38 minute read
TWINKLE, TWINKLE
FAMILY: STAR ACADEMY
WORDS Em Worthington PHOTOS Media Inc. Film & Photo
There’s so much more to performing arts than just concerts and costumes, and Star Academy is all about the bigger picture.
Every parent makes a wish when they hold their baby for the first time — for that precious little person to be happy. Regardless of their path in life, we want our kids to be well balanced and to believe in themselves — get that foundation right and the world is theirs for the taking. This is the backbone of Star Academy, a Grote Street institution providing top-quality education in all facets of performing arts from the age of three.
With a huge range of classes from beginner to advanced, Star Academy is an inspiring and fun way for your little ones to build lifelong friendships and get in touch with their own potential, regardless of whether their eyes are set on a career in the entertainment industry or it’s for fun and fitness. The line-up Classical, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip hop, singing, drama, musical theatre, acrobatics — there’s a class for every little star and one on one or group options, too. There’s a recreational stream as well as an elite program for students wanting to participate in competitions and exams, and all facilities are top of the pops.
And the biggest thing on the calendar is the end of year production. “It’s always something big, dramatic, with a strong storyline and great music. Even the dads won’t nod off,” laughs Founder and Creative Director Jenna Maiolo.
A quick chat with Jenna raises the curtain on why this studio is so popular with families all over Adelaide. Her combination of experience and passion for lifelong learning has me wanting to shrink myself back to being a small fry so I can go to a Star class.
“I want the kids who walk through our door to grow up to be passionate about whatever they do in life. We’re teaching life skills — discipline, time management, teamwork and working your butt off. I want to instil in them that if they love what they do, work hard and take pride in it, success will follow,” Jenna says.
The mentors The difference between a good and an incredible place for any kind of education is the people, and every one of Jenna’s teachers knocks it out of the park.
“It’s super important that our students are getting the right education and the
FAMILY: STAR ACADEMY
right mix of people. Our team is led by School Principal Kristy Burns, who has been with me since day dot. Each teacher brings something different so our students get the expertise, passion and life skills of someone incredible in each class,” Jenna says proudly.
Bigger roles Their unique position to be steady role models for their students in an everchanging world hit home for Jenna and her team recently. “We’ve really noticed the way that things like social media have added to pressures on kids today. When one of our students was battling anxiety, it sparked the idea to raise money for Kids Helpline — they’re an incredible service for children needing to talk to someone. That idea of being able to open up the conversation about mental health and supporting those in need has led to an exciting partnership between our two organisations, so stay tuned for more details soon.” Party time! Unicorns, slime, manis and pedis, ballerinas and fairies or superheroes — whatever your little one is into, Star Academy can make all their birthday dreams come true. Their range of themed parties, bespoke events and character hire will leave you and your kiddos gob-smacked. Take the stress out of celebrating by letting the Star team take the reins, but don’t delay… they book up fast as lightning and there’s a good reason for it!
@staracademy_adelaide staracademy.com.au
FAMILY: MY CARE SOLUTION
WORDS Millie Looker PHOTOS Sweet Lime Photography
There’s no need to give up your independence before you’re ready now you’ve got My Care Solution on your side.
As someone with three incredibly independent grandparents at the head of our family, I know how lucky I am to be able to pop around to their home for a cuppa and a chinwag. Like it is for so many, their home is their happy place!
South Australian mother and daughter Lee and Gabby McBriarty saw how important it was for ageing generations to be able to stay in their own homes while still feeling supported and safe — and so, My Care Solution was born. This awardwinning company provides a model of care that is unique to its industry.
“My mum has experience as a palliative care nurse, but our approach actually stems from my dad’s 15 years with Hilton Hotels. We provide in-home hospitality to our clients, with a dedicated client care coordinator and twenty-four seven access to a range of services and concierge-like support,” says Chief Operating Officer Gabby.
If your loved one needs it, My Care Solution can do it! They boast a huge range of services from basic support, such as personal care, housekeeping, transport and meal preparation, all the way through to more complex support, such as allied health, nursing, twentyfour-hour and overnight care, dementia care and palliative care.
Is your loved one worried about greeting a new face at the door every day? Wash that worry away, because My Care Solution works with a small nurse-led care team, handpicked and matched to each person’s needs and personality so the client can get to know and trust the people visiting their home.
And if you’re just dipping a toe into the world of support and in-home care for yourself or a loved one, your client care coordinator will be your new bestie, designing and managing an in-care home experience that suits. “We also provide free in-home consultations with families who don’t know where to start or might need help registering for government assistance,” smiles Gabby.
Since its creation in 2018, My Care Solution has been recognised for its model by the Australian Financial Review in 2020 and shortlisted for the Most Innovative Companies Award, Australia wide!
With three offices in Campbelltown, Morphett Vale and Victor Harbor, there’s local support right around the corner, waiting to help you navigate the complex aged-care system.
Photo: Supplied.
@mycaresolutionau mycaresolution.com.au
An education with no limits
WORDS James Worthington
As parents, we tell our kids that the world is their oyster! If they work hard, they can be whatever they want to be. Mercedes College makes sure that these childhood dreams, however big, are possible and that young adults don’t lose sight of what makes them tick.
Think back to when you were growing up and trying to map out life after Year 12. Your thought process may have been limited to your hometown or even where your parents found work and settled. But why?
For over 30 years, Mercedes College has been helping students to become globally minded, critical thinkers who are well prepared if they want, or need, to complete further study abroad. The International Baccalaureate programme gets them ready for life in an increasingly intercultural world, through independent thinking and by taking an active role in the community. This holistic approach to education encourages students to find a balance of academic success, community service, and all important personal health and wellbeing.
Mercedes first became an IB World School in 1989 and by 1997, was formally recognised as the first Asia-Pacific region school to offer the IB programme from Reception to Year 12. The college has been applauded for its educational excellence and leadership while helping students develop these important life skills across three stages — the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Reception to Year 5; the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Years 6 to 10; and the Diploma Programme (DP) for Years 11 to 12.
Adrian Chiarolli, Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning says, “The continuum of learning across the different stages of development provides diverse opportunities for students to shape who they are as learners. Their experiences and interactions prepare them to be open minded and critical thinkers in a world that is continually evolving”.
Mercedes College’s IB programme fast tracks each student’s ability to learn and think independently; skills that would normally be acquired during tertiary learning. Adrian says, “The IB promotes an authentic inquiry approach with a focus on context and concepts rather than solely on content. In this way, knowledge is built in partnership with the student and is transferable across different and unique situations”.
FAMILY: MERCEDES COLLEGE
@mercedescollegeadelaide mercedes.catholic.edu.au
FAMILY: ADELAIDE BMW
Cool mum vibes
WORDS Lauren De Cesare
This year, I said goodbye to carefree Lauren and hello to being a bit more sensible.
As soon as I found out I was pregnant, I knew my life was about to change forever. I was so excited about becoming a new mum but also scared of losing my identity and becoming a bit boring.
At 37 weeks pregnant, I made the decision to swap my beloved bright blue BMW X2 two-door sporty coupe for my new, grown-up family car — the X4.
Look, I’m no car enthusiast, but I am a woman who knows what she wants. So, here are the five reasons I love Adelaide BMW’s X4...
You can still be cool I can’t actually tell a huge difference between the X2 and X4. From the outside, it may look less racey than the X2, but inside, it’s decked out with all the latest technology. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE CAR — IT’S ABOUT THE ADELAIDE BMW TEAM, TOO. THEY ALWAYS GO ABOVE AND BEYOND.
I’m obsessed with its in-built personal assistant, which I can literally ask anything — “Hey BMW, what’s the weather today?” or “Hey BMW, play ABC Kids”. Not to mention the parking assistant, which means I can confidently park my beemer on King William Road without embarrassing myself.
Oh, the space The boot is huge — like it was made to fit the largest pram on the market, an entire wardrobe, a bunch of baby belongings and my six foot four partner. Getting a car seat in and out is a breeze and there’s the perfect gap between where I sit and the back seat, so I can fit in my gigantic handbag, shopping and Sofia’s nappy bag.
Warm toosh Two words — heated seats! Sometimes when my partner gets home I tell him I’m popping out to the shops, but in reality, I’m sitting in my car around the corner, cranking the seat warmer with a coffee in hand.
Smarter than me After three months of very little sleep, the mum brain is real — but my new bestie has my back. For example, without thinking, I loaded up the boot while the car was locked and then realised I’d chucked my keys in the boot and shut it. Luckily, the X4 knew the car was locked and automatically opened up the boot again to alert me that the keys were in it!
The babysitter It’s not just about the car — it’s about the Adelaide BMW team, too. They always go above and beyond — even carrying Sofia and her pram up two flights of stairs so we could have a coffee together. How’s that for service? They answer all your silly questions without making you feel foolish, and when you buy a car from Adelaide BMW, they offer a one on one lesson to learn about all its secret features.
Thank you, Adelaide BMW, for making me feel like I’m still cool. I’ll always remember the car that safely brought my first child home from the hospital.
@adelaidebmwofficial adelaidebmw.com.au
FAMILY: URBAN PET FOOD
WORDS Em Worthington
They’re our family members and BFFs — doggos deserve only the best!
We spend so much time thinking about what we put into our bodies, it makes sense to really consider what we’re feeding our furry friends — and Urban Pet Food is all-over-red-rover it!
There’s no need to gamble with the health of your bestie. For the past 30 years, these local legends have been making premium quality pet food using local ingredients at their Edwardstown warehouse. To pack in as much nutrition as possible, the food is cooked slowly, air dried at a low temperature, contains no preservatives and is so good that (even though you prolly wouldn’t) humans could safely eat it.
Tanya Maher has worked here for over 10 years and loves giving people a topshelf choice for their loved ones. “I’ve had two dogs and have only fed them this food because I know what goes into it. I’m confident my fur baby is getting the best nutrition possible and it all gets gobbled up in no time,” she laughs.
Photo: JR Photo and Video.
Formulated by nutritionists, the biologically appropriate raw food contains added protein, seasonal fruit and veggies, and things like yoghurt to make up a balanced diet for your four-legged friends. “We offer different ranges for each breed and have products that are suitable for most dogs and some cats. One of our most popular is our signature product, the Ancestral Recipe, which is basically a muesli for dogs. We always recommend chatting to your vet about your pet’s diet first, but then we can run through great options to suit.”
There are nom-noms for every budget, including treats for training adorable pups to spoiling sleepy old bears. And even better, Urban Pet Food offers free delivery* right to your doorstep Australia wide. And they’re right behind some incredible charities that provide a chance at life and a forever home for thousands of abandoned dogs and cats every year. Ohh, our hearts!
Sure, it can be convenient to grab a bag of whatever from the supermarket, but it makes so much sense to us to support local and most importantly, invest in the health and wellbeing of our most faithful companions. There really isn’t another soul who will love you so wholly and unconditionally — and to us, that love is worth its weight in gold.
*Delivery conditions apply.
@urbanpetfood5039 urbanpetfood.com.au
FAMILY: NUMBERWORKS’NWORDS
WORDS Hayley Pearson PHOTOS Wayne Pearson
Home schooling during lockdown uncovered some dirty laundry for many SA families.
Last year I realised what a terrible ‘teacher’ I was and that I had absolutely zero patience. I also found out that my then eight-year-old, who I’d thought was loving maths at school, was actually really struggling. Simple things that most Year 3s understood, he just couldn’t grasp. This then developed into me having severe mum-guilt and thinking, how did we not know this? Why did it take a lockdown to realise that he wasn’t where he should be?
In a panic, I Googled ‘Adelaide tutors’ and NumberWorks’nWords popped up — English and maths tutoring for every ability. And weirdly enough, it was love at first sight for Austin.
Fast forward twelve months and my now nine-year-old is a different kid. I’m not saying he’s suddenly Einstein, but he actually now enjoys maths and he’s gone from getting scores like 3/30 to 25/30 in school tests.
With locations in Unley and Norwood, NumberWorks’nWords is not just for children who are struggling to keep up in Maths and English — it’s also for kids bursting at the seams to get ahead. Aimed at children between five and 16, their programs are tailored to meet your child’s specific needs and most importantly, give them confidence and make life easier at school.
“We welcome you to come into our centre and see our students happily engaged in their learning programs. If you’re not sure, try a free assessment in English and/or maths for your child — there’s absolutely no obligation to sign up. It’s simply a great opportunity for you to discover how your child is progressing,” says owner Stella.
And apparently it’s FUN! Just ask my son Austin. “They teach me to learn and get better at maths, and it’s actually fun. We do maths games on the computer and they test us and I normally get 100 percent now, which is so cool. Sometimes we have quizzes at the end of the lesson and I get to choose a prize.”
All tutors are fully trained, are experts in their field and regularly give you updates on where your child is at — and Austin’s update is that he’s right where he’s meant to be.
@numberworksadelaide
numberworksnwords.com/au
All’s hair in love and war
WORDS Em Worthington
Once upon a time, mornings for mamas were balls — and then, an Ugly Swan came to save the day!
For less stress, no tears and tidy tots in the mornings, the superior brushes from Ugly Swan are a game changer. With families in mind, three local ladies, Marissa, Annette and Marisa, created a brush to rival all others — one that glides effortlessly through the knottiest of knots without evoking so much as a whimper.
“Our own experiences getting kids ready sparked it all — we didn’t want our families to start the day with yelling and screaming anymore, and we knew it didn’t have to be like that,” says Marissa.
Detangle this mangle So, what separates an Ugly Swan brush from the rest of the bevy? They’re particularly great for people with sensory issues and they’re even recognised by the NDIS. “Synthetic bristles in the average brush rip the hair. Our exclusive design has dual bristles made from natural fibres, so there’s no pulling or tugging. It’s gentle, even on the most sensitive of scalps — it’s truly scream-free and even dubious dads will be confident using one!”
Ugly Swan’s Scream-Free™ hair detangler brushes come in two sizes… Scream-Free™ Palm Hair Brush: Palm Flexi – Fitting snugly in the palm of your hand, this baby is perfect for toddlers who want to be in control or for chucking in your handbag or schoolbag. And for every mum who’s battled to get the perfect bun or high pony sans bumps, say hello to your new BFF. Scream-Free™ Maxi Brush – For everyday brushing of long, curly, fine or thick hair, the Maxi is the bee’s knees. And if you want one of each or multiple brushes for the fam, they come in handy packs, too.
Not just for kids There’s no excluding the big kids! While originally designed with smaller folks in mind, they can be used for all ages. “Our brushes are popular with girls, boys, men and women. Many women find their hair is affected by hormonal changes as they age, and our brushes can prevent split ends and breakage as well as stimulating your scalp to naturally produce oils that condition the hair. It can also mean less washing, as these oils naturally clean and prevent dandruff,” Marissa explains.
When it comes to cost, an Ugly Swan purchase is worth every cent. “You can spend money on expensive shampoos, conditioners and serums, but if you’re using a synthetic brush, you could be undoing any good you’ve done and end up damaging your hair every day,” says Marissa.
“We’ve had parents in tears telling us what a huge difference one little thing has made to their daily routine,” says Marissa. Jump online to also check out Ugly Swan’s Unicorn Hair Towel Wraps, which give you a fast, gentle way to dry hair without friction. Even better, get 10% off all online purchases when you use the code ADELADY before 30 May 2022.
Hair, hair!
FAMILY: UGLY SWAN
@ugly_swan_ uglyswan.com.au
FAMILY: SCOTCH COLLEGE
High school musical
WORDS Em Worthington
The lights go down, the curtain rolls up and a world of opportunity is born.
Welcome to the wonderful world of performing arts — rich in history, emotion and entertainment, it’s something that Scotch College does incredibly well! The opportunities for students at Scotch College to immerse themselves in the performing arts are next level. Cue the lights…
The foundation Head of Drama Nicola Triglau says the sky's the limit. “Scotch offers a breadth and depth of performing arts opportunities like no other. Students can focus on one or many areas and engage in what they love. Every year, we’ve had students going on to study at some of the most renowned performing arts schools, including NIDA, WAAPA, the VCA and Flinders Drama Centre. The line-up of successful old scholars speaks volumes,” Nicola says.
“Highly-acclaimed Australian actress Sarah Snook focused her path on the curriculum drama program and straight acting. We’ve had others, like Benn Welford, engage in both the musical and drama curriculum and go on to travel internationally with The Lion King; and another student who has gone straight to the Sydney Conservatorium to study contemporary music practice.
“Even for those who don’t pursue a career in the performing arts sector, the confidence and skills they learn are so transferrable. We’ve had drama students go on to become lawyers, politicians, anaesthetists, you name it, and many of them acknowledge that learning how to communicate through their body and voice has helped them to become successful in their chosen careers.”
The musical Scotch College has a history of putting on great musicals each year — this year is no different with Beauty and The Beast. As an extracurricular activity that’s independent to the drama program (although a lot of students naturally get involved in both), it involves around 80 students from Years 7 to 12 who perform, are in the crew or musical ensemble, so it’s an allhands-on-deck kind of thing. With seven performances that sold out in record time, the anticipation for this year’s production was electric.
Scotch College brought in awardwinning performer, teacher, director and owner of Davine Productions, David Gauci,
Imogeone Mons.
FAMILY: SCOTCH COLLEGE
to head up the musical. “I’ve been involved in community and professional theatre my whole life but this is my first year working with Scotch, and it’s been incredible. It’s quite a team here — a very slick running unit, with everyone working hard to give the students an experience as close as possible to a professional musical. I’m so fortunate to work with them, I really am,” David says.
The cast Year 12 student, Imogeone Mons is taking Stage Two Drama and Music and is playing the lead role of Belle in the musical. “It’s been great to be part of it, and the costumes have been spectacular,” she says.
“It’s been such an experience and we’ve become like a family. The younger kids start out shy and then you see the confidence they gain when they put themselves on stage — it’s really exciting to see their progression. And the ensemble is just as big a part; we can’t do it without them.”
Imogeone has her heart firmly set on a career in the performing arts and Scotch is right behind her. “Hopefully drama will be my top option, but I’m also thinking about studying classical music so I’m trying to keep my options open.”
Whatever her path, we’re sure that like any of the students who have been under Scotch College’s watch, it will undoubtedly be bright.
@scotchcollege scotch.sa.edu.au
FOOD: KYTONS BAKERY
We used: A Kytons Traditional Christmas Pudding and Kytons Mince Pies Leave the baking up to family-owned Kytons Bakery! With over 80 years of experience and a huge range of delicious goods, this SA brand will always have a place at our table. For more recipes, head to kytonsbakery.com.au/recipes.
Summer eats
The ultimate festive platter
Let the festive feelings flow with this giant share platter of goodies. Time 30 mins Serves 10 Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
1 large Kytons Traditional Christmas Pudding 12 Kytons Mince Pies Seasonal fruit
Caramel sauce 200g brown sugar 4 tbsp unsalted butter 140ml thickened cream 1 tsp vanilla paste Pinch of salt Vanilla Bean Custard 4 eggs 250ml milk 280ml thickened cream 1 tbsp cornflour 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 75g caster sugar
• To make the caramel sauce, combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer over low heat, whisking constantly until thickened. • Once the mixture is no longer watery, remove from heat and set aside to cool. Note: the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chilled. • To make the custard, combine milk and cream in a medium saucepan over a low-medium heat, stirring constantly. • After a couple of minutes, add vanilla bean paste and continue to cook for approximately 5 minutes or until hot — do not boil. Remove the saucepan from heat. • In a bowl, beat egg yolks, sugar and cornflour with an electric mixer. Turn the mixer to low and slowly pour in the hot milk mixture. Steadily increase the speed and keep mixing until combined and smooth. • Return the mixture to a saucepan over a low heat.
Cook, stirring constantly until the custard thickens to your liking. Do not allow the custard to boil, as it may curdle. Serve warm or cooled. • To assemble, serve the caramel sauce and custard in jugs on a platter filled with cut pieces of mince pie, Christmas pudding and seasonal fruit. Enjoy with friends and family!
@kytonsbakery kytonsbakery.com.au
Tuscan chicken with creamy sauce
Transport your tastebuds to Tuscany with this chicken dish paired with a silky sauce. Time 30 mins Serves 4 Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
2 tbsp olive oil 3–4 large chicken breasts 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Salt and pepper 4 tbsp plain flour 4 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
Sauce 4 garlic cloves, minced 150g semi-sundried tomatoes 1 tbsp flour 225ml Fleurieu Milk Company Pouring Cream 425ml chicken broth 100g grated parmesan cheese 1 tsp Italian seasoning Black pepper 200g baby spinach leaves Crusty bread for serving (optional)
• Place one chicken breast at a time into a large zip-lock bag and pound until an even thickness.
Season each side of the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. • Combine flour and grated parmesan in a shallow bowl. Dip the chicken breast into the mixture, coating both sides. • Heat a large pan over a medium-high heat and add olive oil. Place the chicken pieces into the pan and cook for 4–5 minutes each side or until cooked through and golden on both sides. • Remove chicken from the pan, place on a plate, cover with foil and set aside. • Return the pan to heat (don’t clean it in between).
Add garlic and semi-sundried tomatoes and cook until fragrant. • Add cream, chicken broth, parmesan cheese,
Italian seasoning and a pinch of pepper. Stir to combine, then allow sauce to thicken slightly before adding the spinach. • Add the chicken back into the pan and coat in the sauce. Allow it to continue simmering until heated through and spinach is wilted. Serve directly from the pan or in a large serving dish. • Best served with crusty bread or seasonal vegetables.
@fleurieu_milk_company fleurieumilkco.com.au
FOOD: FLEURIEU MILK COMPANY
We used: Fleurieu Milk Company Pouring Cream Not only does the Fleurieu Milk Company produce quality products, they’re also passionate supporters of local dairy farmers and the community. Their pouring cream is 100 percent natural, contains no additives or thickeners and delivers A-grade taste to every dish. Find their products at your local supermarket.
FOOD: LILYDALE FREE RANGE CHICKEN
Butter chicken pita pockets
A great way to add a twist to a family favourite. Time 25 mins Serves 8 Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
2 tbsp olive oil 8 Lilydale Free Range Chicken Bulk Thigh Fillets 375g butter chicken simmer sauce 2 Lebanese cucumbers, grated and water squeezed out 500g Greek yoghurt 2 large garlic cloves, minced Pinch of salt 8 heat and serve pita pockets, warmed 210g long-grain rice, cooked One bunch of coriander leaves, roughly chopped to serve Lemon or limes wedges, to serve
• Heat olive oil in a large frypan over mediumhigh heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on the outside, then add the butter chicken simmer sauce and a splash of water. Leave to simmer for 8–10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Set aside and allow to cool slightly. • In a small mixing bowl, combine Greek yoghurt, one grated cucumber, garlic and a pinch of salt. Set aside. • Grate the remaining cucumber and squeeze out the water, then set aside in a small bowl. • Once the chicken has cooled slightly, remove from the sauce and use two forks to shred chicken thighs. Add back into sauce and stir to coat. • Take half of a pita pocket and fill the opening with cooked rice, fresh coriander, grated cucumber, butter chicken mixture and garlic and cucumber yoghurt. • Add an optional squeeze of lemon or lime and serve immediately.
@lilydalefreerange lilydalefreerange.com.au
We used: Lilydale Free Range Chicken Bulk Thigh Fillets Thriving on fresh, healthy food for families to enjoy in their own kitchens, Lilydale is determined to offer Australians the highest quality free-range chicken available. Straight from their farms to your kitchen, you’ll taste the difference when you grab a pack of Lilydale Chicken that’s big enough to feed the whole family. For more fresh recipes, head to lilydalefreerange.com.au/recipes.
FOOD: NIPPY’S
Dairy-free chocolate waffles
Don’t miss out on a delicious dessert — make it dairy-free! Time 20 mins Makes 8 waffles Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
3 eggs 1 cup Nippy’s Dutch Chocolate Flavoured Oat Milk 125g dairy-free unsalted butter, melted 1 tsp vanilla paste 60g plain flour 35g caster sugar Seasonal fruit, to serve Dairy-free gelato or ice cream, to serve Chocolate sauce, to serve
• Preheat waffle maker. • Whisk eggs, flavoured oat milk, butter and vanilla in a medium bowl. • Add flour and sugar to the mixing bowl and whisk until the mixture comes together as a smooth batter. • Add a scoop of the mixture to your waffle maker and cook according to the waffle maker instructions. • Garnish with seasonal fruit, ice cream, chocolate sauce and serve immediately.
@nippys_au nippys.com.au
We used: Nippy’s Dutch Chocolate Flavoured Oat Milk Proudly South Australian, Nippy’s keeps giving us delicious products to fall in love with! Their new range of flavoured oat milks is a hit with everyone who tries them, whether you need dairy-free or not. Available in your local supermarket or you can check out Nippy’s full range of products at nippys.com.au.
FOOD: MENZ FRUCHOCS
White chocolate and raspberry tart
The real burst of flavour in this tart comes from the pops of FruChocs. Time 1 hour + 3 hours to set Serves 8 Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
1 pack shortcrust pastry, thawed 250g white cooking chocolate, melted 135g White Choc Raspberry FruChocs, blitzed into crumbs 150ml full cream milk 155ml thickened cream 4 gelatine leaves 30g caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla bean paste Fresh berries for garnish (optional) Gold leaf, for garnish (optional) Extra White Choc Raspberry FruChocs, halved for garnish (optional) • Preheat oven to 160°C fan-forced. • Line a 20cm fluted tart tin with shortcrust pastry, gently pressing it into the base and sides of the tin. You may need to join a couple of pieces together at the seam to make it fit. Trim overhanging pastry until level with the top of the tin. • Prick the base of the tart tin with a fork, then place into the fridge for 20 minutes. • Remove tart base from the fridge, then line the pastry with baking paper and weights and bake for 12–14 minutes. • Remove tart from the oven, then remove paper and weights, and bake in the oven for an additional 12 minutes.
Remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely. • In a small mixing bowl, combine melted white chocolate and crumbed FruChocs. • Pour the white chocolate mixture into the cooled tart shell and place in the fridge until completely cooled. • To make the filling, heat milk, cream, sugar and vanilla bean paste in a saucepan over a low-medium heat, until almost boiling.
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool down. • Meanwhile, add gelatine leaves to a bowl of cold water and set aside to soften for 5–10 minutes. • Drain gelatine leaves and squeeze out any excess water, then whisk into the warm milk mixture. Pour the milk filling slowly into the tart tin, on top of the set white chocolate filling. Return to the fridge for at least 3 hours to set. • Decorate using fresh berries, FruChocs and gold leaf.
We used: White Choc Raspberry FruChocs Picture this — tangy, real apricots mixed with a sweet, natural raspberry flavour, smothered in rich, luscious white chocolate. That’s the goodness you can expect from the brand new White Choc Raspberry FruChocs from Menz. They’re berry delicious and almost impossible to share! Visit fruchocs.com.au for more recipe ideas.
@menzfruchocs fruchocs.com.au
Sweeten up your world with this decadent caramel bar. Time 40 mins + 6 hours to set Serves 12 Recipe Laura Bakhtiarian Photos Naomi Giatas
Base 140g plain flour 1 tsp baking powder Pinch of salt 70g unsalted butter, room temperature 35g sugar
Caramel Filling 70g unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 70g caster sugar 70g glucose syrup 375g sweetened condensed milk
Chocolate Topping 250g dark cooking chocolate 40ml thickened cream 170g Australia’s Violet Crumble Caramel bite-sized cubes, roughly chopped Melted milk chocolate for decoration (optional)
• Preheat oven to 180°C fan-forced. • To make the base, combine flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl and set aside. • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy. • Line a standard pan with sides with baking paper. Fold flour mixture into butter mixture until just combined and spread across the base of the pan. Bake in oven for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden brown. • To make the filling, combine butter, sugar, glucose syrup and condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and turns an amber color. • Spread filling mixture over the shortbread layer and set aside to cool. Once cooled completely, place in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight) to set. • To make the chocolate topping, add dark cooking chocolate and cream to a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (don’t let water touch the base of the bowl). Stir until smooth, then remove from heat. • Add broken Violet Crumble Caramel pieces into the melted chocolate and stir until well combined. Pour chocolate mixture over the cooled caramel filling and return to the fridge for 2–4 hours. • Optional for decoration, drizzle additional melted milk chocolate over the top and allow a few minutes to set. Cut into bars and serve straight from the fridge.
@australiasvioletcrumble violetcrumble.com.au
FOOD: AUSTRALIA’S VIOLET CRUMBLE
We used: Australia’s Violet Crumble Caramel It’s the shatter that matters when it comes to Australia’s Violet Crumble, and this caramel-coated honeycomb is extra sweet! Created in Australia over 100 years ago, you can find this crowdpleaser in all supermarkets. Visit violetcrumble.com.au for more recipes.
FOOD: BRIGHTON METRO HOTEL
WORDS Em Worthington
Adulting is a never-ending task to make food the whole fam will eat — Brighton Metro Hotel gives you the night off!
It can be heartbreaking to slave over a hot stove and proudly serve up dinner, only to battle with your kids to eat what’s on their plates. When you need to skip the stress and fuss, just head to Charlie’s Diner at Brighton Metro Hotel.
After a major refurbishment, this iconic hotel is looking the goods. There’s loads of natural light, comfy booths and plenty of space in this family-friendly watering hole that’s been part of Brighton’s tales for over 175 years.
LET’S EAT! Charlie’s Diner is one of the easiest ways to keep the peace in a house full of fussy eaters. It’s the new way to buffet, with smiling staff ready to dish up your meal and renowned Executive Chef Christian Abbott leading the charge. You can load up your plate with tasty options from all corners of the globe — a little bit of Italy, a dash from Asia, a sprinkle from Japan and some Modern Australian just for fun — it’s a celebration of flavours and everything you love.
It certainly makes life easier when you have kids who want something different from their comrades. And the small fries will beg to go again once they lay eyes on the lolly station and ice cream bar, plus there’s bottomless softies for them, too.
SWEETEN THE DEAL A night off doesn’t have to mean a bill as long as your arm. You know exactly what you’re up for when you walk in and pay per head and you can order drinks from the bar directly from your table using their QR code system. Plus, there are fantastic deals, including Kids Eat Free and Feed The Family options, so jump on the website for details and conditions.
There’s no need to shoot death stares at your offspring if they get ants in their pants once they finish eating, either. It’s easy to keep them in check with the entertainment room (including video games and toys) and a kids' cinema — so fill them up, then chill out while you take your time and enjoy every bite.
If à la carte is more your style, you can head into the jazzed-up Sports Bar, and the new beer garden will be ready to roll in time for warmer nights and laid-back catchups with friends.
Next time you hear the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” just smile politely and respond “Whatever you like!” — then hotfoot it down to Brighton Metro Hotel.
Photo: Darren Keane.
@brightonmetrohotel brightonmetrohotel.com.au/charlies-diner
Get your pud on
FOOD: KYTONS
WORDS Millie Looker PHOTOS Naomi Giatas
Lamingtons in lunch boxes, hot cross buns at Easter and pudding on Christmas day… Kytons is there for all of our best moments.
The Kytons Bakery Australia story is a tale as old as time. This South Australian, family-owned business based in Edwardstown has been providing us with sweet treats and baked goods for over 80 years, which explains how they’ve gotten so damn good at it!
After switching hands a couple of times between close family and friends, Kytons is now owned by husband and wife Darren and Sharon Sutton, and they’re bringing goodies that taste homemade to families who don’t have time for baking. “We always select premium ingredients and source from Australia as much as possible, knowing that you’d do the same if you were baking at home,” says Darren.
Photo: Wayne Pearson.
Fluffy traditional, raspberry or coffee cakes wrapped in chocolate and coconut — Kytons lamingtons are truly something special and they’re stocked year-round in your local Kytons stockist’s fridge section. Tantalise your tastebuds with their brand new Native Lamingtons — a collaboration between Kytons and Edible Reconciliation, including flavours like Wattleseed & Chocolate and Lemon Myrtle & Coconut.
And, of course, as we draw closer to the most magical time of the year, keep your eyes peeled for their traditional Christmas puddings and mince pies. “Kytons takes great care to bake products that delight and celebrate the special moments in life!” smiles Sharon.
We sense a Kytons feast on the horizon! KYTONS LAMINGTONS ARE TRULY SOMETHING SPECIAL.
Straight from the heart It’s not just their products that give us the warm fuzzies but Kytons’ massive community involvement as well. You’ll often see their products at the heart of a fundraising drive raising money for causes that South Aussies really care about.
Good enough to eat Say goodbye to gingerbread houses — there’s a new and improved kid on the block. Santa’s Chocolate Chip House Kits are a delicious way for the whole fam to get into the festive spirit. Build your house from the ground up with chocolate chip cookie walls and glue it all together with icing. The cherry on the top isn’t a cherry at all but colourful chocolate pieces instead. Keep an eye out for these DIY kits in your local Foodland & Kytons stockists.
@kytonsbakery kytonsbakery.com.au
FOOD: STELLA
WORDS Millie Looker PHOTOS Wayne Pearson
We’re suckers for sunsets and seaside views, especially when paired with an Italian feast!
There’s no doubt that Henley Square is one of the best places to be in the middle of a South Australian summer. But what’s on offer for the rest of the year? Well, for a start, there’s Stella.
Recently celebrating 25 years, this Italianinspired restaurant offers casual dining with a side of exceptional views across one of our prettiest beaches, all year round. Whether you’re dining indoors looking out over the ocean or sitting in the square soaking up the fresh sea breeze, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, invigorated and full of delicious food.
Annie Jiang took over Stella in 2015 and gave it a facelift in three short weeks before reopening in winter. Along with General Manager Fillippo Ludovici, she’s reinvented Stella as a restaurant that’s about more than just a quick pizza to go. With sunshiney yellow touches everywhere, this bright and airy space is welcoming for all.
You can make a pit stop at Stella any time of the day and be wowed by their menu, which is bursting with authentic Italian flavours that are perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Breakfast is served until 11.30am and it’s all about your favourites — the pancakes, smashed avo and brekky burger spring to mind. If you’re on the fly, drop in for a quick pick-me-up — the coffee gets plenty of compliments and the fresh juices will pop some pep in your step.
When it comes to lunch and dinner, pizzas are the lifeblood of this well-known establishment and have always been a draw card for locals and day visitors alike. They keep it simple with fresh flavours, and it just feels right to be sitting by the sea eating a prawn pizza, don’t you think? But if pizza isn’t your jam, dive head first into a creamy risotto or a saucy pasta instead.
FUNCTIONS With views for days and plenty of space, it’s no surprise that Stella is a popular spot for a soiree! If you’ve got a wedding, christening or work function on the calendar, get in touch with the team to have a look through the space. Offering both sit down and cocktail options, the perfect party at Stella is just waiting for you. YOU’LL LEAVE FEELING REFRESHED, INVIGORATED AND FULL OF DELICIOUS FOOD.
@stellarestaurant_henley stellarestaurant.com.au
