performs a kind of catharsis, hence the term “Retail Therapy”. But depending on how this “fix” is executed it can either provide a feeling of immense satisfaction, or induce another emotion, “Buyers Remorse”.

Some of us are very considered when purchasing new items, leaning towards the “Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe” with refined, quality pieces that will not only stand the test of time, but also transcend possible fashion faux pas and ensure a timeless aesthetic for the wearer. Conversely, others amongst us are what I refer to as Bowerbird Buyers. The brighter, more eye-catching the item, the better!

Of course, there’s room for us all in the fashion world. Wherever you sit in the spectrum of buying habits, there’s one unifying feature that unites the majority of our wardrobes, with only the most conscientious of us escaping the trap. Any ideas?

Studies show (OK, it’s my educated guess) that 99.98% of us have more items in our wardrobes than we actually wear.

Why does this happen? There’s many legitimate reasons this overabundance can occur. Over time our personal style can evolve, our bodies shift and change and therefore once beloved items may no longer fit or suit us. We may hold onto items for sentimental reasons. Perhaps we have found ourselves self soothing at times, buying for the sake of buying, only to have these items still hanging in our wardrobes BNWT (Brand New, With Tags) months or even years later.

Let me be clear. There’s no shame or judgement here. As women especially, we know all too well the impact of marketing giants and social media influencers, giving us a nudge or even a push to buy the latest on trend items.

In recent times though, terms such as Swap and Sell, Sustainable Fashion and the Circular Fashion Movement have been trending. Awareness of the impact unused and excessive fashion has on the environment, let alone our personal space has increased as more transparency into the industry emerges. So what can we do about this on a personal level?

For me, I see a lot of guilt attached to buying clothes. We want to enjoy a new jumper, pair

with LUSANNA FROM MEG + ME

of jeans or invest in a new leather jacket; but we already have some if not all of those items in our wardrobes… we just don’t wear them (for the reasons why, see above)!

This is where the guilt comes in. For many of us it can be spending good money on items that we loved at one time, but we simply don’t wear anymore. They not only take up physical space in our wardrobes, these pieces take up mental space in our heads, and you guessed it, that’s where the guilt comes in. So what to do? One way to remedy this excess is to bundle it all up and pop it in a local charity bin. You could gift some pieces to friends, or hold a Sip + Swap afternoon. Online marketplaces are another option. But for many of us, our once treasured items are more valuable to us than those options. The reality is we may have literally hundreds or thousands of unrealised dollars sitting in our wardrobes.

Therefore, next month for one day only, I will be opening up my shop to allow you to be the seller and pocket the proceeds. I will be giving you an opportunity to release the guilt and realise all that money tied up in your unwanted clothing. That’s right… Your clothes, in my shop, for sale.

For further information and to register interest in this unique opportunity, please send an email to: thebossgirl@megandme.com.au

BIKE CLUB Classic

PORT MACQUARIE

HLance Munro is the President of the Port Macquarie Classic Bike Club, who will be hosting a bike show at the Settlers Inn car park on Sunday 14th April with all proceeds this year going to the Hastings Disabled Surfers Association.

i Lance. Can you tell us a bit about the Port Macquarie Classic Bike Club and how it all started?

The club was started in 2011 by John Butler. He had bought a 1970s Ducati 750GT and thought that it would be good to find some other owners on similarly aged bikes with a view to going on some rides together. He then had the idea of starting a club for classic bike enthusiasts – there was no such club in Port Macquarie at that time, the nearest ones being in Taree and Coffs Harbour. There were thirteen members initially. Now John is the club’s only life member.

What led you to get involved with the club and what has your role been?

I have been a member of the club for about eight years, having joined soon after moving to Port from Sydney. I had retired early and was looking for something to do in my spare time, so I bought a 1966 Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle that needed a fair bit of work. I joined the club to get more information on how to complete the restoration and to get the bike on to historic registration once the bike was rideable. I also hadn’t been an active

rider for quite a few years so was looking for a riding environment with lots of support. I am the current President and Treasurer, having previously been Treasurer. I have also been on the organising committee for the previous three bike shows.

Can you tell us a bit about the kinds of bikes you have within the club and about the group of members?

We currently have 136 members. Many are middle aged gentlemen, but we do have some younger riders and a few female members. As a “classic bike club” the bikes have to be 30 years old or more to be eligible for club registration. The oldest bikes that get ridden on club rides are a 1927 Triumph 500TT, a 1948 BSA 500 and a 1953 AJS 500. A lot of 1980s and early 90s Japanese superbikes are now also eligible, so a ride day can have a wide variety of bikes in attendance. Many members own multiple machines (you can never have too many bikes – the numbers are only limited by

the space you have in your shed!).

My current bikes are the 1966 Triumph Thunderbird, a 1993 Ducati Monster 900 and a 1980 Kawasaki Z1R which is a work in progress (and has been for years)!

What is involved in being part of the club and what do you all typically get up to when you meet?

I had retired early and was looking for something to do in my spare time, so I bought a 1966 Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle that needed a fair bit of work.

Apart from paying your annual fee to maintain membership, there are no specific requirements for membership. We don’t specify that members must attend a set number of meetings or rides each year as some clubs do.

So you can be as active as you want to be. Our monthly meetings are normally well attended. As well as our normal club business, sometimes we have a motorcycle themed quizz; at other times someone will bring in a bike part or related object for a” show and tell”. We have a shorter “coffee ride” each Saturday morning with a monthly longer ride for the more adventurous riders.

What do you enjoy about being part of the Classic Bike Club?

There is a great sense of camaraderie among the members. Our rides normally involve having a coffee or lunch somewhere where you get a chance to catch up with members and talk about their latest bike acquisitions, modifications, workshop disasters or health issues. You can get away from everything else in your life, go on a ride and then talk about it with like minded individuals at the destination. Given the ages of the bikes, breakdowns are not uncommon but there is always someone there to lend a hand, whether that be tools or a bike recovery by trailer. That camaraderie is also there when members may need support through the tough times that life invariably throws up. I have made some good friends through the club. The club is hosting a bike show at the Settlers Inn car park on Sunday 14th April, how long has this event been held for and what’s it all about?

Most classic bike clubs will put on some sort of large event each year or so. A lot will put on a rally but we wanted to do something a bit different so John Butler initiated the Classic Bike Show. This is the seventh one that the club has hosted. All have been in the car park of the

Settlers Inn hotel and we are very appreciative of the space and support that they give us.

Shannons Insurance have also been generous with their assistance over the years. The show is also a way for us to raise funds to help a local charity. What are the requirements for people wanting to bring bikes along or for those wanting to come and check it out?

You can get away from everything else in your life, go on a ride and then talk about it with like minded individuals at the destination.

15 years. It is a volunteer organisation and is open to participants of any age with any disability and its main aim is to put “smiles on dials” through either a ride on a surfboard or a trip up the beach on their purpose built wheelchair. Flynns Beach is their preferred venue due to its ease of access for both participants and volunteers.

The show is open to all bikes that are thirty years old or more. Registrations will commence on the day at 8.00am and there is an entry fee of $5 per bike. Spectator entry is by a gold coin donation. Bikes will be judged, and trophies awarded in various categories based on the age of the bike – eg Best Bike 1950s, Best Bike 1960s, etc.

All proceeds this year are going to the Hastings Disabled Surfers Association, can you tell us a bit about this group and why the club chose to support them?

The Disabled Surfers Association has about twenty branches throughout Australia and has been operating in the Hastings area for about

We considered several charities to support this year but chose the Disabled Surfers Association as it is a more grassroots volunteer organisation without the higher profile of some other charities. We consider it a very worthwhile cause and have seen the joy it brings to participants. How can people find out more about the club and the upcoming Classic Motorcycle Show?

Visit our website at www.pmclassicbikes.com. au and then click on the Event Calendar tab for details of the show. For information on joining the club, click on the Join Us tab on our website.

You would be silly not to get chilly. The Big Chill Festival –embrace the vibe, and feel the chill.

FESTIVAL

Get ready for big vibes and good times in 2024 at The Big Chill Festival in Armidale.

With The Rubens and DIESEL headlining the festival you know you’re in for a good time, but the line up and entertainment doesn’t stop there. With award-winning homegrown craft beer, delicious drinks from local distilleries and wineries and gourmet food trucks The Big Chill festival is one to pop in your calendar.

The family-friendly weekend will be action packed with arts & crafts activities, PAW Patrol, a Little Chillers kids' zone and a Silent Disco. Bring a picnic blanket and the whole family as there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie enthusiast, or someone seeking a weekend at the top of the ranges, The Big Chill is a festival you don’t want to miss.

Dance the night away under the open sky or gather around a fire pit to embrace the vibe, and feel the chill in Armidale on May 18 and 19, 2024.

Tickets are on sale and selling fast. Head over to bigchill.com.au to buy yours now.

Saturday, May 18th 11am – 9pm &

Sunday, May 19th 11am – 5:30pm

The Big Chill Festival @bigchillfestival bigchill.com.au

Gum Ball

One of Australia’s most cherished cultural escapes, The Gum Ball Music and Arts Festival returns this April Anzac long weekend for its annual 3-day long live music program.

The supreme live music and art experience, held at the majestic bushlands of Dashville (Wonnarua) Lower Belford, Hunter Valley, NSW, boasts an enviable reputation as one of the best laid-back camping festivals in existence. In 2024, it’s a well-considered and diverse line up, full of discovery and intrigue, featuring 36 Australian &

international acts, both emerging and established artists who are destined to impress as they all play one-by-one in the intimate bushland amphitheatre. Highlights include performances from Dan Sultan, Emily Wurramara, Tropical F*Storm, Claire Anne Taylor, Vaudeville Smash, Hard-Ons, Kid Congo & The Pink Monkey Birds, plus there’s live art, comedy, pro skateboarding, markets, workshops and more…

Don’t miss The Gum Ball Festival, April  26-28, 2024.  Tickets available at www.dashville.com.au

26th~28th APRIL 2024

26th~28th APRIL 2024

DAN SULTAN | TROPICAL F*CK STORM

DAN SULTAN | TROPICAL F*CK STORM

KID CONGO & THE PINK MONKEY BIRDS | EMILY WURRAMARA

RVG | COTERIE | THE LACHY DOLEY GROUP | HARD-ONS

RVG | COTERIE | THE LACHY DOLEY GROUP | HARD-ONS

KID CONGO & THE PINK MONKEY BIRDS | EMILY WURRAMARA

GARETH LIDDIARD ( ) | DALLAS CRANE | BATTLESNAKE

GARETH LIDDIARD ( ) | DALLAS CRANE | BATTLESNAKE

TEENY TINY STEVIES | VAUDEVILLE SMASH | BULLHORN

TEENY TINY STEVIES | VAUDEVILLE SMASH | BULLHORN

CLAIRE ANNE TAYLOR | THE BURES BAND | BURGER JOINT

CLAIRE ANNE TAYLOR | THE BURES BAND | BURGER JOINT

THE MAIN GUY & THE OTHER GUYS | CHIMERS | MARVELL

THE MAIN GUY & THE OTHER GUYS | CHIMERS | MARVELL

MELODY POOL | KARL S WILLIAMS | JOE MUNGOVAN | QUEENIE

RADIUM DOLLS | CHECKERBOARD LOUNGE | MAGPIE DIARIES

DAVE WELLS | SALARYMEN | JET CITY SPORTS CLUB

DAVE WELLS | SALARYMEN | JET CITY SPORTS CLUB

MELODY POOL | KARL S WILLIAMS | JOE MUNGOVAN | QUEENIE RADIUM DOLLS | CHECKERBOARD LOUNGE | MAGPIE DIARIES

DON’T THANK ME, SPANK ME | GEORGIE WINCHESTER SPECIAL

DON’T THANK ME, SPANK ME | GEORGIE WINCHESTER SPECIAL

JOEY LEIGH WAGTAIL | JUNIOR BURGER | BUTTERKNIFE

JOEY LEIGH WAGTAIL | JUNIOR BURGER | BUTTERKNIFE

SF WRENS | SITTING DOWN | DASHVILLE PROGRESS SOCIETY YOUNG GUMS YOUTH MENTORSHIP SHOWCASE PLEASE WELCOME

YOUNG GUMS YOUTH MENTORSHIP SHOWCASE

SF WRENS | SITTING DOWN | DASHVILLE PROGRESS SOCIETY

Learn to Weave

A full day workshop for new weavers. Come for a fun day and learn the basics of multi - shaft weaving.

All equipment and yarns provided and morning tea provided. Finish with a small table runner to take home. Comprehensive handouts and resource list.

LEARN a brief history of woven textiles.

• Basic terminology

• Planning a project

• Using colour

• Hands on weaving practice

• Finishing the fabric

Four places only. Email Gail at haventextiles15@gmail.com for further information or to book your place with a deposit. $220 for six hours of fun and exploration.

WEAVE

Saturday 6th April LEARN TO

Come for a fun day with experienced weaver GAIL ELLIS WHO WILL INTRODUCE YOU TO THE JOY OF WEAVING.

No experience necessary.

WHERE Pilot House boatshed, CAMDEN HEAD

WHEN Sat, April 6th, 2024 FOR BOOKINGS

haventextiles15@gmail.com

Drift

BAR CAFE RESTAURANT

Drift Bar Cafe Restaurant, located in the Port City Bowling Club, is the top choice for locals looking for a welcoming environment and budget-friendly dining. Situated in the lively setting of Port City Bowling Club, Drift Bar Cafe Restaurant provides a warm atmosphere where families can come together to enjoy tasty meals that won’t break the bank. From classic schnitzels, steaks, and fresh seafood to delightful vegetarian options, there’s something for every palate at

Drift Bar Cafe Restaurant. While the kids have fun in the outdoor play area with interactive activity packs, you can relax with your loved ones. Make sure to visit our website to discover our weekly specials, available from Sunday to Friday! Keep an eye out this month for our new seasonal menu commencing Mid-April! To secure your table, we recommend booking in advance by contacting our helpful reception team at 6583 1133 or through our website at portcity.com.au.

FRANKIES

Fun Vibes, Delicious Food & Sunny Mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you! Yes YOU! With a fun team and delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us! Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and

freshest salads.

Fresh juices are perfect for these warm spring days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate.

Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

Open 7 days a week from 6:30am till 3:00pm

Closed Public Holidays

Yes! We even carry your groceries to your car...

BIG THE Dig

The 2024 Sunrise Rotary / Stihl Shop PMQ / Port City Bowling Club Big Dig is so much fun!

Sunday May 19th from 8:30am at Town Beach Port Macquarie

What is The Big Dig? What happens on the day of the event? Since 2012, The Big Dig has been an annual pirate-themed family event. Participants, both children and adults, eagerly search the beach for buried tokens and everyone gets a prize. Families, including grandparents and extended members, join in the fun, often dressing up in pirate costumes to enhance the experience. In 2023, tickets sold out within an hour, with 440 children and over 180 adults signing up. It's heartwarming to see many families return each year for this exciting event.

What are some of the activities that will be available on the day? Exciting activities for children and families! Explore a variety of engaging activities such as face painting, a jumping castle and bungy jump, rock painting and a dunking station. Savour delicious treats, including our Rotary BBQ, special cupcakes, and coffee (for grown-ups!).

This year, we will once again have a silent disco, offering a fresh and inclusive experience for the community, especially catering to those with sensory challenges.

The lively ambience is infectious, with Rotary volunteers and many kids (and even some parents!) dressing up as pirates, fully immersing themselves in the festive spirit of the day. There are loads of prizes being given out at the event! What’s up for grabs and do you rely on prizes being donated?

Every child receives a "treasure" package filled with age-appropriate goodies sourced from various places. Thanks to our generous sponsors such as Port City Bowling Club, our major Platinum sponsor since 2013 and Stihl Shop Port Macquarie, who have come on board as a Gold sponsor this year. Our Family Dig ensures a prize worth a minimum of $50, some valued even higher and some reaching hundreds of dollars! We rely on donations from local businesses and have garnered immense support over the years, creating an exciting experience for both adults and children.

How do you hope the funds raised will help the recipients? At Rotary Sunrise, our primary objective is to assist our local community. We understand the significant impact even a donation of $500 can have on our local charities. Collaborating closely with partner community organisations during recent natural disasters, such as floods and bushfires, has allowed us to witness firsthand the committed teams providing direct support where it is most needed.

Can you tell us about what the event has been able to help with in previous years? We have donated funds to some amazing organisations, including Liberty Domestic Violence Services, Headspace, Make a Difference, Orange Sky Laundry, Sailability, Hastings Education Fund and many others.

Can you tell us about some of the team involved in organising this event? Our incredible team devotes their valuable time all year round to ensure the success of the event. Planning commences in October of

the preceding year (in this case, October 2023) and involves tasks such as securing prizes and sponsors, managing online tickets and promotional materials, baking delightful cupcakes, grilling delicious BBQ on the event day, and the challenging work of preparing the "pits" to ensure they are safe, tidy, and ready for enthusiastic treasure hunters.

For those that want to contribute but can’t make it on the day, what are some ways community members can get involved and support this cause? Rotary Sunrise is excited to invite community members to explore the wonderful volunteering opportunities available in our local area. Just dedicating an hour or two to helping others can make a significant impact by changing a life, forging new friendships, or igniting a lifelong passion. Moreover, if you wish to find out more about Rotary, please visit our website at: https://sunrise-rotary.org.au/

When and where? Can you give us the details we need to know to join in on the 19th May 2024? You can buy your tickets online on Facebook, by searching for Big Dig Treasure Hunt, or at: https://www.facebook.com/ events/424820796713166

Tickets can be purchased on the day, however there are usually only a limited number remaining, and they always sell out within the first hour…we recommend getting there early if you haven’t purchased ahead of time!

Head on down to Town Beach from 8.30am, with registration starting from 9am, the official opening at 10am, and the “digs” starting straight after.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 45

PLAY IT SAFE

Tfocus contributor.

Palate

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET with LOU PERRI

Are you the type to ‘ERR ON THE SIDE OF CAUTION’? Or is it more your style to ‘GO OUT ON A LIMB’ or ‘JUMP IN AT THE DEEP END’?

here are a plethora of idioms to describe our tendencies for or against the taking of risks. As humans, we tend to fall into either camp based on our nature/nurture for the most part.

Of course from our vantage point, roaming the restaurant floor, we find ourselves in a perfect position to witness examples of this phenomenon from each and every guest seated at each and every table.

Certainly, it’s the perusal of a menu that separates the risk takers from the rather nots. There’s that guest who listens with rapturous attention to the description of the specials and will happily go with the flow with any and every recommendation. Chances are, seated at the very same table - there’s another diner who doesn’t even need to look at the menu as they already knew, as soon as the table had been booked in fact – exactly what they were going to order!

This is where a seemingly innocuous menu change can cause all kinds of havoc as the removal of such a dish can cause all kinds of

havoc and unrest with the person that likes what they like and does not want to digress, thank you very much!

On the other end of the spectrum, a menu that doesn’t change enough is infinitely frustrating to the more adventurous prototype. It is a perplexing problem and balance of the old vs the new that no restauranteur since the dawn of time has managed to ever perfect. However it would be safe to say that most operators themselves, in terms of playing to the crowd, would gravitate more to the ‘play it safe’ philosophy when it comes to their overall propositions.

Keeping those tried and tested old favourites on the menu means keeping bums on seats. It’s those stalwarts and sticklers that are the very foundations of the identity of the restaurant itself.

Free rein creativity and revolutionary new concepts are of course the dream of every chef in the land but ultimately what is most likely to keep solidly chugging out the door is the deeply familiar and most reassuring of menu items.

This is precisely why renowned food writer

and restaurant critic Jill Dupleix thinks that “menus in Australian restaurants are starting to look the same”. She puts some of the reasoning down to particular types of produce that are more readily available than others, as well as the staffing shortages we’ve experienced in our industry of late, but cites our own predilections as diners that are primarily dictating what we eat. We are the ones choosing the ‘burrata’ and the ‘kingfish crudo’ over and over again and that’s why we keep on getting it!

Jill goes on to blame the algorithms of social media and streaming platforms that end up feeding us a “regurgitation of popular, what is popular, and what is going to get the likes being fed back to us”. This filters in to every part of our lives and indeed via some convoluted pathway…we wind up eating what some insta influencer has decided we will eat. And in fact it isn’t anywhere near as adventurous as we think it is.

Hmm, a bit OTT ? Or just life in 2024. Never mind, it’s all too hard. Think I’ll order the Negroni now and perhaps the Burrata….

Little’s Ken

YOU COULD SAY THEY ARE NOTHING BUT “PEAR-FECT.”

Well it’s that time of year again when we receive our delicious local pears from the amazing ‘Greenhill Orchards.” We found this orchard just over one year ago and ever since then, they have given us nothing short of authentic homegrown flavours. So good in fact that they bottle it up and capture the flavours by whole pressing the pears into beautiful glass jars to enjoy all year round.

I have never known so many different varieties of Red D’Anjou, Nashi, Howell, Bosc and the Winter Cole. Remember when you buy local it stays local. Let’s look after these unique farms before they “disap-pear!”

Makayla Steele

Makayla Steele has been a member of Wauchope Girl Guides since she was 5 years old, and has recently completed her Queen’s Guide; the highest level a guide (under 18) can achieve!

Hi Makayla. Can you tell us about when you first became involved with Girl Guides?

I first knew about Girl Guides a few months after I turned 5, when my Dad suggested I try it out after seeing an advertisement on the way home. I have been a guide since then which is coming up to 14 years now. Now both my sisters and Mum have also joined and as such guiding has been a noticeably big part of our life for quite some time.

What do you enjoy most about Girl Guides? What have been some highlights for you over the years you’ve been involved?

Working with the younger girls as both a senior guide and a leader has been the best part of guiding. Being able to share the knowledge I’ve learned from those older than me and continuing the long-standing tradition. In the same way, being able to make connections from the numerous leaders and older girls I’ve met and been lucky enough to learn from.

Within guiding we learn different survival skills in the guise of camping. Whilst I’m not much of an outdoorsy person myself, these events really do teach girls helpful skills, and leave you with lifelong memories of sleeping squished up with friends in tents.

Whilst I’m not much of an outdoorsy person myself, these events really do teach girls helpful skills, and leave you with lifelong memories.

Can you share a bit about the Wauchope club and what you get up to at Girl Guides for those that don’t know a lot about it?

Well, Wauchope Girl Guides started back in 1952. We have been meeting at the Rotary Hall since approximately 1956 where we remain today. We currently have 3 age groups – 5-9 years, 10-13 years and 14-18 years. Activities can vary depending on age and time of the year, but we can be doing anything from arts and crafts, cooking, life skills, games, outdoor activities, to planning and attending camps, these being the most requested activities. We

talk to the girls about what they would like to be doing, get their involvement and build our weekly programs around that. Cooking is well liked and as such something we try to indulge often. We also participate in yearly activities like Thinking Day, which is our founders’ birthdays, participate in Clean Up Australia Day, marching at Anzac Day, local Christmas events, as well as sleepout under the stars at Taronga zoo etc. This is just a snippet of the fun and adventure we experience; the best way to find out more is to come along and see for yourself!

You recently completed your Queen’s Guide Award, what does this mean for you and what was involved in completing the Award?

I have always been interested in earning badges since I was a junior guide and that started with the smaller badges that gets kids interested in

many different topics.

The Queen’s Guide is the highest level a guide (under 18) can achieve and, to me, signifies the culmination of all my years of guiding thus far. The award involves approximately 9 challenges based on the fundamentals of guiding, as well as expanding one’s skill set in an area of their choice. For me this was the arts, or more specifically jewellery making and cake decorating which I explored; I even created a blog to follow my progress. At 14 I became eligible to complete the award, with all my reports needing to be submitted before I turned 18. In the end, it took me just under two years to accomplish. The first Queen’s Guide achieved in Wauchope was in 1972 and the one before me was in 2014. I was grateful to have Wauchope’s 2nd Queen’s Guide recipient attend my local morning tea held in November last year.

Our conversation started when she heard us talking about how Wauchope was mispronounced during the ceremony, as she had been to our area before and knew the correct pronunciation.

This both helped me to achieve my Queen’s Guide as well as give me some insight into what guide age girls can get out of guiding. COVID also had its own challenges, as the world went into lockdown and put a halt on some of the more socially reliant aspects that needed to be reworked, especially the hours of community service that is to be completed within 3 months. Luckily, I had some amazing people supporting me and helping me to come up with alternatives, such as doing some of the activities over Zoom instead.

Can you tell us a bit about the recognition ceremony you attended and what it felt like for you to receive this recognition of your achievements?

she had been to our area before and knew the correct pronunciation.

You are one of the more senior members at Wauchope, can anyone be a part of Guides and what sort of roles are there?

Of course, It’s not just for young girls, there are many different roles depending on how much someone wants to be involved. The guide leaders work directly with the girls and ensure that the regular meetings are fun, engaging and teach life skills. Adult volunteers are very similar in their role, only with a more assistive focus. Each unit also has a collective of volunteers that aid in the fundraising and management, called a support group. The best way to get involved is to get in touch with your local unit for more information.

What would you say to others thinking of getting involved in Girl Guides?

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced whilst working towards the Queen’s Guide Award and how did you overcome them?

Peer involvement Is an important part of completing the award. Unfortunately, my senior guide unit had always been small but trying to meet the criteria did become difficult. In order to overcome this, I centered my activities around the guide age group (10-14) and included them in the feedback process.

It was a very unique experience to be honest, and unlike any other guiding ceremony I’ve been a part of. It took place at Government House, Sydney, in September and we were presented with our framed certificates by the Governor General. There were only 12 young women being recognized for their efforts, coming from all parts of NSW. Talking with them all and hearing about their own experiences with this award was interesting to say the least. I also got to talk to the Governor General socially after the morning tea in the lovely gardens. Our conversation started when she heard us talking about how Wauchope was mispronounced during the ceremony, as

If not for any other reason, the community that can be gained from guiding is unbelievable. Even though I’ve only shifted to being an adult member recently, the time I’ve spent as both a child and an adult has given me the opportunity to meet numerous amazing women from all walks of life and places in NSW. Even as I leave for university, I know that I will have a place I’ll feel a connection to with people I’ve had the chance to meet through local events and other guiding gatherings.

Facebook – Wauchope Girl Guides

Wauchopedm@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au

www.joinguides.com.au

Migraine? Is it a

Compared to tension or "regular" headaches, migraines come with a distinct and more severe set of symptoms, often proving challenging to manage with typical remedies like stretching, pain relievers, and hydration.

When a migraine strikes, individuals may experience a myriad of symptoms, including seeing auras, neck pain, tingling in the face, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, dizziness, and, of course, a throbbing headache ranging from moderate to debilitating. It's the kind of headache that can confine you to a dark and quiet room for an extended period.

What are the causes of migraines?

Migraines can be linked to various causes, and triggers may differ from person to person.

Unfortunately, gender seems to play a role, with women being three times more likely than men to suffer from migraines. Hormonal changes can also be a contributing factor, as many women report a connection between their migraines and their menstrual cycle. An often-overlooked cause of migraines is irritation or entrapment of the Occipital nerve(s) at the base of the skull. This can happen due to reasons such as head-forward

posture (think computer desk posture) causing muscle spasms in the neck and shoulders, which can entrap the Occipital nerve(s). Additionally, neck traumas like whiplash injuries can lead to entrapment and potentially contribute to migraines. For more information or to find out how we can help with migraines and tension headaches please contact us today.

Care OptionsUnderstanding

As we get older, the basics of living can become trickier. While the prospect of engaging with aged care services can feel daunting, accessing the right support at the right time is the best way to improve wellbeing and stay safe.

Aged care encompasses a broad spectrum of services, ranging from cleaning and help with accessing appointments, assistive equipment and home modifications, right through to specialist accommodation.

Finding the right services, tailored to your circumstances, can help you maintain your quality of life and stay connected with your community.

Government-funded home care options: The Australian Government subsidises in-home aged care under two streams – the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP).

What is the Commonwealth Home Support Program? The Commonwealth Home Support

Programme (CHSP) is described as helping ‘older Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home’.

What is a Home Care Package or an HCP? Home Care Packages are for people who need more intensive support, or a comprehensive range of services, to remain safely at home.

The packages are flexible to meet emerging needs and are designed to respond to identified care requirements as well as your health and wellbeing goals.

There are four levels of Home Care Packages with provision across personal care, support services and nursing, allied health and clinical services.

Looking for more information? Trilogy Care is a registered Home Care Package provider,

offering self-managed Home Care Package options to approved care recipients. If you have applied for, or have been approved for a Home Care Package, contact Trilogy Care to learn how to make the most of your Home Care Package budget.

NSW Seniors Festival Expo 2024

The Trilogy Care team will be at the NSW Seniors Festival Expo on the 13 and 14 March at the International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour. You can find us at site 49 and 50 and talking on the main stage on Saturday and Sunday during the lunch session. Not going to the NSW Seniors Festival Expo but would like more information? Go to trilogycare. com.au or call us on 1300 459 190.

As autumn brings its cooler temperatures, it's a signal not just for a change in wardrobe but also an opportunity to refresh and adapt our fitness routines. The shift from the bright, warm, humid summer days to the cooler, darker days of autumn can affect our motivation and preferences when it comes to staying active. A season transition offers a perfect moment to reassess and revitalise our health and fitness strategies, especially after a summer that might have taken us slightly off course from where we set our intentions back in January.

The cooler air and earlier sunsets characteristic of autumn can impact our motivation to lace up the shoes for a walk or run or head to the gym. This change in the environment is a natural cue to reconsider the timing of our workouts. While early morning jogs were invigorating in the summer warmth, a midday stroll under the gentle autumn sun might now be more appealing and practical. This small adjustment not only aligns better with the changing climate but also provides a much needed break in the middle of the day, recharging us for the afternoon's tasks.  It might help you to beat the arvo slump, keep you warm and keep your daily step count up.

Autumn is an ideal time to reevaluate the types of exercise we engage in. The cooler weather is conducive to different forms of physical activity that might have been less comfortable during the heat of summer.  Autumn is a really great time for getting outdoors and walking trails, jogging and outdoor training as the weather is usually lovely in Port Macquarie during the day. For many, the heat and humidity of summer can make getting into nature just uncomfortable. Cooler weather also generally means that our bodies can feel stiff and less mobile. It is important to recognise that you might need a longer warm up, to get your body ready for exercise than you felt you needed in the warmer months. Cooler evenings can also be a nice time to work on your flexibility and mobility in the warmth of your own home or after a good workout.

For those who prefer the indoors, it's an excellent opportunity to explore new classes or routines offered by local fitness centres like Miss Motivator. With a variety of indoor classes designed to cater to the needs and interests of women of all ages, such a facility can provide the perfect setting to try something new. Whether it's strength training, or a dance class or yoga, experimenting with different forms of exercise can rekindle your motivation and

UPDATE

FROM MISS MOTIVATOR with RACHEL LEMAN

Welcome to the April Fitness Update and welcome to the cooler evenings and shorter days.  This month let’s chat about how these changes in the season can effect how you feel.

perhaps uncover a new passion.

As we adapt our routines, connecting with others who share similar goals can provide additional motivation and support. Fitness communities offer a space to share experiences, challenges, and successes, making the journey more enjoyable and less solitary.

The cooler weather is not just a cue for a wardrobe change but a prompt for a reassessment of our fitness routines. This natural transition period offers a unique opportunity to refresh our approach to health and wellness, ensuring that we stay motivated, engaged, on track and most importantly happy!

Miss Motivator is Port Macquarie’s only Women's Fitness Studio. We help women of all ages and stages to feel strong, energised and happy.

COME ALONG AND TRY THE MISS MOTIVATOR METHOD - GRAB YOUR TRIAL PASS HERE

Or give us a call on 6581 5199 and we can help you work out what could be a good fit for you,

Stay strong, Rach

WHAT IS

DIGITAL DENTISTRY?

How can it change the way you experience dentistry?

Thanks to digital advancements, a visit to the dentist is becoming faster, safer, more reliable and comfortable than ever before. Recently patients have been asking, “what is digital dentistry?” We thought we would spend some time breaking it down.

What Is Digital Dentistry? Digital dentistry is a movement that includes the use of digital technology and computers to examine, diagnose, scan, print or mill, to treat your oral health.

Types of Digital Dentistry Technology, Digital dentistry is transforming just about every aspect of oral care, from the moment you check in, to assess your oral health, to the diagnosis, the treatment plan and treatment of any condition, and follow up appointments. Some digital dentistry tools that you may come across include:-

Intraoral Cameras. Small cameras are becoming as popular as the tiny round mirrors dental professionals have historically used. One of the biggest benefits of these cameras is magnification and the ability of a patient to see their own teeth and areas of concern. With magnification and a flat screen, you can see the issues and you can understand and improve your oral health and make educated decisions about your treatment options. In some cases, we can even simulate your treatment and outcomes.

Digital radiography and 3D x-ray. X-rays have been used in dental offices for a very long

time, but the traditional x-ray process required film processing, which took time, expense, and the prints needed to be filed and physically carried around. Digital radiography is faster, clearer and they are immediately available to see on a computer screen and these images can be shared easily with specialists. Recent studies show there is less exposure to radiation with digital radiology as opposed to film x-rays.   A 3D x-ray provides a much broader, clearer and more complete view of facial structures than a regular x-ray. These images allow your dentist to view your teeth, oral and nasal cavity, and jaw in 3D. The angles, zoom distance, and rotation of the image can be easily manipulated to focus on areas of concern. The more that your dentist can see, the better they will be able to diagnose and treat any dental issues. A treatment plan based on a 3D x-ray is fast becoming the golden standard for patient diagnosis. 3D x-rays can also be used to create surgical guides for advanced dental procedures. On top of being a fantastic diagnostic tool, a 3D dental x-ray is a non-invasive and painless procedure. A 3D x-ray does expose you to more radiation than a regular x-ray, however it is not an x-ray that needs to be taken very often and it lends benefits across time and dental health.

Intraoral scanning and CAD (Computeraided design)/CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) technology. In a time not so long ago, dental professionals would use a gooey substance (impression material) in your mouth to create a 3D impression or model of your teeth and mouth.This model would be

sent off to a lab where a dental technician created devices to repair, replace, or better align your teeth. Today the use of impression materials is behind us, instead we use intraoral cameras, scanners and CAD/CAM technology. The scanners make a 3D digital image of your mouth that can be used to design a prosthesis (crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, bridges, implant-supported restorations, or dentures), and the prosthesis is then either milled out of a solid block of porcelain, zirconium, metal or a combination, or a model may be printed out of acrylic material. All of which can be milled or printed in house, usually in a single visit, so say goodbye to gooey impressions and say hello to dental solutions in a single visit.

Digitally guided implant surgery. This relatively new innovation isn’t widely used yet. It helps dental professionals identify the most precise and effective placement of an implant in correlation to your natural teeth, jaw and soft tissue using an intraoral scan. A 3D x-ray and digital imaging can be used to create a guide that allows the placement of implants in minutes.

In Summary. Digital technology is accelerating rapidly, by harnessing this technology we can achieve more reliable and comfortable dental outcomes and that’s something everyone can smile about.

Call the caring team at Sundial Dental to find out more about digital dentistry and its applications for your dental health today 6583 3533 or 6585 2015.

Fly Fishers H A S T

David Spencer is the President of Hastings Fly Fishers Club; an inclusive group of people who share a passion for fly fishing, our beautiful waterways and our community. We had a chat to find out more about the club, their principles and what they get up to.

Hi David. Can you tell us about your involvement with the Hastings Fly Fishers Club and what your role is?

I have been a member of Hastings Fly Fishing Club for about 8 years now, and I am now in my fourth year as President.

Could you share a bit about the background of the club and how it got started?

The Club started in 2009, when a small group of locals discovered they shared a common interest in fly fishing, and thought it would be a great idea to form a club, in order to share their love of the sport, and hopefully also introduce others into giving it a try. So, from an initial group of six members, we are now in our fifteenth year, and have around 50+ members. Our Club Patron is Brian Henderson, who is an internationally accredited Master Casting Instructor.

What are some of the regular activities club members participate in? What does it

DAVID SPENCER

mean to be part of the club?

The club is involved in a range of activities. We have a monthly meeting (every 2nd Wednesday of the month), which is usually held at Port City Bowling Club, but due to renovations happening at that club, we have moved temporarily to the Snr. Citizens Centre in Munster Street.

We have a monthly (4th Sunday of the month) fishing outing which involves us visiting various locations in and around the Mid North Coast, and often further afield – such as Guyra, Nundle, the Snowy Mountains, and New Zealand. We fish in salt water and fresh water locations. People mainly associate fly fishing with trout, but many of the usual saltwater species such as bream, flathead, mullet, whiting and blackfish, etc, can also be caught on fly. Apart from trout, we also have outings fishing for bass and carp.

We have regular casting practice days at Lake Cathie, these are usually held on a fortnightly basis. Learning and developing the art of fly tying, is also something members of the club are involved in.

What does it mean to be part of the club?

People mainly associate fly fishing with trout, but many of the usual saltwater species such as bream, flathead, mullet, whiting and blackfish, etc, can also be caught on fly.

Well like all recreational clubs, it is always good to share one’s activities and knowledge with people who have similar interests, and certainly, our club is committed to sharing knowledge, improving fishing skills, and promoting the sport. But like all good clubs, it is not just about having a common interest, it’s also about socialising, camaraderie, having some fun, and doing so in a way that promotes respect for each other, and the environment. We are a catch and release fishing club, and as much as is possible, do our best to handle fish in a manner that enables their safe return to the water.

Could you tell us a bit about some of the members and who can participate?

We are a family orientated club, and have male and female members, and although many of our more active members are retired, they have more time to go fishing! We do have a number of younger members. Basically, we welcome anyone to the club who has an interest in fly fishing. The majority of our members are from around the Hastings region, but we also have some from the Manning/Great Lakes region. Our members come from a range of backgrounds, so usually, there is someone who has the skills that might be needed in meeting the needs of the club.

Over the years, we have as part of a program run by the Dept. of Primary Industries, released many fingerlings into local waterways.

The club has been involved in a number of different events, fundraisers and awareness efforts, can you tell us about them and anything you have coming up? While obviously the principal interest of the club is fly fishing, we are also engaged in a number of other activities. Over the years, we have as part of a program run by the Dept. of Primary Industries, released many fingerlings into local waterways. This has included several thousand flathead, and in various freshwater locations, in excess of 150,000 trout and bass. Apart from this, the club has been involved in waterway clean-ups, and a mangrove restoration program.

One of our more rewarding community based

activities, is, in association with The New England Trout Acclimatisation Society (NETAS), and other clubs in the Mid North Coast/New England region, we participate in a ‘Casting for Recovery Day’. This is held at the Dutton Trout Hatchery in Ebor. The mission of ‘Casting for Recovery’ is to enhance the quality of life of women who are recovering from breast cancer. This is done through experiencing the sport of fly fishing within a supportive and welcoming environment. Members of the various clubs donate their time to assist with casting instructions, and in providing food for the event. Feedback from the women who participate in this day is always very positive. We also try to have a presence in the local area, and on occasions have an information stall at the Laurieton River Walk Markets. On the 11th May we will be at the Lake Cathie Autumn Fair. So come along and say gidday.

What do you enjoy most about fly fishing and being a part of the Hastings Fly Fishers?

I have been fly fishing for about 12 years now, but much more frequently in the last 9 years or so. While all forms of fishing require a certain amount of luck, it’s also very much about skill and knowledge, and fly fishing has

so many interesting facets to it. Among many aspects, there is an understanding of the role of different rods, types of fly lines, fly selection (there are literally thousands), ‘reading’ a river, and then applying a range of different casting techniques to present a fly in such a way that a fish is prepared to take it. But one of the most important aspects for me is that you get to fish in so many different and lovely locations, and there are many in the beautiful Mid North Coast.

What would you say to anyone interested in learning more about fly fishing, and the club and how can they get involved?

Well, whether or not you are an experienced fly fisher, a beginner, or someone who has never picked up a fly rod, if you are interested in trying a different type of fishing experience, come along to one of our meetings and have a chat with us. You will find members who are willing to assist you in having a go at this great sport, and who knows, you might discover you develop a passion for something that wasn’t really on your radar before.

We have a website, hastingsflyfishers.org.au A facebook page; Hastings Fly Fishers Inc

Or, you can contact us via our Club Secretary, Ron, at hffsecretary@gmail.com

WELCOME TO EXCEPTIONAL OVER 50 s LIVING AT

Glenfern

Are you thinking it’s time to make the move to beautiful Port Macquarie? Perhaps you already know about the region but are looking to upsize your retirement? At Hometown Australia, we have a number of communities to choose from with a range of home styles and prices suited to over 50’s* living.

GGlenfern is Hometown Australia’s newest purpose-built community situated between the water and the bush in Thrumster, a 10-minute drive to the heart of Port Macquarie’s town centre. This brand-new community boasts a state-of-the-art clubhouse and sensational amenities including a 25m lap pool, bowling green, pickle ball court, gymnasium, and even a resident’s cinema.

We are excited to welcome you to view our new two storey display home featuring views over the expansive bushland, with generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, and a lift with direct access to the master bedroom complete with ensuite and private balcony. This home is an addition to our five single level homes in our display precinct. Relax and enjoy a morning at Glenfern! Visit the clubhouse for a refreshment, enjoy the live entertainment, and meet some of our current residents.

“Glenfern opened its doors and welcomed its first residents in July last year and the feedback

we have received since then has been fantastic! Recently we had the grand opening of the highly anticipated clubhouse which residents are loving. Residents can lead an active lifestyle by taking advantage of the great amenities such as the swimming pool, spa and gymnasium or as social as they like by joining the sundowner drinks at the clubhouse, relaxing in the cinema or enjoying a good book by the fire place,” said Sue Shepherdson, Sales Manager at Glenfern. Enjoy a day discovering the two storey home designs starting from $660,000 and single level home designs starting from $595,000.

Date: Saturday, 20 April 2024

Time: 10am until 1pm

Where: 19 Glenfern Ave, Thrumster Please contact Sue Shepherdson, Sales Manager to RSVP via GlenfernSales@ hometownaustralia.com.au or (02) 7255 2900

Discover a Relaxed Lifestyle at the Laurieton Open Day!

Just 20 minutes down the coast from Port Macquarie is Laurieton Residential Resort. W ith

the North Brother Mountain as its back drop and set alongside the picturesque Queens Lake the community is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Laurieton offers quality modern homes and superb amenities making it easy to live an active lifestyle in a relaxed setting.

Join us at the Laurieton Open Day for a glimpse inside what life could look like living within the community. Discover modern preloved homes for sale, take a stroll through the gardens, and check out the gym, indoor and outdoor heated pools, and bowling green.

Home designs at Laurieton include light and bright interiors, spacious kitchens featuring island benches and quality appliances, open plan living, outdoor decks, and low maintenance gardens. Downsize without compromising on space! Some designs include two bedrooms and an additional multi-purpose room, garage, and separate laundry room. Discover the range of affordable and modern homes for sale at the Laurieton open day! Why wait, call our friendly Sales Manager, David Kinealy to make an appointment to view all homes available for sale.

Date: Thursday 9 May 2024

Time: 10am until 1pm

Where: 11 Resort Road, Kew, NSW, 2443

Contact David Kinealy, Sales Manager

LaurietonSales@hometownaustralia.com.au or (02) 4086 6545

A New Lease on Life

Whether you’re downsizing, retiring, semi-retired or looking for a lifestyle change, Hometown Australia provides communities designed to elevate the over 50s living experience by offering vibrant, affordable and secure communities. Enjoy independent living, meet like-minded people, and stay physically and socially active.

Hometown Australia’s communities can also be referred to as land lease living communities. This means residents own the dwelling and have a long-term lease over the land on which it stands. Hometown Australia offers both resort and boutique style communities, providing true value for money, without the high entry and exit fees often associated with other retirement living options. With many benefits of land lease living, now is the time to explore your future at a Hometown Australia Community.

hometownaustralia.com.au

You’re invited to Glenfern Open Day

Two Storey Home

We’re thrilled to invite you to the launch of our brand new two-storey display home at Glenfern Over 50s Community.

Date: Saturday, 20th April 2024

Time: 10:00am to 1:00pm

Address: 19 Glenfern Ave, Thrumster NSW 2444

You’re invited to Laurieton Open Day

Date: Thursday, 9th May 2024

RSVP

Time: 10:00am to 1:00pm Address: 11 Resort Road, Kew NSW 2443 RSVP

FRUMAR Warren

Warren Frumar has always been a keen swimmer and has been a member of the Port Macquarie Hastings Masters Swimming Club since he moved here in 1999. The club competes regularly at events from Sydney to Port, so competitive swimmers are welcome along with those that just want to stay fit and be a part of a group of fun and friendly people!

Hi Warren. Can you tell us a bit about Port Macquarie Masters Swimming Club and how it got started?

Port Macquarie Masters Swimming had its genesis in the mid 1980’s with an informal group of swimming club and surf club parents who swam in events during Port Macquarie Swimming Club race nights. In the mid-90’s a Masters Club was formed by affiliating with Ettalong Masters before affiliating with AUSSI MASTERS (Australian Union of Senior Swimmers International, now known as Masters Swimming Australia) on 4th May 1996 under inaugural president, Reg McGlashan. In 1998 Port Macquarie hosted its first Masters Carnival with over 150 competitors, the largest Masters carnival ever held in country NSW.

How long have you been involved in the club and what made you join?

I’ve always been a “water baby”, having been

raised near the beaches in Sydney’s east. I was a founding member of the Bathurst Masters Swimming Club and when I moved to Port Macquarie in 1999, naturally gravitated towards the Port Macquarie Masters Swimming Club. In those days we met at Larry Brook’s 50m indoor pool on Lake Road before moving to Paul Todd’s pool opposite the Fernhill Tavern and finally to the Port Macquarie Memorial Pool in the mid 2000’s.

Can you share a bit about what members get up to and any regular meetups?

swim to maintain fitness to competition on a local, regional, right up to international level. The club meets at 8am every Saturday morning at the Port Macquarie Memorial Pool on Gordon Street.

Members can undertake a training program under the expert guidance of our fully qualified coach, Larry Brook who also provides advice on stroke correction.

The Port Macquarie Masters Swimming Club provides a range of “swimming” opportunities for its members, from a casual

Most Saturdays, members can undertake a training program under the expert guidance of our fully qualified coach, Larry Brook who also provides advice on stroke correction. Alternatively, members can do some casual swimming in Lane 6 (‘the coffee lane”).

Once a month, we have an aerobics day where members can do longer timed swims and compete for points for themselves and the club in the statewide Aerobics Trophy. This is followed by one of the clubs legendary

monthly barbecue breakfasts.

Who is the club open to and what sort of skill level do you need to have?

The club is open to anyone with an interest in swimming from 18years up. Swimmers of all abilities are welcome and while we don’t offer “learn to swim” for adults, there are plenty of opportunities to improve your style, speed and fitness. Anyone who is considering dipping their toes in the water with Port Macquarie Masters Swimming is more than welcome to come and try for a few weeks before joining us officially.

Anyone who is considering dipping their toes in the water with Port Macquarie Masters Swimming is more than welcome to come and try for a few weeks before joining us officially.

points in the Aerobics Trophy Competition for the last 10 years. For those who prefer the less competitive aspects of swimming, there is plenty of opportunity for training and socialising in a welcoming and supportive swimming environment.

Do members regularly compete in events? If so, have you competed in any events recently and how did the club go?

each year. It is one of the most popular carnivals on the circuit and attracts over 100 swimmers to the town each year.

What do you enjoy most about being a part of the swimming club?

While many in the club relish the opportunity to compete, as I did for many years, these days I love the opportunity to swim with a group of like-minded people who are encouraging, friendly and accepting of all who come along.

Could you tell us a bit about some of the members? Are most members competitive?

Port Macquarie Masters Swimming has members in their 20’s all the way up to long time member Janet who stills swims very competently in her 90’s. The amazing Margaret Jopling AO, who is also nudging 90 still travels regularly to competitions throughout the state and interstate. Margaret is just about unbeatable in her age group and holds a number of State and National records. The remarkable Wendy McMurtrie covers so much distance in the water it is scary. Wendy is a great competitor travelling to many carnivals and she has achieved maximum

For many members, competition at carnivals between Sydney and Port Macquarie (and occasionally beyond) is an important part of their involvement with the club. Swimmers accumulate points at carnivals and last year Port Macquarie was the leading club in Division B and the highest-ranking club in regional NSW.

In early February the club sent a strong contingent to the Myall Carnival at Tea Gardens and we finished, a great 2nd overall. We regularly send a big group of swimmers to the State Relays at the Sydney Olympic Swim Centre at Homebush and for a number of years Port Macquarie has been the leading country club.

As well as travelling to carnivals, the club has been hosting swimmers from around the state at Port Macquarie’s own carnival in November

The social aspects are also a drawcard with members enjoying morning tea and fellowship after our session each Saturday. I also like being part of a great community organisation. The club lends their support as volunteers to Ironman each year and funds from this help meet the cost of travel to competitions.

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

Anyone interested in giving Masters Swimming a try is welcome to join us at the Port Macquarie Memorial Pool in Gordon Street any Saturday morning (except during July) at 8am and you will be warmly welcomed. If you would like to find out more, you can also email us at mastersswimmingpmq@gmail.com or contact us via the Port Macquarie Masters Swimming Club Facebook page.

Port Macquarie Masters is all about Fun, Fitness and Friendship.

Our contemporary accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to include home comforts and all the bells and whistles you would expect from an innovative, modern design. The bright, private rooms all feature ensuite bathrooms, ample storage and space to welcome family and friends or savour a good book while overlooking our stunning gardens. Residents can relax in beautifully landscaped courtyards or spacious terraces, have a baristamade coffee in our ‘Jolly Nose’ cafe or enjoy a movie at the cinema. Our

Contact Kim Suitor 0458 164 029 or admissions@highfieldsmanor.com.au

The dedicated team at Highfields Manor offers responsive and flexible care to our residents based on their individual needs. With a focus on ‘reablement’, we provide care for people with high and low needs and take a person-centred approach, adapting our services to each of our residents alongside specialist rehabilitation and dementia support.

Respite care can give a carer a muchneeded break and can also give a potential resident the opportunity to trial our care. Our friendly, expert team are on hand to work with temporary residents, their carers and families to ensure our respite residents receive the most appropriate care and that their stay with us is a positive experience for everyone involved.

The death of a loved one is not an easy subject to deal with – here at Highfields Manor we provide end of life care and support residents and their families at this emotionally challenging and stressful time. The aim of our palliative care is to achieve the best possible quality of life for the person, their family and carers.

G.J. GARDNER HOMES

G.J. Gardner

QWhat should be at the top of your list when it comes to building a new home?

AMaking sure you’ve done your research when it comes to selecting the right building company. Building a new home can be one of the biggest decisions of your life and so make sure you choose a builder that

you can rely on to deliver your dream home with no delays! Reading through your quote and really understanding it is very important. Knowing exactly what is included in the price and what costs might arise during the colour selection, and construction phase of building your new home.

It is important to take the time in the early stages to ensure all your needs and desires are captured during the discovery phase. Making sure conversations are had, and the builder understands exactly what you are looking for,

so that everything is included in the quote and contract and making sure there are no cost surprises or blowouts during the construction phase.

Asking the questions around start dates and how long the construction of your home will take, having a clear understanding of time between signing your contract and handing over the keys to your new home.

What is it that makes GJ Gardner the expert in their field?

At GJ Gardner Homes Port Macquarie we

HOMES - PORT MACQUARIE

make sure we spend time getting to know our clients on a personal level, so we can better understand what our clients are looking for, and what matters most to them during the process of building their new home. It is important to us that each clients experience is individualised.

GJ Gardner Homes Port Macquarie offers accurate pricing with no hidden costs. Making sure we have a clear vision of what our clients want in their new home and ensuring this is captured early.

We always communicate with open and honest dialogue so that our clients have a clear understanding of the process throughout the entire build.

Drewe, the owner and builder, has over 35 years experience in the building industry and works very closely with the team and clients from start to finish.

Priding himself on delivering top quality, also having the experience to achieve this in the most effective way possible, ensuring all the builds are well planed and flow through each

stage, making sure no delays arise.

GJ Gardner Homes Port Macquarie have a high success rate at handing you the keys to your new home ahead of contractual completion times, with satisfied customers.

4 Bay Street, Port Macquarie

(02) 6533 1055

portmacquarie@gjgardner.com.au

JADE

QCLINIC MANAGER

What are the most popular treatments performed in clinic?

AFirstly, I think it’s important to establish what aesthetic treatments are! Aesthetic treatments are all about enhancing your natural beauty. They are evidence based procedures which aim to reduce the signs of ageing as well as rejuvenate skin. They are non-invasive and require minimal to no downtime. Some of our most popular aesthetic treatments at LUX range from our cosmetic injectables, that are performed by some of Sydney's most popular cosmetic doctors who have been treating for over 20 years, to our skin treatments that are more regenerative in nature like skin needling, women's intimate health treatments, v2 skin boosters, and laser hair reduction.

What do you see as trending topics in the beauty and health space currently?

I love this question! What is being foreseen, is a future where beauty treatments are less about immediate dramatic changes and more about gradual, sustainable rejuvenation.

It’s about a deeper connection with one's own body, using its innate capabilities to restore and renew. For example, our v2 skin booster treatment is performed using a machine that utilises a 9-needlepoint system. It uses a light suction to bring the skin to the needles, aiding in an even distribution of the booster. The booster itself has a high concentration of natural and free hyaluronic acid plus a combination of antioxidants, amino, acids, minerals, and vitamins, all of which are naturally present in our skin. This naturally occurring substance integrates into the papillary dermis, nourishing and treating the skin and allowing the fibroblasts to lay down new collagen and elastin. It helps to retain moisture and plays an important role in maintaining skin hydration and skin quality. There's also been a close focus on the holistic treatment of women's intimate health and skin health through pre-menopausal and menopausal stages of life. At LUX we are proud to offer the leading solution for optimal feminine intimate wellness at any age with our FemiLift device.

Q. What can clients expect to experience when they walk through the doors at LUX?

When you first step in the doors at LUX

you are met with an interior that creates the perfect ambience for relaxation and rejuvenation, filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon and smouldering woods. As you fill in your consultation form in reception, you sip on your choice of a complimentary flavoured natural marine collagen drink or water, with dark chocolate and mentos to finish. If it’s your first visit to us, your therapist will take you on a walk through of the clinic showing you each of our treatment suites, from our automated spray tan suite, through to our Doctor’s medical suite. Our team of professionals provide personalised attention in a serene and elegant environment. Our luxurious medical spa offers affordable treatments and services. The experience is luxury and affordability in perfect harmony.

(02) 6583 7047

11/6-14 Clarence St, Port Macquarie

luxlaserclinics.com.au

Lux Laser & Aesthetics is a cutting-edge, results driven clinic offering a selection of non-invasive treatments using the latest technologies and techniques.

LUX

PRIEST

QCan you explain the conveyancing process and what are the most common challenges or delays that arise?

AConveyancing is the process of changing the title to a property from one owner to another.

It sounds simple enough but there are many challenges in property transactions, and they vary immensely depending on whether we act for the purchaser or the vendor. Most people have to sell a property in order to purchase another one resulting in a simultaneous settlement – which is often part of a chain of other simultaneous settlements. So you can have multiple purchasers and vendors and banks all transacting at the same time. The PEXA electronic system has made this flow more efficiently, fortunately, but one hiccup in the chain can still cause time consuming chaos.

There are times when last minute negotiations unexpectedly occur a day or two prior to the settlement date or sometimes on the settlement date. Recently, with the assistance of the agent, we settled a property where some of the vendor’s possessions were still

at the property. Settlement occurred on time thanks to the negotiations between the conveyancers and the agent involved allowing the vendor to leave their possessions at the property.

Federal and State legislation is also constantly changing and we have to have a good understanding of all its nuances and how they apply (or not) to each individual client. For example, the ATO recently made changes to the Foreign Resident Capital Gains Withholding Clearance Certificate so that from 1 January 2025, there is no threshold of $750,000 before a clearance certificate must be provided.

What is the benefit of having conveyancers and lawyers under the one business banner?

Buying and selling property is often the biggest financial transaction a person will ever make during their lifetime.

No two conveyancing transactions are the same. Each one comes with its unique challenges. Whilst most transactions run smoothly from start to finish, there are also those that require further negotiation and amendments to the contract.

Having lawyers who have a high expertise in all areas of property law in the same office as conveyancers is an invaluable resource

when drafting more difficult contract clauses or dealing with an issue or dispute that may crop up unexpectedly in the middle of a transaction. Being able to run a tricky negotiation or difficult clause by an experienced lawyer straight away can often negate an issue before it becomes a major problem and indeed, prior to it causing unnecessary distress to our client. Further to this, if a legal issue arises during the conveyancing transaction that a conveyancer does not have the necessary legal qualifications to deal with, a lawyer will need to be instructed to deal with that issue. As a conveyancer in a law firm, I can pass the matter to a lawyer who is already familiar with the issue and the client will not have to instruct a lawyer outside the firm, saving our client precious time and money.

PRIEST

JOY BRINKOW

MELISSA KENNEDY

STEVE

QAs a business owner, how can I innovate and grow my business?

ATechnology is ever evolving, and innovation is imminent. With the

Port Macquarie Hastings area expanding, both industry and talent are keen to settle within our region. It’s an exciting time for businesses to evolve by adapting and finding new ways to streamline business processes, improve the quality of service to customers and ensure you have the right key technical staff in place to meet your industry standard or market needs.

As an industry expert with over 24 years’ experience in different technical disciplines I’m keen to connect with key business stakeholders and have a conversation about how technology can improve and future proof your business. Often with some small adjustments and finding quick wins will generate more opportunities to innovate and find ways how technology can help to grow your business. If it’s a shortterm project or long-term commitment, I can find the right quality tech and digital talent to improve key business deliverables, increase volumes or shorten time to market.

MBC is expanding our recruitment offering to now include technology and digital services for rural, regional, and metro areas. MBC has previously successfully filled ICT roles for some time in both private and government (local and

state) markets.

Whether you are an industry looking to hire talent, or you are a job seeker looking for your next opportunity, get in contact and we can support you across multiple technical domains and disciplines, including (but not limited to): software/app development, cyber security, cloud computing, networking, infrastructure, graphic design, UX/UI, helpdesk support, system administration, business analysis, and project management.

Q: Why is it so important to make sure you have a qualified and knowledgeable recruitment team working with your business?

MBC is keen to develop and build longlasting partnerships, therefore it’s important to understand your business, culture and new staff requirements. This information is key to creating accurate job descriptions and advertisements to find the right and most qualified candidates.

The MBC Tech & Digital division has an experienced team who can provide efficient, timely and quality services which include technical recruitment and partnerships, talent upskill (for specific skills or industry alignment), skills testing for qualified and suitable applicants.

This will give businesses (all industries, shapes, and sizes) the opportunity to connect with MBC Tech & Digital (as an established recruitment provider) for technical conversations and resourcing requirements to

transform, transition and grow your business.

Q: How do you measure the success of new hires and the impact they have on MBC?

Our MBC roots started in Port Macquarie and we especially understand the rural and regional staff requirements. MBC takes pride in taking care of your resource requirements the best way possible. Success is often measured by our established and ongoing partnerships sourcing the right talent. Businesses who initially had a requirement for new temporary, casual or short-term hires are asking MBC to transition candidates to later become permanent staff based on skills, experience and cultural fit. Another measure of success is where MBC supported a temporary placement which has been extended way beyond the initial contract period for a specific candidate. These scenarios are proud moments, an excellent achievement and a great measure of success for your company, staff and MBC.

HEAD OF MBC TECH &

QHow does Tender Funerals differ from other funeral homes?

AThe Mid North Coast community started this venture, so Tender Funerals Mid North Coast is owned, operated and driven by community for community. That sets us apart. It means our values are community-oriented. Families who come to us comment on our kindness, our ‘tender’ness and the quality of the care we give to them and their deceased person.

Focused on affordability and accessibility for everyone, our mantra is “no-one should have to go into large debt to pay for a funeral”. Affordability and accessibility are achieved through lower overheads. We have a team of trained volunteers who work with our handful of staff, and by being truly not-for-profit. Being a Registered Charity helps us access funding sources (instead of retained profit) to help cover operating costs. We also invite our community to donate for the same reason. Additionally, our Benevolent Fund assists families experiencing financial hardship. Volunteers support the paid staff team with all kinds of skills from gardening, maintenance

and administration to bringing people into our care, mortuary care and attending funerals. This means death-care skills are transferred to the community and prepares people to know what to do when someone within their immediate family/community dies.

Additionally, Tender volunteers are out there in the community being a resource for others, assisting people in their family/friend/colleague groups to understand what is possible, which is another important mechanism in changing the culture around death.

We wholeheartedly understand families want to choose and decide what their funeral will be – we provide the full menu of options and prices rather than different packages with opaque total prices. We offer unique opportunities for families to participate at every point, be it washing and dressing their person, coffin making or decorating, and holding the service at a venue of their choice. A funeral can be anything a family wants.

Equally, our focus on family participation brings death back into the hands of the community. These are time-honoured skills we used to have as a community, skills we have slowly lost as the funeral industry developed over time and we began to hand over what was once an honouring rite of passage.

Being able to choose how you’d like to contribute to the care of your person,

whether that is a cremation without a funeral, decorating their coffin, crafting a funeral that your person would have absolutely loved, caring for your deceased person at home, or choosing a funeral with ‘the works’; there are lots of ways to make the funeral process meaningful for families and friends. We support families to find what’s right for them. These outcomes are very healing for families, supporting a more meaningful and kinder endof-life experience for everyone involved.

Finally, through our Community Education Program, we hold free education and information sessions so that people can make informed choices and feel equipped to have open conversations about end-of-life matters. Doing this means we meet one of our key objectives: ‘Changing the pervading culture that insists that death is a taboo subject of conversation.`

SAM CLOWES RYAN DE GOOYER

TENDER FUNERALS

MID NORTH COAST

AGED CARE

QWhat types of home care services do you offer, and are they customisable to meet individual needs?

AAll the services provided through Salvos Home Care are tailored to the needs of the individual client and aimed at keeping people living in their own homes for long as possible. The most common services are domestic assistance, such as cleaning and washing, personal care, like assisting with showers and medications, and assistance with shopping and transport to appointments and social activities. Social activities can vary widely, from leisurely strolls along the beach to engaging with local fitness and social circles, and even enjoying a visit to the Koala Hospital, all tailored to match the unique preferences of our clients.

Salvos Home Care can also arrange light gardening, home modifications, meals, and allied health therapies, all dependent on the needs of the client. If you are a recipient of the Government subsidised Home Care Package, the program guidelines will provide additional information around what can and cannot be funded through this program. In addition to services to assist you in your home,

Home Care Packages funds can generally be used to cover the costs of minor home modifications, or equipment to assist you with mobility and personal alarms to monitor your safety. Whether our clients are on a government subsidised program or self-funded, our aim is to be as flexible and adaptable as possible and to provide a great service.

What is your process for developing and updating care plans for each client?

When we meet with clients for the first time, we like to spend a few hours getting to know them and understanding their individual needs. It is essential to us that we celebrate and support clients in their own way and provide them with choice. Once we understand the client’s needs and preferences, we will plan a recurring and customisable schedule of services to be delivered by our wonderful team of care workers. Each care plan has the primary aim of supporting client independence, and assisting the client to live the life they want to live. As the needs of the client change, we adapt the care plan to ensure it remains relevant. For instance, the client might need additional assistance after an illness or an admission to hospital or may find certain tasks are becoming more difficult to complete. We make sure the care plan is updated to reflect these changes.

Can family members or designated

representatives be involved in the care planning and decision-making process?

We will always ask the client if there is someone they would like included in the care planning and decision-making process, and what sort of information they are happy for us to share with them – respecting privacy and confidentiality is essential for Salvos Home Care. Family members and informal supports are sometimes important when planning and delivering care and supporting our clients and, where requested, we will always work in partnership with them. It is also important to note that most of our clients find they can directly collaborate with us to organise their care, and we provide unwavering support throughout this process if they do not have any family or friends to assist them.

Salvos Home Care – Port Macquarie

1300 111 227

agedcare.enquiries@salvationarmy.org.au

SALVOS HOME CARE PORT MACQUARIE

John van der Ley

QAs a horticulturist with 50 years of experience, can you share some of the many beneficial uses of trees?

AOne of the major benefits that is often overlooked in both domestic and public spaces is the vital provision of seasonal shade. Unfortunately, I often see a lack of consideration in both house orientation and garden planning for the use of deciduous trees. I cannot stress enough the benefits of planned distribution of residential trees for a reduction in cooling and heating energy use to cut urban carbon emissions (and the associated costs) and provide a more comfortable living environment. One of the critical aspects in this planning to consider is moderating heat influx in summer and allowing maximisation of the warming rays of the sun in cooler months. In this situation, aesthetic qualities include connecting the home/building to the garden. Colour and shape add beauty throughout the year. Careful selection of tree species is critical to sit comfortably in the local environment. Our

HORTICULTURE

expert team at Abundance Nursery can advise on the best tree for your situation.

How can we best care for our plants and trees to ensure they have a long life and grow to their full capacity?

Starting from the ground up is the best way to begin. Soil type, structure and drainage can be modified to ensure best results for the type of tree you select.

Modification of soil involves adjustment in some of the following areas. pH (soil acidity or alkalinity) organic matter affecting soil structure, water retention and availability of nutrients. Addition of suitable, quality fertiliser and mulching are the final physical steps. Water management and irrigation is another important factor for ongoing establishment.

Choosing a well grown plant suitable for the location and function is the next step. It can often be difficult to find localised information online. Here, expert advice and experience is essential. At Abundance, we grow many of the trees we retail. Informed selection leads to better results.

What are some tree varieties suitable for planting at this time of year as we head into the cooler months ahead?

Autumn is generally seen to be a good planting time, where milder conditions assist with establishment. Some of my favourite deciduous trees include: Nyssa sylvatica (Tupelo), Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree), Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle), Acers, both grafted and non-grafted, Brachychiton (Flame bottle tree), Persimmon, Magnolia soulangiana, Betula nigra (Tropical Birch) and for larger gardens: Liquidamber and Pecan. This is a brief list of suitable deciduous trees for our climate. Evergreen, native and fruiting trees all have an important place in our gardens and public spaces.

Thanks John.

JOHN VAN DER LEY BSc Dip Ed Cert Hort john@abundance.net.au

Abundance Nursery Business Hours

Wed to Fri 8.30 am to 2.30pm Sat and Sun 8am to 2.30pm

274 Rawdon Island Road Sancrox 2446

QANNA & BEN ROLLANS

As industry experts in the science of sleep and members of NSW CPAP, what exactly is sleep apnea and who can be affected by the condition?

A: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent form of sleep apnea, characterized by interruptions in breathing lasting more than 10 seconds during sleep, occurring at least 5 times per hour. This interruption is primarily caused by the relaxation of soft tissues in the upper airway, leading to its obstruction and cessation of airflow. The severity of OSA can vary, ranging from mild (5-15 times per hour) to moderate and severe (30+ times per hour).

Some symptoms such as pauses in breathing during sleep may be noticeable to others, alongside symptoms like snoring (throat vibration), tossing and turning, and waking up abruptly gasping or choking. These signs often accompany feelings of tiredness and lack of refreshment after sleep.

OSA can affect individuals across all age groups, from newborn infants to the elderly. However, it is most commonly observed in middle-aged adults, with men being more susceptible than women to this condition. This prevalence underscores the importance of awareness and timely intervention to mitigate

SLEEP APNEA SPECIALISTS

NAMES?

the impact of OSA on individuals’ overall health and well-being.

Q: How can NSW CPAP, now opened in Port Macquarie, assist patients with their treatments, aids and devices and provide superior after service care and support?

A: We are excited to be here in Port Macquarie. At NSW CPAP, we are a team of professionals who are dedicated to meeting the unique needs of your patients. We strive to bridge the gap between doctor diagnosis and evidence-based medicine by offering knowledgeable and friendly staff, as well as competitive pricing. Our commitment to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality products sets us apart from all other CPAP suppliers. We are thrilled to introduce our Home Sleep Test, a gamechanger in sleep diagnostics. This userfriendly kit, priced at just $149, includes a Sleep Report reviewed by an Australian Sleep Physician. With only a smartphone and our kit, patients can test comfortably at home; no wires or complex setups, just a press of a button to start recording.

Q: What health conditions have recent research findings identified as contributing factors to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

A: Recent research has illuminated various health conditions contributing to obstructive

sleep apnea (OSA). These include obesity, anatomical abnormalities like enlarged tonsils or a narrow throat, and medical issues such as hypertension and diabetes. Lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also heighten OSA risk. Recognizing these underlying conditions is vital for effective OSA diagnosis and management, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches.

Untreated OSA poses significant health risks, extending beyond fatigue. Moderate to severe OSA increases the likelihood of high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, cognitive impairments, headaches, mood disorders, and changes in personality. Untreated OSA may also lead to decreased libido, male impotence, and a heightened risk of motor vehicle and workplace accidents. Thus, addressing OSA through appropriate medical intervention is paramount for mitigating its adverse health effects.

WOMEN'S WELLNESS BOUTIQUE

GRAYCE

WOMENS PHYSIO

QWhat specialised services do you offer as a Women's Health clinic?

As a Women’s Health and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist, I provide a range of specialised services tailored to address the unique needs of women at different stages of life. These services include:

1. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: I offer assessment and treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction, including pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapses, and sexual dysfunction. Treatment may involve pelvic floor muscle training, biofeedback, manual therapy, and education on proper pelvic floor function.

2. Pre and Postnatal Care: I provide comprehensive care for women during pregnancy and after childbirth. This includes prenatal education on pelvic floor health, exercise guidance, and support for common pregnancy-related issues such as back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and diastasis recti. Postnatally, I assist women in restoring pelvic floor function, addressing any lingering issues from childbirth, and guiding them through a safe return to exercise and daily activities.

3. Pelvic Pain Management: I provide specialised care for women experiencing pelvic pain conditions such as endometriosis, vulvodynia, and interstitial cystitis. Treatment focuses on pelvic floor relaxation

WOMEN'S HEALTH

techniques, desensitisation strategies, and coordination with other healthcare providers for a multidisciplinary approach to pain management.

4. Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: I assess and treat bladder and bowel disorders such as urinary urgency, frequency, and constipation. Treatment may involve bladder and bowel retraining, pelvic floor muscle training, dietary modifications, and behavioural strategies to improve continence and bowel function.

5. Pre and Post-surgical Rehabilitation: For women undergoing gynaecological surgeries such as hysterectomy, pelvic organ prolapse repair, or caesarean section, I offer preoperative education and post-operative rehabilitation to optimise recovery, minimise complications, and promote a return to normal function.

As a Women’s Health and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist, Physio CollectiveMNC plays a crucial role in our community for several reasons:

health challenges related to pelvic floor

1. Addressing Specific Women’s Health Needs: Women often face unique health challenges related to pelvic floor dysfunction, pregnancy, childbirth, and menstrual health. My specialised services cater to these needs, providing tailored care and support that may not be readily available through general healthcare providers.

2. Improving Quality of Life: Many women suffer silently from pelvic floor issues, sexual

health concerns, and menstrual disorders that can significantly impact their quality of life. By offering effective treatments and support, my business helps women regain control over their health and well-being, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives free from discomfort and limitations.

3. Empowering Women: Education and empowerment are central to my approach. I empower women by educating them about their bodies, pelvic health, and treatment options, enabling them to make informed decisions and take an active role in their healthcare journey.

4. Collaborating with Healthcare Providers: I collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, including gynaecologists, obstetricians,

Many urologists, and mental health specialists, to provide comprehensive care for women. Physiotherapy but also Psychology Services specialised to women.

LAURIETON EEC

Laurieton EEC

Laurieton EEC is a privately owned Early Education and Care Centre caring for 36 children from 0-6 years of age. The Centre provides a warm and nurturing environment for children and their families.

We value early childhood education as the foundation for lifelong learning. We provide environments that are enriched, engaging, safe yet encouraging

to take risks, purposeful, educational, inclusive and fun for all our children and families. We strive to provide holistic support of the child’s exclusive requirements and interests to promote growth across all developmental domains. Each child is respected as a unique competent and capable individual with their own needs, experiences, abilities, and interests.

BUSINESS VOICE

with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

The entries are in for the 2024 Coastline Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards and now the judging and voting starts! For all entrants we have a fun complimentary night courtesy of Majestic Cinemas on the 10th April so keep an eye on your emails for tickets. Tickets for the Gala Dinner go on sale 19th April so get in early to book a table for you and your team for the biggest event on the Mid North Coast. A night of glamour, fun and bling recognising all of our stars in the Greater Port Macquarie area, that is YOU, our businesses, so join us as we celebrate business. We look forward to seeing you there. Tickets will be available through www. businessportmacquarie.com.au

On April 23rd we will be hosting a very important event “Mind Your Mates”. This is an event focusing on supporting mental health issues in the workplace as well as with family and friends. Do you know how to relate? Some great tips from Ben Cudmore from Self Seen and Di Bannister from Lifeline. We will also have local celebrity Alex Strachan sharing his story. We all need a little support at times and this event is not to be missed. I also want to give a big shout out to some local businesses that have been doing great things for others in the community recently. To Southern Cross Austero (Triple M & Hit FM Mid North Coast) Luke & Alex supported by Port City Bowling Club staff, especially Katie, for

their great result with donating their locks for Shave for a Cure at Port City Bowling Club on the 9th March. This was followed up by Stacey Morgan from Port Macquarie Performing Arts, Morgan Media & Simply Stacey Coaching also donating her locks at Settlers on the 17th March. What a great contribution to finding a cure for blood cancer.

April/May is the time of year that we start putting plans together for the next financial year so here are a few tips to help you start thinking and planning. Every business is unique, but here are a few tips that may help especially when running a small business (important to tailor these tips to suit your specific industry and circumstances). If you have any specific questions or need further advice, we can help put you in touch with business advisors or mentors and we are always here to help.

1. Understand the Legal Requirements: Make sure you are familiar with the legal requirements for running a business in NSW. Including registering your business, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, and complying with tax laws and regulations.

2. Develop a Solid Business Plan: A wellthought-out business plan is essential for success. Outline your business goals, target market, competition, marketing strategies, and financial projections. Having a clear plan will help you stay focused and make informed decisions.

3. Build a Strong Network: Networking is

crucial for business success. Attend industry events, join business associations like Business Port Macquarie, and connect with other business owners to build relationships, support and opportunities for collaboration.

4. Focus on Customer Service: This is one of the most important yet often overlooked points. Providing excellent customer service is key to building loyal and repeat customers that refer others to you. Make sure you listen to your customers, address their needs, and go the extra mile to exceed their expectations.

5. Stay Updated on Market Trends: Keep yourself informed about market trends, industry developments, and changes in consumer behaviour. This helps you adapt your business strategies and stay ahead of the competition.

6. Manage Your Finances Wisely: Proper financial management is essential for the long term success of your business. Keep track of your expenses, maintain a healthy cash flow, and seek professional advice when needed. Strike up a good relationship with your accountant. He is your partner in business .

7. Embrace Innovation: Innovation is key to staying competitive in the business landscape. Look for ways to improve your products or services, adopt new technologies, and stay open to new ideas.

Have a great month and I look forward to seeing you at the Gala Dinner in May.

Alex

PURPOSE & POSSIBILITY

CELEBRATING OVER 12 YEARS OF LUMINOSITY! CAN YOU HELP 10 YOUNG PEOPLE TO ATTEND?

BANK OF MUM & DAD

HELPING YOUR CHILDREN GET INTO THE PROPERTY MARKET

It is no secret that with rising interest rates and record high property prices first home buyers have had their fair share of barriers to get into the property market. As a mother of young children, I can’t help but wonder what it’s going to be like in 10-15 years time when my girls are ready to get into the market.

If I’m having these thoughts, I am sure I am not alone which is what’s brought me to this month’s topic; helping your children get into the property market. So as a parent, you may be wondering about what sort of things you could do now to ensure your children can purchase in the future. This piece is not intended to provide advice but to give you ideas on ways you can help your children. It is up to you to seek independent advice based on your circumstances to find the right solution for your family.

So, you have little kids? Its never too early to start...

Set up a savings account now and educate them early.

Setting up a joint savings account or an in-trust account for your child is a simple and great way to teach them positive money habits. Rather than spending their pocket money encourage them to save a portion. Rather than buying toys for Christmas and birthdays encourage a deposit into their

savings account. By no means does this mean that they cannot spend any of their pocket or birthday money, but in educating them early to save and understand the value of money, this will help them in the long run.

If your children are already at the age of 18 don’t worry, it’s not too late - you can still help them get into the market…

Allow them to board at home.

By allowing your children to live at home with you from the age of 18 until 25 and charging them $100 per week in rent you could help them purchase their first home. When they turn 25, give them the cash back which equates to just over $36,000. Assuming they will still only need a 5% deposit, this would support a $620,000 property purchase plus a $5,000 buffer for costs.

Offering a security guarantee.

A security guarantor is someone that offers security for a loan by way of equity or cash (term deposit). Offering equity or cash to secure a loan for your child eliminates the requirement of a cash contribution from them or the need to show genuine savings. This means that your child could purchase a home with minimal to no deposit. There are several risks associated with this option so if providing a security guarantee is something you are considering you will need to seek independent

FARNSWORTH FINANCIAL MONEY

with BEC FARNSWORTH

legal advice to decide if this option is right for you.

Gift them the money

If your child is wanting to purchase a home for $650,000 and will be utilising the First Home Guarantee scheme they would require $32,500 as a deposit. I also like to ensure my clients have an additional buffer of at least $5,000 to cover miscellaneous costs. (e.g. conveyancing, building and pest, bank establishment and government registration fees etc.) By gifting your child $37,500 they could get into the property market sooner.

Loan them the money

Rather than gifting the money to your children, you could loan them the money. This option would involve getting a formal loan agreement drawn up with terms and conditions. It is important to keep in mind that any loan arrangement would be required to be included as a liability and could affect their borrowing capacity.

Whatever the option you are interested in; it is important to understand the risks associated with your chosen path as well as any tax implications so getting advice from a lawyer and/or accountant is a must.

If you, or someone you know needs a helping hand to get into the property market then reach out today!

Lord Howe Island

Package holidays available direct from Port Macquarie

Oxley Travel specialises exclusively in curating unforgettable experiences on Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island. It is our privilege to ensure that your holiday is both enriching and relaxing. Whether you are seeking a brief escape, a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a unique getaway with a special interest group, reach out to our knowledgeable reservations team for expert advice.

habibiz

Our traditional Middle Eastern BBQ style means you don’t have to travel far to experience the beauty of our delicious cuisine and rich culture. If you’re wanting to experience something unique, then look no further.

Our whole lives, we have been either behind the BBQ or eating off the grill during family gatherings. It’s a way of life – there’s no doubt food brings everyone together. This is exactly why we do what we do. There’s nothing more rewarding then sharing our family recipes with you and watching people thoroughly enjoy the food they are being served.

Not only do we provide proficient service, but also different styles of catering for absolutely any occasion.

Norfolk Island

We cater for all events, weddings,

We asked sta members of Forestry Corporation of NSW to share their favourite NSW State Forests places to visit. Why? Because who knows be er than those who look a er the forest and maintain these special places.

Ste Fore SECRETS

“Gumgali Track in Orara East State Forest doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves and the view is delightful! But my absolute favourite spot is Mobong Falls Track in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. It’s a great bushwalk beside Mobong Creek, with a beautiful little waterfall and abundant birdlife. You can also enjoy a picnic (there are a couple of tables) or a cheeky little swim.”

- Renee, Forestry Worker

“Coopernook State Forest is one of those places that slowly grows on you with repeated visits. There is so much history there, and I understand why people refer to it as such a peaceful spot. It really is!”

- Leah, Partnerships Leader

“Tirrill Creek in Bulga State Forest. Subtropical rainforest can be found in spots along the creek line, as well as scenic rockpools for splashing your feet in. Pretty special.”

- Mark, Ecologist

“Once a year, we travel with a few other families and stay at Moonan Cottage in the small town of Moonan Brook at the western base of the Barrington Tops. We take day trips to ‘the Tops’ and our must stop places always include Moonan Outlook, with views for days to the south and west and brilliant sunsets. It’s just magic”

- Louise, Manager Tourism & Partnerships

“My favourite site is around Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest near Coffs Harbour. It’s not too remote, easy to get to and there’s some great lookouts and walks in unique areas.”

- Owen, Forestry Worker

“I love a bit of fishing, so Koondrook and Perricoota State Forests adjacent to the Murray River down on the Victorian border are always on my list. Great spots for fishing for native fish (Murray Cod and Yellow belly) as well as boating and kayaking. Bermagui State Forest on the NSW South Coast is also excellent for fishing and camping, while Currowan State Forest near Batemans Bay has good bass fishing and canoeing.”

- Rob, Partnerships Leader

“Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest between Wauchope and Port Macquarie. It’s so close to the Pacific Highway but still home to a beautiful native forest. It’s also home to WildNets, The Big Koala (part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail) and the soon-to-be-open Wild Koala Breeding Facility managed by Port Macquarie Koala Hospital/Koala Conservation Australia. With picnic facilities and walking trails in development, and Bunyah Café coming soon too (thanks to Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council), this tourism precinct is a must-stop for any visitors to the Mid North Coast.”

- Kathy, Senior Manager Country & Community

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Kelly Lamb has come full circle in her journey traversing the corporate world and returning to a place of heart, strength and hope, providing a voice and safe place for those in our community who need it most. From small conversations with huge impact, to holding a ballroom full of 800 by a thread - people are listening to the important message Kelly is sharing to improve the future for women and children in our region.

Kelly, you first made your mark in our community as a high flying leader in the corporate world of banking where you achieved much for your team and your clients. What inspired you to take the giant leap from this industry into a community impact organisation like Liberty Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Services?

From around the age of fifteen, I had wanted to work in community services and planned to study social work at university. Circumstances shifted during my gap year and I was steered in a different direction. I enjoyed a successful corporate career, but eventually found it no longer resonated. Now, it feels like coming full circle – I’m exactly where I should be, equipped with skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm to engage passionately with my work and make a meaningful impact. Leading a specialist domestic violence service that upholds the safety and dignity of local women and children is absolutely aligned with my purpose.

My beautiful granddaughters Chloe and Ellie are my inspiration. I want to create a world for them

where my work is obsolete.

When you sat in the CEO chair at Liberty on your very first day - what was your hope and dream for its future? How did you feel your skill set could make a difference?

It is a privilege to sit in that chair, and I’m grateful to the trailblazing group of women who grew our organisation from the grassroots. I also acknowledge the 50 year history of the women’s refuge movement across NSW. My hope is that my work honours their legacy and their resilience, determination and sacrifices made in laying the foundation.

My hopes and dreams mirror Liberty’s vision - a community where women and children are empowered and safe from domestic and family violence. To achieve this, it’s important that our team is connected to our shared purpose – to lead the community in a whole of family approach to recognise, respond to, and prevent domestic and family violence.

With vision and hope also comes trepidation, what was your biggest fear as you entered this new role and world? Was there ever a moment you doubted this new direction and how did you overcome it?

While I had been on the Board of Liberty for 4 years, stepping into the role of CEO did feel daunting at times in the early days. I had to find a way to honour my values of competency and efficiency within the different structures and pressures of the not-for-profit world. I realised I needed to sit in the discomfort and pause to align my heart and mind to the organisation’s rhythm.

I think a certain amount of doubt and fear is necessary if you aspire to growth and innovation. It is the voices of women and their stories that build my courage as we step into the unknown – like when we launched our workplace training program, or became the first pet-friendly women’s refuge in regional NSW.

You clearly have the ability to give a voice to those who don't have one, connect and empower others to deliver the very best to make a difference in women and families lives. What do YOU feel is your most powerful attribute in making a difference? Inspiring others, igniting their passion, and bringing people together with a deep connection to purpose is key to leadership. I’ve watched the leadership team at Liberty thrive through

trust and delegation, with the right amount of support and guidance, within a culture of autonomy and accountability.

Everything we do at Liberty is about empowerment. Our leaders empower team members to feel capable and creative in delivering outcomes for women and children. Our community is empowered to contribute to our cause through our partnerships, and the women we walk beside are empowered to achieve their full potential.

You have curated a highly skilled and dedicated team to deliver on the Liberty vision and mission, how important is this team to the success of the service?

The importance of the Liberty team in the achievement towards the vision cannot be overstated. Our team are the backbone of the organisation, bringing diverse perspectives and a collaborative spirit.

The frontline team are specialists in this complex, dynamic and nuanced work. They are dedicated to continuous learning – through best practice training and deeply listening to those with lived experience. I am grateful for the governance and guidance of our highly skilled volunteer Board of Management, and the Recovery and Healing Subcommittee. It takes a village, and I consider all those individuals, groups and businesses who support our work to be part of our team.

First Nations impact and advocacy run strongly through the narrative of Liberty. How important has it been to connect and elevate this community?

I consider this to be among my greatest

achievements during my time at Liberty and I acknowledge all those who have supported me. This includes our First Nations Cultural Advisor Elder Aunty Rhonda Radley, our Aboriginal Reference Group and Aboriginal members of our Board over the years.

Responding to and preventing DFV requires a culturally sensitive approach that recognises the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We see first-hand how the history of colonisation, dispossession and intergenerational trauma can contribute to the complex dynamics surrounding domestic and family violence.

Personally, my own story of cultural suppression ignites and drives me towards reconciliation. With my Dad's permission, I have opened the pages of our story and claimed my identity as a proud Gomeroi Woman from the Gamilaraay Nation. As I experience the pain of my family’s own healing journey, I am determined to assert Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s rights of self-determination, and the preservation of cultural practices, languages and traditions.

How instrumental have sages and critics been in your evolution as a leader? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

I will always remember the words of my longest and dearest mentor when I had moved my family across the country to take on an executive leadership position spanning the southern part of WA - “If it’s both terrifying and amazing, then you should definitely pursue it” - Erada.

I overcame my fear and gained the highest accolade in the corporation.

During my time with Liberty I have sought out mentors who have supported me to build resilience as we face the insidious truth of abuse and violence against women and children. I’m proud to be an executive director at DVNSW working alongside exceptional women with generous hearts and years of wisdom. I equally welcome the honest and constructive critics who push me outside my comfort zone and help me identify my blind spots.

Last year Liberty was rightfully awarded Business of the Year at the State ceremony in Sydney. I was in awe of your ability to bring a crowd of over 800 people to silence mid-celebration to hear the incredible passion and purpose in your journey. The audience were hanging to each word as you shared the obstacles you and your clients have overcome and the outcomes you and the team have delivered in spades. What was that moment like for you and what was the message you wanted imprinted on the hearts and minds of the community, industry and government leaders?

That moment was unforgettable – an opportunity to bring domestic and family violence out of the shadows and into the spotlight, speak up for victim-survivors, spark important conversations, and inspire collective action. It was a moment of profound validation and recognition of the work of our team and affirming for me as someone who took a courageous step all those years ago to follow my passion.

If you are experiencing violence or abuse, please call Liberty on 6583 2155 or 1800 RESPECT.

Iwith EMILIE COOPER

FROM PRIEST LEGAL

work all night, I work all day, to pay the bills I have to pay, aint it sad?” (Abba, 1976). Studies support what most of us already know – “money isn’t everything, but it helps.”

According to a study by Morris and Glazier of Sydney University, published in 2021, the “change point” at which happiness no longer depends on income is about $74,000 per year. In 2021, 74% of Australians were on an income below this change point - an increase from 60% below the change point of $43,000 in 2009. It is likely that the current change point in 2024 is even higher, making the words of Abba’s song “Money, Money, Money” even more relevant.

An inheritance can make all the difference between Abba’s sadness and achieving the happiness change point. According to Challenger (financial services), “inheritances are generally received by people between the ages of 55 and 70 years” i.e towards the end of their working lives. Hopefully, this makes for a happier retirement.

Sound estate planning, including making or updating a will, can help you and those you want to benefit from your wealth, achieve those happiness change points successfully. What is estate planning? It is working out what you own, what you owe and who it

MONEY MONEY MONEY

should go to - either during your lifetime or after you die. Putting the right documents and structures in place can ensure that the distribution of your wealth occurs the way you would like it to and that the ATO doesn’t benefit from your estate any more than necessary.

From a legal perspective, the first step is to have an indepth discussion with your lawyer about your assets, your liabilities, your family, who you would like to benefit and what you might be concerned about. Ideally, you would bring along to any meeting a list of your assets and liabilities and details about the people and organisations you would like to benefit.

If you want to control who your superannuation is paid to, you need to ensure that you have completed a “Binding Death Benefit Nomination” and lodged it with your super fund.

Appointing someone as your attorney is another important aspect of estate planning during your lifetime. An enduring power of attorney can make financial decisions on your behalf if you no longer understand the intricacies of financial management. An attorney must always act in your best interests unless the document appointing the attorney makes alternative provisions.

Succession planning, if you own a business or farm, and “inter vivos” gifts are also key tools to successful estate planning and may help those you want to benefit from your wealth achieve that “happiness change point” earlier.

Superannuation and life insurance are an important part of estate planning, but they are not controlled directly by your will. If you want to control who your superannuation is paid to, you need to ensure that you have completed a “Binding Death Benefit Nomination” and lodged it with your super fund.

Finally, your life changes and the lives of those around you change, so it is important to review your documents and the structures that you have in place regularly.

Priest Legal has over 50 years’ experience in estate planning. Check out our website www. priestlegal.com.au or phone us on 6583 1777 to make an appointment.

LEGAL focus contributor.

Mc DONALD JONES HOMES

What inspired your new home journey and can you recall what prompted you to take the first step?

“We had previously renovated a home, then sold it. When we moved to Port Macquarie, I was pregnant with twins, and I said to my husband, we are not renovating again. I wanted something brand new, something that was ours and designed to suit our lifestyle, and where everything worked! It was the first time we had thought about building new, but we wanted something that was made just for our family and decided to go for it.”

How did you decide where to build your home. Where are you located?

“When we moved to Port, we lived there for about 12 months while looking for the perfect spot to build. The Sovereign Hills area was really family orientated, lots of young families

Tom & Pip McCarney

and good-sized blocks all reasonably priced and we had heard a lot of good things about the area. We were really lucky and found a block that was already registered, so we could build straight away, which was fantastic.”

Why did you entrust McDonald Jones

Homes with your new home build?

e process was almost too smooth, because our twins were born, and we needed to slow it down a bit, as we both wanted to go to ornton to do our style selections in person.

“Initially it was word of mouth, and they had a great reputation as a builder who had been around for a long time. When we went to the Sovereign Hills Display Village and explored all the homes, we were really impressed with their quality and finishes compared to others. After speaking to a few other builders, it really came down to the service and connection we made

with the McDonald Jones team. They were just so professional, and happy to answer all of our questions. It made it an easy decision in the end.”

Can you tell us about your home design and why you chose this design?

“We were looking for a 4-bed, 2-bathroom home with a great alfresco area, and we knew we wanted the master bed at the rear, so the

kids were towards the front. With three young kids, we wanted to still be able to entertain and not wake them up. When we met with Ricky at McDonald Jones, he paid really close attention to what we were looking for, and he helped show the designs that were perfect for our family needs and within our price range. We absolutely fell in love with the Portillo design as soon as he showed us, it was just what we were after.”

How have you injected your personality and personal touches into the house to make it a home?

“We actually didn’t change much to the main plan at all, it was exactly what we wanted. We only made minor tweaks, like adding an extra door to the kitchen so it opened fully to our outdoor area. We also went for a Grande Alfresco which is the best decision we made, and we absolutely love it. We upgraded tiles and added pendants to suit our styling, and we went for the higher ceilings which added so much space and light to our home.”

Who from MJH helped you with your big decision and guided you through the building process?

“Ricky Perryman was our Building & Design Consultant; he is so knowledgeable of all the different designs and what would work for us. He had so many great suggestions on how to bring it to life that we hadn’t thought of, but he didn’t force anything on us. Thank goodness we went with the things he advised, because

now we absolutely love them. Our site supervisor once we started building was Jai, and he was always updating us on how it was tracking and so lovely to work with. He just made it so smooth, so transparent, and communicated beautifully.”

My biggest tip would be to find a quality builder you can trust, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and to just go for it.

Did the building process go smoothly for you and were you able to stay on track and budget?

“We were very prepared, thanks to the builder we had, so we had budgeted from the beginning for the things we wanted to upgrade for our selections and finishes, so our price from the start didn’t change at all. The process was almost too smooth, because our twins were born, and we needed to slow it down a bit, as we both wanted to go to Thornton to do our style selections in person. The McDonald Jones MyChoice Design Studio there is amazing, but overall, the build stayed on track and was about 11 months as we expected.”

How are you finding living in your new home?

“We absolutely love it! We still wake up and pinch ourselves, I feel like we are living in the Taj Mahal. Now all of our family want to build. The kids love it, everything works, and

everything we pictured came together better than we imagined. When our supervisor took us through our Practical Completion Inspection towards the end, it was the first time I really saw how it had come together and I was like wow – is this our house? I remember getting teary – even now I keep telling my husband, we are never moving! It’s perfect.”

Do you have any advice for other young families taking on a new home build?

“Juggling renting while we were building was tricky and you should plan for that. My biggest tip would be to find a quality builder you can trust, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and to just go for it. I love that this home has been made just the way we wanted it, and specifically for our family. It’s the best thing we ever did, and worth the wait, we’re so glad we went with McDonald Jones.”

What has been the best thing about your new home?

“Love it all, but especially love the McDonald Jones grande alfresco area and our kitchen. The open plan living is so great and our kids can play outside while we cook, it’s perfect. Having those big glass doors open out means we live in that space, and it’s our favourite part of our new home. It’s everything we hoped for.”

with ANTHONY BERINGEN HOME Styling

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

Elevate Your Space: Artful Tips for Hanging Artwork

Art has the power to transform a space, adding personality, warmth, and visual interest to any room. But, let's face it, hanging artwork can sometimes feel like a daunting task. From getting the height just right to creating cohesive gallery walls, there's a lot to consider. Fear not! With a few simple tips, you can confidently hang your artwork like a pro and elevate your home to new heights of style and sophistication.

First things first, let's talk about height. The cardinal rule of hanging artwork is to position it at eye level. But whose eye level? Yours, of course! When hanging artwork in your home, aim for the centre of the piece to be at about 145 to 150 cm from the floor. This ensures that the artwork is easily viewable and creates a harmonious balance within the space. Remember, this rule applies whether you're hanging a single piece or creating a gallery wall. Now that we've got the height sorted, let's discuss size. Choosing the right size artwork for your space is crucial for achieving visual balance and impact. As a general rule of thumb, the artwork should occupy about two-thirds to three-fourths of the wall space. If you're hanging a single piece, consider the scale of the wall and surrounding furniture. A large, statement piece can anchor a room and serve as a focal point, while smaller pieces can be grouped together for added interest. When it comes to grouping artwork on a wall, the key is to create cohesion while allowing

each piece to shine. Start by selecting a unifying theme, frame or colour palette for your collection. This could be anything from a series of landscapes to a mix of abstract paintings in complementary hues. Once you've curated your pieces, lay them out on the floor to experiment with different arrangements. Play around with spacing, symmetry, and balance until you find a configuration that feels just right.

When hanging multiple pieces, maintain a consistent spacing between each one to create a sense of harmony. You can achieve this by using a tape measure or simply eyeballing it for a more organic feel. Consider incorporating different sizes and shapes to add visual interest and dimension to your gallery wall. And don't be afraid to mix it up with a combination of framed artwork, photographs, and other decorative elements like mirrors or sculptural pieces.

Another pro tip for grouping artwork is to anchor the arrangement with a focal point. This could be a larger piece placed at the centre or slightly off-centre to create a dynamic composition.

Surround it with smaller pieces that complement

its style and colour scheme, creating a cohesive visual flow. And don't forget about negative space! Leave some breathing room between each piece to allow the eye to rest and appreciate the beauty of each individual artwork.

When it comes time to hang your artwork, be sure to invest in quality hardware to ensure it stays securely in place. Use picture hooks or anchors appropriate for the weight of your artwork and always double-check your measurements before making any holes in the wall. And remember, it's okay to make adjustments as needed until you achieve the perfect arrangement.

Hanging artwork in your home is both an art and a science. By following these simple tips, you can create a visually stunning display that reflects your personal style and enhances the ambiance of any room. We have a great range of beautiful pieces in store at O P E N H O U S E Furniture for you to choose from, so go ahead, unleash your inner curator and transform your walls into gallery-worthy masterpieces!

Custom-made lifts for your home or business. Proudly Australian-owned, operated and made.

Is taking the stairs in your home becoming more difficult? Have you a family member who has trouble accessing the upper levels? Perhaps you’re tired of lugging the shopping up those steps, or you just want to future-proof

suit your needs, space, décor and budget. From glossy finishes in your choice of colour, to plain or tinted glass, from swing doors to sliding doors, the choice is yours. After Sales Service: We also have a team of trained service technicians who will ensure your

SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

WE HAVE LAURA ASHLEY FEVER!

Laura Ashley has arrived in-store … and to say we are excited is an understatement!

In the store already, you can find Laura Ashley bed linen including sheet sets, doona covers, and a large variety of cushions. Coming soon, Laura Ashley fabrics for curtains, soft romans, clothing, or anything else you can lend your imagination to. Also, in store we have ranges from Catherine Martin by Mokum, Charles Parsons, Porter and Stone, Beaumont Textiles and of course Nettex, Hoad, James Dunlop, Wilson & many more.

Sadly, March saw the announcement of closures of some very long-term businesses within our region … this is obviously a very tough time for each business and their staff – I know it has also created a huge disappointment for the residents who have loved those stores and to other businesses in the region. As a business owner, it gets me thinking even more about how we stay relevant. How do we ensure that we are providing enough for our customers? … giving me even more reason to keep considering how we’re doing business and what we intend to do moving forward. We made the decision late last year to make a soft transition in our naming …. Your Home by Newton … giving insight to

some changes we have been considering … we are moving into some other product offerings to complement our blinds, awnings, shutters & curtains. Along with the Laura Ashley range we also now have available Armadillo Floor Rugs. This amazing range of rugs has a large variety of styles and pricing for you to choose from –you can place your order instore, and we will have the rug delivered straight to your door. Our dream is to provide you with a bespoke range of customised home furnishings options all in the one place … and to provide a space for you to come and explore your creative side. We have ample space with huge tables and comfy lounges for you to bring your coffee, browse through the range of home decorating books we have and to take your time getting to know all the fabric options we have. These are designed for curtains and soft romans but can be purchased to make cushions, table cloths, bed linen, throws and some are even good enough to wear. We are also so pleased with the response our customers have had to Julie from Inside Interior that we have decided to have her in each Thursday. Anyone can come to her for styling or planning advice free of charge. She has been enhancing homes for such a long

time and now she is doing it exclusively for our customers. It’s probably best to let us know you’re coming so we can put aside her time but also feel free to pop in between 10am and 2pm every Thursday with photos of your home, samples of wall colours, flooring or any other items you might be considering – Julie can help you plan a whole house, a single room or a little nook you’re not sure how to decorate. Our staff spotlight this month is shining bright on Craig Anderson who has been installing with us for almost 4 years – you may know him from his previous position with Warren Plowright Toyota. If you have been fortunate enough to have Craig working in your home, you would know you can’t find a more fastidious and conscientious tradesperson anywhere. He takes great pride in his work and his attention to detail and polite manner make him a huge asset to our team. Being the senior installer – he has also passed all these traits onto our other installers – perhaps I am a little biased, but I can honestly say “hand on heart” we have the most professional and amazing installation team you will find anywhere on the Mid North Coast.

Take the fuss out of decision-making by selecting one of Amber’s complete bathroom packages. With over 16 bathroom renovation packages to choose from, catering to a range of budgets and styles, you are sure to find the answer to your bathroom remodelling needs.

Available now at Amber Port Macquarie. Visit the showroom to see our packages on display and get help from our expert staff on your renovation.