These two talented photographers will receive a whale watching tour as First Prizes, plus Whale Trust merchandise. Gowings Whale Trust received many wonderful whale photographs for their 2022 Whale Watching competition. Thank you to everyone who entered.

Coffs Harbour Winner

Ash McMurrich submitted a close-up photograph of a large, female humpback whale, captured while on a whale watching trip with Jetty Dive, in the Solitary Islands area. The image feels intimate, conveying the gentle nature and curiosity of the whale.

A Wild Whale Encounter

Ash told us, ‘We were so lucky that day. The whale ‘spy-hopped’ the Jetty Dive boat. Spy-hopping is when they poke one eye out of the water and check you out. She kept coming up to look at us, each time drawing a little closer. She came right up to the boat. It was amazing!’

Ash snapped off his winning shot and then gave his camera over to his three children, Ava (12), Lily (almost 10) and Austin (7). They took it in turns to photograph the beautiful whale as she ‘mugged’ the boat. Mugging is when the whale interacts closely with whale watchers, over an extended period. The McMurrich family enjoyed 40 minutes of mugging!

‘And she looked like she was enjoying interacting with us,’ said Ash. ‘We could hear her breathing, through her blowhole. The kids were so excited. After they took a few shots each we got them to put the camera down and watch, really be in the moment.’

Ash reports that their whale was joined by friends, who communicated with her from about 100m away by leaping and tail slapping. Each showed a different attitude with this non-verbal communication. Then the whales formed a pod and swam away.

Port Macquarie Winner

Peter Rogers’ spectacular photograph captures the power and magic of the whale in its ocean environment. All the elements of animal, light and water align in this one, awe-inspiring moment.

Peter says of his shot, ‘We had a great day out with Jody from Port Jet. She really knows what she is doing. I took a few shots and hoped I’d caught something special. I got home that evening and thought yep, got something there.’

Second Prize: Port Macquarie

Did we mention that the competition was fierce? Second prize for Port is awarded to Courtenay Davies for her lonely whale image. This extreme wide-angle shot expresses the wildness of the whale in the vast ocean. The whale’s form is perfectly surrounded by the sea spray as it leaps from the sea. This communicates the magic of the whale in its natural environment and the magic of this world that we share with them.

Second Prize: Coffs Harbour

Goes to… Kathy Brown! The GWT Photo Competition criteria asked for creativity and this shot shows great artistry. The sea looks soft and inviting, in gentle shades of blue, contrasting with the raw, bright energy of the whale breaching. The clarity of the white flipper sets a carefree, jubilant tone to the image, balanced by the sea bird in the sky. A gorgeous shot.

Kathy is an avid wildlife photographer, and passionate environmentalist. As are all our entrants. It is difficult to come so close to humpback whales without being moved.

Why Whales Are Important

The emotional impact of engaging with whales was what started the Gowings Whale Trust, when avid surfer and businessman, John Gowing, went diving with whales in Samoa. He was awestruck by their majesty, forming the Whale Trust to encourage others to learn about the importance of whales to the survival of us all.

Junior Winners

So too were our young winners of the Junior section: Ava, Lily and Austin McMurrich, from Coffs; and Shelby Coaker (aged 10). Ava’s entry is energy packed, while Austin’s shows the whale tail against the landscape.

The kids found their whale encounter thrilling. The photographs they took were used at their school to share and stimulate a discussion about the importance of protecting whales and their environment.

Take 3 For The Sea

Shelby Coaker lives in Victoria, but her family had taken time out to travel around Australia. A ‘half-lap’ her mum, Courtenay says, through central Australia then down the east coast. Courtenay describes Shelby as an avid environmentalist, who always takes a bucket and tongs to the beach to clean up.

‘She gets really angry at people who litter,’ says Courtenay. Good on you Shelby – we need young environmentalists like you to keep us caring. Learn more at Take 3 for the Sea.

Love Those Whales!

We loved receiving all the amazing photographs for this competition. Thank you to everyone who entered. Please keep sending us your whale images and stories and we’ll publish them on the Gowings Whale Trust website.

The post Whale Comp Winners Announced appeared first on Coastbeat.

Alison Carroll’s turmeric journey started over four years ago when she sought relief from chronic knee pain. As she began to take turmeric, she noticed the pain subsiding. Alison says she was inspired to then share her experience with the aim of helping others.

“I’ve supported thousands of people as they use turmeric to overcome health challenges,” she explains. “There’s a lot of ancient wisdom and modern science surrounding its anti-inflammatory benefits.”

Many customers have asked Alison for tips on how to take turmeric, so she developed an ebook. ‘Turmeric the Magic of Curcumin’ contains information on the healing power of turmeric as well as some of Alison’s favourite turmeric-rich recipes.    

Turmeric and Coffee Smoothie

Put the bananas and berries to one side and grab some turmeric powder and coffee beans instead. This smoothie combines the golden goodness of turmeric with a caffeine hit and the nutrition found in almond and coconut milk.

Ingredients

⅓ cup oats

1 tbsp chai seeds

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp instant coffee or your favourite coffee blend – cooled

1 ½ cup almond or coconut milk

½ cup cashews soaked 

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp turmeric powder from Go Vita Coffs Central or Organics Mattr Port Central

6 ice cubes 

Method

Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth — approximately 30 seconds. Allow time for all nuts to completely grind up. Pour into a tall glass or cup then sip with a reusable straw. Enjoy!

Visit Go Vita or Fresco in Coffs Central for great turmeric.

Looking for more nutritious yet delicious recipes and meal ideas? Learn how to cook with bone marrow and enjoy these healthy treats.  

The post Make a Refreshing Turmeric and Coffee Smoothie appeared first on Coastbeat.

“A lot of people are becoming more aware of their health, the way they live and how it effects them,” Klára explains. “People are realising that what they put in and on their body affects their whole being.”

“If the pandemic has had one good outcome, it’s that people are now more aware of their lifestyle.”

Klára’s own journey was certainly impacted by the uncertainty and upheaval of the last two years. She describes 2020 as her “year of self-discovery”. She moved from Sydney to Telegraph Point and undertook her Yoga Teaching Training. First introduced to the practice in high school, Klára calls yoga her best friend. 

“I’ve been through some really tough times and have needed something to grab on to,” she explains. “Yoga is that thing – it provides hope, acceptance and safety.” 

Klára has taught yoga in Port Macquarie studios as well as high schools, but classes are on pause for now. She dreams of teaching in an outdoor setting and is currently looking for the ideal space. Klára has continued to explore bodywork techniques and will soon be offering Zen Thai Shiatsu at the Wellness Collective in Wauchope.

Connecting Women

Uniting and empowering women is Klára’s passion. She recently began hosting women’s circles as a way to connect. Through conversation, reflection, journaling and meditation, women experience understanding and encouragement. 

“I feel like providing a safe space for women to come together and share whatever they want, show them some fun and love and experience what we have to offer as a community is really empowering,” Klára says. “And we really need empowered women these days.”

Essential Blends at the Real Food Markets

Klára has been at the Real Food Markets for the last few months selling essential oil blends and serums. While she says it can be difficult to find pure, organic essential oils, she has discovered a reputable brand with integrity.

“I started using them as part of my healing journey and found them really helpful,” Klára explains. “I understand some people don’t want to buy a whole essential oil kit so I’ve made blends they can keep in their pocket or bag.” 

She has researched the oils and listened to feedback from customers to create specific blends to aid sleep, grounding, energy and emotions. Klára finds the markets to be a great meeting place and enjoys chatting and exchanging information. Find her there every Tuesday from midday!

Follow Klára on Instagram and stay updated on her events and essential oil offerings here.

Meet fellow stall holders Fred and Rosamarie as they host the boys from Thistle Flowers on their farm.

The post Klára Šašková: Expanding Body, Mind and Spirit appeared first on Coastbeat.

Working With Nature

“We farm with nature and include nature,” explains Todd Richardson. “We work in tune with the animals and the pasture, so any additives and chemicals aren’t required.” 

Todd says his ‘Aha!’ moment came when he was spreading a standard fertiliser on the paddock. It would produce a florescent green flush of forage that his animals couldn’t graze on for three weeks due to toxicity. He questioned why he was doing something that felt so wrong. Surely there was a better way. 

“They say the biggest advantage a regenerative farmer has is if they are first generation,” Todd begins. “They don’t have those pre-conceived ideas or paradigms passed down – they’re open to looking at everything and trying various methods.”

That describes Todd and Lisa Richardson’s experience to a tee. Up until mid 2020, they owned and managed a successful café where Todd was the head chef. Gradually, his interest shifted from preparing food to producing it and Chef2Farmer began. A Holistic Management course with the Savory Institute planted a seed and opened Todd’s eyes to new possibilities. Equipped with knowledge on soil regeneration, pasture raising animals and creating biodiversity, Todd and Lisa began adopting new farming practices.

Animals Living Their Best Lives

For starters, the cows, pigs and chickens live in their natural environments. They spend their days foraging, digging, scratching and grazing at the freshest “salad bar” of grasses, legumes, native species and brassicas. But they don’t stay put. The cows are moved twice a day to allow the area they’ve munched, trampled and fertilised to recover. This process does wonders for root systems and soil quality. The chickens follow the cows and act as the clean-up crew. They spread manure, eat the grass and grass hoppers plus produce nitrogen rich fertiliser of their own. Meanwhile the pigs tear through overgrown areas. While living their absolute best lives, they’re upturning plants, making mud wallows and breaking the ground for new crops. Who needs a bulldozer when you have these guys? 

The Meat You Want to Eat

A tour around the property reveals rolling hills covered in the greenest grass and healthy livestock contained by just a single line of electric fence. Todd and Lisa greet their animals by name with affectionate pats…which may appear at odds with the idea of bacon or steak on a plate. But if meat is on the menu, the Richardsons are doing everything in their power to make sure it’s ethical, sustainable and chemical free. Todd’s experience in the kitchen means he knows the importance of fresh, quality produce. A chef since the age of 16 and former owner of LV’s on Clarence, he’s bridging the gap between consumers and producers. 

“After close to 20 years in the kitchen I really enjoy being outside with nature,” he says. “But my chef side comes into farming too – I look at the product in a different light to a standard farmer.” 

Farm Tours and Market Stalls

Soon Lisa and Todd will open the farm for tours as a way to connect families with their food. Lisa says the first two-hour walking tour is scheduled for next month.

“It’s about education and having a nice day out in nature,” she explains. “It will be hands-on for the kids – feeding the cows, collecting the eggs, seeing the piglets.” 

“Eventually I’d like to tailor the tours to suit different interests and offer a meal at the end.” 

Chef2Farmer products are available online, and the Richardsons have just joined Port Central’s weekly Real Food Market. It will be the first time they’ve sold direct to customers and Lisa’s says she’s looking forward to getting to know the families they supply to. Speaking of family, their children are part of the operations at Little Eden too. 12-year-old Laiken and 10-year-old Violet do need a bit of prodding, but three-year-old Sapphire is “a born farm girl”.

“She cries if I say she can’t come along and do jobs, laughs Todd. “She absolutely loves it – she even has a pet cow that she sits on!”

Follow Chef2Farmer on Instagram and meet them at the Port Central Real Food Markets! Meet fellow market farmers Masters of Fresh.

The post Chef2Farmer: Ethical Produce from Paddock to Plate appeared first on Coastbeat.

“It seems like we’re here every week getting flowers,” says Chris as he follows Fred through rows and rows of protea plants. 

“They’re the staples,” adds Matt as he accepts a flower Fred’s just cut. “If you’ve got your proteas and your banksias you just add to that.” 

Matt and Chris relish the opportunity to connect with their growers. They value the relationships they’re building as well as the quality of just-picked flowers. It’s something Fred and Rosamarie appreciate, too. Rosamarie remembers the early days when local florists didn’t hold them in high regard and proteas weren’t too popular.

“Sometimes it was heartbreaking, but we just kept going and kept going,” she explains. “After the last couple of years, we can say we are getting a reward.”

Matt recalls spotting Fred and Rosamarie at a market in Laurieton early last year. After initially being enticed by the delicious Swiss cheese tarts the couple bake and sell, Matt and Chris bought a bunch of their flowers for home. The Thistle boys then introduced themselves at the Port Central Real Food Market and the weekly farm visits began. 

“We could see how much they both loved it – they just have that vibe at the markets,” Matt explains. “But they also work really hard.” 

“I call it playing with my flowers!” Fred chimes in. “You can change your attitude towards work – if you call it playing then it makes more fun.” 

Fred and Rosamarie plan to keep “playing” for at least another ten years. The plan is for their son to manage the farm after that.  

“We’re here to stay for a while and hopefully these two are too,” concludes Chris.

If you’re wondering where to get your hands on a Thistle Flowers bunch, you’ll be happy to know they’ve set up shop at Port Central for February. Find them on Level 1 near the escalators. Follow Thistle Flowers on Instagram and Fred and Rosamarie on Facebook. 

The post On the Farm with Thistle Flowers appeared first on Coastbeat.

A Self-Publishing Guide

It’s called ‘Look—It’s Your Book! Write, Publish & Promote Your Non-Fiction Book: A Self-Publishing Guide for Australian Writers’. Cathy, Jim and Leanne’s tips appear alongside advice from successful Australian self-published authors like Kim McCosker. You may be familiar with Kim’s cookbook ‘4 Ingredients’ – it only sold a casual nine million copies (!).  

“The world is ready for fresh voices on subjects that mainstream publishers have for too long closed the door on,” says author Anna Featherstone. “My hope for this book is that it helps people write, plan and publish quality books that solve real problems for their readers.”

“It’s also about making writers aware that getting a first draft is just the beginning,” she continues. “The real work starts when it comes time to edit, publish, distribute and market it.”

Advice from Industry Experts

Anna says being able to interview Cathy, Jim and Leanne was wonderful as they’re at the publishing coal face.

“They know the industry, readers and writing community inside out,” she explains. “It’s advice like theirs that is a highlight and the reason the book is already receiving great pre-orders from libraries and bookstores.”  

Make this the year you write your book or generate content from your unique experiences and knowledge. Book in with Port Macquarie Library for the local launch of Look—It’s Your Book! It’s on Saturday February 19th. It’s also available for sale at Book Face Port Central.

Anna Featherstone is one of a number of authors who live in Port Macquarie. She is the author of five non-fiction books including Small Farm Success Australia and Honey Farm Dreaming.

Read about Pandora Colledge’s experience self-publishing her cookbook Nourished by Nature.

The post A Self-Publishing Guide for Australian Writers appeared first on Coastbeat.

“I tell new Koala Hospital volunteers that now is such an exciting time,” says Sue Ashton. “We are really making a difference for the koalas and the potential to help the wild koala population has never been better.”

After the 2019/20 Black Summer, the Koala Hospital (managed by Koala Conservation Australia) was thrust into the spotlight. A Go-Fund-Me page was set up to raise money to help the hospital manage an inundation of injured koalas. To date, that campaign has raised close to $8 million.

“This little organisation has become a fairly significant business,” Sue says as she reflects on what the generous donations have allowed. “The public has put trust in us to do something worthwhile with that money.” 

Overseeing A World-First

It’s not a responsibility Sue has taken lightly. She worked hard to update the organisation’s business strategy and make plans for what was once a far-off goal: A wild koala conservation breeding facility. The precinct at Cowarra – named Guulabaa – will be open to visitors. Six-nine months of construction will begin at the end of March. 

“It’s a world first so we are under so much scrutiny – there’s a lot of pressure to get it right,” Sue explains. “We’ve got multi-million-dollar buildings, we’re applying for scientific licenses to breed koalas – the biosecurity around a breeding program is enormous.”

Once the Guulabaa breeding facility and tourism hub is complete, the Hospital’s Lord Street operations will temporarily relocate there. The current site will be redeveloped into a new Koala Hospital and world-class tourism offering. Sue was instrumental in securing the significant NSW Government grant that has allowed the development. 

“I think it will be fabulous and will really put Port on the map in terms of koalas and koala care,” Sue says. “The flow on to other businesses here should be really powerful as well.” 

Securing Koala Habitat

In case that wasn’t enough, Sue spent 15 months facilitating a $3.5 million donation to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. It allowed National Parks to purchase 194 hectares of prime koala habitat at 147 The Ruins Way in Port Macquarie. The land was under threat from residential development but will now support the region’s wild koala population. 

Koala Ambassadors Unite

Sue acknowledges she has had the support of good mentors as well as a committed team of volunteers.

“I can go to them and discuss things, bounce ideas around,” she explains. “All of them come with a lot of experience and they willingly give of their time.” 

Sue finds satisfaction in being able to draw on the experience she gained in high-powered corporate roles. She combines that experience with her lifelong love of wildlife.  

“I’d like to see Australia retain koalas because right now we are on a trajectory to lose them,” she concludes. “Unless we are ambassadors for koalas they won’t win.”  

Congratulations on your Citizen of the Year nomination, Sue!

Read about fellow nominee, Jamie Donovan.

The post Sue Ashton – Koala Ambassador appeared first on Coastbeat.

“I’m involved in a lot of things but it’s just who I am – I grew up in this community so I’m trying to give back,” says proud Birpai and Worimi man Jamie Donovan. 

Jamie remembers his childhood in Wauchope surrounded by extended family. They were often out on country – fishing, hunting and gathering – teaching Jamie about his culture. It’s something he’s determined to pass on to his children. Jamie is a father of three and cares for two of his nieces. 

“I take the time to sit down and teach them language, artwork and dance,” Jamie explains. “My boys have come through the ranks in our local dance group and really enjoy embracing their culture.”

Jamie describes the pride he feels when his sons Peytyn and Jye come home asking for help with language as they’ve had a request to give the Acknowledgement of Country at school events. 

Connecting Cultures

Jamie’s children aren’t the only young people who look up to him. He works with the Department of Education across 43 schools running mentoring programs for Aboriginal boys and assisting students who’ve become disengaged. Jamie facilitates cultural awareness training for the staff members, principals and directors, too. 

Such a role would be more than enough for most people, but it doesn’t stop there. Jamie is the Chairperson of the Wauchope Bunyah Aboriginal Land Council as well as the Chairperson of Mid North Coast Regional Aboriginal Men’s Group. Oh, and did we mention he’s studying at university and is an active member of the Beechwood Rural Fire Service? How about the fact that he’s an in-demand artist? 

Art for Reconciliation

What started out as a way to de-stress after work has turned into a meaningful exploration of his cultural art and stories. Jamie collaborates with schools, childcare centres and sporting clubs to create artwork for t-shirts and murals. 

“Many local government and non-government organisations want to promote Aboriginal history so this is a way to support their journey along the reconciliation process,” he explains.  

So what motivates a man to give so much of himself? 

“I want to be a good role model for my kids,” Jamie states without hesitation. “I want to make sure future generations are left with a legacy that they can be proud to continue.” 

Coastbeat would like to congratulate Jamie of his Citizen of the Year nomination!

Community Group of the Year 

• Revive Lake Cathie
• St Agnes’ Catholic Parish Flood Recovery Group
• The Wells Family (Stewart, Josh, Luke & Blake).

Environmental Citizen of the Year 

• Susan Baker
• Peter Fitzroy
• Dr Deborah Geronimi

Young Citizen of the Year 

• Billiejane Ashton
• Georgia Instrell
• Georgia Ryan.

Senior Citizen of the Year 

• Larry Brook
• Reg McGlashan
• Daphne Salt
• Holder Saunderz
• Kingsley Searle

Citizen of the Year 

• Sue Ashton
• Ann Drury
• Jamie Donovan
• Jeanette McCoubrie
• David Tunstread

Read Aunty Patricia Walker’s reflection on January 26

The post An Aboriginal Leader Creating a Lasting Legacy appeared first on Coastbeat.

Develop Your Brand and Electronic Press Kit – Thursday Jan 27

Join Beehive PR’s Sammie Anschau, Liz Browne and Sosefina Fuamoli. Sose will run through getting your bio and assets together, and Sammie will take you through the basics of PR + getting that email pitch on point. Liz will get you digital/online ‘media ready’ and there will be a takeaway kit for attendees. 

Book now

How Can Artists Continue to Book Live Music in the Region – Thursday February 3

Join Casey O’Shaughnessy, senior booking agent at Select Music, Australia’s largest independent agency. She represents a roster of Australian and NZ artists that includes Amy Shark, The Veronicas, Skegss, Ruby Fields, Stella Donnelly, Kian, The Beths, The Chats and many others. Casey is a finalist in the 2021 Women in Music (Live Touring field) Awards and was nominated for Booking Agent of The Year at the inaugural Industry Observer Awards.

Book now

Healthy Mindsets & Work with CHESS Connect Business Resilience – Tuesday February 8

Presented by Emily Denver, Workplace Wellbeing Specialist and Jo Facey, Business Resilience Mentor. The Business Resilience Project is a free workplace wellbeing service, providing small business operators with the tools and guidance needed to support resilience and mental fitness for both themselves and their workforce.

Programming and Marketing Live Music in Your Venue  – A Best Practice Masterclass – Thursday February 10 

Presented by Tracey Griffiths from Kick Music. More info to come!

The post Masterclasses for Musos appeared first on Coastbeat.

“You have to get the right fit for that foot,” explains Helen Tooms from Manning Shoes. “It’s important to teach children the difference between a good fit and a poor fit, good quality versus poor quality.”

When a pair of young feet make their way into Manning Shoes, Helen begins by observing and measuring. She asks customers what they’re looking for and tries to strike a balance if wants and needs are at odds. 

“Some children come in with just one shoe in mind – perhaps their friends have it, or they like the style,” Helen says. “But unfortunately, their foot is either too narrow or too wide for that particular shoe.”

Helen uses her experience and brand knowledge to find the right fit in a similar style. 

“They soon come around when they realise the shoe that’s popular may not be good for their feet,” Helen acknowledges.

“We do have quite a few brands – Clarks has a good range of the larger sizing whereas Rocs are more for the narrow foot.”  

More Bang for Your Buck? 

Unfortunately, buying shoes a size too big so your child gets more wear out of them tends to backfire. Helen says they often lack ankle support which can lead to all sorts of problems. But there are solutions.   

“A lot of shoes come with an extra inner-sole,” she explains. “So if they are just slightly too big you can put that extra inner sole in and remove it as your child grows.” 

Helen is aware that most people are on a budget and says Manning Shoes offers lay-by plans, Afterpay and ZipPay. Shopping during sales also means customers can get quality school shoes for less. 

Organisation Pays Off  

This year, Helen is encouraging families to start shopping earlier than usual. COVID-19 related supply chain issues mean some stock is in limited supply or is taking longer than usual to arrive. 

“Dr Martens shoes are very popular with senior school students but it’s quite difficult to get them in the country at the moment as they’re from England,” she says.

It also pays off to double check the school’s uniform policy and requirements, something Helen says has caused issues in past years.   

Visit Manning Shoes at Port Central today! Check out the latest summer styles while you’re in the centre.

The post Cool for School with Manning Shoes appeared first on Coastbeat.