Just a few minutes’ drive from the shoreline of beautiful Sandy Beach is where we meet Kellie Potts. Kellie lives on 30 acres of farmland with about half of her acreage dedicated to blueberry farming. I call by with my fruit obsessed nine-year-old son for whom the chance to wander through rows of blueberry bushes to find (and eat) the odd blueberry missed by the pickers that day was irresistible. 

Kellie’s two children, both high schoolers, are the fifth generation to live on the land upon which we stand. The original family farm of 140 acres was purchased by Kellie’s great-grandmother during the Depression (Kellie’s siblings reside on neighbouring properties). 

“Sentimentally, it’s a wonderful place to be,” she says. “I used to come here as a kid and spend time with my grandfather who farmed cattle. All I’ve ever loved is farming and I knew from a young age it was what I wanted to do. I completed my horticultural science degree right after school.” 

Kellie feels blessed to do what she does. “It’s hard work but it’s also very satisfying. I love being outside every day, working with the earth and farming biologically.”

A community of growers

Kellie is part of a co-operative of approximately 150 local blueberry growers. The growers of the Coffs Coast account for an estimated 80% of the nation’s blueberries so while Coffs Harbour may have traditionally been renowned for its bananas, many of those same landholders who once produced bananas have moved onto blueberries. As a result, there’s every chance that that delicious punnet of blueberries you pop into your trolley each week is from a local farm. 

I am curious to find out more about the co-op which is 100% farmer-owned. “We’re selling as one so we’re all in the same boat. I find everyone amazing and hard-working. We’re all committed to producing a high-quality product. We desire the post-harvest result to be that consumers enjoy beautiful fruit with a long shelf life. I genuinely want every farmer to be the best farmer they can be. I’m more than happy to share anything we find beneficial on our farm with other growers. The native bee workshop is a good example.”

Bees and blueberries

A few months ago, Kellie hosted a native bee workshop offering insight into a not-so-secret weapon she considers a game-changer. Many farmers use European bees to benefit their produce, but Kellie has found Australian native bees to be highly effective. “We’ve done a lot of work with Australian native bees and I just love them.” 

Pollination means that there’s a direct proportion between the number of times a bee visits the flower of the blueberry bush and how large the berry is. “Berry size is everything,” Kellie explains as she opens a blueberry so I can look closely, “Not just for flavour for also for cost-effectiveness as we’re paid for our berries by weight.” 

Seasons

Kellie has been producing blueberries for several years now and while she farms all year round, there are two peak periods. ‘Summer’ is short and sharp and yields more fruit (about 14kg per bush) and extends from mid-December to the end of January. 

Berries from the winter crop are picked over a longer period (now until November or so) but the yield is less; about 5-6kg per bush. Of course, market price and weather make for plenty of variables, but Kellie tries to adapt her farming practises to attain good results when prices are favourable. This is where her horticultural expertise and experience come into play.

Blueberry Pickers

Collectively, local blueberry farmers employ thousands of pickers each year who come to the Coffs Coast from all corners of the globe. Many return season after season, year after year. In peak periods Kellie may employ up to 60 pickers a day and she is pleased to provide a safe and positive working environment for them. 

“They’re a delightful bunch of young travellers and over the years we’ve established lovely relationships. I give everyone lollies throughout the day and a beer at the end of each working day to show them how much I appreciate their efforts. The job is hard, very labour intensive and it’s lovely to all kick back and unwind after a busy day of picking.” 

Branching out

Always one to try new things, Kellie is, quite literally, branching out having recently planted 250 seedlings of the Moringa tree. This species, also known as the Miracle Tree, is highly nutritious as has been used to treat malnutrition in third world countries. It may very well be the next big thing in ‘superfoods.’ 

“We love growing things alongside our blueberries that are great for the soul and in addition to the Moringa Tree we’ve introduced beautiful healthy produce such as garlic, turmeric and ginger.”

The Happy Farmer

Kellie’s passion for farming is evident and she describes feeling ‘privileged’ to be a farmer. However, she’s also quick to acknowledge the many challenges farmers face be it drought, fires, or financial hardship. 

“In my opinion, farmers need a different mindset. You often have to get up early, work late and there are some days you don’t get paid for the work you do but it’s hugely rewarding knowing you are producing food for people. I consider myself incredibly lucky to do what I do.” 

It’s dusk as we finish chatting and as Kellie wanders toward her thriving veggie garden to grab something fresh for dinner, my son’s smile is broad and his hands full of berries to snack on as we head home.

For more on Kellie, see the recent article in The Land or go to the Potts of Berries Facebook page.

Craving blueberries? See our recipes for chilled cheesecake and blueberry pancakes! 

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“I’ve never seen a year like this one and that’s after 24 years in business.”

It’s certainly shaping up to be a unique year for Mike and other tourism operators on the eastern seaboard. The bushfires significantly impacted tourism over summer, Jetty Dive’s busiest period for offshore diving trips and of course, COVID-19 is affecting the whale watching season just as it gets underway.

In mid-April, we brought you an article about it being a waiting game for local whale-watching specialists and while the wait is over, this season still looks very different to ever before.

The new normal for whale watching operators

Mike and his wife Deb will be running Jetty Dive as best they can within the new guidelines. Whale watching trips and swimming with whales’ tours are happening and guests will explore the stunning Solitary Islands Marine Park just as they always have. However, there will be fewer guests permitted on board.

Jetty Dive were initially advised to adhere to the same rules as indoor businesses which meant abiding by the four-square metre rule – a very limiting prospect for a business that choose to use small and speedy vessels to venture offshore.

Jetty Dive and other north coast operators put their case forward that, as an outdoor business specialising in whale watching, diving and snorkelling trips, the 1.5 metre rule of social distancing was more appropriate. Fortunately, on 30th May they were granted an exemption from the four-square metre rule.

This means that they can now carry eight individuals on a boat or up to 16 guests if people are part of a couple or from one family group, whilst still adhering to the 1.5 metre social distancing rule. In light of this, Mike will be offering a special family rate.

Mike is delighted by the news of an exemption and remains confident Jetty Dive will endure these challenges.

“Jetty Dive has been running for over 40 years and we’ve been at the helm since 1996 so of course we hope it’s not long before everything looks more like it used to. I’m sure all tourism-related business owners feel the same way.” 

If there is a silver lining for Mike and Deb in all this, it is timing. Autumn is their quietest time of the year, falling between what is usually a busy summer of diving and peak whale watching time through winter. 

June would normally see Mike and Deb counting down to a hectic school holiday period ahead when people flock to Coffs Harbour from all over Australia (and overseas) to enjoy sightings of the majestic humpback and other beautiful marine creatures. 

So what will the upcoming school holidays look like? “Well, that’s the million-dollar question,” says Mike. “I think people will be keen to travel as this is their first opportunity to do so. And with Queensland off-limits, Coffs and other towns of Northern NSW become the most tropical places to access for those in southern states.” 

There are still a lot of unknowns though, he is quick to add. “It’s hard to say whether more locals will book trips or if holidaymakers will be keen to head offshore. It’s difficult to gauge the popularity of whale watching and whale swims. We attract an older demographic too, so it will be interesting to see if they are mindful of being on a boat with others. I’m not sure what the perception will be. I understand and respect whatever people decide is right for them.” 

Swimming with whales 

For a few years now Jetty Dive has been one of the few operators on the North Coast able to run Swimming with Whales Tours. These non-intrusive, interactive encounters will commence in September and are described as a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. For more info on getting up close and personal with the gentle giants of the ocean, see here.

Job satisfaction

Mike would normally be one to say that his job never gets old. “It’s getting old this year”, he laughs. We get that. It’s hard to run a tourism business when there’s nobody here or when you’re limited by the number of guests in a boat.

Something that never changes is Mike and Deb’s passion for diving. They’ve always loved it and thoroughly enjoy teaching people to dive. And when it comes to whale watching and great experiences out in the open ocean, that too is pleasurable. “Sure,” Mike says, “By the end of whale season you get sick of the sound of your own voice but we feel privileged to share our knowledge and this beautiful part of the coast with others.” 

For more insight on Mike and the serenity the ocean brings him, read this lovely account from Destination Coffs Coast.  

Courses and overseas dive trips

For those interested in learning how to dive, you can do that right here with Open Water courses and many other specialty courses from Jetty Dive. You can even learn how to freedive!

As for holidays, guess where you’ll find Mike and Deb? Underwater of course. They spend their vacation time on dive trips in amazing locations. They had just returned from the Solomon Islands when our borders closed in late March. And 2020 was to be the year for Fiji, the Maldives and spectacular WWII wreck dives in Micronesia but these adventures will have to wait until 2021. Find out more on trips with Jetty Dive to some of the best diving destinations in the world.

Learn fascinating humpback facts and discover the best vantage points on the NSW North Coast for whale watching here.

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A 3am start is not everyone’s cup of tea but for Woolgoolga’s Danny Stewart it’s all part of the working day. Danny is a second-generation local fisherman and has been in business since the age of 18. 

With his father a commercial fisherman, Danny practically grew up on the water. He knew from a young age that he wanted to follow in his dad’s footsteps and after three decades on the job, he still loves what he does.  

Danny generally splits his business between fish trapping and lobster fishing (he also does some line fishing) and is one of about 40 fishermen involved with the Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-operative (CHFC).

The Co-op can be found in the heart of the Coffs Harbour International Marina and is the go-to spot for residents and holidaymakers alike seeking fresh, locally caught fish. The Co-op has been reflective of a vibrant working harbour for generations. 

For Danny, the arrangement with a Co-op is a win-win situation. He’s quick to acknowledge that being a commercial fisherman involves a lot more than just heading out to sea each day. There’s a business to run; boats to maintain and service, logbooks to complete, wages to pay, staff to manage…the list goes on but by selling his catches through the Co-op, Danny knows extra work and stress is removed. 

“If I had to market and sell my catches on top of what I do now, it would be much harder. Additionally, having a group of us means that we can pool our resources and pay a fair price for essentials like fuel, bait and ice.” 

Danny says it’s like any good relationship; you get back what you put in. “I really value being in the Co-op. When they’re doing well, the profits are returned to the fishermen, so everything comes full circle.” 

Danny runs two boats out of the marina and has had his stepson, Luke helping him on and off for several years. In time, his younger boy, Kyan (13) will also get more involved in the industry that has provided for both his father and grandfather. This is a source of tremendous pride for Danny. 

There’s no such thing as a typical day and Danny often works six or seven days a week. Whether a working day is seven or twelve hours long depends on many variables – conditions at sea, weather, travelling time etc. Danny likes to do his own thing to a certain degree and tends to venture a little further afield than Coffs, covering Wooli to Nambucca. 

“I want to get the most out of each day,” he says. “The best part of what I do is the job satisfaction; when you achieve what you set out to but like anything, commercial fishing has its downsides. I’ve had breakdowns, been in the water, lost boats, had a terrible run of catches and periods of financial difficulties. I’ve also had some close shaves along the way when, earlier on in my career, I took risks and headed out when I shouldn’t have. In this game you experience everything.” 

It’s important, he says, to be able to roll with the punches because for all its challenges there are also times when everything goes smoothly, and the different elements come together beautifully. “Nothing beats good weather, favourable ocean conditions, being in the right place at the right time and getting a great run of catches.” 

Best fish on the Coffs Coast?

The Coffs Coast is probably best known for its snapper, Danny tells me. It’s one of the main species he targets. He also says leatherjackets are about to come into season. “Leatherjackets are one of my favourites – they’re super tasty and fewer bones make them family-friendly.” 

He adds, “There are always plenty of prawns about and I try to deliver lobster all year and keep a steady supply coming in. Admittedly there are times of the year and conditions that are best for lobster, but I strive to always have it available at the Co-op.”

Coffs Harbour is in a unique position when it comes to its marine life. We’re blessed here with the Solitary Island Marine Park. The combination of warm waters from the Great Barrier Reef with cooler waters from down south results in a huge diversity of species. 

“I look at my business and our marine environment and know I’m lucky – we all are in this local industry. Some commercial fishermen around the world have so much more exposure to the ocean and are away for days or weeks on end. We can do our job and still be within a few hours of home.”

Sustainable fishing

This commercial fisherman certainly feels strongly about fishing sustainably. “You don’t fish for 30 years if you don’t have a sustainable fishery – it’s about respecting what is available. I want to make sure it’s there for my sons and future generations. Sustainable fishing practises are key. We’re all mindful of going out there and just harvesting our part of the catch.” 

And Danny will be doing what he loves for a while yet although perhaps not quite as long as his dad who recently retired from the game, age 70. “I’m not sure my body will hold up another 20 years.” Time will tell of course but, in the meantime, Danny will be sharing his wealth of knowledge with the third generation of Coffs Coast fishermen. 

The Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op is located at the Coffs Harbour Marina. 

Meet another North Coast local whose love of the ocean inspired her career path – marine biologist Anna Scott. 

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What is perhaps lesser-known about Dolphin Marine Conservation Park (DMCP) is that it is home to a vital rescue and rehabilitation service. We caught up with veterinarian Dr Duan March to find out more…

We last chatted to Duan about the amazing collaborative effort he was involved in releasing turtle hatchlings on Boambee Beach so it was great to touch base again and discover that turtle nests on the North Coast are on the rise and learn of other exciting developments.

Rescue and Rehabilitation

For many of us, the past several weeks have been particularly quiet but Duan has been as busy as ever caring for the scaly, furry and feathered family of the DMCP and responding to urgent phone calls about distressed and injured marine life. 

Duan’s expertise means that he’s often called to assist marine animals between Port Macquarie and Ballina. He’s also sought out to help far beyond the local region (including interstate) with the rescue of whales, dolphins, dugongs, seals, turtle, seabirds, and other creatures.

Add to that being a father of three with a PhD deadline looming (his thesis is on green turtles) and it’s easy to appreciate that Duan has a lot on his plate. Luckily, he loves what he does, now more than ever. 

Since July last year, DMCP has rescued 102 animals including a grey nurse shark and 70 turtles. There are currently 12 animals in care with one due for release soon. 

Over the past 10 or 15 years, the majority of Duan’s rescue work has involved sea turtles so it’s not surprising that they’ve become his favourite animal. “Little turtles are especially cute, and I love how cruisy sea turtles are. They’re super cool critters.” 

Fortunately for Duan, the past few months have given him plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with them.

Turtle nests on the NSW North Coast

The number of turtle nests being established on NSW beaches is on the rise and earlier this year nesting sites were discovered right across Coastbeat country from Port Macquarie to Moonee Beach and up to Diggers Camp in the Clarence Valley. Another chamber was dug on Woolgoolga Beach, but no eggs were laid there.

Why are nesting sites increasing? According to Duan, there’s not a lot of data on nesting frequency or location in NSW. Fortunately, this knowledge deficit was recognised and as a result, DPIE has introduced Turtle Watch.

Knowing these locations, I am curious as to whether turtles seek out the less inhabited beachside spots but Duan tells me that they’re guided by the light or rather lack thereof – preferring dark beaches with little ambient light. With that said though, Duan points out that one green turtle opted for the bright lights and bustling surrounds of Manly Beach earlier this year! 

Darker beaches appeal to mothers-to-be because hatchlings look to the moon to guide them out to sea and any ambient light can disorientate them. Sadly, hatchlings may end up going around in circles, unsure of the direction of the ocean. 

The North Coast nests were laid in January this year and were discovered the morning after the eggs were laid. The green turtle nesting sites at Moonee Beach and Diggers Camp had high success rates. “This is a great result as nests in NSW are critical to the longevity of the species. Temperatures actually determine the sex of sea turtles and with NSW being cooler than QLD, our nests will all produce males,” Duan says.

Education and Awareness at DMCP

For now, Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is closed to visitors due to COVID-19. 

As Operations Manager of Dolphin Marine Rescue, the charitable arm of the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park, Duan hopes it isn’t long before he can share his passion for wildlife and conservation with others once again.

About six months prior to the March closure, DMCP opened a section of the rehabilitation area to the public which proved a great success. “It was terrific. We were able to create such great dialogue with the general public and it was wonderful to see people so engaged.” 

“Perhaps it’s not a commonly associated thing – the interactive side guests enjoy, and the rescue and rehab work we conduct, so bringing these components together is important. When we reopen, we will continue to involve guests in the rehabilitation area.” 

Float syndrome in Turtles

Many turtles come into Duan’s care because of ‘float syndrome’. This is when gas builds up inside their coelomic cavity-causing them to float on the surface. As a result, they are unable to dive and forage for food and quickly become emaciated. Sea turtles will then need three to four months of TLC before they can be re-released into the ocean.

How do you know if a turtle on the surface has float syndrome? I ask. Duan’s rule of thumb is that if you can catch a turtle then it’s probably sick as the healthy ones are fast! 

Fortunately, DMCP recently received a $20,000 grant from the Federal Government, part of the Morrison-McCormack Government’s Communities Environment Program, to continue their great work with sea turtles. 

Finding his niche

Duan has certainly packed a lot in since graduating as a vet 15 years ago. He’s even got a Master’s Degree in Whale Acoustics which we’d love to pick his brain about some time for another Coastbeat article. But these days, he’s more than happy for all the time turtles are taking up – both at work and with his PhD. 

“It’s fascinating looking into ecosystem health and pollution and tie it all back to the clinical side of things. Turtles are like the canaries in the coal mines – when we see disease in them from urbanised waterways, we know there’s a problem regarding pollution.” 

And of course, the fieldwork involved like catching turtles from boats off the NSW North Coast and seeing hundreds of little hatchlings make their way to the ocean at renowned nesting sites such as Mon Repos and Raine Island sure beat sitting in front of the computer all day! 

How you can help

Support the well-being of Australian wildlife through rehabilitation, conservation, education and research by making a tax-deductible donation here. 

Want to find out about rare freshwater turtles in the Bellinger River or learn more from Duan about fur seals? 

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The post Rescuing Marine Creatures Great and Small appeared first on Coastbeat.

Hopefully, it won’t be long before we’re permitted to venture further from home to enjoy the beauty our National Parks, State Forests and nature reserves have on offer, not only in NSW but across the country. The indefinite overseas travel ban means that there’s no better time to experience the wide-open spaces and stunning landscapes of Australia.

Kathmandu reopens

Like many retailers, the Kathmandu store on the Coffs Coast has been heavily impacted by COVID-19. They recently reopened after a five-week closure and look forward to decking customers out in the high-quality travel and adventure gear the brand is renowned for. Kathmandu has been doing just that for 30 years. Travel, they believe, begins when you pack your bag.

Not surprisingly, Kathmandu’s online sales were up across April. However, nothing beats chatting to an expert in person if you’re seeking advice on the ideal jacket for a coastal winter, or should you have a hiking trip or skiing adventure planned for later in the year. The Kathmandu crew have been busy unpacking boxes upon boxes of new stock, and they’re ready to kit you out! 

We caught up with local staff member Annelies on the must-have items and learn where to head for great hiking once National Parks reopen. Annelies is a keen hiker with multi-day hikes her favourite and the Green Gully track in the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park tops the list. 

Great hiking 

The Green Gully Track

This is a 65km award-winning hike and the only hut-to-hut multi-day walk in NSW. It is located approximately three hours west of the coast (Port and Kempsey), near the town of Walcha. 

This hike is considered one of the best in the state and takes hikers deep into one of the largest gorge systems in NSW. The track was heavily impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires, but the habitat is recovering. 

Annelies loves that every day of the hike offers a different landscape. “You go from being up on the ridge before moving through savannah bushland then, as you descend into the gully, grass trees scatter the hillside. And in the gully itself, you come across crystal clear mountain streams. It’s an amazing hike.” Along the route, hikers stay in refurbished historical huts that were formerly used for cattle droving.

Read the Coastbeat article on The Green Gully Track here.

Day Hiking in Cathedral Rock National Park

When it comes to a hike closer to home, Annelies recommends Cathedral Rock National Park. “The hiking here is fantastic.” This park, located to the west of Dorrigo, near Ebor is on the New England Tablelands.

Once reopened, why not head off for some camping, hiking and captivating scenic views? Annelies describes this 2-3-hour hike as moderate to difficult. She adds that there are chains to help people make their way over the last few big boulders. 

New Zealand

New Zealand is shaping up to be the first overseas destination accessible to Aussies. The island nation also happens to be home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. No wonder it’s been the chosen location for many epic films.

Annelies had done a lot of hiking in New Zealand and highly recommends the five-day Abel Tasman Hike which hugs the beautiful coastline as well as the hike up to Mueller Hut in Mount Cook National Park. 

What makes hiking so appealing?

For Annelies it’s about the challenge of having a go at the hike itself and being away from the pressure of everyday life; there are no distractions and the goal is simply to keep walking. She also loves that hiking presents the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in nature.

What to pack?

For those keen to try a multi-day hike for the first time, Annelies suggests this simple ‘essentials’ checklist. 

• Something to keep you warm
• Something to keep you dry
• Something to eat
• Something to drink
• Somewhere to sleep

Why being prepared is so important

“Having the right gear is crucial on a multi-day hike” she says. “If the weather turns nasty and you don’t have the right equipment, it can turn into a horrible experience. You’re stuck in that environment, everything is wet and often, you’re cold. If that’s your memory of the hike, it will take you a lot to get back on that horse.” 

Conversely, Annelies says, if you go out there and you’re prepared, it’s a wonderful experience. “Even if it’s pouring outside, as long as that water isn’t coming into your tent, you’re set.” She adds, “It’s an incredible feeling to be in the middle of nowhere – just you, all snug and warm in your dry little tent surrounded by the elements.” 

Must-have items

Annelies shares some of her favourite Kathmandu items.

Tent – my pick is the Lansan Ultralight Tent. 

Comfy shoes – opt for footwear that is good quality and comfortable to wear. It’s important to wear your shoes in before setting off. I would recommend the Salomon range. 

A good quality jacket – whether it’s for winter on the North Coast or an adventure further afield, you can’t go past Epiq Down Jackets. There’s a range for men, women, boys, and girls. 

Khusi Earmuffs – in keeping with the company’s commitment to the ethical creation of their apparel, we have Khusi Earmuffs (more like a headband). These are knitted by hand in Nepal and are amazing!

Moana Backpacks – Moana means ‘ocean’ or ‘sea’ and again, with a dedication to sustainability, Kathmandu has created a range of backpacks out of plastics recovered from marine and coastal environments. 

Head torch – whether camping or hiking, a good head torch is invaluable. I personally like the smaller, lightweight torches and would suggest 200 lumens or more. 

Socks – I never thought I would have so much to say about socks, but our socks are fantastic! They are warm, super comfy and best of all, don’t lose their elasticity. 

Chat to the adventure enthusiasts at Kathmandu Coffs Central or if you don’t have a store nearby, head online.

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The post Take a Hike – A guide from Kathmandu on what to pack and the best hikes nearby appeared first on Coastbeat.

Amcal Max’s History

20 years ago, a young pharmaceutical graduate and his wife (with whom love had blossomed over a holiday romance at South West Rocks) made their first investment; purchasing a pharmacy in Greg’s hometown of Kempsey. The Holliers were buying into a business that had been continually operating since 1876.

Two decades on, Greg and Kellie Hollier work side by side at Amcal Max Kempsey servicing the community they love. Their daughter Grace is also lending a helping hand before heading off to university next year.

Greg tells me that Kempsey is a wonderful town to own a pharmacy because people are so loyal. “We’re treated like family by our community.” I can’t help but wonder, given the choice of five pharmacies in town, if longevity accounts for such loyalty? “It’s more about the strength of the relationship we have with our customers”, Greg responds. “People place great trust in us and when they know that they can count on you, that trusting relationship builds.” 

Such trust has never been as evident as during this pandemic and it’s been a hectic time for Greg and the pharmacy’s team.

Kempsey’s Local Health Hub

“Understandably, customers were initially very anxious, many still are. From a professional perspective, I’ve never felt that my job is more important than it has been over the past few weeks. Far fewer people have been able to see doctors face to face to allay their fears. Yes, they may have been talking to medical staff over the phone but in a way, there has been extra responsibility on our shoulders as people look to us for reassurance.”

Locals seek Greg out as an expert and I’m sure that that is true of pharmacists everywhere. Greg appreciates that he is a trusted voice, but he is also quick to acknowledge that we’re all learning as we go.

“I certainly don’t overstate what I know. I simply reassure people and tell them the right things to do to prevent coming into contact with the virus. Many people who come into the pharmacy just want to know we’re going to be there for them. We’ve long been part of their everyday lives and that brings them comfort. A sense of normality is particularly comforting when so much else around them is changing.”

For some, it is a very lonely time and being able to interact with those friendly faces you know is hugely important. Greg agrees, “Many of the elderly we see have been extremely lonely and with venturing out to buy medication permitted during this time, doing so has also resulted in that vital social connection, often imperative for good mental health.”

Greg is always thinking of his local community, especially those most vulnerable and with such unknowns in the early days of the pandemic, there was certainly concerns on his part.

“I’m concerned every time the flu hits. We lose frail and elderly patients every year and I wasn’t sure how different this was going to compare to the regular flu. We’re so lucky here in Australia with how things have gone. I was certainly concerned but I didn’t want to panic because I really didn’t know all of the information.”

In the early days, many people wanted to stay home for extended periods of time and sought to stockpile medications as a result but like all pharmacists, Greg had to adhere to the Federal Government restrictions (i.e. asthma puffers limited to one and no more than one month of medication for individuals. “Of course, we adhered to those guidelines or the stock situation would’ve been terrible and that in turn, could have a devasting impact.”

Amcal Max’s New Normal

Like many business owners regionally, nationally and globally, there have been adjustments at Amcal Kempsey to cater to the new normal such as more free deliveries, implementing social distancing in store, installing sneeze guards to protect staff and an order and collect service for those wishing to avoid coming into the store.

Like all of us, Greg, Kellie and their two teenage children are at home together, grateful to be safe and well but all the while looking forward to when they can socialise with friends and make plans for what they really love – enjoying an overseas skiing holiday as a family.

“I understand that for the moment it’s very important for me to be here and support the community but to be able to travel again would be absolutely wonderful.”

Here’s hoping that it’s not long before the Holliers are hitting the slopes again under sunny skies before returning to the place they’ll always call home – the beautiful Macleay Valley Coast.

Call into see Greg and the Amcal Kempsey team at Kempsey Central. They are open seven days. Phone: 6562 4266

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• Art at Coffs Central

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Anzac Day conjures up powerful memories for many of us, be it as a youngster waving a flag when soldiers, tall and proud, marched along the high street or perhaps it’s the dawn service at The Cenotaph in Sydney’s Martin Place you remember well. Others may have stood on former battlefields in France or overlooking the Aegean Sea at Gallipoli on this important day. Personally, I picture having a ‘spin’ in a game of Two-up with the late afternoon light behind me and a gorgeous old ‘digger’ by my side showing me the way at a bustling RSL by the coast. It’s a memory more than two decades old but still so vivid.

Anzac Day brings people together to reflect upon the courage, mateship and sacrifice so intrinsic to the Anzac spirit. As ‘The Last Post’ plays and we speak the words from ‘For the Fallen’ we do remember them and their incredible sacrifice.

Coastbeat chats to Greg Laird OAM, President of Port Macquarie RSL Sub-branch and a Vietnam Veteran about what Anzac Day means to him.

Q: Greg, you served in Vietnam and are a third-generation soldier?

Yes, both my maternal and paternal grandfathers went to war and my father served in the Middle East and New Guinea. My maternal grandfather actually won the Military Medal at Fromelles. At some stage, I’d very much like to get to the Western Front and retrace his footsteps.

Q: How do you usually commemorate Anzac Day?

I’d be out of bed at 3:30am to set up everything at the war memorial for the dawn service. After the service, we head to Panthers Port Macquarie for the gunfire breakfast before returning to town for the march and 11am service. After that it’s a luncheon at the Club.

The afternoon is when we all unwind over a few drinks. All the returned servicemen are very like-minded and although you tend not to talk about war, we understand that we’ve been through many shared experiences.

Q: What are the most rewarding moments of Anzac Day for you?

Time with other returned servicemen is very special. Also, there are so many kids that come along and show their appreciation which is wonderful. I was walking in the march last year when a little girl watching called out “Hello Greg” and I just melted. She recognised me from a visit I had made to her pre-school.

Q: I understand that the Port Macquarie RSL Sub-branch has the largest membership in the country area (some 440 members) and among its ranks are 20 to 25 World War II veterans. It must be devastating to think you may not march with some of these veterans again.

These fellas are well into their 90s by now. The oldest one is 99 years of age. Hopefully we’ll all march together again next year. They’re not to be underestimated – one of them still drives and just bought himself a fancy sports car at the age of 96!

Q: What does being an Anzac mean to you?

I baulk at being called an ANZAC. I call myself a returned serviceman. I feel that ANZACs did a bit more than I ever did….

Q: Tell me about Anzac Day 2020?

It’s sad that we can’t do what we normally would, but I encourage everyone to go and lay a wreath at their local war memorial. I’ve had many enquiries from various organisations and schools and have told them the same thing.

I know that I’ll be standing in my driveway in the little village I call home playing ‘The Last Post’ at 6am.

I appreciate that there cannot be an organised crowd, but I will call into the war memorial throughout the day to see all the beautiful wreaths left by others. I will also get together with other servicemen during the day. While we will observe social distancing, we still plan to raise a glass to commemorate the importance of the day.

Q: How can we pay our respects and show our support?

Get behind whatever you can and if possible, tune into the 6am service on the ABC. With ‘The Last Post’ or ‘The Reveille’ playing, stand at your front door or in your driveway and light a candle or raise the Aussie flag.

And next year, we’ll be able to attend the Anzac services and I’ll be marching proudly and getting together with my fellow servicemen and women.

Thank you so much, Greg. It was a great pleasure chatting with you.

Anzac Day 2020 will be different to ever before. This year, we won’t be attending our local dawn service or supporting returned servicemen and women as they march but there are other ways we can pay tribute to our ANZACs, past and present. Take a look at the different ways you can commemorate ANZAC Day this year.

The post Lest We Forget – Anzac Day 2020 appeared first on Coastbeat.

People take road trips up the coast, attend church services, meet up with friends for their annual camping trip by the beach, families come together for a delicious seafood feast on Good Friday, shops are bursting with mums and dads buying Easter Eggs for the kids and over 800,000 people head to the Sydney Royal Easter Show as they have done for nearly two centuries. But that was before. Easter 2020 looks so very different. 

For most of us, Easter holds treasured memories. Even if it wasn’t during school holidays, being a long weekend always meant everyone was relaxed and enjoying the break from work and and of course, chocolate bunnies and eggs have been a part of Easter for as long as I can remember. As I write this, childhood memories flood my brain. 

We always went away to a farm with friends where we’d swim in the creek, horse ride and play outside from sunrise to sunset (maybe beyond dark if we played Spotlight). And, with plenty of rabbit poo around, there was proof the Easter Bunny was among friends when he came to deliver our goodies. I do hope our kids will still look back on this one as special – albeit very different to any other year.

Luckily our primary school shared this info about the Easter Bunny’s travel exemption this year…. download a copy here.

Here are some of the ways Easter 2020 is different…

Places of worship

We’re all aware that places of worship have closed to the public since March 23. However, churches and other places of worship can still conduct services if they adhere to the strict rules of social distancing and not exceeding the maximum number of people coming together, for example, the minister and someone filming the service. As a result, many churches will be live streaming across the Easter long weekend. A quick Google search brings up many options.

Shopping

Normally the car parks are jam-packed on Thursday before Easter because Good Friday is one of the few days all year that supermarkets are closed. People always goa bit mad (before we really knew what panic buying meant) and I’d think, ‘Coles is only closed for 24 hours, what’s all the fuss about?’ 

A couple of years ago I made the mistake of assuming I could get a few groceries somewhere on Good Friday. We’d been invited to a friend’s place for a big seafood lunch and planned to take cheese, nibbles and something for the kids. We’d left shopping until the morning of and had to turn up empty-handed – even the local servo was closed. Sorry kids, no chips! What dud guests we were although a couple of champagnes in, none of us gave it another thought.  

This year, supermarkets will open for much of the day on Friday. Most will be observing holiday hours on Friday, Sunday and Monday. Additionally, many of the smaller operators will also open with their newly adapted styles of service, simply to keep money coming in in the hope of keeping their businesses afloat. Supermarkets expect to be busier than usual and this may result in controlling the number of people let into the store at any given period.

Seafood on Good Friday

Since many abstain from eating meat on Good Friday, this day has always been a big day of trade for those in the seafood industry. From your local fish and chip shop to the nearby Seafood Co-Op and the man in his van delivering delicious fresh prawns and other yummy crustaceans, they all thrived. That was before. 

Please SHOP LOCAL and support your nearby fishmonger – not just this weekend but in the weeks ahead. It’s a challenging time for small businesses, especially in food and hospitality services. None of them will be enjoying the usual holiday trade that can see them through the quieter months of the year.

Hot Cross Bun Cake Recipe

Sure, we’re not going away like we planned or catching up with friends and family, but Easter can still mean Easter Eggs and Hot Cross Buns. Try this Hot Cross Bun Cake Recipe.

Easter Craft – Make Hollow Eggs

Facebook is flooded with great craft ideas for the kids to celebrate Easter. Here’s one we like. Create colourful Hollow Eggs this Easter by following these steps.

Ideas for Hunts

With local parks and playgrounds out of bounds, the usual Sunday morning hunt may look a little different this year. However, you can find terrific ideas to be found for backyard hunting. From the extra incentive of finding the golden egg, to scavenger hunts and glow in the dark eggs, this is the year for being a little more inventive with your home-based hunt. Here are 10 Easter Egg hunt ideas.

Easter 2020 will be unlike any other year. We hope, however, that you are able to spend this long weekend with the people you love. Stay safe!

The post How we celebrate Easter and why 2020 will be different appeared first on Coastbeat.

No pressure parents but I did read something the other day about kids remembering these days, weeks, and months for the rest of their lives. Of course, we all will so we need to be creative… Hopefully, these ideas are helpful. Our aim is to keep suggestions like these coming.

Card Games

Many of us have forgotten the rules to those card games we played as kids; the ‘olden days’ before mobile phones. Now is the ideal time to relearn the rules and teach your children too. Find a deck of cards at home, order them online or purchase from the supermarket. Most games suit a broad range of ages. From Crazy Eights to Blackjack and War, find 15 classic card games here.

Learn an instrument

Do you have a ukulele or guitar lying around? If not, they’re readily available (under $30 for a ukulele) and can be delivered to home by JB HI-FI and other retailers. YouTube is the best bet for tutorials. Alternatively, you can give the Coffs Harbour Conservatorium a call which now offers online lessons as a part of their response plan to this unusual situation.

Rest assured, in learning on your own you’re in excellent company from David Bowie to Prince, Jimi Hendrix and Dave Grohl as well as recent north coast visitor, Elton John.  

Watch a concert together

Speaking of music, whether you’re into Chris Martin, Hozier, Vance Joy, Niall Horan or Shawn Mendes & Camilla Cabello, watch their online performance as part of the ‘Together at Home’ series. These concerts have been created to encourage people to stay at home, reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety and bring everyone together through music.

Make exercise fun

There are countless ways to engage in exercise whether you have equipment at home or not. Teach the kids some yoga moves or have them design a fitness program of their own. Each child can come up with 10 minutes of exercise which can be combined for a longer session.

Go old school with skipping or teach them elastics (I feel nostalgic just thinking about the hours of elastic we played at school). How about they strive to improve handstands, cartwheels or flexibility over a certain period by dedicating a little time to these each day?

Listen to an author you love

If you’re not already a fan, discover the world of David Walliams with free daily audio stories about characters like ‘Spoiled Brad’ from The World’s Worst Children. Walliams is releasing one story every day for 30 days.

Audible is also offering free books for kids and promise that ‘as long as schools are closed, we’re open’. Books for all ages and across many different genres are available.

Lego

The primary school my youngest attends recently posted this 30-day Lego challenge which I thought was a terrific idea. For those of you with Lego at hand, encourage the kids to start building. Again, this is another good screen free option.

Older kids may think they’ve outgrown Lego so switch it up a bit for them. For example, they can wear an eye patch and see how much trickier building is that way. Alternatively, Lego sceptics (most likely teens) could wear blindfolds, set a timer and see who comes up with the best and worst result.  

Plays, talent shows and performances

This was the go-to thing we did as youngsters when we had friends or neighbours over. It was a fun way to involve kids across different age groups. Sitting in front of a TV or video game never crossed our minds.

iPhone movie making may be the modern day equivalent but the authentic way to do this is to write a script (on paper), delegate roles for each child (three in our case), choose costumes, rehearse and then as tradition dictates, perform it to paying parents. In smaller families, kids can switch between different roles.

Get Arty with murals and online art classes

Tap into your creativity. If you have an exterior wall that can be hosed down easily, grab some chalk or the appropriate wash-off paint and create a cool mural. Kids can come up with a theme, design something on paper and then focus on a section of the wall each.

Alternatively, opt for free online art classes for kids. It’s even better when they’re hosted by locals such as this talented Crescent Head artist. 

Baking

We appreciate that some products have been harder to source of late but most of us still have ample ingredients to make tasty dishes and plenty of recipe books in the cupboard. This is a great screen free way to engage children. To keep it simple, consider those recipe books with dishes made from only four or five ingredients. Jamie Oliver does one and the 4 Ingredients cookbook series are also hugely popular. 

Learn a new skill like skateboarding!

Not sure about you but I’ve always wished I could skateboard. I love seeing girls here on the coast surfing and skating with such ease and confidence but for those of us who grew up in the ‘70s or ‘80s, girls weren’t really encouraged to give these activities a go. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way.

So, for kids and grown-ups ready to learn a new skill, now’s your chance. Skateboarding is just one suggestion and based on the assumption that you have a carport or smooth driveway that makes this possible. Again, YouTube is your best bet. Do what nearly nine million others have done and watch this video for inspiration. Unlike this dude though, helmets are essential!

Next time we’ll talk puzzles, creating crosswords, fort-building, board games and more….

With staying at home very much the focus, we still need to ensure we’re looking after our mental health. Find out about the importance of remaining connected and other helpful tips here.

The post 10 ways of keeping kids entertained at home – with some old-school inspiration appeared first on Coastbeat.

Eight days ago, I had a good laugh when a Sydney friend posted on Facebook about going to a gym class and seeing a woman wearing colourful rubber dishwashing gloves. I thought the world had gone mad but in just a matter of days, the world as we know it has changed greatly. It feels as though we’ve stepped into a movie – it’s that surreal.

That’s what happens in the movies…

But where’s the Tom Cruise / Brad Pitt character jetting in to take us all away to that far away island until the threat has passed and there are no more cases – anywhere. That’s what happens in the movies…

I’m torn between wanting to find up-to-date information but dreading what I’ll then discover when I click on the relevant news sites or turn on the television about the rise in cases, fatalities and the ever-changing global circumstances.

The decision would have been made for us

I’m sad that the once in a lifetime trip to Africa that had been planned for months with three generations of our family travelling, cannot go ahead. We were on the three-week countdown when the news came through from the travel company that everything had been postponed. Since then, even if they hadn’t made the call, the decision would have been made for us with the first-ever travel ban in Australian history.

My heart breaks

My heart breaks for people who have already lost loved ones to COVID-19. I feel for Aussies unable to fly overseas and spend precious time with a friend or family member they may not see again due to illness (unrelated to this virus) and for those unable to attend long-awaited celebrations like weddings and other milestones. I think of people who can’t take their intended flight to attend a funeral to grieve and say goodbye to someone they cared about. I think of the countless non-Australians who were holidaying here and can’t get home to be with their families at this time.

Give a little thought to those people in our communities

I’m confused by the panic buying across Australia, in locations that are yet to see any cases whilst countries heavily impacted (with people not in isolation) have fully stocked shelves. It seems toilet paper is as sought after as booze during the Prohibition era! Perhaps, before you go mad for that packet of pasta or can of beans, think about people who work in social services, who care and buy for those who can’t get to shops themselves. Give a little thought to those people in our communities with a greater need than you.

It’s a strange time

All of the extra-curricular activities the kids partake in have been cancelled or postponed, winter sports have been put on hold by the various governing bodies and then there are the festivals, major sporting events, fundraisers, concerts – the list of what is not happening here and around the world goes on and on. Of course, I understand why. It’s a strange time.

Like many working parents, I’m wondering what happens if schools close. It might be challenging to be a productive employee (I work primarily from home) whilst three kids with cabin fever bicker down the end of the hallway but in the scheme of things, it all comes down to family.

My hopes

My hope is that my parents, aged 81 and 79 respectively, stay well and that my son with respiratory concerns is not impacted. I hope the five of us and our families and friends also remain well. Surely, what really matters when you look at the big picture is our own health and the health and safety of those we love most.

I’ve no doubt it’s the same for everyone, that we are united in that wish.

A waiting game…

A matter of weeks ago, few of us had heard of coronavirus but it is what it is. It has become a waiting game. Here, for now, our day-to-day still feels relatively normal. How I’d love that to last…

Coastbeat note: stay informed with reliable and updated resources

• World Health Organisation’s Situation Reports
• Australian Government, Department of Health Current Situation and Cases

The post Uncertain times in an ever-changing world appeared first on Coastbeat.