Karly Morris is the Relieving Aboriginal Education Officer at Orara High School and a proud Gumbaynggirr, Dunghutti, and Wiradjuri woman.
Kirra Ratcliffe is a local artist who draws much of her inspiration from the stunning colours and shapes of our natural landscapes. Her canvas can change from small scale to large murals.
“I’m so excited to announce that Oak Tree Retirement Village Coffs Harbour is now open, located in Domain Drive, just off Stadium Drive.
I’m looking forward to welcoming our first residents in the coming weeks.
Oak Tree Coffs Harbour is your scenic, tranquil escape. I can’t wait to show you around our recreational facilities and brand new display villa.
I look forward to seeing you soon. It was truly worth the wait!”
• Thoughtfully positioned on a two-hectare elevated block
• Boutique village of just 53 villas
• Purpose built villas to allow you to comfortably age in place
• Step-free thresholds, wide doorways and ventilation circulations
• Live independently for longer
Contact Michelle on 0498 768 948 to book your village tour.
Studying at Southern Cross University’s Coffs Harbour campus or the National Marine Science Centre this year will prepare you to take on tomorrow and make a real difference in the Healthcare, Science, Education or Law space of the future.
Make 2023 the year you join a university that’s transforming tomorrow.
You can study: Science Nursing Midwifery Occupational Therapy Speech Pathology Sport and Exercise Science Psychological Science Law Education
Pathways to your Degree: Preparing for Success Program
Diploma of Health Undergraduate Certificate in Psychological Science Scan
Ronke: Bachelor of Nursing student
Ashlee: Bachelor of Science (Marine Systems) student.
Karma Lee Buckland is a local fire performer whose shows are beautiful and exhilarating! It’s a pretty impressive skill and we find out about how she got into it and all training involved.
Kirra Ratcliffe is a local artist who draws much of her inspiration from the stunning colours and shapes of our natural landscapes. Her canvas can change from small scale to large murals.
Saul Easman has been participating in Nippers at Sawtell SLSC since he was 5 years old. One day hopes to compete in the Nutri Grain IronMan series
Anew year, a new book, with plenty of pages to fill with a great story.
It’s the start of a brand new year. Time to set some goals and ask yourself a couple of questions. What do I want this year and how am I going to get it? What do you want this year? Go out and get it! And if it’s really epic, call us - there might be a story in it!
For the team at FOCUS, the new year always starts with thinking about how we can better write our book for the year - literally! With over 1500 pages to fill annually, we are always looking for ways to keep content engaging and relevant - everything from our regular sections, interviews, features and advertisements. If you have any ideas, drop us
a line, we would love to hear from you.
On the cover. Brent Culkin is the Manager of the Coast Hotel here in Coffs and he has an extensive background in the hospitality industry. He has built up many venues by putting together strong teams of staff and creating an atmosphere that’s fun and vibrant, while also always being mindful of people’s safety.
Inside this edition. Karma Lee Buckland is a local fire performer whose shows are beautiful and exhilarating! It’s a pretty impressive skill and we had a chat with her to find out about how she got into it and all the behind the scenes training involved.
Kirra Ratcliffe is a local artist who draws much of her inspiration from the stunning colours and shapes of our natural landscapes here on
the Coffs Coast. Her canvas can change from small scale to large murals and even vases and other objects.
Many people would think of an Arborist as someone that simply removes trees, but Michael Sullings is passionate about educating people on the importance of our trees and the wildlife they house. When he does remove a tree he plants a native tree elsewhere to replace it.
For now enjoy your summer! Remember to slip, slop, slap and swim between the flags! Thank you to all of our local lifeguards who will be keeping all of our local beaches safe this season.
Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book.- Brad Paisley
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POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 0413 816 010
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ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au
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Brent Culkin is the Manager of the Coast Hotel here in Coffs and he has an extensive background in the hospitality industry. He has built up many venues by putting together strong teams of staff and creating an atmosphere that’s fun and vibrant, while also always being mindful of people’s safety.
Hey Brent, tell us how you first got into the hospitality industry?
Well, I guess you could say it’s probably in my blood. My grandparents owned a hotel a long time ago and so did my parents when I was younger. Growing up here in Coffs, when I turned 18 I felt like I needed to experience something else so I moved to Sydney. I worked a couple of different jobs labouring and factory work during the week as well as doing bar work of a night. I loved the hospitality side so I quickly moved into that fulltime.
Your career has taken you from Coffs at times, where else have you lived and worked and what brought you back here?
Well I started off in Sydney where I worked a range of venues including busy pubs, restaurants and nightclubs.
Then for a period I managed the bars on harbour cruise boats. They were interesting times as we covered weddings, corporate events and primarily party cruises. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Sydney but I did miss the coastal lifestyle.
From there I came back to Coffs for
a short period before I transferred to the Gold Coast working in a variety of venues for a large company.
After being away for a couple years, I received a phone call and had the opportunity to move back to Coffs and take on a general manager’s role. This was when I took over the Plantation Hotel. This was extremely challenging as the venue had been closed for a while and wasn’t doing much trade and the previous management team had left so I had to pretty much start from scratch. It was hard work the first few months but after calling in some of my old friends we were able to build a very strong team. Shortly after we relaunched the entertainment side of the venue and overnight, we were hitting full capacity of 1200 patrons a night on the weekends.
After a period of time I was looking for another change and had an offer to head south to Port Macquarie. There I worked for the Rydges company overseeing a busy waterfront venue called the Beach House. After a very successful year there I was promoted to Food and Beverage Manager overseeing 3 properties, consisting of several bars, cafes, fine dining restaurants and large function spaces. This was another
challenging role overseeing 80 to 100 staff. It was a great experience working a different side of hospitality but I did miss the more laid-back pub style and entertainment venues.
Port Macquarie is a beautiful town but with the kids about to start school I wasn’t sure if it was where I wanted to settle. With all my friends and family in Coffs Harbour I looked for an opportunity to come back home and here I am now back in Coffs at the Coast Hotel and loving it.
Working in your industry you must meet a lot of people, what’s the best thing about the social side of the business?
Yes, I would say it is a good thing. Networking is quite a substantial side of running a business in which you meet a wide variety of people in your venue. I have built long lasting relationships with patrons and fellow collegues, don’t get me wrong we work very hard to get to where we want the venue to be, but I do enjoy it thoroughly. What’s the highlight of your career so far?
It’s hard to say the highlight. I’ve experienced a lot over my years in the industry. Some of the most rewarding times would be taking over a venue that might be struggling in certain areas, and being able implement changes to turn the venue around. I’ve been fortunate to be able to do this at all my previous venues and this is primarily due to the team I’ve had around me.
Continued >
HAVING A STRONG TEAM CULTURE AND SURROUNDING YOURSELF WITH MOTIVATED LIKE MINDED PEOPLE WILL MAKE ANY BUSINESS SUCCEED.
What are some of the challenges that you face in your role and how have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges in any role I feel is staffing and building a team around you. I think we all went through staffing issues after COVID which made things hard for everyone. I’ve been really fortunate to have a strong team around me which makes my job so much easier.
Having a strong team culture and surrounding yourself with motivated likeminded people will make any business succeed.
In the hospitality industry staff can create the atmosphere for the venue, so having positive, welcoming and engaging staff is crucial. There’s a lot of great venues now with great offerings so having a team that can give you a memorable experience is what sets you apart from the rest.
It’s one of the main reasons our venue has been so successful.
You’re a part of the Liquor Accord here on the Coffs Coast. Can you explain to us what that is, and how did that come about?
Well I’ve been involved in the Liquor Accord for all my years working in venues in the Coffs Harbour Region. I have always had an active role in the Accord and for the past couple of years I’ve been the Publicity Officer. To sum it up simply, the Accord is made up of licensed venues in the Coffs Harbour Region, (pubs, clubs, restaurants, bottle shops and function venues like the Race course and Stadium) working closing with the local Licensing Police, Council and other community organizations to minimise harm through responsible service of alcohol practices.
I’ve always felt it’s important for all venues to work together, and when managing venues with large numbers
of patrons it’s important to have great communication with other venues and the local police. I’ve seen the nightlife change and evolve in Coffs over the years and through better communication and management practices I feel the venues are running better than ever.
Through the Accord all venues have taken a zero tolerance stance in regards to violence and anti-social behavior.
The ‘barred from one barred from all’ policy has been extremely successful in reducing alcohol related violence and incidents.
Plus with a lot of venues having ID scanners now, and all venues talking to each other on busy nights, anyone who doesn’t show respect for others or the venues, are identified pretty quickly and no longer welcome at our establishments.
The Accord meets regularly and we are always trying to come up with new initiatives not only relatated to licensed venues but other alcohol related issues within the community.
This social season, what advice would you give to people when they’re out and about on the town?
Firstly enjoy it the best you can. The last couple of years were difficult with COVID restrictions but I feel we’re past that now and stronger than ever. Everyone should make the most of the holiday season spending time with friends and loved ones and of course celebrating in our licensed venues in the area.
The main things to remember would be to have a plan to get home, don’t risk driving if you’ve been drinking.
Know your limits, moderation is key. And, remember to look after your mates and respect others. Just the basics really haha.
If you hadn’t chosen hospitality as your career what do you think you would be doing?
Probably many different things. Haha. I love a challenge. I’ve always found myself wanting to help others find their strengths and achieve their goals. I feel fulfilled and rewarded by teaching someone and motivating them. So along the lines of mentoring or teaching I guess.
When you aren’t working where can we find Brent Culkin?
Well this time of year I’ll probably be working a lot.
But really I’m a firm believer in a balance in life. I train most days and I take my boys to karate a couple of nights a week, and whenever the weather’s good we’re down the beach or swimming somewhere.
I also don’t mind a sneaky beverage or three at a local establishment.
Love the Coffs Coast in summer… when its not raining lol.
Thanks Brent.
THERE’S A LOT OF GREAT VENUES NOW WITH GREAT OFFERINGS SO HAVING A TEAM THAT CAN GIVE YOU A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE IS WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM THE REST.
THE ACCORD MEETS REGULARLY AND WE ARE ALWAYS TRYING TO COME UP WITH NEW INITIATIVES NOT ONLY RELATED TO LICENSED VENUES BUT OTHER ALCOHOL RELATED ISSUES WITHIN THE COMMUNITY.
Mat McHugh & The Beautiful Girls are excited to announce they will be hitting the road this Summer, and for the first time ever combining the work of both of McHugh’s groups on stage. When 6th January Where Hoey Moey Tickets $44.40 oztix.com.au
The Umbilicals take the energy of live performance and the spectacle of cinema and smash them together into a new show performed simultaneously on stage and the big screen. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen, and nothing they’ve ever done, and it will blow your mind way more literally than you are expecting. When 6th, 7th, 8th January Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au
Hilarious world-class stand-up from the internationally acclaimed Irish master! You’ve seen him on The Royal Variety Performance, Live at the Apollo, Sunday Night at the Palladium, Conan O’Brien or perhaps online where he has clocked up millions of views of his comedy clips… but NOTHING beats seeing Jimeoin live. When 11th January Where C.ex Coffs Tickets cex.com.au
Prepare to experience a jaw dropping spectacle of live magic, illusions and stunts with Showmen – a supergroup of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusionists, daredevils, dancers and more! When 13th & 14th January Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au
As the book The 100 Best Australian Albums pointed out, “The Angels can lay claim to being Australia’s longest-lasting band.” They have been relentlessly on the road since 1974. When 13th January Where C.ex Coffs Tickets cex.com.au
We’re anticipating a big crowd, massive hits, and an electric atmosphere! Secure your tickets today before they sell out. Familyfriendly prices start from AUD5 for Kids, AUD25 for Adults and AUD55 for Families. Grab your family, your friends, and help us turn the volume up to ’10’!
When 17th January Where C.ex Stadium Tickets premier.ticketek.com.au
Hey Karma, Tell us how you got into fire twirling?
My father is from New Zealand, so I was exposed to the Maori art of spinning poi when I was younger. Also growing up in Melbourne I got to see fire street performers in Fitzroy. The visual aesthetic was the main thing for me and obviously the idea of
being able to control and dance with an intense element such as fire seemed like a powerful skill. How long has it taken you to get to the level you are today?
I've been training myself in flow arts for 3 years now. I have been dedicated to picking up my props almost every day and constantly challenging myself to learn new tricks, new props and gather knowledge of movement-based disciplines to improve my skill and selfdevelopment as a performing artist and teacher. Where did you learn how to work with fire?
When I first started I learnt mostly from YouTube and Instagram videos. I did a lot of my own research and found a lot of the artists I looked up to had free resources online about fire spinning specific to fire spinning safety. I got all
the equipment I needed and made sure I could confidently execute continuous movements and transitions without getting tangled or hitting myself before attempting with fire. What are the personal benefits you have found by performing?
So much dopamine!
Performing has helped me with my confidence and self-image. Putting myself in a vulnerable position to share what I love with people has taught me patience towards myself, resilience and persistence. It keeps me fit, my mind clear, and motivates me to do the best that I can. It’s a rush making people feel excited and entertained. It also introduced me to a wide community of people that appreciate and share the love of spinning things. It has been such a wonderful experience and I have met so many amazing people in the last few years. Continued over...
KARMA LEE BUCKLAND IS A LOCAL FIRE PERFORMER WHOSE SHOWS ARE BEAUTIFUL AND EXHILARATING! IT’S A PRETTY IMPRESSIVE SKILL AND WE HAD A CHAT WITH HER TO FIND OUT ABOUT HOW SHE GOT INTO IT AND ALL THE BEHIND THE SCENES TRAINING INVOLVED.
It keeps me fit, my mind clear, MOTIVATES ME TO DO THE BEST THAT I CAN and it’s a rush making people feel excited and entertained.
What are the props you need for your routine?
Fire Poi, Fire Staffs - single, double and dragon staff, Fire Fans, Rope Dart, Fire Hoops, Palm Candles, Vapour Torches, Fire Sword, Lyco Torches and Levi Wands. Safety Gear includes Fuel, Fire Blankets, Extinguishers, and more.
I need around the same variety of LED props for a light show too. It is a lot more gear than I expected to have when I decided to pursue this, but it’s well worth it. It’s not just fire you perform with. You also get creative with lighting. Tell us how you combine them for your performance?
When I first started approaching people to perform, there was often a hard time with rules and regulations especially with smaller indoor venues. I made an investment into some high quality LED props from Neo-flowart so I could put on a hypnotic multi-prop performance without fire. My favourite prop from them (and the most difficult to learn so far) has been Buugeng which are S shaped staffs used to make shapes and illusions. As well as Poi, staffs, hoop, fans, rope-dart, dragon staff and pixel whips.
What’s the feeling like for you playing around with something like fire?
That’s a hard one to describe with words, it’s
something you need to experience. Tribal, intense, empowering, scary, calming, all wrapped up into one. Depending on the size of the prop you’re working with, you will also experience different sounds and sensations. Safety is your number one concern. How do you keep yourself from catching on fire?
Building a basic knowledge of fire science and fire safety before diving in is imperative to understanding what fuels are safe, how they behave and how to extinguish props if needed. Having the appropriate safety equipment for a worst-case scenario because of how unpredictable fire is is essential and having someone watching that can intervene if you catch on fire!! Wear natural fibres, avoid baggy/ loose clothing that can interfere, and wear a beanie or spray your hair down with water too. All these things will minimise the risks. The performances are obviously very dangerous to perform, have you had any nightmares when performing?
I have had a couple of scary tangles and burnt my hair a few times when practising at home and had some solid burns from when I performed. I’ve recently been learning about
fire-eating and contact poi on fire which makes contact with skin. In the moment my adrenaline takes over and I don’t feel the full extent of the heat until after, so I don’t know if I have over done it until after the performance.
What has been the highlight of your fire career so far?
This year I travelled to SA for the Blackened Heavy Metal Festival. I was able to perform with fire next to a stage with a large crowd in an unreal location. It was an amazing atmosphere due to the nature of the event. A memory I won’t forget.
How long can you see yourself performing? Have you any other aspirations you would love to fulfil?
As long as I can! There are so many things out there that I want to try to learn and improve my skills. I would love to learn Lyra pole one day and incorporate a fire act into it! Also teaching and having a space to build a fire family and hold community gatherings where people can come and connect and learn would be a dream. Thanks Karma.
I have had a couple of scary tangles and BURNT MY HAIR A FEW TIMES WHEN PRACTISING AT HOME and had some solid burns from when I performed.
I was able to perform with fire next to a stage WITH A LARGE CROWD IN AN UNREAL LOCATION. IT WAS AN AMAZING ATMOSPHERE due to the nature of the event. A memory I won’t forget.
New Year, new look at Coffs Coast PFLAG Plus as we adopt and update our logo to be a part of the National identity. The motto for PFLAG Plus Australia is “Parents in Pride” and they are all about proactively promoting acceptance and understanding of people who disclose their sex or gender diversity to family and loved ones.
Let’s make 2023 our time to shine and step in to support those around us!
January is a great time to make new starts, new beginnings and take a really good look at our own lives, not only where we are heading but who we are as individuals. It’s a time for a change for the better and to really re-evaluate what excites us and what sustainable changes we can make! I really believe this also translates into our own attitudes hitting that reset button! It’s often geared around giving up a bad habit or a health change but have you ever thought about what you can do to be more a part of your community and the people around you?
I know we are all so busy but I must say it is so satisfying to be able to actually make a difference in someone’s life and be a part of a voluntary cause. This has been my experience with working in PFLAG Plus too. I love those conversations in the street, on the phone or randomly conversing at events or every time our group gathers over a coffee or drink.
Connection to each other is so important and I think we sometimes lose sight of how important it is to be kind and tolerant and understanding. The art of listening and being in the moment and genuinely caring are all skills that make our Coffs community special. Unfortunately, the reality is that there are still “phobias” around, but we can make changes, no matter how small and speak up. We are all
humans after all, and I believe there is no place at all for these unfounded, often learned and uneducated attitudes.
Sometimes just meeting with likeminded people or people in exactly the same situation as yourself is perfect. I am sure that’s the foundation of why these groups work. In 2023, I am revisiting more ways to entice anyone out there who would like to explore our group, that is growing in numbers too, to not be shy and come along and meet new friends and share. Being a part of a newly driven national group with new updated resources is also exciting. It is a safe group where we meet and chat casually monthly and share our stories. I welcome all ideas whether it is speakers, fundraisers etc but lets make it easy and fun yet meaningful for everyone.
So Happy New Year and wishing everyone a great and safe 2023.
PFLAGcoffscoast (private, safe closed group)
0417 861 045
pflagcoffscoast@gmail.com
I know we are all so busy but I must say it is so satisfying to be able to actually make a difference in someone’s life and be a part of a voluntary cause.
Located in the heart of Woolgoolga, C.ex Woolgoolga is a Bowls Club with a relaxed coastal feel. Enjoy a meal at Buster’s Brasserie, cold beers on the alfresco deck, relax in the air-conditioned lounge, catch up with mates in the TAB or join in the fun of some twilight bowls during the summer season. Buster’s Brasserie offers a wide variety of meals from a classic club roast or chicken schnitzel to their delicious Asian and Indian
favourites. Feel like a pizza, they’ve got you covered with a range of pizzas available for lunch. They haven’t forgotten the kids either with a selection of kid’s meals that includes free Grub Lab kids’ activity pack, making it the perfect place for families to unwind. If you’re looking for something to do check out their weekly raffles and bingo sessions plus stay active with the social bowls schedule.
With amazing views of the Kalang and Bellinger Rivers, C.ex Urunga is the perfect location to enjoy a cold beer with friends.
With an all-new bar and more improvements to come, you can enjoy a meal at The Shank Inn, a cold beer in the lounge, catch up with mates in the TAB or take advantage of daylight saving and play a round of twilight golf for just $10, from 3pm daily.
The Shank Inn offers a delicious selection of meals from a classic chicken schnitzel or the Kalang Beef Burger to a crispy skinned Atlantic salmon or chicken and cashew stir-fry. Plus, there’s
daily lunch specials that change monthly from just $15. They haven’t forgotten the kids either with a selection of kid’s meals that includes a free Grub Lab kids’ activity pack, making it the perfect place for families to unwind.
Check out their weekly raffles and stay active with a round of golf.
with pizzas, pints and barefoot bowls plus Buster’s Brasserie will be open daily for lunch and dinner with a wide range of meals on offer.
Play a round of golf and then enjoy a cold beer, at the all new bar, with the best view in Urunga. The Shank Inn is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and Thursday to Saturday for dinner.
What’s new at The Coramba Hotel? The venue has had a fresh new look and feel that enhances the relaxed atmosphere and ambience that captures the beautiful surrounds of the Orara Valley and creates a country community rustic feel for patrons and visitors.
What live entertainment can we look forward to throughout January? We have a wide selection of the best local artists the East Coast has to offer playing every Friday and Sunday with acts such as Minnie Marks on Sunday 8th, Marshall Okell on Sunday 22nd along with New Year’s Day celebrations with local favourites Hekyl & Jive, and not to be missed dates include Australia Day celebrations and our Triple J hottest 100 pool party on 28th January – onsite Accommodation is available so get in early to avoid disappointment. What’s on the menu and how can we book? Our Head Chef who has worked in some
of Australia’s top restaurants has raised the bar in the local Coffs food scene, showcasing the freshest produce and delivering a menu which has transformed Coramba Hotel into a food destination to visit and a rustic Wedding or Special Event Venue. Bookings are always recommended and can be made by calling 02 6654 4216, so as to avoid disappointment.
Are you offering any promos throughout January? During January we are running our great value $15 Members Meal Deals ($17.5 non-members, so join upon arrival) Monday to
Friday and we also now have all day pizza to enjoy as takeaway or dine in.
We also have two Happy Hours on offer, 1011am everyday with $7 pints on all taps and $5 schooners and wines Monday to Friday 4-6pm.
Coramba offers a relaxed atmosphere with amazing countryside views, great city meets country food, friendly service, and beautiful scenery and definitely worth visiting – It’s no wonder Coramba Hotel is becoming a must visit for tourist and locals and foodies.
*Terms & Conditions Apply
What’s new at The Seaview Tavern? Our kitchen had an update! Not only do we have a new head chef, Kieran, who’s worked at The Seaview for over 7 years, but we have also extended our kitchen and added another pizza oven. It’s not an easy job cooking 400 plus meals a day, but Kieran and the team handle it with ease.
What live entertainment can we look forward to throughout January? We have lots on for you in January with live music every Friday and Saturday from 8:30pm and Sundays from 3:30pm. Highlights of the amazing bands we have lined up include The Groove Robbers, Fella Felafel, and A Blues Guitar Showdown with local legend Nathan Beretta hosting some incredible Australian musicians. Check out our website or socials for the full line up. Thursday night is your chance to entertain us with Karaoke every week from 8pm.
If you play an instrument or have an amateur band, come down on Sunday 29th for the ultimate jam session, Jam Packed!
What’s on the menu and how can we book?
Chef Kieran has a new menu coming out for the holidays. Along with our blackboard specials and daily members deals there will be something there for every taste. To book call us on 02 6654 1206. Are you offering any promos throughout January? Monday to Saturday we have a
fantastic daily meal deal with discounted members prices, and it’s free to sign up!
In the bar we have cocktail specials every week, and Mates Rates happy hour is Monday to Saturday 4pm-6pm for members.
How can we book the courtesy bus and where does it go? Our courtesy bus runs on Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm and goes from Corindi Beach to Emerald Beach. Book by calling 02 6654 1206
What’s new at The Hoey Moey? Here at the Hoey we have been busy renovating our beer garden so it’s ready for summer. We have new furniture throughout the venue, a new Summer Bistro Menu, a fresh Cocktail Menu and of course that friendly smile at the bar! We have just introduced a frozen margarita tasting paddle. They consist of 3 margarita flavours including mango, watermelon and lime. Very tasty!
What live entertainment can we look forward to throughout January? The Hoey has live music 5 nights a week supporting local artists and national touring acts.
Some shows to look out for in January are.
The Beautiful Girls – January 6th, Lisa Hunt –
January 8th, free show. Vox Neon, 80’s show –January 15th, free fhow, INXS show – Live Baby Live January 22nd, free show.
What’s on the menu and how can we book? The new Summer Menu is here, and we have some great new dishes! The Moroccan Spiced Chicken Supreme is a winner along with our Portobello Mushroom Stack. As always, we have all the pub classics, kids’ meals, our $16 member meal deal and our blackboard specials available daily. Bookings at hoeymoey.com.au
Are you offering any promos throughout January? Join us for Happy Hour between 4pm and 6pm, $16 member meal deals and free entertainment throughout January. For all
information head to www.hoeymoey.com.au
What’s on through the week? Monday –Trivia from 6pm, free to play.
Tuesday – Musical Bingo from 6pm and our Pinball comp from 7pm – Both free to play.
Wednesday – Free live music from 6pm and our members draw from 7pm.
Thursday - Free live music from 6pm, Joker Poker from 6.30pm and Pool comp from 7pm.
Friday – Free live music from 5pm, meat raffles from 6pm, Crab Racing from 8pm and DJ.
Saturday – Free live music from 6pm and DJ from 9pm.
Sunday – The best Sunday Session on the coast! Free music from 4pm.
’
1ST
Push Band + DJ Ibex Switch Hoey Moey
Hekyl & Jive Coramba Hotel
Mitch Burgess Band Seaview Tavern
Party Of One Element Bar
Hannah Harlen Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
3RD
Musical Bingo Hoey Moey
4TH
Pam Hata The Coast Hotel
Mitch Burgess Hoey Moey
5TH
Dangerwaves The Coast Hotel
Hassall Duo Hoey Moey
Karaoke Seaview Tavern
Magic Jake C.Ex Coffs
6TH
Breno The Coast Hotel
Mat McHugh & The Beautiful Girls Hoey Moey
Simon & Angus Coramba Hotel
Push Band Seaview Tavern
Slim Pickens Element Bar
The Umbilical Brothers Jetty Theatre
Don’t Change – Ultimate Inxs C.Ex Coffs
Ryan Parson C.Ex Coffs
7TH
Sim-Ohh The Coast Hotel
Breno The Coast Hotel
Blakey, Mara The Coast Hotel
The Funk Thieves + DJ Dangerwaves Hoey Moey
The Groove Robbers Seaview Tavern
Kailey Pallas Element Bar
Party Of One Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
The Umbilical Brothers Jetty Theatre
Forever Rod C.Ex Coffs
Vaine Rabana C.Ex Coffs
Lisa Hunt & Forever Soul Hoey Moey
Minnie Marks Coramba Hotel
Simon & Angus Seaview Tavern
Hannah Harlen Element Bar
Josh Matheson Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
The Umbilical Brothers Jetty Theatre
10TH
Musical Bingo Hoey Moey
11TH
The Fuzz The Coast Hotel
Sam Buckley Hoey Moey
Jimeoin C.Ex Coffs
12TH
Sim-Ohh The Coast Hotel
Yhan Leal Hoey Moey
Karaoke Seaview Tavern
13TH
Ibex The Coast Hotel
Raku + DJ Dangerwaves Hoey Moey
Tlarmon Coramba Hotel
Pistol Whip Seaview Tavern
Slim Pickens Element Bar
SHOWMEN Jetty Theatre
The Angels C.Ex Coffs
Mitch Dixon C.Ex Coffs
14TH
Dicko The Coast Hotel
Sim-Ohh The Coast Hotel
Charlee P, Mara The Coast Hotel
Rowland & Shekinah + DJ Panda Hoey Moey
The Jacks Seaview Tavern
Benny Black Element Bar
Paul Fogarty Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
Showmen Jetty Theatre
DJ Ibex C.Ex Coffs
15TH
Voxneon + DJ Kyle James Hoey Moey
Brody Ireland Coramba Hotel
Tlarmon Seaview Tavern
Party Of One Element Bar
Yhan Leal Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
17TH
Musical Bingo Hoey Moey
18T
Owen Shannon The Coast Hotel
Matty Devitt Hoey Moey
19TH
Prozac The Coast Hotel
Tim Stokes Hoey Moey
Karaoke Seaview Tavern
Wayne The Whale With A Hole In His Tail
Jetty Theatre
20TH
Breno The Coast Hotel
T’larmon + Dj Ibex Switch Hoey Moey
Sam Dyball Coramba Hotel
Whos Charlie Seaview Tavern
Slim Pickens Element Bar
Wayne The Whale With A Hole In His Tail
Jetty Theatre
Water For The Madman Jetty Theatre
Sarah Mckenna- C.Ex Coffs
21ST
Ibex The Coast Hotel
Bern The Coast Hotel
Blakey, Tallis The Coast Hotel
Josh Matheson Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
Grease Lightning Party! With Live Band
Vanessa Lea & The Retro Train + Dj Raven Hoey Moey
The Blues Showdown! Seaview Tavern
Jimmi Crisp Element Bar
Wayne The Whale With A Hole In His Tail
Jetty Theatre
Dj Joel C.Ex Coffs
22ND
Live Baby Live Inxs Tribute Show + Dj
Dangerwaves Hoey Moey
Marshall Okell Coramba Hotel
Steve Bennett Seaview Tavern
Paul Fogarty Element Bar
Jimmi Crisp Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
24TH
Musical Bingo Hoey Moey
Magical Circus Show C.Ex Coffs
25TH
Yhan Leal The Coast Hotel
Austyn Jane Hoey Moey
Magical Circus Show C.Ex Coffs
26TH
Dicko The Coast Hotel
Karaoke Hoey Moey
Marshall Okell Seaview Tavern
27TH
Mara The Coast Hotel
Billie-Jo Porter + DJ Panda Hoey Moey
Josh Matheson Coramba Hotel
Fella Felafel Seaview Tavern
Kailey Pallas Element Bar
Wild Thyme Jetty Theatre Steve Taylor C.Ex Coffs
28TH
Dicko The Coast Hotel
Blakey The Coast Hotel
Hey Its Liron, Rjay The Coast Hotel
Marshall Okell Duo + DJ Ossix Hoey Moey
Rnb Night With DJ Panda Seaview Tavern
Benny Black Element Bar
Slim Pickens Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
29TH
Greenstone Hoey Moey
Austyn Jane Coramba Hotel
Jam Packed Seaview Tavern
Yhan Leal Element Bar
Party Of One Dark Arts Cafe & Bar
31ST
Musical Bingo Hoey Moey
What is the Coffs Harbour Liquor Accord? “CHLA”. The CHLA is an incorporated body containing multiple stakeholders. We address local liquor licensing issues in a proactive way based on harm minimisation, through best practice Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) initiatives. We listen to the community and local Police to address issues and implement policies designed to minimise community disruption by consumption of alcohol.
Who is involved? We have pubs, clubs, restaurants, resorts, bottle shops, event centres, small bars, and breweries who get together with Police, Council and any other group that may wish to discuss local issues. Check out our website for a full list, but we have approximately 50 registered financial members.
What is your current focus? The simple answer is RSA. We have implemented a Multi
Venue Barring (MVB) system that allows us to bar individuals from entering any CHLA licensed premise. This is a communication tool which has over 100 people listed as "Not Welcome" for various reasons. Examples are below, however a full list of offences can be found on the website.
• Anti-social behaviour – We will not tolerate aggressive or intimidating behaviour including damaging property. You will be MVB for 1 to 3 years.
• Illegal substances – If you are caught in or near a licenced premises with illegal substances, you will be MVB for 1 to 3 years.
• If you are under 18 and are caught trying to
enter a venue, in a venue or in possession of fake ID, you will be MVB until you are 19. You may also have your P Plates extended for an additional 3 months.
• If you supply fake ID to an underaged person you will be MVB for 1 year.
What is our advice! The Coffs Coast has some great venues. We encourage you to head out and enjoy them all in a safe and respectful manner. If you are under 18 follow the rules. Everyone else just needs to behave themselves and enjoy our venues responsibly. You do not want a MVB notice served on you by the venue management or the local Police.
The Coffs Harbour Liquor Accord had been developed as a partnership involving the input and cooperation of the key stake holders. It is based on harm minimisation and Responsible Service of Alcohol principles contained within the liquor laws. All parties undertake to implement the principles to improve the safety and environment in the Coffs Harbour local area.
The underpinning strategy is to address community issues by community members in a proactive way that will deliver best outcomes for all parties including local licensees, Police, the Roads & Traffic Authority, the Mid North Coast Area Health Service, Coffs Harbour City Council, licensing authorities, Health Services, the business community, residents and visitors.
On Sunday, 4 December, the rivalry was fierce, the games were tough, and purple was everywhere at Sportz Central as Coffs Harbour's basketball community competed in the Ball Against Domestic Violence 3x3 Street Hustle charity event.
The tournament raises awareness of domestic violence, including consent and respect, and this year $4,000+ was donated to Wesley Mission to support children, families, and others in need.
Over the day, 60 teams played across divisions ranging from 10 & Under, Open Mens and Womens, to Emergency Services Personnel - possibly the most competitive of all!
Kevin White, NBL player and Charity Bounce Youth Engagement and Player Liaison, watched from the sidelines, answered questions from players of all
ages, and gave out awards.
"If one kid takes away one piece of information, walks away a better person, or can make their community better, then we've done our job. To hear some of the kids ask, 'what is domestic violence?' and to see them all wearing purple is so cool."
The court is halfsized in fast-paced 3×3 games. Four players are on each team, but only three on the court at any time and they only have 12 seconds to put a shot up.
This is the second Ball Against Domestic Violence Tournament with Kiah Bowen, NSW Police Force Region Domestic and
Family Violence Coordinator, North Coast Basketball's Rob Linton, and Cass Wilson, the driving forces behind the event.
The event was made possible through a partnership with Basketball NSW and a group of amazing local sponsors and supporters, including Sportz Central, CHCC, Hoey Moey, Uniting, Becoming U, Busways, C2C, Efi Evolutions, CEX Group, The Physio Movement, Coffs Coast Hand Therapy, Spectre Real Estate, Black Santa Cattle Company, 3J by DJ, Ace Performance, Food Culture Nutrition, Gallows Brewing Co, Boob Armour, Coffs Harbour Basketball Association and many more.
COMPETE IN A
If one kid takes away one piece of information, walks away a better person, or can make their community better, then we’ve done our job.
Situated on Hogbin Drive, just minutes from the heart of Coffs Harbour, The Link run by Sawtell Catholic Care and the café itself are a great place to spend time with family or friends when you need a break from the busy world outside. You will feel good sitting lakeside, enjoying a bite to eat, and knowing you're directly contributing to the Gumbaynggirr Community.
Here you will find your favorite café classics such as burgers, fish and chips, toasted sandwiches as well as new favorite acai bowls, along with many other choices. The café proudly serves Black and White Espresso blend, which is owned by local company Artisti Coffee Roasters.
The Link Community Gardens received the coveted National Green Space Regional Award this year at the Australian Institute of Horticulture’s Awards Ceremony, held in Melbourne in October.
"Community spaces such as this are so
The Cafe at THE LINK in Toormina is run by local Aboriginal business ‘Nyanggan Gapi,’ and offers an ideal place to stop for a coffee while taking in the vibrant nature backdrop of the community gardens.
important, providing people a place to be together and connect with each other. We also appreciate the importance of incorporating the environment into our community spaces. Vital for our wellbeing but also important, by providing green spaces within our urban areas that give refuge to our wildlife.
Our Gumbaynggirr values and culture, guide how we conduct our businesses. We chose this location with SCC because it is very important to us that The Link reflects these values, with its emphasis on sustainability as well as providing accessibility to Elders and other members of the Community."
not-for-profit organisation ‘Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation’. This enterprise not only supports the community through the core programs of BMNAC but also provides training and employment to local Aboriginal people.
The café and surrounding gardens include a playground, covered outdoor areas, wheelchair accessibility and aims to create an inclusive and inviting area for all.
You might recognise the name Nyanggan Gapi Café from the café at the iconic Sealy Lookout which has been serving quality coffee since it’s beginnings in 2017. Established during NAIDOC week 2017 and running stronger than ever today, the enterprise owes much of it’s success to the ongoing support of community and partners.
Nyanggan Gapi Café is a social enterprise of
"We have grown a lot since opening, in 2018, the Sealy Lookout Café was upgraded thanks to the efforts of Uncle Barry Hoskins, who donated over $16K which allowed us to
purchase a new container to house our forest café.
Then, during 2020 like many others, our business was greatly impacted by COVID. Being located at Sealy Lookout, the majority of our business came from holiday travellers and visiting tourists, who overnight had completely disappeared. We are very fortunate to have survived to still be in operation today where many others did not. We are incredibly grateful for everyone that supported our business and saw us through."
Through a fund that aimed to drive economic growth for regional businesses that rely on tourism income and were impacted by COVID, we were able to upgrade the Sealy Lookout Café last year, to what you see today. We are also fortunate to have a beautiful outdoor seating area constructed from timber donated by Coffs Harbour Hardwood and built in partnership with the NSW Forestry Corporation. Now in 2022, we’ve expanded into new territory through a second location and sit down dining. We were able to secure this fantastic location through a partnership with Sawtell Catholic Care, who we have had a relationship with, going back to the days when it was just our coffee van serving their location. You might think that is where Nyanggan Gapi’s story begins, but we actually have to go back 12 years ago to 2012 and the the BMNAC Goori Learning Centre Programs (GLC), where all 8 of the current Café staff began their relationship with BMNAC. "All of our café staff were part of these
programs from a young age, attending GLC’s to help them excel in school and be ‘Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan’ - which translates to ‘two paths strong’, and is the corporation's ethos.
We have watched them grow, develop and achieve so much since those first days in the GLC, including Tyla Hart, who was one of those first GLC students when it was just known as homework centres and is now a Co-manager at our Café. We pride ourselves in community building through empowering and supporting our youth and are incredibly proud of all our friendly, hardworking staff.
We are very grateful to our partners that share our altruistic goals, such as Artisti Coffee Roasters that have been supporting us since 2017 and provided the training for all our baristas at no cost."
All proceeds from the café go back to the community through BMNACs core programs including the GLC and towards the Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School, the first bi-lingual school of it's kind in NSW.
"Each dollar spent with Nyanggan Gapi is more than just a coffee, it’s community building, its education for children, it’s a coffee with purpose."
"We’ve been finding our groove and steadily growing business at the Toormina Café since our opening in October last year. Customers have been steadily increasing as people learn about us and once they’ve come here, we’re
seeing them again and again because it is just such a lovely spot with good food.
We’re looking forward to the Summer school holidays starting and we are expectings things to pick up with the beautiful weather and people getting out for the holidays. We’re looking forward to more people finding out about us and meeting some new faces along with seeing our regulars.
Our staff are friendly and responsive. We listen carefully to our customers' wants, needs, and concerns; we encourage feedback from them at every opportunity and we make an effort to accommodate their requests whenever possible."
The café and surrounding gardens include a playground, covered outdoor areas, wheelchair accessibility and aims to create an inclusive and inviting area for all.
Nyanggan Gapi Cafe and The Link Community Gardens are free to visit with access to the public and are open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. (with the café kitchen closing for meals at 2:30 pm)
Holiday hours remain the same with some dates closed - check the website www. nyanggangapi.com for holiday closure dates.
Visit Nyanggan Gapi Café and The Link Community Gardens at 631 Hogbin Drive, Toormina.
Mat McHugh has had a great love for music his whole life. He started The Beautiful Girls and it took off like a rocket, the music connecting with audiences in Australia and all over the world. He has since released more music under his own name, collaborating with many of the same musicians and friends as The Beautiful Girls. Mat McHugh & The Beautiful Girls will be playing at the Hoey Moey in Coffs on the 6th January. It will be a collection of all of his music and Mat is so excited to be kicking off 2023 with a tour, and the first show is right here in Coffs Harbour!
Hi Mat. Can you tell us a bit about your introduction to music and when you realised this was something you wanted to pursue as a career?
I never really wanted to pursue this as a career, funny enough.
I begged my Dad to join the school band when I was in year one, I was about six years old. I don't know why I was just obsessed. My Dad played guitar and sang, but just kind of for fun around the house, but then I just became really obsessive about learning music. He passed away when I was nine, and I just kept playing and I've always loved it.
I've always been pretty introspective and a bit of a social outcast. So when everyone else was out partying and being social I was just always more interested in hanging inside drawing or playing instruments and making music and creating my little world. I just liked it that way. I studied design when I left school and I had no intention of being a musician, but it just kind of happened and took off really fast. Then when opportunities arose, I thought I owe it to myself to take the opportunities I've been given, to do my best with them. I just approach it that way, if I'm able to make another record and do another tour, then I just keep going.
So I keep just seeing what happens, but there has certainly been no intentional career aspirations at any point along the way, for good or for bad.
When it first blew up we got a song on national radio, and it went from playing open mic nights with a couple of friends to the first tour we did nationally selling out. For about the next 10 years every single show everywhere we played sold out, and many many times during that
era I just wanted to give it up. I didn't feel like it suited my constitution, or wasn't too healthy for me mentally, but I'm in a good place with it now. I feel like it's definitely a blessing, an accidental blessing. I guess sometimes, the universe has an idea for you that you might not have for yourself, so I just kind of roll with it.
How would you describe your style of music and where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from?
Well I like to call it, like the title of our Best Of album, Seaside Highlife, which is what I consider our sound to be. I grew up in not the most affluent suburb, it was a Housing Commission ghetto town by the beach in Sydney, mostly single parents and ratbag kids. We didn't really have much to look forward to. There wasn't any future fortune 500 CEOs coming out of where we lived. But we had culture and we had art and music, we had punk rock and hip hop and reggae and just stuff that brought us great joy and brings people great joy all around the world. And I guess my style of music probably encapsulates all that. All the sounds and the sights and the smells that I had growing up, we mashed it all together and tried to make something that represented what it felt like and sounded like growing up where I did.
to a finished tune?
I don’t think you really ever perfect it, I’ve been doing it my whole life and I feel like a complete novice. I get bored pretty quickly with a lot of things and music is definitely one thing that I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of because you never know everything which is the great part.
What is your process like when creating a song, from the writing stages through
It's different from time to time, usually when we are working to a deadline I can take the smallest little piece of inspiration and craft something. And if there's no deadline, which has been the last few years, I just tend to meander about and wait for inspiration to strike. So I'll fool around on the guitar and something interesting will pop up and I'll try to craft that into something worthwhile and make some kind of melody over the top with some nonsense syllables, eventually the lyrics come in a kind of stream of consciousness. I try to stay out of the way really, so if there's an initial spark of inspiration I try to chase it without thinking about it too much, it’s a weird kind of state, you want to be in that moment instead of getting too mathematical or scientific about it. And once you've exhausted that initial inspiration, I think it's where the craft, the maths and science comes in where you craft it into a finished product. It's a bit of a balancing act, and I don't think you really ever perfect it, I've been doing it my whole life and I feel like a complete novice. I get bored pretty quickly with a lot of things and music is definitely one thing that I don't think I'll ever get bored of because you never know everything which is the great part.
Continued over...
How do you feel your musical style has evolved over the years?
I think initially when it started, it was all a bit reactionary in the sense of, if something's really popular and oversaturated I tend to want to do the exact opposite, right? So when we started the most popular thing I guess, was indie rock and the tail end of grunge. It was all pretty distorted and angst driven rock music, and the only gigs you could get around where I came from, was if you turned the fuzz pedal on and pretended that you had some kind of
angst. And I grew up in bands playing that kind of stuff too, but I just got sick of it. I went away overseas and I came back and I thought, you know what, I'm gonna do the exact opposite.
I'm gonna play the mellowest, softest acoustic songs, I'm going to unplug all the distortion pedals, I'm going to call the project a really gentle kind of name
that makes fun of all the tough boy angsty stuff. And that kind of just took on a life of its own and then we became known as this acoustic flagbearer and that didn’t sit very well with me either, so I tried to escape that, and I guess as soon as someone thinks they’ve got it sorted out of what I sound like or what we sound like I try to do the opposite. It's kind of all just become a big melting pot of everything now. I feel like there's been enough water under that bridge where anything goes, as long as it's good, and it's got heart and spirit to it, and it's honest, then I'm cool with all of it. There’d been a time where I pretty much sold all my
I’m gonna play the mellowest, softest acoustic songs, I’m going to unplug all the distortion pedals, I’m going to call the project a really gentle kind of name that makes fun of all the tough boy angsty stuff.
acoustic guitars and I didn't want to hear one or look at one, and I was pretty hardlined, I was pretty reactionary against them. And now it's softened, everything's fair game. Mat McHugh & The Beautiful Girls will be performing at the Hoey Moey on the 6th January, what can we expect from this show?
Well it’s the first show of the tour. So that's peak excitement, we don't get much more psyched than the first show! We've been rehearsing hard and we will continue rehearsing right up to the start of the tour. Shannon, our keyboard player’s family is from Coffs, so there's a crew of his family and friends that’ll be there so it’s a bit of a hometown show for him. It's been three years since we've toured, we toured Summer 2020 and we finished that right as the Black Plague (COVID) hit, we all went back into our dark caves, peeping out until we saw the coast was clear. Now we feel like it might be the right time and there's a lot of pent up musical energy so Coffs will get the first full brunt of it!
It's a little bit of a convoluted tale, but when I started releasing music, I called it The Beautiful Girls because I wasn't too confident, I didn't really feel like putting it under my name. And then I got to a point where I felt like maybe I should just put some music out in my name. So I did that, but the two of them have been kept separate even though the collective of players I play with is very much the same. But weirdly I have never played a set list where all of the songs have been fair game. It's always like, ‘Okay, we're gonna go on tour and play the Beautiful Girls songs’ or the ‘Mat McHugh’ songs on a separate tour. So it's the very first tour where everything I've ever released, which is quite a bit, it's all in the bucket and we get to pick it out. So that's the most exciting part, looking at all the songs and
trying to put together a set list. I've been thinking about a set list for a couple of months now, putting pieces here, putting songs in, pulling them out, and there's only so much time you want to be on stage. So it's exciting trying to put together essentially a Best Of set list of what I consider the best songs I've ever done, giving them fresh energy, and then also trying out some new songs which I've been
writing over the last couple of years. Anyone will tell you that if you have an injury or you get sidelined from something you love, you get a new lease of life on it. You want to get back and be reinvigorated and participate and be creative. And so it's all really exciting. It's probably the most excited I've been to be on tour since the very start of the band!
Where can people find out more about the show or get tickets? Check out thebeautifulgirls.com or matmchugh.com for tickets and info.
So it’s the very first tour where everything I’ve ever released, which is quite a bit, is all in the bucket and we get to pick it out.
Hi Mike and Christopher. It is such a pleasure to speak with you both. What have you been up to? I know you must be relieved to be performing live again after a couple of years of COVID restrictions?
Mike and I were touring America when the pandemic hit before being rushed home. During the pandemic, when we had the time and took the opportunity to really stop and just dream about what the future might hold for us, well, that’s when “SHOWMEN” was born. We started touring SHOWMEN in April last year, and it has been amazing to give audiences a live spectacle that they can’t witness anywhere else.
SHOWMEN comprises a supergroup of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusionists, and daredevils in a family-friendly, jaw-dropping spectacle of live magic, illusions and stunts. We have been described by critics as being “The Avengers of Magic”. We are a supergroup. This isn’t just a magic show, it’s a spectacle of magic, circus and stunts –audiences don’t get a moment to exhale. It really is very exciting to see!
What do you hope an audience will take away after seeing the incredible skillset of
each performer live on stage?
The only thing we want our audiences to take away from SHOWMEN is magical memories. As cheesy as that sounds, after the last few years more than ever, there is nothing quite as special as getting together with the people in your life and sharing incredible experiences. We want people to leave a performance feeling refreshed and positive. That’s certainly what we love about live theatre, and that’s what we offer in SHOWMEN.
SHOWMEN comprises a supergroup of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusionists, and daredevils in a family-friendly, jawdropping spectacle of live magic, illusions and stunts.
Apollo Jackson won Sophie Monk’s (and Australia’s) heart on “The Bachelorette” with his magic and his charm. His job in SHOWMEN is to showcase the intimate side of magic.
Joel Fenton “The Cirque Stuntman” is one of the best circus performers on the planet. He juggles chainsaws, climbs inside giant weather balloons, and keeps the show alive with the most hilarious and amazing circus stunts you have ever seen.
‘We have no message for you, We have no food for thought, We just want to astound and entertain you.’
Take us through each cast member and what they bring to the line-up?
We wanted SHOWMEN to be a “buffet of entertainment” for the entire audience to feast on. Every performer in SHOWMEN has their own unique set of skills.
Josh Norbido is a magician and Rubik’s Cube genius. He is the only magician on the planet who combines live magic with hip hop and beat boxing at the same time.
Mike Tyler is the mind reader in the show. He is funny, suave, and knows what you are thinking. That’s a dangerous combination. Christopher Wayne (me, hi). I’m the MC. I come from a background as a comedy magician, and that’s what I bring to this show. Prepare to laugh, a lot!
For people wanting to find out more about SHOWMEN, book their tickets or connect with you online, how can they get in touch?
All of the information (including some really cool videos from the show) can be found at www.officialshowmen.com
Hi Kirra. Tell us about your early days as an artist and discovering your love of creating art? For as long as I can remember, I have always been creative. My family always encouraged me to express my creativity though making art in any form.
I first fell in love with art through fashion, dressing myself from a young age in bright outrageous clothing, always mismatching my rainbow hat and stripey toe socks to anything I wore. I discovered my love for painting when I was 6 years old after creating a painting. My school then entered this work into a competition. My work placed and was displayed in the new building at the University
of New England Armidale for a year.
I have always had a strong connection to my creativity, always drawing inspiration from the beautiful Gumbaynggirr land surrounding me. This is where my true love for creating art was born.
I occasionally use spray paint when working on bigger surfaces, I find using spray paint a bit harder than acrylic as it’s harder to ‘control’ the placement of paint.
What mediums do you like to use? When painting canvases or murals, I mainly use acrylics for my backgrounds and add patterns over the top with posca pens. I really enjoy using acrylic paint and posca pens together.
Using acrylic allows me to create a beautiful flow of colours and then adding posca pens over the top brings out the colours to create bright vibrant pieces of work. I occasionally use spray paint when working on bigger surfaces. I find using spray paint a bit harder than acrylic as it’s harder to ‘control’ the placement of the paint.
I also enjoy ‘fluid art or ‘Acrylic pouring’. I create my own paints when doing acrylic pours. I do this using a small amount of acrylic
paint and adding a pouring medium called ‘floetrol’ (waterborne paint conditioner) to make a liquid consistency. Once I’ve mixed up my paints
I add a few drops of silicone oil. By adding the oil it allows the paint to separate, helping create the illusion of layers of different colours showing through the effect of ‘cracks’ and ‘bubbles’.
How would you describe your style of art? I would describe my style of art as Abstract, a reflection on the world’s natural beauties. My work is vibrant and inspired by landscapes. I take the colours and landmarks of nature and project them into my creations.
My art is often a reflection of the ocean creating a powerful but peaceful vibe. My brush strokes are expressive and elegant creating soothing arrays of colour contrasted with bold lines to create a glowing effect.
You have started creating some amazing murals. What is it like to work on such a large scale and what do you enjoy about that kind of work? Taking an idea and transferring it onto a larger scale can be challenging, although I find creating murals exciting as it allows me to push myself to be more creative. It provides me with more freedom to truly express myself. I enjoy transforming a plain
surface into a piece of art and the feeling of accomplishment once it’s completed.
When I was in year 11 I created my first mural on the side of a van. This opportunity was thrilling, enabling me to step outside my comfort zone and take steps towards believing in my abilities and myself. This experience lead to further opportunities in the community including murals at the Toormina Skate Park.
Where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from? I draw my inspiration from the beauty of nature. I am lucky enough to live on Gumbaynggirr Country (Sawtell) and I am thankful every day for the amazingly beautiful and mesmerising bright vibrant colours provided to us from the land we walk on and the waterways we swim in.
Continued over...
This opportunity was thrilling, enabling me to step outside my comfort zone and take steps towards believing in my abilities and myself.
Most people have a favourite colour, mine is when the sun is rising or setting. The colours created in the sky and the ocean when the sun is rising or setting is the most beautiful expression of art I have ever seen, all the amazing shades of blues, pinks, reds, oranges and yellows are stunning! I love how no two are ever the same. Every time the sun rises or sets, new patterns and colours are created. When creating art I like to think of myself as the sun, creating bright vibrant colours and the canvas as the world, allowing those colours to be projected onto the canvas creating beauty and joy. No two artworks are ever the same, each one is unique and beautiful in its own way.
Can you tell us a bit about
processes, how
go from an idea to a finished piece? I transform my ideas to finished pieces by going with the flow and letting the brush lead me. I take inspiration from real life landmarks using the colours, tones, shapes and patterns I see and convert them into an abstract form. I believe there are no ‘mistakes’
in creating art, only endless possibilities. Do you have a current favourite piece that you have worked on? Yes, my favourite piece is my latest work titled ‘Resilience’. The title symbolises happiness, overcoming tough times and endless opportunities. I have chosen the word Resilience because no matter what we experience the sun will continue to rise again. I used acrylic and posca pens on canvas, framed with Karri Hardwood. I started by
I BELIEVE THERE ARE NO ‘MISTAKES’ IN CREATING ART, ONLY ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.
your
you
I have chosen the word Resilience because no matter what we experience the sun will continue to rise again. I used acrylic and posca pens on canvas, framed with Karri Hardwood.
mixing shades of reds, greens and blues to create the background, the sun, mountains and ocean. Once dried I added in a black outline around the sun and mountains to make the colours stand out. The last step was adding patterns using posca pens, adding white stars on top of the black outline around the sun and green spirals into the mountains. Adding the patterns and stars at the end made the colours pop creating the feelings of calmness and being at piece within yourself.
‘Resilience’ inspired by my favourite headland Southies (Sawtell). Most days I sit up at Southies and look out at the beautiful waterways and the amazing mountains behind it. Whenever I’m struggling and need to bring myself back into a healthy headspace, I sit at Southies and admire the beauty
surrounding me. The crashing of waves heading into the creek, the flowing of the creek as the tide is pushing in or out, the mountain range from Sawtell to South West Rocks and all the beautiful colours and amazing sounds coming from the wildlife. Allowing myself to give into nature creates complete calmness and allows me to think more clearly, problem solve and make rational decisions. I have channelled these feelings into ‘Resilience’ with hopes that it radiates the same energy within others.
You’ve recently started putting your work out there more on social media etc. What has the response been like and as something that started as a hobby where would you like to see your art take you into the future? I started @kirrashea.art on
Instagram 2 years ago. The response has been positive and my friends and family have been supportive by sharing my page and re-sharing my posts to help me expand my following and promote my artworks.
The future for KirraShea Art is bright. I plan to expand my business in 2023 by working with local youth services who support young people (12yrs-25yrs) to run mindfulness art sessions. I also have goals around exhibiting my art in galleries, shops and market stalls.
Whenever I’m struggling and need to bring myself back into a healthy headspace, I sit at Southies and admire the beauty surrounding me.
But as Christmas and New Year passed, I would find myself looking forward to going back to school. Friends, sport, study – so much to look forward to. It was also the time to buy new uniforms and stationery.
This year, inflation and rising interest rates have hit hip pockets across the state. What should be an exciting time of year might not be for all families.
To help ease this cost on families, the NSW Government has launched the Back to School NSW Voucher program which will help families cover the cost of essential school items such as stationery, textbooks, school uniforms, shoes and bags to help combat the rising cost of living.
The program will provide families with $150 for each child who attends a primary, secondary school, is home-schooled or enrolled in Year 10 or Year 12 equivalent qualifications at TAFE NSW in NSW in 2023. The program will
cover public, private and independent school students and won’t be means tested.
The $150 can go towards the cost of school uniforms, shoes, bags or textbooks, as well as other stationery.
We want to make sure every child attending school has the opportunity to strive for their best when they are in the classroom and providing access to essential items for learning is our priority.
Parents or carers can start applying for the vouchers from now and can spend them until 30 June 2023, giving everyone plenty of time to take advantage of the savings. Applying for the vouchers is simple and can be done in a matter of minutes using the Service NSW app, on the phone or by visiting a Service Centre.
Parents and carers can search for registered businesses in their local area by using the online Business Finder Tool and can use multiple vouchers in one transaction.
For more information about the vouchers visit www.service.nsw. gov.au/back-to-schoolvouchers.
Call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit your local Service NSW Centre.
You can search for registered businesses here: https://vouchers. service.nsw.gov.au/ vouchers/providerssearch/
Parents and kids should look forward to going back to school and we’ve taken some of the stress out of back-to-school shopping. Happy learning!
It’s no secret that I loved school, but like every kid I also loved Christmas. The excitement of opening presents, some time off, spending time with friends and family were all things I looked forward to towards the end of the school year.
This year, inflation and rising interest rates have hit hip pockets across the state. What should be an exciting time of year might not be for all families.
Parents, guardians, carers or students can apply for 3 x $50 vouchers totalling $150 for each eligible student.
The vouchers can be used towards the cost of school uniforms, shoes, bags, textbooks and stationery at registered businesses before 30 June 2023.
You can apply for vouchers for more than one student in the same application as long as they're on the same Medicare card. You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code.
dental hygienist’s role in a dental practice is to treat, manage and maintain your overall oral health. Our focus is on preventive dentistry, which is the practice of caring for your teeth and gums to keep them healthy. This helps to avoid or lower your risk of future dental problems and other health complications.
At your oral hygiene appointments, our Dental Hygienists will provide a number of services including:
• Alongside the dentist we will assist with a full dental assessment, to note your current dental condition and detect any potential problems.
• Completing periodontal charting, to measure the health of the gum and bone levels surrounding each tooth.
• Performing professional teeth cleans. This involves scaling and polishing to remove plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces, including between the teeth and below the gumline.
• Fluoride application
• Preventing and treating gum inflammation (gingivitis).
• Assessing, and if necessary, managing, gum
• Oral cancer screening (in conjunction with your dentist)
• Saliva testing
• Preventative treatments such as fissure sealants
• Oral health education and dental product education (including how to brush and floss your teeth properly at home).
• Advising if you should be using any specialty dental products (such as high-fluoride toothpaste, or antiseptic mouthwash) depending on your personal medical and oral condition(s).
• Advising on lifestyle and medical factors that may negatively affect the health of your mouth.
• Diagnosing any problems, or potential problems, in their early stages.
• Creating a personalised oral hygiene plan for you, which will include routine
dental check-ups and a custom home-care procedure.
Maintaining good dental hygiene can greatly reduce your risk of developing cavities (Tooth decay), gum disease, enamel erosion, periodontitis, and other dental problems. This equates to fewer dental visits, less invasive treatment, and less cost.
Tooth decay and gum disease are the two most common causes of tooth loss in adults, and they are both preventable with routine dental care and a good at-home oral hygiene routine.
At Welcome Dental we offer hygienists to our patients Monday – Friday and one Saturday per month. Our hygienists will use the Airflow unit for cleaning. You can schedule an appointment online at welcomedental.com.au or call us on (02) 6655 5800 and speak to one of our friendly reception team.
Get a head start on your New Year’s Resolutions with Emsculpt at Sapphire Studio!
By now you’ve probably started your gym membership, a healthier diet and signed up to that HIIT class, so why not throw one of the most cutting-edge, nonsurgical ways to define your muscles and rid stubborn fat in the mix too!
Emsculpt is a new technology to the Coffs Coast – it’s FDAcleared for strengthening, toning, and firming the abdominals and rear region. This gamechanging technology helps to achieve better posture, next-level abdominal contouring results and increases the gluteal region’s strength and stamina to not only help you lose fat and tone the area (all while laying down), but also provide more core and glute strength so you can take your regular work outs up a notch!
Emsculpt uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to deliver almost 20,000 muscular contractions in one 30-minute session – that’s equivalent to 20,000 crunches in
30-minutes! During the process, the muscles are essentially overworked and release chemicals that signal fat cells to break down. Once the fat cells are broken down, they’re metabolised and released as waste.
You will start noticing changes in the area we treat after your second or third treatment, and in a matter of weeks, others will be asking what you’ve been doing! This is a completely non-invasive treatment with zero down-time or prep, and is widely used by celebrities including the likes of Kim Kardashian, Megan Fox, Britney Spears, Hailey Bieber and more.
Over the past few months, we’ve seen some incredible results in our local clients. From people wanting a stronger core to see greater results from their workouts, to new mums who need a little extra help to feel like they’re back to their old selves again. This month we’re offering 30% off as our way of helping you reach your New Year’s Resolution goals faster! Book now through our website or contact us through socials.
The need to affiliate with and be accepted by a group involves more than simply being acquainted with other people.
Belonging concentrates on gaining acceptance, attention, and support from members of the group as well as it being reciprocated. Groups studied through a social psychology lens, such as sporting, friendships, and political groups are defined by traditions of common traits, language, culture, and ideology. The thoughts, feelings, and beliefs of individuals influence each other, as people strive to conform to the standards and norms of the group.
Norms are standards of behaviours that group members are expected to display. Norms can also extend to a range of group behaviours such as greetings, handshakes, dress codes, and language. These are often unspoken rules and rituals that drive an individual’s behaviour.
Groups are identified as a cohort of individuals who share certain beliefs or characteristics. This definition includes groups such as your neighbourhood, city, or town, and smaller groups like the family unit. The observable actions of a group make up the definition of group behaviour. For example, how and why do some groups act out of a collective sense of kindness, inclusion, and acceptance, while others seem motivated by prejudice, exclusion, and violence? An understanding of group behaviour helps explain why individuals might make certain decisions under the influence of
a group, a decision they would not have made alone. This kind of personality change is based on group membership and belongingness.
Belongingness refers to a fundamental human emotional need to be accepted by others. The need to belong can lead to changes in behaviours, and attitudes. Belongingness comes from a perception of quality, meaning, and satisfaction with social connections.
A sense of belonging can also relate to a special place or a life event. It is therefore a complex and dynamic process unique to each person. However, an absence of belonging has negative effects on people, both physically and psychologically.
The motivation to seek out specific groups is the need to belong to certain social groups that share some point of commonality. For example, teenagers who share the same taste in clothing, music, and other common interests. Other factors that can lead individuals to seek out groups include pop culture interests, shared goals, socioeconomic status, and religious beliefs.
People often present themselves in a particular way to belong to a specific social group and compare themselves to other members of the group to determine how well they fit in. This social comparison might lead an individual to adopt some of the same behaviours and attitudes of the group’s most prominent members to gain greater acceptance whilst conforming their behaviour.
The need to belong prompts and motivates us to seek out stable connections and relationships with others. Studies have found a positive link between a sense of belonging and greater happiness and overall well-being, as well as an overall reduction in mental health outcomes.
There are steps you can take to increase a sense of belonging; these do take effort. Seek out activities with people who have common interests and engage with others. Be patient, as it might take time to gain acceptance, attention, and support from the group. Practice unconditional self-acceptance and self-love. Focus on the similarities that connect you to others, remain non-judgemental, and be open to new ways of thinking.
Start your inner healing work to achieve a sense of belonging. Seek counselling to help you identify and become aware of behaviours, relationships, or mindsets that need changing. Remember you are worthy of love and acceptance. Belonging is feeling secure and supported when there is a sense of acceptance, inclusion, and sense of identity. It is when you can bring your authentic self to all areas of your life.
Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach)
Member of the Australian Counselling Association
Member of WPATH, AUSPATH
Senior marketing specialist, Rhonda Locke has worked for companies such as Australia Post, The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and Japan Airlines and has channelled that experience into launching her own business - Price Attack Hair and Beauty, in Toormina Gardens.
Melbourne’s harsh pandemic conditions were the catalyst for Rhonda’s sea change last year. “Lockdown made me realise it was time to revisit what was important to me, and my son and I moved here to start afresh,
including settling down with a long-term love and becoming part of this wonderful Coffs Coast community,” Rhonda said.
“I love hair and beauty and want women and men to have the opportunity to look and feel their best. With the benefit of bulk buying power, we stock the largest range of professional hair care products in the district, and we’ll have a hair and beauty salon instore.”
Price Attack Toormina Gardens is Now Open!
Describe the planning and design process.
Our first plan was to refurbish the original library. However, it became obvious that the existing facility was no longer fit for purpose given the changing role of libraries and the need to cater for a growing school population. It was decided to reconfigure and refurbish the existing library space in order to locate all staff to a more centralised, collaborative space. A team of staff visited a number of schools and public libraries both here and interstate. We gained valuable insights into what worked and what didn’t work in their spaces and transferred some of their ideas to our final design.
What are some of the features of the library? The ground floor houses our fiction collection, two seminar rooms and the staff work space. The first floor has three larger seminar rooms, a class teaching space, and a large open area with conference table, booth seating and comfortable lounges - something for everyone!
Our timber staircase is a major feature of the building. It doubles as an ampitheatre and is a great place to speak to a group of students before they go off in groups to continue their
work.
Our rooftop has already hosted several events including year assemblies, concerts and individual classes.
being used?
Our furniture is very flexible
games, completing homework or simply finding a space away from it all. Our diocesan Mario Kart eSport champions even used the library space leading up to their eSports competition.
Classes come in once a fortnight to read in comfortable surroundings. They elect to read either a hard copy book or an eBook or listen to an audiobook.
We have a number of online students studying subjects that we are not able to offer at our college. These include students studying Engineering Studies, Software Design and Development and in addition to our Japanese classes at school, we will have senior students studying French, Italian, German, Spanish and Korean online next year. These students have a dedicated space in our library for their lessons.
During break times you can find students studying, reading, playing chess, card or board
Do the students enjoy working in the library? As the build was progressing, students were asked about the furnishings they wanted in the library. Our furniture is very flexible and for the first couple of months the students rearranged the furniture to suit their needs and this informed our final floor plan. They didn’t want a traditional library setting but instead flexibility and access to technology. A number of digital screens around the library allow both students and staff to project and share their work with others. Judging by the numbers of students accessing our library each day, we would certainly say that our students are enjoying working in our new library spaces.
Coninued over...
and for the first couple of months the students rearranged the furniture to suit their needs and this informed our final floor plan.
The new spaces allow for theory and practical classes to be located side by side in a purpose built area of the College.
How do you envisage using the rooftop?
Our rooftop has only been open since early November. We have already used the space for music concerts, year group assemblies, morning breakfast, Extension History classes and reading groups.
We envisage next year that some sport classes like yoga and meditation will be held here. Our Drama teacher has said this is a fantastic space for monologue and group performance practice. The Science department is planning opportunities around astronomy and stargazing evenings as well as a large open space for some larger scale Physics experiments.
We have a BBQ and entertainment area which allows for various functions and hospitality events where our students can meet some of the required competencies in the VET courses and for social gatherings for
both staff and parents. Is the library design reflected throughout the whole school?
The Library space is part of a larger school plan and vision for contemporary learning spaces. As can be found in the new PDHPE precinct, the spaces encourage collaboration, problem solving and active use of learning spaces rather than passive rooms where the teacher ‘does all the work’. The glass walls allow for a more open feel and more importantly allow staff to learn and observe each other in order to continually improve practice. In addition to these new buildings, all existing general classes have been refurbished to allow for agile spaces and to encourage the deprivatisation of classrooms. These changes are all part of the Phase 2 building program at the College.
So as well as a new library the College has a new PDHPE precinct? Yes, stage 1 of the precinct is complete and has 3 new learning spaces that link to our covered
basketball courts, cricket nets and hockey fields. The new spaces allow for theory and practical classes to be located side by side in a purpose built area of the College. The second of the new PDHPE buildings which complete the precinct are almost finished and include a further two learning spaces, a new indoor and outdoor gym as well as a multi purpose external area to be used for spectator seating, outdoor concerts, presentations and alike.
The Science department is planning opportunities around astronomy and stargazing evenings as well as a large open space for some larger scale physics experiments.EDUCATION
The New Year has come and gone and it is a bit of a cultural habit to set some goals for the next 12 months. This article is designed to help you and your children take that step from wishes to reality.
You may have heard of the dinghy metaphor before when it comes to goal setting and getting results. To move that dinghy in the direction and with the speed you want to you need to use both the rudder and the oars. The rudder is your goal setting tool. It focuses on that target but it is nothing without the momentum or the pull of the oars (the system or that set of actions).
Some simplified examples are:
• If you’re a runner, your goal is to run a PB at the park 5k run at the end of Summer. Your system is your training schedule for the month using interval running techniques daily but also do a 5km run each week until the big day.
• If you are a student your goal is to move that “C” in Maths to a “B”. Your system is to get specific feedback from your teacher each lesson and then practice that one skill for 30 minutes that night.
In all these cases you are setting a defined goal that you wish to achieve but you are also breaking up into daily actions a system that can make progress towards that goal.
Goals are useful for setting the direction.
Systems are great for actually making progress. In fact, the primary benefit of having a goal is
that it tells you what sort of system you need to put in place. However, the system itself is what actually achieved the results.
There are many ways to develop goals and to create a system to focus improvement but I believe the first step is to articulate what those goals are and then to prioritise (be ruthless) your top 3. If you have too many more than 3 you are diluting your actions. From that step a system is required. You need to take time for your research here because that effort of “rowing” needs to yield results.
Research has shown that you are up to three times more likely to stick to your goals if you make a specific well researched plan for when, where, and how you will perform your behavioural change. These goals and this system need to be written down (on your phone, or on a piece of paper stuck to the bathroom mirror or in a journal that you read every day).
According to a 2009 study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, it takes 18 to 254 days for a person to form a new habit. That study also concluded that, on average, it takes 66 days for a new behaviour to become automatic. With that knowledge, you can create change using your systems and make them habitual within a couple of months. The last part of any goal setting is also to evaluate your progress. It is important to track your success towards that goal. Finally, I will mention the most commonly used acronym SMART. SMART (specific, measurable,
achievable, realistic and timely) these are a great way to set goals because the expectations are clear, and it is easy to visualise what success looks like.
What most goal-setting processes don’t take into account are the potential pitfalls. I will address these with some dot points as they are mostly self evident.
• Fear of success and/or failure (what if you actually attain your goal? What if you don’t?)
• Lack of understanding about the goal-setting process (is my goal clear, attainable and SMART?)
• Lack of commitment to the goal (Is this goal really in my top 3?)
• Inactivity (does binging another show on Netflix actually help me?)
• Analysis paralysis (action in your system more important than analysis of the measurables)
• Lack of a real destination (you need to commit to that goal. This is the first step!)
• Failing to plan (you need that system. Do your research and create the plan - it is the oars of the dinghy)
• Having too many goals (you will lose focus if you have too many)
• Feeling unworthy of the end result (you are worth it - the only person you can change is yourself)
• Lack of motivation to change (start your plan today!)
I challenge you to take that New Year’s resolution and move it to a goal and a system over the next two months and see where you finish up.
Teaching mathematics adds up for Holly Wedd. It is an equation in which factors of commitment, initiative, inquiry, flexibility and fun come together for a solution that engages her students and continues to propel her career.
That career is still in its fledgling stages, yet Holly's energy for teaching is a lesson in itself. As she says: “My goal as a teacher is to alter the way mathematics is viewed. I want to transform this perception that maths is a boring subject that only some people are good at, into the idea that it can be something students are excited to learn about and truly feel they understand."
A graduate of Southern Cross University's
Faculty of Education, Holly taught mathematics from 2018 at South Grafton High School before taking up the post of Head Teacher Mathematics at Orara High School.
At Grafton, she introduced innovative teaching methods through games, team-based learning and interactive techniques. Notable among them was an enrichment tutoring program aimed at students struggling with basic mathematical concepts. What began with two students soon expanded to five teachers and nearly thirty students in just two terms.
that is not impressive enough, Holly has just completed her Master of Education – in Student Wellbeing and School Leadership –again through Southern Cross University. While mathematics is the field in which Holly excels, her calling is teaching.
"When I decided on education, it wasn't maths that clicked with me as much as teaching in general," says Holly. "Initially I wanted to become a primary teacher. Then when I started to think more about the best way I might make a real difference as a teacher, I found myself drawn to secondary
If
My goal as a teacher is to alter the way mathematics is viewed. I want to transform this perception that maths is a boring subject that only some people are good at...
Holly Wedd is a transformative teacher. The Southern Cross University graduate is already internationally acknowledged for the ideas and innovation she brings to her mathematics students, which translate beyond the classroom.
classroom
education."
"Looking back at my high school years in Woolgoolga, I had some wonderful teachers. For maths, I remembered one who went all out to make it fun. He was inspiring and I still use his hands-on trigonometry exercises today. He taught beyond the textbook and that really connected with me. Now I apply that thinking to all of my teaching."
"Maths can be experimental and divergent. As much as the aim is to reach the correct solution, getting there can take you on several pathways. It is an exciting journey that is not always, or necessarily, set in stone in a
textbook. Maths can take you in different directions and that can be thrilling and also provide important lessons for life."
The many accolades Holly has received offer clear demonstration of the success of her approach to teaching. In 2019, she was named Young Alumnus of the Year at Southern Cross University. The same year brought international attention via a Learning Edge Teaching Practice Award at Google HQ in Sydney. This was a joint initiative between the NSW Department of Education and Teachers Mutual Bank in partnership with YouTube and Google.
In 2020, Holly won the Teachers Guild of NSW Early Career Award (Secondary School) and in 2021 she was named the Rising Star of the Year at the prestigious Australian Education Awards. This year she has been recognised as a 2022 Schools Plus and Commonwealth Bank Early Career Teaching Fellow and was named on the Educator’s 2022 Education Hot List.
For one so adept in the classroom, it seems strange to consider that Holly may never have pursued a teaching career. There was a time when the ski slopes occupied most of her attention.
Born in the UK, Holly was a baby when her parents migrated to Australia. Her childhood was unconventional to say the least.
"We travelled a lot," she says. "Mum and Dad wanted to work in the ski fields and so we followed the Winter and went back and forth to the US for many years. I could ski before I could walk and went on to become US National Standard Junior Skier until the family decided to come back to Australia fulltime."
Clearly, skiing's loss has been education's gain, with Holly at the vanguard of a new
generation of teachers applying nextgeneration teaching methods. Technology and the internet are the textbooks of today and they come with – mathematically speaking –plusses and minuses.
"At times the current generation has been caught between a rock and a hard place as education grappled with the transition from traditional teaching – the days of chalk and talk – to the teaching and learning opportunities created by these incredible technological resources," says Holly.
"However, the next generation will be the first to have grown up using technology wholly and solely. They are learners in the era of Zoom, of SMART projects. Their grasp of technology will be ingrained and education will need to reflect that."
Holly's embrace of the online environment, particularly via engaging instructional videos made for students and fellow teachers, has long been a staple of her teaching. It took on extra meaning during the disruption of the global pandemic.
“Whether in the classroom or teaching online, I implement hands-on activities which promote critical and creative thinking in my students," says Holly. "In covering both syllabus content and enhancing creative and collaborative practice, the goal is always to create a deep understanding and appreciation of the beauty of mathematics.”
And not just mathematics. Teaching in general, when done with heart and generosity, can also be beautiful. Holly embodies that.
“From the first time I walked into a classroom on my first prac., I’ve absolutely loved teaching and I fall more and more in love with it every day,” she says. “The best part is when you see a struggling kid finally ‘get it’ and it clicks for them. If that’s what gives you joy, then you should become a teacher.”
Learn more about studying Education at Southern Cross University.
The next generation will be the first to have grown up using technology, wholly and solely. They are learners in the era of Zoom, of SMART projects.
From the first time I walked into a
on my first prac., I’ve absolutely loved teaching and I fall more and more in love with it every day...
Hi Karly. Tell us a bit about your role at Orara High School? Hi, I’ve been working at Orara High School since the start of Term 4 of 2015.
I started as what was called a Norta Norta Tutor for junior students, it is now known as a Student Learning Support Officer. In 2018, I took on the position as Relieving Aboriginal Education Officer for 7 months until it was filled. This was a great opportunity for me to take on a higher role and increase my skills and knowledge. Throughout 2020 I started to assist with running the Balmuun Jindas
Academy.
This was yet another great opportunity for me to expand my knowledge. At the beginning of Term 4 2021 I again stepped up into the role of Relieving Aboriginal Education Officer and am still currently in that position. I work alongside some really inspiring people in my team and I honestly believe it is the strongest team in the Coffs Harbour area, I don’t know what I would do without them.
What are some of the duties and responsibilities of an Aboriginal Education Officer? As an Aboriginal Education Officer it is my duty to provide assistance to staff, Aboriginal students and their families to
support improved learning, welfare and wellbeing outcomes. Not only do I, but all of my colleagues in the Aboriginal Education Team at Orara High School, work tirelessly to ensure that our students are well supported in and out of classes.
What made you want to take on this role? I grew up in the same way as the majority of our Aboriginal students. I come from a big family and I was the first in my family to complete their HSC and graduate. Throughout my senior years of high school I had the first-hand experience of the reality that our students face. Shame. I was too ashamed
put
hand up in class and ask for help.
to
my
Karly Morris is the Relieving Aboriginal Education Officer at Orara High School and a proud Gumbaynggirr, Dunghutti, and Wiradjuri woman. She brings so much care and enthusiasm to her work, she is passionate about education and giving all her students the encouragement and support they need to achieve their full potential.
Just like most of our Indigenous students, I am a visual, hands-on learner so I struggled to understand a lot of what the teacher was saying or writing on the board. Instead of putting my hand up to ask for help, I would just pretend to know what I was doing. I was a smart kid so a lot of the time I figured out a way to do the work. So I guess you could say that my high school experience inspired me to take on this role. I wanted to be someone that could encourage and support students while being a role model for them to look up to. How long have you been involved in
education and what made you want to follow this career path? I graduated year 12 in 2013 at Orara High School and never thought that I would ever step foot in a school again. In 2014 and some of 2015 I was doing a bit of work assisting with running an Indigenous Program with Aboriginal Family Wellbeing Service in primary schools and I absolutely loved it. I first started working at Orara High School in Term 4 of 2015 and have been here ever since. Once I started I knew I was in the right career. It was like, right place, right time. From there I kind of just knew that this was a career I wanted to be in forever.
What do you enjoy about the work you’re doing at the moment? What I enjoy the most would have to be seeing students reach their full potential. A lot of the time they lack
confidence in themselves. They don’t realize how smart they are and how much they could achieve if they put their minds to it. It’s such a heartwarming feeling to see them succeed and to be proud of what they accomplished, whether it be something small or big.
I don’t just work for the Department of Education, I work for the students and for our old people that fought so hard for us to have the right to get the education they were denied.
What do you hope the kids get out of having you around? I hope that the kids I work with see me as a role model and someone to help them with anything they need. I feel like I can get on their level of understanding and hopefully my presence shows them they can overcome the barriers causing them to not fully succeed in their own ways. I hope one day when they’re older they look back on their high school years and say ‘having Karly around pushed me to do better, to be better and to be a better role model for anyone and everyone that needs someone to look up to’. Most of all I hope that they understand that they’ve always had it in them to achieve greatness, they just needed that encouragement and reminding of just how inspiring they can be.
What have been some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of what you do? Just like all jobs, there are challenges that can be very tough. However I work with such a strong team that we tend to overcome just about every obstacle that we are faced with. There are a lot of positives about working in my role and everyday I see students achieve all types of goals, big and small. However, I think the most rewarding aspect of what I do would have to be seeing students succeed.
Do you have any plans or goals in your work for the year ahead? There are definitely some big things planned for the year ahead. Along with my team we are planning on bringing a lot more cultural opportunities into the school.
Most of all I hope that they understand that they’ve always had it in them to achieve greatness, they just needed that encouragement and reminding of just how inspiring they can be.
Originally based in Tamworth, Kobey completed a Hunter New England Health Traineeship in years 11 and 12. He completed his HSC but was surprised to learn he would not receive an ATAR.
A teacher linked him up with the University of Newcastle and after visiting the Wollotuka Institute, Kobey learned about his options, including the Yapug program.
Yapug is a free pathway program designed to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain the knowledge and skills for entry into university while immersing them in Indigenous knowledge, history and culture. Together with the Wollotuka Institute, Yapug provides students with foundational knowledge, embedded support, a range of social activities and guaranteed entry into an undergraduate degree on completion.
“I honestly feel if I went straight into an undergraduate degree, I probably would have failed due to the academic standards. Yapug gave me an understanding of what Uni really is”, said Kobey.
Located at both the Newcastle Callaghan and Central Coast Ourimbah campuses, the Wollotuka Institute provides an inclusive, culturally safe environment where students can come for support, advice, collaboration, and knowledgesharing. Their space is where students can connect with other students and community – a home away from home while studying at the University of Newcastle.
Kobey has now begun his degree in the Joint Medical Program to become a doctor and is enjoying the challenge. He wants to help inspire other Indigenous people to pursue their dreams, letting them know anything is possible. There’s a place for you at the University of Newcastle. To find out more about Wollotuka, Yapug and explore other programs available for 2023 visit www.newcastle.edu.au.
Pictured Kobey Potts, Yapug Pathway Program, Miroma Bunbilla, Currently studying the Joint Medical Program, Ma & Morley Scholar.
Kamilaroi man Kobey Potts always wanted to work in healthcare but after learning he was not eligible for an ATAR; he didn’t know how he would get there.
Hi Paul. You work in the Disability and Out Of Home Care sector, can you tell us a bit about why you chose this career path and how long you’ve been in the industry? I work at Pathfinders in Coffs Harbour where I work across various support areas such as disability and out of home care. I think social justice and supporting others is in my DNA. My parents also worked in this industry as do my sister and brother.
What is your current role and what does it involve? I’m deskbound at the moment, supporting staff in the migration from casual employment to permanent full time / part time employment. My employer, Pathfinders, believes that supporting and looking after their staff will greatly improve the way in which we provide the best care for our clients.
Having previously completed the Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability), you have recently undertaken some more study. Why did you decide to go ahead and do the Diploma in Community Services as well? The primary reason I undertook this study was that the course delivery was tailored for existing workers in the Community Services sector where our existing skills, experience and knowledge would be taken into consideration in the way we would be trained and assessed. I believed, and was correct, that my fellow students
Paul Hunt comes from a family dedicated to social justice and supporting others, with both his parents, himself and his brother and sister all having worked in the Disability and Out Of Home Care sector. He has recently undertaken some extra study at TAFE NSW to further his skills and broaden his knowledge which he believes will help prepare him for the rising need for community services workers in our area.
worked very well together in sharing their insights and experiences from their past work. How did you find going back to studying?
A little nervous at first, but my teachers, Dr Anderson and Trish Cahill are amazing educators who quickly made me feel comfortable and ready to study again. Their industry knowledge and passion for inspiring adults to learn is quite outstanding. I was impressed in the variety of the way TAFE conducts assessments; such as role plays, presentations, individual and group reports.
My employer, Pathfinders, believes that supporting and looking after their staff will greatly improve the way in which we provide the best care for our clients.
How do you feel the extra study has helped you at work? The study gave me extra skills, more confidence and I developed a good network of like-minded people. The course also challenged me to evaluate some of my own values and I also gained self-reflective skills and discernment skills.
There is a big demand for Community Service workers in our area at the moment, what would you say to those thinking of moving into this field?
Jump in and give it a go. Many people have transferable skills such as communication, project management, advocacy and personal support. They are examples of the skills needed in the Disability and Out of Home Support sectors. There are many rewarding jobs on the Coffs Coast and the demand will only grow.
What do you enjoy most about your
work? I work with a great bunch of people who are passionate about supporting and assisting the lives of those marginalized, particularly those from broken homes and Indigenous families. What are your plans or goals for the year ahead? Help my local church and SVDP address social housing issues on the Coffs Coast and focus more on the Mental Health side of Community Services.
The course also challenged me to evaluate some of my own values and I also gained selfreflective skills and discernment skills.
hen did you first start at Nippers and what made you want to get into it? I first started Nippers when I was 5 years old. I wanted to get into it to learn about how to be safe in the ocean.
What club are you involved with here on the Coffs Coast and how often do you train? I am a member of Sawtell Surf Life
WSaving Club and I train for Nippers six times per week, as well as swimming squads three times per week. Training for Nippers involves ocean swimming and board skills, endurance, as well as running and gym sessions.
What do you love most about Nippers? I love competing for my club both in individual events and also competing as part of a team. I also enjoy racing against my friends from different clubs up and down the coast. Nippers is also teaching me all about beach safety which is really great.
What’s the vibe like through summer at the Club? It is very chill at the club, with a fun vibe and lots of people hanging out. We still train during the school holidays, so it is great to be there after training with friends and family all there at the same time.
Can you tell us a bit about what activities you do at Nippers for those that aren’t familiar? We do lots of different activities at Nippers and at Nipper Carnivals. At Nippers we are learning about how to administer first aid, how to use radios, and perform CPR. We
are also learning about how to spot where rip currents are located, and safe places to enter the ocean.
At Nipper Carnivals
there are lots of events that we race in, both in the water and on the beach. My favourite events are the water ones, especially the Ironperson. The Ironperson is a race where we do an ocean swim of a minimum of 280m, followed by a board leg of a minimum of 362m. We then have to run up the beach
to finish between a set of flags, which can sometimes be the hardest part.
I also like the individual swim and board, and board rescue events. The swim is around a stringline of cans out in the ocean, and we try to catch a body surfing wave into the shore from as far out the back as we can. For the board we go around an apex, which is shaped a bit like a triangle. Once we are on our way back in, we are always trying to catch a wave! We then have to run up the beach with our board to finish. Sometimes there will be lots of us all running up the beach together for a sprint finish.
The board rescue is a team event where most of the time I do the swim leg out to a floating coloured can. I put my hand up to be rescued and my teammate paddles out on their board to rescue me. We have to then catch a wave on the board together back to shore. It is really fun and the bigger the wave the better! There are also swim team and board relay events which are great to compete in with my teammates. There are beach events too, where we compete in flags and beach sprints.
What is your favourite thing about going to competitions and competing with other clubs? One of my favourite things about going to competitions and competing with other clubs is that you make lots of friends. Not only do you get to know the people in your own club better, but you meet kids from all over the NSW Coast. I now know kids from
everywhere from the South Coast to the Far North Coast that I meet regularly over the season at different competitions. Our Branch Carnivals are also great fun because you get to compete with the other Nippers in our area. You are competing pretty regularly. Can you tell us a bit about some of the comps you have been involved in recently or have coming up? I have recently competed at Interbranch Championships at Shelly Beach, where I represented North Coast Branch in all the water events. I also have the NSW Country Championship in January, followed by State Age Championships in February and then the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships in Western Australia in March. The season will be in full swing. How have you been going lately in your events? At the last NSW Country Championships I won five medals including four individual events which were the swim, board, ironperson and 1 km beach run. My team also came second in the board rescue. Last season at NSW State Championships I came sixth in the individual swim and twelfth in the Ironperson.
What do you feel is your biggest achievement to date in the sport? My biggest achievement to date in surf sports was winning the ‘Triple Crown’ at NSW Country Championships 2022. The Triple Crown is when you come first in all three water events at a competition, so the swim, board and Ironperson.
What are some of your goals for the future? My goals for the future are to compete in the Nutri Grain IronMan series. This is where the top twenty Ironmen in the country compete in six rounds at different beaches. My goal is also to become a volunteer lifesaver so I can put all my training
to use for the community.
My biggest achievement to date in surf sports was winning THE ‘TRIPLE CROWN’ AT NSW COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
. THE TRIPLE CROWN IS WHEN YOU COME FIRST all three water events at a competition, so the swim, board and ironperson.
Saul Easman has been participating in Nippers at Sawtell SLSC since he was 5 years old and his enthusiasm and dedication is only growing as he continues to train and compete. He is absolutely killing it at comps up and down the coast and one day hopes to compete in the Nutri Grain IronMan series.
Meet the Coffs Coast’s most engaging locals and make holiday memories to last a lifetime. We asked Bookings Supervisor, Tayah, what’s new at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park and what visitors can expect to see and do during these summer holidays. And in case you were wondering, A is for Aria, a new Little Blue Penguin and Z is for Zippy, a Bottle-nosed Dolphin whose mother was named Buttons!
Hi,Tayah. The team must be getting excited about the Summer holidays. Are there some new animals at the park?
Yes! We're ready and have some exciting new things to share with visitors. We're running two sessions, 9-12 and 12.30-3.30, with all the activities on the program repeated so guests can choose to visit in the morning or the afternoon. Other animal experiences run at specific times during the day, and visitors must book these separately.
It's been a big year for babies. Miki, an Australian Sea Lion pup, was born in July. He's five months old and as cute as a button. He makes an appearance in the park most days as he adjusts to visitors, but sometimes he's not up for socialising and wants to sleep! Just like a human baby!
Last September, we welcomed four Little Blue Penguin chicks two boys, Levi and Shrek and two girls, Evy and Aria! They're fully grown now but still super cute and curious. Our colony has 18 penguins now, so visitors can have loads of fun choosing their favourites. Can visitors feed the penguins?
Yes! During the Meet the
Penguin experience, at least one guest in the group can feed a penguin. People need to be aware, though, that just like humans, sometimes they won't eat, especially in hot weather, because they prefer to be swimming!
In this beach-side interaction, guests learn about Little Blue Penguins' breeding, nesting, and unique personalities while getting close to some of the funniest animals in the park. We hear that Coral the Conservation Mermaid is returning. Is that true?
Sure is! Coral returns for an exclusive and limited time from Tuesday, 27th December, to Sunday, 15th January. We highly recommend people book early to secure their preferred date. She's been incredibly popular, and seeing the delight on the kids' faces when they first spot her swimming with a dolphin or sea lion is priceless! We're about teaching and inspiring people to learn more about marine conservation and protecting our oceans for all marine wildlife. Coral, the Conservation Mermaid, is a magical addition to our program. We know many parents are bringing their kids these holidays to see Coral.
During the 'Meet the Mermaid' experience, Coral will share vital conservation messages, and kids can share a unique photo with her. Parents are welcome to take pictures as well.
For an even more enchanting experience, it's hard to beat the 'Mermaid Splash', where kids aged three or more can swim with Coral. Children discover what it's like to be a mermaid as they splash about with Coral in shallow water. The children and parents are mesmerised!
What other animals can visitors meet?
A general entry ticket allows visitors to get close to Bottle-Nosed Dolphins, Australian Sea Lions, Little Blue Penguins and Freshwater Turtles. They can also tour our marine rescue and rehab facility and see the sick and injured Sea Turtles in our care. Our Marine Conservation Park is the only place in Australia where guests can enjoy such a close encounter with marine animals. There's an educational marine animal talk or activity happening every half hour, and our main Dolphin Dreamtime and Sea Lions live presentation is on twice daily during the holidays.
What happens in a 'Meet the Animal' encounter?
These are beautiful experiences that most people will only enjoy once in their lifetime. They're all on dry land, and guests can Meet a Penguin, Sea Lion and Dolphin. Some families book all encounters during their visit. Typically, a marine animal carer will chat with the group
about the animal's history, anatomy, habits and diet and explain the threats in the wild and what we can do to protect them.
Tell us more about 'Meet the Dolphin'.
This experience is perfect for guests who want to get close to a dolphin without getting wet; well, not too wet, sometimes guests do get splashed! Located by the pool or lagoon, guests learn about the Dolphin's unique anatomy and how and why we train them. There's also time to play some interactive enrichment games and take photos. Zippy is one of the delightful dolphins that guests may meet.
What can visitors expect from a "Meet the Seal" experience?
Only a few thousand Australian Sea Lions are left in the world, making them endangered. In this unique experience, guests learn about the difference between seals and sea lions, interact with a playful sea lion and become inspired to help protect them. We hear kids love the ACE experience. What's ACE about it?
If anyone reading this has a budding marine scientist in their family, this experience will
make their holiday! It's a brilliant birthday present idea too. The animal carer experience, "ACE" for short, is ideal for kids aged eight to sixteen interested in marine animals and conservation. For three hours every Wednesday and Sunday during the holidays, participants experience a taste of life as a Marine Animal Carer. It's a hands-on, educational and fun program that includes caring for some of our marine animals and helping to nurture and feed the sick wildlife in our dedicated rehabilitation hospital. Kids get treated as VIPs with special seating at our main marine animal presentation and a private park tour. It's excellent value at $275 per child, including lunch in our Creekside Café. With a maximum of 10 kids, there are plenty of opportunities to get close to our marine animals and actively participate. Tayah, do you have a favourite experience?
I enjoy the Back of House Tours. A marine team member takes visitors behind the scenes to see how and why we train, enrich and care for our animals. It's a one-hour intimate experience and a must-do for anyone interested in learning more about
marine animal care and conservation. This hands-on tour is perfect for all ages, but adults must accompany children under 10. Guests can assist our team in an animal training session, participate in an interactive game and help feed some animals. I did this tour soon after I started working at the park, and it's still one of my favourite experiences. Any top tips for visitors?
We're expecting a busy Summer and highly recommend that people plan and book ahead. Come for breakfast in our Creekside Café and then stay for the morning session and perhaps do an animal experience in the afternoon. Or, enjoy an animal experience in the morning, have lunch in the café and then stay for the afternoon session. We have plenty of covered spaces, and the roofed grandstand for our main presentation provides all-weather protection. And for families on a budget, we offer beautiful garden spaces for a BYO picnic and a park overlooking Coffs Creek next door. Happy holidays we hope to welcome you soon!
To book, go to dolphinmarineconservation.com.au or call 02 6659 1900.
CAN ASSIST OUR TEAM IN AN ANIMAL TRAINING SESSION, PARTICIPATE IN AN INTERACTIVE GAME AND HELP FEED SOME ANIMALS.
Jaime Cowling is the owner of new local business Cryo Recovery Coffs. She has discovered the benefits of Cryotherapy first hand over the past couple of years after dealing with chronic pain and sleeplessness after a car accident, and now she wants to make it available to those on the Coffs Coast!
Hi Jaime, would you like to tell us a little about yourself? My name is Jaime Cowling, the owner of Cryo Recovery Coffs. I’m a mother of 4 (Charlie 14, Maddy 12, Blayke 6, Harvie 4) and a wife to an amazing man, Aaron!
We have other business ventures together, and our latest addition is something I truly believe in and I know is so beneficial for both physical and mental health and well-beingCryotherapy.
What is Cryo and what made you decide on bringing it to Coffs Harbour? It’s something I’ve used myself for treating my own health matters. Cryo is short for Cryotherapy. It’s “cold therapy” (you can find out more by going to our social media pages).
In 2014 I was in a major car accident. I was in my car, stationary at road works and when I looked in my rearview mirror I noticed the
car behind me going extremely fast, the driver wasn’t watching the road, she was turned to the back giving her baby a bottle. The car hit me at 80 kmh! It was pretty hectic, I was pulled from the car in extreme pain, put into an ambulance and taken to the hospital.
On the way to the hospital the ambulance officers told me my shoulder was dislocated and they were going to have put it back in –which they did and it caused so much pain.
Over the next 7 years I had multiple operations, my right shoulder is held together with metal rods, screws, and a band; I had to have prolapse surgery as on impact my uterus collapsed; I had back
surgery; and multiple hernias repaired which then led into infections that nearly killed me.
For years after that I was reliant on pain medication, sleeping medication, and I was always full of anxiety whenever I was in the car. Fast forward to the end of 2021. I was in the Gold Coast and I was walking past a shop that had a Cryotherapy machine and advertised these benefits that really seemed to hit home with me and what I have been looking for. I went in and asked so many questions, it was so interesting. I didn’t go in that day, I had to mentally prepare myself to walk into something so cold (I don’t like the cold. Give me sun, warmth and a tan anyday). Anyway the next day I went back, I got myself
As I was walking away from the shop I felt excited, I was giggling like a school girl - my insides were excited. That day honestly changed my life.
mentally prepared, listened to the safety instructions, signed all the forms and got into the machine. Only I didn’t last long, this Cryotherapy machine was a fully enclosed chamber and I had to jump out after 60 seconds as I couldn’t see anything but white and all fears were taking over my mind. I calmed down and jumped back in, sang along with the music, danced around to keep distracted and then my time was up. I thanked the ladies and left.
As I was walking away from the shop I felt excited, I was giggling like a school girl - my insides were excited. That day honestly changed my life.
So how often would you go and have a session of Cryotherapy? Unfortunately I was only able to do Cryotherapy when I travelled because there was no known place closer. But each time I went to Qld that’s what I did - I would tell my husband “alright babe I’m off to go stand in the freezer“ – sounds so strange that something like that would make me feel so incredibly good!
What was it that you felt Cryotherapy helped you with? Pain relief, mental health
and sleep. They’re my 3 biggest things I’ve absolutely seen improve since persisting with Cryotherapy.
It is said that Cryotherapy helps build your immune system. I can only be a testament to that in a way where earlier this year we were going on our first family holiday since my youngest was born who is now almost 5 , Harvie being in daycare he brought gastro along for the trip. My husband and all 4 kids dropped like flies, I had never seen my husband and 13 year old so sick with gastro. I dodged it. It took me a few weeks and hours of research to realise that potentially I didn’t get it because on that trip I went and had a Cryotherapy session. I became more and more addicted to researching Cryotherapy. I took more quick trips to Queensland as I wanted to feel more of the benefits. I was off pain medication, sleeping medication and I was happier than I had ever been before. So how did this turn from being something that you had yourself, to something that you now provide? A couple of months ago now, Aaron and
I were laying down and I turned to him and said “babe can we please buy a Cryotherapy machine”? Aaron had never tried Cryotherapy, he had only listened to me about how amazing it was but he could see that his wife who was on medication all day every day was no longer taking anything for pain or sleep. To him, there was no doubt about the validity of the physical and mental benefits.
Aaron agreed and a few months later we had been given the opportunity to buy our own machine, better yet we were able to become a mobile service and have it all put into a functional trailer to work out of. The team who sold it to us were brilliant with their training and ongoing service. This company is worldwide and our latest updates and training came from Finland.
The whole process has happened very smoothly and flowed so well like it was just meant to be. I’m so glad we can bring this service to the Coffs Harbour Region. Wow, that’s great news! Where can people go to find you and your Cryotherapy business? We are mobile so we go to events and can run sessions from almost anywhere. Look us up on Instagram or Facebook – search for Cryo Recovery Coffs and go from there – I can’t wait for you to try it!
Thanks Jamie.
I would tell my husband “alright babe I’m off to go stand in the freezer“ – sounds so strange that something like that would make me feel so incredibly good!
Hey Michael, you have spent most of your life amongst the trees as an arborist and landscaper. Tell us where it all began? It all began with my Mum. She’s a passionate bush regenerator and has spent 40 years clearing weeds and planting natives on the rural property where I was raised and she passed that passion onto me. During school I did a bit of gardening for neighbours then got my first proper job at a local flower nursery. From there I did an apprenticeship in Horticulture and decided to specialise in Arboriculture.
Tell us how Treehouse Arboriculture came about? After school I moved to Sydney for nearly 20 years and worked in a wide range of jobs including retail nursery, landscape construction and maintenance, arboricultural consultancy and finally as a Tree Management Officer for the City of Sydney. When the country boy in me won out and I moved back to the Mid North
Coast, I decided to put all my experience into opening my own business.
The name is recognition of the fact that trees are houses for the wildlife we share our environment with. One of my goals is to help people understand that there’s more to trees than just hazards and nuisance. What has made you so passionate about the preservation of our natural environment and it’s inhabitants?
Australians are blessed with a unique set of flora and fauna, but it’s uniqueness also makes it highly vulnerable to the impacts of human activity. By trying to impose European practices of horticulture and agriculture here we have done immeasurable damage. This damage is what drives my passion to try and influence some attitudes and practices towards more custodial perspectives, like those employed traditionally by First Nations Australians. We typically think of an Arborist as someone who cuts down and removes trees. How does your philosophy differ from the norm? Many arborists join the
industry as unskilled labourers and work up from there, whereas I joined the industry because I love trees. While it can be a bit upsetting when large trees are removed, there’s usually a good reason for it.
The industry has come a long way in the last 20 years. Rising temperatures have driven home the importance of shade –especially in urban areas, and the industry is starting to reflect that by prioritising the retention and management of large and mature trees, rather than their removal.
As an arborist you have to be part daredevil. How do you deal with the big climbs?
These days I deal with it by keeping my feet on the ground and sending someone younger and nimbler up the tree, or I hire a cherry picker. I never was much of a climber, but I never really wanted to be either. It takes a special kind of person to be a good climber, generally one that sees thrill where others see risk.
What's your personal favourite part of what you do? I have excellent mentors
Many people would think of an arborist as someone that simply removes trees, but Michael Sullings is passionate about educating people on the importance of our trees and the wildlife they house. When he does remove a tree he plants a native tree elsewhere to replace it.
who’ve taught me that to be an arborist is to be an educator, and that is my favourite aspect of the job. If I can help someone to see that their trees aren’t just dangerous or messy, but that they also provide all kinds of amenity for humans and wildlife, then I’m satisfied.
As my hero Sir David Attenborough says, “No one will protect what they don't care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced.” If I can help improve people’s experience and understanding of trees, hopefully they will be more inclined to protect them, and by extension the critters they house.
You also do quite a bit of consulting for others on protecting the local nature and wildlife. What do you advise on?
I recommend locally indigenous plant and tree species for use in landscaping, as these species are better suited to our climate and soils, and because they provide natural food sources for our native wildlife. I also make recommendations that will suit the client’s desires, such as edibility, reduced maintenance, or bushfire resistance and resilience.
I have lots of experience with ‘Environmental Arboriculture’, which is a newer aspect of Arboriculture that focuses on enhancing arboreal habitat, in particular the installation of artificial nest hollows (i.e. hollows that are bored into trunks and branches) that are customised to suit certain species of wildlife including cockatoos, parrots, owls, possums, gliders, and many more. I also make customised nest boxes, carved out of solid hardwood logs, which are then installed into trees. All in all, I try to provide advice from a holistic ecological perspective that recognises humans are part of the
environment rather than separate to it. Tell us about your own pledge to plant an indigenous tree after every job you complete and how did that come about? As you mentioned earlier, people generally see Arborists as people that remove trees. I’m trying to buck that trend and give something back. Besides that, I’ve just always loved planting trees and coming past years later to see their progress. What would be your personal message to others here on the Coffs Coast on some simple things they can do for the protection of our nature and animals.
If I had to choose just one it would be to consider ‘connectivity’ – the concept of designing our gardens, and urban environments more broadly, so that wildlife can move around without undue exposure. Connectivity is probably best recognised in the form of ‘wildlife corridors’ or ‘landscape corridors’, but it also has a more localised function in that it enables animals to move between areas of vegetation, and to get off the ground and into the relative safety of tree canopies. Connectivity enables animals to search for food and mates over broader areas without being vulnerable to car strike or attack from domestic pets.
Thanks Michael.
If I can help improve people’s experience and understanding of trees, hopefully they will be more inclined to protect them, and by extension the critters they house.
This year, pay more attention to how your older parents are coping and start family conversations to develop a plan for future care and support.
You may have been busy through the year and not noticed the small things. But how well parents are coping may become more obvious when you have time to catch up with family over the festive season.
You might not want to face that your parents are getting older and may need help. If you are the older person, asking for help does not have to be the start of a slippery slope. Rather, it might be the first step to having greater control over your future independence and reduce some of the daily strain on yourself and other family members. It might be time for a family meeting.
Planning is the key, and planning early gives the best outcomes.
Retirement plans should consider how to manage the frailty risk that might be experienced in the later stages of retirement. Bringing family into the conversation may
help to minimise conflicts within your family and help everyone be comfortable with decisions that need to be made.
Families getting together at Christmas, might offer one of the rare opportunities within a busy year to hold a family meeting. For the older parent, this offers the chance to make yourself heard and express your wishes. For the children, it can help to remove uncertainty and share the responsibilities. These discussions are more effective if they are started early, while parents are still able to maintain control and independence. If thought of this discussion fills you with dread, we can offer support and advice. We inject a neutral voice and experience into what can be an emotional discussion.
• Be observant for signs that parents may not be coping
• Compare observations with other family members
• Talk to your parents about their future plans, concerns and living arrangement options
• Start researching aged care options (including home care) and understand the costs
• Check that enduring power of attorney documents and wills are in place and still relevant – seek legal advice to review and update documents
• And, if care is needed now, contact myagedcare.gov.au to arrange an assessment.
If you would like to arrange a meeting to find out how I might help yours or a loved ones’ own position, call me on 0431 414 799 or email jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au.
This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232).
As an Accredited Aged Care ProfessionalTM I have helped many clients to make this choice. I help to find a choice that is affordable, as well as works best for the family and protects the value of the estate.
When your family gathers over the festive season, it might present an opportunity to start planning for future care needs.
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focus contributor.
If you have a mortgage, should you make extra repayments or would you be better off in the long run boosting your super? The answer is, it depends. Your personal circumstances, interest rates, tax and the investment outlook all need to be taken into consideration.
What to consider - Some of the things you should weigh up:Your age and years to retirement. The closer you are to retirement and the smaller your mortgage, the more sense it makes to prioritise super. Younger people with a big mortgage, dependent children, will need to wait until age 60 before accessing super. So better to pay down housing debt, perhaps building up investments outside super.
Your mortgage interest rate. This will depend on whether you have a fixed or variable rate, but both are on the rise. As a guide, the average variable mortgage interest rate is currently around 4.5 per cent so any money directed to your mortgage earns an effective return of around 4.5 per cent.
When interest rates were at historic lows, you could earn better returns from super
and other investments; but with interest rates rising, the pendulum is swinging back towards repaying the mortgage.
In the 10 years to 30 June 2022, super funds returned 8.1 per cent a year on average but fell 3.3 per cent in the final 12 months. In the short-term, financial markets can be volatile but the longer your investment horizon, the more time there is to ride out market fluctuations.
Contributions are taxed at 15 per cent going in, but this is likely to be less than your marginal tax rate if you salary sacrifice into super from your pre-tax income.
into retirement. As mortgage interest payments are not tax deductible for the family home (as opposed to investment properties), younger borrowers are often encouraged to pay off their mortgage as quickly as possible. But for those close to retirement, it may make sense to put extra savings into super and use their super to repay any outstanding mortgage debt after they retire.
Tax. Super is a concessionally taxed retirement savings vehicle, with tax on investment earnings of 15 per cent compared with tax at your marginal rate on investments outside super. Contributions are taxed at 15 per cent going in, but this is likely to be less than your marginal tax rate if you salary sacrifice into super from your pre-tax income.
Personal sense of security For many people there is an enormous sense of relief and security that comes with having a home fully paid for and being debt-free heading
All things considered. As you can see, working out how to get the most out of your savings is rarely simple and the calculations will be different for everyone. The best course of action will ultimately depend on your personal and financial goals.
Buying a home and saving for retirement are both long-term financial commitments that require regular review.
This is general information so you should seek the assistance of a financial advisor to discuss your personal circumstances.
United Pacific Engineering is a privately owned Australian Engineering Company providing innovative engineering solutions. The company moved to new premises in 2020 at Hamilton Drive Boambee NSW Australia. The move into these premises has greatly expanded the company’s capability to provide a greater range of engineering services. The facilities include over 7500 m² of workshop area serviced by high capacity cranes and 10,000 m² hardstand area.
Take us back to the beginning… What is the History of United Pacific Engineering and how have things changed since conception?
United Pacific Engineering was founded in 2009 as a new enterprise.
The original site was in Englands Road Boambee and the factory and workshop facilities had been established by “Isles Forge and Engineering “ who relocated to the site after moving from the location now known as the Bailey Centre.
Isles Forge had a strong history of servicing the local timber, mining and agricultural industries throughout the region. Their products included cranes, earthmoving equipment, timber milling plants and a whole host of specialist equipment which helped build the region.
Initially UPE had only a handful of staff, but has grown steadily and now boasts a strong and
skilful workforce that includes not only highly skilled tradesmen and apprentices but a Project Management and Engineering Team that boasts a diverse array of skills and experience.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and experience in this industry?
The Managing Director of United Pacific Engineering is John Fuller. John began his career as a Metallurgist at the BHP Newcastle Steelworks, before moving to Goninan where he held several roles in the Laboratory, Iron Foundry, Heavy Fabrication shop and Engineering office before settling into the role of “Welding Engineer”.
Moving around during his early career John has gained experience in a wide variety of technical, project and management roles across a broad range of heavy industry.
Originally John moved to Coffs Harbour to work for W.E. Smith Engineering as a Welding Engineer, during this time he and his family fell
in love with the area.
John then returned to Newcastle to continue his career moving into the frontline management in heavy engineering and fabrication.
The call of the beautiful Coffs Harbour region was too strong and after a couple of years John took an opportunity to return to the area with Boral Asphalt working in Senior Management roles for over 10 years.
John also has a unique understanding and passion for welding. Being somewhat of a welding geek, he holds significant qualifications in this field including International Welding Specialist, International Welding Inspector, Certified Pressure Equipment, Welding Supervisor, Certified Structural Steel Welding Supervisor.
John’s love of Welding and Engineering Fabrication finally drew him to establish United Pacific Engineering in 2009.
Who makes up your team and what are their roles?
Today the UPE Team has grown to include many talented individuals who work together to ensure that effective solutions are delivered to our customers.
Instrumental in the development of our team is Rob McComas who has been with us for approximately 10 years and brings a vast array of practical experience and problem solving skills to the team. His particular expertise is in the machining and fitting areas courtesy of his
trade background which began as an apprentice with Isles Forge and Engineering and includes many years in a supervisory role with WE Smith Engineering.
Bob’s experience is invaluable, his wealth of supervisory and hands-on experience in complex set out, high quality machining, fitting and testing make him a guiding light in our workshop.
broad range of heavy industry.
the CNC Plasma Cutting Machines as well as his normal roles in project management, design and drafting.
Our office and financial activities are managed by Kerrie who came to us shortly after we commenced operation and told John that “she thought she could help us run a pretty efficient office“ she was correct! Kerrie ensures that all the little things get done at the right times as well as sorting a lot of life’s little dramas for the boys in the shop.
Our Project Management team includes the following key staff:-
Jordan Helgeton who has a range of mechanical design experience in the mining industry including both below ground and mill projects. He also has experience in the Canadian Oilfields installing tanks and piping for oil leases as well as repair and servicing of bulk materials handling systems. Jordan has been in our team for several years and has been instrumental in the operating, maintenance and repair of
Tyler Kemp, with formal qualifications as a Mechatronics Engineer has been with us for approximately 1 year and his initial role was as Quality Manager for large projects. He has quickly moved into project management and is adding a valuable skill set to the team. He provides expertise to the adaptation and manufacture of equipment for both internal and client use.
James Morrison a formally qualified Mechanical Engineer with several years experience in project management. His special skill set is vehicle modification and structures design. He has recently joined us and adds strength to the overall project team.
Ben Price who is formally qualified as an International Welding Specialist and Also as Pressure Vessel Welding Supervisor has joined us this year, he adds further strength to our Welding Technical Credentials
We also have a small group of independent experienced engineers who provide mentoring and guidance for our team and are available to assist with challenges as they arise.
Continued over...
Moving around during his early career John has gained experience in a wide variety of technical, project and management roles across a
What type of services do you provide?
We make and repair almost anything!.
Heavy fabrication and conventional machining are our bread and butter.
We have equipment capacity rarely seen outside of large cities and industrial areas, but we also are able to do finer intricate works.
No job is too big or too small. Tell us about the advantages of the unique machinery you use.
With a maximum lift capacity of 125t within the workshop and multiple gantry cranes we can undertake quite large works.
The range and capacity of our equipment and the fact that it is all under one roof lets us efficiently undertake a full engineering adventure.
We can cut, form and weld steel plate 100mm thick, we can machine round components up to 3000 mm diameter and straight items many metres long.
What makes United Pacific Engineering different from other companies in the local area?
The strength and diversity of our team, our unique array of equipment, and our understanding of materials and welding technology, combine to give us a problem
solving ability second to none. We are not a simple fabrication shop, but a truly one stop engineering service, here in Coffs Harbour..
What is the best advice you can give to a prospective customer?
Get professional advice, ask all the “stupid” questions before you start the physical work, it’s much easier to fix things on paper! And the collective experience of a professional and experienced team can be a huge benefit!
Do you offer solutions for budgets of different sizes?
Certainly, we understand the value of things and will often advise and assist people to do a lot of work themselves in order to save money.
We also take care of the whole service, ensuring that correct parts, materials and expertise are used to provide a complete solution. If something is better provided by others we will recommend them.
Our normal workload includes simple items from cutting and selling small pieces of material for customers own projects, straightening bent beams or guards through to the manufacture of high quality process plant and equipment for large industry.
How has the local building and construction industry changed over the last few years?
The whole area has really developed and the traditional family based companies are being replaced with larger corporations
Get professional advice, ask all the “stupid” questions before you start the physical work, it’s much easier to fix things on paper!
often based in major centres and attracted by the size of individual projects.
The internet has also seen wider access to services from outside the area meaning that we no longer have to compete in a local sense but in a much wider field.
We have also benefited from this and our client base has grown and we now manufacture equipment for clients all over the country.
The upcoming Pacific Highway Project is one where we are capable of performing a large volume of the work but will need to compete with others from far and wide.
Tell us about the most challenging engineering projects you’ve worked on Over the years we have undertaken a wide
variety of challenges and each week there is something to test our skills, be it a broken machinery part or a piece of artwork there is always something new.
Currently we are nearing completion of a very challenging Project.
It involves some very complex fabrication work to build a set of 12 identical units which are basically very large steel “Dyson” type air filters for a mineral processing plant.
There are many parts to be cut and formed to complex shapes from 10 and 12mm thick steel plates.
This project was quoted during the COVID period and we decided to undertake 95% of the cutting and forming works in-house. The workmanship from our team has been exceptional and this project is one of the most interesting that we have undertaken as a team.
What are your plans for the future of
United Pacific Engineering?
The future plans are to continue to grow steadily and to ensure that the current facilities and expertise available are built upon to allow stable employment and locally available engineering skills and services well into the future.
How important is it to you to support local?
We are very much part of this community and want to continue to employ and train local staff but also provide opportunities for those with experience from other areas to settle here and increase our knowledge and skills base as we grow with the region.
How can we get in touch?
www.unitedpacificeng.com
02 6652 2066
The upcoming Pacific Highway Project is one where we are capable of performing a large volume of the work but will need to compete with others from far and wide.
The manufacturing plant and equipment are capable of handling large pressure vessel manufacturing, rolling of heavy wall barrels & fabrication of custom made welded beams. These manufacturing capabilities are only generally found in major cities or International corporations.
Our workshop team includes a healthy balance of highly skilled Craftsmen and Apprentices who provide the skills and enthusiasm to provide a “one stop” engineering service for our clients.
The company moved to new premises in 2020 at Hamilton Drive Boambee NSW Australia.
The move into these premises has greatly expanded the company’s capability to provide a greater range of engineering services.
The facilities include over 7500 m² of workshop area serviced by high capacity cranes and 10,000 m² hardstand area.
• Heavy pressing, rolling, fabrication and machining.
• Fabrication of heat exchangers & pressure vesselsIncluding installation.
• Onsite NATA approved mechanical & non-destructive testing facility.
• Manufacture and repair of plant and equipment for the; timber, earthmoving, construction, agriculture, recycling waste management, materials handling and mineral processing industries.
• Metallurgy and welding expertise – reclamation and repair of special steels, components and equipment for the earthmoving, mining and construction industries.
• Specialist Welding Services.
• Break down and emergency repairs.
We look forward to providing you with a full range of “Practical Engineering Services” and extend a warm invitation to please call and make an appointment to visit.
3 Hamilton Drive, Boambee NSW 2450 P.O. box 4122, Boambee, NSW 2450
Can you tell us a little bit about your business? Farm to Freezer is a family owned and operated business. We specialise in premium grade, free range, pasture fed beef and lamb as well as grass fed and finished young succulent and tender pork. All of our beef and pork comes from our farm alongside three other pork suppliers located west of Coffs Harbour. These farmers were specially selected as they carry the same core values as we do.
Our tender lamb is young and free and sourced from Cowra NSW. The butcher at Farm to Freezer is highly experienced with over 35 years in the field.
We deliver all of our fresh meat boxes from Yamba to Port Macquarie and surrounding locations, and can deliver to your work or home for your convenience. What’s your favourite part of the work you do? Interacting with our amazing customers who support us in delivering the highest quality products to our local families to enjoy.
We were lucky enough to be recently awarded the Best Butcher in a local radio station promotion. It was so lovely to be able to read and hear from our customers just how much they not only love our products but also appreciate our friendly and local service.
Who is your greatest influence in business? Our Head Butcher who has taught me everything I know. He has been a butcher for over 35 years and is also my grandfather. The passion he has for what he does is an inspiration.
While being in this industry can be quite male dominated, I think because we are a family owned business and I am interacting with our customers regularly, engaging with our clients helps deliver quality, personalised service as me and the team take the time to know our customers.
Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast? I’ve been lucky enough to be born and raised here on our farm in Newee Creek and now I get to bring up my son in such an amazing part of the world.
I love the Nambucca Valley and all of the
wonderful benefits we have living in such a great part of the Mid North Coast. While it’s fantastic being out on the farm, it’s also so great to have such beautiful beaches on our doorstep too. And I love what a friendly local community we have in this area. We don’t take for granted the loyalty and love we receive from our clients everyday.
What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Have a goal set and keep pushing because when you reach that goal the feeling is truly something amazing. Even though there will be hard times, keep going and let nothing defeat you. Women are generally quite a resilient bunch so I think this helps set us up for having the grit it takes to succeed in business, especially when tough times come along.
I also believe that when you build something you love and are passionate about, this will naturally push you to succeed.
Where can people find out more about your business?
farmtofreezer.com.au or our Facebook page.
Toscan Homes ended the year on a high note, delivering five executive townhouses as part of the huge Shoreline development.
The townhouses boast space, serenity and security, along with a host of benefits that come with being a part of the Shoreline community.
The huge three and four-bedroom homes are made for relaxed beachside living and were built using experienced and passionate local tradies.
Happy owner, David Ellis, says he and wife Maz are impressed with the quality of workmanship throughout their home.
“On taking possession, we found that the attention to detail during the build has given us a house with excellent finishes and without annoying defects,” he explains. “Thank you Toscan Homes.”
When David and Helen decided to add another dwelling to their Sawtell block, they needed a custom builder who could help realise their dreams of a Hamptonsstyle beach house. They also had to ensure that the new home complimented the existing house on the block.
“We chose Toscan Homes because we wanted a quality, local, custom builder with a good reputation,” explains David.
The end result is spectacular! Perched between the sea and vibrant bushland, their new home is bright, breezy and full of modern charm.
Open plan bathrooms using gloss subway Carpet Court tiles create a sense of space and light. And the kitchen is an entertainer’s dream, with a butler’s pantry and modern design that blurs the lines between the outside and in.
“Our favourite room is the open plan kitchen, dining and living room with its exposed
rafters and servery window,” says David. “It’s where we sit and look onto the rainforest at the rear of the property.”
The essence of the home is essentially ‘Modern Hamptons’ (a design style using natural and authentic textures, rather than the traditional Hamptons style of a washed-out, all-white colour palette). This cutting-edge style is taking off in Australia, with the blending of styles well suited to the natural textures and tones of the Australian landscape.
David and Helen are amazed with how well their vision came to fruition and give thanks to the skilful Toscan team who brought their
dream home to life.
“Our carpenter, Steve Clark was the best. He takes a lot of care and pride in his work,” says David. “The same goes for our plumber Mitch, our electrician Brodie and Nathan from G & A Cabinets.”
The couple found the building process to be a breeze and took in their stride the record breaking rains that threatened to derail the project.
“We got there in the end and are extremely happy,” says David. “It’s everything we’ve dreamed it would be and more.”
This Toscan built home is the epitome of sophisticated, casual coastal living
David and Helen are amazed with how well their vision came to fruition and give thanks to the skilful Toscan team who brought their dream home to life.
Nestled into a quiet corner of Mullaway, where the chattering of native birds is superseded only by the soothing sounds of nearby waves, sits Kim and Matt’s dream home.
A triumph for the couple and it’s builder, Toscan Homes, this stunning abode uses a bespoke mix of modern materials that work in perfect synchronicity.
For the exterior, the use of prestige hardwoods, coupled with the choice of black Colorbond®, work together to create a modern, industrial feel that retains warmth and personality. The flat roof is also carefully curated to create a soft, flowing feel across the exterior of the home.
The interior of the home is equally as thought out and impressive. It boasts stunning concrete burnished flooring, hand-crafted hardwood stairs and an open plan layout that offers, light, air and an abundance of space.
“We love the fact that our home isn’t a run of the mill house - it’s unique,” explains Kim and Matt.
“We wanted a family home that suited our personality, values and lifestyle - we wanted a home that represented us.”
Functionality was also a major factor in the planning of Kim and Matt’s home.
“Our house is not only aesthetically pleasing in design, but extremely functional and practical,” they explain. “It’s an easy living family home and we wouldn’t change a thing.”
This breathtaking build is a labour of love for the happy couple, who put much time and energy into ensuring their home was a perfect fit for the whole family.
The pair spent many hours researching and collating their favourite designs and materials, with Kim drawing rough sketches of the style
they wanted their home to be.
“Toscan Homes then put our myriad of jigsaw pieces together to create our spectacular home,” explain the pair.
“We still get so many positive comments about our house, and it’s been three years since the build.”
Today, the couple are still admiring and discovering new features of their home.
“We often comment on new aspects that we hadn’t noticed before, or reflect on the way it looks throughout the day - the way the shadows create a different perspective,” they enthuse.
We often comment on new aspects that we hadn’t noticed before, or reflect on the way it looks throughout the day - the way the shadows create a different perspective.
It’s hardly a surprise then that when Kim and Matt wanted to add a second dwelling on their property, Toscan Homes was their first port of call.
“We thought the studio would be a fantastic space for our two teenage sons,” they explain. “But life happens and we adapted the studio build into a work space for Kim.”
Kim runs a successful tutoring business from the studio and loves spending her working days in the new space.
“The end results are amazing and we couldn’t be happier,” says the couple. “You can’t tell
that the studio was an afterthought - it looks like it was a part of the original build.”
The studio has been purposefully designed to blend seamlessly with the main home. It uses a similar mix of materials to create an industrial, yet warm ambience. The external walls of the studio are a mix of Colorbond®, timber, cedar and blockwork. The internal walls are made of a natural concrete finish and the floor, just like the main home, is made from burnished concrete. The ceiling is truly stunning and was created using raw Blackbutt ply. It was custom made and locally
constructed in Grafton, shipped to Coffs Harbour and installed by the expert Toscan Homes team.
Kim and Matt adore their brand-new studio and were impressed with the professionalism of the Toscan team throughout the build, especially considering the project was hit by months of horrendous weather. They were amazed by how much the Toscan Homes team genuinely cared about their project and were invested in getting them the best results.
“All the tradies that were involved in our studio build were exceptional,” says Kim and Matt. “The tradies that we had obviously enjoy the trades they are in, because it’s evident in the quality of their workmanship.”
Shop 13, Sartos Centre, 9 GDT Seccombe Close, Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 2444 toscanhomes.com.au admin@toscanhomes.com.au toscanhomescoffs toscanh2450
At Sawtell Catholic Care it’s all about the mission. Our mission is to grow and sustain an inclusive community of Christian care. ‘We care’ is even our motto.
Thirty years of providing accommodation and services to the community we care for has seen Marian Grove, the flagship of our brand, setting a high standard for retirement living and Mater Christi residential care service recognised as a leading aged care provider in our region.
The continuum of care at Marian Grove really is always evolving, adapting to the needs of our residents as they change over time, sustaining their independence and enhancing their quality of life. Now it’s time to introduce our latest innovation and support for our community, The Link.
The former site of Cockbain’s Nursery on Hogbin Drive has been reinvigorated, becoming part of Marian Grove’s village precinct which affords our residents an exceptional lifestyle opportunity in their own backyard. This huge 3.6 acre garden offers our community a wonderful, unique outdoor space to walk, sit and relax, enjoy a coffee and a light meal at the café in the company of friends and family, or some solitude and reflection time if needed. The Link is here for our broader local community as well, as a space for gathering and social connection, intergenerational sharing and enjoyment, in addition to small functions and events.
In conjunction with Mental Health and National Gardening Week (October 10-14) we opened
the Link gates and invited the community to join us for a week of celebration filled with music, intergenerational art exhibitions, community, and fun.
The “official “opening ceremony took place on Tuesday 11 October at 10 am, with Master of Ceremonies Matt Digges introducing a Welcome to Country by Aunty Jenny Skinner, addresses from Sawtell Catholic Care CEO Michael Darragh and Ambassador for National Gardening Week George Hoad AM, with a blessing by Fr Michael Alcock, ably assisted ably by Zippy . A ribbon cutting ceremony followed with assistance from Sawtell Catholic Care Board Chairman David Robson and Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos and the event concluded with uplifting cultural dances and a smoking ceremony by the Giingan Dancers. Thanks also to everyone else who made the week so special, “The Shed Men” Coffs Harbour Men’s Shed Band, Louise and Wendy for their violin music at the cafe, Youngster Co for tech assistance, The Marian Grove Ukulele Group and The Sawtell Ukulele group.
The Link gardens and Cafe are now open, Monday to Saturday 8.30 am to 3 pm. We are pleased to announce that The Link Café is run
by fellow not-for-profit organisation the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation, already known to many locals for their Nyanggan Gapi Café at Sealy Lookout and catering business which invests back into the Coffs Harbour Gumbaynggirr community. We’re looking forward to a beautiful collaboration, giving diners great service in delightful surrounds.
If you’re thinking of retiring, why not take a look around Marian Grove and The Link?
Marian Grove has beautiful, newly refurbished villas available right now, with home options to suit every taste at prices to suit every budget.
Our upcoming promotion offers anyone who moves into our apartments $2000 towards their window coverings and 3 months waived maintenance fees up to the value of $1700. Our villas and townhouses are also eligible for the three months waived maintenance promotion. These beautiful residences are selling fast, so why not give us a call today and arrange for a visit with our friendly sales team? We’d love to hear from you.
Call us on 0490 522 596, email mariangrovesales@scca.net.au or visit our website at scca.net.au/independent
The Link is here for our broader local community as well, as a space for gathering and social connection...
As you can see in our photo, Sylvia and Sam are on the Medici adjustable bed. The base may be able to sit on your existing slatted bed frame, giving you the desired look and personal touch for your bedroom. Have you tried our 100% Tencel sheets, Moffee at 106.3 Triple M loves the luxurious feel of the silky sheets. Once tried
Currently available at Harvey Norman Coffs Harbour Bedding Store. Buy a set of Tencel Sheets either in King, Queen or Super king size and receive a BONUS Tencel quilt. Valued over $300.
Come in try Medici mattresses by Sleepmaker, feel the difference, experience zero-g, have a massage you won’t be disappointed. At the same time feel the luxurious Tencel sheets, you will be surprised of the quality and glamourous feel of Tencel, as Tencel is made from the bark of a eucalyptus tree. Tencel is eco friendly, bio degradable, great for hot sleepers, and asthmatics.
IN COFFS HARBOUR
How many purchasers buy the first property they see? Ask most agents and they will tell you it rarely happens. Most purchasers stay on agents’ books for weeks, months and even longer.
Purchasers really like to shop around, after all, the family home is the most important purchase most people ever make and they need to do their homework before they buy. The amount of time they spend shopping around reflects the amount of money invested. Purchasers shop not only to find their ideal home, but also to be really confident that the price they are paying is market value.
By the time purchasers are ready to make a commitment, they know exactly what their money will buy. That’s why sellers need to do the same amount of homework when deciding what price to advertise the property at in the first place. Pricing a property too high and “hoping” someone will come along just wastes time and potential purchasers. At any one time, the percentage of qualified purchasers (those with finance and enough market knowledge to commit themselves) is only the tip of the iceberg compared to those who have just started looking or are still trying to get a feel for what their money will buy. One of the most important aspects of shopping around for any product or service is comparing prices.
One of the reasons there is often a gap between what vendors and purchasers think a property is worth, is that vendors usually look
at the asking prices of properties similar to their own. Purchasers on the other hand compare selling prices.
The selling price reflects the market value of the property and while the asking price should include a negotiating factor to achieve the highest possible figure, overpricing will simply make purchasers lose interest.
It’s important not to underestimate the amount of homework a serious purchaser will have done before deciding to make an offer on your property. Qualified buyers know when prices are inflated and they tend to focus their interest where they can see value for money. Many vendors think that successful agents use aggressive or “pushy” selling techniques. They believe that an agent who uses such techniques will sell their property faster and for a higher price. But the reality is often far different. Purchasers frequently report that they dislike hype and they hate being pushed. Many purchasers who are put off by often well-intentioned “hype” make the decision not to carry out any further inspections with that agent.
After all, you can’t really bully someone into buying their single greatest asset. Home purchase is rather more significant than buying a pair of trousers or a new detergent. With so much at stake purchasers do their homework for weeks even months before committing themselves. They usually know down to the last light fitting what their money will buy. Pushy selling techniques are no substitute for a well
thought out marketing programme and could even lose a potential buyer.
Alienating purchasers is counter-productive and in some cases even leads to a property staying longer on the market than otherwise. When this happens there is a chance that the ultimate selling price will be lower. If the marketing programme is sound and the ground work has been thoroughly covered, a sale will result.
Correct pricing, attention to presentation of the property, professional and consistent exposure so that all the prospective purchasers in the price range are introduced to the property and its best features are just some of the aspects of a good marketing programme. A genuine empathy with the purchaser’s needs (as opposed to the make-a-sale-at-all-costs) will result in a win / win situation for everyone involved.
Many purchasers report that they have been “talked into” submitting an offer on a property when it was not the right property for them. Many such purchasers say they regretted their decision in the cold light of day and withdrew their offer, the agent’s energy would have been better spent in attracting a more suitable purchaser to the property.
The best agents don’t need to use pushy techniques. Their professionalism, superior marketing programs and local reputation are working and they have the quiet confidence and genuine enthusiasm that goes with success.
Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different floor you plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s sure to be a design single storey, granny flat to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existing block down your house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure we can bring your vision to life. to a new be vision
If you can dream it, we can build it.
Visit one of our stunning display homes today!
Moonee Beach Estate Beach 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10am-4pm Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 Phillip phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au
Sawtell Commons Estate 4 Angler Court, Bonville. Open Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm to Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 Tracey 499 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au
