SUMMER 2014
Your Abode
THE JOY
of Christmas
Stunning Spain and
Portugal
HOME
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GARDENING
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DINING
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AC C OMMODAT I ON SUMMER 2014
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2 SUMMER 2014
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12/11/14 4:38 PM
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Contents
INSIDE
16 6
AT A GLANCE
13 MUSIC IN MOTION
CHRIS WILSON
Jessica Shepherd Photography
16 A NATURAL APPROACH
TOXICITY IN OUR PRODUCTS
20 OUR OFFSPRING
STATE VS PRIVATE SCHOOL
24 LIFESTYLE & BALANCE
THE ART OF TEA
28 FASHION
THROUGH THE LENSE
31 LEISURE & TRAVEL
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STUNNING SPAIN AND PORTUGAL
35 A JOYOUS DAY 36 CHRISTMAS DECOR
TABLE LAYOUT
39 GIFT GIVING
CHRISTMAS GIFTS UNDER $100
44 RECIPES
CHRISTMAS SWEET DELIGHTS
47 ABODE
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48 BATHROOM DIRECTIONS 51 BAMBORA
REFINED & RECYCLED
54 STORYBROOK HOMES
A UNIQUE DESIGN
57 THE OUTDOOR ZONE 61 FITNESS
61 Bay Lifestyle Magazine is published by Southern Publishers Pty Ltd. ABN 13 101 848 408 Level 3, 83 Moorabool Street, Geelong, Victoria 3220 ph: 03 5221 2644 fx: 03 5221 7066 Managing Editor: Trudi Bondarenko Production Manager: Briana Roach Layout/Design: Vivien Walker Designs Printed by Hannanprint For all advertising enquiries, please contact: Account Manager Semir Mustovic: semir@southernpublishers.com.au ph: 0424 868 103 Front Cover: Product from Townhouse Living, Photograph courtesy of Caleb Plumridge
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BALANCING DIET & EXERCISE
64 GARDEN STYLE
YOUR SUMMER GARDEN
66 THE FINAL WORD
ROXIE BENNETT
EDITORS NOTE It is that wonderful time of the year again, the one we dream about in the cold and gloomy winter months, where we wish for warmth on our bodies, our moods to be lifted and outdoor activity simply to become a daily event. Yes it’s officially summer and we now have three glorious months of it to look forward to and enjoy. To top it off the big red man will be strutting his stuff, of which we will celebrate in the lead up, on the day and beyond. Yes Christmas definitely gives us cause for great celebration‌. In this issue of Bay Lifestyle, we represent Christmas with some gorgeous Christmas tables to admire and pay homage to... they really are simply stunning and certainly offer some great style ideas for our own tables on the big day. Some sweet Christmas recipes have also been included, who can possibly resist really? There is always Boxing Day to start our summer diet! Also, our Christmas gift guide offers some great gifts for even our most difficult to buy for, but make sure you put them wrapped under the tree clearly named, or you may simply want to keep them for yourself! The rest of this issue covers some great topics of interest and contemplative dinner conversation! Our parenting section highlights a very popular topic amongst parents; do we put our finances on the line and invest in a private secondary school education for our children or do we embrace our public school system? There is no clear answer to this, but certainly some thoughts to ponder and consider. Another interesting subject is the hundreds of toxic chemicals in our home products, they are quite alarming and certainly cause for concern. We really need to educate ourselves and protect our families, our Natural Approach article will certainly assist and no doubt influence us to rethink our choices. Travel is certainly something we would all like to do more of. Well, one of our in-house staff has the opportunity, with a big thanks to Insight Vacations, to enjoy seven days taking in the wonderful history and culture of glorious Spain and Portugal. Enjoy the day by day account of the amazing adventure that is coming her way, of which the rest of us are absolutely green with envy! We launched our Abode section in our spring issue and here it is again brimming with some great style advice and some divine products to consider for your own abode. Finally, we look at the importance of diet in our fitness section, which without considering when we are dieting can outcome in less than desired results. We love this season, but our gardens are not enthusiastic about the drying elements of the hot sun. Fear not, as there is a great way to ensure your garden remains in a healthy state all throughout the hot season. That is summer with Bay Lifestyle, enjoy and have a safe and wonderful Christmas.
TRUDI AND THE TEAM
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AT A GLANCE
The Pivot Difference Pivot Homes, a Geelong builder for over 25 years have enjoyed winning seven regional awards and one state award at the recent HIA Housing awards. They have been recognised for intelligent design, quality construction and finish and value for money. Their Warralily display home won the Western Victorian Display home of the year and came runner up in the state awards. Pivot also took home the Victorian Best Custom Home $500k - $1M. The owner of this house had spent thousands on architectural fees prior to engaging Pivot, but couldn’t achieve their desired budget. Working with Pivot’s in-house design team they achieved an award winning design which also met their budget. A brilliant achievement for a local company who’s philosophy is to deliver continuous quality and create innovative designs. Pivot Homes, the builder who listens. Enjoy the Pivot difference: 5243 2350 www.pivothomes.com.au
The Gordon - Kick start your year with a short course.
something for everyone.
New Years’ resolutions are all about what to give up. Make 2015 the year you learn something new. At The Gordon, we believe that education is the basis for creating personal growth and practical skills, these are the reasons thousands of people undertake short courses at The Gordon each year.
There have been some very exciting additions to the cookery courses, including; Dude Food and Beer Matching, Vegetarian, Vegan and Raw Foods and how to make the most amazing Croquembouche!
The Gordon is offering more than 104 short courses in 2015, and their breadth reflects not only the needs of employers and industry but also the latest trends and recreational skills sought by the community. Courses range from construction and safety licensing, first aid and computer skills to beauty and fashion, cookery, creative arts, animal care and language studies – there is quite literally
The highly popular fashion and beauty courses will continue again in2015 and with well-known industry experts acting as sessional teachers. With new classes starting each month and single sessions starting from as little as $50, why not book a course today? The Gordon’s January - June 2015 Short Course Menu is out now and available online at thegordon.edu.au or by calling 5225 0500 to request your free copy.
Interior Style Libby Gumley, the name behind Tof.e Interiors and DesignInside, is definitely suited to the creative role she offers within her interior and style advisory service. Libby has worked within this industry for 23 years. She worked on a number of different high end projects throughout Melbourne, Geelong and the Coast prior to starting her own business. Tof.e is a business which offers customers an endless range of soft furnishing ideas from window dressings to furniture and colour selection. Design Inside is a service in which Libby is able to work with Builders and Architects to come up with design solutions which allow a highly workable interior layout and look. Libby is renowned for her colour appreciation as well as ongoing service and communication. She has an amazing sense for style, but always explores her client's taste and effectively amalgamates the two. Her style is sophisticated and classic with a touch of quirk. 6 SUMMER 2014
For more information please visit www.designinside.com.au or call Libby Gumley on 0408 556 847
AT A GLANCE A Breakthrough Treatment Australia Skin Face Body is renowned for their advanced skin treatments and their latest inhouse vascular laser: Vbeam Perfecta is no exception, being the first of its kind here in Geelong. It is currently the most effective laser treatment yet for redness of the face and neck, broken capillaries, spider naevi, rosacea, port wine marks, sun and age spots, as well as mild acne scarring. In addition it is safe and pain free, requiring no down time following treatment. The laser has a special cooling system that helps to minimise discomfort during treatment and reduce side effects by protecting the top layers of the skin. The laser delivers an intense but gentle burst of yellow light to a selectively targeted area of the skin. Depending on the condition being treated, the light is absorbed by blood vessels or pigment in the skin. It can remove or considerably reduce skin conditions, with a series of treatments resulting in a highly noticeable, satisfactory end result. Its results are immediate as well as providing a general firming to the overall condition of the treated area. Australia Skin Face Body is also at the forefront of actively promoting sun safe skin and offer 20 minute skin checks. With the harsh Australian climate this is an annual must do for all Australians hoping to ensure ongoing skin health and keeping skin concerns at a minimum. Australian Skin Face Body is located at: 50 Western Beach Rd, Geelong 5221 2238 or to asfb.com.au
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AT A GLANCE
Salon Sojourn
Luna Tango
Salon Sojourn located in Newtown and Ocean Grove offer their clients a hair experience peppered with not only good quality products and a friendly atmosphere, but also staff who have enjoyed state and national recognition for their talents in the world of hair and beauty. Their current Apprentice: Hayley Parker is set for Brazil in 2015 having won the acclaimed 2014 National Worldskills Awards which was held in Perth earlier this year. Up against 500 others and a gruelling creative schedule of styling, colouring and cutting, her stand out ability along with a sincere passion and drive won her this prized achievement and a no doubt promise of a bold and bright future within the world of hairdressing.
Alli Sinclair is a local Geelong Author with a colourful and interesting life of travel and residing in other countries and immersing and enjoying various cultures. This has helped to form the basis of her wonderful new book: Luna Tango.
HIGH ON AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING
The talent of Salon Sojourn does not stop there with other stylists in both stores offering superior hair skills which have been acclaimed and awarded. Come along and enjoy the Salon Sojourn experience. 2/329 Pakington St, Newtown 5222 5556 Shop 3, 99 Presidents Ave, Ocean Grove 5255 3779
SALON
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BY ALLI SINCLAIR
Set in Argentina, it is based on an Australian women who discovers her family connection to the world of Tango dancing, a world far deeper and more complex than she could ever imagine. It delves into a tapestry of lies and deception, teetering with a touch of sordid, exploding with a passion and soul and imploding with deep betrayal and intense longing. This is a read which promises a compelling storyline throughout every page. Luna Tango is available at all good bookstores and E stores. Look out for Alli Sinclair during February, who will be conducting a Geelong Regional Library Tour. www.allisinclair.com
AT A GLANCE Geelong College
START AT THE VERY BEGINNING
In 2014 The Geelong College introduced an Early Learning class for children who turned three any time during the year, offering an Early Learning program tailored for younger learners. Beginning in Term 2 for 3 year olds or once they turn three, the program, which runs three days per week, helps build their confidence, develops inquisitiveness and supports the children in learning to collaborate. The Reggio Emilia inspired program sees children learning how to learn though an exploration of music, art, motor skills, creative play, both indoors and outdoors, cooking and the natural environment. Head of the Junior School, Chris Dinneen says, “Our Early Learning class for three year olds sets a great foundation for supporting and developing children’s individual and collaborative investigations. Our program is child-focused
and learning centred and is aimed at developing relationships, self-expression, communication, confidence and curiosity, the building blocks of effective learning later on.” Enrolments for the Early Learning class for three year olds are being taken now for a Mid-April start. Fees are comparable to most Early Learning centres. Please contact Deb Fanning at admissions@geelongcollege.vic.edu.au or (03) 5226 3190 for more information.
Geelong's 50th Annual Carols by Candelight Geelong's foremost Christmas event, 'Carols By Candlelight' is once again ready to spring into life this Christmas Eve as it has for the past 49 years. Johnstone Park will come alive with the sounds of people singing and the sight of thousands of candles being waved across the night sky. It will be a fantastic night for the whole family, full of great live music and fun, combined with a real sense of the true spirit of Christmas. Carols by Candlelight's main show commences at 8pm with a superb array of local artists including; The Geelong Tenors - Tim McCallum, Tim Edwards, Duncan Esler and Jamie McGuane, Sassy Soul Sister, The MikMaks, Robert Tripolino, Emily Donoghue, Thomas McGuane, Katrina Micallef, Julie Walter, Shandelle Cooke, Matt Cowdell, Andrew Ward, Sally-Anne Cowdell, Jye Cannon, The Bay City Conchords, Geelong Sings, The Geelong Concert Band and Santa. Jamie McGuane will again compare this year's event. Carols by Candlelight is a chance to celebrate Christmas together. It is truly a Geelong event produced by a local Community Service Club for the community and has a proud history and tradition of supporting and encouraging local artists. The Geelong Carols by Candlelight is presented by the Y Service Club of Geelong. On Christmas Eve Johnstone Park, 8pm - 10pm Free Admission
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AT A GLANCE
Geelong Caravan Camping and Outdoor Living Show
The Therapy of Laughter
The Geelong Caravan Camping and Outdoor Living Show will make a triumphant return to the City of Greater Geelong in 2015. Spanning across four days, 22-25 January at the Geelong Showground’s (Australia Day weekend), the show will be even bigger and better than its inaugural year.
Summer heralds the sounds of laughter by way of festive season celebrations, holidays with family and friends and outdoor entertainment in the warmer weather.
The very latest in caravans, pop-tops, camper trailers, motorhomes and campervans will be on display, plus the hottest trends in tents, camping gear and every outdoor accessory imaginable. From the humble tent peg through to shades, shelters and mosquito nets, if it belongs outdoors it will be on display.
As Australia's foremost laughter therapist and author Phillipa Challis says ‘Laughter is infectious and can revitalise people on even the hottest of days’.
Family entertainment is high on the agenda with free kids' rides all day, plus the highlight Yamaha Super Tank Fishing Show that reeled in the crowds at the 2014 show. The purpose-built 45ft (13.7m) fishing tank features glass sides and is filled with live Barramundi giving spectators a fish eye view of all the angling action. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the show, shaded by leafy green foliage and dotted with picnic tables a "mini mecca of good taste" hosted by purveyors of fine food will prepare tantalizing treats. Boutique wines and beers from Otway Estate, will be on hand to make ensure thirsts are well and truly quenched.
Well-known local business identity Phillipa changes lives and as a result changes people in communities and corporations, by sharing the benefits of laughter in workshops that are guaranteed to get you energised and laughing. With the warmer days of summer approaching, trying to keep healthy and active is important. It can be as simple as enjoying small bouts of regular laughter. While a great diet and good exercise are part of the health equation, laughter boosts your immunity, increases productivity and reduces stress levels.
Adults $15, concession $12, kids under 17 are free. Car parking is complimentary.
The results of participating in a laughter session are felt immediately. Just ask the regular attendees at the Geelong Laughter Club, a free community activity Phillipa spearheads every Saturday at 9am in front of the Eastern Beach swimming enclosure, and are testimony to the saying:
www.caravancampingoutdoorliving.com.au/geelong-show
‘Laughter is the glue that keeps our society together'.
Open daily from 10am. Tickets are available at the gate.
Many people will tell you that participating in a laughter session is the start of a feeling that lasts for days, weeks and in some cases years. Making sure you incorporate a session of laughter therapy in your home and workplace can transform the often energy draining summer months into refreshing invigorating and exhilarating fun-filled days. To book a laughter session for an end of year/start of year work event or a special occasion such as a presentation night or a birthday celebration, Phillipa can be contacted on: phillipa@livelifelaughing.com.au 0418 521 265
The Art of Bradman Don Bradman inspired artworks created by Brian Clinton
Includes family friendly activities “Picnic on the Green” big screen, XBox cricket game.
1 December 2014 — 15 February 2015
www.bradmanart.com
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26 Moorabool Street, Geelong, 3220 Tel: 03 5272 4701 Open: Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat & Sun 10am-5pm www.nwm.vic.gov.au
national wool museum
AT A GLANCE
Christian College GEELONG
Christian College consists of four campuses throughout the Geelong region from Pre-Kinder to Year 12. There are plans of expansion to also include a Surf Coast Campus (PreKinder to Year 7) which are proposed to commence in 2017. A Christian College education strives to develop the spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional capacity of students and to enable them, through example and positive mentoring to become fine citizens with integrity, compassion and social responsibility. Christian College cultivates an atmosphere of care and concern for each student’s character growth and well-being, within a value system and set of priorities derived from the Christian faith. Honesty, integrity, compassion, respect and tolerance underpin the expectations of all interaction within the College program.
Solid foundations in literacy and numeracy are laid at the Junior School through the early year’s structure. This leads on to the engaging and innovative Middle Schools program where students study core consists of English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Christian Education, Physical Education, Health, Information Communication Technology, Music, Sport, Japanese and Indonesian. In addition students are offered a wide range of elective studies to develop new skills and interests before making choices for their future tertiary studies and careers. Christian College are very proud to offer a balanced range of opportunities across all campuses, including VCE, VCE VET and VCAL at the Senior School. Christian College develops an environment to cater for all students and help them find their individual gifts and strengths that will assist them in their ability to build a great capacity to learn. www.christiancollege.vic.edu.au
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MUSIC IN MOTION
a mighty talent, a modest man BY DESIREE JACOBSON
Musician, songwriter, teacher – Clifton Spring’s local; Chris Wilson, is an unassuming and humble man. A distinct absence of ego or pretention belies his prodigious talent and generosity of spirit. Wilson has shared the stage with some of music’s greatest names, including Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello. His contribution to the musical cultural wealth of Australia is immense. Harem Scarem, Crown of Thorns and Chris Wilson and the Spidermen are some of the acts Chris has been involved with over the past 30 years. Born in Richmond, Chris moved with his parents to Alphington “back when it still belonged to the paper mills”. His introduction to music was through his mother, who used to sing light opera and had a deep love of music, often playing 78s of Dame Nellie Melba. His father, an extremely hard working man who worked two jobs, wasn’t musical as such, but, as Chris reflects, his father “Loved country music. Loved Johnny Cash. Every Sunday
morning it was Johnny Cash at full volume”. There were older kids who lived across the road from the Wilsons who had lots of early Fleetwood Mac records and although this was Chris’ introduction to blues music, he didn’t really understand it until he started listening to the Rolling Stones, who in turn influenced Chris in his choice of instrument – the harmonica. Another step in Chris’ musical education was late ‘60’s early ‘70’s radio. Top 40 radio shows featured RnB hits; Australian bands including Carson and Chain were played on the radio; Sunday night on 3XY was Graham Berry playing albums and on Monday nights, seminal ABC radio program Room to Move, hosted by Chris Winter, played import and underground music. At the same time there were underground music papers that came out of Melbourne. Broderick Smith (Carson, The Dingoes) wrote a blues column for the Daily Planet and talked about the SUMMER 2014
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American blues musician, Little Walter. Intrigued, Chris began to “fossick around” to find out all he could about Little Walter. Around this time, Chris happened to chance upon a Channel 7 TV show – Playboy After Dark. Hosted by Hugh Hefner (of Playboy magazine fame), the show featured a musical act each week and this particular week it was American blues harp virtuoso James Cotton. The effect on Chris was explosive – he had never seen the music that he was falling for so deeply, played by those who wrote the songs “It did my head in – I’d never seen American blues music played by the people who made it up”. Although music was Chris’ passion, Chris also excelled at basketball. “I was a sports person….I was playing state basketball. So music was something that I loved and something I was passionate about and obsessed over, but I was also playing sport”. Then Chris arrived at his own personal crossroads. “I finished playing basketball because I was too short to go any further and really my skills were never going to get me further, so I finished and threw myself into music and played and played and played.” Initially too shy to sing, it was when Chris was playing in one of his first bands, the Aces, that he was encouraged to give it a go. The singer of the band, Alan O’Keefe, kept telling Chris “Go on, you sing one, you have a go, go on, you can sing!” As Chris was mentored by Alan O’Keefe, he in turn has mentored countless others. “I am directly influenced by Alan O’Keefe. Because musicians operate in a vacuum most of the time they have to keep telling themselves “Yes, I am good enough.” They have to build a husk around this tiny little kernel of self14 SUMMER 2014
Photograph: Hugo T. Armstrong
Jessica Shepherd Photography
MUSIC IN MOTION
confidence and if somebody says “I like what you do.” at the right time that can be endlessly sustaining. It gives you the confidence to write and perform”. Chris is also passionate about encouraging musicians to grow. “If you don’t have new players coming through, then it’s shot. It’s essential – I don’t think you throw out the old at the expense of the young, I reckon young players have to earn their place, but I also think that there should be a place for them to go to, to rub up against. It’s the same as basketball where you have that as a structure – of new players coming through sport – for us in music you have to have people who have the generosity to let the young players come through and to mentor them through and let them go off on their journey.” After years of playing and touring, Chris and his musician wife, Sarah Carroll (Git, The Tides of Welcome, The Original Cartridge Family), needed to make a lifestyle choice. “Our first son was about to start school and my dad was living in Timboon and his health wasn’t great so we had to make a decision then. Easily the best move we ever made. Our kids have thrived in the fresh air and freedom of living on the Bellarine”. Chris becomes animated when talking about the Bellarine music community and the rich, often undervalued musical heritage that exists in the area. “There is an extraordinary music community down here that has worked tirelessly for young people, including people such as Steve McEwen, Wayne Jury (Blues Boot Camp Director) and Jude McCudden (Ocean Grove Primary). There are a lot of people quietly working for the youngsters to give them a guernsey, to blood them and that in turn feeds into bigger venues or they get up the road to Melbourne or they get out of town. I think it’s very healthy. That’s part of the whole music
MUSIC IN MOTION culture down here. This area hits well above its weight.” He continues “There is something about this area – Jeff Lang, Mia Dyson and Ash Grunwald spent a fair bit of time down here and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard are kicking goals overseas. There are so many bands – Magic Dirt came from around here. It hits well above its weight and it has a great music culture and I don’t know that it’s always been valued as much as it might have been.” “I’ve got bootlegs made at the Eureka of incredible bands, it’s got a real history. It’s a club now but it’s got an amazing musical history and you start to talk to people like Bill at A and B music (Malop St, Geelong) and they start telling you about……John Dallimore, Langford Lever… all the bands that have come out of here and it’s really rich.” “I go down to Allan Kelly, the amp fixer in Newtown and there used to be a guy in a workshop next door who made stockade cases and has the most extraordinary amplifier collection I have ever seen in my life. There are all these pockets of interest that have existed in and around here and still do so. Local Café, Pistol Pete’s Food n’ Blues is really important. He’s got a great ethic. He has young players playing in there alongside veterans of the local scene such as Wayne Jury and Brian Fraser”. “I also believe that what Hugo T Armstrong is doing with the Motor City Music Festival is vital for the local community. It gives Geelong people something to own and be proud of – and because of this, the Festival will be a success.”
Chris and Sarah’s sons, George and Fenn, are now playing their own gigs as well as stepping in when mum or dad need their services. “It’s incredibly gratifying. If they didn’t want to play music, well that’s cool, too. There is nothing quite like playing with your own kid.” says Chris. “And not only that, I would trust either of them to play at any time. I feel at ease because I know they are going to cut it. They’re wonderful”. Chris also teaches harmonica at A and B Music. “I teach all ages and all kinds of people for different reasons. Some people want to get up and play with their mates in the shed on a Saturday night. They want to participate – or they reach a certain point in their life where they want to play a musical instrument”. Both Chris and Sarah are involved directly in supporting their local community. They play countless fundraising gigs as well as mentoring and encouraging young people to play and express themselves artistically. Chris’ love for the Bellarine is clear “It’s four seasons in one day. The gunmetal grey of the bay can turn into brilliant blue the next moment. Watching the weather sweeping across the Bellarine is a joy”. A rich musical heritage, a thriving local scene, a supportive and encouraging environment – and Chris Wilson is at the forefront of it all. Chris Wilson and Band will be appearing at the Motor City Music Festival - March long weekend 2015. More information at www.motorcitymusicfestival.com.au
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A NATURAL APPROACH
a toxic cocktail BY MARY PETHERICK
Every day we are exposed to an array of toxins through the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink and the chemicals we put on our skin. This exposure is unavoidable as two to three thousand ‘new-to-nature’ chemicals are invented and released into the environment every year! In fact environmental chemicals from farming and industry such as pesticides, phthalates, chlorinated phenols and hydrocarbons have been demonstrated to be present in the bodies of 90100% of our population. This culmination of toxins places an increasing amount of pressure on our bodies to render them harmless and expel them. Thus ‘toxicity’, in its various forms, is emerging as a chief cause of chronic health issues. Diets high in processed and junk foods, which also tend to be highly chemically-laden foods, also place a burden on our detoxifying organs. 16 SUMMER 2014
The challenge is, if we continue to expose our body to multiple toxins and if we continue to be deficient in the nutrients that help our body expel these toxins, then our detoxification processes will be compromised. This results in toxins being stored in our tissues, fat and bone or being recycled back into our bloodstream causing fatigue, weakened immune function, poor memory, foggy head, lowered mood, sensitivity to foods, damage to our cells and long term health issues. You don’t have to be spray painters, farmers or industrial chemists to be at risk – in fact, the main source of exposure is in our own homes. Our diet, household chemicals and personal care products rank highly on the list as sources of a variety of environmental pollutants. Within our diet, all food groups can contribute to the load, with animal products a particularly rich source. Much of our food packaging contains chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenol-A (BPA), and bisphenol-S (BPS). Canned
A NATURAL APPROACH
food, bottled water and soft drinks, plastic wraps, disposable plates, cups and plastic bags have all been demonstrated to release hormonal disrupting chemicals, particularly when exposed to heat and microwaving. THE BIG THREE 1. POPs The environmental toxins known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been linked to a spectrum of diseases throughout life. These include pesticides, herbicides, plasticisers and other industrial chemicals. Many POPs are hormone disruptors and due to their lipophilic, or fat-loving nature, may sequester into fat tissue. A report released in 2012 reveals that POPs were first linked to disease in the 1970’s and more and more research has revealed their links to a spectrum of diseases throughout life including learning difficulties, immune disturbances, infertility, breast and prostate cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes, dementia and Parkinson’s disease. 2. PTHALATES Pthalates are the chemicals found in fragrances and plastics. Many of our personal care products, in fact almost anything with a synthetic fragrance, contain metabolic and hormone disrupting phthalates. Your blood level of these compounds will rise with the number of products you are using. Count the number of cleansing, moisturising, concealing, colouring and fragrances, hair and body products you use on your skin every day. The more products you use the higher your phthalate exposure. It is integral to start looking at the ingredient list on your shampoo bottles, your skincare, toothpaste, deodorant, make-up and hair colour, and become informed about what you are actually putting on your skin. 3. HEAVY METALS Toxic metals can also be hormonal-disruptors with aluminium, cadmium, copper, lead and mercury acting as “metallooestrogens” with the ability to bind to the oestrogen receptor and stimulate cell proliferation. Researchers have raised concerns around the potential of a range of chemicals present in cosmetics such as anti-perspirants to have detrimental effects
when applied to the underarm area, close to breast tissue. The concern is around the potential synergistic oestrogenic effects which may occur between aluminium, parabens and phthalates frequently present in these products. Heavy metal accumulation frequently occurs in high risk occupations such as plumbers, welders, miners and renovators. Others may be at risk from personal and household sources such as lead plumbing, aluminium cooking utensils and mercury fillings, or lifestyle choices such as smoking or a high seafood diet. As with other environmental chemicals, heavy metals can lead to a variety of diseases including gut, hormonal and metabolic conditions, but by far the most closely associated are neurological symptoms. DETOX YOUR HOME AND GET EMPOWERED CLEANING PRODUCTS There are hundreds of cleaning products on the market and though useful to clean away dirt and grime, chemical cleaners can also burden our internal and external environment. According to Nicole Bijlsma, building biologist and author of the book, “Healthy Home, Healthy Family”, chemical cleaning products were only introduced after World War 2 with the advent of the industrial revolution. Somehow these chemical industries have marketed to us that ‘all germs are bad and we need to use harsh chemicals to create healthy homes’. Nicole proposes that ‘most of the ingredients used in conventional cleaning products will not only expose you and your family to potentially toxic (and in some cases known) carcinogens, but it becomes impossible for us, the consumer, to assess a product as the manufacturer is not obliged to list all the ingredients on the label’ (only the active ingredients). If you want to be vigilant and know exactly what’s in the products you are using, download the “product material safety data sheet” from the manufacturer’s website. The other point to remember is that the cleaning product industry is largely self-regulated and as a result 80% of cleaning ingredients have never been assessed for their impact on our health. SUMMER 2014
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A NATURAL APPROACH NICOLE'S 'BIG SIX' CHEMICALS TO AVOID
5. d-Limonene
1. Fragrances, air fresheners and deodorisers
This is found in citrus-based products marketed as “natural”. These products often have an orange or lemon on the label and are common causes of skin rashes and may contribute to allergies in children. d-Limonene is a degreaser derived from orange peel but it is in fact a volatile organic compound (VOCs).
Most commercial air fresheners and deodorisers are made from synthetic fragrances or phthalates which do little more than mask your ability to smell and cover up odours. Burning pure essential oils is a much safer option. 2. Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) Bleach gives off toxic fumes which irritates the eyes, lungs, nose, throat and skin. Whilst it is effective in killing bacteria, its wide spread use in products alleged to kill mould is quite perplexing when it does little more than ‘bleach’ the mould so it can no longer be seen. Furthermore it may actually feed some moulds which further accentuates the problem. 3. Ionic and non-ionic surfactants There are many solvents used in cleaning products that may be hazardous to your health. The two most common detergents are sodium lauryl (laureth) sulphate and cocomidopropul betain (cocamide DEA, coco-betaine) both of which are lung, eye and skin irritants. Look for cleaning products that contain ‘alkyl polyglucosides’ as their detergents. 4. Ammonia and its compounds These are commonly used in window, oven and floor cleaners. It is a lung, skin and eye irritant that can trigger asthma.
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6. Dry Cleaning Solvents Conventional dry cleaning involves the use of perchloroethylene or “perc’. Short-term exposure may cause eye irritation, lightheadedness, confusion, lung problems, and temporary liver damage. Chronic exposure may damage the kidneys, liver, and the central nervous system. For more information visit Nicole’s website: www.buildingbiology.com.au THE GREEN CLEANING KIT ALTERNATIVE Gathering your green cleaning kit is easy and very economical with all ingredients being readily available. • Bicarbonate of Soda is a fantastic all-round cleaner. To make a cream cleanser paste just mix 2 parts bicarb to 1 part detergent (look for a detergent that contains the healthy alkyl polyglucosides). • White Vinegar (naturally fermented) has fantastic disinfectant
A NATURAL APPROACH
properties. For a mould spray mix 80% vinegar with 20% water in a spray bottle. Spray the bathroom, leave for 30 minutes and then scrub. • Eucalyptus Oil makes a great spot cleaner. It is also a great silverfish repellent. Wipe out the inside of all your drawers with eucalyptus oil and pop a few drops on cotton balls to leave amongst your clothes. • Lemon juice is a deodoriser and a mild bleach. • Tea Tree Oil cleans, disinfects and is anti-fungal. • Clove Oil is a wonderful shower cleaner as it kills mould spores. Add 6 drops to a spray bottle of water. Spray entire shower, leave for 30 minutes and then scrub. • Microfibre Cloths and Mop to dust, wipe surfaces and floors and clean windows. • Scrubbing brush and elbow grease. For the time-poor, check out Nicole’s Abode Cleaning Product range and rest assured your cleaning products will contain no nasties that may affect you or your family’s health. DITCH THE PLASTIC Plastics are a common source of well-known toxic chemicals such as Bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates, and diethylstilbestrol amongst others. These chemicals can leach from the plastics, especially with heating, and should ideally be avoided. The general consensus is if you are using plastic drink bottles, use once and then discard. And avoid drinking the water out of a plastic bottle that has been left in a heated car. Beware of the clever marketing of “Bisphenol A-Free” plastic range that is being released onto the market. The BPA is generally being replaced with Bispenol-S (BPS) which is an equally dangerous oestrogenic hormone disruptor. The most common sources of BPA & BPS to be aware of are in canned food (the lining of the cans), baby bottles, water bottles, cling wrap, thermal papers (eftpos receipts), plastic dishware and utensils, cosmetics and personal care products.
PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS According to Nicole Bijlsma, the ‘Healthy Home Expert’, by the time you left your home this morning, the average woman would have exposed herself to over 200 chemicals and a man to around 100. Phthalates which are the fragrances used in deodorants, hair spray, perfumes and nail polish can disrupt hormones and research has shown a potential link to breast cancer. There is also a growing body of evidence that parabens found in skin care and other personal products, can affect your hormones and fertility. As many ingredients can be absorbed through the skin, it is important to invest in your health by choosing more natural skincare options. Safe and ethical brands to look out for include the Moo Goo range, Botani skin care, Weleda range, Avalon Organics, Claytime Mineral Makeup, Soleo & Wotnot Sunscreens. The important thing to remember is that we are all inevitably exposed to toxins but we have the power to choose what products we use and expose our bodies to. Choosing all-natural skin care products, avoiding known toxic and oestrogenic plastics and choosing safer household cleaners are easy ways to reduce your personal exposure to chemicals. We are not powerless against toxicity, reducing our toxic load through a healthy diet and lifestyle choices is our best defence.
Mary Petherick is a Health & Wellness Educator and owner of Mammoth Health, a Health Food Store and Professional Clinic consulting in Naturopathy and Remedial Massage. Join Mary’s Health Tribe at www.Mammoth Health.com.au and get empowered with her weekly blogs on the latest professional research and tips on all things health. SUMMER 2014
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OUR OFFSPRING
secondary school: state vs private BY RACHEL MUSTOVIC
As some of us head with our children towards the completion of their primary school years we also head towards the pertinent process of choosing and applying for secondary schools. The pressure of ‘making the right choice’ lurks at the back of our minds, along with the vivid picture of the lifetime of guilt we will suffer if we get it wrong. For some families, the choice is based on geographical access to schools, moral, religious or political beliefs, family tradition, or financial circumstances, they already know where their child is headed. But many families sit in the ‘don’t know’ category. 20 SUMMER 2014
The biggest dilemma of these ‘don’t know’ parents seems to be whether there is benefit in sending their child to a private school rather than a state school. Which will lead to better results, more opportunities and make our children better equipped for the real world? Although the majority of Australians are still educated in the state system, the gap is narrowing. One ABS statistic sums it up: in 1982, 76 per cent of Australian students attended state schools. In 2012, only 65 per cent did. It says a lot about the times we live in that more parents are choosing to pay for private schools despite research finding the most important
OUR OFFSPRING
predictors of academic success are the socio-economic status of the child's parents, the parents' own education levels and a stimulating home environment. Doing a quick survey of friends dealing with this same, ‘soulsearching’ decision, the following seem to be the main issues we wrestle with: A state school will give your child a good basic academic education, some might say, an excellent one, all for free. A state school will also allow your child to mix socially with a wide range of people, a sought-after skill. The state school option will allow the family more financial stability and therefore less stress. The money saved by going through the state system could be used to invest or travel together. Children won’t lose out on extracurricular activities as these can be conducted out of school through local clubs. Children who are inspired and motivated students will remain that way, and do well, no matter what school they go to, and the same will happen with kids at the middle and lower end of the spectrum, Basically who they are and what their family is like, will matter more than where they go. In addition, once they are at University, the advantage of private school diminishes. But will they push your child enough academically? Are the expectations high enough? Will they get in to the ‘wrong’ crowd? Will their lessons be dominated by behaviour management of other pupils? Will the teacher be of high quality and committed? Will the school offer anything outside the classroom? What individual support would your child get? A private school will offer superior facilities, smaller classes and
create higher academic expectations, allowing your child to achieve their potential. With a better teacher to student ratio, your child will get more individualised attention. A private school will offer a whole world of extra-curricular activities, from the Arts, including drama and music productions to sports teams. Your child will be part of a disciplined environment, with the desire to succeed ingrained. Private schools achieve stronger results compared to most government schools and that even when taking into account differences in ability levels and socioeconomic backgrounds of students attending government, Catholic and independent schools, substantial sector differences remain. Attendance at a private school is associated with higher chances of completing school and university even when taking into account differences in socio-economic background. Will the pressure to excel be too much? Will their workload be too heavy for them? Will they come out of school feeling they are entitled to an easy life? Will they have a lack of social responsibility and empathy for those different from themselves? Will the family collapse under the financial stress and miss out of quality time together? Just Google the topic and for as many academic papers stating the pros of one, there are as many supporting the other. So, rather than focusing on private versus state, it may help to think about the questions we should be asking when looking for the right school for our child. In addition, what each school of interest can offer. This also helps us to compare the different state schools against state and private schools against other private schools. Once the choices are narrowed, then it is easier SUMMER 2014
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OUR OFFSPRING to look at whether we believe, for our child, any additional fees would feel justified as money well-spent. It will inevitably come down to what you innately believe are your child’s needs and also, what options there are realistically available in your area. Judging between schools isn't as simple as comparing academic results, although this will, of course, be high on many people’s list of priorities. We need to think about our child and the environment we think they will thrive in. You may feel they need a smaller school to feel nurtured or you may be confident they will thrive amongst the hoards. Your child may breeze through homework expectations or they might struggle to get it all done. You may have a child with a particular strength in the Creative Arts. There may be little options for them at one school but many at another. Or perhaps they are budding Scientists, where the resources at one school stand above the others. Another area to look at is any extra-curricular activities provided by the school, for example, school sports teams. These may or may not be important to you and your child. It’s easy to let your child’s opinion muddy the mix. They should certainly have some say in where they are going to be educated, however, at the age of 11, they aren’t really qualified in making such a choice and will mostly want to go where their friends are going. This may not be a bad choice but what’s good for their friends, may not be right for your child. And let’s face it, although we probably are still in contact with some friends from primary school, the large majority of friends will be from high school and beyond, a concept hard for young
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children to understand and take into consideration. It’s also easy to let others’ opinions sway us. To avoid this, visit as many schools as you can, even if you think you know them already. Schools change quickly and a few years can make a difference in what they offer. In addition, we will have just as much, if not more, influence on our child’s development than any school will. We are the role models for our children and our family values will be what affect our child’s readiness for life. There is added pressure when we are choosing one school for both of our children and potentially then, two sets of fees. There is the question of what if it suits one but not the other? Parents are now coming to feel comfortable in looking for different options depending on their different child’s strengths and weaknesses. Admittedly, for most of us, the preference is for our children to be at the same school, simply from the practical aspect of things. At the end of the day, we could take off some of the pressure from ourselves. Is this decision really that life-changing? If a year or two, or even at Year 10, you feel you’ve made the wrong choice, it’s not too late to change your mind and move your child to another school. That’s the beauty of having so many options available. We have wide choice. So next time there is a lull at a dinner party, spice it up by asking which schools your co-diners are considering. It will undoubtedly provoke some passionate responses.
SCHOLARSHIPS
2016
Academic, Music and Boarding Scholarships for entry into Years 6 to 11 in 2016.
Applications close:
Friday 6 February 2015 Scholarship test and tours:
Saturday 14 February 2015 Character is higher than intellect. A great soul will be strong to live as well as think. Ralph Waldo Emerson
SHAPING THE FUTURE
Find out more at www.geelongcollege.vic.edu.au
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LIFESTYLE & BALANCE
tranquility BY TAMRA MERCIECA
Who would have thought brewing a bowl of tea could be so insightful, so calming and so nurturing? Relationship Therapist and Author Tamra Mercieca discovers how the Japanese Tea Ceremony can transform the way we live life. We all need something to help us unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life; shopping, golf, a beer at the pub. I, however, needed a drug with a little more substance to support a life of hectic work schedules coupled with a busy social calendar. Walking out of my first Japanese tea ceremony with a calm mind and a new perspective on life, I knew I’d found my mind body medicine. The first time I knelt down in the tearoom I was told, The Way of Tea is so much more than an aesthetic amusement or training in etiquette. Melbourne Tea Master Adam Wojcinski explained, ‘The tea ceremony is about restoring self-awareness 24 SUMMER 2014
through letting go of the outer, to seek the inner. It develops one’s character.’ Sen Rikyu, the man with the most profound influence on the Way of Tea, once declared: ‘The Tea Way consists simply of boiling water, preparing tea and drinking it.’ How easy that sounds! Yet, as I learnt, there are firmly established rules for folding the teacloth, grasping the water-dipper, rinsing the tea-bowl, opening the tea-caddy, dusting the tea-scoop, and the movements involved in whisking the powdered green tea or matcha. The strict protocol forced me to engage completely in the task at hand; to be present to life and absorb myself in it without thought or fear of outer, irrelevant circumstances. It was more than an elaborate ritual; it was an interlude that allowed me to reflect on my bare self and find true tranquillity, creativity and beauty, the experience is close to zen meditation.
LIFESTYLE & BALANCE WHY TEA? Tea is actually a very simple pleasure. It has a philosophical background, but at its essence it is an opportunity to experience good company, good food, good drink and good conversation while enjoying selected pieces of art used in the ceremony. Why study the Japanese tea ceremony? Maybe because of it’s rich history, or maybe because when learnt in the traditional way, it is more than an education. It is a journey into oneself. The Japanese Tea ceremony was developed by Zen monks and from the 15th century it became popular with the samurai class, royalty and Japan’s upper class. Tea helped to ward off sleepiness during meditation exercises and strengthen the monks’ concentration. It was also a first rate medicine. Japanese scholar and author of The Book of Tea Kakuzo Okakura says tea drinking became a scared act; a path to self-realisation. The twentieth century, however, with its new political developments and its financial tensions, was to bring about a return to the Tea Way. Once again it was to become a path of self-recollection, a source from which new strength could be drawn, a place of refuge amid the bustle of the material world. TEA BOWL TONIC So what brings one to study on one’s knees for hours a time, learning more than 100 different detailed procedures for
preparing and serving a bowl of tea? Adam Wojcinski says indulging in this age-old ritual helps you think more clearly, relax, become more disciplined and beautify your interactions with others.’ ‘This highly structured activity gets you physically interacting with art rather than gazing at it behind a glass cabinet. You become knowledgeable in ceramics, calligraphy, flowers, poetry, kimono and room design. The ceremony gives you a deep appreciation of nature and the transition of the seasons, and you get to drink the best green tea in the universe!’ This all sounds extremely appealing, but Horst Hammitzsch wrote in his book, Zen in the Art of the Tea Ceremony, that the benefits are far greater than a calm mind and an education of another culture. ‘The Tea Way is designed to bring man to the annihilation of the ego, to pave the way for the ultimate experience of enlightenment. Whisking tea is a Zen practise in the truest sense, and a spiritual exercise leading to the clear understanding of our own deeper nature.’ LIVING BY THE WAY OF TEA In the 11th century the Zen priest Eisai initiated the cultivation of tea in Japan. His famous book about tea opens with the sentence: ‘Tea is the ultimate mental and medical remedy and has the ability to make one’s life more full and complete.’ The idea of learning the Japanese tea ceremony is to become a person of the way both in and out of the tearoom.
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LIFESTYLE & BALANCE
Adam Wojcinski says practiced regularly, the beauty and grace learnt in the tearoom will naturally transfer to a person’s daily life. ‘You will notice an improvement in posture, grace in conduct and speech, care in cleanliness, a marked improvement in emotional intelligence, and fulfillment in everyday life.’ Sen Soshistu describes ‘tasting’ a bowl of tea not just with the tongue, but also with the eyes, nose, ears, and hands. When you utilize all your senses, pouring attention into the interactions you have with yourself and others, you are given the opportunity for self-reflection and the deepening of human relationships. Try it next time you have a cuppa; tasting the liquid with ALL of your senses. Feel the cup in your hands, smell the aroma with your nose, take a moment to really see the liquid in the cup, then taste the elixir. But don’t stop there. Once it’s in your mouth, take a moment to taste all the different flavors and feel how the liquid moves down your throat into your stomach, noticing how it feels when its inside. This is a really great practice in presence. MINDFUL ART The most revered tea master of past history Sen Rikyu is quoted as saying, ‘The most important purpose of tea is to arrive at spiritual enlightenment.’ That could also be said about meditation. Adam Wojcinski says the end of meditation and tea are the same, but the means are different. 26 SUMMER 2014
‘Zen meditation focuses on your true nature while sitting still, silent, and peering into you own mind. Tea is moving meditation. It focuses on your true nature while engaged in a flowing, everyday procedure,maintaining a sincere, hospitable heart to others. Just as you are advised to focus on the breath when assuming the lotus position, so too is the breath a focal point in the tearoom.’ Wojcinski says this is one of the characteristics of the Ueda Sōko Tradition. ‘The actions of the tea preparing procedure are devised so they flow with the in-out flow of the breath. During my morning self-practice I often breathe aloud to ensure my actions are in harmony with a strong, steady flow of breath.’ ‘Learning how to find quietude for your mind and spirit is the aim. But unlike the solitary approach of meditation and yoga, when participating in a tea ceremony you actively pursue this state while interacting with others. The interaction is through refined verbal and physical gestures, and etiquette developed to make your conduct streamlined and beautiful.’ The whole process is not about drinking tea, but is about preparing a bowl of tea from one’s heart. Practitioners are encouraged to apply their learnings to daily life by being present to every moment while noticing the beauty that surrounds us. Perhaps we could all benefit from taking The Way Of Tea approach to life. If you’d like to learn the art of the tea ceremony and how this can be applied to your way of life, contact:
Adam Wojcinski • 0409 353 370 • uedaryumelb.com
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FASHION
through the lense Featured Stock: Eye Gallery Highton, 89 Barrabool Road, Highton ph. 5243 5600 Left to right: Thierry Lasry Therapy $565; Thierry Lasry Therapy $565; Thierry Lasry Barely $565; Oroton Mirelle $325; Sassy Bide Scout $285; Thierry Lasry Lively $565.
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FASHION
through the lense Featured Stock: Eye Gallery Highton, 89 Barrabool Road, Highton ph. 5243 5600 Left to right: Maui Jim Honomanu $374; Serengeti Brando $400; Maui Jim Wiki Wiki $352; Mont Blanc $530; Glarce Lonsdale $300; Serengeti Empoli $350.
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FASHION
through the lense Featured Stock: Eye Gallery Highton, 89 Barrabool Road, Highton ph. 5243 5600 Left to right: Sass & Bide Rani $289; Serengeti Brera $350; Glarce Whitehaven $300; Thierry Lasry Therapy $565; Sass & Bide Sneak Peak $289; Oroton Florentine $325.
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LEISURE & TRAVEL
amazing spain and portugal BY ZOE KNOWLES
Travel writer Zoe is heading over to Spain and Portugal with Insight Vacations on her first fully organised coach tour. Over the following pages she chronicles what she thinks will happen on the trip, and why looking forward to a holiday is just as important as being on one. When I first started working full time one of my colleagues decided to give me a pearl of wisdom “to always have your next holiday booked, that way you’ve got something to look forward to.” At the time I was an over-enthusiastic copywriter who didn’t understand why anyone would ever want to leave work and actually take a holiday. It turns out however that pearl of wisdom is backed by some pretty strong research which shows that looking forward to a holiday delivers a similar increase in happiness to actually being on holiday. The study was published in an academic journal; Applied Research in
Quality of Life and shows that people’s happiness levels go up weeks, even months before their holiday, simply because they are looking forward to time off. So when I was offered the chance to take this trip back in September, of course I said “absolutely yes.” As I write this article it’s 3 days, 11 hours and 17 minutes before I board an Emirates flight to the other side of the world and I can confirm, I am feeling pretty happy. Over the course of 6 nights and 7 days I will be boarding a bus with 25 other media-folk to tour Portugal and Spain with Insight Vacations. It’s a fully planned tour with meals and accommodation planned out for us. Below is a guide to what I’ll be doing and what I hope to see. If you want to know how close my predictions were to the mark, head to our website; www.baylifestyle.com.au and check out my travel blog. I promise there’ll be lots of photos! SUMMER 2014
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LEISURE & TRAVEL
THE ITINERARY Monday 17 November My flight is set to land at midday in Lisbon where I‘ll be met by someone from the Insight Vacations crew. From here I’ll be transferred to home for the next two nights; Dom Pedro Palace which promises “comfort and luxury at the heart of Lisbon” Yes that certainly sounds like it will be more than a home away from home. I’ll have a few hours to explore the area before the first group dinner at 7pm which I plan to use to search for a sim for my phone so that I can call the Morning Crew on BayFM for my daily brag and maybe hunt down a Portuguese pastry.. Then it’s on to the big dinner to meet my fellow travellers at “location undisclosed”. This thought is daunting for me, I can’t look up the menu online, I don’t know what to wear, I don’t know anything at all! For a self-confessed ‘plan-a-holic’ it’s going to be the first step into an entirely different way of holidaying for me. Tuesday 18 November I’ll be up at 6.30am to dial into the team on The Catch-Up on BayFM to tell them all about how the first night went, then it’s down to the dining room for a buffet brekkie and out the door at 8.30am for a solid morning of sightseeing. A lot of Lisbon’s architecturally stunning buildings date back to the 1500s, and I’m really looking forward to snapping some photos and learning about the history of the city. 32 SUMMER 2014
In the evening dinner is at 7.30pm (another location unknown, yikes!) and then off to a Fado show at 10pm. A quick consultation with Google tells me that Fado is melancholy Portuguese folk music with themes of love and loss. Wednesday 19 November At 10am we say goodbye to the Dom Pedro Palace and Lisbon and hop on our supremely cushy tour bus to Evora. The Insight Vacations team tell me that they’ve completely retrofitted the bus so that it has fewer seats to give the passengers more leg room. Before I started researching the trip I must say that the thought of coach style travel did not particularly excite me, but so far everything I have heard is completely shattering my preconceptions. Someone to carry my suitcase everywhere I go, miles of legroom and a Wi-Fi enabled bus? Sounds more like the rockstar life to me! Evora is home to the Capella Dos Ossos or Chapel of Bones which seems like a wonderfully macabre place that I hope is on our list of places to visit today. As the name suggests the walls are lined with bones, but not just any bones, the bones of monks and nuns. Creepy… Thursday 20 November Today I have options – I can stay and explore Evora or head up to Monsarez and have lunch at an olive mill with the tour director. If I haven’t seen the Capella Dis Ossos already, I think that’ll be on my hit-list today, otherwise it’s off to Monsarez – the fortified town where cars are not allowed!
LEISURE & TRAVEL
Friday 21 November Today we cross the border into Spain to head to our final location – Seville. Looks like it’s back on the super cushy bus with its wifi and oodles of leg room…. The travel forums tell me Seville is full of beautiful old buildings, amazing new architecture and ladies in pretty polka-dot dresses. The afternoon promises a tour of the town followed by what I can only imagine will be a delicious Spanish dinner. Tonight we’re staying at the Meliá Sevilla – a stunning hotel with marble floors, a pool bar and Dreamax mattresses. I am genuinely impressed with the quality of hotels that have been selected for this tour. Putting your faith in someone else’s hands is tough but Insight Vacations seem to be getting it right at every stop!
beautiful architecture, but I am hoping to steal some time for a shop. The city is known for its unique leatherwork which might make it a great place to find presents for family. The evening’s schedule is “a 7pm show and 8.30 dinner.” The ambiguity of this description would normally make me nervous, but so far Insight Vacations have surprised and delighted every step of the way, so I am excited to find out what this show might be! Sunday 23 November Off to the airport for an epic 30 hour commute time back to Australia. Note to self: remember to pack dry shampoo!
This morning I’ll have an hour between my call with the CatchUp and leaving the hotel and I plan to spend every minute of it at Breakfast. The hotel breakfast buffet looks absolutely amazing, with a huge range of options including Spanish omelettes and churros – I must try everything!
To have your own Amazing Spain and Portugal experience: Insight Vacations’ 9-day Amazing Spain and Portugal escorted journey visits Madrid, Granada, Seville, Lisbon and Salamanca. Priced from $1,975 per person, twin share (single supplement starting from $370) including eight nights’ accommodation in luxury, centrally located hotels, an experienced Tour Director, Signature Experiences and priority access, business class legroom and smaller groups, free Wi-Fi and airport transfers. Departures are available throughout 2015.
The day sees us heading to Cordoba – a city to the north east of Seville. The town has more amazing historical sites and
For more information visit www.insightvacations.com or call 1300 301 672.
Saturday 22 November
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Can you say “I wear eyewear from eyewear on pako?” 1a yuille street geelong west p: 03 5222 5353
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A JOYOUS
DAY
Styled table and product range: three oh two willows 302 Pakington St. Newtown
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Styled table and product range: Townhouse Living www.townhouse-living.com.au
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Styled table and product range: high eight home & living, www.higheight.com.au
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CHRISTMAS
a time of giving Featured Stock: The Happy Shoe Shop, 19c Rutland Street Newtown, ph. 0402 028 799 From left to right: Jill Main NZ designer aluminum cuff bracelet $44.95; Reed diffuser by Unmatched Candles $44.95 Throw pillow cushion cover from $24.95 - $44.95.
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CHRISTMAS
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CHRISTMAS
a time of giving Featured Stock: 3oh2 Willows, 302 Packington Street Newtown, ph. 5229 9230 From left to right: SOH luxury copper candle $69.00 each; Kate Spade insulated cups $38.95 each; Bemboka luxurious towels made in Portugal: bath towel $74.00, bath mat $74.00, hand towel $34.00 and face washer $12.00 available in a range of colours.
SUMMER 2014
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CHRISTMAS
a time of giving Featured Stock: Schots Home Emporium, 299 Melbourne Road, Nth Geelong ph. 1300 693 693 From left to right: Cocktail Shaker $40.00; Whiskey Glasses set of two $50.00; Toiletries Bag $59.95; Classic Tumbling Blocks $29.95; Credit Card Multi Tool $40.00; Bee Gardner $29.95.
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CHRISTMAS
a time of giving Featured Stock: Beach Tree Nursery, 1135 Surf Coast Highway, Torquay 3216, ph. 03 5264 1771 From left to right: Wire Drop tealight sml $24.95 lg $34.95; Retro Jute placemat $34.95; Citrus Soaps from $9.95; Botanical tealight holder $34.95; Pineapple Soap $14.95; Enamel Lantern, various colours $44.95.
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CHRISTMAS SWEET DELIGHTS
Mini Mud Christmas Trees Makes 36 500g CADBURY White Chocolate Melts 1 cup pure cream 125g butter, chopped 100g CADBURY Dark Baking Chocolate broken into pieces 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup CADBURY Bournville Cocoa 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup dark rum or brandy 2/3 cup flour 1/4 cup SR flour 1 egg, lightly beaten Green food colouring, for decorating Christmas cake sprinkles, for decoration Silver cachous, for decoration
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Method: Melt together white chocolate and cream in a bowl placed over gently simmering water, ensure to stir occasionally, until liquid becomes smooth. This will then require to stand at room temperature for two hours followed by placement in the refrigerator to firm consistency for granache piping. Place butter, dark chocolate, sugar, cocoa, water and rum in a saucepan allow to melt together stirring gently and occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Sift flours and then whisk through the egg, mixing well. Transfer complete mixture to a jug and pour into 36 paper lined mini muffins pans. Bake in a fan forced oven at 180째C for 20 minutes, or until cooked. Stand for 10 minutes and then transfer on to a wire rack for cooling. Color ganache mixture with green food coloring and spoon into a piping bag fitted with a 1cm star nozzle. Pipe a simple Christmas tree shape onto each cake and then decorate. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until required.
RECIPES
Christmas Ice Cream 600mls thickened light cream 200mls milk 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste 1/2 cup (110g) castor sugar 80mls water 7 large egg yolks 250g mixed dried fruit 50mls orange juice or orange liqueur Finely grated rind of 1 orange 100g roasted slithered almonds or chopped brazil nuts Method: Heat half of the allocated cream, with milk and vanilla in a non-stick saucepan, stirring often cooking until very hot. Do not however boil. Set aside. Place the sugar and water into a small saucepan and constantly stir until the sugar dissolves. Once sugar dissolves, simmer for a further 2 minutes. Place egg yolks into a mixing bowl, and with blender,
whisk until quite thickened, reduce blender speed. Add syrup and warm milk mixture. Then add the remaining cream. Mix until well combined. Remove to a large jug and refrigerate overnight. The mixture will flatten and lightly separate once chilled. Combine the dried fruit, orange juice or liqueur and grated rind. Stir well and cover. Prior to churning the ingredients, return the chilled mixture to the mixing bowl and whisk for 2 minutes. This is then best to mix with a blender that utilizes an ice cream attachment. With the machine churning the fruit and liquid, add the whisked custard mixture and churn for 20 minutes or until its consistency resembles soft serve. Add the dried fruits and nuts and churn for a further 5 minutes or until the mixture is very thick. Remove the mixture to a container, cover and freeze for 4 hours or until firm. Allow to soften for 5 minutes before scooping. This recipe makes approximately 1.2 litres of ice cream. Homemade ice cream should be eaten within 5 days of making. SUMMER 2014 45
RECIPES
Easy Christmas Eggnog Makes 4-6 drinks 375mls full cream milk 300mls thickened cream 1/4cup (125g) castor sugar 125mls brandy 125mls medium dry sherry 1 cinnamon stick, snap into two pieces 2 cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 5 egg yolks 1/4 cup (60g) castor sugar, extra Extra cinnamon and nutmeg, for serving.
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Method: Place the milk, cream, caster sugar, brandy, sherry, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg into a saucepan. Simmer gently, stirring constantly, until sugar has dissolved and mixture is very warm. However do not boil the mixture. Transfer the mixture to a jug, removing the cinnamon and cloves. Place the egg yolks and additional sugar into your blender. With the whisking utensil, blend for 20 seconds. Whilst whisking, remove the ingredient cap and pour in the hot milk mixture. Blend for a further 15 seconds. Serve immediately and sprinkle with desired cinnamon and nutmeg. This mixture can also be chilled. To serve, simply return the mixture to the blender and blend on whip for about 10 seconds or until light and airy.
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Left: All tiles from The Tile People Geelong, Above: Mozzano rimless bath available from The Tile People Geelong.
Key Note Trends: Bathrooms Written by Trudi Bondarenko
Bathrooms are distinctly a notable inclusion of every home. They are no longer a practical room simply positioned and stated for our personal needs. They are now a reflection of our busy lives and represent an in-house sanctuary, a room of contemporary style and relaxation. They are also a reflection of us and our own style and with the style directions of this well utilised room consistently becoming more creative in appearance, edgier in style and limitless in finish options, the simple bathroom concept has stepped forward as now being a high end focus room within every contemporary Australian home.
The direction of home style moving into 2015, promises to continue to make texture a key feature. Bathrooms are no exception to this design rule with timber and timber veneer surfaces paving dominance in leading edge trends for 2015. These taking a natural step from their stone predecessors which will still feature boldly both in bathroom styles and throughout various home surfaces. Luxury bathing is key with the home spa making a comeback in the form of luxury round definition and complimentary contemporary tapware. Two person showers with side jets or SUMMER 2014 49
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massage jets are also taking favour offering greater affordability for the design conscious. Bathroom tiling styles are now converting bathroom areas to full wet areas with tiling featuring wall to ceiling and wall to wall. Feature texture or interest tile walls are also prominent features and all things black in tiles is the key trend moving forward. Industrial features and lighting are still prominent and copper or bronze is another key style in all things bathroom and accessorizing. For home builders and renovators, Geelong continues to deliver in regards to choice and up to date design. The Tile People Geelong located in West Fyans St, Newtown are definitely no exception to this rule with an amazing array of contemporary and design driven tile selections as well as a complete bathware
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and tap range. They continue to search and import from around the world as well as sourcing locally and bring the latest choices to the Geelong market. The choice is vast and it is all available in one store keeping the process for clients simple and effective in achieving their end specifications. Staff are another key attribute within this business being highly versed in styles and trends, as well as in building, engineering and design. Their focus and aim is to create beautiful, creative, and functional spaces for their customers. This is a unique business which promises style, choice and knowledge and definitely delivers on every account. www.facebook.com/thetilepeople www.pinterest.com/ttpgeelong
CUSTOM MADE REFINED RECYCLED LOCAL
BOMBORA
Lorne Point recycled Messmate bed $3600
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Queenscliff Couch, recycled Spotted Gum, Jarrah and Red Iron Bark outdoor rated couch, price starting from $4000; Breamlea recycled Victorian Ash outdoor table setting $3900; Winchelsea recycled Messmate coffee table $2200.
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Grove recycled Messmate Console $2500; Southside dining table with Red Iron Bark top and black powder coated legs $4300; Childers TV cabinet $3390.
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a story with a difference BY TRUDI BONDARENKO
Storybook Designer Homes offer a completely unique building experience for both owner builders and those with a designated builder seeking innovative architecture, a large portfolio of design options and a highly cost effective end building project. The homes are largely varied in design from a more traditional style in design features and layout through to a more modern and contemporary look and feel as well as being able to vary those styles to fit individual requirements. Storybrook homes offer a vast range of high quality Australian Kit Homes. The Storybook emphasis is on design. This largely consists in solving site concerns, construction costs exceeding budget, utilizing land size effectively, positive energy efficient designs, effective landscaping around the home and a highly appealing aesthetic finish both inside and out. Every design is 54 SUMMER 2014
customisable and tailored to the client’s individual needs. Storybook Homes are well equipped in catering to various specialist requirements including bushfire zoned areas and building limitations, sloping land sites, energy efficiency, owner participation in completing various rooms, parts of the home and small accommodation style facilities. They offer a high service in ongoing support including technical support for both their clients and allocated tradespeople. In addition, they offer detailed project budgets so as clients are provided with transparency in costings and no surprises in the end financial building outlay. With years of experience in passive solar design, energy efficiency is a high priority for Storybook and features within many of their designs as well as being a priority for any new or varied home designs.
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As they are all things in appealing, high quality kit homes without the high cost association, they also provide the latest in cost effective, low maintenance materials currently available within the marketplace.
the Storybook Home option? Their promise is based on unique and varied designs, large choice and cost effectiveness as well as support from the start to the end of every client they service.
With so many builders offering the same service and singing a similar tune in regards to design and quality, why not look at
Take a look at the storybook story and that will no doubt be where the happily ever after story ends.
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Alpine 7 piece steel setting, includes 6 chairs and table, $199
the great outdoors Summer is here at our doorsteps and so too do our outdoor areas beckon for our attention and enjoyment. These are no longer seen as simply an add on to our homes, they are now a space of slick, edgy and contemporary design and come in a variety of styles including alfresco, courtyard and open plan. They are an extension of our indoor spaces and are a favoured area for entertaining in particular enjoying a
barbecue or a more casual dining experience. Faggs Mitre 10 Geelong understands our love of the great outdoors and this summer offers outdoor dining for every outdoor space and every outdoor budget. Their styles from barbecues to outdoor accessories through to outdoor dining and lounging offer a variety of styles to suit every taste and ensure an endless summer of great outdoor summer entertaining. SUMMER 2014 57
4 burner deluxe island BBQ with side burner, $1499
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think outside the box Looking for a new home with unique style? Talk to Pivot Homes, the leaders in Design and Construction. > NEW DISPLAY HOME NOW OPEN < 17 Lampard St, Warralily Coast Display Village Surf Coast Highway, Armstrong Creek
HIA Victorian Best Custom Home $500k - $1M HIA regional Home of the Year 2014 HIA regional Display Home of the Year 2014 Talk to one of our friendly Consultants today > ph 5243 2350
Visit our website and see the difference www.pivothomes.com.au
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ABODE Faggs Mitre 10 ensures every space is catered to with small bbq ranges which are high on quality and retro style through to large contemporary bbq style which can cook for the heartiest of groups and ensure a gourmet dining experience every step of the way. Outdoor tables can cater for two and upwards and for lovers of timber there is a vast selection, aluminium is another outdoor option in many styles. Add outdoor accessories to ensure on trend style and comfort and the outdoor zone is complete and ready to enjoy this summer. Mitre 10 1-9 Barwon Terrace, South Geelong. www.faggs.com.au
4 burner coloured BBQ with side burner, $399
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FITNESS
eat...train...love BY MOLLY PERRETT
THE HEALTHY TRUTH It’s that time of the year and we are well and truly amongst the silly season. If it’s not a Christmas party, it’s a neighbour’s BBQ, a catch up with friends or simply a celebration of good cheer. It’s without doubt a great time of the year, but when that gorgeous summer dress we brought online and absolutely love is a little tighter than comfortable, then we think it may be time to ask for help, just in time for summer. Brooke Gillingham, a qualified Personal Trainer and Health Promoter offers some pertinent advice to ensure we are prepared to take on the silly season, with the right healthy attitude. Firstly we want to get the concept of the right food for everybody, and in Brooke’s opinion, the easiest way is to understand that ‘food is fuel for your body.’ Brooke explains, ‘Exercise burns the fuel provided by food to strengthen your body.’ It is vital that everybody should consider their individual
goals and regime before they decide what their day-to-day diet consists of. The ‘nutritional and energy requirements’ will vary for each individual and their goals, which is why goal setting is a must. Are you exercising to lose weight or maintain weight? Or are you training for hypertrophy (muscle growth)? Brooke says that while there are differences in what you should consume, ‘eating fresh, whole foods are essential to ensure your body works effectively and efficiently. Fuelling your body with the right food’ is vital. The next step to getting food consumption right is all about quantity. ‘Consuming the right amounts ensures repair, growth and heightened results when exercising.’ Getting this right may seem hard, but there are various nutritionists available at your local gyms and health clubs. Gaining personalized advice for diet quantity will provide you with the knowledge to shed those extra kilograms, and not over indulge during the silly season. SUMMER 2014
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Be cautious about your nutritional habits because there is a fine line. Those who aren’t properly informed about consumption levels often go by the ‘work off what you eat’ concept. Brooke informs us about RMR – Resting Metabolic Rate and the importance it plays in your nutritional habits. ‘RMR is the amount of energy your body requires to function while resting.’ As mentioned previously consumption levels affect the repair and growth of your muscles. Brooke explains that ‘it is essential to ensure your body has not only enough energy to function, but to repair and grow after you exercise.’ The hard truth, it’s up to you and only you to control this. ‘Your ability to achieve this depends on how you fuel your body’. It’s okay to want to burn off those calories you drank in that cider with dinner, but Brooke reminds us ‘it is important to look at food as fuel that nourishes your body with nutrients and minerals.’ To put it simply if what you put in your mouth is not going to fuel your body correctly, then ask yourself is it worth it? Do yourself a favour and listen to your body, take some advice from Brooke and ‘work out what is best for you.’ Your exercise regime plays a big part in your nutritional habits and another factor to consider is what should you be eating and when? Brooke reminds us to stay true to ourselves and ‘do
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what works for your body.’ Depending on your schedule and when you are most active, will depend on when your bigger meals take place. Brooke likes to stick by the saying ‘eat like a King at Breakfast, Queen at lunch, and like a pauper at dinner.’ She says ‘it makes sense to fuel your body with the majority of energy early on in the day so it can be used throughout the day.’ This is more easily said than done; between running to the gym and then to work we know incorporating these diet habits can be difficult. Being prepared for your meals is the key success. As fuelling your body pre and post workouts is necessary. For the early bird trainers, it can be hard to stomach something before you head off to workout. Brooke says you need to ‘give your body time to digest. If you are not a big eater in the early morning, it is important to provide your body with some form of energy before you workout.’ This energy could be grabbing a banana when you wake up or having a cup of juice, but it is the post workout breaky that will assist your body’s metabolism. We all need to ensure we prepare a big healthy breaky as ‘having a nutritious breakfast post workout will help refuel and repair the body.’ Alternatively, those who are evening trainers the same goes, while most don’t like working out with a full tummy it is the post-workout
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dinner that needs to be prepared carefully. It is ‘a high protein dinner or shake that is recommended to repair the muscles.’ Preparation and planning is the key, once you know your training schedule and the types of training you will be doing, you can then implement your meal plan. There is an endless source of information regarding nutrition out there, so as mentioned throughout stay true to your body and implement what works best for your goals. This brings the question what should our food pyramid look like? In Brooke’s opinion we should ‘eat a rainbow of fresh fruits and vegetables, and high protein food sources.’ Consumption of ‘too many processed foods containing empty calories are detrimental to your training.’ It is a great thing to create yourself a food pyramid that agrees with your body. That way when you plan your meals you have your list of ingredients that have the okay. These ‘nutritious and fresh foods are the best for you because they supply your body with the vital nutrients your body needs.’ For some, supplements are required on top of the food pyramid bible. While Brooke admits ‘It is hard work to eat a perfect diet’ she eases our minds when she explains that ‘supplements are great to obtain what your body needs easily.’ It is important to note that not
all nutrients can be sourced through supplements; there are some nutrients that are vital to be obtained via food sources only. A popular supplement that many use alongside their fitness and nutritional regime is protein. Brooke explains that ‘proteins are the building blocks of life. Muscles are made of protein, which makes this a good supplement for your body.’ There are many proteins available so make sure you consult with a specialist as to what will be suited to your body type and goals. Considering all the factors that are involved with nutrition and exercise, can be quite overwhelming. Keep these in mind during the silly season, but don’t let them rule your life. Just remember everything is okay in moderation and ensure your exercise regime doesn’t take a back seat to social activities. Rest is also equally important. Exercising a tired body can add unwanted stress to your body. Brooke believes we shouldn’t consider exercise and diet as a chore; instead opt for nutritious foods that we know will refuel our bodies for energy to allow for more enjoyment out of exercise and life in general.
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GARDEN STYLE
the summer garden WORDS & IMAGES: ANDREW LUCAS
With summer well and truly here, it’s time to skip the supermarket and have a go at growing your own veggies. Keeping a garden thriving during the driest season can be tricky and, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, Geelong and the Surf Coast have a 60% chance of having a hotter than normal summer this year. So read on for some tips on keeping your garden alive while you’re relaxing at the beach. WATER Plants needing water in summer goes without saying, they can’t take up nutrients without water, so by watering deeply every few days in summer, they’ll enjoy a drink and a feed. Watering is best done in the morning and evenings as it keeps water evaporation to a minumum. 64 SUMMER 2014
MULCHING By adding a good 5cm layer of mulch on top of your soil, you will protect your garden’s surface from baking, ensure maintainence of soil moisture and eventually provide organic matter to feed your plants. Pick the mulch that matches your garden; eucalyptus mulch is great for natives, but productive gardens prefer nutrient dense and compostable mulches such as pea straw, lucerne and sugarcane. It’s a good idea to water your garden very well prior to applying your mulch and continue to water less often but more thoroughly, making sure the water is penetrating through the mulch into the drip zone of your plants.
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Surviving a heatwave, step by step In January 2014 temperatures reached into the mid 40’s, which played havoc with my kitchen garden, despite being well watered. Both my lemons and pumpkins were badly sunburnt…ouch! So in preparation for more heat waves this year, here is a little DIY project which provides total protection
against the hottest sun. This has been utilised in four raised veggie beds measuring around 1.2m square and the most vulnerable crops which suffer most in the searing hot weather have been planted (picture 1).
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2. Fasten four galvanised saddles designed to hold 25mm pipe to the four inside corners of your garden bed. 3. Using long lengths of 25mm poly pipe (about 2.8m) place them in the saddles and bury them slightly into the soil until secure. Your garden bed will look like a dome tent without the fly. 4. Tie the pipe together securely using garden tie or zip ties. 5. Mulch around your plants and water well. Using shade cloth or hessian, cover your veggie patch.
Note: The poly pipe ‘dome’ can be used to support other coverings such as netting to keep cabbage butterflies and birds out of your veggie patch. In winter, a clear poly covering can be used to create an instant greenhouse to extend the growing season. Now, the most vulnerable of your veggie patch are well and truly protected through the unpredictably hot summer months ahead and well catered for the cold snaps of the winter season. Happy preparing!
6. Fasten the cover securely using self tapping screws, these are quick to fix and remove. SUMMER 2014 65
THE FINAL WORD
the final word BY ROXIE BENNETT
As we draw closer to the end of one year and the beginning of another it’s a great time to reflect and look toward the year that’s coming up! I’m not one for making resolutions but I think I need to at least try to find some more time to relax and allow my brain to escape the daily grind in 2015! 2014 has been a big year in our household for significant celebrations - a wedding, an 18th and a 21st. Owning an event management company means that none of this is done by half! Each one a production in its own right with the wedding probably the lowest key of them all! The other big influence on our year has been the completion of VCE for my daughter Sabrina. Brain draining, exhausting, frustrating, scary….I think it was hard on her as well! Don’t get me wrong, anyone who knows me will tell you that I love being busy but this year there’s been so much going on I’ve hardly had time to stop and take a breath, let alone give my brain a rest! I’m not sure if it’s an ‘age’ thing but I’m feeling just a bit exhausted and very keen for the summer break and some down-time. I have it all planned, my days will be spent lazing next to the pool with a book in hand and my brain will escape into the stories, lives and dramas of others… I’m determined to get through as many books as I can so I won’t feel guilty for not finding time to read even one book this year! We were so lucky to welcome Maryanne Hyde to the Bay Lifestyle line up on BayFM this year. A highly regarded book 66 SUMMER 2014
reviewer, Maryanne also put together the inaugural National Non-Fiction Writers Festival in Geelong in August for Deakin University. She knows her books and devours them much the way I devour coffee! In gulps and with great enjoyment! Maryanne reviewed a number of books including some old favorites that deserve another look such as ‘The Dressmaker’ by Rosalie Ham that’s currently being made into a movie featuring Kate Winslet and is being filmed in the Geelong area. We looked at new releases such as ‘Life or Death’ by best-selling Aussie crime writer; Michael Robotham and ‘The Collected Works of AJ Fikry’ by Gabrielle Zevin which is a delightful story about the life and loves of an eccentric bookseller. She also shared some amazing non-fiction books like the latest book by Tara Moss, ‘The Fictional Woman’ and ‘The Temporary Bride’ by Jennifer Klinec, which explored the tale of one woman’s journey discovering food, culture and love in Iran. Right, I now have my stack of books at the ready, the sunscreen and wide brimmed hat are in arms reach and I’ve learned how to put the phone on silent. Now all I have to do is wait for the moment I can close the lap top and give myself over to a couple of weeks of ‘me-time’ – it’s certainly about time!
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