Aimee Heal knows that feeling. Flight Lieutenant (FLTLT) Aimee Heal is Roulette Seven with the Air Force Roulettes . They are the Royal Australian Air Force’s aerobatic display team which was established in 1970. That year was also when they had their first public display at RAAF Base Point Cook. The Roulettes are a six-aircraft, seven-member team and they complete two display seasons each year. These displays are flown around Australia and the pilots demonstrate different precise formations, graceful aerobatics, low level flying and jaw-dropping airmanship skills. Their displays never fail to inspire awe and enthusiastic applause from the crowd. These pilots make it seem like the aircraft weighs next to nothing in the air. Recently the Roulettes were in Port Macquarie to do a display and it was the first twilight show flying in the Pilatus PC-21. Veronica Lind spoke to Aimee Heal to learn more about what the Roulettes do and what it is like to be a pilot. Training to Take to the Skies FLTLT Aimee Heal is the only woman on the team and also the youngest. She grew up in Bundaberg, Queensland where she started flying at the local aero club at 16 years old. She joined the RAAF after completing high school. She attended the Australian Defence Force Academy where she completed her Bachelor of Science. Straight after her degree, Aimee headed off to start on her pilot training course. She graduated from 231 Pilots’ Course in 2013 having flown the CT4 and PC-9, and was posted to RAAF Base Townsville to fly the King Air 350 with 38SQN. Two years later, Aimee deployed to Vanuatu on Operation Pacific Assist. She was then posted to 33SQN, RAAF Base Amberley to fly the KC-30A MRTT later that year. Since then, Aimee has participated in military exercises both in Australia and overseas. Aimee recalls her early training days when the tiny cockpit felt claustrophobic. It took a bit of time getting used to it. For those who love flying, this tiny space soon begins to feel like their natural environment. During training, the student goes in the front seat and the instructor is in the back. When one is flying solo, the front seat is where they would go. Aimee now flies the Pilatus PC-21 and has been doing that since the start of 2020. She loves flying this aircraft as it is highly responsive and includes all the modern systems a large aircraft has and still has the aerobatic capability of a training aircraft. Aimee’s favourite part of flying the aircraft is in creating formations. It is a skill that requires a lot of fine-tuning and practice because it degrades over time. Pilots who do formation are always driven to attain perfection, which is notoriously difficult to achieve. Constant practice is necessary to keep their skills fresh and steady. On the Roulette team, Roulette One is the leader and together with Roulettes Two, Three and Four make up one formation team doing manoeuvres while Roulettes Five and Six work together and Roulette Seven (which is Aimee) does the transits and takes the aircraft wherever they need to go. One of the Team Being the only female pilot on the team does not mean Aimee gets treated any differently. It is not so much about being one of the boys, but about being one of the team. She shares the same passion and dedication as her other teammates and is equally as committed in doing a good job honing their skills. The community finds it intriguing to have a female pilot though! Perhaps there is no need for a stereotype of what a pilot is like and while it may be nostalgic to think about Tom Cruise and his cool Ray-Bans, it is also very inspiring to meet someone like Aimee who has a bright, fresh, professional and down-to-earth demeanour and is quietly modest about her skills in making a huge machine twirl graceful pirouettes in the air to her command. Suit Up Pilots wear special clothes when they fly. We do not need our real life pilots to look like a random extra who just walked off the set of Top Gun. We need our pilots to be well protected when they are up in the air. Pilots wear a G suit which is an extra pair of pants that is worn over the top. This suit has air bladders and is plugged into the aircraft. The air bladders inflate and push against the leg muscles and the abdomen. Pilots tense their muscles against that suit to keep the blood from pooling in the lower body, pushing the blood up in the upper body to reduce the likelihood of pilots blacking out. There is a vest that pilots wear which includes a life jacket with survival equipment in it. Next is the helmet, oxygen mask, visor and gloves. Pilots are well protected from head to toe. Remember the cockpit is already a tiny space. To climb in with all the extra weight of the protective gear is not exactly slipping into a bathrobe at the spa. Pilatus PC-21 Fact File Aimee has had experience flying the biggest to the smallest aircraft and that says a lot for someone so young. She loves the PC-21 for its versatility and power. The PC-21 is a Swiss-designed and built training aircraft, widely used by the airforce, the army and the navy. All the pilots are taught on this aircraft. This is the model that a pilot would first go solo in, which is a treat as it is a high performance aircraft. The PC-21 has two ejection seats also referred to as 0-0 ejection seats, meaning at 0 knots 0 feet on the ground, the seats can safely eject the pilots. There is a limit on the pilot´s height and weight for the ejection seats, though the PC-21 is still much bigger than its other cousin, the PC-9. The PC-21 goes at 370 knots, 685 km/h, allows low flying to 150 feet with 16,000 shaft horsepower which is a really powerful one. It can pull up to 8G and has roll rates of 200 degrees per second. The PC-21 weighs approximately 3600 kg and holds 1200 pounds of fuel which allows the plane to go for two hours without refuelling. Each wing also allows the attachment of wing tanks which hold an extra 800 pounds of fuel. This can stretch the flight time to nearly four hours, which is a rather long time to be strapped into the seat. There are pods attached to the wings called ESG (External Smoke Generators) which create the smoke trails seen during flying displays. The utility of these pods goes beyond the aesthetics as they also ensure safety, as each aircraft can avoid each other´s weight turbulence when doing manoeuvres and making it easy to rejoin when they split in the formation. So the next time you hear that familiar loud zoom in the distance, look up and remember to wave to the Roulettes from down below! Who knows, your children may be inspired to follow Aimee's trail and take to the skies one day too… Learn more at: www.airforce.gov.au/displays/roulettes Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. 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Desirable Property Features 28 Pipers Bay Drive, Forster, NSW 2428, Australia Stunning property with three bedrooms, builder’s own home - an absolute credit to its design and construction by local builder Daniel Warren of Danbilt Pty Ltd. From the letterbox to the back fence and every aspect in between this property’s combination and flow of juxtaposition creates a contemporary and modern eclectic style whilst offering a warm, familiar feel. Natural timber, rustic brick and earthy tones are complimented perfectly by a serene and tranquil vista, appreciated from the main living spaces and front undercover, entertaining deck area. A spacious three-car garage and office, with ensuite and private entry, provides a versatile space, the perfect setup for a work-from-home prospect or separate accommodation option. This unique property and its opposite waterfront reserve location, presents an attractive offering in today’s market and certainly a must to inspect. Location Features Opposite waterfront reserve in a desirable Forster location, only a little over three hours drive north of Sydney. Welcome to Forster Keys and its warm, friendly community. A favourable position with its own group of convenience shops and local neighbourhood groups. Enjoy a peaceful and tranquil lifestyle, surrounded by nearby reserves and beautiful Wallis Lake; swim, fish, paddleboard or canoe right from your front door. Just a short drive or stroll from the pristine waterways, beaches and national parks of Forster/Tuncurry. To find out more about this property visit: https://www.domain.com.au/forster-nsw-2428-2016435833 Forster Keys Real Estate We are currently looking for listings. With a recent spike in buyer enquiry, we’ve just about sold all our stock. Not sure if now’s the right time to sell – It’ll cost you nothing to find out. Call Sharon Chambers on 0401 605 722 To find out more about Forster Keys Real Estate and much more, visit: www.forsterkeysrealestate.com.au Appointing Forster Keys Real Estate and Sharon to manage the sale of your property ensures that you not only have the owner working solely with you, but also someone who listens carefully, is highly motivated, knowledgeable within the local market and who cares about you and your needs. Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment, businesses and people. - LUXE, latest trends and products fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

A Family-Run Business Helping You Customise Your Home The past 12 months or so has seen more and more people spending an increasing amount of time at home as safety measures relating to the COVID-19 pandemic have curtailed certain activities we traditionally have taken for granted. Somewhat inevitably, people have taken a greater interest in the aesthetics of their household and decided it was perhaps time for an upgrade in certain areas: maybe a fresh lick of paint in the spare bedroom, a refresh in the kitchen or bathroom, or time for some new curtains or blinds to brighten up the place. Consequently, 2020 saw a huge demand across all home improvement sectors as people looked to enhance their households and create a more comfortable and customised environment to live in. Newton Shutters, Blinds and Awnings is one local business that has been a beneficiary of this increased interest in home improvement as the demand for high quality blinds has skyrocketed. “The support from our previous and regular customers during this past year has been overwhelming,” says Robert Newton, owner of the Port Macquarie-based business which he runs with his wife Melinda. “Additionally, we have managed to establish relationships with so many fantastic new customers which is something we are delighted about,” he added. Family Run Proudly family-owned and operated, the business has been providing an outstanding service to satisfied customers across New South Wales across the blinds industry since 2006. Their industry expertise and attention to detail has meant they are respected leaders in the art of providing custom-crafted shutters, blinds and awnings to enhance the overall aesthetic of a customer’s home. As their website states, “we can provide guidance, samples, and suggestions, all with the goal of helping find the perfect lighting and design for your home decor. Whether your home is more traditional, modern, or contemporary, we offer a range of colours, designs, styles, and materials.” The husband-wife dynamic of Robert and Melinda has worked exceptionally well in helping establish the business as the go-to provider locally and regionally. “We work really well together,” says Robert. “I am out on the road providing quotes to customers pretty much every day while Melinda is in the office planning calendars, quoting, helping customers with fabrics and house plans and then running the kids all around the countryside – although our eldest daughter recently got her licence, so the driving obligations have eased off for now,” he quips. “There have been challenges at times for sure but overall we work so well together which makes it a whole lot easier for the both of us.” Personal Touch Responding to the increased demand for their services as the home improvement sector continued to blossom, the business increased its workforce to finish 2020 with three full-time installers – Bill, Craig and Marcus. This provides a dual-plus for Robert as not only does it mean the business is on an upwards trajectory but having full-time employees provides a distinct advantage to customers. “Having employees rather than contractors is such a benefit to us in that we know how much care goes into each job,” commented Robert. “Bill, Craig and Marcus are great at their jobs and take great pride in their work. The positive comments we receive weekly from customers about the three of them is such a testament to the effort they put in every day.” That personal touch that is such a success with customers extends to all aspects of service that Robert, Melinda and the team provide. “For now, we are still based in Beechwood and we are always very pleased to welcome customers to see us there by appointment,” says Robert. “We have most items on display within our home so you can get a real feel for how our products will look and function in your home. Otherwise I come to you and measure up and bring all the samples along which means we can match fabrics and colours to your décor and not have to take up more of your time with a second meeting.” It is the small things like this and an acute attention to detail and service that go a long way. ‘Back in fashion’ When asked to elaborate on their offerings and highlight some of the more popular trends of late, Robert is quick to respond. “We were excited last year to add curtains and verishades to our range. As many people are aware, curtains are absolutely back in fashion and we are pleased to be able to now provide them to our customers. “We specialise in outdoor awnings as well which can help create extra space with privacy whilst maintaining suitable airflow – ZIPTRAKS are the number one outdoor item at the moment as well as Aluminium Shutters – all of which are Australian Made when you buy from us. “Another growing trend is internal aluminium shutters, as an alternative to Timber or PVC. These are a sleek finish and the longevity will outdo any other shutter option on the market and the maintenance is just so easy. Also being Australian made we can deliver these in half the time of any imported option.” In addition, the company also offer roller blinds, verticals, venetians, roman blinds, all types of shutters and all styles of outdoor awnings including fabric, aluminium hood style and retractable roof style: “motorisation is almost always an option and well worth discussing,” adds Robert. Newton Shutters, Blinds and Awnings clearly have all bases covered and support their extensive range of products and solutions with a best in class approach to customer service, something the numerous examples of glowing feedback from satisfied customers is testimony to. The final words go to Robert himself: “Whether you’re thinking of renovating or building from scratch, whether looking for internal or external solutions, we have everything you need. We support this with a wealth of knowledge and experience, outstanding service and tradesmen who know what they’re doing and care about the job they do. If I haven’t done so already, I look forward to meeting you soon.” Find out more a/ 25 Morilla Place Beechwood NSW 2446, Australia t/ 0419 277 651 e/ sales@newtonblinds.com.au w/ newtonblinds.com.au/ Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Spurs n Lace is a proud sponsor of the New South Wales State Quarter Horse Championships from 4th to 7th March 2021 The popular Sydney Quarter Horse Association (SQHA) has saddled up a new sponsor for its next show season, with equestrian retailer Spurs n Lace ready to hit the show trail. SQHA enables owners of all western breed horses in the Sydney region to show their horses at high levels of all aspects of western horsemanship - western pleasure, trail classes, hunter under saddle, ranch riding and reining & halter events. ​ The association holds several regular shows and clinics throughout its show year, from August through to July, with all of them conducted by SQHA judged by Australian Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) qualified judges. Competitors are assured that the standard of competition is maintained at a high level. Equestrian Fit It’s all a natural fit for Spurs n Lace, the one-stop online shop for everything equestrian that specialises in outdoors style, durability and comfort. Its quality horse tack and foodstuffs, fashionable upmarket apparel and heavy-duty work gear are all just a click away for anyone seeking quality equestrian equipment and apparel, whether for the showground, dressage field, farm or outback. For youngsters just starting out on the equestrian trail, Spurs n Lace has a focus on providing quality gear and apparel to help develop riding school experiences into a life-long love of horses and the outdoors. Renowned Australian outdoor brands, such as Ariat, Roper and Ringers Western are available, with all products carefully selected for high standards of quality and wear. Quarter Horse History The Quarter Horse in SQHA’s title refers to the horse originally bred to work cattle ranches in the USA and later used as a cowboy’s holiday racer over quarter-mile courses; hence the name. The breed is thought to have started with an English thoroughbred stud called Janus, brought to the US in 1750 and crossed with the Chicksaw Indian pony, which in turn was a descendent of the Spanish Conquistador’s Arabian derivative. The Quarter Horse breed was formally documented and a stud register started in 1940 with its foundation sire, Wimpey P1. Australian Quarter Horses began with imports of purebred examples from Texas in the 1950s and it’s now an established breed. Continual imports mean that Australian Quarter Horses are of an equally high standard to any available elsewhere around the world. Its stud and show registers are held by the AQHA, which also advises on the status of breeders, judges, and show events. Western Breeds In addition to Quarter Horses, SQHA also caters to all Western breeds - Appaloosa, Paint, Palouse Pony - with classes held for all categories at each of its shows. ​ Show results are submitted to three associations, AQHA-PHAA-AAA, with horses’ results kept recorded with their own breed association. ​ The association keeps records of results for club high points and entrants must be a SQHA member to have points recorded to compete for these high points. ​ The SQHA Committee holds regular meetings and holds three General Meetings each year as well as an AGM, with the General Meetings and AGM open to all members. ​ Members can keep fully informed of activities and show dates through the SQHA website and a SQHA Facebook page. Spurs n Lace Spurs n Lace Spurs is an online shop for everything country, western, Equine, farm and tradie's workwear. Shop online - https://www.spursnlace.com.au/shop Retail - Shop 2, 1 High St, Wauchope, NSW 2446 Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many activities to a standstill, and for sportsmen around the world, the very idea of not training or competing is unimaginable. Sports came to an abrupt halt in 2020 with no end in sight. Sports is not something you can transfer to an online platform and do virtually and expect to get the same adrenaline pumping. Muscles need to be out there moving, training, pushing for the limits. Sportsmen all over the world missed the feeling of their feet hitting the ground, their hands gripping a racquet, their arms slicing through water, the texture of chalk on their palms. They missed exploring their physical challenges and competing with their peers to get beyond their comfort zone. Mostly they missed their fans cheering for them at the playing field. 2021 has been a little kinder and parts of the world are slowly opening up, albeit with caution and trepidation of yet another outbreak. Diehard sports fans are also eager to have sports return to their lives again and so are enthusiastic sports photographers. Capturing live action in a single shot and being able to transmit the excitement and tension of the moment is a skill that cannot be replaced by taking a shot of your placid armchair while quarantined in your living room. Sports photographers are slowly returning to the sports scene as well. Government hotel quarantine restrictions for travellers have put an additional challenge on covering international events and made it very trying and tedious for them. Many have found themselves having to miss some of the major global sports events this year. Keeping His Eye on the Ball Andy Cheung from ArcK Photography is a professional sports photographer who specialises in tennis. He has been on the sides of the courts all over the world for more than 12 years photographing more than 20 Grand Slam Championships and other tennis events worldwide. Andy has won numerous awards and he won in two consecutive years the prestigious 2017 and 2016 AIPP NSW Sport Professional Photographer of the Year Award . Andy now works as the official photographer of UK Tennis Magazine. He is accredited for Tennis Grand Slam Championships as well as other ATP/WTA tournaments for 13 years. Andy - Rafael NADAL of Spain at the 2019 Australian Open Tennis Championship Day 7 Match at Melbourne Park Tennis Centre, Melbourne, Australia. 20 Jan 2019. (©Andy Cheung/ArcK Images/ arckimages.com/UK Tennis Magazine/Getty Images)] The 3 Ps in Sports Photography For Andy, sports photography is not about being quick with his finger and hoping to get that frozen-in-the-air moment shot. It is not about having some secret formula either. Persistence, if anything, is what he leans on. And with the experience of the pandemic, that has become key to survival - Patience, Persistence, Perseverance. Perhaps that is what budding sports photographers need to inculcate. The 3 Ps. You need to keep returning to the sports scene and risk many shots knowing that none may turn out the way you want, and sometimes the very shot you want comes only after hours of waiting, or even after a whole day of being baked in the sun you return with nothing satisfactory. It simply means you return again the next day, with camera and tools in tow, a rested and fed body, ready to start again. The Story Behind the Lens Sports photography is not about simply capturing actions or what the sportsman is doing. That is more a spectator's point of view, sitting in the stands, wanting to soak up every single movement and not miss anything. When you get behind the lens, however, (and that is the magic of photography and a camera), your point of view changes, maybe even your brain changes how you see things when your eye is confined by the lens to focus on a specific area, blocking out the rest of the distractions around you. Interestingly, the sports player per se is not necessarily the protagonist in sports photography. The sports player has to share the limelight with other elements such as light and shadows, new perspectives and angles. For Andy, he is also drawn to look for split second emotions. Perhaps the true protagonist is actually The Story. Andy wants to use his photography to tell stories. With one single shot, what narrative can you convey? What feelings have been captured and what feelings resonate with the person looking at the photograph? Andy has spent the past 10 years developing his senses to be able to capture a story in a single frame. Forever Nadal Rafael Nadal has been one of Andy's most photographed subjects over the course of his career. At a mere 35 years old, Nadal is already considered a tennis legend and has won 20 Grand Slam titles. In Spain, Rafael Nadal, or ¨Rafa¨ Nadal as he is affectionately known as, is well-loved by everyone and stands out not just for his tennis skills but for simply being a super nice guy, on and off the court, the type you want to bring home to your parents who would probably hold him hostage with delicious homecooked food and smother him with lots of pampering. The nation adores him for his professionalism and his impeccable sportsmanship. He brings an element of respect, grace and humility without losing the drive and excitement of going beyond one's best in the sport. In spite of a very early start in the gruelling world of competitions, Nadal has managed to retain a simplicity that explains why he is so loved by the nation. He began competing at the age of 8 and he has beaten 12-year-olds competing against him. As an adult, he now toggles between No.1 and No.2 positions in the Association of Tennis Professionals. For Nadal, the best year of his career was 2010 when he became the only male player in the history of tennis to have won the Grand Slam titles on three different surfaces in the same year. Nadal is not one whose life is constricted to only the court - he is very involved in his country and is especially fond of his hometown of Mallorca. When the area was devastated by flash floods in 2018, he was there personally to help in the relief effort in the municipality of Sant Llorenç. He also offered the facilities of his Rafa Nadal Sport Centre and Rafa Nadal Academy rooms for those who needed accommodation. Giving back is second nature to Nadal and he has his Fundación Rafa Nadal which aids children and youths in Spain and India through sports and education. He is also involved in the Elton John AIDS Foundation and Small Steps Project . Injuries are part and parcel of an intense professional sports career and Nadal has his list of injuries he has been battling over the years - patellar tendinitis in both knees, a back injury and a wrist injury. They are a humble reminder of the short-lived career of sportsmen, and sports photographers in their own way, are trying to capture their short dazzling career and the defining moments that make these sportsmen stand out as a human putting in all they have got to make that moment count. Quirky Fact: A Star is Born ... Nadal has an asteroid in his name! Pull out your telescope from the dusty box and look for Asteroid 128036Rafaelnadal, which is a main-belt asteroid named after Rafa Nadal in his honor. The next time you go to a sports match, why not try looking at the event through your camera? Even starting with a simple mobile phone camera, you may just see the competition differently - what story can you tell? One day you may be a visual storyteller like Andy, showing the world a different side to sports and engaging the viewer's senses to have a unique experience of the image in front of them. (Source: https://playersbio.com/rafael-nadal-bio/ ) For your professional photography needs, Contact Andy Cheung, ArcK Photography: w/ www.arckphoto.com.au t/ 041 228 3308 e/ hello@arckphoto.com.au IG/ https://www.instagram.com/arckphoto Click on the image below to purchase Andy's sports photos from Getty Images Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

The win-win approach for Sean Byfield, real estate agent Meet Sean Byfield, new to Oxbridge Property Group but certainly not new to real estate. With 9 years experience as a real estate agent Sean is passionate about understanding, and delivering premium results for his clients. “As soon as we met Sean, we felt the sale of our house was in the best hands”. - Mat and Sophie Ackland. Sean is definitely passionate about understanding clients’ needs and achieving premium results for them. He is driven to ensure the sale or purchase of your home is a seamless experience with his focus on the client and the best possible outcome for those involved. Joining the Oxbridge Property Group network was the next logical step for Sean allowing him to run his own co-branded Licensed Real Estate Agency, whilst having the support and infrastructure required to work in a successful business. I have always had a burning desire to have my own business where I could deliver my high expectations in serving my clients well and leaving them with a feel good experience as they move on to the next chapter of their lives. Oxbridge, this is the next best thing. For me, I’m not looking to be a number one agent in the area, my ego is just not that big, however, I aim each and every time to be number one for every client that I serve. That’s what gets me out of bed every morning with great enthusiasm to help change someone’s life for the better and do everything in my absolute power to make their experience one, of positivity and one, they will never forget. Oxbridge specialises in Residential Sales, Property Management, Holiday Letting, Development & Finance, and more. This company aligns with Sean’s passion guiding his client through the buying and selling cycle. Oxbridge Property Group is a global property network with about 500 real estate agents in Australia, and growing. “The sheer volume of our network, locally and globally, with a centralised database can offer more opportunities in the buyer market.”, says Sean about joining Oxbridge Property Group to achieve a win-win approach. Having 9 solid years in the industry behind him, has given Sean the insight to tried and tested strategies to grow the Oxbridge brand and build a solid foundation in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. Sean comes to you. Like any modern business nowadays, there is no need for a physical office. I have always met with my client at the property or in a cafe. Giving them a comfortable environment to engage in the sales process. With our “new way of life”, COVID19 has certainly shifted us in doing this differently. When you meet Sean you will find him down-to-earth and sense his desire to help you. A responsible family man, Sean spends most of his free time with his wife and three daughters. He is a St George Illawarra Dragons supporter, (but don’t hold that against him), and like most Aussie guys, Sean enjoys the occasional hit of golf, and playing basketball. Besides watching NBA and NFL, Sean enjoys working on his fitness, collecting and listening to vinyl records. Sean's favourite quote "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken" - Oscar Wilde Contact Sean Byfield to buy or sell your property in Port Macquarie-Hastings Sean Byfield Licensed Real Estate Agent for Mid-North Coast, New South Wales, Australia m/ 0438 061 979 e/ sean@oxbridge.com.au Advertise Brilliantly The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment, investment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

Our breath is the one thing that is always with us wherever we go. From the time a newborn first enters the world and takes in their first gasp of sharp, fresh, cold air, that breath continues and does not stop. It is a gentle, hypnotic cycle that miraculously keeps us going every single day of our lives. This is where we stop for a second to ponder just how amazing the human body is. Right now, we are all breathing naturally, without having to control any of it. Our breath is a sign of life. Babies experience what is like to have their lungs pumping, to inhale cold air through their nostrils, letting it run its cycle in their little bodies and exhaling warm air. Do you ever stop to wonder, if only our memories could bring us that far back into the past, what our first breath must have felt like? Mothers also benefit from learning how to breathe. This may sound weird, but not everyone is aware of how we sometimes work against our breath and we expend a lot of energy fighting against our bodies' natural responses. Lea Bailey talks about Breathing at Calmbirth® At Calmbirth ®, the breath is pivotal to understanding the Calmbirth® techniques . Simply put, Calmbirth® teaches a yogic style of breathing that slows down the body's processes and puts it into a gentle, steady, calm and open state. It takes the stress and anxiety off the mother and the baby. It helps to optimise the gas exchange in and out of the air sacs within the lobes of the lungs. This gentle cycle brings oxygen to the baby because of improved blood flow. It is like giving the baby a fresh, gentle boost of hormone "O" oxytocin. It provides a healthy environment for the baby to be in during pregnancy and through delivery. When the right breathing technique is applied, the brain releases polypeptides which neuro protects the baby. It also releases the 'feel good hormones' i.e. oxytocin, creating a gentle, calm and safe environment for the baby to develop. Lisa Price speaks about her experience. What is in a breath? We all have access to this one single very powerful tool in us. Our breath. So simple, and yet so powerful. What do you notice about your breath when you feel agitated, anxious or stressed? Breaths become short, rapid and sometimes people even hold their breath. But if you were to stop for a moment, and notice how your breath is, and take that one conscious slow, deep breath, you can start to initiate a sense of calm. If you slow down your breathing, the calm increases. That is why sighing can feel like such a relief where you can simply release your breath to let go of an emotional or mental load. The Calmbirth® Conscious breath technique allows parents to work with their breath, and work with the birth rather than forcing it, dreading it, or going against it. The amazing thing about the breath is, it is a tool you can take with you wherever you go. It is highly portable and the best thing is, it is free! Even as you are reading this article, (and you do not need to be pregnant to experience this), you can already experiment with simply taking a pause and noticing and feeling your breath. How does it feel? If it feels good to you, to have that one second of gentle breathing and calm, imagine what that must feel like for a mother and a baby whose bodies are going through major changes. Keeping it Natural and Gentle Have you ever walked in a lush green forest and felt how cool and fresh the air was? The greenery is pumping the air full of delicious oxygen which your system is greedily sucking up. You feel more awake, more alive in a natural, oxygenated place like a forest, than in a closed off, boxed up artificial room like an office. Calmbirth® brings in all the natural tools we have to help make the birthing journey a safe and gentle one, which can be enjoyed by the parents as they anticipate the arrival of their child. ¨With knowledge comes confidence¨ is what Calmbirth® goes by, and their aim is to empower women with the knowledge, tools and skills they need about their bodies and the birthing process to ensure the birth is as natural and as nurturing as possible. A key concept at Calmbirth ® is using the body's relaxation response and how it influences birth. That is why breathing is so important here as it helps guide the body to a relaxed and open state. Birthing is about the joy of welcoming new life and feeling the connection between the baby and the parents. It is not about armouring up and getting ready to do battle. Many mothers-to-be can feel a lot of stress and anxiety about the pain of the process. At Calmbirth®, women are not left to be defenceless in anticipation of the terrifying day. They are active participants in preparing their bodies and minds and building a trust in their bodies´ natural abilities to nurture new life. There is a strong mind-body connection that is taught at Calmbirth ®, and breathing is a way to initiate this connection. Mothers learn to use the breath to bring awareness into their bodies. The use of guided relaxation is a fear release technique to help mothers move past any learnt negative emotions around the birthing process. There is a lot of underlying subconscious fear and anxiety about childbirth and Calmbirth's breathing and relaxation technique helps to release the emotions that do not serve the purpose of helping parents to experience a gentle delivery. Calmbirth® has such positive findings that it is now being offered in the Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick. Retraining the Mind Calmbirth® antenatal program is about reprogramming one's response to stress. The birthing journey is a huge change in one's life and we have been conditioned to respond to changes with resistance and stress. Modern lifestyles have also eroded our natural instincts and abilities and we have learnt to rely too heavily on medicine. Parents who have experienced Calmbirth® antenatal program can feel their confidence and joy increasing through the birthing journey and they are encouraged and supported to be proactive in what they can do. At Calmbirth®, mothers learn to trust their bodies. They tap into their natural strength and feel empowered to nurture and deliver life. And when the baby arrives, that is when parents can sigh and let the experience simply take their breath away. Zoom and face-to-face appointments available. Contact Lea Bailey for a calm birth: t/ 0438978500 e/ allaboutcalmbirth@bigpond.com w/ optimalmidwifery.wordpress.com | calmbirth.com f/ www.facebook.com/optimalwidwifery Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

Living an alternate lifestyle on the Mid North Coast for the past 25 years, Lea grows her own vegetables, raises animals and loves riding her horse through the mountain trails surrounding her hinterland paradise. Preferring to do all things as natural as possible in her home life, she is less medicalised in her work ethic. She brings her holistic approach to her Calmbirth® practices, educating women and their partners to be more appreciative of the natural birthing and parenting process. In her role as a midwife for the past 23 years she has worked in all areas of the maternity unit at Port Base Hospital, specialising in neonatal intensive care. Lea is highly qualified to look after pregnant women and their family throughout the entire process, from prenatal to postnatal and everything in between, the birthing process, breastfeeding and lactation bonding. Specialising privately with Calmbirth®, she is passionate about teaching women to understand their bodies, how to work with the birthing process through labour as opposed to against it, and to be healthier and more active when pregnant. Being active during pregnancy helps the new mum-to-be mentally, emotionally and physically. Believing that the postnatal period tends to be forgotten (a little bit nowadays), Lea provides support and understanding around breastfeeding and lactation. Lea says that one thing she has noticed throughout her career is that the birthing process has become more medicalised. There seems to be more testing and monitoring of pregnant mothers, but having said that, she acknowledged that women in this geographic pocket on the Mid North Coast are now showing more health risks - for example, an increase in weight related problems, and, as they are less active, blood pressure issues and diabetes are starting to be more prominent. This has changed the midwifery mindset. Tending to lean more to a normal birth and pregnancy in the past, now midwives have had to become a little more medicalised in their thinking. A country girl at heart, Lea was raised in Sydney near bush land and the northern beaches. Her family is from Moree. Lea later trained in Sydney to be a registered nurse, finding employment in tertiary hospitals for three years before moving on to work full time in various hospitals around the city. Wanting to work closely with women and their families, Lea studied further and became an eligible midwife. The country life beckoned, however, as she wanted her own piece of our beautiful country and also wanted to provide a service on the Mid North Coast, so she opened a private room in Taree where she practised Calmbirth®. Many beautiful outcomes have been achieved by having a collaborative approach and continuity of care with her ladies and their partners. Many have returned for their 2nd and 3rd child’s birthing and postnatal care. Lea has become well known in the community for her personable, holistic service. An increase of around 40% in Caesarean Section births has seen women coming to her trying for a normal birth, this is called a VBAC. This is a short way of saying that you have had a prior Caesar and you’d like to attempt to have a normal birth. Lea provides a healing component around education about giving a normal birth a good shot again with a different frame of mind. The main reason for Lea to learn the Calmbirth® way and offer it on the Mid North Coast was to provide a choice of service and education. Calmbirth® teaches the mother how to drive up more oxytocin which is secreted from the anterior pituitary gland in the brain - this is done via the proper breathing and relaxing methods which are the crux of the birthing process. The main aim is to create a relaxed, bonded couple that understands the processes of birth and beyond. Not solely about the Mother, the Father is important too! Calmbirth® is about bringing the mother and father together and bonding them as a male and female. Education is the key to a Calmbirth®, and, as he or she will remember things differently, they can share the knowledge that they learn when the time comes. It is an aim that the father feels free to receive the baby where it's possible and cut the cord as well as give suggestions to their partner. Lea acknowledges that she is finding a more lateral style of parenting and varied partnerships now, which may be same sex couples, IVF and surrogacy. She has had to learn and change with the times herself to adjust to the change. More IVF and a growing number of later in life parents has seen a demand for her type of education. Why Calmbirth®? After doing her homework around child birth, researching hypnobirthing, home water birthing, etc, the Calmbirth® practice ticked all of Lea’s boxes and also touched on her personality, as the Calmbirth® philosophy is holistic and nourishing in its approach as is Lea in everyday life. Calmbirth® is about empowering the parents. Involving them in the entire process including the decision making, making them feel like they are playing a part instead of being dictated to. The birth is a small and very powerful part of the process. Another aspect of Calmbirth® focuses on conscious parenting and breastfeeding. Skin to skin bonding, allowing nature to do its thing. An example is the baby navigating, using its natural instincts, to the breast and going with the flow. The 4 Stages of Birthing Of course being pregnant in the first place is the onset of stage one, leading then into the beginning of labour, which can be quite slow especially if you are a first time parent. Stage two is when the mum-to-be is fully dilated and ready to birth the baby, passing the baby through the body through the pelvis. The end of stage two is when the baby leaves the woman's body. Stage three is the delivery or birth of the placenta. The Calmbirth® philosophy continues at this stage, with the body left to do this naturally without intervention. Stage four is bonding, paramount in the first two hours. A beautiful stage if the baby can be left to navigate from the lower abdomen of the main tummy area still on the cord to the mothers breast. Everything is instinctive and natural. Calmbirth® is an education program that differs for the individual It’s about informing and educating couples, how this is taken on by the individual is different from couple to couple, everyone interprets information differently. Different lifestyle and personality traits take on information and guidance in various ways. One example would be an intense professional couple, parenting later in their lives, transcending into letting go of their steadfast and regimented ways and looking at natural processes and realising just how amazing the woman’s body is. It can be an amazing time for the partner, they have never seen their lady like this before. An amazing experience for all. After an initial phone consultation where Lea explains what Calmbirth® is and an acceptance of involvement in the program, a time frame is set and 12 hours of education begins from about 28 to 32 weeks into the pregnancy. Weekly or fortnightly 4 hour sessions are now conducted via Zoom due to COVID-19. The sessions are paced out, pregnancy information can be monitored and everyone works together towards the birth. People are living increasingly interesting and dynamic lives nowadays, juggling a lot of different things, with both parties often working, running businesses, etc, so Lea uniquely tailors the program to individual needs. The program is all about choices. It’s about getting to know the couple and then starting to gently offer topics and answer any questions. As it all comes together, the couple will have a whole different perspective, be less stressed and understand the natural processes. There are many Calmbirth® practitioners Australia wide now. You can even find Calmbirth® practitioners in Hong Kong and New Zealand. In Australia itself, there are practitioners in NSW hospitals such as Mater Hospital, Seventh Day Adventist Hospital, Royal North Shore, Westmead Hospital, Royal Women's Hospital, and John Hunter Hospital. Calmbirth® will also work with Homebirth and Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) when this starts on the Mid North Coast. In Australia, Lea and her associates are spreading the word, passing it onto other midwives, and offering the program wherever possible. Tips for a healthy pregnancy, a Calmbirth® and post natal care Firstly look at your overall health. Eat more fresh, natural foods. Eat less take out. Be more physical, walk more, swimming is wonderful. It takes the weight off the woman’s back, it is restful not only for the woman but for the baby as well. Basically, live a healthy lifestyle. Move more, eat in moderation. Breastfeeding is the best for postnatal weight loss. This is why it is paramount if you can get enough education and support around you in those first six weeks to assist and guide you. Having a midwife come out and visit you at home is fantastic and they can help with lots of issues. The longest part of the journey will be raising the child. So it is fantastic to get the bonding, attachment and promotion of breastfeeding in motion at the start. Zoom and face-to-face appointments available. Contact Lea Bailey for a calm birth: t/ 0438978500 e/ allaboutcalmbirth@bigpond.com w/ optimalmidwifery.wordpress.com | calmbirth.com f/ www.facebook.com/optimalwidwifery Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

Lea Bailey prepares you for the birth of your child The Calmbirth ® program offers a holistic approach giving you access to skills and knowledge to prepare you mentally, physically, and emotionally for childbirth. At Calmbirth ® you are not alone. Lea Bailey guides you through this special, and sometimes anxious stage of your life, helping you prepare for the best birth experience possible. Lea understands how becoming ready to be a parent is vital to the birth process, and the health of you and your baby. The Calmbirth ® 12-hour program shows you ways to retrain your response to stress and come to the birth of your child in a proactive way. "Calmbirth® helped to reduce my anxiety about the birthing process and change my mindset so my body was able to do what it needed to do effectively." Clients who came to Lea for the birth of their second child, after a bad birth experience for their first child. A registered endorsed midwife for over 24 years, Lea offers the Calmbirth ® course face to face or via Zoom. Lea’s emphasis is on you, and ensuring your experience leading up to and during birth will be positive and uplifting for you and your child. Lea understands couples want simplistic information and caters to individual needs, shaping the course to align with you. Calmbirth® is a leading Australian Antenatal Education Program With Calmbirth ®, each session builds up on the next, giving couples the chance to inhale and put into practice the skills and knowledge learned each session. To Lea, it is vital she shares her knowledge of this evidence-based course to help you make informed decisions on your journey to childbirth. Lea will be with you every step of the way leading you through the topics offered across the program. Why Choose Lea Bailey? The journey to childbirth is full of excitement, happiness, and also anxiety for most couples. Lea considers it a privilege to be invited to share and guide you through this milestone. Whether this pregnancy is your first or fourth, Lea has the ability to calm you and gently draw your focus to you and the ways of coming to birth. When you work with Lea she considers herself part of your team, you are at the heart of the experience and information she offers. Her passion is to encourage normal birth, and offer strategies to those in her local community to achieve the most positive outcomes for your family. There are four pillars within the program Though Lea’s service is based on a proven program, these sessions you have with Lea will leave you feeling like you’re just visited a good friend. Lea’s aim is to establish trust and provide you with a place and space that enables you to express your concerns, learn and build your knowledge, and skills in preparation for childbirth and parenthood. A program is only as good as how it’s delivered and received. Lea understands we all learn and retain information and skills in different ways. That is why partnering with Lea is the right choice for the team to journey towards childbirth. 1. The Psychology of Birth Here, Lea walks you and your partner through the importance of the women’s emotional state during pregnancy and birth . How you can change your mindset and negative beliefs about childbirth, explore the role your partner plays in childbirth, and understand how your state of mind impacts your body. Your emotional state is supported in this part of the program. Looking at ways your partner can protect your emotional safety on the day can really bring you to readiness for a wonderful birth experience. Lea also brings to your attention the importance of working with your body, not against it; having the focus on a positive mindset towards birth. 2. The Physiology of Birth This part of the program explores how your body works at birth, and Lea leads you through ways of working with your body's reaction to the various stages of birth. She explains how the uterus works and how it responds to you and your baby, and will guide you through the phases of labour and prepare you for the unexpected. With Lea’s guidance, you revisit the role of your partner in childbirth, and she explores the different scenarios of birth including induction, and cesarean. Other tools for a calm birth are explored here. Lea walks you through conscious breathing techniques and how this one technique can help you work with your body in childbirth. Ways to measure your comfort level, and how your reaction and awareness can play a role in a positive birthing experience. Lea also shows you active birth positions which work with your body, and how applying acupressure techniques can offer relief. 3. Birth Toolbox Being prepared for childbirth is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your family has a happy and joyous birthing journey. This is where Lea helps you through the final steps of pulling everything you have learned into focus. Remember, Lea is team YOU and it is here where she sees how your confidence and mindset have shifted to a new understanding. A determination to centre your energy on a positive birthing journey. 4. Conscious Parenting Lea knows the journey has just begun when you first find out you’re pregnant. And leading up to the birth she talks about a conscious connection with each other and the baby as a family unit. That connection is heightened after birth with skin on skin, breastfeeding, and your partner bonding with the baby. Your well-being and happiness in this new phase of parenthood is what Lea sees as success for you and your family. Lea is always open to discussing your birthing journey with you, and she looks forward to being part of your team during this special time. Testimonial Navigating being pregnant during a pandemic was a bizarre experience and an added stress. With so many medical appointments and tests it all starts to become overwhelming, especially when you have to attend them alone and with COVID protocols. The Calm Birth class with Lea, being able to attend it via zoom and in the comfort of my own home was a huge relief! Lea teaching from the Mid North Coast and we’re in Sydney. Lea is so knowledgeable, kind and calming! After every lesson my husband and I felt reassured, educated and less anxious! We felt like we can actually do this, bring our beautiful baby into the world. Even though I had a highly medicalised labour as I had to be induced, we used the Calm Birth techniques and skills that we had learnt and felt confident to express ourselves in the sometimes stressful hospital environment. We were so blessed to have had Lea as our teacher, I can’t recommend Lea and the Calm Birth experience enough! It was the warm reassuring hug that we needed just before our lives changed forever! Lauren, Steve and Baby Eloise Zoom and face-to-face appointments available. Contact Lea Bailey for a calm birth. t/ 0438978500 e/ allaboutcalmbirth@bigpond.com w/ optimalmidwifery.wordpress.com | calmbirth.com f/ www.facebook.com/optimalwidwifery Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

Spring 2021 eyewear fashion statement Our trends point towards designs that are bolder, edgy or confidently oversized. Retro aviators and cat-eye frames will still stay and are given the contemporary make-over with either translucent metallics or multi-coloured frames. We asked Optex about their Spring 2021 eyewear colours. Optex eyewear is lovingly handcrafted in Australia, and always with a quality professional touch. Their Spring colours radiate excitement and adventure under our homeland Australia’s exhilarating blue skies, oceans, open spaces and generous sunshine. This year Optex Australia works with renowned manufacturers to bring private labels a stunning range of uniquely handcrafted bio-acetates. "We have developed an exciting range of pearl colours in partnership with our international artisans. These colours are being released as a limited edition range that includes Marble Rain, Nordic Champagne, Sandy Rise, Pacific Earth and Vera Rose.", says Greg French at Optex Australia. Striking Silvers Optex's 2021 bio-acetate colours have a striking silvers range with a space-age feel. Marble Rain has exciting specks of gold with a creamy earth tone. Finished with a hypnotic marble effect, it makes one's gaze linger ... Book this Marble Rain coloured bio-acetate Nordic Champagne stands out with its ability to exude different qualities - modern, elegant, quirky or even retro. Book this Nordic Champagne coloured bio-acetate Beaches and Oceans of Australia Optex wants its 2021 acetate colours to reflect the sandy beaches and vast blue oceans of Australia. Wear the feel of Sandy Rise and Pacific Earth. Sandy Rise will remind you of the warm, beautiful beaches of Port Macquarie where our factory is. The different tones of the sand are rich and give the design quite a body. Book Sandy Rise coloured bio-acetate Pacific Earth is a mix of the mysterious opal and the mesmerising colours of the ocean. Book Pacific Earth coloured bio-acetate Red, Red Rose Another special highlight to round off the range is their intoxicating Vera Rose. Vera Rose like the others is made of high-quality, handcrafted bio- acetates. If you need that extra punch, add Vera Rose to your bold collection. Book Vera Rose coloured bio-acetate. What are Bio-Acetates? Optex has sustainability practices that are valuable to our physical environment. Their eyewear frames are made with bio-acetates also know as cellulose acetates, which are plant-based materials. Acetate is made up of a (bio) polymer derived from wood (tree) pulp and/or natural cotton fibers. For fashionable spectacles, Optex prefers bio-acetates because the material: does not harm the environment is made from renewable materials is hypoallergenic come in all colours of the rainbow can be made beautifully transparent are high-grade, highly unique versions that are fit adjustable by opticians are known for their lightweight thin constructions and strength remain flexible with glass-like clarity. boast the widest range of finishes—from high luster polish, matte, or brushed. If you're a private label planning to launch your own branded sunglasses or eyewear, reach out to Optex early in the game because: Producing a frame is actually a long, intricate assembly process of over 60 steps that require precision, professionalism and patience at every point; Optex’s custom made bio-acetate range is a premium material that has been carefully chosen for its hardness and quality. Formed and layered from traditional block processes, the material is of exceptional quality. Worked through our finishing processes, the material offers, stunning finishes, enhanced effects and brilliant colour finishes. Production deadline for interested labels is 31st May 2021 Private Label Enquiry https://www.optexaust.com.au/private-labels Optex Australia Pty Ltd t: +61 2 6584 8907 e: info@optexaust.com.au a: 29 Jindalee Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here.

PHOTO CREDIT: THE CONTENTED LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY The Kyokushin Karate School environment is a place for karate parents and students come together to learn, play, practice, party, run, go to tournaments, camps, seminars or go surfing or horse riding on team building weekends. PHOTO CREDIT: THE CONTENTED LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY KARATE KID ON THE SPECTRUM Our autism program is thriving. If you have a child with special needs, you might want to sign them up for Karate Kid on the Spectrum. Discuss private and group options with us. We would love to see your child succeed. REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR TERM 3, 2021 KYOKUSHIN KARATE CLUB A beautiful Japanese style dojo. Students learn Japanese language, gymnastics, fitness, flexibility. Not only a karate dojo, but a family where all care for each other and all students receive help individually. Contact Sensei Melinda Baksi, Kyokushin Karate Port Macquarie Dojo: +61 0404527973 www.portkarate.com info@portkarate.com 6 Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 Facebook: Kyokushinkai Karate Port Macquarie Dojo Instagram: PortKarate Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .

What comes to your mind when you see the word 'rugby'? Large, tall, muscular, heavyweight, big, sweaty men running after one another in a field probably. Rugby takes on a whole new meaning and looks when you visit Rugbytots . Forget the image of the tough, sweaty men. Here you have a field full of delighted toddlers who are experts in their own right at rugby! Yes! Tots and rugby. Strange bedfellows but it totally makes sense when you watch the little experts at Rugbytots at work. Sporty Tots Rugbytots was started in the UK in 2006 by a rugby-loving father, Max Webb. He had three little boys who were not yet three then, and he realised that there were no rugby programmes for preschoolers and toddlers. You could find fingerpainting and cupcake-making and karate and a whole variety of fun activities but rugby was strangely missing from the offering. And what does one do in this situation? Max rolled up his sleeves, put on his rugby gear and started Rugbytots ! The beautiful thing about new ventures is that once Max started Rugbytots , he discovered that he was not the only parent looking for a rugby play programme for their children. He had actually stumbled upon an amazing niche - rugby for toddlers is turning out to be an exciting gap in the early childhood development sector. And the fun is spreading beyond what Max could have imagined when he first started Rugbytots . Its simple motto of 'Make it More Fun' is catching on to 20 countries over 7 continents. Today in Australia, trained coaches deliver hundreds of classes every week, and the numbers keep growing. Rugbytots is growing big and strong and is scoring goals everywhere. Rebecca Redfern, Operations Manager and Franchise Support is proud of the world's favourite rugby play programme and how it is fast becoming the go-to sport for youngsters on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Scoring in Australia Rebecca and her husband Israel learnt about Rugbytots on Facebook in late 2015 and that got them excited. They started Rugbytots Mid North Coast in April 2016 and there was no looking back. They had just had a little boy then, and Israel was looking for a way to spend more time with Toby as he was growing up. He had a passion for sport, especially the Rugby League and it was a dream come true to be able to share his passion with his son. Rebecca and Israel launched classes on weekends in Port Macquarie and it became so popular that demand grew for other locations. Israel was still working a full-time job of 40+ hours a week, but he got so much drive and energy out of this new passion that he was running classes in Port Macquarie, Laurieton, Taree, Wauchope and Kempsey on the weekends. Rugby tots turned out to be something Rebecca and Israel truly wanted to dedicate their time and energy to. In 2017 they dived into the deep end and quit their full-time jobs to concentrate on building their tot-sized business. It was gruelling financially at the start and they had a lot of doubts about whether they made the right decision. They both felt it was something worth sticking to, and a rough start is not uncommon for many small businesses. It takes tenacity and nerves of steel to get a small business up and going. Rebecca and Israel wanted to get the word out and have as many people know about Rugbytots as possible. In 2017, they took their program into Early Learning Centres with Daycare on Lincoln and Columba Cottage. Both were excited about the proposal and jumped on board. Today, rugby classes continue to go strong at both centres. Coming Full Circle In 2018, Rebecca and Israel were approached by the UK to assist in running the Australian operations. They did not hesitate and took up the challenge. Both Rebecca and Israel have taken on the full Master Franchise position for Australia and are fielding enquiries for new franchises weekly. Rugbytots is no longer a tot-sized business. It has grown beyond their wildest dreams. 5 years on, Rebecca and Israel are both still as passionate as ever about what they do. Israel is secretly delighted with Rugbytots as it allows the Big Kid in him to get into the fun even while he is 'at work'! How many people can boast they love 'playing' at work? Rebecca is the pillar behind the scenes, making sure the operations run smoothly and she is the one to handle problems outside the field. Both Rebecca and Israel work full time for Rugbytots and they love every second of what they do. Growing Big and Strong Rebecca and Israel have coaches helping them run the classes. With Rugbytots growing so fast, they have had to move the Port Macquarie classes to the Hibbard Sports Club on Boundary Road in order to expand what they are able to offer to parents. They are planning to open up more classes in other areas this year. Rebecca and Israel are always on the lookout for like-minded, sports-loving people to join their team. They want Rugbytots to grow big and strong on the Mid North Coast. And who knows where it could grow to next? Children love Rugbytots . It has become a place where they can enjoy expending their energy with other children, not to mention picking up amazing coordination skills and teamworking skills as well. Some are even getting better than their fathers at dodging and are able to give a useful tip or two to their old man and help daddy improve in his game! The joy of each child is the priority at Rugbytots and parents are loving watching how their children develop confidence in what they love doing. A Growing Family Beyond having a business grow in success, Rebecca and Israel (or Bec and Izzy as they are affectionately known at Rugbytots ) have made amazing friends through what they are doing at Rugbytots , and they have forged relationships that they treasure, and their son Toby also has a huge family of mates that he is growing up with at Rugbytots . For Rebecca and Israel, meeting all the children who are so eager about sports, and getting to know them and their families is the biggest profit they have reaped from taking that leap of faith back in 2017 to make a change to their lives with Rugbytots . Watch that tot - he may well dodge better than you can if he is an old-timer at Rugbytots ! Contact Rugby Tots Port Macquarie 12 Burrawong Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Web / www.rugbytots.com.au Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/RugbytotsMidNorthCoast/ Email / israel@rugbytots.com.au Advertise with Brilliant-Online The purpose of Brilliant is to push for a better world in the digital era. Brilliant-Online is an empowering read for progressive individuals and dynamic businesses. - PERSPECTIVES of the world, environment and businesses. - LUXE, latest trends and products in fashion, motoring, grooming, watches, jewellery, design, technology, food and wine, property, architecture and interiors. - FACES, aspiring individuals. For all enquiries about advertising with Brilliant-Online, please contact us here .