Style Magazine Toowoomba January 2020 by News Corp Custom Publishing

TOOWOOMBA JANUARY 2020

m a g a z i n e

Summer of 2020 It’s the roaring ‘ 20 s again in the

new year new normal TOOWOOMBER TEEN LOST HIS LEG BUT HE NEVER LOST HOPE

surprise wedding THE WEDDING EVERYONE THOUGHT WAS THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY

FA S H I O N

SHOPPING

H E A LT H

BEAUTY

MOTORING

T R AV E L

FOOD

EVENTS

ARTS

style | contents

NOTE ot only is it a new decade, but we’re also back to the ‘roaring ‘20s’ — and what better way to celebrate with a retro-inspired cover for January’s Style magazine? Obviously it’s not truly 1920s-inspired, but we love the Marilyn Monroe-esque pose fabulous model Alana Wilkie has outside the art-deco-inspired Empire Theatre. This edition is all about being inspired — from the determined young man who didn’t let losing a leg stop him from reaching for his dreams (p6) to finding out how to best dress for your pear-shaped body (p12), to getting creative with artist Cindy MacDonald (p43). We also had a chat to newlyweds Emma-Lee and Bradley Hayward, who turned their engagement party into a wedding in only two months — if that isn’t inspiring, we don’t know what is. With the arrival of January comes outdoor entertaining, whether for Australia Day or just because, so we’ve got some handy tips for keeping everyone as cool and sun-safe as possible while having fun outdoors (p37). We’ve also got some useful 2020 trend predictions to keep you up-to-date with fashion (p14) and decorating your home (p40-41). As is typical for this month — ‘new year, new you’ — Style magazine has also had a few changes. We said goodbye to the incredible Leandri Van Staden, who is off on a new adventure, and we’re excited to introduce you to our new writer, Katherine Sampson. Katherine is passionate about the magazine and discovering incredible stories, and the entire team is excited to discover what this new year and new decade will bring. Our best, The Style team

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INSIDE STYLE 06 At only 18 years, this teen’s life was ripped apart 08 A country wedding with the element of surprise 12 Discover how to dress your pear body shape 20 Get an amazing tan with this helpful guide 23 On the fringe: achieve the best bangs for your face 25 Meet boxing champion, Anna Christadoulou 31 Introducing this year’s Women of Strength speaker 32 Find the community’s opinion on travel with kids

36 Interior decorating, Scandinavian style 40 Discover 2020’s interior trends for your home 43 Meet the artist behind some incredible portraits 44 To leather or not to leather? Decide for your car 46 Behind the scenes with local band Shark Drive 48 Travel to France’s version of beautiful Venice 51 Select the ideal bouquet for your wedding 56 Find a familiar face in January’s Style Scene

contents | style

08 40

m a g a z i n e

TOOWOOMBA JANUARY 2020

COVER EXPLAINED

Summer of 2020 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the roaring 20 s again in the

new year new normal TOOWOOMBER TEEN LOST HIS LEG BUT HE NEVER LOST HOPE

surprise wedding THE WEDDING EVERYONE THOUGHT WAS THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY

FASHION

SHOPPING

H E A LT H

BEAUTY

MOTORING

T R AV E L

FOOD

EVENTS

ARTS

The gorgeous Alana Wilkie flaunts her dress, Marilyn Monroe-style, outside the Empire Theatre. Photographed by Mark Greenmantle.

CONTACT THE STYLE TEAM JOURNALISTS Darren Burton, Jessica Kramer, Katherine Sampson ADVERTISING MANAGER Marg Alexander 4690 9422 SALES SUPPORT CO-ORDINATOR Email salessupport@thechronicle.com.au INQUIRIES Phone 4690 9319 Email darren.burton@thechronicle.com.au Mail PO Box 40, Toowoomba QLD 4350. Street 109 Neil St, Toowoomba.

Style magazine is published by News Regional Media. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to Style magazine undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe any copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title, breach of confidence, does not contain anything obscene or indecent, or does not infringe the trade practices act or other laws, regulation or statutes. Further to the abovementioned these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements.

style | feature

BY KATHERINE SAMPSON

orking out in the small town of Tara one morning, Ned Desbrow was pulling tree trunks from scrub after they’d been cut down. Up on the pivot plate of a skidder (a machine used for pulling up cut trees) Ned was trying to direct the cable so it wouldn’t ‘catch.’ His left leg got snagged on the wire and it went downhill from there. “It got half way down my left leg and felt that it had serious injuries,” Ned says. “I then thought if I release the line it will set me free, but it just kept on pulling.” An emergency LifeFlight team was called out and the critical care doctors from the aeromedical team were forced to perform the amputation on-site. It was a day Ned would never forget. “What I remember most was calling my mother Melita; also my brother Ben. “I remember life flashing before my eyes, I remember not even thinking it was a real situation and lastly I remember saying I wasn’t going to die that day and I stuck to it and fought.” Ned is now left with roughly 100 millimetres of bone and muscle in his left leg and he questioned whether he could ever do the things he loved again. “Was I ever going to be able to stand or walk again?” Ned asked himself. “To be honest I haven’t missed anything really,” he says. “I made a promise to myself early in that I wouldn’t let it change my life. “I have to learn things I wish I never had to learn, but in a way the accident showed me just how precious being alive is.” Before the accident, Ned says he was going through some personal issues. 6 | January 2020

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feature | style

No hope was lost,

just a leg

NED DESBROW WAS 18-YEARS-OLD WHEN HIS LIFE GOT LITERALLY RIPPED APART, BUT IT HASN’T SLOWED HIM DOWN IN THE SLIGHTEST “While I was stuck (in the machine), a lot of my life and important people flashed before my eyes,” Ned says. “Losing a limb has inspired me a great deal, I’ve always heard ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,’ and that’s exactly right. “Yeah, I have my bad days and good but for the most part I’m really excited for the future.” Ned loves being outdoors, skateboarding and motorbike riding, and the fear of never being able to enjoy these pastimes once more has not been much of an issue as he finds himself around both most days. “Well, I can’t go out and ride like I used to, but I am surely not staying off the both of them,” Ned says. He’s even relearned how to do both again. “I’ve managed to learn to ‘ollie’ on a skateboard and ride a motorbike. “I grew up with both cultures around and you learn to love them. “It’s not just a hobby, it’s kind of something you really pay attention to and, for me, both of the sports inspire me, so I can’t let go,” he said. “Skateboarding has always been very close to me growing up and moto (-bike riding), so I’d really like to be up there in both [career] industries.” Ironically, there is no hurdle that Ned hasn’t overcome, even starting the clothing line FunkyG’s. “FunkyG’s is a brand that has been in my head for a long time.

“With some help I have been able to come out with some pretty cool designs. “The point of Funky G’s is that it’s for the people, by the people and I’m a big believer in looking good and feeling good, so just trying to create my mark I want to leave and be remembered by,” Ned says.

‘‘

Was I ever going to be able to stand or walk again?” NED DESBROW

Although it’s still early days, Ned knows exactly where he wants to take FunkyG’s — and that’s to the top and with the best. “Some people say that it’s not gonna happen but it’s not about those people, it’s about the ones that do. “I won’t stop at anything!” Ned continues to have phantom pain from time to time and recently received his first trial prosthetic leg and is so far practising the general standing and weight movement until his new one arrives. “It is a weird aspect to put all of your weight and actually

rely on that limb again, and I’m bony so it can get really uncomfortable.” He wouldn’t wish this accident upon anyone, although Ned says he found his true friends during this time. “It opens your eyes a lot and yeah it’s sad to think you’d care for others if they were here, but they don’t care back - but that’s the way it is and again you can’t change it.” Drive and determination are two major positives which Ned has noticed have come since the accident, he refers to himself as neither an amputee or disabled – instead he prefers the term ‘on the way to normal.’ “I’ve got to say a big thankyou to my mum, my dad, my big brother Ben — just my whole family and to the friends that came when I was at the lowest moments of my life,” Ned says. “Do what you’re good at and do what you love with the people you love, and you’ll never ever run into a reason to stop, happiness is important.”

style | feature

A SIMPLE

WEDDING SURPRISE

CREATING A WEDDING FROM THEIR ENGAGEMENT PARTY IN BARELY TWO MONTHS, THIS COUPLE ASTONISHED THEIR GUESTS BY KATHERINE SAMPSON

mma-Lee Smith and Bradley Hayward didn’t see eye to eye when they first met. Emma-Lee thought Brad was full of himself, a little gross and, in her words, “someone kill me if I ever decide being friends with him is a swell idea.” Brad thought much the same of Emma-Lee and says his first impression of her was “snobby, stuck-up and sour”. It was a few years and a couple of failed relationships since their first meeting that the pair began to view each other in a different light. What began as a friendship grew and Emma-Lee and Bradley found themselves in a relationship. It wasn’t until three years into their relationship that Bradley proposed. Although wanting to go someplace special to pop the question, the day Bradley collected the ring he got all 8 | January 2020

too excited. “I picked up the ring and wanted to give it to her straight away,” Bradley says. “That night she was at work, I cooked her a big bowl of spaghetti-bog, because it was the food we had on our first date together. “When she got home from work, I had dinner ready, candles lit and when she came in the door, I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me.” Initially Emma-Lee thought Bradley had done something silly, even asking if he’d killed their dog Spud. “I’d come home from work and was covered in deep fryer oil and chicken grease. “Brad had cooked dinner, emptied the rubbish, done the washing up; all the jobs I would normally have to nag about,” Emma-Lee laughs. “He called me into the lounge room

from the kitchen, where he was knelt down on one knee and he asked me to marry him. “He didn’t open the box while he asked the question because he didn’t want me to see the ring until I said yes; smart man.” When it came to organise the wedding, the duo was not prepared for the quote they received from the wedding venue. With this information they decided to turn their engagement party into a wedding, giving them only two months to plan, prep and pull it off. Emma-Lee prepared everything and each night turned into a DIY session. “I made the bouquets for myself and my two bridesmaids, as well as the buttonhole for Brad. “I hand-wrote all of the place cards, there was almost nothing that we www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

feature | style

‘‘

We were just in such a love bubble, that everyone and everything else kind of faded out.”

outsourced for our wedding; it was all made by me,” Emma-Lee says. The surprise wedding went off almost without a hitch: the couple had their wedding photos taken before the ceremony to make the most of their time. After the photos, Bradley went to greet an array of confused guests while Emma-Lee, her mother and aunt plucked grass seeds out of the seven layers of tulle in her wedding dress. Distracted, they were pushed for time and Emma-Lee ended up wearing boots for the ceremony. “I wasn’t complaining though — I was much happier in boots than I would have been in heels,” laughs Emma-Lee. The wedding was hosted in a paddock and the front lawn of Emma-Lee’s parents’ farm in Nobby. www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

The wedding was country-themed, rustic and simple; even the bar was a few haybales with a slab of wood on top and a few old carriage wheels leaned up against it. At the reception, the tables had gum branches and leaves running down the middle and white metal jugs in the centre hosting pink peonies. As for gifts for the guests, the couple decided to give jars of honey. “I ordered the jars and honey sticks on eBay, and the stickers on Vistaprint,” Emma-Lee explains. “My dad has bees, so we filled the jars with homemade honey and my brother Hayden tied all of the sticks to

EMMA-LEE AND BRADLEY HAYWARD

the jars with twine.” The highlight of the wedding was the reception, and the couple told us they found it a bit hard to remember what happened because it went so fast. “It was the first time in our lives where we truly can’t remember what happened and not because we’d had too much to drink,” the couple says. “We were just in such a love bubble, that everyone and everything else kind of faded out.” January 2020 | 9

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style | fashion

Dress to impress:

the Pear

WHETHER YOU CALL THIS BODY SHAPE THE PEAR OR THE TRIANGLE, IT’S EASY AND FUN TO DRESS

THIS MONTH: THE PEAR

launt those hips, girl! The Pear or Triangle — depending who you talk to — is defined by being wider at the hips than at the bust. You might also be wider at the waist than the bust, and have narrow shoulders as well as a full bottom. It’s hard not to be envious of the Pear’s hips, and it’s a super fun shape to dress.

If you’re flauting your hips and bottom, jeans are your best friend as they will shape and lift while still being flattering to your curves — particularly bootcut or flare styles which will also elongate your legs. Jackets that stop just before the waist are another way to draw attention to your hips, with the added bonus of accentuating the waist too. Because your shoulders and bust are narrow, you’ll want to balance your outfit.

Wear plunging v-necks and cowl-necks, as well as flowing bell sleeves. Accenuate your narrow waist with fitted tops, and go wild with patterns and bold colours. Because of the smaller top-half of your body, you can have a blast with fun tops and find the majority are gloriously flattering — it’s almost more a question of what don’t you suit, rather than what you do. Just remember that if you’re going

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fashion | style

strong patterns and colours on the top, pick something more muted or plain for the bottom (and vice versa). If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a dress kind of gal, the guidelines are similar to those for shirts: dropped necklines, dramatic sleeves. Open-backed styles are also flattering, drawing attention to your shoulders and waist. In addition, a classic belt will draw eyes to your waist and make it appear narrower, while a hemline

sitting just below the knee can make you appear taller. Possibly one of the most exciting things about rocking a pear shape is the accessories you can wear. Chunky, bold and fun necklaces are your thing, and same for earrings. A wide-brimmed hat is also your best friend, and possibly suited to your body shape alone â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so take advantage. NEXT MONTH: THE HOURGLASS

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style | fashion

FASHION IN THE ROARING TWENTIES (AGAIN)

new decade begins, divided into two camps TOninheonethe fashion world. side, we have what Harpers Bazaar has

coined the ‘Digital Brights’ — vibrant mint, shades of colourful purple, rich cerulean blue. On the other we have ‘Enhanced Neutrals’ with more options: sage green, brown, earthy red, grey, turmeric yellow, white, and black. Regardless of which colour trend you choose to go with, colour-blocking is still in full swing as a trend. Even handbags and shoes are expected to be the same colour as your main outfit this year. Another trend the fashion houses have appeared to agree on, is the humble anklet. Yes, this rage from the 1990s is back. From fine gold chains that only just add a glimmer to your outfit, to the ‘90s traditional cord and seashell look, there’s an anklet to suit everyone. Some clever designers are even incorporating this fun accessory into strappy heels and chunky sandals, so you don’t even need to worry about picking out your jewellery. Finally, one of the biggest trends expected in fashion this year, nay, decade even, is sustainable clothing and accessories. This encompasses everything from outfits manufactured from old clothing and recycled plastics, to the classic DIY op-shop find. 14 | January 2020

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HOW MUCH PROTEIN IS TOO MUCH? BY GINA HORN - DIETITIAN

rotein is an essential macronutrient required by the human body for growth and maintenance. Foods rich in animal protein include meat, fish, dairy products and eggs, while plant foods high in protein are mainly legumes, nuts and grains. The Australian recommended daily allowance, or RDA, for adults is 0.75-0.85g/kg/day. For a 70kg woman, this would calculate to around 53g protein per day. High-protein diets, defined as an intake above the current RDA, are promoted intensively by the nutritional supplement industry and endorsed by countless celebrities, for muscle development and body fat loss. However, numerous adverse effects

have been identified with excessive protein consumption, including bone disorders, renal issues including kidney disease and kidney stones, increased cancer risk, liver function disorders, and higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Muscle protein synthesis has also been shown to be stimulated maximally at 20-30g, meaning if you consume more than this in one sitting, or in one meal, it won’t benefit muscle development. So, all those expensive protein shakes may not be worth downing multiple times a day, when you could get the same amount of protein from

a cup of milk or a few eggs. Good quality protein sources include (one serve): ■ 150g raw weight beef, chicken, or fish ■ 100g tofu ■ 95g can tuna ■ 1 cup milk ■ Tub yoghurt ■ 2 eggs ■ 30g nuts Currently, there is no scientifically reasonable evidence to recommend consuming protein above the current RDA. Include 20-30g of both animal and plant protein, if you consume animal products, at each meal every day for optimal benefits.

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January 2020 | 19

style | beauty

GETTING THE PERFECT TAN by beauty specialist Tennielle Copson

PREPPING YOUR SKIN

Keep your skin free of lotion and moisturisers; this ensures the tanning treatment can penetrate the skin and create a nice, even colouring all over. Also, remember to wax or shave at least 24 hours prior to tanning. Shaving in a hot shower or bath opens your pores, and the tan will pool into them, eventually drying into unsightly tiny dots. For a smoother finish run a cold pack over your legs to seal your pores.

SET-UP

Apply your self-tanning product within a well-ventilated bathroom. If you are concerned about staining your bathroom, you can protect the surfaces with an old sheet or plastic bags.

APPLICATION

Make sure to use a tanning mitt to avoid the tell-tale orange hands, then place a small amount of tanning lotion on the mitt and work the product onto your skin in circular, repetitive motions, going over the same patch of skin a couple of times. Start at your ankles and work your way upwards towards your torso, then complete your torso and arms. Make sure your strokes are even; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cover one patch of skin more than others.

BLENDING

Mix the tanning lotion with a moisturising lotion and blend in the areas on your ankles, the tops of your feet, and your wrists, elbows and knees to create a more natural-looking tan. As these areas are naturally lighter than the rest of the body, they tend to absorb fake tan easier.

FACE AND NECK

Sparingly apply the tanner to your cheeks, chin and the bridge of your nose. Using steady circular motions, smooth the tanning lotion outward to cover the rest of your face, ears, neck and back of your neck. Tip: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t apply too much tanning lotion on your upper lip, as this spot absorbs more lotion than other areas on the face.

GETTING DRESSED

Avoid contact with anything for 15 minutes, then dress in loose fitting, dark clothing and thongs or slides, as tight clothing might rub the tan off. Avoid contact with water or strenuous activity that will cause you to sweat and wipe off the tanning lotion. Wait seven to eight hours before entering the shower and washing off excess tanning lotion.

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promotion | style

WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY

ARE YOU READY FOR A HEALTHIER YOU?

besity is emerging as a health epidemic around the world. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity is rapidly spreading across all regions and demographic groups. In fact, 64.3 per cent of Queenslanders are overweight or obese and 60.5 per cent of the Toowoomba region are in the ‘overweight or obese’ category. Obesity is linked to everything from coronary heart disease, fertility problems, diabetes, joint problems and cancer; and is one of the most significant healthcare issues facing our nation today. Dieting, exercise, and medication have long been regarded as the conventional methods to achieve weight loss.

Sometimes, these efforts are successful in the short term. However, for some people the results rarely last. For many, this can translate into what's called the "yo-yo syndrome," where patients continually gain and lose weight with the possibility of serious psychological and health consequences. Weight-loss surgery is now recognised as a safe treatment option that offers patients a better quality of life, improvement or cure from comorbidities and a longer life expectancy and is more successful than dieting in the long-term. Sleeve gastrectomy is the most common operation performed for obesity in Australia. Patients can expect to lose about

70 per cent of excess weight (weight above normal range) in the first year and 60 per cent after five years. Patients who have had the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (considered the "Gold Standard" in weight-loss surgery) may lose 77 per cent excess weight after one year and 69 per cent after five years. General Surgeon, Dr Evan Willingham has a strong interest in bariatric surgery and is an advocate for the transformative effect weight-loss surgery can have on his patients’ lives. Dr Willingham holds patient information evenings so, for more information or to make a referral, please contact Downs Specialist Centre, 146 Mackenzie Street on 07 4580 0828.

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style | promotion

NEW SURGICAL EQUIPMENT IMPROVES HEALTH OUTCOMES atients in the Toowoomba and P Darling Downs region suffering from a range of diseases and

illnesses have embraced robotic assisted surgery at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital since its launch in 2014. Now the hospital has gone a step further, upgrading their robot to the latest available model on the market, investing $2.7million in the new cutting-edge technology. The advanced surgical equipment is used for a wide variety of conditions including gynaecological problems. Most recently, surgeons performed an Australian-first procedure — using the robot to help mums who have previously experienced miscarriages or premature births, carry their babies to full-term. St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital was also the first hospital in regional

Australia to perform robotic-assisted surgery to treat prostate cancer, and the first in the world to perform a voicebox procedure for a throat cancer patient. Robotic surgery is minimally invasive and involves the use of a computer to control surgical instruments attached to robotic arms. In the operating theatre, the surgeon uses controls to move a camera and surgical instruments which enable precise and delicate procedures with only small incisions. Robotically-assisted technology offers many advantages, as it provides surgeons with 3D vision in real time, wristed instruments that improve dexterity and tremor cancelling software that enables surgical precision. Patient recovery following surgery is also improved, including less pain,

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Dr Anthony Cerqui (left) and Dr Brendan Miller (right), obstetrician and gynaecologists at St Andrew's Hospital with the robotic surgical system used for the Australian-first gynaecology surgical procedure. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

blood loss and scarring with a shorter hospital stay and faster return to normal activities. St Andrew’s Robotic Surgeons have been specially trained in the United States and Asia to enable them to undertake these advanced surgical cases. This recent significant investment in robotic surgery has, and continues to position St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital at the forefront of technology in line with any metropolitan hospital.

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health and beauty | style

ON THE FRINGE angs are super cute and chic, but B there are some things to keep in mind, as News Corp writer Remy Rippon discovered.

GO SHORT OR GO HOME

Ultra-short fringes (sitting at least an inch above the brows) are this season’s beauty standout. A word of caution before proceeding: trim every three weeks to keep the style more cool, less kid-like.

START SMALL

Stay on the fringe of the trend, with a style that hovers between side-sweep and full-blown bangs. Leave it lengthy enough to just dust your lashes; it’s noncommittal as the extra length will ensure it’s long enough to pull back into a pony, or side-sweep within a few weeks.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH DRY SHAMPOO

Let’s first dispel a universal myth about fringes: that they are low-maintenance. While they may not take hours to style each morning, no matter your hair type, a fringe will require an element of daily coercion. If you exercise regularly, you’ll encounter an oil slick between washes, so dry shampoo will be your new confidante; ditto your hairdryer.

KNOW YOUR FACE SHAPE

Consult your usual stylist, who will be able to assess the best fringe type for your face shape, as well as how far back on the crown to start it.

As a general rule, heart-shaped faces suit just about anything, while narrow faces can pull off a fringe that’s ultra-blunt. For a universally flattering style, make it arrow-shaped.

GROWING PAINS

If there’s one bugbear when lopping a fringe, it’s the grow-out phase. Hair grows at an average rate of 1.25cm per month, but that doesn’t mean you need to forgo trims. Ask your stylist to feather out the ends so they eventually assimilate with the rest of your strands, and choose a part line — middle or side — to sweep once it starts blocking your vision.

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style | fitness

TREADMILL VERSUS TRACK hether you run for fitness or for fun there has W always been the age-old question, to use the mill or not the mill.

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Running outside versus running on a treadmill might seem like the same thing. However, there are some major differences that set them apart — besides the physical fitness benefits you gain one way or the other, there are some elements running on a treadmill has that a jog outside doesn’t necessarily have. The temperature inside a gym or house can be changed with the push of a button. It could be an uncomfortable 32 degrees outside with high UV readings, the benefit of a treadmill is you can run in the aircon in the comfort of a gym without getting sunburnt. The decision of what route you’re going to take when you go for a run might depend on the amount of time you have to run, traffic and toilet breaks. All these interferences are irrelevant when you run on a treadmill; you think you have an hour to exercise, and suddenly you have to pick up the kids — stepping off a treadmill is a million times easier than running all the way back to where you started outside; you also can’t get lost on a treadmill. Turning the tables, we can also look at running outside as a positive. Want to get that daily Vitamin D you never get from sitting in an office? Going for on outdoor jog will guarantee you get that much needed fresh air. Maybe you don’t want to be disturbed while exercising, going for a run on the road will ensure you get the exercise you want without cutting it short for others. Everyone knows we need exercise to stay fit and healthy, and running has always been an effective workout. So, whether you run inside or outside should be determined by your lifestyle, and what you enjoy more. Don’t get bored in a building if you want to run in a park and do try to make the most of your exercise. www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

fitness | style Touching Base with GOLDEN GLOVE’S BOXER

Anna Christodoulou hen Anna Christodoulou’s W father invited her to come try boxing at nine, she reluctantly

agreed. “It was just boxercise sort of stuff, but I really liked it,” Anna says. Since joining her current gym (Smithy’s TGW) Anna believes she’s stepped up completely. “I’m a different boxer compared to what I was a year ago,” she says. Competing in the Golden Gloves — Australia’s most prestigious amateur boxing tournament — in Brisbane last year, Anna came away with a gold medal and title Australian Golden Gloves Champion for her division. She found herself in the ring against a boxer from South Australia. “It wasn’t easy, but I’ve versed (sic) harder girls,” Anna says. Confident with her fight, Anna

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still felt like crying when the winner was announced. “I knew I won, there was no knock out, it went the whole three rounds; [but] when I win, I feel like crying, I just feel really happy.” Anna loves the atmosphere of boxing and has her goals planned for this new year. “I really hope to get into the Australian team or get an Australian title — it’s really hard for girls to be recognised cause it’s a male-dominated sport.” Being the only female in her team, she trains daily with male boxers. Anna finds the boys inspiring, motivating her to want to win. “I see them winning and I think, now I have to win,” Anna says. Although, that doesn’t mean Anna

won’t get in the ring with them. “I spar the boys frequently. “I try to keep up with them, but they can’t really go their full heaviest — there is a big weight difference between me and most of the boys,” she says. Toowoomba has recognised boxers and Anna really admires them. “I always look up to the pros here; they might not be world-wide known, but pros like Stevie Spark, Gaven (Hornery), Jack Asis and Herman (Ene-Purcel) I see how much they train, what you have to put in to get where they are. “The best tip they’ve given me is ‘if you train hard, you can fight easy’.”

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YOUR BACK-TOSCHOOL CHECKLIST

JOIN THE SUCCESS OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOL

atholic school communities are places where families and staff share the incredibly important responsibility of supporting and nurturing the well-being and learning of our young people. All 31 Catholic system schools in our diocese share the challenging mission of academic success and making Jesus known in the lives of every student. There are 1700 reasons why students flourish in our schools…our staff. After the family, the teacher is the most influential person in the lives of students while they are at school. Our staff are passionate and inspired people who make Catholic schools places in which student learning is nurtured, shared and celebrated. This opportunity is affordable and open to all. I invite you to discover the positive difference our schools are making in the lives of students.

specially if there’s more than one child to arrange, getting ready for school to resume for a new year can be full-on. Here’s a basic checklist: ■ Check what supplies like pencils, markers, etc. are leftover from last year, then make a time to go shopping or order online with the school booklist. ■ Look into lunchbox food options with your child. You may want to create a makeshift menu to make it easier on yourself or if your child is learning to pack themselves. ■ Set aside an evening or a weekend for labelling school supplies and covering books. Decide whether you want to involve your child in this process or not. ■ Check your child’s school uniform still fits so you have enough time to order in a larger size if they’ve grown over summer. Also, find their hat; it’s probably gone walk-about over summer... ■ If there’s going to be after-school activities this year, book your child’s place into them. This will also assist you in creating your personal timetable with work and school pick-ups.

Dr Pat Coughlan executive director; Catholic Schools Diocese of Toowoomba

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FAIRHOLME TO BOND A

lissa Woods was identified by Bond University as a student with exceptional achievements – both in academic and extracurricular excellence and, as a result, has been awarded a Bond Vice Chancellors Elite scholarship. “The scholarship covers 100 per cent of tuition. For me, that is worth just short of $200,000 because I am studying both a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of International Relations,” says Alissa excitedly. The Year 12 student, of Cambooya,

is in the top two percent of Year 12 students in Australia academically and has been identified by her Fairholme teachers and peers for her commitment to the community and willingness to help and inspire others. Alissa went through a lengthy selection process before being awarded the scholarship. “There were three stages – the first was a general application and two short essays. The second part included a minute-long video and the

final was the selection weekend – where I was one of 24 students.” Alissa attributes her success to her teachers at Fairholme. “Every teacher there is amazing. Their advice and support is the reason this has been possible for me. I will miss Fairholme very much next year.” Head of Teaching and Learning, Stewart Peacock says the College is thrilled at the news – but not surprised. “This is the result of several years of hard work and dedication from a student who puts her heart and soul into everything she does at Fairholme. As a collegiate school we have strong academic ties with Bond University, and the Fairholme girls who study there are ultimately sought after by some of the world’s leading firms and institutions,” he said. As part of the scholarship, Alissa will participate in the Vice-Chancellor's Mentoring Program which will connect her with an influential corporate mentor, orchestrating industry links and providing hands-on, real-world experience.

FAIRHOLME COLLEGE The LEADING school on the Darling Downs 2019 OP Results 32% Fairholme students achieved an OP 1- 5 52% Fairholme students achieved an OP 1-7 74% Fairholme students achieved an OP 1-10 *These results are consistent over a 6 year period

APPLY FOR A 2021 FAIRHOLME SCHOLARSHIP ONLINE TODAY www.fairholme.qld.edu.au Burning yet Flourishing

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January 2020 | 27

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IN THE NAME OF EDUCATION

n exciting new era has commenced for the Concordia Lutheran College community with Martin Luther Community Kindergarten, Martin Luther Outside School Hours Care and Concordia Lutheran Kindergarten changing their name as of January 1, 2020. At Concordia’s Hume Street Campus in Centenary Heights, Martin Luther Community Kindergarten will change its name to Concordia Lutheran College Hume Street Kindergarten while Martin Luther Outside School Hours Care will become Concordia Lutheran College Outside School Hours Care. At Warwick Street Campus in Harristown, Concordia Lutheran Kindergarten will change to Concordia Lutheran College Warwick Street Kindergarten. Concordia Lutheran College’s Head of College Mr Adrian Wiles said the name changes reflect the

already strong connection and cohesion between the kindergartens, Prep to Year 12 and Outside School Hours Care (OSHC). "At Concordia, we are passionate about providing a seamless transition for our students during the important early learning years of Kindergarten to Year 2," he said. "The brand-alignment is one of several initiatives underway to enhance our early learning offering." The kindergartens and OSHC will continue to be operated by Queensland Lutheran Early Childhood Services (QLECS).

QLECS Children’s Services manager Mrs Ann-Marie Davis said the changes will create exciting new opportunities for the community. "Benefits will include enhanced learning initiatives for our early childhood students and greater teacher collaboration across our K-2 staff," Mrs Davis said. Mrs Davis said the introduction of PreLit to the kindergartens would provide a strong foundation for kindergarten students to commence their literacy learning. "PreLit is an early literacy preparation program for kindergarten students," she said. "After completing PreLit, students are ready to proceed with the InitiaLit program when they begin their Prep year at Concordia," she said. "InitiaLit is an evidence-based whole-class literacy program that provides students with the essential core knowledge to become successful readers and writers," Mr Wiles said. "We saw outstanding gains made by our Prep students in their reading and writing in 2019 and will be continuing the program into Year 1 in 2020 and Year 2 in 2021," he said.

SHARE OUR PASSION FOR

EARLY LEARNING Concordia Lutheran College is pleased to announce that Martin Luther Community Kindergarten, Martin Luther Outside School Hours Care and Concordia Lutheran Kindergarten are changing their names to reflect their significant role in the Concordia Lutheran College community. At Concordia, we are passionate about providing a seamless transition for our students during the all-important early learning years of Kindergarten to Year 2. Learn more about our play and inquiry-based learning and early literacy and numeracy programs to see how Concordia inspires a lifelong love of learning…

...because learning is at the heart of everything we do. 1800 CONCORDIA | www.concordia.qld.edu.au 28 | January 2020

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more occasions â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all of which can be a blast with some drinks and nibbles. Custom order artworks (commissions) are also something we offer. Our workshops are high-quality, affordable, fun sessions which either absolute beginners or advanced artists can attend. We supply you with a high-quality blank canvas, strung and ready to hang once your masterpiece is complete. Along with all equipment needed to create your masterpiece, we will supply you with artist-quality paint and easy-to-follow instructions to create something you will truly love. I will be there the whole way through to help you out as well. I am also a travelling artist who participates in community events around Queensland and beyond. Participation in fundraising events and painting live are activities that Kreate it is involved in as well. If you are wanting to expand your creative knowledge, or just have some fun with your friends, please call on 0439 836 754. Everyone can be creative with Kreate it!

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style | community

WELCOME, EVERYONE Toowoomba is among the most welcoming cities in Australia

he Garden City has a seriously diverse population — from new arrivals to second and third generation migrants and true blue Aussies — this town is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, languages and religions. The 2011 census showed that about 11 per cent of Toowoomba’s residents were born overseas, with almost 60 per cent of the people in town sporting diverse ancestries. Once named Queensland’s most family friendly city (ranking fourth in Australia overall) in the Suncorp Bank Family Friendly City Index, it’s no wonder people come from far and wide for a taste of Toowoomba and all it has to offer. The region is the third largest refugee settlement area in Queensland and was proclaimed a Refugee Welcome Zone in 2013, meaning the people of Toowoomba

“When the cow came to us … I felt so happy. And seeing the cow, I felt in my heart that my future is going to improve, and definitely my life is going to be changed from now onwards.” — Tavish, a father who can now care for his family after receiving a cow

are committed to welcoming refugees into the community. And, it’s not just refugees who feel welcome here. Skilled migrants from countries like Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, and Australians from all over the country, come to Toowoomba to ply their trade and raise their families in a safe, growing, and welcoming community. From snags at Bunnings to Brazilian barbecues, Thai soups and Turkish delights, your tastebuds can travel the globe without ever leaving town. From Aussie slang, to posh English and foreign tongues, you can hear it all when walking around the CBD. It’s quite something and worth being proud of — mixing together so many different people and making them one by simply being hospitable.

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Your donation toward livestock will enable us to match needy families with the best animal for their specific situation. Your gift will be a stepping stone to a new way of life and impact a family today—and for years to come!

The simple gift of an incomegenerating animal can be the turning point in a family. With the additional income their animal provides, families can afford education, nourishing food, health care and a host of other essentials that will help them escape poverty.

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community | style

EXCITING WOMEN OF STRENGTH SPEAKER LINED UP FOR 2020 hen it comes to powerhouse women the Hon Julie W Bishop tops them all: first woman appointed as Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and the first

female Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and, in March, Toowoomba locals will have a chance to be inspired by Ms Bishop at the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s next Women of Strength Luncheon. Regarded as one of Australia’s best Ministers for Foreign Affairs, Ms Bishop has risen above her political career to become one of our most-loved female leaders leading the charge for gender inclusivity and equality. Toowoomba Hospital Foundation chief executive officer Alison Kennedy says the foundation is excited to welcome Ms Bishop to Toowoomba. “Ever since we’ve held Women of Strength, we’ve had requests to bring the Hon Julie Bishop to Toowoomba as our next keynote speaker; our region’s women absolutely love her and so do we; she is such a dynamic and diverse woman of strength,” Alison says. Ms Bishop says events like Women of Strength are important in empowering the next generation. “No nation can reach its potential unless it fully harnesses the energy, intellect, ideas and talent of its population, including the 50 per cent that is female,” she says. “We need more women of strength as role models and mentors so that the next generation are empowered and inspired to change our world for the better.” The Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s Women of Strength Luncheon will be held at Rumours International on Friday, March 13, with all funds raised going towards the Toowoomba Hospital Emergency Department. Tickets arecurrently sold out; but keep an eye on social media for any being given away from people who can’t attend.

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THE POWER OF LISTENING BY CATHERINE CHEEK, SPECIAL COUNSEL KENNEDY SPANNER LAWYERS

sk people about themselves and A really listen to the answer”. That is a really vital skill for lawyers to

have. Part of helping to solve your legal concern is that neither the problem nor the solution may be entirely obvious at first glance – nor may the whole solution be a legal one.

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Really listening to a client’s answer means that lawyers need to find out what is important to you and work on a plan to achieve that outcome. Lawyers tend to work towards “winning” – and so they should. However, what “winning” looks like is not the same for every person; even if the problem sounds similar to one that has been written about in case law or legislation. When lawyers really listen to the message you are communicating, not

only through your words but through hearing about your values, your goals and what is important to you, the solution may surprise you. If you are in pain, physical or emotional, it is not always obvious what the best solution is going to be for you. You may entitled to an insurance payment but that may not what be the solution you are really looking for. The solution may be that you would like the independence to start your own business or escape from life’s pressures for a while or even reduce your fears for the future of your family. To do the best job for you, lawyers need to understand what you want and help you on the way to your own personal answer, because everyone has an individual idea for how they want their future to be. As Ernest Hemingway said, “When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.” So, when you need a lawyer to help you rebuild your life after a personal setback, check that they are asking the right questions for you and truly listening to your answers.

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EMBRACE YOUR 20/20 VISION BY BEST WILSON BUCKLEY FAMILY LAW

I will protect my children from this dispute

or many people, the New Year is a time to reflect on family and relationships - whether it be trying to hold in and make a relationship work, or at the other end of the spectrum...parting ways. Regardless of what 2020 has in store for you and your relationships here are some tips for common scenarios we see: I will separate, I need to move on

Making this decision can be the hardest step in the process and the first thing you need to do is to build a support team. This team will consist of friends/family, possibly a counsellor or psychologist and, quite likely, a family lawyer. Next, get legal advice on things like: who moves out of the house, where will the children stay, how will expenses be paid? There are no set

agreement is not formalised) your ex may make a claim to it. By formalising a consent order or binding financial agreement it is unlikely that any future application to the court would be successful.

rules to these questions and each situation will be different. Get advice and do not rely on your best friend’s experience as a guide for yours. I will legally formalise my property arrangements

If you have reached an agreement about how you will divide your property this is a good start and you need to go the extra step and legally document it. If you purchase/acquire assets in the future (and your

Consider how your children are being affected; are they witnessing hostility between yourself and your ex, are they being used as carrier pigeons for information between Mum and Dad, or suffering as a result of your increased stress levels. Children are often more perceptive than we realise, be careful what they are exposed to.

I will look after myself during this process

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WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A TENANT BY ROS BURTON – PRINCIPAL THE REAL ESTATE PEOPLE

ometimes property management has more to do with matchmaking rather than plain old bricks and mortar. Every rental applicant who comes in our door has different wants and needs in a property and our job is to match those expectations with those of the landlord who owns the house or unit.

So, how do we make the perfect connection? We start by doing the usual checks and balances that any agency would (or should) do by checking TICA (a national tenancy database with information on arrears and damages)…if you are a tenant, you do not want to be on here. Next, we establish they can afford the property (by verifying their employment and income, etc) and we also turn to our industry peers.

Honest information about a tenant’s rental history is essential and the real estate agents work together on this one. Timing is also a very important factor, as it is the key to getting a great tenant. If they are a strong application and will be a good tenant – it is like a well-priced house, they are not on the market for long – you want to process that application within 24 hours and give them the good news that they have been successful. As I said earlier, matching tenant needs with owner needs is vital. If the landlord has expressed concern at having a pet at the property, then letting Liam move in with his big Alsatian probably isn’t the best fit. On the other side of the coin, there are owners who love pets and want their tenants to enjoy the property as a complete family (fur babies included). It’s a constant juggling act, but if you hit the right balance then you have a happy tenant, happy owners and hopefully less stress on your property manager – and that counts as a win for everybody.

At The Real Estate People, we consider our word is our bond and we understand how clear communication and following through on promises is an integral part of good customer service. So, whether you’re buying, renting or selling, call us today or visit our Herries Street office and discover how we can help you sleep easy at night.

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style | home white, light white and light greys, blues, greens and pale browns. The reason for such an insipid and bland colour scheme is to allow both natural and artificial light to travel further. However, don’t go too white or your room might look very sterile. These pale colours allow light to bounce off the walls and to offset the gloominess of the outside in the middle of a northern winter but also keep it warm inside.

INTERIOR DECORATING SCANDINAVIAN STYLE f you’re a renovator, DIY Iinterior enthusiast, self-proclaimed designer or even just a fan of

the old Feng Shui, then you’ve probably heard of the Scandinavian Style. The style comes from, you guessed it, Scandinavia as it follows simple design rules which are required when living up in the north. Because the sun is out for legitimately half the year, and the other half is spent in complete

darkness, the Scandinavians came up with a few interior design techniques that just make living easier. And even though we don’t experience this profound night and day here in Australia, the Scandi look has crossed the seas and moved into our Aussie homes.

COLOUR

The colour pallette for a Scandi-style home is generally white, bright

MATERIAL

The Scandi style thrives on layering. So, incorporating finishes like stone and timber floorboards are a good start. Carpets aren’t as popular but throws and rugs are a different story. Natural materials such as wool, hemp and sisal are popular picks when flooring your Scandi home. But keep it simple, because a Scandinavian-style home has a very clean look. Lastly, don’t over-do a room by filling it with everything you own. Instead, follow the flow of the room and only use what is necessary: clean lines and simple joinery are the key to the Scandi style.

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home | style between your body and the seat. Consider using chairs with bare wood or metal; better yet with wide slats for breezes to flow through.

PERSONAL SPACE

It’s a common mistake — you thought there was plenty of room for everyone, but then cousin Beth decides to bring a couple of her friends, and uncle John has a new girlfriend. Before you know it, everyone is squished like sardines at the table, sticky arms pressing into each other, heat unbearable. While you obviously can’t cater for every single unforeseeable event, it’s a great idea to keep an extra fold-out table and some chairs on hand for these circumstances.

DECK OUT YOUR ENTERTAINING AREA

Warmer weather means outdoor dinners and Australia Day

SHADES

celebrations — here are some tips on keeping cool t’s practically a part of Australian Ifamily culture in summer — friends and alike gather around the

SOFT FURNISHINGS VS HARD ACCESSORIES

Cushions look cute, but they also can get uncomfortably warm stuffed

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barbecue and back yard before sitting down to meat and salads on the deck. Particularly if you’re doing lunch however, it can get rather hot.

Fortunately, it’s simple to give your outdoor entertainment area a bit of a spruce up to help.

As well as sun protection, shade can make a massive difference to keeping cool. Whether you choose to move the outdoor setting so it’s under a large leafy tree, set up large umbrellas for added protection, or install curtains on your deck, make sure you consider this aspect before your first summer get-together.

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January 2020 | 37

style | promotion

INTRODUCING... CHARLIE’S SEW-ABLE oowoomba citizens with a passion for sewing will be T familiar with the store at 16B Prescott St, previously known as MK’s Sew-Able.

As of early December last year, the store was taken over by Sharlene Tate, who has renamed the business Charlie’s Sew-Able and is excited for her new venture. “I felt Marilyn had built up a great business and wanted to continue to offer great products to the sewing community,” Sharlene explains. “Owning a business at this time wasn’t on my radar, as I still have children at school and run a business with my husband, but I felt this business needed to stay open so I took it on,” she says. A close friend, Ruth, is helping in the shop currently. In addition to her passion for the store and the sewing pastime, the name change of the business is something close to Sharlene’s heart as well. “Charlie is my nickname that my beloved aunty gave me as a child and has stuck with me ever since, and it’s easier to remember than Sharlene,” she said. The store will continue to carry Pfaff machines and accessories, as well as stocking a larger range of fabrics and offering classes/workshops for all ages. “I am grateful to have Marilyn’s (the previous owner) customer base supporting me in my journey, and I hope to continue and build on her legacy going forward.”

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home | style

CLASSIC BLUE: A YEAR TO SHINE new year and a new season — this can mean only one thing; new trends popping up everywhere. In the home is no exception; with the arrival of 2020, Pantone announced their ‘colour of the year’ as Classic Blue. A versatile colour, the interior designers are predicting this shade will soon be cropping up everyone as a representation of a “dependable and stable foundation to move forward to a new era”. Blue has often been touted as a calm, solid, peaceful colour, but its traditional hue also means it’s a great background to build upon in your decor. Pantone recommends pairing the shade with saffron yellow, soft pink, or rick forest green. A deep blue like this also comes with the flexibility to be dressed up or down. The Fresh Bedroom Co (their decor

pictured opposite left) choose to dress it up with rich golds and classic cream; plush velvets and hand-carved mahogany. A country-esque, casual look can be created with untreated wood or white-wash furniture, and varying patterns and shades of blue in soft furnishings (such as H.O.C.K.’s example pictured bottom right). For those who like to add a dash of fun or boldness to their interior, pair this classic blue with a deep burnt orange or red. If calmness and a sense of peace is your goal, stick to deeper shades of blue with white walls and neutral or pale pink furnishings (such as the bedroom pictured top right from Bedtonic). Be sure to include some ‘warm’ blues in this decor, such as demin shades, or else the room may become cold and unwelcoming instead of light and fresh.

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January 2020 | 41

Style Artist Casey Burrill chats to Style

When did you start painting? It’s always been something I’ve gravitated towards and knew it was something I’d love to pursue from a very young age. My love of visual arts began with my pa, a watercolour artist living in Tasmania. I would watch him paint as a child and was always fascinated. It started becoming more of an obsession about three years ago when I started painting almost daily, and now I can’t imagine not having art involved in my day to day life. Describe your style? Emotive and expressionistic. I’m a big fan of abstract representation and outlines. I love the sentiment of artist Tony Costa in his description of outline and allowing the rest to be made up by the viewer’s

imagination. The connection to rhythm in my paintings could be a reflection of growing up in a musical household. What inspires you? Good energy, water, movement, my children and empowerment. How has it evolved? My work began as a big mixture of marks in bright bold colours using scraping tools, hands and paintbrushes. I began introducing abstract subjects and shapes over the last few years, adding an element of symbolism. The initial exploration process is a lot of fun but it’s also exciting when you start to find your groove and develop a deeper connection. I look forward to painting more symbolic art based on new experiences and travel.

Why do you enjoy painting? It always gives more energy than it takes. It’s an exciting thought knowing that you’re creating something that previously never existed. Highlights of your artistic life? Meeting dream mentors within the industry and having a strong community of friends. Painting with my children Lexi, Mika and Otis and being able to travel for work are also pretty cool! What do you like about Toowoomba? I love the supportive community of people I’ve met throughout my involvement in the Grammar Art Show. What is your dream goal? I’d love to exhibit internationally; NYC would be a dream!

For your calendar..

GRAMMAR We are pleased to have Casey Burrill exhibiting again in 2020

Art Show 28-29 March 2020

Antoinette Ferwerda

Karen Cutler

A diverse & beautiful range of art ... brought together for you Casey Burrill

art | style

CAPTURE THE MEMORIES indy MacDonald is a jack of many trades, with the CA love ability to create art in many mediums. of the looseness of watercolour, the directness of

pastel and charcoal, textile art and furniture painting — but more than the rest, her favourite medium is oil. “I love the feel and the smell,” Cindy says. “I wish I could do abstract painting; my style is representational, and I have to paint what I see,” she says. Since she was a child, Cindy has loved drawing dogs, birds, big cats and people — and she says nothing has changed. “I love doing pet portraits, portraits and painting people’s precious memories and honouring the little lives that bless us so much.” The self-taught artist has attended a limited number of art classes but that hasn’t stopped her from going for gold. Cindy has won awards at the Toowoomba Royal Show for textile art and drawing and pastel paintings. She is most proud of a portrait she entered several years ago of her father; taking out the prestigious Grand Champion of Show. “Apparently, I was the first person since 1952 to take out that prize with a portrait,” Cindy says. For the future, Cindy would love to run ‘creativity classes’ and encourage those who love to learn how to paint, as she believes we are all made with the ability to be creative — we just forget how to be.

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www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

January 2020 | 43

style | motoring

LEATHER OR NOT eather interior in a car has L always been assimilated with luxury, wealth and authenticity.

But, are they all they’re talked up to being? Is the alternative cloth or upholstery more superior? We’ve put together some pros and cons of a leather interior and, with that information, you can decide for yourself whether leather is what you want in your car.

PROS:

+ HARD TO STAIN:

Leather can be stained, but it’s much more resilient than its cloth counterpart when generic stains like earth and liquids come in contact. Because of its soft and smooth surface, leather cleans super easy: suck up dirt and wipe off residue.

+ REDUCES ALLERGENS:

Because dust, dirt and debris have trouble clinging to leather, you can breathe easier.

+ SMELLS GOOD:

Not everyone enjoys the smell of leather, but what people might not realise is that leather doesn’t absorb odour — it has a smell which some refer to as ‘new car smell’.

+ COMFORTABLE:

The thickness of the leather is quite silky and soft which is great for cushioning your tush.

+ RESALE RESPECT:

Leather = $$$ when it comes to selling a car. Because it’s in demand, leather tends to be worth more when put back on the market, provided it is well-maintained.

CONS: - EXPENSIVE:

The obvious negative of having leather car seats is the sheer price. In high-end cars, the luxury of leather is quite typical. In the average car, you can be

confident that having leather interior will be an upgrade.

- TEMPERATURE:

If you’ve ever sat in a car left in the sun and it hurts to touch the seat belt and steering wheel, leather seats probably aren’t a good choice. The material will absorb the heat and make sitting uncomfortable or even painful. You could upgrade to climate-controlled seating, but this can be financially exorbitant.

- MAINTENANCE:

Easily cleaned, leather is not as easy to maintain. Over time, the accumulation of sweat, dust, spills and crumbs will weed their way into the seams and pores of the leather. Without vigilant care, this will begin to show and can harden and cause cracks in the leather. To fix and repair leather seating, it can require a heavy wallet.

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A L L- N E W M A Z DA C X- 3 0

CO M I N G S O O N TO W I P P E L L S M A Z DA

A NEW DIMENSION OF LUXURY It’s the newest member of the Mazda family – a perfectly sized small SUV, surprisingly spacious and unique in every way. All-New Mazda CX-30 arrives soon and will challenger everything you expect a small SUV to be. Sleek and bold in its design, faultlessly crafted and totally luxurious, drivers will love the exciting performance while passengers will appreciate the ambience of the whisper quiet cabin.

LUXURY WITH ROOM TO MOVE The perfect use of space is no more evident than in the cabin. A sense of oneness envelops the driver with everything close at hand. In contrast, there is a sense of clean open space. Interior details, beautiful ﬁnishes and quality materials greet you at every turn. From the perfect seating position to the angles of the screen and air vents, the human-centric design of the cabin leaves nothing to chance. There’s ample luggage space too with a generous 430L of space in the boot.

INTRODUCING VISION TECHNOLOGY All-New Mazda CX-30 gives you the choice of Vision Technology to transform your drive into a truly effortless one. Consisting of 5 intuitive features and available to all grades, it includes a 360º View Monitor,† for superior visibility during low speed manoeuvres. There is also Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS), which assists with the accelerator, brake and steering while stuck in traffic. Driver Monitoring uses an infrared camera to detect driver drowsiness and deliver an alert when needed. Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) checks for approaching vehicles in blind spots at T-intersections, and Front Parking Sensors help you handle parking with ease.

January 2020 | 45

style | entertainment

Common time with:

SHARK DRIVE

WHO ARE YOUR MUSIC INFLUENCES?

I grew up idolising classic pop-punk bands like Green Day and Blink-182, so I’d be lying if I didn’t include them. Lately though, I’ve been drawing from a lot of weirder influences, like They Might Be Giants and Devo.

oowoomba has quite a number of bands that are beginning to make their way in the music industry. The four Morgan brothers — consisting of Robert on guitar and vocals, Michael on bass, Joseph on keyboard and vocals and the youngest Matthew on the drumkit — are no exception. Ranging from the ages of 15 to 24, the brothers make up the band Shark Drive and have been performing together for almost five years now. In 2010, the brothers all began learning different musical instruments, and after swallowing their pride in 2014 the boys decided to practise together, and so Shark Drive was conceived. Shark Drive began with covers; a notable fan favourite was their cover of the Beastie Boys Fight For Your Right. It wasn’t until 2018 that the brothers wrote and released their first single Insomnia. “The response to that (Insomnia) has been overwhelming,” Robert says. “We’re really proud of that song.” In 2017, Shark Drive had the opportunity to be the opening performance for the Aussie punk band Frenzal Rhomb. Since then, they’ve played at Toowoomba’s Falling Leaves Festival and the brothers say this performance has been their biggest and most hyped audience so far. Shark Drive have travelled all over Queensland and have their fingers crossed that they’ll venture interstate and across Australia this year. We had a chat with lead guitar and singer Robert Morgan and asked him a bit about life and music.

FAVOURITE ARTIST RIGHT NOW? Absolute favourite act right now is PUP, from Canada — just an incredibly innovative and catchy pop-punk band, easily the best in the entire genre now.

FUNNIEST STORY PERFORMING?

Years ago, we played at a battle of the bands show in Brisbane, it was the Queensland finals and we’d come in first place in the Toowoomba heat. It was only a four-song set, during the third song, Michael got down on his knees to play up to the crowd a bit, but he couldn’t get back up. He had somehow managed to dislocate his knee during the performance, but he didn’t want to draw attention to it, so he finished the rest of the set before telling anyone what happened. And we even managed to get third place, despite all that!

WHAT TREND IS OVERRATED?

I really wish we’d stop getting big, overblown, over-produced rock anthems. Stuff that sounds like Imagine Dragons and Sheppard — not a knock against those guys, but it seems like modern popular rock bands are all just trying to make stuff that sounds like Radioactive. That was like 2012, that’s seven years ago! Give us something new!

WHICH FAMOUS ARTIST WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET AND WHY?

Not necessarily to play music with him or anything, but I feel that Weird Al would have some absolutely amazing stories to tell. For a pop-culture nerd like me, I can’t think of anyone who would be more interesting to sit and have a yarn with.

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food | style

SALT, FAT, ACID, HEAT If you master these four elements, you will master the kitchen

erhaps you own the cookbook, or maybe you’ve seen the adaptation on Netflix and sat, like many, drooling in front of the TV. In her award–winning cookbook, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, Samin Nosrat breaks cooking down into the four essential elements to guarantee a delicious meal and, in the Netflix documentary, she shows viewers how it’s all done. This is what you will learn if you watch the series or buy the cookbook:

SALT enhances flavour — or

modifies other flavours — and affects the texture of your dish, so you should know the different kinds of salts, how much to add and when to add it. Like salt, FAT is essential for flavour and texture and is used to create five distinct textures: crispy, creamy, flaky, tender and light. While not necessarily great all by itself, ACID balances flavour by contrasting with other tastes, like salt or sweetness. The last element to master — HEAT — is arguably the hardest one. Heat transforms your ingredients

from raw food to a beautifully cooked meal, but can cause everything to go awry if not treated with respect. Whether you decide to cook your food slowly over gentle heat, or quickly over high heat, will determine how well the other three elements come together in the end. Choosing the right heat can be a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it will seem like common sense. As Samin promises, if you master these elements, you will become master of the kitchen. At the very least, developing a good working knowledge of these elements will help you host friends and family with confidence.

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January 2020 | 47

style | travel

DID YOU KNOW VENICE IS ALSO IN FRANCE? BY KATHERINE SAMPSON

illions of travellers visit Venice every year, but around 650km west of the overly tourist-populated city is another town with its own Venetian character. Known as the Venice of the Alps, Annecy is a town in the department of Haute-Savoir in France. I took a day trip to Annecy as I wanted to see for myself what all the hype of the town was, and I was not disappointed. Arriving in the town of Annecy, it

looked like any modern-day concrete jungle: full of apartments and town housing. I parked at the Annecy Train Station, walked about 200m to the entrance of Old-Annecy and froze as my eyes took in the marvels of the town. The cobblestone streets were smooth and shiny from centuries of foot traffic, the trees looked almost fake with their vibrant spring flowers all in bloom. The water that ran the lengths of the main street was a bright blue, and the swans floating down the river

just added to the magical feel of it all. It was a warm day, so my first stop was at one of the many Glaciers (ice-cream shops) to cool down. With my three-tiered cold stack of goodness, I made my way to the river opening where the stream met Lake Annecy and the ground transformed from the rocky floor to a luscious greenery of parklands. It was like walking into a painting; there were wedding photos taking

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travel | style

place, every table was full of families enjoying a picnic spread and children ran around with bubble blowers. I walked a good distance around the lake and took in the alpine view which backed on to the lake. The only evidence of any tourist attractions were the pedal boats travellers, and locals alike, hiring out to visit the Île des Cygnes (Island of Swans) in the middle of the lake. I lapped Old-Annecy a good three times before promising myself to return and purchased myself a keyring to remember the beautiful township.

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January 2020 | 49

style | weddings

YOUR RIGHT HAND Best men and maids of honour do more than plan parties

hoosing a best man and a maid of honour can be tough, especially if you have a best friend and a sibling competing for the position. At the end of the day, the person you choose to be your right hand, will do more than just plan your bachelorettes and bucks’ parties. They will stand as your first witness and they will speak for you at the reception. This is a place of high honour, presented to the person who means the most to you (apart from your intended, of course) and knows you particularly well. So, what do you do if you’re torn between choosing your sibling and choosing your best mate, both of whom have been there for you through thick and thin? The hard truth is that this depends entirely on the unique

situation you find yourself in. Ask yourself whether you are drawn to either of the candidates because of a sense of tradition or guilt — and be honest with yourself. Just because one of the two is the expected choice, does not mean you have to choose them. If you’re afraid of how they might take your decision, talk to them about why you would like to choose the other person. Chances are, they will understand more than you might think, will give you their blessing and won’t take it personally — we’re talking about your family and your best friend, after all. If choosing is something you cannot bring yourself to do, nothing is stopping you from having two best men or maids of honour. It’s your wedding day, so you make the rules.

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wedding | style

BEAUTIFUL BOUQUETS lowers are an integral part of F weddings; not only adding to the romance and beauty of the occasion,

but also imparting different meanings. The floral arrangements you choose for your wedding — including bouquets, centrepieces and the flowers that decorate your venue — account for a significant amount of the average wedding budget, so it’s important to think carefully before choosing.

CONSIDER THESE TIPS:

White bouquets are a popular traditional choice but more vibrant bouquets add colour to the ensemble and photos. Muted and romantic combinations of white and pink, or white and cream, pair better with a classic wedding. If you like traditions, you may

ADD A SPLASH OF COLOUR TO YOUR BIG DAY, WITH A BOUQUET

want to consider the meaning of flowers as you decide what to put in your bouquet. The language of flowers is called ‘floriography’ and has been popular since Victorian times. For example, lily–of–the–valley means ‘trustworthy’, myrtle stands for ‘hope and love’, and hyacinth has a double meaning with ‘constancy of love’ and representing sport or play. The colours of roses — and some other flowers — also have significance, such as red meaning passion and courage, pale pink standing for grace and admiration, and yellow signifying joy and true friendship. Bouquets can be adorned or bound with ribbons, pearls, feathers or diamantes. Ensure the florist removes any pollen from your bouquet to prevent staining your dress.

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January 2020 | 51

style | advice

BACK TO SCHOOL BY JAN WARD - TOOWOOMBA AND DARLING DOWNS FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY

hristmas is over and, with the New Year, we are starting to think about the start of the new school year. When children start school, their details begin to be recorded and these are a wonderful source of information for family historians. The most readily available school record is the school admission register; although some corporal punishment books have survived, and these can be fun to peruse and find out what upright citizens did in their youth.

• •

• • • •

What school admission registers can tell us

•

Date of admission and leaving school and perhaps returning

•

after a spell elsewhere (look for admission to another school during the missing period) Age (in early records) or date of birth Name of parent or guardian (be careful of this one. Do not assume that the person named is the father or is even alive) Occupation of parent or guardian Address Religion Sometimes, if you are lucky, their scholarship or junior results (or the secondary school or apprenticeship they went on to) is recorded. If you are very lucky, there

may be a comment as well. Here in Queensland, the Department of Education required state schools to deposit their Admission Registers with the State Archives and the Toowoomba and Darling Downs Family History Society has acquired copies of these from many parts of Queensland. We have all Toowoomba state schools and some independent schools, many Darling Downs schools including some that are now closed and more across the state. Unfortunately, most surviving records date from the 1880s, although many local schools including Warwick, Jondaryan and Toowoomba South opened many years before. In other states, the records are not so extensive - and overseas are more difficult to find. I traced my grandmother and her family around South East Queensland as she had attended eight different schools by the time she was 10. The records also gave me the changes in occupations of her father. Just recently, I acquired photos of my father in his secondary school athletics and football teams from magazines in our possession.

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style | events

WHAT’S ON

Discover events on, in and around the Garden City this month

TAKE THE KIDS TO A CREATIVE WORKSHOP THESE HOLIDAYS

STAR STORY WORKSHOP

MCGREGOR SUMMER ARTS RETREAT

WHEN: Thursday, January 9, from 10am to noon or from 2pm to 4pm WHERE: Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, 531 Ruthven St, Toowoomba City WHAT: Introduce the kids to a different form of art with this workshop hosted by artist Keg de Sousa. Keg will begin the session with a story about stars that relates to her cultural heritage, then encourage the children to share their own local stories. Everyone will then create a drawing related to those stories and use a star chart to create a dot-to-dot-like work that tells said story. For ages five to 13, this workshop is free but bookings are a must by calling the art gallery on 131 872.

TueS 7Th JAn 20

Wed 8Th JAn 20 + ThurS 16Th JAn 20

RECEPTACLES: CLAY SCULPTURE WORKSHOP

WHEN: Sunday, January 12, to

Saturday, January 18, from 8.30am to 4pm daily WHERE: University of Southern Queensland Toowoomba campus, West St, Darling Heights WHAT: The perfect getaway for the creatives. For everyone from the beginner to the expert and all those in between, there is a workshop to enjoy at this annual event. Classes include various acrylic paint techniques, calligraphy, ceramics, charcoal and mixed media, general drawing, jewellery, millinery, mokuhanga, various techniques with oils and watercolours, pastels, printmaking, and theatre. Book at usq.edu.au

WHEN: Wednesday, January 15, from 10am to 11am, or from 2pm to 3pm WHERE: Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, 531 Ruthven St, Toowoomba City WHAT: This workshop for ages five to 13 is the perfect introduction to sculpture for your kids this school holidays. Young ones will enjoy learning how to make functional and decorative ceramics in a relaxed, friendly and creative atmosphere with the staff from Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery. The workshop will take inspiration from the current Receptacles exhibition, and include moulding, pressing and joining to create a cup, jar, bowl or vase. The cost is $7.50 per child, and places are limited, so book now by calling 131 872.

ThurS 9Th JAn 20 + Mon 13Th JAn 20

Fri 10Th JAn 20

TueS 14Th JAn 20

Wed 15Th JAn 20

Fri 17Th JAn 20

9:00am till 3:00pm

9:30am departs from Breakaway on Bridge

9:00am till 3:00pm

9:00am till 3:00pn

Creative Life Skills for Children School

Railway & Museum

Mystery Drive - $10

Bowling x 2 Games - $12

Movies - $20

Darling Downs Zoo - $28

BBQ Lunch at Mystery Location

Swimming & BBQ at Highﬁelds heated pool followed by Easter Egg Hunt - $15

Toowoomba Cobb & Co

Gold Coin Donaiton

*BYO Park Lunch, Hat and Water*

*BYO Park Friendly Lunch*

Departs at 9:30am from BOB.

Please provide sunscreen and hat.

Exploring the festive activities hosted by Cobb & Co. *BYO Park Friendly Lunch*

DownsSteam Tourist 2:30pm till 3:00pm Back at Breakaway on Bridge for Collection Time

2:30pm till 3:00pm

Back at Breakaway on Bridge for Collection Time

Activities Schedules 54 | January 2020

*BYO Lunch Please*

A 27 Mort Street, Toowoomba

P 4639 5100 www.breakawaytmba.org

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*BYO Park Friendly Lunch*

www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

events | style

AUSTRALIA DAY AT HIGHFIELDS PIONEER VILLAGE

WHEN: Sunday, January 26, from 9am to 5pm WHERE: Highfields Pioneer Village, 73 Wirraglen

Rd, Highfields WHAT: Celebrate Australia Day in olde world style. There will be a plethora of activities for the entire family, as well as delicious damper and billy tea to enjoy, the official awards ceremony, and a Bush Band. Check out the blacksmithing demonstrations or the animal nursery, take a ride in the mini steam train, or challenge the kids in the family games. Until 1.30pm (after which entry is free), entry is $12 adults, $10 concession, $6 kids or $30 for a family of two adults and four children.

TOOWOOMBA FARMERS MARKET

WHEN: Every Saturday, from 7am

to noon

WHERE: Under the windmills at

Cobb+Co Museum, 27 Lindsay St, East Toowoomba WHAT: Butchers, bakers and candle makers are just some of the stallholders you can meet at the Toowoomba Farmers Market. The market features ethically-farmed meat, local fresh produce, artisan bread and pastries, homemade preserves and fabulous crafts.

26 WATER RESTRICTIONS INFORMATION SESSION

WHEN: Thursday, January 30,

CRAZY SCIENCE SHOW

WHEN: Friday, January 17, from 10.30am WHERE: Armitage Centre, Empire Theatres precinct, 54-56 Neil St, Toowoomba City WHAT: Join award-winning entertainer Richard Scholes through an adventure of science, magic, humour and art. Tickets cost $20 per person or $70 for a group of four, and can be purchased at the box office or via empiretheatre.com.au

from 4.30pm to 6.30pm WHERE: Toowoomba City Library, 155 Herries St, Toowoomba City WHAT: This information session will answer all your questions about the recent water restrictions in the Garden City. Toowoomba was upgraded to Medium Level water restrictions in December, so it’s important to ensure you have a comprehensive idea of what this means for your household. Toowoomba Regional Council’s specialised water team will be available at the library, but if you can’t make it to the event, you can ask questions via phone on 131 872 or via email at info@tr.qld.gov.au

Enjoy the country atmosphere at the

Cabarlah Markets

Last Sunday of every month* 7.30am to 12.30pm

9856 New England Highway, Cabarlah *December market is on the second Sunday www.cabarlah-markets.org.au www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

January 2020 | 55

style | socials

SCENE Mums and bubs, midwives and hospital supporters, all gathered together on Friday, November 29, to celebrate the birth of the 1000th baby, Maya, under My Midwives’ care. The event also acknowledged the wonderful impact that My Midwives has on the community.

An Inspirational Gift!

Ruth is for women who care about their families, their communities and their country.

It’s a down-to-earth magazine that shares stories about local women and their life journeys whilst celebrating Australian communities, produce, designers and ideas. Our writers are from all walks of life and each piece they contribute brings the magazine together in a way that will bring you joy, comfort and inspiration.

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socials | style

3 2 1:: Elly Bradfield and Mallory

Anderson with their bubbas.

2:: Gabrielle Richardson, Johanna Paul, and Roxy Scholefield with their little cherubs. 3:: Ashleigh Griffiths with her children. 4:: Proud mums Natalie Symes, Alicia Vohland, Alex Jackson, and Laura Ryan. 5:: Shelley Ford, Amanda Staines

and 1000th birth baby, Maya, with Liz Wilkes and Sharon Dalton. 6:: Sharon Dalton, Ros Beard,

Tracey O'Shea, Liz Wilkes, Kelly Law, Jess Thomas, Jo Holles, Hannah Currie and Shelly Ford.

PHONE: (07) 5490 5490

reception@monacocaloundra.com.au Otranto Avenue, Caloundra Queensland 4551 *T&C’s apply, subject to availability

www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

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January 2020 | 57

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Authentic Billy Tea & Damper, Food, BBQ also featuring: Bushranger Café • Milking the cow at 9.30am • Beekeeping • Sheep Shearing • Blacksmithing • Draught Horse • Country Music • Aboriginal Art display • Mini-steam train rides • Southern Cross/Ambulance/Fire Brigade/Push bike Museums

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horoscopes | style

Well, let’s hope that you make the most of the New Year, as it is all hard work from here on in. You have got this in the bag though, as there is no one more prepared to put in the hard yards than an Aries.

TAURUS

IT’S IN THE STARS

Apr 21st – May 21st Bulls will be happily grazing in new pastures it seems, so whether it is a relocation or simply a change of career either way it works out brilliantly for Taureans. Never one to be stuck in a rut, the grass can be greener on the other side of the fence.

CAPRICORN

GEMINI

Dec 22nd – Jan 20th While it might seem that it is time to honour those New Year’s resolutions, do you really want to stop having so much fun? Sure, eating well and exercising should be at the top of your list; however, you still need a couple of indulgent moments during January.

May 22nd – June 22nd Take a deep breath and count to 10 before you explode, Gemini. It is simply a matter or working out which peg to put into which basket. Not all people are as caring and generous as yourself, so it could be time to take a backward step and let someone else do something beautiful for you.

AQUARIUS

CANCER

Jan 21st – Feb 19th Back in focus Aquarius — it is time to get back on the horse you rode in on, and feel confident that your goals will be reached. It may have been a stressful 2019, but 2020 has loads of plans for you. Be brave, step out with confidence, and enjoy a great year.

June 23rd – July 23rd You have partied your little heart out over Christmas and New Year, so step away from the party bus; take some time out to relax. There is nothing better than a chilled crab: you work better and will be able to focus better.

PISCES

July 24th – Aug 23rd 2020 is going to be a fantastic year. This will be a year when all your hopes and dreams reach fruition, so face the world with a big smile and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

ARIES

Mar 21st – Apr 20th

Hairy does the Job A Chartered Accountant with a sense of humour www.thechronicle.com.au/lifestyle

VIRGO

Aug 24th – Sept 24th Look at you go, Virgo! Who would

LIBRA

Sept 24th – Oct 23rd Your health is important right now, so ensure you make that much needed contact with the people who care about you the most. They will be able to pick up if you are simply being a duck in the water: all calm on the surface but paddling full throttle under the water. Stress levels can be taxing, so maybe join a self-help group or do some yoga which will be great for the soul.

SCORPIO

Oct 24th – Nov 22nd Is 2020 going to be a big year? Yes, it sure is for Scorpio. You welcome a new member to the household; as if your life isn’t crazy enough. Money will be high on the agenda so expect a little windfall to come your way which will help pay the bills and buy something nice for you to enjoy.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov 23rd – Dec 21st It is over for another year, and I know you don’t want to put away the tree and all the tinsel, but it is a job that must be done. Or if you prefer just to leave it until the very last minute, wrap it in plastic wrap and put it in the spare room... Who am I kidding? I know there is a place for everything! Besides, it is time to get prepared for Easter. Now, where did you put your bunny ears?

Jeff Hannaford is a Community Chartered Accountant and Trouble Shooter who has been in business since 1978 when he opened up his first office in Inglewood. His business has now grown with another 2 offices in Texas and Millmerran. Don’t delay, contact and enjoy the experience of good old fashioned service. For a free insight into what changes you could make to your business, call Jeff on 0429 894 937

Jeff Hannaford Pty Ltd Ofﬁce Contacts: Millmerran 07 4695 1477 | Inglewood 07 4652 1106 Texas 07 4653 1155

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Feb 20th – Mar 20th If you are feeling a little down after all the celebrations of the festive season don’t panic. It is simply allowing you time to touch base with reality and keep you grounded.

LEO

have thought that this year, plans finally fall into place. New year, new you, perhaps a new house to boot. Virgo people hate being tied down into a boring, dull routine so out with the old and in with the new. Get back into exercise — it makes you feel great to be showing off your curves in some amazing outfits.

January 2020 | 59