When and why did you first become interested in art?

Art has always been in my life. I’m not sure when this started, but I’ve always liked making things. There were encouraging teachers along the way; this includes high school teacher, Pauline Fuller and local artist and teacher, Fay Porter. Art School was a natural progression, and I gained a degree at Northern Rivers College in Lismore, followed by a Graduate Diploma at Sydney College of the Arts.

What materials do you prefer to work with?

A wide range of materials and techniques are used in my work. There is a certain dichotomy, where I tend to use oils en plein air and acrylics in the studio.

The outdoor oil paintings are direct impressions of the day. The studio works are multi layered pieces. In recent drawings, I have rediscovered charcoal and pencils. Lino block prints are another medium that I’m revisiting. Collage and mixed media are a mainstay.

Why have you chosen to exhibit at Gallery 126?

Gallery 126 supports local regional artists and the local arts industry. Gallery 126 fills the role of a commercial gallery in a regional centre, which not many regional galleries can maintain. It is exciting to be a part of the local art community and represented at a supportive gallery. Many local artists are landscape painters, and there is a sense of community and identity through plein air painting.

What can we expect to see at your exhibition?

This exhibition is the culmination of work from the local area, over the past few years. I have paintings, drawings, lino block prints, collage and photographs.

The Dangars Falls paintings are plein air, which are painted outdoors on site. Others are worked up in the studio, referencing drawings and photographs.

The attraction to stronger contrasts and bold shapes is a progression to simplification and hints at abstraction. The charcoal and printing tie in with the use of strong dark shapes. The pull between detail and simplification is part of the challenge, and both are represented in the exhibition.

Where do you get your inspiration from? 

The local landscape is a constant source of inspiration. I am attracted to the strong contrasts in the rock and trees, patterns of light and dark that occurs in places like Dangars Falls and Bald Rock. Working en plein air allows me to record the seasons and weather patterns. We have gone from drought to flood in the last few years. This is traced in the series of paintings in this exhibition.

Artists who inspire you?

Fred Williams is the quintessential Australian landscape painter. Fred made it cool to paint gum trees again, and landscape became a part of the Australian psyche.

Other inspirations have been the abstract expressionists like Motherwell, Kline and Still for their use of bold black shapes.

Margaret Preston is also someone I have always empathised with. The direction in my work is toward further simplification of the landscape and allegories that occur.

Exhibition dates

The opening is Friday 3 February, 5pm to 7pm. The exhibition will run from 3 February to 25 February.

The fun started as soon as the Armidale family entered the park. Thirty minutes prior to the main pool presentations, they got to enjoy a seal and dolphin kiss.

Next they moved on to see the ‘Marine Magic Presentation’, which was a delightful thirty minutes of interesting and entertaining information, as well as exciting routines that showcased the natural abilities of both seals and dolphins. The presentation was highly interactive, with Nicole and Bill’s family given the opportunity to get involved.

After the show, they were encouraged to pat and play ball with the dolphins, with a trainer supervising the interaction. Nicole informed us here at FOCUS that the highlight of the day was the ‘Family Dolphin Experience’, where both the grandparents and children enjoyed twenty minutes in the water with a dolphin. “It was amazing to touch and play with such a magnificent creature,” says Nicole. “We all really enjoyed playing with the dolphin. I will cherish the photos of my family giving the dolphin a great big kiss. And the smiles on our grandkids’ faces were unforgettable, as they gave the dolphin a hug and a tickle on her tongue.

“What a special time we had! Hearing the dolphin speak, feeding her a fish and viewing her underwater are memories that we will always treasure.”

The Pet Porpoise Pool has been operating as a rescue and rehabilitation centre for over 41 years now and is a well known and loved, award winning tourist attraction for providing hands on interaction with animals, while providing education about marine animals, conservation and sustainability.

The aim of the park is to connect people with these animals, so that there is a mutual respect and consideration of their place out in the wild. Half of the animals who go into care at the Park are rescued and rehabilitated and remain well cared for at the PPP, while others have been transported to the facility or born at the Park.

Other than Seaworld on the Gold Coast, the Pet Porpoise Pool is the only Marine Park which holds a license nationally to house Inshore Bottlenose Dolphins.

The park has 5 dolphins and 15 seals, with a variety of fish in the Reef Tank, Sea Turtles and Little Blue Penguins.

For more information, phone 6659 1900.

Why did you decide to become an opera singer ?

I sang from a very early age; I would simply call it my destiny in life. My parents were often told by professional people on panels at eisteddfods or present at concerts I performed in that I should be trained. Luckily, my mother resisted all these suggestions at too early an age. I then followed the right channels, I believe, and prepared to audition for the Qld Conservatorium; I was accepted mostly on vocal merit.

How has your career progressed ?

My career began with Opera Queensland in their Choice Voices program, singing Second Lady in The Magic Flute and also in solo concerts with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Since then, I have worked extensively in Australia and internationally. Some of the highlights have been as soloist at the Shalyapin music festival in Kazan, Russia; singing at the Sydney Opera House; Aida at the Helicon Theater, Moscow; gala concerts for the opening of the Galina Vischnewskaja Opera Centre, Moscow; televised performances for the Bolshoi Theatre and Tchaikovsky Hall, Moscow; Lisa in Pique Dame for the Ravenna Festival, Italy; televised performances of Nedda in Pagliacci in Lithuania; Rosalinde in Die Fledermaus in Germany; Pamina in The Magic Flute and Amelia in Un Ballo in Maschera in Australia.

I also sang the title role in Tosca for 4MBS-FM, Australia and in 2006 took the roles of Donna Anna in Don Giovanni for the 4MBS-FM Music Festival in Brisbane and Rosalinde in Opera Queensland’s production of Die Fledermaus, which was performed in Brisbane and then toured Queensland. More recently, I sang the role of Gertrude in Hansel and Gretel for Opera Queensland, was soprano soloist for Opera in the Markets in Melbourne, performed The Countess in The Marriage of Figaro for State Opera of South Australia and appeared with the Queensland and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestras.

In 2009, I sang Minnie in a new production of La Fanciulla del West for State Opera of South Australia (SOSA) and appeared in Opera Australia’s New Year’s Eve Gala in Sydney. The following year, I sang Minnie, as well as the title role in Tosca for Opera Australia. Last year I appeared as Lady Macbeth in Macbeth, Curly’s Wife in Of Mice and Men and Musetta in La Bohème for Opera Australia. This year I will be undertaking the title role in Aida for Opera Australia’s Sydney Winter Season and will appear as Musetta for SOSA.

What does it take to make a career in opera, and how dedicated do you have to be?

A tenacity, love and tenacity! I have worked with great and amazing teachers on a few continents, but taught myself the most out of all of them on the actual journey. I was determined I could always find the answers myself once put on the path by others. You have to be like that, or you can’t survive in this career.

What attracts you to a career as a performer, and which singers do you have as exemplars?

Number one – THE MUSIC. Singing Puccini and Verdi is always a privilege and always a highlight. Singing in the Sydney Opera House looms large on that list. Maria Callas and Joan Sutherland are my exemplars.

Your favourite operas and parts … and why? Do you think opera is attractive to young people ?

Puccini, Verdi are a big inspiration to me. La Bohème, Tosca, Minnie in La Fanciulla del West, Lady Macbeth, Violetta in Traviata. Aida. All sublime! I think the arts speak to all who are really open to the experience and who are ready for passion in their lives. Not everyone likes the same things, and that is human nature. I think Australia has lots of programs in place where they interact with a young public, such as school tours and the like. Education is essential to the continuation of all the arts.

Why did you accept the invitation to sing at Opera in the Paddock? What do you think about performing in the country, on stage, in a paddock? Is it something you’ve experienced before?

I think most opera singers are acquainted with singing outdoors. This particular gig has actually become quite well known in the operatic community, and a lot of my colleagues have performed at Opera in the Paddock. I am, for one, delighted to take part.

Opera in the Paddock 2012 

Opera in the Paddock enters its second decade this year, with Jacqueline Mabardi as one of the new faces on stage for the concert at Mimosa, Inverell on Saturday, March 24 and Twilight Recital at the Inverell Town Hall, on March 23. Opera Australia, once again the performance partner, is sponsoring conductor Phoebe Briggs and a pianist.

A group of female singers from Inverell, Armidale and the region will provide  several choruses for the evening, including the popular Nun’s Chorus. On the Paddock stage with Jacqueline Mabardi will be tenor James Eggleston, baritone Barry Ryan, mezzo sopranos Elizabeth Lewis and Elizabeth Campbell, and soprano Peta Blyth. The program includes excerpts from Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Verdi’s  Il Trovatore.

Opera North West Ltd receives sponsorship from Arts NSW, Destination NSW, Opera Australia, Inverell Shire Council, NAB, Regional ABC & Classic FM, Malachite Resources and the German Consul.

Thanks Jacqueline.

Contributed by Rosemary Mort.

The sanctuary was established in 0ctober 2008 to care for Brumbies removed from Guy Fawkes River National Park and to conduct a breeding and adoption program to preserve blood lines of horses under the management of STB, or Save the Brumbies. A second sanctuary managed by STB is near Bellingen and cares for horses not suited to adoption.

On arrival, visitors were greeted by Jan Carter, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Save the Brumbies Inc. tax deductible charity (STB) and a small team of volunteers dedicated to the saving and protection of wild Australian horses known as Brumbies. The word Brumby may have originated from James Brumby, who in the early 1800s released horses into the wild; however, the Aboriginal word ‘baroomby’ also means wild horse.

Jan, a professional musician, who plays both classical guitar and harp, was outraged when confronted with the news in the year 2000 that aerial shooting had slaughtered 600 wild horses  in the Guy Fawkes River National Park near Armidale. Some horses were wounded, only to die some time later from their wounds. Jan had previously ridden trails in the area and seen the wild horses in their natural environment. As a result, Save the Brumbies Inc. was established and following negotiations, a Steering Committee was set up leading to horses being removed from the parks and placed in the care of interested horse groups. It should be noted that wild horses are still regarded as feral animals in Australia – unlike the USA, where Mustangs are protected and heritage valued.

Jan has personally produced a music CD titled Run with the Wind, with moving arrangements of classical guitar and harp dedicated to the Australian Brumby. Proceeds from sales of the CD are just one of the fundraising methods used for the charity. She will not own a mobile phone, as her precious time is taken up with caring for the horses and maintaining the property; however, each day includes responding to enquiries by email, as well as keeping sponsors updated on their horses.

The Bellingen Sanctuary homes on average around 15 horses cared for by Jan. These horses are in need of high care due to being orphaned, injured, down in condition or aged. The care for these horses is provided by sponsorships, where sponsors can visit and be kept updated on the progress of their chosen animal. It is a highly rewarding and personal way to help the wild horses. During the recent floods at Bellingen over $20,000 of damage occurred to the Bellingen property, but it failed to meet criteria for flood relief.

Jan and STB have also been involved with organisations and governments in other states, including Queensland, where aerial slaughter is still permitted.

Horses are still being shot, or trapped in National Parks and consigned to abattoirs for slaughter. Driving into the New England sanctuary to the right were four mares with their young foals on a large field of healthy grasses, benefiting from good rain falls throughout 2011. To the left were two Apsley Gorge Brumbies (Tictoc and Safina), transported to the Open Day by the Oxley Heritage Horse Association. A little further along could be seen Brigitte Bardot, a Palomino sponsored by the actress of the same name. Parking in the undefined space near the homestead, one could see four young yearlings in another field – three ready for adoption and one still undergoing training. The horses at the sanctuary are Guy Fawkes Brumbies, whose bloodlines can be traced back to a stallion named Saladin from the early 1900s. These same bloodline horses were used by the Australian infantry in both world wars and made famous by the Lighthorsemen. In another larger area of some 200 acres were three stallions not seen on the day due to the rugged country. The sanctuary was chosen due to terrain that best replicated the environment the horses came from when captured. The generosity of several people led to the availability of the 1,375 acre Guyra property, and all funding comes from private sources and fundraising by STB.

So far there have been over 200 horses adopted from the STB program and many others sponsored. There are many people on the waiting list for horses; however, due to the higher than usual rainfalls of 2011, few horses are currently being removed from the Guy Fawkes National Park, where it is estimated that around 500 horses roam. Of concern is that with strong growth within the park, breeding may be higher than usual. It is National Parks policy that all horses will be removed within 5 years – a concern to STB, as government policy may revert to earlier unacceptable management and controls.

Jan Carter and the STB would like to see two full-time experienced horsemen employed by National Parks rather than the Park Rangers, already fully occupied with other duties, being used. This, she feels, will be the best management, ensuring the government achieves its goals and that all horses are saved and humanely relocated to appropriate groups.

The NSW Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner is Patron of the New England Brumby Sanctuary.

During the Open Day, visitors were given a display on the handling and training of young horses who are part of the breeding and adoption program held at the sanctuary. In a heartwarming display, Megan Hyde, working with the young colts and fillies, showed her skills in preparing the young horses. The colt STB Basil was touched for the very first time by human hands.

As new horses arrive in the sanctuary, both Megan and Jan are excited to name the new residents based on themes that have included music, historical figures and characters.

The small and very select breeding program ensures the conservation of the blood lines of the Guy Hawkes Brumbies.

As a result, the Australian Brumby Horse Register has been established and horses are now seen at selected shows. It costs around $1,200 for a horse to be prepared for adoption, and each horse is carefully matched to his new owners.

The horses are always in good condition, disease free, and Brumby owners will swear by their loyalty, trust and trainability.

Maybe one day we will even see these Heritage Horses play their role in Anzac Day Marches, working with children and people with disabilities and as an attraction for local and overseas tourists.

The future for the Guy Hawkes Brumbies is unclear and with organisations such as Save the Brumbies Inc. the founders are also getting on in years. As a charity and volunteer based program, not only is financial support needed, but also suitably dedicated individuals to carry on this work into the future and to preserve this wonderful Australian icon. Of course, this may all become a lot easier if both Federal and State Governments recognise the Brumby as an integral and important icon in Australian History and provide funding and protection to our beautiful wild horses.

How long have you lived in Armidale?

I was born in Armidale Hospital and have lived here all my life. Apart from the beautiful summers, Armidale has education, music, drama, scenic views and for those keen bushwalkers like myself, the National Parks.

What motivated you to start up the New England Friendship Network Group?

I started the New England Friendship Network Group on 26 March 2008 at the Armidale Bowling Club. Back in 2007, I found myself in unfamiliar territory – alone.

This was a very difficult and dark period of my life; however, after many counselling sessions and time to reflect, I began to realise there were others out there feeling the same way – especially at Christmas time. Even though I had friends, most of whom were married, I felt I needed to do something not only for myself but for others in the same situation – over fifty and finding it difficult to socialise and fit in.

This triggered the idea of starting a group for like-minded people – those who felt alone and those finding the older you get, the harder it is to start mixing again (this is the main issue for most people joining our group).

How many members do you have?

This year we are celebrating our fourth year of operation, and since our first meeting with 10 people in attendance, 100 members have registered with the New England Friendship Network Group.

How do you make the group fun?

The New England Friendship Network group actively participates in bush walking, picnics, visiting wineries, ten pin bowling, tennis, movies, dancing, BBQs, concerts, weekends away and breakfast together on market Sundays, to name a few.

It is what you make of it, and the current members certainly know how to enjoy themselves and have fun.

What do you get out of it, Christine?

I love to organise – functions, activities and surprises etc. I get a lot of satisfaction seeing people regain their own power and start to enjoy their life again. Being in the company of happy people wanting to enjoy life has a contagious effect. We have members from all walks of life, all with something to contribute and share with the group – this becomes very rewarding.

The group also has support from organisations such as the Bowling Club, where we hold our meetings every month – and recently our Christmas party. The manager, Phil, has supported our group from the beginning and continues to help out in any way he can.

Wayne from the Ten Pin Bowling Club is another person and organisation always willing to support our group – especially each month when we hold our bowling night, serving excellent meals and with friendly service.

What sort of feedback have you received from the members of the New England Friendship Network Group?

Regaining one’s confidence has been the overwhelming factor members have mentioned since joining the group. Also, having someone organise the events has been much appreciated.

We can all become very busy at times, so to belong to a group that arranges activities, members feel they belong to a group that cares and understands without judgement.

Is it a singles club?

No – it is a friendship group for singles over 50. When I found myself alone and over 50, I decided I wanted to still enjoy life and mix with other like-minded people. This is a great way to start socialising again in a safe environment.

What are some of the group’s special memories?

Apart from trips to Valla Beach, Moree Spa Baths and weekends at Girraween National Park, the most memorable event was the ‘Relay for Life’. One of our members (Barb) was diagnosed with cancer, and the group decided to be part of the fundraiser for cancer. Even though Barb is no longer with us, it brought the group closer together and made us realise that life is short and we should all enjoy every moment we have.

Do you hold regular meetings?

Monthly meetings are held at the Armidale Bowling Club, where members gather for lunch at noon, followed by the meeting at 1pm.

I facilitate the meeting, and members are encouraged to participate and discuss activities and ideas for the upcoming month. A newsletter is then sent to all members outlining activities held on most weekends.

Plans for 2012?

Apart from the usual activities planned throughout the year, we look forward to new members joining our group and becoming part of our family. I never envisaged that the New England Friendship Group would grow to the extent it has and have so much impact on so many people’s lives. We look forward with anticipation to a bigger and better year.

Who is eligible to join, and is there an age requirement?

If you are single, alone and over fifty with a sense of humour and wanting to get back into meeting others, we invite you to take the next step and come and join us at the next New England Friendship Network lunch and meeting – the first Sunday of the month at the Armidale Bowling Club at noon (no membership fee).

Alternately, you can call me (Christine) on 0488 726 105 or Judy on 6771 1237.

The New England Friendship Network respects people’s privacy and is not involved in personal counselling or dating services.

Loneliness has only recently emerged as a disturbing feature of society and remains largely hidden in communities.

Loneliness and health are interlinked and remain difficult to detect – it’s the quality of friendships that matter, not the number of people we surround ourselves with.

It can be very easy to feel alone even if you are surrounded by a crowd. ‘We humans’ are social beings, and without regular contact we can experience loneliness.

Thanks Christine.

Trevor, what is your own defence training?

I was a Regular Army armoured corps officer of the rank of Major, having graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy and Duntroon. I served on tanks in Australia and on operations with the Peace Monitoring Group in Bougainville, prior to transferring to the Army Reserves 12^th/16^th Hunter River Lancers, and starting at TAS in 2003.

The TAS Cadet Unit has a very proud history?

Very much so. It was formed in 1897 when the school was three years old, because it was felt at the time that to “infuse a military spirit and military discipline into school life would be to our highest advantage”. Nowadays, there is more of a focus on leadership training through outdoor adventure than on ‘military spirit and discipline’. In saying that, the school is very proud of the ultimate sacrifice made by 96 old boys and four staff, who have given their lives in conflicts ranging from the Boer War to Afghanistan, in the service of their country.

This has also been honoured by the school in ventures overseas?

Yes. In 2011 there were two such expeditions. Six boys visited a number of the First World War Western Front battlefields, and a group of seven TAS students, many accompanied by their fathers, walked the Kokoda Track and similarly paid respect to serving soldiers at important sites along the way. TAS first walked the Kokoda Track in 1997 to commemorate the centenary of the Cadet Unit.

Having led two Kokoda expeditions, I can vouch for the exhilaration of completing such a physical and emotional challenge, and the rich opportunity for parents and their children to consolidate a special bond through experiencing common hardships.

The TAS Cadet Unit’s contribution to events such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services in the Armidale region are quite visible, but less so is the annual leadership training camp. Tell us a bit about that.

The style of training is designed to promote and develop boys’ initiative, teamwork and decision making skills. Additionally, boys in leadership appointments are then trained to effectively communicate their intent to the group in order to successfully complete respective missions. Three courses were conducted concurrently, with 60 boys in total supported by 10 instructors from TAS and the Army. The course was conducted at the TAS Trade Training Centre for two and a half days, followed by another two and a half days in the field at Jeogla Station in the Styx River area. Boys volunteer to undertake the training – itself an example of leadership.

So what did each course involve?

The junior leaders course was focused on introductory leadership at section level (a section is a group of nine cadets), for employment as a section commander. Training was in the fundamental principles of leadership, traits, qualities and values of leaders, navigation by day and night, and communication skills. During the field phase, cadets were exposed to a series of impromptu leadership, initiative and teamwork scenarios, coupled with navigation across country by day and night.

The senior leaders course is focused on leadership at platoon level. These cadets, who had all completed the junior leaders course in 2010, were trained at an advanced level in leadership principles, navigation and communication. In the field they participated in arduous navigation and leadership exercises by day and night in a range of weather conditions.

The cadet under officers course, for senior boys wanting appointments as platoon commanders and company commanders, revised leadership and navigation training and then focused primarily on communications skills. CUOs were trained in prepared pubic speaking, briefing, speaker introductions and thank you, and impromptu speaking. In the field, CUOs were challenged in teamwork, problem solving, leadership and navigation activities.

Trish, what did your son Michael get out of the course?

The weather conditions were horrible, but he felt that made the challenges even more rewarding once they had completed them. Michael believes the skills he has learnt will give him a great headstart when applying for his first part-time job and hopefully show future employers he is prepared to learn and eventually take on a leadership role in their organisation.
The boys do undertake some challenging activities. As a mother, weren’t you worried?

We tend to want to protect our children but if they can experience, develop and grow within a controlled risk environment, then they will be well equipped to embrace future opportunities.  The weather was far from perfect and it did add another dimension to their challenges, but what doesn’t break them makes them stronger.

To be confident to give anything a ‘go’ and not shy away from situations means that our men of tomorrow will be better able to look after their mothers of today!

Thank you Trevor and Trish.

Armidale’s community pantomime Robin Hood; Lost in the Tights is a revised and localised production and opens for four performances at the Town Hall on November 26.

After working together for the last eight years, social entrepreneur Pam Menzies and well known local thespian and playwright Warren Bartik have developed a tried and true formula.

They put their heads together every second year to engage as many as possible of the city’s movers and shakers (and least experienced actors) and put them on stage to raise money for Armidale Hospital.

That means the Mayor, a couple of General Managers and Councillors, the UNE Vice-Chancellor, local MP Richard Torbay, a good sprinkling of doctors and nurses, academics, teachers, city business people and members of the community.

Pam says that at the beginning it is difficult to coax the novice actors onto the stage but after a few rehearsals, it becomes just as difficult to get them off it.

“It is such fun; they enjoy it so much and as they get more confident, they start adding bits here and there,” she says. “Once they’ve entered into the spirit of it, we have no trouble getting them back for the next production if they can spare the time.”

Who could forget Inspector Matt Lynch in a fairy dress in the first production, Peter Pan, Richard Torbay in tights in the title role and his wife Rosemary as Wendy flying high across the stage at the Old Teachers College.

“I was warned after Peter Pan that I should never wear tights again,” Torbay quips. “But in this version of Robin Hood, I become the role model – everyone wants to wear tights.”

Many veterans of that first production signed on for more, performing in subsequent performances of Alice Lost in the Tablelands and A-lad-in the Tablelands.

Armidale Hospital has benefitted to the tune of $50,000, but Pam believes there is just as much collateral in the community building aspect of the venture.

“To get all those people together to collaborate on something so totally different to their normal day to day working life is very bonding,” she says. “I always believe it is as much for the actors as the audience.”

Nevertheless, with 50 actors on stage this year, many scenes and a large off stage crew, the Panto is a logistical nightmare to organise. In the past, casts have reached as high as 80 on stage, as well as backstage crew.

It is the city’s biggest production outside university graduations, with writer / director Warren Bartik, associate director and choreographer Sue Mann, and assistant producers Narelle Marshall and Poh Woodland and many volunteers working behind the scenes to bring it together. This year Dr Robin Diebold has joined the team as co-scriptwriter.

The localised plot broadly follows the Robin Hood story, with Peter McGarry as the villainous Sheriff of Hillgrove and Council Engineer David Stellar his sidekick Sir Guy of Gostwyck. Peter Georkas plays Prince John and ADC General Manager, Shane Burns, is The Executioner. On the side of the goodies there is Mayor Peter Ducat as King Richard, fresh from the Crusades and his intended Duchess Alyse, played by Kim Bastow. Panto veteran Robin Diebold plays the Soothsayer.

Action man Robin Hood becomes a fashion statement in tights, with Guyra Council General Manager, David Cushway, as Little John, and Armidale Dumaresq Councillor, Bruce Whan, as Friar Muck, his devoted fashionista disciples. All the merry men are a tights band.

The panto starts with a weary Robin of Rockvale just returned from the Macquarie Street Crusades. He teams up with the Merry Men of the Pine Forest to battle the evil Sheriff of Hillgrove and his sidekick, Sir Guy of Gostwick, who have imposed a new charcoal tax on the hapless folk of Guyralladale.

The Sheriff has grand designs for Lady Marion, who waits patiently with her faithful maidens in Boolamimbah Castle for good men … any men … to break the shackles of a boring humdrum life under the wardship of the real estate crazed Prince John.

An obligatory archery contest lures Robin to his capture and brings new meaning to hanging out at Boolamimbah!

The big questions then become: can the Merry Men save Robin? Can Tony Kelly really catch arrows? Who is the mysterious Soothsayer? And will King Richard return in time to save the day?

You may know all the answers, but it would be a shame to pre-empt them. With just four performances on offer, this is a fun production for a good cause and not to be missed.

Tell us …

who organized the trip?

The group comprised students from NEGS, The Armidale School and PLC Armidal and involved helping disadvantaged students in Thailand.

What sort of things/activities did you do while you were there?

Our schedule was packed full of many activities. We visited an elephant hospital at Lampang, where we had a chance to ride rehabilitated elephants. At a school for the blind in Lampang, we learnt more about how children live with their disabilities, spending time with them playing games – including some tactile games we took with us – and just being with them. At the McKean Rehabilitation Centre for Leprosy in Chiang Mai, we learnt about Leprosy itself and what the Centre does to help its patients live with the disease and achieve the most normal life they possibly can. We also helped them clean up some of their gardens and built them a compost heap, which was harder than you would think. And our final visit was to the Agape Orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS, which was truly inspiring.

In what way?

It was definitely an experience I will never forget. While there, we mostly just spent time being with the children: playing with them and doing special activities with them. It was amazing to see how happy they were, even though they were so ill and suffering from the horrible disease.

You were there when the floods we’ve seen on television started. How did this impact you?

While we were at the McKean Centre, they experienced serious flooding. So we helped to protect their houses by sand bagging, moving furniture and doing anything we possibly could to help them out. The floods also meant we were unable to go to the night markets as much as we had hoped; they are really interesting, but the streets were waist deep in water!

How did you find the food?

The food was great. We attended a cooking course in Chiang Mai; it was well worth it, and we all enjoyed learning more about Thai culture through the food at this particular activity.

How did you find the trip, and what impressed you about your experiences there?

I really loved the trip and found it to be a very rewarding experience that will never be forgotten. Thai people are so warm and welcoming, and it was beautiful to see that people living in these difficult situations; for example, living in poverty, living through terrible illnesses and disabilities, could be so happy and so grateful for everything that they have got – no matter how little it may be.

What were some of the things that were very different to your life in Australia – and the things that were a bit more similar?

Their methods of transportation are definitely a lot different to those that we are used to in Australia. The food is very different, with lots of rice and noodles. The people are very carefree and laid back, so I guess that is something that we share.

What did you learn from the project? Did you learn anything about yourself?

I think that the most important lesson I will take away from the service trip is not to take my life for granted and to make use of all the opportunities that I am provided with, because there are many others who will never be able to live the life that I do. Seeing how happy people with nothing were helped me to realize this. It was a truly wonderful opportunity the three schools were able to offer, and we were all touched by what we saw and did.

Karen, what do you think everyone got out of the trip?

While the sandbagging was one of the more adventurous highlights, I hoped in time the group would understand the enormous contributions being made by the adults from Western countries they met, who had given up their jobs to help overcome disadvantage. In our society, Christianity has become contestable, as we are ever so quickly turning our affections towards pluralism, atheistic secularism and materialism. So it was wonderful to be with a group of students who had to leave their phones, iPods and computers at home and be challenged by those who had given so much in service to others in the name of Christ.

Thanks Marissa and Karen.

What prompted you to become involved in Variety, the children’s charity?

In 2001 at 13 months old, my daughter Eliza was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome – a rare condition that causes severe developmental delays.

Eliza was already in early intervention programs; however, once we had diagnosis and a level of understanding about her ongoing needs, her therapists suggested we seek funding support from Variety, the children’s charity, for equipment she required.

My family has experienced the work of Variety first hand and ten years on, Variety still plays an active role in empowering Eliza to live, laugh and learn.

In 2002 I decided that it was my turn to give something back to Variety and raise funds so that other sick, disadvantaged and special needs children could benefit from the life changing programs that Variety fund.

I joined to become a member of Variety Newcastle Region and took part in the annual Variety Bash. Since then, I have participated in 5 Newcastle Bashes, held positions on the Regional Committee and now find myself working full-time with a truly rewarding organisation.

What is Variety’s involvement with the Armidale and NE community?

In 2009, the annual Variety Bash meandered into Armidale and allocated some funding to Sandon Public School. I was on that Bash and remember the smiles of not only the children, but the entire school community when we contributed to the playground equipment.

Variety has no boundaries when assisting sick, disadvantaged or special needs children. In 2010, it is estimated that Variety funded 75 different medical conditions and had a positive impact on in excess of 30,000 children. Each year Variety receives submissions for funding from all areas across the New England, including Armidale, Inverell, Guyra and surrounding communities. The appeals process is transparent; however, the funding is discreet.

Therefore, there are many health professionals and clinicians working behind the scenes within the New England community to ensure every opportunity to improve the quality of life of an individual child or family is being maximised.

Give us an example of persons you have assisted from this area?

The exact recipients are confidential, but a couple of examples of the appeals that we have funded are wheel chair modifications for a family vehicle, wheel chairs, playground modifications and a children’s program funded through our Caring for Kids initiative.

What is your vision for this region?

Variety currently funds all applications from the New England out of Newcastle. Our Newcastle office is one of only two regional centres across Variety Australia and covers Newcastle, Hunter, Armidale, Tamworth, Mid North and North Coast.

These locations encounter high incident rates of special needs children, and appeals for assistance are significant.

Our vision is to establish regional branches across Armidale, Tamworth, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour co-ordinated by a Regional Committee responsible for fundraising initiatives to support the needs of their communities. We chose Armidale to be the first of our regional expansion, because the community has embraced us before.

We are really hoping to benchmark our results from Armidale when we establish the other networks. Essentially, Variety is looking for volunteers to form a committee and co-ordinate a few events per year and generate much needed income.

Tell us about the Variety Santa Fun Run?

Our first event on the Armidale calendar is fast approaching. On Sunday 27 November, Variety will be holding the annual Santa Fun Run/Stroll simultaneously across 6 major cities, as well as Newcastle and Armidale. Entry is just $25 per person, $50 family or $200 for a corporate team of 10. Your entry includes a Santa Suit and also raises much needed funds for sick, disadvantaged and special needs kids. Join us at Curtis Park for a 3 km walk along the shared cycleway and then head across to the Wicklow Hotel, where Santa’s Little Helpers will indulge in a sausage sizzle.

How can people sign up for the Santa Fun Run?

YOU NEED TO DO IT NOW!

Get your work mates, school mates, neighbours, family and friends and be a part of the inaugural Armidale Variety Santa Fun Run/Stroll.

Simply send an email with your contact details to armidale@varietynsw.org.au and you will be sent a registration kit electronically, OR PHONE Kim on (02) 4965 4911.

How can our readers donate to Variety?

Donations are easy and most welcomed. You can visit our website at www.varietynsw.org.au and go to our DONATE NOW page. Alternatively, if a business would like to make a donation on the day in front of a large audience, we will have plenty of willing representatives waiting to accept the cheque.

Variety also has the facility for Workplace Giving. Deductions are made from employees’ salaries and donated to Variety. Did you know, if your business has 10 employees and you all gave $2 per week, you could give a disabled child much needed orthotics to help them walk unassisted. It is not expensive, when you realise that the rewards are priceless.

What’s coming up in 2012?

2012 is quite exciting for Variety. The changes to the not- for-profit sector with increased accountability will see a number of organisations either merge or dissolve. Variety is well positioned to absorb funding opportunities this will create.

In May 2012, Variety Newcastle Region will celebrate its 21st Bash. We are off to Lightning Ridge via Gunnedah, and it is already shaping up to be our biggest event yet.

The annual Newcastle Variety Bash raises in excess of $300,000 for the kids and is a week long celebration for 11 months of fundraising.

Thanks Peter.

Gina, you’ve both been instructors at the Equestrian Centre for some time. What qualifications and industry accreditation did you bring to the Centre?

I have been a full-time coach here for just over three years now and Andrew became involved on a part-time basis initially and has become progressively more involved as demand for his services grew. We are both accredited Equestrian Australia (EA) coaches, with a background as elite level Three Day Event riders. I am a triple accredited Level 2 EA Coach, with Level 2 coaching qualifications in Eventing, Dressage and General. I am also a Coach Educator and am currently completing a Masters in Education (Elite Sports Coaching) at Sydney University. Andrew is an accredited Level 1 EA General  Coach with a business management background and extensive experience in training and producing competition horses.

Andrew, what is your role as Centre Manager?

I see my role as primarily one of entrepreneurial leadership. I am in the fortunate position of working with a small team of talented and dedicated coaches who share an exciting vision for the future of the NEGS Equestrian Centre. The aim is to broaden the scope of the Centre’s activities, establishing it as a centre of excellence and the hub of equestrian training in the region. Through the high profile competitions and clinics that are planned, we are looking to increase community involvement and promote the Armidale region to a wider audience. We are currently working with local businesses to develop sponsorship partnerships for these competitions.

Andrew, the new extensions to the Equestrian Centre are almost complete. Tell us a bit about the work?

It has been some twelve months in the making, from when the initial earthworks commenced and we have been continually hampered by wet weather, but NEGS can now boast an international standard, 40 m x 80 m indoor arena (that is approximately 12 tennis courts) in addition to the existing 25 m x 65 m indoor arena. The new arena is equipped with overhead lighting and an automated sprinkler system to ensure an optimal training environment. The recently completed livestock precinct also includes an 18 stable complex with dual hot water wash bays, tack rooms, vet area and amenities block. These new facilities are truly world class.

When will they open?

As we are in possession of the Occupancy Certificate, we have been able to commence training in the new arena, much to the delight of our students and external clients. There is still landscaping and fencing to be completed to put the finishing touches to the new Livestock Precinct. When this is completed, we are planning to conduct an official opening to showcase these wonderful new facilities to the community.

What’s the next stage include?

In January, world renowned cross country course designer, Mr Wayne Copping from South Australia, will commence the rebuilding of the NEGS cross country course. This development is part of an overall plan to see NEGS hosting International Level Eventing competitions before the end of 2012 and an extensive interschool equestrian competition programme in the longer term. Early projections indicate that each of these events will attract in excess of 1,000 visitors to the Armidale area, providing a significant boost to the local economy and showcasing the region to potential ‘tree-changers’.

Gina, the NEGS equestrian centre isn’t just for NEGS students, is it?

No, it is definitely a community facility. We have a significant number of clients from the broader community that utilise the centre already, for lessons, agistment and training. The centre caters for riders of all ages and levels. Lessons are available on your own horse or on one of our carefully selected school horses. We are also expanding our external instruction programme, offering clinics with expert equestrian coaches from a variety of disciplines. For example, this term we have been able to secure two of Australia’s leading coaches, Sam Lyle and Ben Netterfield, Assistant Australian Olympic and World Championship coaches, to conduct clinics at NEGS. Both of these clinics will be open to the public, and we encourage members of the community to attend as either riders or spectators.

What is the most satisfying part of the job for the two of you?

It is very rewarding to see your riders and their horses improve and ultimately reach their competition goals. But, to be honest, the most satisfying part of what we do is the special relationships that you develop with your students. It is a privilege to be involved in their growth and development, not only as an athlete, but as a person and to play a part in helping them achieve their dreams.

Thanks Andrew and Gina.