Life's Little Luxuries by The Adviser

A guide to many

wonderful luxuries in the Goulburn Valley

Edition 2 | October 2017

Index

Everybody deserves a

little luxury A Little luxury can be found in many places and be it large or small, everyone deserves a little luxury in their lives.

elcome to The Adviser’s special publication… Life’s Little Luxuries. To whet your appetite, here’s what’s included in this edition of Life’s Little Luxuries: Beauty, lingerie, fashion and accessories, to the latest in whitegoods, flooring and décor for your home, fine kitchens, homewares, even a dream holiday, home security and fine wine. They’re all right here in Life’s Little Luxuries published by locals - The Adviser team - for locals. Check out the 31 product pointers throughout the magazine for great luxury gift ideas, some extra big and some small.

PUBLISHER:

The Adviser PRODUCTION:

Mathieu Ryan, Sandra Saenz, Joshua Di Girolamo, Stephanie Boyle. EDITORIAL:

David Lee, Nicholise Garner, Nicole Zurcas. PHOTOGRAPHY:

Alicia Niglia. ADVERTISING:

Melanie Spencer. Behind the cover: The latest edition of Life’s Little Luxuries is all about bringing to light the many different elements of luxury and how a little luxury can mean something different to each person. The cover depicts two people taking some time out and relaxing, which some find precious and a luxurious pastime.

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CONTACT:

(03) 5832 8900 www.sheppadviser.com.au

Living a luxurious lifestyle By David Lee

Living a luxurious lifestyle can mean many different things to a variety of people. Sometimes it depends on where you live. Sometimes it depends on your perspective on life. Personally, I find a relaxing lifestyle to be luxurious and there are some simple ways to achieve this.

Slim down your schedule Take one thing off your schedule this month that you don’t really want to do and replace it with something that brings you joy. Have a spa day, do something you’ve always wanted to do but didn’t have time for. Do anything that makes you happy or makes you feel indulgent, loved and luxurious.

Go tech-free for a day Each month commit to at least one day spent away from your electronic devices. Give yourself the time and space to clear your mind and live in the moment. If you have trouble staying away from them, schedule your day out of the house to reduce temptation.

Buy something you love… There doesn’t have to be a real reason for this. Do it just because! If it is something that is out

new thing to try before the end of the year. Sign up for a class, buy the book or materials you need for a new project, join a group that already does this skill and just go for it!

Take regular time-outs Take time to just do nothing. This may seem a little strange to do, especially those who live an overwhelming and over stimulated life but sitting back and doing nothing adds to quality of life.

of your current budget, start saving for it; put a little something away as often as you can, even if it’s just a couple of dollars.

Focus on healthy living A healthy lifestyle is a luxurious lifestyle. Living a healthy, toxic free life is a simple but often ignored step to increase the luxury in your life. When you fill your life with healthy food, positive habits and a toxic free home your life will quickly change for the better. You feel more confident and energised, less stressed and breathe in a cleaner environment.

Try something new or learn a new skill There is often not a great deal of time in the day to discover or add to your passions. If there is something you’ve always wanted to do or try, now is the time to stop waiting and start doing! Pick one

Your thoughts Life’s Little Luxuries took a walk around the city to find out what luxury means to others and what is something they find luxurious.

What does luxury mean to you and what is something you think is luxurious?

Dorothy Clement, Tatura

Darcy Curtis, Shepparton

James Penman, Melbourne

At this stage of my life I don’t need much, so spending quality time with my family is more luxurious to me than any physical item.

Anything food related. My favourite thing is going out for brunch and ordering smashed avocado.

I enjoy buying unnecessary expensive shoes. I actually own about six pairs of sneakers.

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If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? Anyone who’s ever travelled knows how enriching it can be, and thus the term the ‘travel bug.’ Once you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, it’s difficult to not want more of the same. International travel can be costly but it’s the kind of experience that is enjoyed over and over, widening one’s mind and offering new points of reference to be used over and over in a lifetime.

PERU; A SOUL EXPERIENCE… Helloworld travel consultant, Colleen O’Hara enjoying mother nature at her best in Peru.

t is important that travel consultants have a personal understanding of destinations they recommend to clients and this is clearly one of the perks of the job. Colleen O’Hara and Rebecca Smith from Hello World talked to me about their absolute favourite travel experiences. Colleen travelled through South America into Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Brazil and Argentina. Of these travels, Colleen said, “Peru was amazing. The Inca villages built into the mountain side just held a magical feeling, it was a real soul experience. So much natural beauty, it was a mind-blowing

experience. The Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil were just incredible, the immensity of the water, it is something that can’t be described. This whole experience was a real treat for the heart and soul, a very spiritual experience that I’ll never forget.” Rebecca’s favourite travel experience was in Canada. Rebecca said, “I’ve worked in the travel industry for 22 years having visited over 30 countries and this Canada completed my bucket list. We stayed at the Fairmont in Lake Louise which is one of the most luxurious places I’ve ever experienced. Lake Louise is a beautiful old place. We were surrounded by now capped mountains. We took a helicopter ride over the Rockies and I got to experience the Rocky Mountaineer, gold class rail from Banff to Vancouver. This train was like nothing I’ve ever even imagined, leather heated recliner seats, an endless supply of delicious food and cocktails, the carriages were designed to allow an uninterrupted view of the incredible scenery, it was just glorious and definitely a luxury I’d be keen to experience again.”

EXPERIENCE THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER… Gold class travel with the best food, drink, views and comfort. Photos Supplied.

Find your own luxury By Nicole Zurcas

To many, the thought of luxury is a rarity and out of reach from our regular lives. Since we all live different lives you’ll find there are many interpretations of luxury.

ost assume it needs a high dollar figure, however it’s not so much the ‘what’ which determines the value but more the feeling we get when treating ourselves to luxury. That reward at the end of a long feat, a moment of sudden realisation, the rise of confidence, or a sense of accomplishment and the energy of pure happiness, are just some of the things we feel when dipping into the element of luxury.

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From a high-end brand wrapped around our wrists that makes us feel powerful, or being at the step of unbelievable natural wonder that makes you appreciate the smaller things, to splurging at the finest eateries to experience a feeling like no other or even just taking the time out to be with loved ones; all of this can make us feel rich and full of life. You may not have found your luxury yet bet when you do, you’re not going to want it to go away.

Maggie Beer’s

slow-braised beef cheeks in Barossa Shiraz with soft polenta

Serves 8 INGREDIENTS • 2.0kg beef cheeks • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil plus extra for drizzling • 6 cloves garlic roughly chopped • 1 orange rind peeled in strips • 10 bay leaves • 3 sprigs rosemary • 2 star star anise • 2tsp juniper berry crushed • 1/2 cup Vino Cotto • 2 cups good red wine eg Barossa Shiraz

• 2 large onions roughly chopped • 2 celery stalks roughly chopped • To taste sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 cups beef stock SOFT POLENTA • 1.0L beef stock • 3/4 cup fine polenta (cornmeal) • 1/2 cup cream • 100g unsalted butter

METHOD: The day before cooking, place the beef cheeks into a large mixing bowl or tray and drizzle over ¼ cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and marinade with garlic cloves, orange rind and all the spices and herbs. Place in the fridge overnight or up to four hours. Preheat the oven to 120ºC. Remove the beef cheeks from the fridge and season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Remove the beef cheeks from the marinade and place into a large non-stick frying pan over a medium high heat. Brown on each side for approximately three minutes, then place in a heavy-based casserole dish. Note: it is best to do the cheeks in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan Deglaze the frying pan with Vino Cotto and red wine, then reduce the liquid by half and add to the casserole dish with the beef cheeks.

Wipe the frying pan clean and add the remaining Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Add the onions and celery to the pan and cook for 5 minutes to brown. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper and transfer to the casserole dish. Add the beef stock to the casserole dish, cover and into the preheated oven. Turn the beef cheeks after two hours, then check after a further two hours to see if the cheeks are tender by using a fork to pull away the meat. After four hours the meat should be quite soft and falling apart, if not, continue to cook for another hour. The cooking time will depend on the size of the cheeks and the breed of cattle. Once tender, remove from the oven and allow to sit for 20 minutes to cool slightly. Remove the beef cheeks for the cooking liquid, trim away any gristle then set aside and keep warm. Pour the cooking liquid into a large jug and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Skim the fat which will separate from the stock liquid once cooled. Pour the stock into a medium saucepan and place over a high heat for approximately 10 minutes to reduce the stock by half, then set aside to use as the sauce. To make the soft polenta, place the beef stock into a medium saucepan over a high heat. Bring to the boil, then slowly pour in the polenta and stir until the mixture thickens, this will take approximately three minutes. Turn the heat down to low and continue to cook for five minutes, then stir through the cream and butter and season to taste. To serve, evenly divide the polenta between 8 serving plates, place a beef cheek on top and drizzle over the reduced sauce. Life’s Little Luxuries - A guide to many wonderful luxuries in the Goulburn Valley - October, 2017 | 5

I’d love a relaxing foot rub By Nicholise Garner

If I worked in a big home appliance store I can bet you I’d have earmarked my favourite items and have a list of ‘must haves’ as long as my arm. There are just so many appliances designed now to make life so much easier than back in my parent’s day. From automated coffee machines to smart TVs and robotic vacuum cleaners, what ever you need, it’s been designed and not only to suit a function but designed with style as well.

enna Williams is a sales assistant at Harvey Norman Electrical. I asked her, if she could choose any luxury item in the store, what would it be? Jenna thought for just a moment before answering, “The Homedics Foot Massager is what I’d like, it’s incredible. I’m constantly on my feet during the days and they’re killing me by the time I get home. The thought of coming home after a long day at work and having my feet and legs massaged while I sip on some wine or read a book, that’s my idea of luxury.” Jenna loves the foot massager but doesn’t love

having her photo taken, so she convinced fellow sales assistant, Ben Crowe to give it a try. Ben was a good sport and let me get his photograph for the article but I’m pretty sure that after giving it a try, he can see the benefits of the foot massager too. Thanks Ben.

TAKE A SEAT AND ENJOY A GENTLE FOOT AND LEG RUB… Harvey Norman sales assistant, Ben Crowe trying out the luxurious Homedics Foot Massager. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

Luxury comes down to

quality and comfort LUXURY THAT LASTS… O’dea’s Saddlery proprietor, Trevor O’dea says that luxury is all about the quality of a product, like R.M. Williams. Photo: David Lee.

Clothing, footwear and accessories are known to be a luxurious item to many, especially when it is of high quality, comfortable and specially handmade to ensure it lasts.

esigner brand names are often synonymous with the word luxury, any many would argue about which is the most lavish and top end product. When sitting down with O’dea’s Saddlery proprietor, Trevor O’dea it was clear to see that he finds this particular brand a luxury item, as he in fact owns many items in the R.M. Williams range. “When I think of luxury I think of good quality clothing, footwear and accessories; products that last and R.M. Williams ticks those boxes. “From their handmade boots to belts, jeans, trousers and shirts they are a standout brand.

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“R.M. Williams was established in 1932, so they have the backing and know-how to produce such a fine, superior product. “What’s more important is that they are still made in Australia, which you don’t see much of anymore. “The R.M. Williams brand may seem expensive to some but for the quality you get and the fact that they last, I wouldn’t say they are expensive…I would say they are a more cost effective brand. “For some, there is the ‘status symbol’ attached to owning R.M. Williams but really I think it comes down to the quality.”

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The 4 x 30 ad SA53624 for JOE PAUL MENSWEAR named "SA53624" is missing or incomplete.

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The 4 x 30 ad SA54010 for JOE PAUL MENSWEAR named "SA54010" is missing or incomplete.

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Latest trends for your home Spending time with family and friends in the comfort of your home is certainly something many find as a luxurious pastime, but doing it in a kitchen that reflects the latest trends makes it that little bit more enjoyable.

awn Rayner from Liberty Kitchens spoke with Life’s Little Luxuries about some of the latest and upcoming trends for the home and kitchen. “Cabinets for the home have seen an evolution over the last 12 months with a move towards a complete package of matching cabinetry throughout the home. Where the open-plan kitchen finishes are tastefully integrated with custom made entertainment furniture for the living area,” Dawn said. “Walk-in pantries that complement the kitchen and contain benches to act as really work areas not just store rooms. Walk-in wardrobes that continue the theme of the ensuite with cabinetry designed around the homeowner. “Cabinet finishes have seen a layering of colour and mixing of

LUXURIOUS LIVING… Installing the latest and greatest features in your home can really make your home more luxurious. Photo: Supplied.

textures for a while now. Black, however, is the new white. Colour is making a shift to dark charcoal grey and black with features in timber adding warmth. A shift is occurring to smooth matt finishes as gloss makes its way out. “Technology has also given us finishes that will minimise fingerprints that may mare the look of the finished product. Cabinet lighting too has evolved as LEDs give us more choices including thin strips of lighting that is efficient but not bulky. “There is room to experiment with real natural timbers or timber grained products with various textures. Digital imaging and the advent

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of realistic textural graining has led to products that feel and look like the real thing but do not fade over time. “Accessories are seeing the move from nickel and stainless steel to warm colours of rose gold and brass. Handles are following this trend with brushed rose gold, brushed gold and copper toning joining with black in both antique and modern handle options. Streamline cabinets with access without handles are also trending with various cost options available. “It is an exciting time where the homeowner has the scope to make an impact,” Dawn said.

GETTING THE BEST RESULTS… Tatura Pharmacy assistant, Jo Clarke talks about her favourite make-up product. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Making people feel beautiful

Some ladies spend a lot of time and money on their make-up and skin care, in fact, there are some who wouldn’t walk out the door without putting their ‘face’ on. For many women, just taking time out to beautify themselves, applying colours and shades to highlight their features, is, in of itself a real luxury.

ike so many little girls, I used to watch my mum apply her lipstick and looked forward to doing the same one day. My best friend at school used to have a make-up collection that I aspired to, in fact, she still does, meanwhile, my collection needs a thorough rehaul. One collection of really lovely, user friendly make-up would be my idea of a luxury. Jo Clarke from Tatura Pharmacy talked to me

about what she considers her favourite cosmetic product. Jo said, “The Napolean PERDIS brand is excellent but of all of their cosmetic products, Napolean’s Auto Pilot pre-foundation skin primer is my absolute favourite. If you’re going to go to the effort of doing beautiful make-up, this product will ensure you achieve incredible and long lasting results. Napolean is my little luxury.”

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A TASTE OF LUXURY… Australia’s top restaurants have been announced, with TripAdvisor revealing where you can get the most luxurious meals. Photo: Supplied.

Australia’s top restaurants revealed

ating at and finding a luxurious restaurant to eat at may seem like a difficult thing to do, but thanks to TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards, finding the best fine dining restaurants around the world is easy. This year’s awards recognise nearly 400 fine dining restaurants, including the Top 25 in the world, plus dedicated lists for Asia, Europe, India, Canada, Mexico, Australia, South America, South Pacific, the U.K. and the U.S. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews for restaurants around the world, gathered over a 12-month period.

Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants in Australia

Muse Restaurant – Pokolbin, New South Wales Opened in 2009 by husband-and-wife team, Troy and Megan Rhoades-Brown, this restaurant has set itself apart as the gastronomic delight set in the Hunter Valley. Their menu is centered on offering fresh local produce that is simple yet exciting. TripAdvisor reviewers love the restaurant for its open kitchen concept and highly recommend the coconut dessert, a strong finish to an exquisite dining experience.

Friends Restaurant – Perth, Australia Lauded as the benchmark for fine dining in Perth, Friends Restaurant prides itself for offering high quality dishes, along with an award-winning wine list – all served with warm hospitality and at a waterfront property overlooking the Swan River. TripAdvisor reviewers recommend going for the truffle degustation meal with matching wines which surpass expectations on all levels.

fermentAsian – Tanunda, South Australia Award-winning chef/owner, Tuoi Do opened the restaurant with the aim of serving delicious Southeast Asian menu inspired by her Vietnamese heritage. Using local produce, reviewers say the dishes are flavourful and beyond delicious. The TripAdvisor community also loves the chef ’s table menu featuring Hanoi spring rolls, grilled South Australian prawns and Barossa Hampshire pork belly.

Spirit House – Yandina, Queensland This restaurant doubles as a cooking school and serves up awardwinning contemporary Asian food in a magical property set in a tropical garden. Stand-out dishes amongst TripAdvisor reviewers include the coconut soup of smoked salmon that is divine and whole crispy fish that is truly worth savouring every morsel of.

Watergate Restaurant & Lounge Bar – Port Douglas, Australia Located in the heart of Port Douglas is this charming property that offers both indoor and outdoor dining. Executive chef Lee Neate uses the best local produce to whip up truly memorable Australian cuisine with a modern twist with the duck pancakes and cuttlefish entrée especially popular. Order your cocktails with the very knowledgeable bar staff who can make anything you ask for. Spice Bar – Mooloolaba, Queensland With delicious and beautifully presented Asian fusion dishes as its main draw, diners should not miss another Spice Bar highlight - its bar and dining area which feature spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. According to TripAdvisor reviewers, ordering the degustation menu is a must, with the scallops and braised duck named as favourites.

Nobu Japanese Restaurant – Burswood, Perth Chef Nobu Matsuhisa mixes traditional Japanese cuisine with a twist of South American flavours to create an out-of-this world unique dining experience for everyone. Ask the friendly service staff who will be more than happy to recommend dishes for you but diners can’t go wrong with the classic bento box featuring exquisitely presented prawn tempura, sashimi salad, chef ’s choice sushi and miso soup.

1889 Enoteca – Brisbane, Australia Set in the heart of Woolloongabba’s antique and café quarter is 1889 Enoteca which prides itself for serving some of Brisbane’s best Italian cuisine. The TripAdvisor community loves the restaurant for its excellent and not intrusive service and lovely ambience. A must-try as recommended by TripAdvisor reviewers is the ridiculously good gnocchi that melts in your mouth.

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The Stunned Mullet – Port Macquarie, New South Wales Located in the coastal town of Port Macquarie, The Stunned Mullet delivers a fabulously consistent Australian dining experience with exceptional locally-sourced food and wine. The TripAdvisor community raves about its Mandagery Creek venison that is plated beautifully and exquisite to the palette.

Maha – Melbourne, Australia Head chef and owner, Shane Delia leads a team in Maha that creates Middle Eastern cuisine with flavours that burst in your mouth. Recommended dishes by TripAdvisor reviewers include the 12hour roasted lamb shoulder that is tender and absolutely delicious, as well as chemen cured swordfish which often said to be the highlight of the meal.

Top 10 Travellers’ Choice Restaurants in the World The Black Swan at Oldstead – Oldstead, England Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – Great Milton, England Maison Lameloise – Chagny, France L’Auberge de l’Ill – Illhaeusern, France Martin Berasategui – Lasarte, Spain Daniel – New York City, America La Colombe – Constantia, South Africa David’s Kitchen – Chiang Mai, Thailand Maido – Lima, Peru El Celler de Can Roca – Girona, Spain

Finishing touches that delight By Nicholise Garner

Amidst the beautiful suits, quality shoes, hats and bow ties, I wondered what Joe Cáre and Paul Kapsalis from Joe Paul Menswear’s idea of luxury might be. I mean, I’d think that anyone who is dressing to look their best is likely to feel that the final result offers the most satisfaction but Paul surprised me with his response.

“

To be honest, I just love the luxury of quality socks and underwear” he said. I have to admit, I could certainly relate to that with my love of my bamboo socks. He added that placing a finishing touch to his

WHAT’S YOUR IDEA OF LUXURY?… From left, Joe Paul Menswear owners, Joe Cáre and Paul Kapsalis talk about their idea of the finer pleasures in life. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

suit, along the lines of a pin or hanky is really satisfying also. Joe felt that for him, the best finishing touch too was a spray of his favourite fragrance. Ultimately, the word luxury doesn’t have to describe something expensive or outside of the average person’s reach, but can be the simple

pleasures derived from the smallest of things. Speak to the guys from Joe Paul Menswear to treat yourself to some menswear that will make you look and feel fantastic.

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ife’s Little Luxuries has gathered together 31 of some of the luxurious products available from business across the region. From beauty, lingerie, fashion and accessories, to the latest in whitegoods, flooring and décor for your home, fine kitchens, homewares, even a dream holiday, home security and fine wine, you will find it in the following pages.

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A taste of luxury

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