BNE Magazine Issue 19 by Brisbane Airport

FR EE YO M UR AG AZ IN E

ISSUE #19 MARCH/APRIL 2017

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Welcome to your free BNE magazine, brought to you by Brisbane Airport

CONTENTS 5

Brisbane Airport News

BNE named in World’s Top 20 airports; new route to Orange; passenger numbers soar at BNE; Air Canada’s new look

Brisbane Insider

Stars to stop violence; teenage entrepreneur at World Science Festival; Tibet Festival and more

Jessica Mauboy

Australia’s favourite daughter starts a national tour

STYLE 12 Autumn glow

Amazing portrait transformations

ESCAPE 14 San Francisco

Celebrate the Summer of Love 50 years after the hippie revolution

Win airfares to San Francisco

Your chance to take off to California’s harbour city

Taste of Orange

A new wine region to explore just two hours from Brisbane

Whitsunday dreaming

Why people don’t want to leave Long Island

Escape extra

London’s hip new hotels; sailing a Mediterranean food trail; cycling Japan’s northern frontier, and more

he way to a traveller’s heart, it seems, is through their stomachs. Tourism research shows that food has become one of the key influences in where people decide to go. It’s a a travel trend that has been gaining momentum for the past couple of years and its effects seen from the airport – Brisbane Airport is at the forefront of championing local produce at its cafés and bars (see p28) – to country towns that are seeing a steady stream of city folk beating a path to their farm gates (find out about the new gourmet go-to now just two hours from Brisbane on p18). Your inspiration starts here...

FOOD & DRINK 26 Focus on Queensland flavours 28

Chefs Andy and Ben’s excellent food adventure; fig cocktails; tables turned on convention dining and more

Paddock to plate Cafés and bars at Brisbane Airport showcase local produce

WHAT’S ON 30 Festivals in the air

20 18

Comedy, country music and creative performance all take to the stage for a bumper festival season; music to Harry Potter’s ears; raw dance talent, and more

Events Calendar Find out what’s happening around the city here

MY BRISBANE 36 Mel Buttle

The comedian shares her favourite places

BOOKS 37 10 good reads

From Helen Razer’s 100 dates in a year to Meg and Tom Keneally’s next instalment in the Monsarrat series there’s a book to suit any journey

GALLERY 39 Day in the life

People at Brisbane Airport

NEED TO KNOW 38 Helpful information for

40 43

visitors to Brisbane Airport Destination map Brisbane metro map

12 BNE magazine is published bi-monthly by Brisbane Airport Corporation Brisbane Airport Corporation Media and Corporate Communications Manager: Leonie Vandeven Managing Editor: Heather McWhinnie email: editor@bnemagazine.com.au Designer: Stephen Bryett Advertising sales: Chris May, call 0401 312 312 or email: advertising@bnemagazine.com.au ©2017 Brisbane Airport Corporation. The contents of this publication are not for reproduction, redistribution or reuse by any means whatsoever or in any form whatsoever without express permission of the publisher. Advertising: all advertisements in BNE magazine are the responsibility of advertisers. Advertising is accepted on the understanding that it does not contravene the Trade Practices Act. Responsibility is not accepted by BNE magazine for statements made or the failure of any product or service to give satisfaction. The publication of any material or editorial does not necessarily constitute endorsement of views or opinions expressed. While every effort is made to avoid errors, some information contained in the publication may be superceded.

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BAC NEWS

BNE JOINS WORLD TOP 20 Brisbane Airport has been named one of the world’s top 20 airports by global aviation industry publication International Airport Review and it is the only Australian airport to make the list. Brisbane is fast becoming known as “the world’s most liveable airport” since a $45 million makeover of its International Terminal which was completed more than a year ago, and while a picnic between the palm trees or reclining on sun lounges may not be what you’d expect to see at an airport, that’s exactly what passengers can do while waiting for a flight at Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal. New airline passenger lounges, a wellness spa and cafés offering menus that showcase the best of Queensland’s local produce are just some of the highlights that make travel through Brisbane Airport International Terminal more pleasant. It joined the list alongside Hong Kong International Airport, Korea’s Incheon International Airport, Seoul, Singapore’s Changi Airport and Dubai International Airport – all destinations accessible direct from Brisbane.

APPLICATIONS OPEN for community grants Each year Brisbane Airport Corporation distributes about $1 million to specialty groups, schools and charities of all sizes for community-based projects in the arts, education, science, sports, health and more. Applications are now open until 31 March for the next round of grants from the airport’s Community Giving Fund. Find out how to apply at www.bne.com.au/community-giving-fund

ORANGE

the new getaway

Regional airline Fly Corporate has introduced direct flights between Brisbane and Orange in New South Wales departing Monday to Friday. Just two hours flight time from BNE, the new route not only provides a practical alternative for Orange locals to access domestic and international connections from Brisbane, it also provides a link to the New South Wales country towns of Bathurst, Cowra, Parkes, Canowindra, Forbes, Lithgow and surrounds. But while the flights are a boon for business, Orange is also becoming a popular short break destination for its excellent cool climate vineyards, colonial buildings and heritage walks, a growing number of cafés and bars, as well as surrounding farm gates and wilderness trails to explore (read more about a getaway in Orange on page 18). Fly direct between Brisbane and Orange, NSW, with Fly Corporate. See wwwflycorporate.com.au

NEW LOOK FOR

AIR CANADA

Air Canada has unveiled a new livery designed by creative agency Winkcreative under the direction of Tyler Brûlé who also acted as design consultant on the bold redevelopment of Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal. The striking black and white design highlights Canada’s iconic red maple leaf in a circle that returns to the tail of the carrier’s fleet after an absence of 24 years. More than a simple logo, the design is said to reflect Canada’s vastness and contrasting seasons, with references to its wildlife and First Nations heritage. New uniforms have also been designed for flight and cabin crew and new menus introduced for flights from April. Air Canada operates daily direct flights between Brisbane and Vancouver. See www.aircanada.com

BNE welcomes more travellers

New airlines, direct services, upgraded of aircraft and increased flights between Brisbane and several global destinations all boosted the number of international passengers through Brisbane Airport (BNE) in the past year. Numbers soared by almost 256,000 to more than 5.4 million international travellers while domestic passengers increased more than 280,000 to above 17.2 million. Total passengers through BNE are now close to 22.7 million a year. New services that helped boost traveller numbers through BNE include: 1. Air Canada’s daily services between BNE and Vancouver 2. China Eastern’s four times weekly services between BNE and Shanghai 3. Qantas’ new daily services between BNE and Christchurch and BNE and Port Moresby 4. Singapore Airlines, Philippine Airlines, EVA Air and China Airlines all increased their services between BNE and their home ports 5. Etihad Airways upgraded to B789 aircraft 6. Regional Airline Fly Corporate launched new routes between BNE and Coffs Harbour, Armidale, Narrabri, Moree and Tamworth while Jetgo added Albury to its network from BNE.

EXTRA FLIGHTS FOR TIGERAIR Tigerair has added an extra A320 aircraft to its fleet based in Brisbane to service new flights on key routes. The airline will introduce four times weekly return services between BNE and Whitsunday Coast starting 23 March and between BNE and Perth from 1 June. One way fares will range from $79 to Whitsunday Coast to $189 to Perth. See www.tigerair.com.au

BNE March/April 2017 | 5

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BRISBANE INSIDER

IN A MILLION

s Queensland counts down to the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in 2018 thousands of amateur weavers are counting their lucky stars … stars they are making from ribbons as part of a unique project that will see its culmination by the time the Games begin. The project is the brainchild of Maryann Talia Pau who launched One Million Stars in 2012 and she says her disciples are well on their way to reaching their goal. For Maryann it began as a very personal response to the death of Jill Meagher – a brutal murder that received national media attention at the time. It happened around the corner from Maryann’s studio and her neighbourhood church. “There was such an outpouring of grief and anger, I’d never seen anything like it before,” she says. It had such a profound effect on the community Maryann was inspired to act and, as an artisan weaver with several notable exhibitions to her name, she did what came naturally – she went to her studio and started to weave stars as a symbol to end violence. When she asked others to join her in solidarity

the goal became One Million Stars to engage communities in the conversation about ending all forms of violence. “It’s not just about ending violence against women, it’s about bullying, racism, violence against the earth, all forms of violence in the community,” she says. While Maryann is now based in Brisbane the One Million Stars project has taken on global proportions and she has travelled around the country and the world to visit communities supporting the project – not only in Commonwealth nations but also other countries such as the US and Africa. However, it is Queensland that so far has enlisted the most communities as star weavers. The Museum of Brisbane at City Hall has set a local goal to make 10,000 stars by July this year and has opened its Dome Lounge to anyone who wants to join the weaving circle between 10am and 5pm daily. According to Maryann it takes three to 10 minutes to make a star and instructions as well as information on how to join or start a Star Weave Community is at www.onemillionstars.net

DESIGN ON THE EDGE There’s no doubt that the site for this house presented a challenge for Brisbane architect Joe Adsett – small frontage, triangular plot, an existing ‘character’ house already on site and a cliff face for a boundary. Nevertheless the potential for dramatic views over the river from Teneriffe and the angular shape of the block itself was inspiration enough for this spectacular home. The Clifftop House (pictured) is just one of the entries in the Brisbane Regional Architecture Awards – ahead of state and national awards later in the year – which will be judged on 28 April. Meanwhile entries across 11 categories from residential and interior architecture to commercial and urban design will be on display 7-28 April at the Australian Institute of Architects, Level 1, 70 Merivale Street, South Brisbane.

BNE March/April 2017 | 7

BRISBANE INSIDER

THE FUTURE IS IN GOOD HANDS

“From suspended schoolboy to educational pioneer” is how teenage entrepreneur Taj Pabari (pictured above) describes himself on his own website before going on to say that he “is living proof that anyone with determination and passion can change the world”. At 17 the 2017 Queensland Young Australian of the Year is well on his way. Inspired by people like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates Pabari started his first business when he was 11 and launched his latest business, the social enterprise Fiftysix Creations, at 14. Pabari has indeed shown a passion and determination that most people would find daunting: getting

“An absolute must see. Great show. Great cast. Great food. Awesome venue.” - Tammy S, Tripadvisor.

8 | BNE March/April 2017

up at 4am every day to attend to business before heading off to school – it’s not surprising he almost got expelled – admitting he was more focussed on how he could change the world than on his schoolwork. Now he runs a small empire supported by a team of investors, mentors, managers and contractors to help him reach his goal. Pabari created a build-it-yourself tablet and coding kit for kids aged 6 to 16, and through Fiftysix Creations it is sold to schools and the company hosts workshops to encourage students to take an active part in technology not just be consumers of it. However, Pabari’s goal is not just to sell kits. He wants to be able to give children in remote and disadvantaged communities access to technology as well. He told 60 Minutes that as technology took over the world all children should have, at the very least, basic computer coding skills. “We’re doing a disservice to the future of our kids, our country and our economy if we’re not educating them properly about how to use this technology,” he said. In partnership with the Foundation for Young Australians Pabari and Fiftysix Creations have so far educated more than 45,000 students around Australia and overseas, including Third World nations – their goal is one million by 2020. Pabari will join a panel discussion at World Science Festival, The Future is in Good Hands, on 24 March at the Conservatorium Theatre, Griffith University, South Brisbane. See www.worldsciencefestival.com.au

PRINT YOUR

WISHES

Most people might see them only in film clips of base camp at Mt Everest but prayer flags are a tradition that dates back to ancient Tibet and they carry important spiritual meaning. The flags are printed with messages of peace, compassion, prosperity or happiness to share with the world and Buddhists believe that, as they blow in the breeze, those messages are carried on the wind to benefit all perceptive beings. At the Festival of Tibet a prayer flag workshop will show how to make them using traditional hand-carved woodblocks, just one of several free activities that will be part of the festival from 26-30 April at Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm. There are also ticketed events for concerts, cooking, singing bowl, painting and calligraphy workshops, panel discussions and talks to provide an insight to the culture and funds raised will be donated to the Tibetan Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Villages schools in India. For the program see www.brisbanepowerhouse.org

Discover the secrets of the universe at the

Enjoy a show in the Cosmic Skydome and take a tour of the night sky with an astronomer. For more information call the Planetarium on (07) 3403 2578 or visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/planetarium

BNE March/April 2017 | 9

COVER STORY

She’s won our hearts as we’ve watched her grow from reality show runner-up to star on stage and screen, writes Chris Herden

jessica mauboy J

F AV O U R I T E D A U G H T E R

essica Mauboy is a hot ticket right now. Following the first season success of the television series The Secret Daughter, in which she starred, her soundtrack album Songs from the Original Series – The Secret Daughter debuted at number one in the ARIA album charts, a first for an Indigenous artist and she is soon to start a national tour. The 27-year-old all-round talent hasn’t put a foot wrong since wowing the nation in Australian Idol a decade ago. Mauboy was the first artist from outside Europe to sing as a guest at Eurovision; she has performed at black-tie events for Obama and Oprah, toured with Beyoncé, partnered in the studio with renowned rappers Snoop Dogg and Flo Rida, and launched a signature fragrance. Now she’s collecting accolades for her performance in the series that was written especially for her, the first Indigenous lead actor in a scripted drama on commercial television. Channel Seven came knocking on Mauboy’s door with the story idea for The Secret Daughter following her stand-out performance as one of The Sapphires in the film of the same name, a true story about an Indigenous girl group in the 1960s that shipped off to Vietnam to entertain the troops. In The Secret Daughter Mauboy plays Billie Carter, a part-time country pub singer whose chance meeting with a rich hotelier raises questions about her past and triggers a series of events that changes Billie’s life. Naturally, the series is loaded with great songs that Mauboy’s character sings in the show and a second series is set to air later this year. Mauboy is immensely proud of her work in The Secret Daughter and 10 10 || BNE BNE September/October March/April 2016 2016

the role she has played in helping to propel Indigenous faces to the forefront of popular culture. She put in long hours at the recording studio too. It was important to her that the album was about Billie, not Jessica. “I just had to go into the studio and sing the songs as Billie Carter would. The little imperfections are really what make this album so interesting and honest – music the way she would have recorded it. Billie’s had to struggle and live off fruit picking, working in a bakery and as a back-up singer in a pub band. She’s a strong young woman. She’s always helping everyone else. I like how respectful she is to every person who comes into her life.” Mauboy says there are similarities between the character’s journey and her own. “Billie’s journey mirrors mine in some ways, in terms of breaking into the music industry and our shared backgrounds. Don’t get me wrong, a lot of the story is character-driven, but I went into my own experiences to allow that expression to evolve,” she says. However, Mauboy found herself admiring her character’s particular sense of strength. “In life I’m not a tough cookie like Billie. She’s rough around the edges, but she’s okay with that and doesn’t care what people think – I like that. Coming into the entertainment industries you can get really caught up in what people think about you, and I love that she has an independent spirit and self-determination of sorts.” Mauboy has Indonesian and Aboriginal heritage, her mother Therese is an Indigenous Australian from the Kuku Yalanji people of the rainforest regions of Far North Queensland, and she has four sisters. She grew up in Darwin in the Northern Territory singing in the church choir and

I’m not a tough cookie like Billie ... Coming into the entertainment industries you can get really caught up in what people think about you

surrounded by music at home, which earned a reputation as “the noisiest house on the block”. At the end of March Jessica embarks on an eight-date All the Hits Live Australian tour, where she will perform a back catalogue of songs that mark her extraordinary rise to become one of our most loved and talented entertainers. The tour comes on the back of the launch of the The Secret Daughter album which will also feature in the concerts. Original tracks ‘Risk It’ and ‘Home to Me’ are heartfelt and Mauboy confesses that ‘Closer’ particularly resonates with her “...the lyrics made me cry. There’s so much emotion in the song and there’s a real sense of heartache and of wanting someone to feel the same way you do.” The whole album packs the Mauboy punch – there are some rousing cover versions of R&B classics and great pub songs like ‘Better Be Home Soon’ (Jessica says when she was a kid her mother would have the song playing constantly) and the Cold Chisel song ‘Flame Trees’ which reminds her of her Darwin home. “I just remember being in the ute with my parents driving around the bush to visit communities. It’s a song that has really strong memories for me. I would love to hear what Jimmy Barnes thinks of the version.” Jessica Mauboy’s All the Hits Live tour plays at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane on 10 April. Tickets from $81.40 plus fees at www.ticketek.com.au

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STYLE

hotographer Megan Rizzo finds inspiration in the simplest things. Seeing a beautiful tree, for example, on her drive to her studio every morning, sparked the idea for her latest portrait series created around the seasons. And it all began with autumn. When Rizzo saw her tree and its changing leaves scattered on the ground she didn’t just admire it and keep going, she knocked on the door of the house and asked if she could collect a bucketful of the leaves. The owners were only too happy to oblige and she was soon testing a few portraits on her leaf-strewn floor, creating works for her own satisfaction. She won a few awards for her efforts and people started asking her if they could be in the picture. By the next autumn Rizzo was shooting her ‘Goddesses of the Seasons’, hand-picking leaves fresh for every shoot. No two backgrounds or costumes are the same and Rizzo styles all her own shoots. She admits she’s quite a collector – she’s been collecting costumes from all over the world for more than 20 years. She has circus jackets found during a holiday in New York, a wedding dress from the 1980s that has ‘starred’ in her Winter shoots, embellished with leaves painted white or lace added; there’s an opera coat, lingerie and evening dresses from the 1950s and dresses found in op shops. She makes all the headdresses, paints different backgrounds and created a multicoloured flower wall for her Summer backdrop. Before every shoot there’s a discussion with the subject about what colours they like and ideas about their ‘look’ then the shoot is a full-day affair with hair and makeup, styling, champagne and chocolates, light lunch and the photo shoot. For Rizzo, the editing process afterwards can take 10 hours for a single image to create a print that is a work of art. “When women come in they are often terrified, unsure and nervous, but they leave with a completely different energy. They feel on top of the world, like the most beautiful woman ever created. That’s what I love about what I do, you’re actually having an effect and it’s long lasting because they have the prints to take away.”

autumnglow

12 | BNE March/April 2017

There should be 1000 words in one image. It should portray a story without me saying anything and every image will get a different reaction but that’s what you want from art – you want an emotional reaction

See Megan Rizzo’s work at www.studiofascino.com Makeup and hair by Dead Gorgeous Hair and Make-up Styling www.deadgorgeouscosmetics.com BNE March/April 2017 | 13

ESCAPE

Golden Gate Bridge

RELIVE THE This year marks the 50th anniversary of the hippie uprising in San Francisco which became known as the Summer of Love and once again the city is ready to celebrate. Here are just some of the ways to get that lovinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feelingâ&#x20AC;Ś

14 | BNE March/April 2017

Houses in Haight-Ashbury

Pier 39

1. EVOLUTION OF THE MOVEMENT Hippie Modernism: The Struggle for Utopia is an exhibit at the Berkeley Art Museum Pacific Film Archive until 21 May focusing on the art, design and architecture of the hippie counterculture. Loosely organised around the mantra “Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out” the exhibition charts the evolution of the movement, from pharmacological, technological and spiritual means to expand consciousness and alter one’s perception of reality. See www.bampfa.berkeley.edu/

2. PARTY ON THE PIER Pier 39, a tourist attraction on any day of the week with its sea lion centre, aquarium, two levels of shopping, dining and carnival attractions, shares the love with a ’60s dance party featuring a Beatles cover band and more groovy stuff on 23 June. Meanwhile the Hard

Haight Street

Rock Café has a display of memorabilia from the Summer of Love, including guitars on the wall, photos of musicians prominent in the day, such as Jerry Garcia, and framed concert fliers from the 1960s. See www.pier39.com and www.hardrock.com

3. ROCK ART The de Young Museum showcases rock posters, light shows, music and pictures from musicians including the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane in Summer of Love: Art, Fashion, and Rock & Roll from 8 April to 20 August. See www.deyoung.famsf.org/ exhibitions/summer-love

4. FUN OF THE FAIRS The 18th annual How Weird Street Faire: The Summer of Weird on 7 May downtown at Howard and Second Streets is a gathering to celebrate peace, dance in the streets and explore exhibits, world class music (on 11 stages),

visionary art and creative wares in a tribute this year to the cultural pioneers “that inspired us and paved the way forward”. For more information see www.howweird.org The Haight-Ashbury Street Fair on the second weekend in June is also a mix of music, art and crafts, food booths and more. The fair began in 1978 with the help of gay rights activist and politician Harvey Milk (portrayed by Sean Penn in the 2008 movie Milk) to celebrate the neighbourhood’s diversity in a community event and has been supported by local groups, artisans and vendors ever since. Over the Golden Gate Bridge the Marin County Fair: Let the Fun Shine In celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love and the spirit of 1967 with music, art, fashion and more featuring tie-dye and macrame competitions, Flower Power horticulture, Groovy/Psychedelic and Abstract art and photography, daily ’60s fashion parades, carnival rides, free concerts and fireworks every night from 30 June to 4 July BNE March/April 2017 | 15

ESCAPE

5. PICTURES TELL THE STORY Look at pictures from 1967 at the California Historical Society from 11 May to 8 September in an exhibition called Summer of Love: A Photographic Journey. For more information see www.californiahistoricalsociety.org

6. SOUNDS LIKE THE SUMMER OF LOVE

City Lights Bookstore

The Monterey International Pop Festival will be held on the same dates as it was in the Summer of Love – 16-18 June – and on the same stage – the John Phillips Memorial Main Stage at the Monterey County Fair Grounds. A dozen bands will appear each day, most of them tribute bands playing songs of the ’60s. From 13-24 July 12 pianos will be placed around the San Francisco Botanical Garden for anyone to play during the Flower Piano Summer of Love and on 21 July there will be a public sing-along featuring some of the greatest songs of 1967 by the Beatles, Jefferson Airplane, Aretha Franklin and more. For information www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/flowerpiano

7. A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN San Francisco is home to more than 300 resident theatre companies but the Tony Awardwinning American Conservatory Theatre, founded in 1965, is the largest. Its production of hit Broadway musical A Night with Janis Joplin 7 June to 2 July, celebrating the musician and her influences will be a must-see for anyone in the city at that time. See www.act-sf.org

8. REMEMBER JERRY The Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia is honoured with his own day on 6 August at McLaren Park – at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater, of course – when live bands will pay tribute Jerry’s talent with their own covers of his songs.

Jammin On Haight

9. LIVE AT THE FILLMORE

12. BAR STOP

The Fillmore is a ballroom with a long history of helping to launch the musical careers of major acts like the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Jimi Hendrix and more, which is probably why Hunter S. Thompson even mentioned it as an example of the 1960s counterculture in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. It continues to play host to musicians across generations today from Willie Nelson to Laura Marling. See www.thefillmore.com

Once referred to as the “Holy Shrine of the Dry Martini” Persian cocktail bar Aub Zam Zam represents a special piece of city history. Once known for everything from the best place in San Francisco to score a reefer to where Janis Joplin, The Doors and the members of Jefferson Airplane hung out, the owner back in the day (and since passed away), Bruno Mooshei, was so ornery that it became a game among patrons to see who could stay in the bar the longest. Bruno would throw someone out for something as trivial as putting the wrong song on the jukebox or not ordering a drink he liked. Today, it’s certainly friendlier. At 1633 Haight Street, Haight-Ashbury.

10. BUY TIE-DYE Jammin On Haight evokes the essence of the Summer of Love, tie-dye t-shirts, vibrant bell bottoms and all. It might be only a few years old but this store is impossible to miss with its bright, psychedelic vibe. It also showcases artwork by Jerry Garcia as well as a great selection of bright tapestries. Find it at 1400 Haight Street, Haight-Ashbury.

The Grateful Dead 16 | BNE March/April 2017

Photography by Ashley Netzband

11. FOLLOW IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS Peter Coyote, an activist during the Summer of Love, narrates a Detour tour through the Haight, starting at the Panhandle then on down Haight, Ashbury, Page, Cole and other nearby streets that represent the hippie trail of the Summer of Love. See www.detour.com The Flower Power Walking Tour covers 12 blocks of sites that Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia and friends made famous during the Summer of Love. For details see www.haightashburytour.com The Free Love Tour goes through HaightAshbury accompanied by music from the Summer of Love by artists including Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead and more. See www.wildsftours.com

13. EAT CHINESE From the 1950s Sam Wo’s was a popular hangout for members of the Beat Generation who frequented the restaurant to order from its ‘secret menu’ and not even its notorious server, Edsel Ford Fung, who earned the title ‘world’s rudest waiter’ from a local newspaper columnist could keep them away. At 813 Washington Street, Chinatown.

14. BOARD THE LOVE BUS Hop on a hippie bus for a San Francisco Love Tour and explore local landmarks such as Haight-Ashbury, the Castro, Mission Dolores, Golden Gate Park and Chinatown. You can also arrange a private tour or a night tour to see the city lights. See www.sanfranciscolovetours.com or www.magicbussf.com

15. PICNIC IN THE PANHANDLE The Panhandle, a park at the northern end of Haigh-Ashbury on Oak Street, became the site of a peaceful protest against the banning of LSD on 6 October 1966 when thousands gathered

16. FLOWER POWER San Francisco is the home of flower power and you can see why at the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park where more than 2000 flowers are on show. So stop and smell the flowers during your own Summer of Love; flower in the hair optional. For more information see www.conservatoryofflowers.org

17. JOIN THE DRUM CIRCLE Hippie Hill in Golden Gate Park is the site of spontaneous ‘drumming’. Pack a picnic and prepare to people-watch while listening to impromptu performances.

18. DISCOVER THE BEAT MUSEUM The museum showcases memorabilia focusing on Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg and other authors from the Beat Generation who

influenced the attitude of the Summer of Love. Find it in North Beach, just steps from City Lights Bookstore which is an historic landmark closely associated with the Beat Generation.

19. HIPPIE HANGOUT A regular hangout of beatniks Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsburg, Vesuvio was the seat of the hippie revolution. As the neighbourhood has evolved, the bar has become a tribute to jazz, art and poetry. At 255 Columbus Avenue, North Beach.

20. POOL BAR The Wild Side West Bar opened in San Francisco in 1964 named after the Barbara Stanwyck film Walk on the Wild Side. It became a haven for artists and musicians: Janis Joplin and Bob Dylan frequented the bar for its pool tables and the owner opened the doors to numerous struggling artists. While the establishment is considered one of the few lesbian bars remaining in San Francisco, today the current owners consider it to be a “community bar with a lot of lesbians”. At 424 Cortland Avenue, Bernal Heights.

Manuel tunics in the de Young exhibition

Photograhy by Amy Finke

for the ‘Love Pageant Rally’. Today its walking and cycling paths are a popular connection to San Francisco Botanical Garden and Golden Gate Park. Or just lay in the grass with your headphones on and a playlist tuned to the ’60s at the Polo Fields in Golden Gate Park. On 14 January 1967 more than 20,000 people showed up at the ‘Human Be-In’ here to listen to music and speakers urging them to question authority. It was the prelude to the Summer of Love and is said to be the inspiration for the musical Hair.

Fly to San Francisco with Korean Air which operates four times weekly direct services between Brisbane and Seoul and onward connections to San Francisco. For more information about San Francisco see www.sftravel.com

WIN 2 return airfares to San Francisco Enter now at www.competitions.bne.com.au Competition closes April 30, 2016 *Terms & Conditions apply.

BNE March/April 2017 | 17

ESCAPE

orange A TASTE OF

A short break to explore the foodie highlights of Orange is easier with the launch of new flights from Brisbane, writes Sarah Shrapnel

nyone arriving in the New South Wales country town of Orange expecting to see oranges might be sorely disappointed for, in spite of its name and its reputation as a food bowl for the state, oranges are not actually grown in the area. It’s a misconception common enough that there’s a long-running joke among locals that “Orange grows great apples”, and its cool climate does indeed make it a thriving producer of stone fruits such as cherries, peaches, apricots, plums and apples as well as berries, vegetables, nuts and wines. Food and wine has become such a drawcard there are now three annual festivals that celebrate it – from Food Week in April and the Apple Festival in May to the Orange Wine Festival in October – all just a two-hour flight direct from Brisbane with the launch of new services by regional airline Fly Corporate. With flights departing on a Friday morning a short break can be timed to coincide with the Farmer’s Market held on the second Saturday of every month, a perfect introduction to the local produce and a chance to meet the local farmers. Nine new cafés have opened in Orange in the past 12 months alone to bring the total to 56 – that’s a lot of cafes for a town of only 40,000 people! For out-of-towners like us the good news is a lot of the best cafes, restaurants 18 | BNE March/April 2017

and bars are within walking distance in central Orange and rental cars are available to explore further afield. There are also half day or full day tasting trips with Orange Wine Tours for a fun yet informative tour of the region’s wineries. I’ve been travelling to Orange quite a bit over the last few years – full disclosure, my parents own a winery there – and my how it’s changed. Not only has the number of cafés changed but the standard has too and many wouldn’t look out of place in the inner city. One of the most popular stops is The Agrestic Grocer (426 Mitchell Hwy), a café and speciality food shop started by couples Katie and Beau Baddock and Danielle and Lucas Martin. They serve up locally sourced and seasonally influenced breakfast and lunch items which are easily washed down with a cup of Orange Roasting Co Coffee. The Ploughman’s lunch is a signature dish on the menu, a board filled with a selection of Second Mouse Cheese, Trunkey Creek cured meats and antipasto – a great way to try a selection of Orange produce. There’s an adjoining grocery with local delicacies such as olive oil, craft beer from Badlands Brewery and fruit for picnic snacks or self-catering travellers. Second Mouse Cheese is also onsite at Agrestic and it’s highly likely you’ll find owner and cheesemaker Kai Woltmann there willing

Clockwise from bottom left, opposite page: The Black Sheep Inn provides accommodation in a century-old former shearing shed; Orange is a foodie’s delight with its orchards and vineyards, awardwinning restaurants, smart wine bars and cafés galore, all celebrated at festivals throughout the year; food at Charred; beers at Badlands Brewery which is located in The Agrestic Grocer complex; the Ploughman’s plate is a hearty lunch special at The Agrestic Grocer; and Beau Baddock, orchardist and co-owner of the The Agrestic Grocer. Find out more at www.visitorange.com.au and on Sarah’s blog at www.loveswah.com Images: Destination NSW

Nine new cafés have opened in the past 12 months alone, to bring the total to 56 – that’s a lot of cafés for a town of only 40,000 people to discuss his passion that started back in his homeland of Germany. He moved to Sydney to work in project management but, after juggling his day job with his cheese hobby, he soon moved to Orange to launch his own brand. He now produces a range of camembert, blue, haloumi, quark and feta cheese which are available at several stores in Orange. Woltmann’s enthusiasm is infectious and it’s impossible for me to leave without buying the ingredients for our own gourmet happy hour, crackers, olive oil, craft beer and all. Soon enough it’s wine o’clock and a good time to arrive at Colmar Estate (790 Pinnacle Rd), just outside town in the highlands of Orange. This award-winning vineyard is set on six hectares of land and its high altitude makes it the perfect spot to grow white varieties and Pinot Noir. Owners by Bill and Jane Shrapnel, (yes, my mum and dad) were inspired by a trip to France some 30 years ago to try to grow similar grape varieties as in Alsace and found the equivalent

climate and growing conditions in Orange. When a vineyard came on the market three years ago they packed up their lives and careers in Sydney for a “tree change” and were soon picking up a medley of wine awards from various shows. The cellar door looks out over the picturesque vines and is the perfect place for tasting a selection of their cool climate wines. Since they arrived they have discovered that country folk live up to their reputation – the locals have been welcoming and helpful and they have embraced the country contra system – for example, regularly trading wine for fresh cherries down the road or local beef from a nearby farm. But there are plenty of other wineries to visit and our next stop is Rowlee Wines (613 Cargo Road), a much larger vineyard spread over more than eight hectares, complete with an impressive 1880’s homestead. Owner Nik Samodol focused his keen interest in winemaking and viticulture on producing premium quality wine and some unusual varieties. For example, in addition to

growing standard cool climate grapes such as Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Rowlee produces a unique style called Arneis, a white wine grape variety which originates from Piedmont, Italy and Nebbiolo, an Italian red grape variety. By the time the sun sets we are ready for dinner and the newly opened Charred Kitchen and Bar (1-5 New Street) is our restaurant of choice. The food is designed to share and cooked using a wood and charcoal oven (called Lucifer) to impart a unique smoky flavour. Although they put a tasty spin on vegie-friendly dishes as well. From a charred manchego custard to a roasted beetroot and onion crumble, these dishes made an interesting vegetarian combo or played along perfectly with beef cooked over coals and fire roasted chicken. Orange is a charming combination of old and new and there is a range of B&Bs, country cottages or the chic De Russie boutique hotel (72 Hill Street) for accommodation.

Fly direct between Brisbane and Orange, NSW, with Fly Corporate which has launched new flights departing Monday to Friday. For more see www.flycorporate.com.au BNE March/April 2017 | 19

ESCAPE

fantasy island FOUND

Long Island is a hidden gem in the heart of the Whitsundays, one of only three inhabited islands open to guests. Shelley Thomas discovers her fantasy island

aroline Murray is accustomed to dealing with upset guests – teary-eyed travellers, far from home, on Long Island. Not Long Island, New York, amid opulent mansions, vineyards and a population of close to eight million but Long Island in Queensland’s Whitsundays, where the population never tips 60 and Balinese-style bures line a pristine, palm-fringed cove. Here, rush-hour means more than one kayak on the beach. “We often have guests crying when they leave because they just don’t want to go!” says Caroline with a smile, her Scottish wit as sharp as the full range of Pantone blues reflected in the surrounding Coral Sea. Palm Bay Resort – once an exclusive all-service retreat in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef – has become something of a welcome paradox, offering five-star facilities without the premium price. Sure, there are drool-worthy villas and bures (all with sweeping ocean views, verandas and hammocks to collapse in), a day spa, tennis court, pool and media room. However, in place of a restaurant or room service, self-catering is the order of the day. Food is pre-ordered on the mainland before departure or some provisions are available on the island. It’s

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a concept embraced by guests who have free rein to access the wellequipped kitchen day and night. “Guests love it because it’s more sociable,” says Caroline. “People talk to each other in the kitchen and they watch what others are cooking, share ideas and favourite recipes … and many become life-long friends.” That’s not all that’s different on this island. Palm Bay Resort’s seven staff are helped by a vibrant and diverse group of volunteers – primarily international travellers – sourced via website HelpX.net, an online listing of hotels, farm stays, ranches, B&Bs and even sailing boats that welcome volunteer helpers to stay in exchange for food and accommodation. All but two of Caroline’s permanent staff started as volunteers and loved the experience so much they begged to stay and now work full-time. “These travellers can be backpackers or those taking a year out at any stage in their lives,” says Caroline, herself originally a traveller from Glasgow, who fell in love with the Whitsundays and stayed. They work for about four hours a day and we provide free accommodation and use of the resort facilities the same as the guests. “We have a minimum two weeks’ stay for a maximum group of eight

You can watch the sun rise on the eastern side of the island and watch it set on the western side while you’re sipping a cocktail volunteers at a time, so I’m generally training a new group every two weeks. They come from all over the world: France, Germany, Spain, Finland, Sweden, Britain and across Australia and New Zealand. For Alain Codino, 30, a taxi driver from Marseille, France, Lisa Marie Jousellin, 32, a mechanic from Bretagne, also in France, and Mariella Tusino, 33, a ‘Jill of all trades’ from San Severo in Italy, the experience has proved life-changing. They have discovered the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and a new-found passion to pursue careers in tourism and hospitality. “I am learning a lot about myself and I have found a certain serenity on the island. The calm and authenticity; bungalows right at the ocean; no shops; no cars… just the sound of the birds and the ocean,” says Lisa Marie. Around 40 per cent of Palm Bay Resort guests also flock from overseas, with many from Asia, Europe, South America and most recently America and Canada. Long Island’s ‘local celebrities’ are the resident wildlife, from bush stone-curlews to tawny frogmouths, rock wallabies and goannas and marine life is similarly abundant around the island. The resort is located on the neck of Long Island (which is about 9km long and 2km across its widest point) sitting at the narrowest point, just 400 metres wide. “It’s brilliant because you can walk from one side to the other and see dolphins, turtles, rays, dugongs and, in winter months, whales breaching out the front and back of the resort,” Caroline says. “You can also watch the sun rise on the eastern side of the island and set on the western side while you’re sitting having a cocktail. Just in front of the resort there’s 300 metres of beautiful coral which is unspoiled. The colours are amazing and there is lots of marine life there. “You can swim out from the beach or take one of the resort’s kayaks and tie it to a buoy, jump off and snorkel or take a paddle boat which people often use for fishing.” Fantasy Island found!

Fly direct between Brisbane and Whitsunday Coast with Jetstar, Tigerair and Virgin Australia.

STAY AND PLAY There’s plenty to do on Long Island (catering to all traveller types), from spa treatments to snorkelling and use of the resort’s paddle boats and kayaks; fishing, hikes along 13km of graded walking trails within the island’s National Park; tennis; or simply catching up on some sleep. Caroline and her staff can also book add-on tours and adventures such as a day cruise aboard a rare Australian heritage yacht (‘Lady Enid’) or a seaplane/helicopter flight over iconic Heart Reef. See www.palmbayresort.com.au Whitsunday Paradise Explorer has teamed up with the resort to provide intimate day trips for a maximum of eight passengers. Locals John and Jacqui Henderson launched the business last year, using a rigid inflatable boat to easily access ‘hidden gem’ locations, including just the place to witness a sunset in view of 27 of the Whitsundays’ 74 islands, or, in winter months, be surrounded by whales. See www.whitsundayparadiseexplorer.com

Images: Tourism and Events Queensland

BNE March/April 2017 | 21

ESCAPE EXTRA

Sail a food and wine trail

Sunsail has added a more social element to bareboat sailing and combined it with a fun way to experience the food and wine of Europe with its flotilla tours in the Mediterranean. This year the Food and Wine Flotilla Tours explore Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast on seven-day journeys in June and September that include vineyard excursions, day trips to local villages and dinners with fellow flotilla sailors. Sailing in a flotilla means there’s a lead crew to guide the course and arrange local visits on a set itinerary as well as the company of like-minded sailors to share the experience but there’s still plenty of opportunity for free sailing between destinations and an end-of-week regatta. Prices start from $4510 per boat. Call 1800 803 988 or see www.sunsail.com.au

CYCLE JAPAN’S

NORTHERN FRONTIER

Hokkaido is considered Japan’s wild frontier as the northern island is renowned for its wildlife, volcanoes, pristine lakes, vast forests and ubiquitous hot springs (onsens). SpiceRoads Cycle Tours has introduced a new 14-day road bike tour with just one departure in 2017 on 25 June, designed for adventurers with moderate to high physical fitness who don’t mind navigating the odd mountain pass on the almost 800km journey from Sapporo to Abashiri. The route takes in just over 7000 metres of total ascent as well as long distances on flatter terrain. Highlights include the Mikuni Toge pass, Lake Saroma, Wakka Wildflower Park, Shiretoko National Park, hot springs after each day’s ride and dining on fresh seafood. See www.spiceroads.com Fly direct between Brisbane and Tokyo (Narita) daily with Qantas for onward connections to Hokkaido

Explore the

WILD WEST

When El Questro station in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, 3215km north of Perth, opens in April, as it does every year after the wet season, it will be celebrating 25 years as one of Australia’s most spectacular outback visitor destinations. However, back in 1991 it was a run-down cattle station when it was discovered by adventurous 20-somethings Will and Celia Burrell who came upon it while camping and saw it as a potential tourism attraction.

“When Celia and I discovered El Questro, it took us four hours to drive from Kununurra to the station township but the drive was well worth it. We were simply gobsmacked by its beauty. Celia and I had this vision to provide a destination for anyone who has a sense of adventure while offering them the option of comfort”, Will Burrell recalls. El Questro Wilderness Park has since become a luxurious oasis perched on a clifftop overlooking the Chamberlain River and Gorge, 100km from the nearest town in one of the country’s wildest and most beautiful regions. Now owned by Delaware North Australia Parks & Resorts, El Questro Station has expanded. Three new world-class Cliffside Retreats have been added and nearby Emma Gorge Resort has safari-style tented cabin accommodation and is open to day visitors. El Questro has some special packages available for bookings made until 21 October 2017 (The Homestead and The Station close again for the wet season 22 October 2017 while Emma Gorge closes on 30 September). For more information call 1800 837 168 or see www.elquestro.com.au/stay/packages Fly direct between Brisbane and Perth, Western Australia with Qantas and Virgin Australia

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CITIZENM HOTEL, TOWER OF LONDON If you thought city hotels all look so bland you could be in any city in the world, think again. The new citizenM hotel opposite the Tower of London dispels that myth with its bold design. Features include self-check-in terminals, complimentary use of iMacs and printers, iPads in the rooms that control everything from themed wake-up alarms to coloured ambient lighting. See www.citizenm.com/destinations/ london/tower-of-london-hotel

LONDON CALLING Before booking a hotel in London this year check out these new openings

THE COURTHOUSE HOTEL, SHOREDITCH Inner city Shoreditch long ago shook off its working class rags to become a gentrified hub for creative types and while there’s still plenty of graffiti and quirky cafés and bars, accommodation is going seriously upmarket. The Baroque-style Old Street Magistrates’ Court and police station has had a $65 million makeover to become the five-star Courthouse Hotel, with spa, indoor swimming pool, subterranean bowling alley and cinema. See www.shoreditch.courthouse-hotel.com

THE NED, LONDON The former Midland Bank headquarters is being transformed into a five-star hotel, inspired by the glamour of a 1930s transatlantic ocean liner as inspiration with rooftop bar and landscaped terraces, health spa and a range of restaurants and cafés, including a New-York-style deli. Scheduled to open in the English spring at 27 Poultry, London. See www.thened.com

LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL COUNTY HALL It’s not new but the London Marriott County Hall, overlooking Big Ben, Westminster Bridge and the River Thames is bucking the trend and increasing room sizes, opening seven Balcony Suites for travellers who want more than just a bed for the night. The Westminster Suite, for example, is the size of an apartment at 135 square metres, claimed to be the largest onebedroom suite in London. See www.londonmarriottcountyhall.co.uk

NOBU HOTEL, SHOREDITCH Master sushi chef Nobu Matsuhisa has attracted fans worldwide for his fabulous food and now his first European hotel will open in the English spring in hipster Shoreditch complete, of course, with statement restaurant: a dramatic five-metre high space in the basement serving up imaginative creations that guests have come to expect from Nobu. See www.nobuhotels.com/london-nobu-hotel

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ESCAPE EXTRA

Follow the legend of

KING ARTHUR

The legend of King Arthur has captivated filmmakers and storytellers for centuries and in May director Guy Ritchie’s interpretation, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, will finally reach cinema screens. But there are many historians who believe Arthur’s reign is not just medieval mythology. Ancient writings have connected places across Britain to the legendary king – from his supposed birthplace at Tintagel in Cornwall to King Arthur’s Round Table in Cumbria – inspiration to map out your own travel crusade. Start at the ruins of 12th-century Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, continue to Glastonbury – more famous now for its music festival but it is steeped in Arthurian history. Monks claimed to find remains of Arthur and his Queen in Glastonbury Abbey and Excalibur, that legendary sword, is said to have been forged here. At least two lakes in Wales, Llyn Llydaw and Llyn Ogwen in Snowdonia, are claimed to be the final resting place of Excalibur, Carlisle in north west England is said to be the site of Arthur’s Camelot and the round table is rumoured to have its origins in Eamont Bridge in Cumbria. To find out more search King Arthur at www.visitbritain.org Fly between Brisbane and London with Qantas or 10 other international airlines

G o l d C o a s t b y d ay

NEW BREEZE ON

Sunshine Coast

Breeze is the first new luxury accommodation to open in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast in over a decade. The 10-level apartment ‘resort’ has been designed to reflect the waves and wide flowing estuaries of its location overlooking Mooloolaba’s north facing beach which is considered to have some of the safest and best swimming conditions on the Sunshine Coast. The complex of one, two and three bedroom apartments is close to cafés and shops and guests have access to Breeze’s own bikes to explore Mooloolaba and the coastal foreshore. Prices from $260 per night, off-peak season, minimum two-night stay. Call (07) 5444 5355 or see www.breezemooloolaba.com.au

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BMH_132h x 182w_SPMR 24 | BNE March/April 2017and BMH 2016_FINAL.indd

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BEST VALUE

BELLARINE

The Bellarine Peninsula south west of Melbourne juts eastward from Geelong into Port Phillip Bay, and has long been a sleepy hollow favoured by city folk looking for a laid-back escape. But its charm is likely to attract a much wider audience now that Lonely Planet has named it one of its Top 10 Best Value places to visit in 2017. Beyond the beaches, lighthouses and historic treasures in towns like Portarlington, Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale, Jack Rabbit Vineyard and Flying Brick Cider Co are just two refreshment stops that should be on a self-guided tour of the area. The Bellarine Peninsula is just a ferry ride from the more well-travelled Mornington Peninsula and worthy of a stopover for a couple of nights before continuing on to the Great Ocean Road. See www.thebellarinetastetrail.com.au

Fly direct between Brisbane and Melbourne with Jetstar, Tigerair, Qantas and Virgin Australia

Surfside luxury in Bali It was the first resort in the world to offer a permanent night surfing installation, now Hotel Komune Bali on the shore of the Keramas surf break, and just 50 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport Denpasar, has opened 22 luxurious ocean view pool suites with panoramic views across Lombok strait to Nusa Lembongan. Each has its own sun deck and private pool and accommodation ranges in size from two to six bedrooms. It may be Bali but suites are equipped with all mod cons including surround sound stereo and docking station, high speed WiFi, satellite TV and DVD player. The adults-only Health Hub is also home to a 25-metre lap pool, a gym including surfing simulator, fitness classes, yoga school and spa suites while the cafĂŠ serves up organic and macro dishes for the healthaware. Prices from US$199 per night. See www.komuneresorts.com Fly direct between Brisbane and Denpasar, Bali with Jetstar and Virgin Australia

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TASTE

TASTE of Queensland on TV When roving chefs and best mates Andy Allen and Ben Milbourne, both graduates of Masterchef Australia, were invited to go fishing in the mangroves just outside Port Douglas with Linc and Brandon Walker they didn’t realise just how fierce it was going to be. As they paddled in ankle deep water in search of mud crabs, the pair was warned by their guides that if they came upon a crab it would likely rear at them in its own defence and they would have maybe three to four seconds before it would run at them! Okay for the chefs who had a spear each, not so good for the cameraman following their every move. As warned, a crab appeared and charged for the cameraman! That wasn’t the end of the episode for the cameraman who steadfastly kept filming even while a stingray was later nibbling at his foot. Such candid

moments are captured in the new series of Andy and Ben Eat Australia, a 15-part series commissioned by SBS and now airing on the free-to-air Food Network. The series traces the travels of Andy and Ben up the east coast of Australia, and the last three episodes (airing in March) follow their discoveries in Queensland – from harvesting honey on the rooftop of a city office block with Brisbane’s star beekeeper Jack Stone of Bee One Third to cooking a whole fresh fish on Fraser Island and foraging for native Australian ingredients in the Tropical North. Andy admits that the experience in Queensland was new to him and just the beginning of what he had to learn about local ingredients from innovative producers and stunning new recipes from top chefs such as Alejandro Cancino at Brisbane’s Urbane and Nick Holloway at Nu Nu in Palm Cove. The show is not rehearsed and Andy says that even if the cameras hadn’t been rolling they would have done it just the same way. He even threw out his homework early on the trip and instead of using preprepared recipes he learnt to improvise along the way with the many new ingredients he was discovering each day, cooked mostly on the charcoal barbecue they carried with them. It’s a spontaneous blend of travel and cooking and the people they meet along the way are also stars.

Andy and Ben Eat Australia is on Wednesday nights from 9.30pm on the Food Network and available on SBS On Demand.

WORLD’S GREATEST DISHES If you had to pick the 50 greatest dishes of the world what would make it on your list – eaten in the country of their origin, of course? Spanish paella, perhaps, or French coq au vin, or Thai green curry? It’s fun to find out if your choices match any in food writer James Steen’s own compendium titled 50 of the Greatest Dishes of the World which aims to chronicle dishes renowned around the world and the stories behind the food. It’s a delicious journey from Britain’s fish and chips to the elegant Black Forest gateau with many stops, and cooking tips from acclaimed chefs, in between. Published in March by Icon, RRP $22.99.

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Paddock to city plate FIG THE SPIRIT OF INVENTION Esprit de Figues is a new liqueur infused with the flavour of fresh figs, hand-picked and steeped for three months before being bottled at a 150-year-old distillery in Burgundy, France. However, while the liqueur is made in France the concept is the brainchild of Patrick Borg and his team at Australian liquor distribution company Think Spirits, which has been many years in the making. The idea was initially inspired by Borg’s Mediterranean family heritage. His mother migrated from Malta to Australia in the 1960s and brought a small clipping of her favourite fruit, the fig, with her. Still today the tree she planted produces figs – but only for two months each year. That short season led Borg on his quest to create the taste of fresh figs in a liqueur that could be enjoyed all year round. Seven years of research and development later the fresh fig liqueur is finally being poured at some of the world’s finest bars, including Claridges, The Savoy and The Ritz in London and now in Brisbane at bars including Riverbar and Kitchen and Black Bird Bar and Grill, or over the counter at Malt Traders Newstead. The liqueur is a rich dark purple colour in the bottle and softens to a pale mauve when poured. The taste of fresh fig is balanced with hints of berry jam, peach and honey and, as distinctive as it is, it is designed to mix so makes a dramatic splash with Champagne or Prosecco and makes a creative base for cocktails such as a Fig Honey Sour or just with soda (pictured above). For cocktail recipes see www.espritdefigues.fr

Stanthorpe may be best known as a chilly fruit and wine growing region south west of Brisbane but e’cco bistro head chef Simon Palmer has stumbled upon a deer farm in the area producing venison of such good quality that he has made it a hero dish on his latest menu. It represents a new direction for Palmer who says some of his inspiration is drawn from Korean and Japanese influences along with the ingredients and innovative producers themselves. The Venison Tartare (pictured below) sits on top of a beetroot crisp, made from fermented rice and cooked in beetroot juice before being dehydrated, aerated and puffed. The tartare is coated in egg yolk gel (the eggs are sourced from free range chickens on the Scenic Rim) with harissa and a drizzle of lime, while the venison itself is harvested and hung for three days before being delivered direct to e’cco’s kitchen. The new menu is served at e’cco bistro, 100 Boundary Street, city. For reservations call 3831 8344.

Menu breaks with CONVENTION

hen you eat out at special events are you one of those people who ticks ‘yes’ in the box for any dietary requests? You’re not alone. Healthy alternatives to traditional convention food in particular are increasingly in demand and Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) says that those dietary requests now make up to 30 per cent of all meals – from a whopping total of a million and a half meals a year – prepared at the Centre. As a result BCEC has established a purposebuilt, dedicated Dietary Kitchen headed up by one of Brisbane’s legendary and often-awarded chefs – David Pugh – a pioneering champion of fresh local produce at his restaurants (Restaurant Two, Two Small Rooms) long before it became something to boast about. Pugh will be working with consultant nutritionist Kerry Leech, dietary adviser to the Queensland Firebirds, the champion netball team that plays all its home games at BCEC, to create the Nourish Mentality Menu which focuses entirely on healthy eating, including choices that are 75 per cent gluten-free. BNE March/April 2017 | 27

TASTE

Produce from hinterland farms stars on the menus of cafés at Brisbane Aiport terminals, as Kerry Heaney discovers

S AIRPORT SHOWCASES

TASTES OF

QUEENSLAND

From top: Woombye Cheese served at Brisbane River Grill; Tamborine Mountain Free Range Eggs for breakfast, also at Brisbane River Grill; Ryan Kingsnorth’s chickens roam free on his farm; and Michael Bishop with turmeric served in lattes at Corretto Café and Bar, International Terminal

pread a thick layer of soft, creamy Woombye goat’s cheese onto a slice of char-grilled artisan sourdough, top it with rocket pesto and bite into a real taste of Queensland. At Brisbane Airport’s Domestic and International Terminals visitors don’t even have to leave the building to find food that’s locally grown, harvested and made, providing a genuine opportunity to taste the place. Woombye Cheese has featured on the menu of Brisbane River Grill at International Terminal since it opened. The family-owned cheesemaker started just three years ago in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast and its hand-made products have quickly found favour not only at the airport but also at Brisbane’s best restaurants and delis. Milk is delivered fresh every morning from local farms and a different cheese is made every day, all completely by hand with no mechanical process at all. According to owner Karen Paynter it’s that artisan quality that allows them to see, sniff and taste the cheese to make sure it is maturing the way they want before it goes to market, a dedication that is already being recognised with awards. Ryan Kingsnorth of Tamborine Mountain Free Range Eggs is enjoying a similar success with the produce from his small farm in high demand by Brisbane River Grill, as well as Glasshouse Bar and Aviation Pier Café and Bar at Domestic Terminal, and more cafés across Brisbane. Kingsnorth’s chickens are never locked up, even at night. Protected by electric netting and a guard dog, his happy flock lives in a moveable caravan surrounded by open, bug-filled pasture. It’s chicken heaven and that’s why the eggs are creamy and full flavoured. “It is a real buzz for us to get photos of the menu from friends and snaps of their meals. It’s great to see the finished product,” Kingsnorth says. At Corretto Café & Bar at International Terminal Atlantic Salmon is glazed with a Buderim Ginger Lemon and Lime Marmalade resting on a bed of stir-fried Asian greens. The ginger is grown on the Sunshine Coast where rich volcanic soil, high rainfall and high humidity make ideal growing conditions. The Ginger Lemon and Lime Marmalade is a variation on Buderim Ginger’s Original Ginger Marmalade, an Aussie staple which has graced pantry shelves for more than 55 years. Corretto Café & Bar also packs a mighty yellow punch with turmeric lattes made using Golden Turmeric Elixir from Brisbane-based Alchemy Cordial, a family-owned business which was among the first to manufacture chai and coffee syrups in Australia 20 years ago. Alchemy’s founder Michael Bishop says the idea for the elixir came from his permaculture farm in northern New South Wales where he grows turmeric. “For some time, we have been harvesting the turmeric, grating it and steeping it in hot water along with ginger for ourselves,” says Bishop. “We added black pepper, which is important as your body cannot absorb curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, without black pepper.” Bishop developed the idea into a syrup that cafés could use and their naturally flavoured Golden Elixir was born. Popular in both hot and cold milk, it includes turmeric, ginger, black pepper, organic vanilla, cinnamon, and a little raw sugar. “Customers love the flavour and we have been surprised by how many people, both young and old are fully aware of the health benefits of turmeric,” says Bishop. Find more information about dining options at Brisbane Airport online at www.bne.com.au. Follow foodie blogger Kerry Heaney at www.eatdrinkandbekerry.com.au

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Photography by Eric Wang

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Country music

ROCKS

It’s been more than 10 years since the Dixie Chicks (pictured right) performed in Australia and they’re coming back for the 10th anniversary of CMC Rocks, Australia’s largest country and roots music festival, at Ipswich. Grammy winners Little Big Town and 10 more US country music stars will join local artists the McClymonts, Lee Kernaghan, Adam Harvey and more for the three-day Festival at Willowbank, Ipswich from 24-26 March. Tickets from $189 plus fees for single day, $299 for three-day pass. Camping costs start from $190. See www.cmcrocks.com

A LIFE IN 30 CHARACTERS

Circus challenges model view It will be a sweet homecoming when Rob Tannion, the new artistic director at Circus Oz, brings his first production with the company to Brisbane. It’s been more than 20 years since he left the Sunshine State as a graduate to explore opportunities overseas and never looked back. After living and breathing other cultures from Europe to South America and working in dance, choreography, physical theatre and musicals, including a $30 million production of Lord of The Rings in Canada and the first original musical created in Chinese language in China, Tannion learned just how highly regarded Australian circus performers are overseas. “They are massively valued because they are great generalists,” he says. “In Europe there tends to be a lot of specialists but an Australian will turn up to an audition for trapeze and then say they can do tumbling or they can juggle or they can do partner adagio. The skill base is massive.” So Tannion was delighted when the artistic director’s role at Circus Oz became available. The new show Model Citizens (above) has, in some part, been influenced by Tannion’s travels and living as an immigrant for the past 23 years – and partly by the model kits kids used to get and break apart the pieces to make up things. Using giant models of everyday objects such as pegs, safety pins, scissors, cotton reels and needles the ensemble of performers climbs, jumps, tumbles and flies its way through a discourse on how far we will go to fit into society, or not. Be prepared for plenty of surprises, and try to forget whatever your mother told you about not running with scissors or playing with matches during this high energy and, at times, breathtaking show. Model Citizens, at Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane 12-15 April. Tickets from $64 plus fees. See www.qac.com.au 30 | BNE March/April 2017

In I Am My Own Wife Ben Gerrard (pictured below) plays 30 characters in a one man tour de force which pieces together the real life of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, an elegant and eccentric 65-year-old transvestite who survived the oppression of Nazi and Communist rule in Germany. The play is a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner. At Brisbane Powerhouse as part of MELT festival from 4 to 8 April. Tickets from $45 plus fees. See the festival program and book at www.brisbanepowerhouse.org

RAW talent

Queensland Ballet’s Raw is a program of three individual dance pieces – Christopher Bruce’s Ghost Dances, first performed in the 1980s and still evocative today as ‘ghosts’ interrupt the daily lives of a series of ordinary people, Liam Scarlett’s No Man’s Land reflects on the heartache of war while Greg Horsman’s Glass Concerto showcases the speed and precision of the ballet company against the music of Philip Glass. At Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane 19-25 March. Tickets $100 plus fees. See www.queenslandballet.com.au

YOUTUBE

queen strikes a chord

Lindsey Stirling is a brave and fearless musician, laying bare her experience with anorexia in her album Shatter Me and then breaking free in her third album Brave Enough which was written and recorded following the death of her best friend. Stirling has certainly captured the world’s attention – she has eight million subscribers and more than 1.3 billion views on YouTube – which made her Forbes magazine’s highest ranking female artist on the channel last year – and her headline tours play to hundreds of thousands of fans, proving that she has rewritten the rule book on opportunities for a classically trained violinist turned electronica superstar. Stirling says she’s learned to open up her heart in a way she’s never opened it before through the music on her latest album and she will share that too with the audience when she performs at The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley, on 14 April. Tickets from $62.15 plus fees at www.thetivoli.com.au

Lots of LAUGHS A who’s who of Australian comedy will be appearing at the Brisbane Comedy Festival until 28 March – Dave Hughes, making his debut at the event, Wil Anderson, Tom Gleeson, Joel Creasey, Frank Woodley, Rove McManus, Merrick Watts, Matt Okine, Tom Bollard, Paul Foot, Cal Wilson, Fiona O’Loughlin, Hannah Gadsby, Sam Simmons, Nick Cody, Damien Power and so many more – but connoisseurs might want to get out of their comic comfort zones and try something new. Teen talent will be doing their darndest to make the audience laugh at the final of Class Clowns (26 March) – just like Joel Creasey, Josh Thomas and Tom Bollard once did when they were starting out; local up-and-comers will be dishing out some Sunshine State humour at Queensland Born and Bread (16-19 March); the laughs will be going late into the night at After Hours (Friday and Saturday nights to 25 March) and it will be no-holds-barred at Queensland Theatresports, the free (of charge) and free-for-all that is improv comedy (on Friday and Saturday nights until 25 March). For the full program see www.brisbanepowerhouse.org BNE March/April 2017 | 31

WHAT’S ON

Monster of a festival

Magic of

POTTER’S MUSIC

Bleach Festival on the Gold Coast has earned a reputation for cutting edge performances, particularly by innovative dance group The Farm which returns to the festival this year with another world premiere. Frank Enstein is just one of three world premieres at Bleach this year and is a collaboration between The Farm and Perth-based Co3 Australia. The production features monsters, magic, acrobatic dance, an original score and a wicked sense of humour suitable for children and adults. At the Gold Coast Arts Centre, Bundall on 31 March and 1 April. Tickets from $35 plus fees at www.theartscentregc.com.au The Bleach Festival program is a mix of music, circus, theatre, dance, cabaret and visual art at 14 locations on the Gold Coast from 31 March to 16 April. See what’s on at www.bleachfestival.com.au

Celebrating 20 years since J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was first published Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) will present the Australian premiere of a special concert, playing the score from the film in sync to the picture as it appears in HD on a giant screen. There are people who can quote passages from the books and lines from the films but true aficionados of Potter will recognise Hedwig’s theme, which went on to play in every subsequent film in the series, or Voldemort’s theme, the sound of Fluffy’s Harp or the Banquet fanfare. As with the books and the films, this is just the beginning of a global concert series that will replay the scores of sheer wizadry by some brilliant contemporary composers. QSO presents Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone on 1 April, at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane. Tickets from $49 plus fees. See www.qso.com.au As Brisbane Airport’s new artist-in-residence QSO will serenade travellers with occasional ensemble performances at the Domestic and International Terminals this year.

The science of

LOVE

Playwright Nick Payne will attend World Science Festival for a panel discussion on Science and Story: The Semantics of Science at The Edge, State Library Queensland, on 25 March. See www.worldsciencefestival.com.au

32 | BNE March/April 2017

Anyone who has ever watched Big Bang Theory on television will know how physics can complicate a relationship – we’re looking at you Sheldon – but that’s nothing compared to Constellations, the romance written by young English playwright Nick Payne that has been called the most sophisticated date play Broadway has ever seen. It’s not long – 70 minutes – and there are only two characters but the plotline dissects their evolving romance into all the possibilities that could occur if their relationship were happening across parallel universes, good and bad. Queensland Theatre Company production from 9 March to 9 April at Bille Brown Studio, 78 Montague Road, South Brisbane. Tickets from $65 plus fees. See www.queenslandtheatre.com.au

WHEN WHAT

WHERE

MARCH

LADY

IS A STAR

John Frost knows how to put on a good show – he’s been doing it for 30 years and has been behind some of the most successful musicals seen on the Australian stage, including South Pacific and The King and I, co-produced with Opera Australia. To mark the 60th anniversary of the first Broadway production of My Fair Lady, the two have partnered again to recreate the rags to riches classic, directed by its original star – Dame Julie Andrews – who auditioned the Australian cast herself. The Broadway production launched Andrews’ career and set box office records as the longest running stage show at the time and already in Australia it is following a similar trajectory. The Sydney season sold more tickets than any other production in the history of the Sydney Opera House. My Fair Lady opens with a stellar cast at Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane from 14 March. Tickets from $79.90 plus fees. See www.myfairladymusical.com.au

Green Jam sessions, free event every Friday evening on Melbourne Street Green

QPAC, South Brisbane

From 7

Robert Brownhall, exhibition

Philip Bacon Galleries, Fortitude Valley

International Women’s Day breakfast

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

Broncos v Cowboys

Suncorp Stadium

Making Modernism exhibition

Queensland Art Gallery, South Brisbane

Justin Beiber

Suncorp Stadium

16-19

The Home Show

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

Mind, Body and Spirit Festival

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

Baby Animals

Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

From 17

Paul Ryan, Happy Days in the Colony exhibition

Edwina Corlette Gallery, New Farm

Suncorp Super Netball Double Header: Queensland Firebirds v Melbourne Vixens; plus Sunshine Coast Lightning v Collingwood Magpies Netball

Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall

Martha Wainwright

The Triffid, Newstead

Blood, Sweat and Tears

Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

World Science Festival

Queensland Museum, South Brisbane

Pioneers in Science, Professor Ian Frazer

Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane

Broncos v Raiders

Suncorp Stadium

Ed Keupper Restrung

Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

Twenty One Pilots

Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall

From 31

White Snake, performed in Mandarin with English surtitles

Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane

Queensland Brides Expo

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

Queensland Reds v Hurricanes, Super Rugby

Suncorp Stadium

Elvis – An American Trilogy, tribute

Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

Grease – The Arena Experience

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

7-26

Judith Sinnamon, exhibition

Edwina Corlette Gallery, New Farm

8-29

Minefields and Miniskirts

Brisbane Arts Theatre, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane

10-11

Ocean Film Festival

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

Bonnie Raitt

Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane

Paw Patrol Live

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane

Jake Shimabukuro plays the ukulele

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

Broncos v Titans

Suncorp Stadium

Redcliffe Festival of Sails

Suttons Beach, Redcliffe

The Doobie Brothers

Tivoli, Fortitude Valley

19-22

Trainspotting Live

Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm

Suncorp Super Netball Double Header: Queensland Firebirds v West Coast Fever; plus Sunshine Coast Lightning v Adelaide Thunderbirds

Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall

From 22

Once in Royal David’s City, Queensland Theatre Company

Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane

26-27

London’s Academy of St Martin in the Fields

Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane

The Whitlams, 25th anniversary tour

Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane

28-30

The Planting Festival

Woodfordia, Woodford

APRIL

Anna O’Byrne plays Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady

BNE March/April 2017 | 33

MY BRISBANE

MEL BUTTLE CO M ED IAN

Mel Buttle is a writer, radio presenter and TV host based in Brisbane. She studied to be a teacher and was studying marketing before she was lured by the open mic to try stand-up comedy and then she was hooked... Where do you live? Greenslopes, just 5km from the CBD. What do you like most about your neighbourhood? It’s leafy and quiet, full of young families and super cute oldies in their original post-war homes, I love all the waves I get when I walk the dog. Also, we’re only a stones throw from ritzy Coorparoo with all its delicious cafés such as Flute. Honestly, my favourite thing is a Sunday afternoon beer at the Greenslopes Bowls Club. Also here’s a tip: the Greenslopes Private Hospital has a 24-hour pharmacy. Where do you always take visitors when they come to Brisbane? I like to show off my favourite places for food, which at the moment are Pearl Café in Woolloongabba for breakfast, a bit of charcuterie and a Malbec at Gerard’s Bar and dessert at Mister Fitz’s at East Brisbane. I also love to take people to the Archerfield Speedway. It’s loud, there are fireworks sometimes, there’s carnival food, it’s really fun. My other tip is to go watch the Brisbane Bandits play at Holloway Field in Newmarket. 34 | BNE March/April 2017

There are often food trucks at the game and it’s fun, it reminds me of going to Yankee stadium when I was in New York. What’s your hot tip for visitors that only a local would know? Ocean View Estates winery. It’s a bit of drive but the drive is spectacular. Head out past Samford and Dayboro, stop in for some antique hunting and coffee in Dayboro, put a bet on at the time warp that is the Dayboro pub. Continue on to picturesque Ocean View, passing dairy farms and tree changers mowing their acreage blocks. The winery, as per the name, has views to die for. I grew up at Cedar Creek, near Samford, and love this area to bits. What’s your favourite thing to do on the weekend? I take my dog Ruby to the Orleigh Dog Park in West End. It’s a riverside dog park which means the pups are free to frolic in the Brisbane River. It’s right next to the South Brisbane Sailing Club so if the boat ramp is free, the dogs can go for a decent dip to cool off. Afterwards, I grab a strong coffee from Blackstar, a Bahn Mi from Kim Thanh Hot Bread in Vulture Street, West End, still only $6 for the best pork roll in Brissy, and head home to get the smoker on. In case you haven’t picked up on it, I’m into food. I love to barbecue a brisket or lamb shoulder low and slow then have people over for a simple lunch of barbecued meat and ’slaw on rolls in the backyard. Of course there’s a few Balter beers, from a brewery in Currumbin. It’s the weekend after all. Then we head to the German Club for a couple of snags and maybe a boogie on their dance floor.

MELS FOOD PICKS I love to take people to Archerfield Speedway. It’s loud, there are fireworks sometimes, there’s carnival food, it’s really fun

GERARD’S BAR

FORTITUDE VALLEY

You have a dog – where’s a place your dog loves to go? Ruby is an RSPCA girl, she’s a mix. They said she was a Bull Arab but to me she’s just my big brown dog. I love to take Ruby to Nudgee Beach, there’s a big off leash beach there and all the dogs have a great time. Where’s your favourite place for coffee? Reverends in Fortitude Valley does great coffee, they don’t even flinch when I order a cappuccino. I also love their food, it’s probably my favourite spot for brunch at the moment. What about a meal out? I love Gobi Manchurian at Taj Mahal on Brunswick Street, at New Farm. It’s a simple dish of fried cauliflower in a light chilli sauce, but it’s so delicious. I’ve ordered it every single time I’ve been there. I love that it’s just up from Bloodhound Bar, also on Brunswick Street, where I like to try a couple of their new craft beers then head to my old faithful Taj Mahal to top the night.

You started stand-up in Perth where you studied marketing. What made you decide to turn to comedy? I just got hooked on it, I started doing open mic in Perth as I felt I had nothing to lose, being away from home, and before you know it you’re kind of addicted to comedy. I just kept going and here I am. I was also hopeless at working in an office. I can’t sit still and I struggle with organisation. Also I can’t take any clip art signs seriously.

MISTER FITZ’S EAST BRISBANE

What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you? I was so bad at working in an office when I left my job in Perth, they unveiled a permanent plaque they’d installed on the tea room door that read ‘The Mel Buttle Memorial Tea Room’ because I spent so much time in there just daydreaming and not working.

What is your favourite leisure activity? I like watching drift practise at Archerfield on a Thursday night, drifting is a style of driving where you try to get your car sideways around a course. Of course, the best bit is when someone pushes it too far and goes into the pile of tyres! I know, I’m a bogan. I’m sorry.

You co-host The Great Australian Bake-off on Foxtel’s Lifestyle Channel, any tips on where to find great baked treats in Brisbane? I love Jocelyn’s Provisions in James Street, Fortitude Valley. The passionfruit cupcakes are the best (but Jocelyn has moved on and now bakes for her latest store Cake and Bake at West End, also a treat). Pearl Café at Woolloongabba has a great pastry chef and when I just need a couple of slices of cake for a dinner party I pop in there. My other favourite is Miettes Boulangerie and Patisserie. There’s one in Corinda and at Graceville, where I get my bread. They do a fabulous organic, stone-ground, whole-wheat sourdough.

You grew up in Samford. What are you fondest memories of childhood there? It was excellent to have creeks to play in, there was always a wallaby eating the grass on our front lawn, we had two hectares so you could play music loud and burn piles of old wood if you wanted to, it was a bit far away from things for me as a teenager but when I was little I loved it.

What is yor favourite short break out of town? Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast. Rick Shores is a great restaurant right on the beachfront, perfect for few cocktails and I cannot recommend their Fried (Moreton Bay) Bug Roll enough. I often Airbnb a place in Burleigh for a couple of nights when I need a break. It’s still got a bit of that ’80’s Gold Coast vibe to it which I love – it’s not all high-rises and kale smoothies.

JOCELYN’S PROVISIONS FORTITUDE VALLEY

RICK SHORES

BURLEIGH HEADS

Brisbane-based comedian Mel Buttle presents her show I Can’t Believe It’s Not Buttle as part of the Brisbane Comedy Festival, 14-19 March. Tickets from $22-32 per person plus fees at www.brisbanepowerhouse.org BNE March/April 2017 | 35

NEED TO KNOW AIRPORT AMBASSADORS

Welcoming volunteers are available to answer questions and offer directions to visitors within Brisbane Airport’s Domestic and International Terminals. Look for ambassadors wearing bright blue shirts if you need assistance and our team of Chinesespeaking ambassadors wear red shirts.

BNE PARKING

Convenient, secure and undercover short and long-term parking is available within walking distance to both terminals. For special offers and full product offering including valet, car washing, the new AIRPARK and more see www.bne.com.au

TERMINAL TRANSFERS

Passengers transferring between the terminals can travel via the free Transfer Bus which departs at regular intervals from Level 2 International Terminal and Level 1 Domestic Terminal and travels via Skygate.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Visitor Information Centres For information about accommodation, tours, transfer tickets and general enquiries, Visitor Information Centres are on Level 2 International Terminal and Level 1 Domestic Terminal (Central Area).

TRANSPORT BOOKINGS

Currency exchange Travelex currency exchange and transfer facilities are on Levels 2, 3 and 4 International Terminal and Level 2 Domestic Terminal near Gate 23.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Baggage lockers Find small, medium and large lockers for short and long-term hire at the terminal entrance to the public car park at the International Terminal, at either end of the Domestic Terminal, or next to the bus stop at Skygate.

TAXIS AND AIRTRAIN

Tax Refund Scheme (TRS) The TRS enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) that you pay on goods bought in Australia. See www. customs.gov.au or call 1300 363 263.

Coach, rail, limousine and corporate car bookings can be made at the Visitor Information Centre, Level 2 International Terminal or Level 1 Domestic Terminal.

TransLink is the local bus, ferry and train public transport network stretching north to Gympie, south to Coolangatta and west to Helidon. See www.translink.com.au or call 13 12 30.

Taxi ranks are located kerbside Level 2 International Terminal and Level 1 Domestic Terminal. Airtrain provides regular rail links between Brisbane Airport, Brisbane city, Gold Coast and TransLink network as well as terminal transfers. Tickets available in the terminal or at the station.

BNE Maps + More Download the Brisbane Airport app to access important flight information, terminal maps and parking, shopping and dining options at the airport. Add your itinerary and more. Available free for iPhone and Android at Google play and App Store. 36 | BNE 38 BNE March/April July/August 2017 2016

Lost property International: enquiries to Visitor Information Centre, Level 2; call (07) 3406 3190 or email international@sqt. com.au. Domestic: enquiries first to your airline. Qantas call (07) 3867 3264, Virgin Australia (07) 3114 8150, Jetstar (07) 3336 1752 or email Tigerair at ttbne.ops@ aerocare.com.au before contacting the Visitor Information Centre on Level 1; call (07) 3068 6698 or send emails to domestic@sqt.com.au Disability access Lifts, travelators, ramps, aerobridges, rest points, accessible parking spaces and toilet

BRISBANE AIRPORT provides the fastest uncapped WiFi in Australia at both Domestic and International Terminals. Travellers also can recharge their devices and download favourite programs before boarding flights using the free WeWatt charge bikes on Level 4 Departures, International Terminal, the first of the innovative pedal power kiosks to be installed in Australia facilities are in place for passengers with limited mobility or disabilities. Airlines are responsible for assisting passengers with disabilities within terminals. Passengers should refer to their airline’s policies prior to booking their ticket. There is no porter service or any form of direct assistance provided at Brisbane Airport other than any assistance that may be provided by the passenger’s airline. WiFi access Brisbane Airport has the fastest uncapped free WiFi in Australia available at International Terminal and central area Domestic Terminal. Local amenities Skygate is Brisbane Airport’s retail and dining precinct, a short free ride on the Transfer Bus from the terminals. There are more than 130 stores, including brandname factory outlets, a 24/7 supermarket, hairdresser, gym, restaurants, chemist, medical clinic, hotel, beauty services, barber, tavern and golf leisure centre. Prayer Room A multi-denominational prayer room is located at International Terminal Level 4. Police For assistance at Brisbane Airport telephone 13 12 37. Acknowledgement In keeping with the spirit of reconciliation, we respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which Brisbane Airport stands, and pay respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

GOOD READS TO THE SEA

ISTANBUL A TALE OF THREE CITIES

Four storytellers share their version of what has led to the disappearance of a 17-year-old from a seemingly idyllic beach town on the Tasmanian coast, weaving tales that span centuries and continents. Dibley has lived in Tasmania for 30 years but only left her day job to write full-time four years ago and this has been described as a ‘stunning’ debut novel recommended for fans of Kate Morton and Alice

Based on meticulous research and new archaeological evidence Hughes provides an epic biography of one of the world’s most exotic cities. Standing as the gateway between the East and West, it has served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman Empires. For much of its history it was known simply as ‘the City’ but, as Hughes reveals in her detailed narrative, Istanbul is not just a city but a story. Published by W&N.

Bettany Hughes

Christine Dibley

Hoffman. Published by Macmillan.

HAVANA

THE GIRL BEFORE JP Delaney

This Hichcockian thriller has been compared to The Girl On The Train and Gone Girl which have both become successful movies and JP Delaney’s psychological twister has been called pitch perfect. The Girl Before refers to the previous tenant of the house where Jane now lives and who, she discovers, met a mysterious death. Will Jane face the same fate? Ron Howard has already been signed to direct the movie version. Published by Quercus.

BIG LITTLE LIES

When it comes to packing essentials for a trip a book is still the reader of choice according to a TripAdvisor survey which showed almost twice as many travellers would pack a book (33 per cent) than an e-reader (18 per cent)

Mark Kurlansky

The New York Times best-selling author presents an insider’s view of Havana: the city he has come to know over more than 30 years. Part cultural history, part travelogue, with recipes, historic engravings, photographs and Kurlansky’s own pen-and-ink drawings throughout, Havana celebrates the city’s singular music, literature, architecture, food and its extraordinary blend of cultures. Published by Bloomsbury.

Liane Moriarty

Moriarty’s novel topped the New York Times bestseller list the first week it hit the shelves in 2014 and has since become a television series which recently aired on Foxtel. So, if you missed it the first time around, you can catch up with all the water cooler talk about three mothers and their secrets by sneaking a peek at the newly released edition with a cover featuring stars and producers of the series Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon. Published by Pan Macmillan.

GRANTA 138 JOURNEYS

THE HELEN 100

Sigrid Rausing

Helen Razer

In the introduction to this anthology of stories editor Sigrid Rausing reveals the idea for the latest edition came from a complaint received at the publisher’s office and, valid or not, it raised a question about the ethics of travel writing. While it’s considered a creative form of nonfiction writing some writers have, in the past, been found to be too creative with their tales. What are the ethics of writing about a place you may visit only briefly and view with the eyes of an outsider? Published by Granta.

After the break-up of a 15-year relationship, journalist, writer and broadcaster Helen Razer decided to set herself a task to get over her grief and start living her life again: to go on 100 dates in a year. Will they heal her broken heart or make it worse? This is her no-holds-barred account of those dates and what happens at the end of them. Confessional, self-deprecating and funny. Published by Allen & Unwin.

THE CRYING PLACE Lisa Hills

THE UNMOURNED

“In the rear vision, the road was golden and straight and even, its length making sense of the sky, of the vast black cloud that was set to engulf it. I pulled over and got out. Stared at it, this gleaming snake – where I’d been, where it was going. The route that Jed had once taken.” Just a sample of this debut novel that journeys to the heart of the Australian desert and remote communities following a mystery death. Published by Macmillan.

Meg and Tom Keneally

THE MASSACRE OF MANKIND Stephen Baxter

Baxter is acknowledged as one of the world’s best science fiction writers and this sequel to War of the Worlds, set 14 years after the Martians invaded England, has been authorised by the HG Wells estate. The world has moved on, prepared and confident it can defeat the Martian menace but it’s not over yet and the world is thrust into the chaos of a new invasion – even Melbourne sees some explosive action in this new global war. Published by Gollancz.

This is Book Two in the Monsarrat Series by the father and daughter writing duo, following on from The Soldier’s Curse. Gentleman convict Hugh Monsarrat, transported for forging documents passing himself off as a lawyer, is now an unofficial advisor on criminal and legal matters to the governor’s secretary and is soon charged with solving a murder. He discovers that not all victims are mourned and superintendent of a convict factory Robert Church is one of them, but perpetrators still have to be punished. Published by Vintage Australia. Find more good reads at Watermark Books & Café, Newslink, Aero and News Travels, Domestic Teminal Level 2; and News Travels, International Terminal Levels 2, 3, 4.

BNE March/April 2017 | 37

ADVERTORIAL

A new champion for regional prosperity So what does a regional approach We caught up with Kevin Dupe, to banking actually mean? CEO of Regional Australia Bank to see what’s driving their success. Our customers are our owners, which

means collectively regional Australians are all equal shareholders in their Bank. Why Regional Australia Bank? So it’s no surprise that the service we Regional Australia Bank is a bank that offer is all about taking those qualities understands and backs regional we hold dear in our regional Australian Australia. It taps into the idea that we lives and reflecting them in the bank. are better when we work together, and that regional Australians deserve For example, when it comes to lending, to have a relationship with a financial we’ll ditch the loan approval queues, institution that understands what the confusion and impersonal service of makes them tick. some banks in favour of efficiency, accessibility, clarity and fast decision-making. Many of us live in Regional Australia Where the person that you talk to is in because we have a yearning for more most cases, the person who will be the space, less traffic, friendly neighbours one to sign off on your loan without and for many it’s the opportunity for a having to go through a centralised better quality of life. There is also a processing centre. desire for a stronger sense of connection, and to this extent, community We’re all about not having you spirit underpins most aspects of life endlessly repeat your story, your situain a regional centre. tion, your dreams to different people. It’s about tackling the problems you Those of us lucky enough to call might be finding complex and making Regional Australia home know what them simple and easy to understand. I am talking about and it all just adds It comes down to simple things like up to getting things done that little providing customers with a consistent bit easier. We think there is no reason point of contact and a willingness to why banking should be any different. take the time to fully understand their unique financial situation.

38 | BNE July/August 2016

This is the service expectation that our customers have come to value and is what we’re best known for. It’s more than just banking isn’t it? Being regional is all about pitching in, we feel privileged that our institution can act as a conduit for building resilient communities and helping to create better places to live. Being customer-owned, we don’t have the pressure to maximise shareholder profits. This means we can put our profits back into our business as well as distribute them to our regional communities. Our aspiration to make a difference is evident through the many community programs we operate that have seen local community groups receive over one million dollars in the form of grass roots sponsorships, charitable donations and small infrastructure projects in the last year alone - and it’s not stopping there! It’s about people helping people – this is what Regional Australia Bank is about, and we think you can’t get much closer to the Regional Australian ethos than that!

DAY IN THE LIFE

Fran Ruffle and Deborah Murray from Queensland arriving home from a holiday in New York and Las Vegas Kati Tuatini with Maia and Israel Tiraa, from Shailer Park, Brisbane, arriving home from Wellington, New Zealand

Kim Haarbrink, from Arnhem, Holland in transit to Perth at Domestic Terminal

Lixie Leatham arrives home in Brisbane from Africa to a surprise welcome from mum Vicki who flew in from Fiji

Each year more than 22 MILLION passengers travel through BRISBANE AIRPORT, the gateway to 76 CITIES across Australia and overseas and a whole WORLD OF ADVENTURE for travellers

Renee Pascuzzi from Melbourne on her way to Los Angeles for a holiday

Georgios Karavasilis at Domestic Terminal on his way home to Adelaide

Photography by Marc Grimwade

Amber Mitchell from Wellington Point, Brisbane Steve Avery stays connected while waiting for a travelling to Sydney flight to Melbourne at Domestic Terminal

Joyce Hondura, from South Morang, Melbourne in transit to Townsville where she works as a nurse

Phoebe Barratt, from Browns Plains, Brisbane, on her way to Las Vegas with her mum Raelah Lascelles (left) and Cle Morgan, a performer in the stage production Matilda at Domestic Terminal

BNE March/April 2017 | 39

BRISBANE TO THE WORLD

Tokyo (Narita) Seoul

Japan

South Korea

Shanghai (Pudong) China Taipei

Guangzhou

Dubai

Taiwan

China

United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates

Hong Kong China

Manila

Philippines

Bangkok Thailand

Singapore

Port Moresby

Denpasar

Papua New Guinea

Indonesia

Honiara

Solomon Islands

BRISBANE

Brisbane to the world

To 76 destinations direct from Brisbane and beyond

Alliance Airlines Aircalin

Air Canada

Air New Zealand

Air Niugini

Cathay Pacific

China Airlines

China Eastern Airlines

China Southern Airlines Fly Corporate

Emirates

Etihad

Eva Air

Fiji Airlines

Solomon Airlines Hawaiian Airlines

Vancouver Canada

Los Angeles USA

Honolulu

USA

Darwin

Nauru

Cairns

Nauru

Cloncurry Mount Isa

Port Hedland

Samoa

Birdsville

Espiritu Santo

Windorah

Vanuatu

Port Vila Vanuatu

Thargomindah

Nadi

Rockhampton Gladstone

Emerald

Blackall

Apia

Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Hamilton Island Mackay

Moranbah Barcaldine

Longreach

Alice Springs

Townsville

Fiji

Bundaberg Charleville Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay) Roma Miles Quilpie BRISBANE St George Toowoomba Cunnamulla Norfolk Island Moree Narrabri

Noumea

New Caledonia

Perth

Dubbo Orange

Adelaide

Wagga Wagga Albury

Newcastle

Sydney Canberra

Melbourne

Auckland New Zealand

Wellington

Launceston

New Zealand

Christchurch

Hobart

New Zealand

Dunedin

New Zealand

Queenstown New Zealand

Jetstar

Jetgo

Korean Air

Nauru Airlines

Philippine Airlines Qantas QantasLink

Rex

Singapore Airlines

Map not to scale. Please note airlines and destinations are current at time of print.

Tigerair

Thai Airways

Air Vanuatu

Virgin Australia

Armidale Coffs Harbour Tamworth Lord Howe Island Port Macquarie

GETTING TO THE CITY M4

Route Number

Exit Number Train Line

TO SUNSHINE COAST

Main Road AirportlinkM7 & Clem Jones Tunnels Brisbane CBD Service Centre

Nudgee

Banyo

BRISBANE AIRPORT

W ay

Nundah

Boggy Creek

DOMESTIC TERMINAL

So ut he rn Cr os s

Gympie Road

Sandgate Road

Airp ort Driv e

Chermside

Stafford

TO CITY

Albion

Lytton way otor yM ewa Gat

ra ge og En

ross Way rn C

Lutwyche

th S ou

Clayfield

INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL

terial Road t Ar Ea s t -Wes

Mo tor way

Stafford Ro ad

Breakfast Creek

Hamilton Eagle Farm

77 Enoggera Creek

Bowen Hills

M1 Aquarium Passage

RI V E R

Bulimba

Newstead

By pa s

Kelvin Grove Inn e r C i

Wynnum West

Spring Hill

Paddington

Morningside 15 33

BRISBANE y wa tor Mo ific Pac

West End

Main Street

Milton Co ro na tio nD riv e

BRIS BANE

Por tO fB risb ane

Windsor

Road nnum Wy

New Farm 23

Manly R oad

Norman Park TO GOLD COAST

* Map not to scale.

BNE March/April 2017 | 43

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