May | liquidlifeandleisure.com.au
Hire A Kombi PAGE 4
NEW AGE Page 10
FREELANCE AERIAL
Page 24
COURAN COVE
Page 34
WHAT ARE CRYPTOCURRENCIES AND WHY ARE THEY THE FUTURE OF INVESTMENTS?
Cryptocurrencies and blockchain
technology are both shaping the way the world will operate across nearly
every industry. In spite of their global
impact, there is still much uncertainty and skepticism about what both
technologies actually do, and why it has taken so long for their
implementation in light of their
potential. There are many arguments that circulate the online community
about this topic, but I will try to break it down for you.
The first and most well-known
cryptocurrency built on blockchain
technology in 2009 is called “Bitcoin”. While the essence of Bitcoin is that it is a type of digital currency, that was
never its true intended purpose. The
coin itself is not the important part of
the technology, but the trust machine it fuels. Let me explain.
Would you trust your entire financial future on one person or company, say the Government or a bank? Most people would scoff and say
absolutely not! Despite our horror at such an idea however, this is the
reality for the type of centralized world we live in. All financial decisions are
ultimately up to the governments and banks. What blockchain and Bitcoin do is create a decentralized space
where no one power is in control of information or “currency”.
How does this work?
revolutionary type of thinking, it took
withdrawals, deposits or any type of
industry to understand how important
personal information on their servers.
technology could be used. Due to the
activity happen, there can be
many cryptocurrencies, big
everyone on the system can be
want the public to go near it as it
stored in one place.
Bitcoin was branded a black market
store information, but does not
because it was easier to shun
network of computers. All information
explain the potential uses for it, or
When you use a bank and make
awhile for people outside the tech
transaction, the bank stores all of this
and widely implemented the
That is why when “hacks” or criminal
autonomous nature of blockchain and
widespread meltdowns as anyone and
companies and agents in power didn’t
affected since the information is
would remove power from them.
The blockchain acts like a ledger to
currency, and social media ran with it
depend on one entity, rather a
something misunderstood than try to
is stored in an encrypted form, which
how it could empower people.
recipient and sender can make sense
When you use blockchain technology
is virtually unhackable, and the data
are next to nothing and the money is
legitimacy, which minimizes criminal
don’t like this as it is a better model
means that no-one except the
of the information. The encrypted form
to send money for example, the fees
can be publicly accessed to check
sent virtually instantaneously. Banks
activity.
than they currently have and it would
Why wasn’t this a big deal back in 2009?
It was, but because it was such a
take business away from them.
WHY PLAAK IS A GREAT INTRODUCTORY TO THE CRYPTOCURRENCY AND BLOCKCHAIN WORLD
In the last article about cryptocurrency and blockchain I tried to break-down their history as well as why they are the future of investment. This was a mammoth task, and may have left
some people more confused. After years of research I still find the
technology overwhelming because of how powerful its impact on the world is and will be. There are so many
applications being built on blockchain that will empower people in their
everyday lives that it would make your head spin. Companies are clamouring to try and fill gaps in the market, or better an aspect of an existing
application that users are just left scratching their head about
which is the best or where to go.
PLAAK is a visionary company that is coming out with an ecosystem of applications that will act as a
revolutionary toolkit of blockchain
applications that address solutions to
problems. Some of these applications include an exchange, investment
fund app, freelance app and health
app. Each of these applications will
link together with one secure login, so users don’t have to use the
applications of 20+ companies as
between the physical and
online in a seamless manner. The
team understand how overwhelming the cryptocurrency and blockchain
technologies can be, and have placed an emphasis on making everything
easy to use and understand so that anyone of any knowledge level can
partake in the potentially trillion dollar market.
Their exchange which will be
launched soon will be the best Australian decentralized
cryptocurrency exchange. They will
have fiat capability, enabling users to deposit money that they have to buy crypto-coins easily. They will also
have low fees, many coins to choose from and fast transaction times. For
those who do not know how to keep coins safe, they already
have a wallet attached to the
exchange that is private and secure.
app which linked to the wallet, will use the amount you choose to put in and do the hard work for you. All you will have to do is choose which portfolio (low-high risk) you want to invest in and watch your assets grow.
What can I spend the coins on? PLAAK’s freelance app, health app,
shop and future debit card will make spending easy. The freelance app allows for the purchase of
professional services such as tradies. The health app in the future will focus on health services. The shop
has clothing that can be bought with
coins straight from your wallet and in the future a debit
card will give you the ability to buy
anything as you would a normal debit card, but using your digital assets!
Provided by Plaak
Only the user will have
access to their digital wallet.
No idea how to invest? That’s okay!
PLAAK will also have the investment
everything they need will fall under the PLAAK branch. They are even
implementing biometric security,
which will make their entire ecosystem virtually impenetrable!
The ethos of PLAAK is to help
everyday people and bridge the gap
Facebook.com/letsdisrupttheworldrogether Twitter @getplaakingnow www.plaak.com
Tim Kirby
nal approval.
Hire A Kombi is run by George and Alyce with their children Mae and Kim on a small 'kombi' farm on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. They are one of the only self-drive kombi hire companies in Victoria with a team of 1 transporter, 4 campers and a 1965 beetle. They're all 1970 models, have names and personalities that everyone loves for different reasons. Their customers drive to their farm in their own car or catch public transport down and then take off on their adventures and are able to cruise along the Great Ocean Road, head over on the Sea Road Ferry to the Mornington Peninsula and travel up the coast or head inland to the Grampians. Alyce said our kombi's can go anywhere throughout Australia as long as they stick to our daily limit of 200km per day. We put this cap on so that our kombi's continue to come back in good condition and if they tried travelling any further than this we feel it would deduct from the experience we want to deliver. "It's not the destination but the journey," Alyce said.
Hire A Kombi was recently honoured to have musician Kim Churchill take a 5 day trip in their Westfalia 'Clancy' and he said what he loved most about this family business was the dedication they have to your adventure. "The kombi vans are beautiful and give you the timeless iconic feel. The ability to venture off into the rugged wilds of the Great Ocean Road, find a beautiful spot and create your little home is wonderful! It felt liberating and like every moment should be captured in an old Polaroid and pinned to cork board. They've created a world where you not only get a beautiful adventure, but an opportunity to do something that will stand boldly and beautifully in your memory. It's so freakin worth it!"
Dual Voyage
Alyce and George met when she bought a kombi from him when she lived in Queensland and after a 4 month restoration, Applejack was delivered to her and she travelled the coast of Australia solo. "We can't imagine a life without kombi's. They make every trip, even if it's to get milk a more joyful experience, said Alyce. We are extremely lucky the majority of our clientele are coming to take a break from their busy lives so when they return and tell us it's one of the most relaxing holidays they've had and that they want to buy a kombi we feel like we have made a positive impact on a life and that's why we do this crazy business."
Dual Voyage
Instagram: @hireakombi Facebook: Hire A Kombi Website: hireakombi.com
MAY 2018
HIRE A KOMBI | NEW AGE | FREELANCE AERIAL | COURAN COVE
PLAAK 2
LENNOX HEADS 14
Rethink the way you invest
The best of Lennox and the region
BAYSIDE BOAT CANOPIES 38
TASSIE WRAPPED UP 24
Introduction to their business/services SILWY GLASSES 62 Find out more about magnetic glasses YACHTSHARE 59 Making boat ownership affordable
COMMONWEALTH GAMES 12 Wrap up on the event BRAND BOOST
42 Check out the months best products RECIPES 64 Travelling recipes from "Ziggy"
Freelance Aerial snap up some great shots from Tassie
from the editor...... Welcome LL&L Legends What a great Easter Break we had, spending it in the beautiful Northern NSW region, lapping up places such as Liquid Life & Leisure Team Lennox Heads, Byron Bay, Ballina and Lismore to name a few. Editor
Hayley Taylor The beaches idyllic, Lake Ainsworth inviting, coastal walks crisp of a morning, seeing sunsets, sunrises, a spot of Director fishing, main mode of transport our treadlies, kids outside Ben Charity from 6.30am until 10pm, filling their days with swimming, fishing, board games, card games, sup, kayaking, riding National Sales Manager bikes, spot light, and repeat. The mostDan we Charity had a chance to say to them as they hang out with their friends, is have you got sunscreen on? With a quick reply “yes” Have you re Design applied sunscreen? “Yes” And apart from these word Flourish Designone Studio answers, we would also get “I am hungry” or “can we have Liquid Life Leisure money for ice-cream”, seriously who&would have Headquarters it any other way? However our day would end with a great outdoor family Phone dinner, board games, music and a lot of laughs. (07) 5580 4988 There is so much we are excited about this month, including Address the wrap up of the Commonwealth Games, which from our PO BOX 1076, Sanctuary Cove the Q 4212 experience was fantastic. The logistics, the excitement, Hope Coast planning and the general feel was an Island, amazingGold experience and we are so glad we had the chance to enjoy it with our kids and will hold a special place in ourWebsites memory banks for a www.liquidlifeandleisure.com.au long time to come.
Email Check out this edition from front to back, as there is so much content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au to love in it. Advertising Thanks for stopping by and until next month. content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au for Content: 15th of every month LivingDeadline & Loving Life Contributors Hayles Yasmin & Leigh - Family Gap Year Dan & & Fee - Ozzy Wide Ozzy Pride Co-Founder Blogger Kelly Gudgeon - Destination and Travel
Liquid Life & Leisure Team Editor Hayley Taylor Director Ben Charity National Sales Manager Dan Charity Design GraffitzDesign Design Studio Co Flourish
Liquid Life & Leisure Headquarters Phone (07) 5580 4988 Address PO BOX 1076, Sanctuary Cove Q 4212 Hope Island, Gold Coast Websites www.liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Email content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Advertising content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Deadline for Content: 15th of every month Contributors Yasmin & Leigh - Family Gap Year Y Dan & Fee - Ozzy Wide Ozzy Pride Leigh & Tegan - Wander to Wonder Kelly Gudgeon - Destination and Travel LIQUID LIFE & LEISURE
FOR many Australians, caravan and camping trips are an enjoyable and exciting weekend trip or holiday for the whole family. For others it is not simply a holiday, but a way of life. Bec and Justin Lorrimer have spent the past two years travelling around Australia in a caravan with their children Jack, Billy and Charli. But just how do they do it? From budgeting, to cooking, to keeping kids entertained, to caravan maintenance and tips, there is certainly a lot to consider and it is a concept which may seem daunting, if not impossible, to many families. That’s where the Mummy Blog and Justin’s Bits series come in. Do you get sick of living in a caravan? How do you save money? What do you do to entertain kids on long drives? These questions and more are all addressed through quick, casual and informative videos. For anybody interested in taking the plunge or even looking at taking a longer trip, they are full of wise words, tricks of the trade and more. “I can quite honestly tell you that I’m not sick of it one bit,” Justin says. “I’ve always been quite simple anyway with what we have, and this lifestyle suits us perfectly.” Throughout the new Justin’s Bits segments, the father of three says having the right equipment and being prepared makes all the difference and has been pivotal in making their travels easy, comfortable and convenient. “The kids have got enough room for bunks, I’ve got room for a dining room lounge area, we have a full kitchen with all the appliances and creature comforts of home, and I’ve still got a queen bed that’s always set up,” he says. “We can do whatever we want, take whatever we want and live out of it quite comfortably. “Life is simple, life is easy and it’s bloody enjoyable... I don’t get sick of living in a caravan and I reckon if you try it out, neither will you.” To find out more of Bec and Justin’s trips and to start planning your own family journey, visit:
www.letsgocaravanandcamping.com.au
How to caravan with kids
$44,990.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2018
STARTS: Over 6,600 athletes and team officials from 71 nations and territories made history over 11 unforgettable days of world class sporting action. For the first time in the history of a major multi-sport Games, there was an equal number of medal events for men and women across all sports, while GC2018 had the largest integrated sports program in Commonwealth Games history, comprising 18 sports and seven para sports. There were 29 countries who claimed gold, with medals shared between 43 countries, beating the previous best of 39 which was set at Manchester 2002 and equalled at Melbourne 2006. Five countries won their first Commonwealth Games medals at the Gold Coast, while South Africa's Chad LE Clos became the first male swimmer to win the
same event (the 200m butterfly) at three consecutive Commonwealth Games and came close to equalling the all-time record of 18 Commonwealth Games medals, with his haul at GC2018 bringing his total to 17. Here are some of the best moments of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games: RECORD BREAKERS Australia broke its own world record in winning the women's 4x100m freestyle relay to cap a memorable first day of competition. The Australian quartet was never in doubt for the gold medal, with lead-off swimmer Shayna Jack and Bronte Campbell, swimming the second leg, establishing a one body-length lead over the rest of the field. Emma McKeon managed to extend that lead to two body-lengths before handing over to former 100m freestyle
world record holder Cate Campbell. CYCLING RECORDS TUMBLE AT VELODROME The only record not broken at the Anna Meares velodrome during GC2018 was the record set by Anna Meares herself in the 500m time trial at the Glasgow 2014 games. Commonwealth Games records were set or broken in every other track cycling competition. Australia topped the medal tally, but Scotland also left the Anna Meares Velodrome happy after doubling their medal haul from Glasgow 2014. The hosts secured 19 medals (10 gold, three silver, and six bronze) to the delight of daily sell-out crowds at the new venue, while Scotland were the next most successful with 10 medals (four gold, four silver, and two bronze).
MALAWI CONQUER NEW ZEALAND IN NETBALL Malawi registered the nation's first ever win against New Zealand sparking wild celebrations after the upset 57-53 result. The Malawi Queens' victory was their first success against two-time Commonwealth champion New Zealand in 10 attempts. Trailing by seven goals at halftime, Malawi set up their famous victory with a 17-9 third quarter. CHAMPIONS CROWNED, HISTORY MADE AT CARRARA STADIUM Michelle-Lee Ahye became the first woman from Trinidad and Tobago to win 100m Commonwealth Games gold and the nation's first gold medallist since Ato Bolden won the men's 100m race in 1998. In the men's 100m final, Akani
Simbine won gold in a time of 10:03 seconds. It marks the first time in 20 years that an athlete from a Caribbean country has not held the title of the Commonwealth's fastest man . AUSTRALIA AND CANADA CLAIM BEACH VOLLEYBALL HISTORY Coolangatta Beach was a cauldron when Australia won the first ever Commonwealth Games men's Beach Volleyball medal in front of a home crowd. It wasn’t without a fight Australians Chris McHugh and Damien Schumann overcame a 12-9 deficit in the third set to defeat Canada's Samuel Pedlow and Sam Schachter in the gold medal match. McHugh and Schumann had not dropped a set in the tournament coming into the final, and emerged victorious in a back-and-forth thriller in front of an electric crowd.
In the women's final, Canada's Melissa Humana-Paredes and Sarah Pavan overcame their toughest test to win beach volleyball gold over Australia. CANADA’S BUZZER BEATER Mamadou Gueye's three-pointer at the buzzer sent Canada into the gold medal basketball game with an upset 88-86 win over New Zealand. Canada led by as many as 20 points late in the third quarter, but New Zealand fought back in the fourth to take a one-point lead with 5.1 seconds remaining. On the last play, Canada tried to get the ball in the hands of top scorer Ammanuel Diressa, but New Zealand defended the play well and denied him the ball. That left Gueye to throw up a three-point prayer that banked in off the backboard as time expired sparking wild celebrations.
OLDEST GOLD MEDAL WINNER Ken Hanson has become Australia’s oldest ever gold medal winner at a Commonwealth Games after making his debut at the spritely age of 68. Hanson won gold for his B6/B7/B8 Triples dramatically with the last bowl of the match. FEARNLEY CLAIMS EMOTIONAL MARATHON GOLD
Australia’s Kurt Fearnley signed off an outstanding career for Australia with a comprehensive victory in the men's T54 marathon. The two-time Paralympic marathon champion relentlessly forged ahead breaking the Commonwealth Games record time on his way to 1:30:26. It was his second medal of GC2018 following silver in the T54 men's 1500m.
NEW WORLD ORDER OF NETBALL England defeated Australia in the last second of a pulsating and historic netball final 52-51. Goal attack Helen Housby hit the match-winning goal in the last second after the Roses had trailed by as much as four goals early in the final quarter. It sparked wild scenes as England celebrated their first netball gold medal.
s d a e H x o n n Le
Situated a short drive South of Byron Bay, with spectacular and pristine coastal scenery is a small coastal town full of beauty and gorgeous Lennox Head. Lennox Head for a small coastal town has so much to offer. With absolute beachfront lining the main street, its hip and trendy boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, grocery stores making life at Lennox so easy to adjust to. The stunning beaches the surf or for those that prefer the flat water the gorgeous Lake Ainsworth makes it perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking or swimming or a family picnic on the water’s edge.
If you are one that loves a good walk or run, you can follow the shoreline around to reach Pat Morton Lookout which mind you is spectacular and the walk up from town centre is magnificent.
Fun Facts
The headland is a result of lava flows and is part of the huge volcano which was over 80 km across and stretched from the Gold Coast down to Ballina and beyond. It was centred on Mount Warning near Murwillumbah. If you are lucky enough to be visiting between the months of May and November, you may just get to spot the whales migrating along the coast from the lookout.
Things to do in the region Apart from a splash of shopping, a drink at the local pub, dinner at one of the restaurants or a picnic at the beach, there is so many day trips to make, experiences to enjoy and is what makes Lennox Heads the perfect spot to base yourself for your next holiday.
Flight #1
Join us on a low-level Warbird reconnaissance flight past coastal landmarks such as the Cape Byron Lighthouse and Lennox Head. Experience the solid, smooth handling characteristics of the plane that served as the RAAF’s primary trainer from 1955 to 1974 and which is an iconic piece of Australia’s proud Air Force history. This is a fantastic introduction to the Winjeel and is ideal for friends or family to enjoy together. It’s suitable for all ages from 3 years and up. Time: One hour total time allowance (approximate flight time is 22-25 minutes) Costs: Three passengers: $150 pp, Two passengers: $195 pp, Single passenger:$360
We’ve got something for everyone… If you are looking for Byron Bay adventure tours that explore the big blue around Byron Bay, we’ve got a treat for you! Choose from Marine Park & Dolphin Watching Tours, Premier Byron Bay Whale Watching or a tranquil Sunset Cruise on the Richmond River. Take your pick!
Bhavana (Bhaa-vuh-naa) meaning ‘spiritual cultivation’ is at the heart of every experience we offer. More than just a cooking school, Bhavana is a catalyst for health and wellbeing . From our organic gardens grown in harmony with Mother Nature, we cultivate seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit and harvest them with love. Our Isa Brown Chickens are a big part of the family, they wander the property and deliver delicious free-range eggs to us daily. A herd of Black Angus graze the pastures of the farm and play their part in maintaining this beautiful property . We respect our location, our natural environment and our community. We support many local producers, artisans, farmers and our neighbours. Our living philosophy, is the simple and authentic understanding of food and its significance to our wellbeing and health. Whole foods provide not only our living energy, but are the healing source for so many facets of our life. We believe there is a natural pharmacy in every nurtured garden, and a little knowledge and willingness to learn, are the ingredients for creating physical health, emotional wellbeing and longevity of life. Our cooking classes provide you with a nurturing, relaxing and fun cooking experience, free from the stresses of everyday. At Bhavana, inspiration and learning are at the heart of everything we do, after spending a day with us, you will take away skills and information that will enhance your life and wellbeing and that of your family too.
Introducing Galways Go Round - How our Fiftyby50 changed us
In the summer of 2015/2016 the Galway family formerly of Sydney took a 5 week road trip to Emerald Beach on the Coffs Coast via Tasmania. It was a long shot but somewhere along the Hay Plain the trip proved to be life-changing as Adam and Sharon wrote their 'Fifty by 50' list. A list of fifty things that they wanted to achieve by the time they both turned 50. A bucket list of sorts with many goals and aspirations of different kinds that would hopefully be achieved while their 3 children were still young enough to want to hang out with mum & dad. The list sharpened their focus on life and love and they set about working swiftly towards what really matters. Adam and Sharon are high school sweethearts, meeting at the young ages of 17 and 14. Travel and adventure has never been far from their minds and at 16 and 19 they had their first camping holiday and have simply never stopped enjoying the great outdoors since. They married in 2001 and have 3 beautiful children Ella (13), Ava (7) and Noah (4). Adam was a well-known Sydney chef who has worked for some of the most dynamic and
advanced hospitality organisations in Sydney and on the east coast and Sharon was an assistant principal, teaching in the south-western suburbs since 2000. After years of camping in a tent they bought their first caravan in 2009 when Ella was 4 and enjoyed years of annual holidays and long weekends in that and subsequent caravans as the family grew. In 2016 they ticked 11 items off their Fiftyby50 list but little did they realise that during that first 12 months their bucket list was changing them in more ways than just kicking life goals. According to Sharon, more than anything, their list was sharpening their focus on what they really wanted from this phase in their lives and the importance of actively pursuing goals and dreams outside of work, in order to live a fulfilling life. Adam says their list gave them a better balance between working and living and made them think hard about what they would regret in years to come if they didn't spend the quality time to do the things they craved with their children whilst they were still young.
Come January 2017 and the status quo was well and truly being questioned by Team Galway- everything from housing to finances to careers. A lap had been planned for a July 2018 departure for sometime but sands were shifting under their feet and they soon realised that their dream no longer consisted of owning a home in the burbs of Sydney and that the road was calling them louder than ever. On the 28th January 2017 they made an on the spot decision to sell up and take to the road. Four months later their caravan became their home and on the 1st June 2017 they left the big smoke to embark on a round Australia trip. The Galways have 2 mantras that have been a driving force behind their journey. “You’re only ever one decision away from a completely different life” and “If your dreams don’t scare you, then you’re not dreaming big enough”. They encourage people to write their bucket
lists to put themselves in touch with their goals and aspirations and have inspired many to make positive changes in their lives to follow their deepest desires and live their best life.
Next month they will tell us about their 12 month adventure living in a caravan around Australia and what they’re up to now. Galways Go Round are mobile retailers for Red Paddle Co inflatable stand up paddle boards. For more information, contact them via
Facebook.com/galwaysgoround or phone 0416163656.
TRAVEL IN TASMANIA
We are a young family travelling this beautiful country of ours, Mum, Dad, our 2.5 year old daughter and our 9 year old dog.
4km from the city, which is a great safe base to explore the local area.
Here is our trip in Tassie, hope you enjoy it. We did the night sail from Melbourne to Devonport, arriving in Melbourne WAY too early, just to be safe. So we found a park and played for a few hours, then onto the ship… What a well-run, smooth process that was. Although it looked daunting with the amount of vehicles lined up, it all went very well. The night sail and having a room worked well for us, and we all got a pretty good sleep. We had checked our dog into a cage on the way over, however when in Tas we found out you can leave your pets in your car or van so we did that on the way back, and she loved that trip. Once in Tas, we headed straight for Launceston, and stayed at Old Macs Farm, a convenient, low cost camp,
From there we went to the North West Tip, and Stayed at Stanley Cabins and Tourist Park. What a beautiful little old style town, with its white beaches and crystal clear water and a picturesque little town. A hike to the top of “The Nut” is a must do…. Or there is a chairlift if you want an easy trip up and back. Once up there it’s a 45 min walk around the track on top. Next Stop, Macquarie Heads Campground, just out of Strahan, on the Mid-West Coast. We were
expecting a lot from this town as it was mentioned as one of the must see places. We got there expecting a huge, bustling town, however found it to be a very quiet, small village. Once we accepted that, we loved what it had to offer.
We did the “World Heritage Cruises” Gordon River Cruise from Strahan, a locally owned and run cruise offering some historical stops along the way, and a fantastic on board lunch of local produce. We had a fantastic day on board, and was great for kids, with plenty to entertain.
We took a trip to Bruny Island, which cost $75 return on the ferry for the Car and Van. Staying at the Landscape Supplies Campgrounds, allowed us to enjoy beautiful walks, climbing “The Neck” enjoyed some fresh oysters, lots of flathead and tried “Floundering” for the first time. Four days here was a good amount of time.
We left Strahan, bound for Hobart, and had to stop and check out “The Wall” on the way at Derwent Bridge. 2 weeks at Hobart Showgrounds, this proved to be a good base as very simple set up and facilities.
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From there we went on to Eldee Camp Spot, a fantastic cheap camp run by a young family who did their travels, and wanted to set up an RV Camp, which then expanded into a large Camp ground, with fabulous facilities. Highly recommend . Derford Farms in Bream Creek was our next stop, one of the many free camps set up by a lovely farming family, with running water, fire pit with wood, flushing toilet, manicured lawns, million dollar views, and all FREE. We used this as a base to explore Port Arthur.
out all of the walks in Freycinet National Park.
In Triabunna we camped out the back of the local pub, which was for a donation or patronage in the pub, this being their going rate. We used this as a base to explore Maria Island, a beaut National Park with a lot of history, and the beautiful “Painted Cliffs”
It doesn’t get much better than camping right on top of the beach, million dollar views, and all free.
Freycinet Golf Club another cheap camp, just out of the National Park as we have our dog with us and we stayed for 5 days. This was a great secure base that allowed us to check
From here we moved on to Douglas River Campground, and then onto the Big 4 at St Helens. The Big 4 St Helens, was great to have all the facilities, you come to expect from a Big 4, and great for our daughter to enjoy. We then moved onto, what we class as our NUMBER 1 free camp, the beautiful Swimcart Beach – Bay of Fires.
Midway Point, Sulphur Creek was our next stop just out of Penguin, another free camp and plenty of room with a railway track between you and the water. Only 1-2 trains per day so not too bad. Penguin is a fantastic little town and worth visiting. Off to Boat Harbour Beach Free Camp and another that is literally right on the water. Nice flati(sh) grass sites, only metres from the rocky waterfront on one side, and beautiful Sandy beach on the other side. We then made our way to another free camp in a tiny town called Hamilton. This was a great overnighter with a small creek at the rear and we even had a visit from one of the local platypus. Next stop, Huon Valley CP, fantastic for kids, they have animals roaming around, a farm animal display each afternoon at 4pm with cow milking, sheep shearing, sheepdog demonstrations, Tassie Devil feeding, very interesting and changes daily.
Another fantastic free camp in Geeveston called Heritage Park, which the town has spent a lot of $$$$ on a huge playground, bike and skate park, amenities block which really brings visitors into the small town. With platypus in the creek right beside and hundreds of vans can fit.
We then ventured down to the southernmost point of Tassie, Cockle Creek Free Camp. A picturesque area, with a lot of walks and rides, surf beaches over one side and the creek the other. Fantastic anchorage for boaties and great area for fishing, SUP, and Kayak lovers.
Our Tassie Top 5 Old Macs Farm, Launceston What a fantastic, safe and affordable base to discover the beautiful City. We experienced places including Cataract Gorge right in the city, to the attractions around Beaconsfield, Beauty Point and to the North. Within Old Macs Farm is the Stonesthrow Café, serving up beautiful fresh meals and coffee, and has fresh berries to purchase daily from the owner’s HUGE berry farm. The café also has a small petting zoo that is great for the kids, has Shetland Ponies, Calves, Lambs, Alpaca, Chickens and more. The kids can fish in the lakes and if they catch an eel, can see it hand fed to one of the local Sea Eagle.
Huon Valley Caravan Park Huon Valley - A fantastic park located on the banks of the Huon River. There are Platypus to be found in the river and has a nice little sandy beach to ease yourself into the water to cool off in summer, or to wet a line. At 4pm every day there is an animal show that changes daily, including Cow Milking, Sheep Shearing, Sheep Dog Demonstration, and finishes with Tasmanian Devil Feeding. The park runs donation programs to fund research into building up the numbers of Devils and improving their wellbeing. They have animals all around the park, and fruit trees to pick as you need.
Cockle Creek Campgrounds Cockle Creek - This FREE Camp gets you access to the most southern point in Tasmania. There are numerous campgrounds in this area, half being National Park. Drop toilets scattered around and drinking water in the National Park area. You will find numerous walks to do from here, with the creek a great opportunity for a dip or a SUP. On the ocean side it provides a beautiful clean swimming beach, with fantastic family friendly fishing off the sand. Cockle Creek offers a lot of the bush camps that are suitable for camper trailers or small off-road vans, and there are a few paddock style grounds for the bigger vans, or if you are part of a group.
Bruny Island An island full of natural beauty, a short ferry ride over ($75 return with car and trailer) will get you to Bruny Island. We spent 4 days here and found that to be a good length of time to see everything the island had to offer. There are numerous options for camping, from free at the Pub, low Cost at the newly upgraded Landscape Supplies, to National Parks, and caravan Parks. Fishing is fantastic either from the shore, boat, or “Floundering� at night using a torch and spear. Oysters are Huge and can be found quite easily for yourself, or there are a few Oyster shops and Bars on the Island. The Neck is a popular tourist attraction that you climb to the top of for a great lookout during the day, and by night is a Penguin Rookery where you can view the Penguins coming back to shore after a hard days fishing. There are a lot of drives and walks to do while on the island, and a few popular items that the tour companies thrive off. If you have the time it is definitely worth the trip over for a few days.
Swimcart Beach, Bay of Fires WOW, Million-dollar views for FREE. You can literally park on the sand dunes here, awning facing the beach and have your own little piece of paradise. The waterfront spots are very popular so usually need to get there at the right time as someone is leaving, or organise someone to wait there until you are ready to pull in. There are plenty of spots back off the water, and you can stalk out a good position from there. You have beautiful white sand, and crystal-clear water. There are a few toilets here; fresh water is available 10 minutes up the road. If you wanted to leave your waterfront spot for a look around, there are plenty of family friendly swimming spots, one at Binalong Bay especially that is fantastic
2017 Wild Boar Razorback This latest model forward fold camper trailer is ready for hire! It is 4 berth with queen size bed with capability for double fold down beds in lounge area.
2007 Jayco J Series Our van is clean and comfortable and ideal for two people. It contains two single beds, an awning, two camping chairs, camping table, a microwave, stove top, fridge, cutlery and plates, toaster, kettle, tea and coffee, tea towels, a small fan heater, a larger cooling fan and air conditioning
$95 / Day | Brisbane/Hawthorne, QLD
$45 / Day | Location: Red Cliffs/Mildura
2010 Jayco Expanda 16-49-2HL Bunks
2013 Jayco Expanda Touring
Say Hi to Bessie, our awesome and immaculate 2010 Jayco Expanda 16.49-2HL. She is the ideal Caravan for families both small and large to Hire! With sleeping for six, when fully expanded, she is spacious at over 22 feet long $110 / Day | Boronia
Great family van sleeping 6 comfortably with Roof AC, 150L fridge, shower and toilet and much much more Know that you can go away on holidays and really enjoy your trip!! $110 / Day | Mirboo North
2017 Nissan Navara ST Auto 4×4
2017 Jayco Hawk Outback
If you dont have a suitable tow vehicle we have you covered, this brand new Nissan Navara is suitable to tow any of our caravans with a pre-installed top of the range electric brake controller. With is 3500kg towing capacity & twin-turbo diesel engine offering seamless power and torque delivery with maximum 450Nm of torque from as low as 1500-2500rpm.
Our Jayco Hawk Outback is truly a home from home! From our family to yours, we present our much loved camper trailer with all the comforts of home. Perfectly maintained, perfect for families. Set up demonstration provided at pick up.
Fitted with GPS guidance system, USB & Bluetooth audio.
$90 / Day | Secret Harbour
$100 / Day |
Endeavour Hills
2015 Jayco Expanda OB 18.58-2
2016 Spaceland Sports Edition
We had this Caravan made for us with all the bits n pieces including an oven, an extended drawbar, then we had a tool box put on the front, the tyre carrier moved to the rear and a bike carrier made up to be able to take the kids bikes with us.
Why not have this luxury on wheels serve your needs. Previously rented out for weddings, overseas guests and some caravanning fun. Can sleep 5 – one queen bed, the lounge converts to another queen bed and one single bed at dinning.
$150 / Day |
$129 / Day | Parafield Gardens, SA
Bacchus Marsh
2012 Jayco Expanda 17 56 1HL Our 2012 Jayco 17.56-1HL Expanda sleeps 6 comfortably and features…… Dinette area, Bunks that can be converted to second dining space, Roof mounted Air con / Heating Large fridge, TV that can be used inside & much more $110 / Day | Karalee/Ipswich, QLD
BREAKFAST - $14.50 Per Person Continental Breakfast • • • • • • •
Assorted Cereals/ Bircher Muesli Yogurts Variety of Fruits in Syrup & Fresh Fruit Selection Fresh Juices Fresh Milk Tea & Coffee Assortment of Freshly Baked Danishes, Croissants & Muffins
LUNCH - $15.50 Per Person Option 1 – Lunch Box Menu (Takeaway) • • • • • • •
Assorted Cereals/ Bircher Muesli Yogurts Variety of Fruits in Syrup & Fresh Fruit Selection Fresh Juices Fresh Milk Tea & Coffee Assortment of Freshly Baked Danishes, Croissants & Muffins
Option 2 – Hot Dog Buffet Menu Make A Hotdog • Hot Dog Bun - Pork Sausage, Beef Sausage, Vegetarian Sausage, - Sliced Tomato, Cucumber, Cheese, Beetroot, Onion, - Condiments - Onion Jam, Chutney & Sauces • Chips • Juices / Soft Drink • Sliced Fruits
DINNER - $16.50 Per Person Pizza Buffet -Variety of Pizzas • Nuggets • Garden Salad, Asian Slow Salad, Pasta Salad • Juice / Soft Drink • Sliced fruits
Moreton Life Half Page - 262mm wide x 144mm high
LESS HASSLE - MORE BOATING North Brisbane’s NEWEST boat Drystack -
More time on water, less time in preparation.
No trailer needed No need for yard or garage space No more ramp stress No need for towing vehicle No more anti-fouling
Complements modern busy life-styles Brings back boating for those living in units or small blocks Offers easy entry for new boaters Ideal for single operators
ur Ask about o
OPENING SPECIALS
Ph: 07 3880 0300
www.scarbmarina.com.au
EXPERIENCE SCARBOROUGH MARINA Offering a broad range of services and facilities to suit the needs of all boating enthusiasts, Scarborough Marina comprises of over 230 wet berths, a full service boat yard and a valet serviced rack storage facility for the modern, affordable and convenient alternative to trailer boating. Whether passing through, or planning to stay, our modern full service marina, backed by great customer service, aims to bring back the real enjoyment to your boating. Great service, location and facilities: • • • • • •
Secure modern facilities (Gated Access & CCTV) Clean Modern Amenities, including 24hr Laundry Cruisers Lounge with TV and Wi-Fi 24hr fuel dock – Premium Unleaded & Diesel Full rack storage boat valet service Full service boatyard and on-site services including chandlery, rigging, mechanics, boat repairs and Sales and more • Discounts on hardstand services for marina customers • Shops, restaurants and cafes nearby
MODERN, FULL SERVICE BOATYARD
GREAT LOCATION
All major hardstand services and facilities are available including a 35 tonne Marine Travel lift supported by skilled and experienced operators and a range of quality onsite tenant services.
Scarborough Marina is ideally situated on Brisbane’s Redcliffe Peninsula only 35 minutes from Brisbane central in the allweather protected Scarborough Boat Harbour. With direct access to the renowned aquatic playground of Moreton bay, Scarborough Marina is the ideal base for your boating enjoyment, making it easy to explore the many attractions including Moreton Island, Bribie Island, Pumicestone Passage and the famous wrecks of Tangalooma.
VALET SERVICE FOR YOUR BOAT
Our valet serviced rack storage facility offers a modern, affordable and convenient alternative to trailer boating with unlimited launch and retrieval for power boats up to 9M. Simply Ring ahead, to have your boat tied up to the marina ready and waiting for you to really enjoy your boating.
www.scarbmarina.com.au
07 3880 0300 28
Thurecht Parade, Scarborough QLD Australia
East Coast Marina 570 Royal Esplanade, Manly, QLD, 4179
East Coast Marina is fortunate to have the new owners of Bayside Boat Canopies, Ray and Julie Sloan, offering high quality workmanship in all Marine Trimming and Upholstery applications, coupled with good old fashion honest, reliable and friendly service. The main office/showroom (stocking your basic Chandlery needs) is located at the top of the gangway (next to the main Marina Office) and our talented team’s workshop is conveniently positioned under the dry storage racks at ECM. Owner, Ray Sloan has 30+ years’ experience, as well as being a trainer and assessor in the trimming/upholstery sector working with SkillsTech (TAFE QLD) and QLD/NSW apprentices plus being a part of the development team who created the current training modules for apprentices.
Ray and Julie invite you to pop in and say G’day!
Office Open 0830hrs – 1500hrs Monday to Friday Workshop Open 0700hrs – 1730hrs Monday to Friday (weekends by appointment) Mobile: 0428 324 575 Email: sales@boatcanopies.com.au Webpage: www.boatcanopies.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/baysideboatcanopies.com
FLYBRIDGE CLEARS
AWNINGS
UPHOLSTERY
UPHOLSTERY
TRAVEL BOAT COVERS
REAR STORM COVER & SCREEN
BIMINI’S & DODGER’S
PRIVACY WINDOW SCREENS REAR AWNING’S & BIMINI’S
CARPET
(INCLUDING FRAMEWORK)
Everything Boating, Caravanning, Camping, Travel and Outdoors… in one App!
App Latest products and news in Caravans, Camping, Stand-Up Paddle boarding (SUP), Kayak, Boating, Boarding, Dining, Health and Wellness, Must See and Do around Australia plus more! Service, Products, Weather, Blogging, Events, Latest News and our Monthly magazine delivered to your device for FREE. DOWNLOAD IT TODAY AND RECEIVE: • Alerts- Receive up-to-date news and the latest information • Events- See all our upcoming events in detail and rsvp • Blog- Read our blog posts and stay connected • Photo Share - Share your photos with us • Magazines- View and print our magazines
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y a m s i h t on 11-13 MAY VENUE: Cairns Showgrounds u WEBSITE: www.cairnsexpo.com.a FACEBOOK: CairnsExpo
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Check the website for other major Queensland events
www.australianevents.com.au
The Road Owl Range What makes caravanning so wonderful, is all the wisdom you pick up along the way. We call it 'Van Wisdom', and the best way to discover it is with our new Road Owl Caravan. Designed with quality, style and affordability in mind, the new Road Owl is easy to call home no matter how far you go. So head out there and start discovering..
Bayside Boat Canopies is a family-owned business based in East Coast Marina, Manly, Queensland. We specialise in custom made boat canopies, biminis clears, upholstery and covers to suit all style of boats, no matter how big or small. All proudly Australian made to suit any marine application. Some Made to order and in-stock products ready to ship anywhere in Australia. www.boatiesquotes.com.au/bayside-boat-canopies
www.lifestyleandleisuresupercentre.com.au/new-age-caravans
MT60FP (MT60F-G4P) :: 60 Litre Chest Digital Platinum Series New Digital Platinum Series.New User friendly digital controls with built in battery monitor. Interior LED Light. Despite this model's large capacity it is still light enough to carry. Great for group excursions, fishing trips and extended touring.. www.lifestyleandleisuresupercentre.com.au/engel-australia
Boat Names Australia With Boat Names Australia, you get exactly the boat lettering you want for your yacht or powerboat – at a small percentage of the cost of a sign writer. Save hundreds using our DIY product – and still achieve the perfect look. www.boatiesquotes.com.au/boat-names-australia-pty-ltd-2
UEC VAST INTEGRATED LCD HD Televisions NEW VAST Integrated 22” LED illuminated LCD televisions ship complete with one of the best VAST Satellite receivers available. Digital Terrestrial TV Tuners are also built in to both television sizes. Each receiver is USB2.0 PVR Ready and includes powerful Media Player functions.
Squidezy Cleaning squid or calamari can be messy. The SquidEzy™ enables novices and experienced alike to clean squid quickly without the usual mess and effort. www.boatiesquotes.com.au/squidezy
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W6 Non Cyclonic Shed 3170mm W x 6000mm L x 2500mm Apex
W41/N3 Wind Rating, Patented Design “No Rust” Bend Technology providing a 30% stronger frame. Erection in Hours using our slip fit connection system (no cutting or welding) www.lifestyleandleisuresupercentre.com.au/gotcha-covered-shed
Gravity LED G4 Jeep JK Led Fog Pair Pack System KC HiLiTES 4″ G4 Gravity LED Jeep Pair Pack features bright CREE LEDs in a Street Legal Fog Beam pattern. Shatter proof polycarbonate lens and Magnesium housing. www.lifestyleandleisuresupercentre.com.au/race-wheels-australia-2
Wander to Wonder Oz Howdy! We’re Leigh, Tegan, daughter Bodhi (6yrs) and son Finn (4yrs) of ‘Wander to Wonder Oz’. We’ve decided to take
some time off from our suburban life and chase our dream of travelling around Australia in a caravan with our little wanderers. You can follow along on our adventures on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube, as well as our website
www.wandertowonderoz.com In January 2017, we were travelling home from our annual camping trip along the Murray River in Victoria. As we
remarked about how great it was to spend quality family time outside free from technology, away from the grinds of home chores and work demands, we thought ‘Wouldn’t it be great to travel full time and really explore Australia?’ Wouldn’t it be an amazing experience to give our children?’. For a while now, we’d been on this treadmill that just seemed to be getting faster and faster. In our attempt to achieve the perfect house, the perfect job and perfect
upbringing for our children, we’d lost our battle for balance. Now we recognised the need to simplify every part of
our lives and truly enjoy parenthood, to be present over perfect. We are at that stage of life where our children love you more than they are ever going to love you again, where cuddles are freely given, giggles are contagious, happiness can be found in the simplest of things and sadness can be solved by a hug and an ice-cream. Why wouldn’t you want to pause for that?
And so this crazy idea was born!
other travelling families, each
budget just blind optimism! At the
decide to go and sell up and hit
and they were a wealth of
Australia and their Rangefinder
12mth wait. Our home is our
budgets to itineraries. What we
was lightweight (1950 TARE), had
intention of selling, our eldest was
the right fit for your family, whether
layout and the bed was actually
had to work around Tegan’s job.
accommodation, vehicle, activities
without his legs hanging off. We
planning, prepping and packing
and no two trips will ever be the
also fitted off some optional extras
Now unlike many others who
travelling in their own unique way
show we stumbled across Bailey
the road within weeks, we had a
information on everything from
Gemini. The van was perfect. It
‘forever home’ of which we had no
learnt was that you need to find
a beautiful interior with the perfect
just about to start school and we
that’s your choice of
long enough for Leigh to sleep on
Thankfully this gave us plenty of
or time, there are endless options
had found our van! Bailey Australia
time.
same.
of solar panels, bike rack, DSC,
Now we should start off by saying
For us, we knew a full caravan
fitting so the only addition we had
caravanning! We have been life
minimise set up time and offer us
Sirocco fan to each bed. These
towed anything bigger than our
were accustomed too. So off to the
easily run off the solar without
some guidance! Thankfully we
wish list and a rough budget in
us nice a cool.
exterior shower and external gas
that we knew nothing about
would be the perfect fit, as it would
to make was to install a 12v
long campers and had never
some creature comforts that we
guys draw very little power and will
5x7 trailer. Clearly we needed
caravan show we went with our
draining the battery and keeping
found that in the form of dozens of
mind, and by rough I mean no
Thankfully the car was a much easier decision. A 7 seater with a three tonne towing capacity and great reputation it had to be the Isuzu MUX. Although it turns out its not as simple as buying the right 4x4, there is still a heap you
have to do to make it perfect (or perfect in the eyes of Leigh). So off went the car and all our salary to ARB for a 2� lift, long range fuel tank, roof racks, snorkel and bulbar. Then came a cargo barrier, UHF radio, light bar, driving
lights, Waeco fridge and of course the eye watering expensive all terrain tyres. But at least she looks good now
Quite early on we started planning
definitely wanted to visit (our
to travel, but Australia is so vast
available weather for our starting
space in between. We want to give
time in just one state! So we have
autumn, meant to chase the sun
experience so we’re hoping to
anti-clockwise direction. Once we
and outback. Now 10mths may
our travel route based on the best
bucketlist) and then filling in the
date. Coming from Melbourne in
the kids a genuine Aussie
we should head north in an
have a good balance of coastal
had that figured out it was a case
seem like a huge amount of time
of pin pointing spots we knew we
that you could easily spend that
some rough time frames in mind for when we should be hitting
certain points just to keep us on
track and ensure we don’t have to skip over spots later in the trip.
We’re planning on doing a fair bit of free camping so it’s essential that we have enough power while off grid. We’ve run a second 120ah lithium battery from Pocket Power Australia which is really lightweight (saving us 20kg
compared to a tradition AGM battery) plus it’s 5 times more efficient. To charge that battery we’re carrying a 250w flexi solar panel (also from Pocket Power Australia) that weighs just 7kg and can be split to two 125w panels for added flexibility.
Our next consideration was schooling for Bodhi who is in Grade 1 and Finn who is in kindergarten. Surprisingly this didn’t cause us too much concern. We know that children learn from anything and everything they see and experience and by travelling we could expose our little wanderers to new
ideas, improve awareness of other cultures, promote a love and understanding of the environment, not to mention all the history and geography! We want to keep the formal stuff to a minimum and
allow them to really enjoy the experience and learn through incidental learning. We spoke to our
school Principal who was very supportive and agreed that life experience would trump books in our case. To complement this we found the perfect fit with a Victorian business called The Sunshine
Collective who make these Brilliant Boxes full of fun curriculum specific activities that get posted out to you throughout the year. So our schooling plan will consist of daily writing using the awesome journals from Caravanning with Kids and the Sunshine Collective boxes.
Pack the house, pack the car,
before we convinced them to get
stuff that kept appearing to be
items aren’t adding value to your
were overwhelmed by sheer
someone else’s. We donated
that we don’t use and won’t miss.
charity that helps refugees set up
declutter! Now anyone with kids
little toy sale to raise some money
Firstly, 90% of the clutter is theirs
to do on the road. It turned out to
challenging! We did our fair share
kids.
pack the van….. The amount of
on board by teaching them that if
packed was mind-boggling. We
life, allow them to add value to
volume of possessions we own
anything we didn’t need to a
What a great opportunity to
home and then let the kids have a
knows that this is no easy feat.
towards an activity that they’d like
and taking it from them is
be a pretty valuable lesson for the
of sneaking items out of the house
The last 12mths spent planning this trip together has been
exciting, exhausting and at times stressful. It’s been wonderful for Leigh and I to share a common passion, to stay up all night
plotting our adventure, sending
endless random texts to share a
newfound location or yet another
‘Big thing’ to add to the list. Not to mention all the awesome new
people we’ve already meet. If the
trip is half as good as we expect, it will have been worth every extra
hour worked and cent saved. We hope you’ll follow along and we
might even inspire another family to take the plunge!
Squidding made Ezy’! People of all ages and countries enjoy catching and eating squid but not so when it comes to cleaning them, as I found out on my first disastrous cleaning attempt. That experience prompted me to think there had to be a better way. Over a year or two and, after many prototypes and considerable product testing, I came up with a tool that made the onerous task of cleaning squid much cleaner and easier. With practice anyone can clean squid from start to finish in under a minute – a huge benefit if you have bagged out on squid. The feedback from customers has been more than encouraging. Many have said using these tools has cut their cleaning time by half. Shane Mensforth, the Editor of SA Angler magazine, said he didn’t bother catching squid because he hated cleaning them; now that he has a set of Squidezy tools this is no longer the case. The set comes in 3 different sizes, for different
size squid and they are made from food and dishwasher safe ABS plastic, the same material hard hats are made from. The set of three tools is designed and manufactured entirely in South Australia. You can purchase your set via the web site www.squidezy.com or checkout your nearest stockist. It works and is a great asset in the tackle box, especially when you bag out! Trust us.
NEW RELEASE 3
YEAR
CATCH HIM IF YOU CAN The strikingly beautiful blue marlin is one of the fastest fish in the world. The Marlin by JB Caravans is just as sleek and hard to catch, as it winds its way through Australia’s roads. The Marlin is available in touring and family bunk layouts so we have something for everyone. Get out and catch yourself a JB Marlin today!!
Wow I really liked this place. We ended up staying in the Horizon Kangaroo Sanctuary which is a beautiful place on top of a hill overlooking the whole of Agnes and 1770. It was a comedy of errors that we arrived here as it wasn’t really suitable for a rig of our size. I called them to establish whether it was safe because Wikicamps alluded to the fact that it wasn’t entirely suited to large, articulated vehicles. The phone was answered by a backpacker the sanctuary had staying with them. She
kindly relayed my questions to the owner Gary, who was on their roof at the time. Something must have been lost in translation because the steep gravel driveway, overhanging branches and tight campsite wasn’t ideal for a 15m articulated vehicle, but with Gary’s help and a chainsaw, we made it work and ended up camping in paradise for 3 nights. While there we visited the beach, went SUP’ing and swimming, in the middle of winter mind you, and went
exploring. We had a pretty good few days of school work and general compliance from the kids, possibly helped by Layla’s first truly enforced digital and sugar free week after her blow up in Bundaberg the night before. It seemed to work because I hadn’t seen behaviour like this in months. She was helping around the house, doing her school work with less complaints and doing things she wouldn’t ordinarily do without being asked i.e. washing dishes, putting stuff away, making lunches – huzzah!
We had perfect weather the whole time and barely needed to put a jumper on. Day two saw us get to the beach again and we went for a fishing exploration to Wreck Rock in the Deepwater National Park on the advice of Tonia Lassman (a teacher at Clayfield College). It felt like we were at Fraser Island again with the 10km track into Wreck Rock being almost all sand. It was a beautiful drive in with unexpected flora along the whole track. While there were people down there at the campground, you could have believed we were the last 3 people on earth as there was no body around. The beach was nice, but the awesome fishing I was lured there with (haha) was not to eventuate with not even a single bite for my 1 hour effort. The kids had a ball playing the last rays of sun away building sandcastles, and walls and playing in the shallows, again in the middle of winter in the rapidly waning sunlight. The sun went down and it was time to head back. By the time we got in the car it was dark with only a slight orange tinge visible on the western horizon where the sun had just been. We were back at camp shortly after and had our first movie of the week with my lifting Layla’s digital ban early due to good behaviour. We were up early and manoeuvred our way out of our tight surroundings, the perfect end to a perfect few days. By 8:30 we were biting into the kms we needed to eat up to collect Yas at Gladstone airport at 10:15. It was great to see her and we were all at peace again.
https://www.facebook.com/familygapyear/ https://familygapyear.com.au/
Emma George never leaves home without her Engel! “When people ask me why I chose an Engel fridge, I tell them it’s because they are reliable and durable. I bought this Engel fridge 14 years ago and it has served me well. Our family has camped all around Australia, travelled some of the roughest roads, and our Engel fridge has never let us down!”. - Emma George
l is Here’s why Enge : a fridge for life • The unique Sawafuji Swing Motor with only one moving part. • Solid steel construction makes Engel strong, tough and built to last. • Engel has the lowest maximum power draw of any fridge on the market.
• Easy power options – 240volt, 12 volt and 24volt. • Efficient design with tough fixtures and hinges. • Engel fridges are designed to work in the harshest conditions of the Australian outback.
“It’s a fridge for life!”
• Engel have a huge range of accessories for your fridge. • Engel have an Australia wide repair service in case something does go wrong. For more information or your nearest stockist, visit www.engelaustralia.com.au or email info@engelaustralia.com.au
/EngelAustralia
/EngelAustralia
Camping Tips with Emma George
Keeping it Cold
There’s nothing better than getting the family outdoors to spend quality time together and create memories that can last a lifetime. Camping is easy, affordable and a great excuse to get away for a couple of days, leave electronic devises at home and enjoy fresh air and freedom.
» If you are only camping for a few days or you have access to ice, a good quality esky is a great option. » Freeze a meal before you go as it can work as a freezer brick and all you have to do is reheat it for dinner. » Use drinking water and freeze it in plastic bottles as it is great for keeping food cold and you can drink the water once it has defrosted. » Keep your esky in a cool area and ensure your food is secure from animals such as birds and marsupials. » If you are camping for extended periods of time or camping regularly, think about investing in an Engel. » Engels can be used as a fridge or a freezer, keeping your food at a stable temperature. If I am camping for long periods, I often use my Engel as a freezer and I take an esky as well. I freeze my meat and defrost it in the esky and I also freeze ice bricks for use in the esky. » A fridge is a great investment as it means you can camp for extended periods and know your food will be cold. You don’t need to worry about being near a shop and it means you can visit remote camp sites, eat as well and your food will remain cold.
If you haven’t camped before then maybe try a caravan park or a campsite with facilities and once you get your confidence, branch out to national parks or perhaps try bush camping. This guide lists some of the local caravan parks and national park camping areas which are easily accessible for the weekend. Whether it be on the beach in the bush or alongside a river, there are plenty of camping options available and many of these you can book in advance.
Video Link: Watch to see how Emma sets up her vehicle & what she takes when she goes on a remote camping adventure!
Video Link: Watch the video to see how Emma uses her Engel fridges.
SINCE 1962
The first Engel fridge is released in Australia with the patented Sawafuji swing motor with only one moving part, specially designed for off road use. Over the next 55 years, the fridge would go through minimal changes – colours and case shape, a change to digital controls, and the introduction of different size options. But one thing has remained constant – the Sawafuji swing motor.
RRP $1199
RRP $1275
Sawafuji Swing motor The heart and soul of Engel fridges with only one moving part.
1962 The first Engel fridge is released in Australia – the MRFT 514.
1974 -1999 The Iconic MRFT Series was available in 15, 29 and 39 Litres.
2000
1979 The Introduction of the first 60L model.
The 29 litre increased to 32 litres to accommodate taller bottles and the 39 litre increased to 40 litres.
2002 The 40th Anniversary of Engel saw a commemorative silver model released, with the first Digital Temperature indicator.
RRP $1399
2012 2003 The First Engel Combi Series Fridge/ Freezer hits the Australian Market.
2008 MR40F Eclipse. Engel’s entry-level fridge with a polypropylene case.
The 50th Anniversary of Engel saw a limited edition Gold MT45FG, with the first digital thermostat control with battery cut out.
2015 The limited edition Legacy Fridges released in support of the great work Legacy Australia does.
2013-CURRENT For simplicity, durability, longevity, economy of power consumption and outright strength of construction you cannot go past the MT45FP (Digital Platinum Series).
? Where will the story take us next?
Replacing Anode in HWS DIY HWS Anode Replacement Changing out the Sacrifical Anode is one of those things that must be done. How Often ???? Depends on how often you use your hot water system and the quality of the water. If you only use your HWS a couple of times a year then you may get away with it once a year but if you use every other weekend it may need changing every 3 months. May pay to check every 3 months to get a gauge on how the anode is wearing. You dont need a lot of tools for this: 27mm Socket • Teflon Plumbing Tape • New Anode. For safety reasons, turn the water heater off the night before to let the hot water in the storage tank to cool down first to avoid any chance of scalding from hot water before proceeding with the following steps -
1. Turn water heater switch to off
4. Wrap top of new anode in a clockwise direction thread with sealant tape. Don't put the sealant tape on too thick or you will have difficulty tightening the anode.
2. Turn off electrical power to the appliance
5. Turn off the water pump inside the RV or turn off town water - then turn the water tap in sink to 'hot' water and let run out as this depressurises the hot water tank.
3. Turn off gas supply (gas cylinder/bottle)
6. Attach the socket wrench to the anode top and unscrew (counter clockwise) and remove the anode. Water will pour out and should be cool to touch stand back as you may get wet. You will get wet if you didnt release pressure. Let the water heater tank drain out. Then, using another hose connected to mains water, inset it into the tank to flush out any sediments.
7. Give it a good rinse out and once water is clear your good to put new anode in and tighten (clockwise). The anode may not tighten all the way to end of thread. Do not over-tighten. 8. Turn on one 'hot' water tap and the water pump only after you have connected the hose or ensured their is enough water in tanks . Be patient and wait as the water is re-filling the hot water storage tank. Once it is full, water will come through the hot water tap. Turn the tap off. 9. "Bleed" the air out of the HWS storage tank by lifting the small valve handle outside on the appliance until the water flows out continuously. Check the unit for any water leaks. 10. Unit is then ready to turn on power/gas for heating. 11. Clean up and then order another anode as a spare.
Happy Caravanning More information available at
www.everythingcaravanandcamping.com
Boat Names & Graphics Design your own easy DIY kit online At Boat Names Australia, we make customising your boat simple, affordable and fun. Our unique Design Online boat name tool on our website allows boat owners to play with fonts, shadow effects and colour combinations. Imaginative graphics and letter styles provide an opportunity to add a personal touch to your boat. Once you’ve created your design you can quickly order it online as one of our super easy, do-it- yourself application kits. Our high quality DIY kits are made using 3M marine grade vinyl & sent complete with simple to follow stepby-step instructions and an application tool. The lettering, graphics and stripes come pre-spaced and ready to apply in one piece. We also have in-house artists for the more complex requirements.
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Contact Yachtshare today!
W. yachtshare.com.au | P. 0410 696 578 | E. anton@yachtshare.com.au
Brand new and late model. All Types:
Full Body, Expandas, Poptops, Motorhomes Join this group to view them all and for alot more info!! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1754517614846650/
Caravan and Camping Hire AUS Australia’s Premier Peer 2 Peer Caravan/RV/Camper Hire Community Earn up to $20,000 per year from Hiring out Yours or just Hire one of 100s that we have listed across Australia
NEW REDARC TOW PRO ELITE PORTABLE ELECTRIC BRAKE UNITS C n C Hire AUS have new Portable Electric Brakes We are now selling the best quality and best made PEBs in Australia Redarc Tow-Pro Elite - $470 inc GST plus postage The best brake unit available on the market and we have created a solution enabling it to be used as a portable system suitable for any vehicle. Setup in a compact and sleek design to fit into any vehicle’s cup holder for simple and user friendly operation. With the remote head unit fitting in the cup holder, the main unit can be easily positioned under the drivers seas while the control knob sits compact in a neat and tidy fashion easily accessible by the driver. This is by far the easiest unit to fit into anyone’s vehicle requiring the use of a portable electric brake unit. The unit offers selectable Proportional or User Controlled trailer braking modes allowing the user to choose the braking style. It also features Active Calibration which constantly monitors the direction of travel providing a smooth braking system. It will operate from either 12V or 24V vehicle systems without the need for manual selection or extra components or wiring. 100% compatible with ALKO stability control system.
INSTALL INSTRUCTIONS • Position the Redarc module under one of the front seats, use the supplied Velcro strip applied to the base of the unit to hold it in position to the vehicles carpet lining. The facing direction is not important like other brake units as this is self-calibrating. • Connect the 4 wire plug cable and the remote head • Position the remote head in the vehicle cup holder or alternative position which is reachable by the driver. • Run the 5m length of cable to the rear of the vehicle and connect the yellow plug to the adaptor. • Please keep in mind the Redarc Tow Pro Elite unit is self-calibrating and it will calibrate each and every time the 12v power disconnects. • Please refer to the user manual for complete operational instructions.
TEKONSHA PRIMUS IQ - $350 INC GST PLUS POSTAGE
A totally proportional electric trailer brake control which is self-levelling so no level adjustment is necessary. With its LED voltage display and ALKO stability control compatibility this kit is by far the best solution at this pricing level. Boost feature that gives users the ability to apply more initial trailer braking when towing heavier trailers. It works proportionally in reverse Removable electrical connector that allows the unit to be quickly stored when not in use. Digital readout showing voltage delivery to the trailer brakes 100% compatible with ALKO stability control system.
ORDER YOURS TODAY
https://caravanandcampinghire.com.au/product/redarc-tow-pro-elite-portable-brake-units/
FAQ What are Silwy Glasses made from
Here are the most common questions we get asked about the Sundowner Glasses range.
?
The 250ml cups are made from a high quality Poly-carbonate, the magnet is embedded in the base of the cup so it doesn't have any contact with the liquid. The Beer, wine, Champagne and tall and small drink glasses are made from Bavarian Crystal glass. They also have the magnet elegantly embedded in the base.
How do Silwy Glasses work
?
The elegant design has a very simple yet innovative principle, there is a magnet enclosed in the base of the glass, The Stay-Put coaster is made form non slip gel with an integrated metal layer. Once they come in contact with each other the magnet sticks to the coaster.
How does the coaster stay in place
?
The coaster is made of a non slip sticky covering. It can be placed on any surface and it will stick. The coaster can be removed and moved as many times as needed and it will never leave a sticky residue once moved. if it get dust and grime on the sticky side just wipe it off under running water to restore it to as it was on day one. It will never run out of stickiness.
Where are they made?
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Silwy glasses are German designed and Manufactured. The glasses are imported into Australia directly from the manufacturer to the Silwy Australia warehouse.
How big are the glasses
?
All the glasses are different sized starting from 205ml up to 400ml. Check the products page for the dimensions for the glass you want to buy.
Is it really that simple
? Yes it is!
Do they actually work
?
Yes, have a look at the video on our home page to show the glasses being used
Will they stick anywhere
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Yes, Anywhere the Stay-Put coaster is placed or on a metal surface. We have a number of different accessories for securing your Silwy glasses.
Where can i stick the coaster?
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Anywhere that has a flat surface and is not too rough.
How long will it stay sticky
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Forever, if the coaster get some dust on it or a slight loss of stickiness just clean it under running water.
How strong are the poly-carbonate cups?
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Virtually un-breakable! that's right you can drop them on a hard surface and they will just bounce, not break.
Dose the magnet make contact with the liquid in the drink?
?
No, It is embedded within the glass or poly-carbonate so it will not effect your drink ever.
www.silwyglass.com.au | 0418674875 | info@silwyglass.com.au
Rolled Pork Roast with Crispy Crackling Ingredients
Serves: 8 Cooking Time: 2 hours
• 2kg rolled pork - scored and tied • Olive oil • Salt flakes *Ensure the baking dish is BBQ proof
Method 1.Set up your grill for indirect cooking (Refer to the product manual) 2.Place the pork in a large dish and pour boiling water from a kettle directly onto the scored skin. 3.Transfer the pork to a BBQ proof baking dish and pat dry with a paper towel. 4.Drizzle with olive oil and rub into the score marks. 5.Sprinkle with salt flakes and rub into the score marks. 6.Once the BBQ is pre-heated, place the baking dish onto the grill as per manual instructions. Cook at 250 degrees for 10 minutes. The high heat will help the skin start to crackle. 7.After 10 minutes, reduce the heat to 190 degress and cook for approx. 1 hour per kilo. 8.For the final 10 minutes, turn the burners back up to 250 degrees to finish off the crackling. This will ensure the crackling is crunchy.
Yakitori Chicken Skewers Ingredients • 80 ml soy sauce • 2 tablespoons sugar
• 500g boneless and skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 6 green onions, chopped into 4 cm lengths
• 2 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 18 shiitake mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon finely grated garlic
• Toasted sesame seeds, to serve
Method 1. Soak 8 bamboo skewers in a shallow dish of cold water for at least 30 minutes, then drain. 2. Place the soy sauce, ginger, sugar, honey, and garlic in a large saucepan set over medium heat. Bring to the boil, stir to combine, then remove from the heat and cool completely. 3. Pour the cooled marinade over the chicken, toss to combine and set aside to marinate for 1 hour or overnight in the fridge. 4. Thread 3 – 4 pieces of chicken, the shiitake mushrooms and green onions alternately onto a skewer. Continue with the remaining chicken and vegetables. 5. Preheat the barbeque or grill plate on high. Grill the skewered chicken, basting it with the marinade until the chicken is cooked through. 6. Place the marinade in a saucepan and bring to the boil, then simmer for 2 – 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from the heat and transfer to a small serving bowl. 7. To serve, drizzle the chicken skewers with the sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds
Pulled Beef Rolls with Barbeque Sauce Ingredients • 750g piece beef rump • 6 long crusty bread rolls • Barbeque Sauce • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 fresh long red chilli, chopped finely
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar • 1½ cups (420g) tomato sauce (ketchup) • 1½ tablespoons worcestershire sauce • 2 cups (500ml) water • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
Method 1. Place garlic, chilli, sugar, sauces, water and vinegar in roasting pan. Stir well to combine; add beef and turn to coat in mixture. 2. Close the hood and preheat the barbeque with the burners set to HIGH and the hood down until the hood thermometer reads around 200°C/400°F. Set up your barbeque for indirect cooking. 3. Cover beef tightly with foil. Roast, covered, on LOW, for about 2 hours. 4. Carefully remove beef; shred meat coarsely using two forks. 5. Transfer sauce mixture to large saucepan, bring to the boil over medium heat. Boil, uncovered, for about 10 minutes or until thickened. Stir in beef. 6. Split rolls in half horizontally. Sandwich beef and sauce mixture between rolls. SERVING SUGGESTION Fill rolls with beef mixture, lettuce, cheddar and pickled peppers.
Grilled Salmon with Couscous & Yogurt Dressing Ingredients • 4 x 180g salmon fillet, skin removed and pin boned • 2 cups couscous • 2 cup water • 12 cherry tomatoes, sliced in half • 4 spring onion, sliced thinly • 2 red chili, sliced thinly • 2 red onion, sliced thinly
Serves: 4 Cooking Time 6 - 10 minutes
• salt • pepper • oil • 1 cup plain yogurt • 1 lemon, juiced
Tips: Half way through cooking the salmon turn 90 degrees to get the criss-cross bar marking on the flesh
Method 1. Preheat the bbq with the burners on high with the hood down to 200 degrees, then turn the burner off on the side not being used. 2. Add boiled water to the couscous and cover, leave for 2-3 minutes. Once the water has been absorbed, fluff with a fork and add a little oil to keep it from sticking. 3. Once the couscous cools add the tomatoes, spring onion, chili and red onion. Season with salt and pepper and mix. 4. Lightly oil the grills to prevent sticking. Oil and season the salmon and place on the hot grill, cook for 3 minutes. Turn over and cook for a further 3 minutes. 5. Mix the yogurt and lemon juice together and pour over the couscous salad. 6. Place cooked salmon on to
A pause in the Pilbara
At the moment we are based in Karratha in the Pilbara. We’ve been here a couple of months now and plan to be based here for a while to top up the funds before we plan the next stage of our adventure. Life in Karratha means we’ve moved out of the van for a bit and into a cabin in the Discovery Park. We made this decision for two reasons, the heat and the potential of a cyclone, even though the locals will tell you there is a dome over Karratha that prevents rain and cyclones from having any impact over the heat and humidity, which so far has been relentless.
Having the extra space is pretty good too, just quietly. In the short time we’ve been here though we’ve visited nearby Dampier a couple of times, been out to Python Pool at Millstream Chichester National Park, and discovered Hearson’s Cove, in between our work and school commitments. The Pilbara is an incredible location, alongside the obvious visual impact from the ports and mining industries, there is some amazing landscape. The Pilbara region stretches from the
coast to the border of the Northern Territory, so its got a bit of everything and will take us a bit to explore everything we want to see. Karratha City does have a beach, but its more somewhere to launch a boat from than to frolic in the ocean. And just about everyone in Karratha has a boat! There are several beaches close by though. Dampier is only 15km from Karratha, and is the home of Red Dog.
Just about every Australian will be familiar with the story of the Pilbara wanderer, a red kelpie who roamed the area in the 1970s, hitchhiking to surrounding areas, owned by no one in particular but loved by many. There is a lot around Dampier to keep his memory alive.
fishing and a few pretty good lunch spots, like the Yacht Club. Dampier sits in the Burrup Peninsula, which has a very rich history for the Yaburara people and includes one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Aboriginal rock carvings.
also need to get to Hearson’s Cove. It’s a tidal beach, also sheltered and a great safe swimming beach for the kids. However, one of the most spectacular shows I’ve ever seen mother nature deliver appears here at full moon from April to October.
Dampier is a lovely calm beach, which is great for the kids to splash around. Its also a launch spot to explore the group of islands in the Dampier Archipelago and has some great
There are some fantastic Karratha locals who can guide you out to some of the sites, or you can hike through the national park on your own and explore.While exploring this area you
The staircase to the moon is beautiful. With the tide out over Hearson’s Cove, the reflection over the mudflats resembles a staircase right up to the moon. It really is magical.
Another popular local swimming hole is Python Pool, which is at Millstream Chichester National Park around 150km from Karratha. So far this is as much as we’ve seen of this amazing national park but there is so much more to explore here. Python Pool is a fantastic for families. It’s easy to get to and just a short walk
from the carpark into a beautiful natural rock pool, that is surrounded by amazing red ochre cliffs. I’m also told that after rain its incredible to be there and see the waterfalls flowing. We’ve really only started to scratch the surface of what there is to see and do here, so it’s looking like we may have to stay a while so we don’t miss anything!
Tiffin Allegro Breeze 33IBR
You now also have the option of with a King or Queen sized bed. The kitchen has also increased in size and now features a cooktop with griller to go with the convection oven.
We’re super excited to introduce our newest member of the Tiffin family - The 33IBR! Featuring an all new floor plan! We now have 3 slide outs including one in the bedroom which has drastically increased bedroom space!
The living area has the choice of either a 2 seater workstation (pictured) or a booth dinette. The sofa bed is another of the many changes you’ll find in our new floor plan. Instead of scissoring like the previous model, it folds out like a conventional sofa bed. It also features an air mattress.
It’s got all the features you need like 5kw Cummins generator, full air ride suspension with auto levelling feature, dual ducted rooftop air cons, automatic satellite, 3x LED Smart TVs including one outside under the huge electric patio awning, 218L 12V compressor fridge freezer, 2x 200W solar panels, 4000W inverter, 430a/h
AGM battery bank and loads more! Along with the new floor plan 2018 saw the introduction of the new ZF independent front suspension. Put simply, this coach rolled off the production line RIGHT HAND DRIVE.
have improved out of sight. Driving a Breeze is now like driving a car!!
Not only is that a huge plus but the new front end features disc brakes instead of drums and the handling characteristics
Further details can be found on our website and we
have lotsof new stock arriving over the next 3 months!
Get in touch to begin ‘Roughing it Smoothly’.
Murray Robertson 0416 080 127 murray@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au
Alex Rees-Hyde 0411 616 617 alex@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au
P. 07 5563 2559 | E. service@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au www.tiffinmotorhomes.com.au
ABOUT US We are racers, we hang for the week and whatever event we are traveling to. Buy your gear from like-minded people and know that we only sell products that we personally use. Race Wheels Australia is the Australian distributor of Method Race Wheels and KC HiLites. We are available to chat about any product or racing questions. Call or email us to discuss your next purchase.
THE HOME OF METHOD RACE WHEELS & KC HILITES
07 3285 8456 • 0419 161 193 www.racewheelsaust.com 48 Paisley Drive Lawnton info@racewheelsaust.com
By Layla Grigaliunas
One thing I enjoyed on the trip was Easter. Our first Easter on the road was in Congo, New South Wales. Libby and I had the chance to set up the tent and sleep in it. It was our first time setting up the tent on the whole trip. Libby and I were very excited because we had never set up a tent by ourselves before. I mean, who wouldn't be exited by that? After an hour Dad actually had to come to our rescue because we couldn't figure out how to put it up, and it was still a heap of poles and fabric lying on the grass. But you have to give us credit. We tried, we really tried. Soon after setting up we managed to make a few friends, and they were showing us how to do a few tricks on our scooters. Although I did fall off my scooter trying to totally nail it, nail it, I did... in the end. ( Trust me, you do NOT want to know how long it took. )
There are lots of things to do at Congo, like SUPing and swimming and climbing trees... all sorts of stuff. A stuff we did with our friends. We had never made any friends outside Brisbane. But, when we tried, we managed to make lots of new friends. Although, travelling makes it hard to keep in touch. You go one way and they go another. The worst part of travelling is not when your car breaks down, it's not when your shoes are wet and your pants have sand in them, (although that is a close second) it's when you have to go to a different place and leave the fun behind.
Peace of mind servicing for your next trip Peace of mind servicing for your next trip, unexpected repairs Unexpected repairs Peace of mind servicing for your next trip & reliable part sourcing & installing Reliable part sourcing & installing Unexpected repairs You can’t go past us for all your repair & servicing needs. & installing YouReliable can't gopart pastsourcing us for all your repair
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SERVICES retailrepairs insurance warranty
manager@caravanrepaircompany.com.au 10 Greg Chappell Drive, Burleigh Heads Servicing Brisbane, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Lismore, Byron Bay, Ballina
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