Bunnings Magazine August 2023

101

GIFT IDEAS FOR DAD

10 TOP GRIME BUSTERS +

MAKE YOUR GARDEN GLOW

Father’ssorted!Day

5 FAB TOOLS TO TRY + TAKE OUR BBQ QUIZ + BRILLIANT BRUNCH RECIPES

Paint it!

Table runner

Renewing rusted metal has never been easier.

Have you experienced the time-consuming hassle of trying to save and rejuvenate your rusted metal surfaces? Well now with Dulux Metalshield Rust Primer and Dulux Metalshield Rust Defence, you can easily remove and prevent rust in under a day.

This NEW fast dry technology makes it quick and easy to bring your rusted metal back to life.

The best bit? It only takes two steps to restore your rusty metal surfaces to good-as-new!

First, sand the surface to remove any flaky rust and prime your surface with Dulux Metalshield Rust Primer. This is a 2-in-1 converter and primer, meaning it blocks and stops rust while priming the surface. This results in less prep work and easier application.

Wait 1 hour after priming, then apply two or more coats of Dulux Metalshield Rust Defence until desired opacity is achieved in your chosen colour. Dulux Metalshield Rust Defence is suitable for all common metals, taking the guesswork out of identifying what type of metal you have.

To top it off, Dulux Metalshield Rust Defence is tintable to thousands of Dulux colours, so you can match it to your metal’s original colour or have fun with something new!

With this 2 step system for rusted metal, there is no longer a need to procrastinate over difficult metal projects. You will be amazed at the end results and how simple they are to achieve. Start your project today and bring life back into your metal surfaces in just one day!

To find out more, speak to a Bunnings team member.

REVOLUTIONARY TECHNOLOGY

Blocks and stops rust

2-in-1

rust converter & primer

Fast dry technology – recoat after 1 hour

Non-yellowing Water wash up

Head into store and restore your metal this weekend

SCAN QR CODE TO FIND OUT HOW TO BRING YOUR METAL SURFACES BACK TO LIFE IN A DAY!

Dulux Metalshield Rust Defence in Too Blue

T he magazine team

Editor Lisa Green

Associate editors Artemis Gouros, Caroline Botting (NZ)

Art director Bridie Mahoney

Senior designer Carol Baldas

Style editor Samantha Pointon

Chief subeditors

Catherine Sanders, Frances Pearson

Senior subeditor Lorna Gow

Digital producer

Amanda Ghalaini Yacoub

Editorial co-ordinator

Caitlin Olsen-Ludlow

Production co-ordinator

Annie Villalta-Burgett

Junior accountant Carina Law

Contributors Judie Siu, Shelley Tustin

National advertising manager

Alek Jovanoski

NSW business manager

Anthony Sullivan

Victoria business manager

Rosanna Costa

Campaign manager

Deanna Kane

Advertising enquiries

bunningsadvertising@ mediumrarecontent.com

(02) 8114 8900

General magazine enquiries

bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au

(03) 8831 9777

Managing director Nick Smith

Chief commercial officer

Fiorella di Santo

Head of sales Annii Hirst

Head of content, Food & Homes Gemma Sutherland

Head of audience intelligence

Catherine Ross

Finance controller Leslie To

Every effort has been taken to ensure instructions for DIY projects are correct. However, before you undertake any DIY activity, please ensure that you have the appropriate skills for the task at hand, use the correct tools and that you wear the appropriate safety equipment. Any professional installations must be undertaken by a licensed tradesperson. Editorial content is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice.

Published by Medium Rare

Content Agency Pty Ltd.

ABN 83 169 879 921, Level 1, 83 Bowman Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179, Botannica 3 – Level

2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121, Australia. © 2023. All rights reserved.

For any queries or feedback, please call the magazine team on (03) 8831 9777 or forward to the attention of Bunnings

Magazine Team, Botannica 3 – Level 2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121, Australia. Products featured in the magazine are on offer while stocks last. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Colours may vary slightly from images shown due to the printing process. Prices shown are Bunnings prices at the time of publication and some prices may vary in regional areas. Pricing is to be used as a guide only. This publication is not for sale.

Let’s get to it

Dream it

14 STORAGE SOLVED!

Make the most of the space you have

22 FATHER’S DAY FEAST

Try delish recipes for a day to remember

Plan it

27 THE THRILL OF THE GRILL!

Find the best option for the

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Replace outdated with outstanding

Philips LED bulbs provide you with unbeatable quality, easy to install solutions for all applications with even more variety.

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Welcome!

Unless you live in the tropical north, winter starts to wear a bit thin about now. Imagine how good you’ll feel if you use the weeks ahead to Aug-anise indoor spaces before spring arrives! Our recent Instagram poll informed our storage feature (from page 14). Kids are adept at turning tidy rooms upside down, so this issue’s DIY projects give them the chance to curate favourite artworks and books into cool displays (hopefully sparking tidy habits). Also included are great ideas for the pantry and other problem spots. And we’ve designed a super-useful hub to collect all the random bits and bobs you can re-use or re-gift,

Bedside beauty

renew or recycle, saving money and mess in one smart move. Dads and all the good guys in our lives are another special focus this month. Get ahead of Father’s Day with our gift list, our delicious BBQ brunch or a timely shed blitz. With tools and garden gear sorted you’ll be ready for action as the weather warms.

Father’s Day event

With Father’s Day just around the corner (September 3), now is a great time to ask our team members in store about gift ideas. Whether shopping for a tech-y type or an outdoors man, you can nail your gift with Bunnings! And if your dad loves a trip to the big green shed, why not bring him along to the free Father’s Day family event on August 31? There will be kids’ DIY, entertainment and more! Check with your local store for times and details and to book your spot‡

TINY TRADIES

As part of a bedroom makeover, DIY enthusiast Tamee Rene’ Brancati upcycled her bedside tables. First, she applied varnish stripper to remove the old stain and lacquer, then sanded and sprayed the raw pine with bleach to lighten the timber. The tables were painted with a satin varnish and marble drawer pulls added for the finishing touch. “I gave a new look and lease of life to my tables, which would have ended up in a council pick-up otherwise,” she says.

Before

DID YOU DIY JULY?

Have you made the most of DIY July? Our search for Australia’s best DIY project for 2023 ends on July 30, and we’ve loved watching on as new projects pop up on the Bunnings Workshop page. Huge thanks to all the clever folk who’ve entered – and to our supporting partners and fellow judges from Dulux, ScotchBlue, 3M Safety and British Paints. The 2023 winners will be revealed in our September issue – and you can check them out online, too: bunnings.com.au/diy-july-2023.

Release the tiny tradie in your family and come along to the free kids DIY workshop on August 26 to build a car caddy – just in time for Father’s Day! Customers who book online and attend the workshop can receive a free copy of the Tiny Tradie book (below; one per family until stocks last). Check your local store for details, to book your spot and see T&Cs‡.

Scan the QR code

Check family and kids’ activities and workshops at your local store – and book your spot: bunnings. com.au/DIY-workshops

COLOUR POP

Cheer up every room of your home with brand new additions. Here are our top picks, with something for the littlies, too!

THE BIG BREW

There’s nothing like freshly made tea or coffee to take the chill off a winter day – and creating the perfect cuppa has never looked so good

Royal Comfort 1000TC bamboo blended sheet & pillowcases set in Purple, $39.95*/king, I/N: 0289754

Cambridge ‘Waffle’ tea towels in Blue, $6.50*/pack of 2, I/N: 0315715

3 5

Costway PU leather dining/kitchen swivel bar stools in Red, $99.95*/set of 2, I/N: 0445929

6 8

2 1 7 4 9

0444080

La

shell armchair and velvet round ottoman footstool in Navy Blue, $229*, I/N: 0345267

MyHouse globe vase in Mango, $24.99*, I/N: 0411011

Tuff Play ‘Tuff’ 56cm kids furniture chairs in Apple Green, $38*/set of 2, I/N: 0411430

Bugatti ‘Vera Easy’ 1.7L kettle in Red, $418.50*, I/N: 0380081

I/N: 0445369

1 Beko ‘Bean to Cup’ CEG5331X espresso machine with milk cup, $599*, I/N: 0262127. 2 Urban Style 6cm/500ml enamel Turkish coffee pot in Blue, $25*, I/N: 0402346. 3 Bodum ‘Assam’ 1L tea press with stainless steel filter, $99.95*, I/N: 0456805. 4 Aerolatte ‘Mooo’ milk

Bella scallop

Costway kids double sofa chair with strawberry pillows in Pink, $159.90*,

Jason Commercial ‘Parker’ 44cm x 44cm filled cushion in Turquoise, $33*, I/N:

frother with case, $27.95*, I/N: 0160556. 5 Bodum ‘Brazil’ 8 cup coffee press in Black, $37.95*, I/N: 0160491. 6 Spector coffee machine in Mint, $129*, I/N: 0434398. 7 Healthy Choice 1.2L digital glass kettle with tea infuser, $79.95*, I/N: 0388952. 8 Barista Mate digital iced coffee maker with cup, $59.95*, I/N: 0481325.

9 Asobu ‘Cold Brew’ portable coffee maker, $123.96*, I/N: 0274409. 10 Baccarat ‘The Flavour Maker’ coffee & spice grinder, $59.99*, I/N: 0382826. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

It’s tomato time! Start them indoors by sowing seeds in trays in seed-raising mix. Position in a bright, warm spot and mist often to keep slightly moist. Transplant when seedlings are 5-7cm.

Improve soil condition in pots and garden beds with a soil wetter. This will help water penetrate deeply, getting to the roots where it’s needed most.

Love the idea of a citrus tree? There are many: lemon, lime, orange, cumquat, calamondin and mandarin, including dwarf varieties. Apply a citrus fertiliser at planting and during the growing season.

3 4

Prevent leaf curl disease on stone fruit trees by applying a fungicide just before they blossom. Timing is critical and coverage should be thorough.

CRAFTY DIY

Making and mending is about to get easier with Ryobi’s new range of hobby and crafting tools, in store now. Look out for the upcycling kit, heat and compact glue guns, sheet and orbital sanders, plus a new range of rotary tools. Start planning your projects now!

In tropical climes, give your hungry grass a feed with a complete lawn food. In temperate and cool areas, hold off fertilising until the weather warms up.

1 Scotts Osmocote ‘Seed & Cutting’ premium potting mix, $8.68/10L, I/N: 3020058.

2 Seasol ‘Super Soil’ wetter and conditioner, $13.96/1.2L, I/N: 0029269. 3 Richgro ‘Black Marvel’ fruit and citrus food liquid fertiliser concentrate, $13.48/1L, I/N: 0133325. 4 Yates ‘Liquid Copper’ fungicide, $21.54/200ml, I/N: 3010236.

5 Munns Professional ‘Buffalo Booster’ lawn fertiliser, $25.59/5kg, I/N: 0049346. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Tidy up

Get your home in order at the end of winter so you can enjoy more time outdoors when spring arrives

1 2 6

BASIL

Pairs perfectly with tomatobased dishes. Position in full sun, liquid-feed fortnightly and harvest leaves often.

PARSLEY

Place this herb in full sun and apply a liquid fertiliser regularly. Parsley is great as a garnish in soups and salads.

CHIVES

With a mild onion flavour, use as a garnish at the end of cooking to keep its flavour. Grow chives in full sun.

Scan the QR code

For more on what to do in the garden during August, go to bunnings.com.au/gardencorner

After applying fertiliser around edible plants, delay harvesting for a few days and rinse well before cooking and eating. If using products to deal with pests, diseases or weeds, or when handling compost or mulch, always read the label, follow instructions carefully and wear gloves, a mask and suitable protective equipment. Store all garden chemicals and products out of reach of children and pets.

3 5 4 7 8

1 Wrap & Move 105L moving bag, $3, I/N: 2610100. 2 Vileda ‘Turbo’ easy wring and clean mop with 2 refills, $55, I/N: 0101962. 3 Pinnacle 1830mm x 1200mm x 410mm 5-tier shelving unit, $131.16, I/N: 2760459. 4 Sabco extendable feathered microfibre duster with flexible head, $23.99, I/N: 0080866. 5 Ryobi ‘Link’ 2 piece rolling tool box kit, $249, I/N: 0455982. 6 Kärcher ‘WV2’ premium window vacuum cleaner in Black, $125, I/N: 0111141. 7 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V hand vacuum, $99/tool only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0379580. 8 VAX ‘Platinum Spot Wash VACSC21E’

0379575.

spot cleaner, $169, I/N:

(From left) Ryobi 16 piece carving and engraving kit, $39.99, I/N: 0438475, 130W corded rotary tool, $69, I/N: 0456165, and USB lithium 4V cutting tool, $89, I/N: 0438329.

TURNYOURHOME’SMESSIESTCORNERSINTOMARVELSOF

Styling assistant Katie Turner. Paint colours may vary on application.

(On shelf) Crafted 26cm x 11cm x 8cm plywood crate, $10, I/N: 0323873. (In drawer, from left) Boxsweden 38cm x 27cm x 21cm large wire basket in assorted colours, $8.50, I/N: 0231558. Crafted 32cm x 17cm x 12cm plywood crate, $15, I/N: 0323871. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

MAKE IT KIDS’ ART GALLERY, SEE PAGE 16

Encourage the kids to curate their favourite artworks – and play florist, too. Turn the page and see page 72 for these easy upcycling how-tos

Porter’s Paints ‘Eggshell Finish’ broadwall washable paint in Sundance, $11.10/ 100ml, I/N: 0162895.

VELCRO Brand 22mm stick-on hook and loop dots in White, $9.34/pack of 40, I/N: 3960015. 3M

‘Command’ large adhesive picture hanging strips in White, $18/value pack of 12, I/N: 3950426. Gold bulldog clips, Officeworks, officeworks.com.au.

Storage pain points – we’ve all got them, and most households are probably struggling with the same clutter bombs: the toy tsunami, the overflowing linen cupboard, or the museum exhibit of foodstuffs at the back of the pantry. Read on for the most common storage complaints and ways to tame the chaos – without breaking the bank.

1

Under the stairs clutter

That empty space under a staircase relentlessly attracts loose shoes, dog toys, school bags and dust bunnies. There are a range of options to turn this chaotic corner into a dedicated storage space, depending on your budget. Lachlan King of Flexi Storage suggests Clever Cube storage units in ascending sizes. “Pair them with a range of colourful and practical inserts for hidden storage,” says Lachlan.

Modular strip and bracket systems are the next level of DIY solutions. This option is ideal if you want an evolving space that can be adapted to your needs over time by adding different shelves and accessories.

Chelsea Smith of The Organising Platform (theorganisingplatform.com) suggests enclosing the under-stair area with hinged doors or panels that blend in with the surrounding walls. “This can be useful for storing larger items, or those you don’t frequently need to access, such as suitcases.”

If space and budget allow, this dead space can be transformed into your home’s most exciting storage secret – convert it into a cellar, add a desk and shelves to make it a home office or install cupboards to corral the kids’ craft clutter.

KIDS’ ART GALLERY

Gather an assortment of picture frames. Remove the backing boards and glass panels. Clean frames, then prime and paint in the same colour (sample pots will do, or use leftover paint from other projects). Use Velcro dots to attach gold bulldog clips on the wall inside the frames, then position your kids’ artworks in the frames, swapping them regularly.

2Pantry shambles

Start by culling any expired items and using up duplicates. This will instantly create more room. Group the remaining items into categories – baking supplies, cans, snacks, condiments – so they’re easier to find. Then it’s all about making the most of every bit of space. “Invest in storage baskets, turntables and shelf risers to maximise your pantry space,” says Chelsea. Clear, stackable containers are useful for dry goods and small food packets. Keep loose veg in

“When evaluating under-stair space, be aware of limitations like low ceilings and irregular shapes”

Lachlan King, Flexi Storage

ABOVE A customisable gallery is a great way to show off kids’ drawings and paintings while cutting back on clutter

ABOVE For best use of space, combine height adjustable shelves with drawers of varying depth baskets, however, store onions and potatoes separately, as they have a shorter shelf life when stored together. Make the most of vertical space with adjustable shelves and undershelf baskets, and don’t forget wall and door space, says Lachlan. “Wall strips can even be installed on the back of your pantry door with over-door hooks, then you can add wire baskets for storing spices and other small items.”

Once your pantry is in order, ongoing maintenance should be simple. “Practise a first-in, first-out system to avoid food waste,” says Chelsea. “Place newly purchased items behind older ones to ensure you use older items before they expire,” she says. “Then schedule regular pantry maintenance sessions to keep it organised and functional.” 

ABOVE (second shelf) Boxsweden 24.5cm x 18.5cm x 12cm small wire baskets in assorted colours, $3.50/set of 2, I/N: 0231555. RIGHT (second shelf) Boxsweden 38cm x 27cm x 21cm large wire basket in assorted colours, $8.50, I/N: 0231558, and (fifth shelf) ‘Crystal Nest’ 36.5cm x 15cm x 11cm storage tub, $7.48, I/N: 0281308. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

“Set aside time every few months to declutter, clean and reorganise your pantry”

Chelsea Smith, professional home organiser

Messy linen cupboard

First off, be brutal! “Consider donating or recycling anything that hasn’t been used in the last 12 months to free up space,” says Lachlan King. “You’ll find yourself back in the same situation in a few months’ time if you just rearrange the mess you already have.”

Categorise your linens – bath towels, beach towels, pillowcases –then decide how you want to store them. “Small boxes and drawer dividers can offer an easy solution for keeping smaller items – like hand towels, tea towels and washers –organised,” says Lachlan. He suggests

rolling beach and bath towels to help maximise space and improve visibility. “Then place them in wire baskets to help keep them from unrolling, while not obstructing visibility and allowing for air circulation,” he adds. Spare blankets, duvets and pillows are space hogs, so minimise their volume by compressing into vacuum bags and stash on high shelves out of the way.

If you use this cupboard for storing cleaning products too, group them in baskets or boxes. This will keep them away from linen and towels – and you can pull the whole basket out of the cupboard for cleaning sessions.

Need to increase storage in your home? Check out these solutions: bunnings.com.au/lugna Read

Label each container or bin so its contents are organised and easily accessible

Entryway obstacle course

Tripping over ‘stuff’ dumped near the front door of your home? Use that pile of bits and pieces, whether shoes, bags, umbrellas or all of the above, to guide you in designing the ideal storage solution for your family. Keep in mind the size of your space. If there’s room, add a bench seat. “This serves as a convenient spot for putting on and taking off shoes,” says Chelsea Smith. “Place baskets on shelves or under the bench to contain smaller

items like gloves, scarves and other miscellaneous objects. Then label each basket or bin to easily locate and access items when needed.”

Utilise wall space, too, such as hooks for coats and hats, or a floating shelf with a decorative bowl for keys or mail. “Hang a mirror in your hallway as a functional and decorative element,” suggests Chelsea. “This allows for a last-minute check before heading out the door and can make the space feel more open and inviting.”

ABOVE Montgomery 34cm x 27cm x 14cm stackable drawers in White, $8.98 each: single, I/N: 0286345, and vertical twin, I/N: 0286349. LEFT Recycling station, see page 74 for DIY instructions. (On shelves, from top) Mr Clean shoe brush, $3.29, I/N: 4460431. Grunt jute twine, $3.20/75m, I/N: 4310292, and cotton shop twine, $8.30/300m, I/N: 4310543. Trojan general purpose scissors, $8.98/pack of 2, I/N: 0191107. Prayer plant in The Good Pot Co. ‘Roxy’ 16cm x 16cm indoor pot in Green, $16.98, I/N: 0430422 (plant sold separately). Boyle essentials brush value pack, $16.96, I/N: 0115222. (On workbench, from left) Mirabella ‘Tuana’ table lamp, $79.95, I/N: 0423299 (globe sold separately). Practa Solutions paper towel holder in Chrome, $6.17, I/N: 2669887 (holding paper raffia rolls). (Under workbench, from left) Ezy Storage multi purpose organiser box, $13, I/N: 0204849. Montgomery vertical twin stackable drawer, as before. Boxsweden ‘Crystal Nest’ 36.5cm x 25cm x 11cm storage tub, $10.43, I/N: 0281315, containing Jack 50mm jute plant tie/webbing, $5.79/10m, I/N: 0127348, and 4.5mm twisted paper rope, $10.79/40m, I/N: 0188974; Crafted 6mm macrame cord in White, $12.50/50m, I/N: 0323853; Wrap & Move 300mm honeycomb paper wrap, $12.98/10m, I/N: 0254423, and paper filler, $6.98/250g, I/N: 0424150. (On floor) Pinnacle 15L metal buckets, $17.89 each, I/N: 4460519. Paper raffia, Officeworks, officeworks.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

The kids’ room toy-nado

We Insta-polled Bunnings followers and 41 per cent said the house only stays tidy for one hour after cleaning. The likely culprits? Toys – from both kids and pets. Chelsea advises implementing a rotation system.

“Store some toys out of sight and periodically swap them with the ones currently in use,” she says. “This keeps the selection of toys fresh and exciting while minimising the number available at any given time.”

You could also try using a similar system for books, keeping the current rotation displayed on photo shelves. To tackle piles of art, put them on display (see page 16 for one way to make use of old frames).

To tame toys, use separate tubs for different types, and opt for low storage kids can easily access to encourage them to pack things away on their own. “Flexi Storage Clever Cube units make great shelves and can be paired with colourful inserts to brighten up your child’s play area while providing hidden storage,” suggests Lachlan. 

Flexi Storage ‘Decorative Shelving’ 600mm floating photo shelves in Oak, $10 each, I/N: 0127431. Dulux ‘Wash&Wear’ low sheen interior paint in Potter’s Pink, $59.50/1L, I/N: 1370161. Rug, for similar try Home Bazar ‘Bahama’ 120cm round jute rug in Natural, $35, I/N: 0240463. Play tent and cushions, Adairs, adairs.com.au. Assorted toys, Kmart, kmart.com. au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Keep in mind...

n When using power tools, wear the appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area.

n Before drilling into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional.

SCALLOP SHELVES

Add a sweet, handmade touch to the kids’ reading nook

Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (gloves, mask, eye and ear protection)

n Tape measure and pencil

n Circular saw

n Jar or tin (less than 100mm diameter)

n Jigsaw

n 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block

n Microfibre cloth

n Mini microfibre roller with tray

n Clamps

n 3mm plywood•

n Primer

n Interior acrylic paint

n Timber adhesive

n 600mm floating photo shelves

1 Measure plywood and mark two 600mm wide by 100mm high pieces, then cut out with a circular saw. Use a jar or tin to draw semi-circles on long edges of the plywood pieces. Use a jigsaw to cut out curves.

2 Sand all cut edges until smooth and wipe over with a damp cloth to remove dust. Apply primer and two coats of paint to both sides of plywood cut-outs with mini roller, leaving to dry after each coat.

3 Apply a bead of adhesive to long edge of each scallop piece, position against front edge of photo shelf, clamp and leave to dry.

4 Install floating shelves according to manufacturer’s instructions, using supplied fixings and fasteners suitable for your type of wall.

1.

2. WIPE

3. EASY!

CREATE A BESPOKE TABLE RUNNER

We cut a length from a new canvas drop sheet, shaped a half-circle from scrap packaging foam and used this to stamp on our design using Taubmans Silver Leaf paint to complement our coloured tableware.*

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’ 4 burner LCC27 barbecue, $349, I/N: 0348328. Mimosa ‘Solaris’ 220cm x 90cm slat dining table in White, $569, I/N: 0260504, and 200cm x 40cm slat benches in White, $299 each, I/N: 0260499. Protector Aluminium ‘Oriental Deco’ 900mm x 1800mm screen panel in Surfmist, $205, I/N: 3041171. Lilly Pilly plant in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 37cm egg pot in White, $72.58, I/N: 0252488. Marquee ‘Harbour’ 1 seater lounges in Brush White, $289 each, I/N: 0256323. Mimosa ‘Woolamai’ round market umbrella, $169, I/N: 3192696. Bacopa plants in Northcote Pottery ‘Italian’ 15cm terracotta cylinder pots in Greige, $8.69 each, I/N: 0044329. Calibrachoa plant in Northcote Pottery ‘Italian’ 20cm terracotta cylinder pot in Greige, $17.38, I/N: 0044330. Citronella 10cm pillar candle in White, $6/pack of 2, I/N: 0289138. Waxworks 15cm citronella pillar candle in White, $6.45, I/N: 0289387. Matador 3 piece barbecue non-stick tool set in Black, $38.16, I/N: 3171754. All plants sold separately. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Father’s Day feast

IF DAD LOVES A BACKYARD BARBIE, THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE THE DAY THAN WITH THIS WINNING BRUNCH MENU

Photography CATH MUSCAT Styling SAMANTHA POINTON

Styling assistant KATIE TURNER Recipes KERRIE WORNER

Fire up the grill and treat Dad to a special meal this Father’s Day. From tasty bacon and egg cups to mouth-watering barbecue ribs, there’s something for everyone. It’s also the perfect opportunity for Dad to try out his new favourite gift or gadget for cooking up a storm.

BACON, EGG AND SPINACH CUPS

PRAWNS KILPATRICK

GRILLED PORTOBELLOS WITH SPINACH AND HERB SALSA VERDE

APPLE, CORN AND CORIANDER SLAW WITH LIME RANCH DRESSING (RECIPE OVER PAGE)

TEXAS SMOKY BARBECUE RIBS

BACON, EGG AND SPINACH CUPS

MAKES 6

n 100g baby spinach leaves

n 3 large slices white bread, crusts removed

n Cooking oil spray

n 9 slices (225g) rindless streaky bacon

n 6 eggs

n 80g marinated Danish-style feta

n 300g can baked beans in ham sauce, warmed

n Salt and pepper

1 Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Put the spinach in a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Drain immediately and set aside to cool. Squeeze the spinach to remove excess water.

2 Cut the bread slices in half. Use a rolling pin to flatten slightly. Spray a 6-hole Texas muffin pan with cooking oil spray.

3 Line the sides of each hole with 11/2 slices bacon. Press 1 piece of bread into the base and up the sides of each hole. Crack 1 egg into each hole. Crumble feta on top of the egg whites and top with half the spinach.

4 Place the pan directly on the barbecue hotplate and cook with the lid down for 15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

5 Top with the remaining spinach and serve with warmed baked beans. Season to taste.

PRAWNS KILPATRICK

SERVES 6

n 9 slices (225g) rindless streaky bacon

n 18 large raw prawns, peeled and deveined, tails intact

n Olive oil, to drizzle

n Salt and pepper

n 1/3 cup whole-egg mayonnaise

n 2 tsp lemon juice

n 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

n 1 tbsp barbecue sauce

n 2 tsp sriracha or chilli sauce

n Chopped dill, to garnish

1 Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Cut the bacon slices in half crossways. Wrap 1 piece of bacon around each prawn and secure with a toothpick. Place on an oven tray and drizzle with oil. Season to taste.

2 Cook on the hotplate with the lid down for 5 minutes or until the prawns curl and change colour and the bacon is golden.

3 Combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice and sauces in a small bowl. Drizzle a serving plate with the dressing and sprinkle with dill. Top with prawns and serve with the remaining dressing on the side. Tip: You can buy prawns already peeled or peel your own. Depending on the size of the prawns you may need to cut the bacon to different lengths to wrap around the prawns.

GRILLED PORTOBELLOS WITH SPINACH AND HERB SALSA

SERVES 4-6

n 2 tbsp olive oil

VERDE

n 60g butter, melted

n 1 tbsp chopped thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs to garnish

n 2 garlic cloves, crushed

n 8 large portobello mushrooms

n 2 tbsp chopped walnuts

SPINACH AND HERB SALSA VERDE

n 60g baby spinach leaves

n 2 tbsp chopped chives

n 1 tbsp thyme leaves

n ½ cup olive oil

n 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

n Salt and pepper

1 To make the salsa verde, place the spinach, chives and thyme in a food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the oil and vinegar and season to taste. Process until just combined, then transfer to a bowl, cover and set aside until needed.

2 Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Combine the oil, butter, thyme and garlic in a bowl. Generously brush the mushrooms with the oil mixture, place on the barbecue hotplate, stem-side up, and brush with more oil mixture. Close the lid and cook for 8 minutes. Turn the mushrooms and cook, stem-side down, for a further 2 minutes or until tender and lightly charred.

3 Transfer the mushrooms to a large serving platter and top with salsa verde and sprinkle with chopped walnut. Garnish with extra thyme sprigs to serve.

TEXAS SMOKY BARBECUE RIBS

SERVES 4

n 2 racks (1.5kg) pork ribs

n 1 onion, quartered

n 40g Texas BBQ rub or smoky spice mix

n 4 garlic cloves, crushed

n 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for cooking

n ¾ cup smoky barbecue sauce

n 1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce

1 Bring a stock pot of water to the boil over high heat. Remove the thin membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. Add the ribs and onion to the saucepan and simmer for 40 minutes.

2 Drain the ribs, discarding the onion. Place the ribs on a plate to set aside to cool. Sprinkle both sides of the ribs with rub or spice mix and garlic, and massage into the meat. Drizzle with oil.

3 Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Cook the ribs on the hotplate with the lid down for 5 minutes each side or until starting to colour.

4 Combine the barbecue sauce, wing sauce and ¼ cup water in a bowl. Brush both sides of the ribs with the mixture. Cook on the hotplate with the lid down, basting and drizzling with extra oil halfway through cooking, for 5-7 minutes each side or until charred.

5 Transfer the ribs to a foil tray. Cover with foil and set aside for 10 minutes, then cut into individual ribs. Bring the remaining sauce to the boil in a microwave-safe jug in the microwave or in a saucepan over high heat. Pour over the ribs and toss to coat. Arrange on a platter and serve.

ABOVE Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’ 4 burner LCC27 barbecue, $349, I/N: 0348328. Matador 3 piece barbecue non-stick tool set in Black, $38.16, I/N: 3171754. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

APPLE, CORN AND CORIANDER SLAW WITH LIME RANCH DRESSING

SERVES 6

n 3 Rockit apples, quartered, cored, thinly sliced

n 1 tbsp lemon juice

n ¼ red cabbage (about 400g), thinly sliced

n 1 green capsicum, thinly sliced

n 300g can corn kernels, drained

n 5 spring onions, thinly sliced

n 1 cup chopped coriander

LIME RANCH DRESSING

n 100ml milk

n 1 lime, zest finely grated, juiced

n ½ cup whole-egg mayonnaise

n Salt and pepper

1 Place the sliced apple in a small bowl and drizzle with lemon juice to help prevent browning. Combine the cabbage, capsicum, corn, spring onion, coriander and apple in a large serving bowl.

2 To make the lime ranch dressing, combine the milk and 3 teaspoons lime juice in a screw-top jar. Set aside for 10 minutes to thicken. Add the lime zest and mayonnaise. Season to taste. Shake until smooth and well combined.

3 Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to combine. Tip: Any remaining dressing can be kept in the fridge for up to 1 week.

STEAK SANDWICH PLOUGHMAN’S BOARD

SERVES 6

n Olive oil, for cooking

n 2 large brown onions, thinly sliced

n 6 x 5mm thick slices (about 100g each) scotch fillet steaks

n 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning

n 12 slices sourdough

n 1 garlic clove, halved

n 3 tsp horseradish cream, plus extra to serve

n ¼ cup sour cream

n 1/3 cup mayonnaise

n Salt and pepper

n 1 large tomato, cut into slices

n Cornichons, to serve

n Rocket leaves, to serve

n Barbecue sauce

1 Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Drizzle the hotplate with oil and cook the onion until soft and golden brown. Lightly coat the steaks with oil and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning.

2 Brush both sides of each sourdough slice with oil and rub with the cut side of the garlic. Place on the barbecue grill and cook, turning, until toasted on both sides.

3 Combine horseradish cream, sour cream and mayonnaise in a bowl; season to taste.

4 Increase the barbecue heat to mediumhigh. Cook the steaks on the grill for 2 minutes each side or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.

LCC27 barbecue, $349, I/N: 0348328. Matador 3 piece barbecue non-stick tool set in Black, $38.16, I/N: 3171754. Matador barbecue apron, $17.18/ large, I/N: 3171332. Jumbuck rectangular foil trays, $12.98/pack of 20, I/N: 3170880. Matador wireless smart thermometer with 2 probes, $53.70, I/N: 0281535. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

5 Arrange the bread, onion, steak, tomato, cornichons and rocket on a large board. Add bowls of horseradish cream and barbecue sauce for guests to help themselves. Tip: Scotch fillet steaks are available in supermarkets, or ask your local butcher to cut them for you. You could also use thin sirloin steaks.

STEAK SANDWICH PLOUGHMAN’S BOARD

ABOVE and TOP Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’ 4 burner

THE THRILL OF THE GRILL!

WHAT KIND OF ALFRESCO COOK IS YOUR DAD? TAKE OUR QUIZ TO FIND OUT AND PAIR HIM WITH HIS BEST BARBIE

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

1

Where’s his favourite place to grill?

A In the great outdoors, at the beach or by the light of a camp fire.

B Near the kitchen, so he can quickly grill, serve and get back to the footy.

C Anywhere, as long as it has wi-fi.

D In the midst of a crowd, with plenty of room for half the neighbourhood to gather.

E Somewhere with lots of space for him to prep.

2

What’s his favourite barbecue accessory?

A A carry bag for toting his grilling gear from car to picnic spot.

B Tongs. What else is there?

C A smart meat thermometer. No, wait – a motorised rotisserie kit.

D A ‘license to grill’ apron and lots of platters.

E A huge marinade spray bottle, a selection of rubs and a mini herb garden.

3

Who does he most like to cook for?

A The family, plus whoever wanders past the camp site.

B Just a few – family and close mates.

MOSTLY As: The Picnicker He’s happiest in the great outdoors. His signature scent is sunscreen, salt spray and grilled snags.

C Anyone who wants to come and check out his fancy new meat smoker.

D As many as he can cram into the backyard.

E Anyone who appreciates a gourmet grill – and who brings a sensational salad.

4

What’s his must-have barbecue feature?

A A handle for easy carrying

B An easy fuel source and quick ignition.

C Bluetooth control, for ramping up the grill from the couch.

D Masses of grill and flat plate space.

E Multiple cooking surfaces.

MOSTLY Bs: The Quiet Achiever He’s the fastest snag spinner in the land, whose priority is getting good food on the table quickly.

MOSTLY Cs: The Gadget Guru He’s a tech whizz with a passion for the new. Give him a shiny toy to play with and you’ll never go hungry.

PERFECT UNION MATCH THE COOK TO THE GRILLS ON OUR BARBECUE BUYER’S GUIDE, SEE PAGE 29

5 Is he a gourmet cook?

A Not really, but if you bring it, he’ll grill it.

B No, but for a quick seared steak and fistful of snags, he’s your man.

C Yes, trying new things is his jam.

D Yes, his brisket brings all the neighbours to the door.

E Yes, he takes his cooking seriously. We call him the Flavour Saviour.

MOSTLY Ds: The Entertainer He’s a crowdpleasing cook and always the centre of every gathering. Feeding people is his love language.

MOSTLY Es: The Master Chef He’s a gourmet who is never happier than when trying a new recipe. His mission is to surprise and delight.

Photography Brigid Arnott, styling Tilly Roberts.

BARBECUE LIKE A BOSS

GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON THE LATEST IN OUTDOOR COOKING

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

Gathering your favourite people together over an open-air cook-up is one of the great joys of Aussie life. Read on to discover the barbies best suited to the chief griller in your household.

What’s new in barbecues?

A simple grill plate is just the beginning, says Bunnings barbecue buyer David Hardie. “An exciting innovation is barbecues with a built-in air fryer and separate warming basket, allowing you to do a side of chips,” he says. Add accessories – from a rotisserie kit to a pizza stone – and there’s virtually nothing you can’t cook on a barbie!

Greg Trezise of Thermofilm (Crossray) says interest in electric barbecues is building, with some models boasting a high-intensity infra-red element that delivers the sizzle of a gas burner. “The new Crossray electric barbecue [available in September 2023] has full LED digital display, a meat probe and is the only electric barbecue compatible with a rotisserie,” he says.

On the fuel front, charcoal and wood pellet smokers are enjoying a rebirth, says David: “Customers are trying out ‘low and slow’ cooking styles.”

Smart technology is bringing modern convenience, too. “In-built bluetooth/ wi-fi components allow you to see on your phone the temperature within your barbecue, so you can do other activities while it cooks,” says David.

Define your barbecue style

To pick the perfect barbie, consider the space you’re in, how many people you need to feed and your cooking style.

THE PICNICKER

For this outdoor lover, the top priority is portability – the barbecue needs to be small, lightweight and ideally with handles or a carry bag.

“Don’t just think about the barbecue, but also the gas bottle,” says Greg. Or opt for an electric grill. “The Crossray portable electric barbecue is perfect for camping, when you have access to a mains-powered site,” he says. Charcoal grills also tick the box. Check if you need a grill plate, a solid flat plate, or both.

THE

QUIET ACHIEVER

This modest outdoor cook likes to serve up the sizzle fast. Infrared technology, as used in the Crossray series, is a good fit. “It cooks food juicier, faster and uses 50 per cent less gas than a traditional gas barbecue,” explains Greg. And convenience is important, so a gas or plug-in electric model gets the tick.

THE GADGET

GURU

This chef loves trying new things. They’re a tech head at heart, so consider bluetooth controllers for compatible grills or a smart meat thermometer to alert their smartphone when the steak is perfectly cooked.

THE ENTERTAINER

A six-burner is the go for this social barbecuer, says David, and they might also love a rotisserie grill or offset

smoker for slow-cooking hunks of meat. An outdoor kitchen is the next step. “It has the convenience of a barbecue, fridge and sink in one place,” says Greg.

THE MASTER CHEF

Flexibility is the key for this keen cook, who loves to experiment. Gas or electric barbecues are great but pellet smokers let them show off their grilling prowess, says David: “The Pit Boss and CharGriller brands are perfect for this.”

Scan

See all the different barbecue options in action: bunnings.com.au/ guide-to-barbecues

Whether Dad’s idea of the ultimate spread is sausage on bread or a gourmet masterpiece, there’s a barbecue to suit

The Picnicker

Jumbuck 32cm portable charcoal grill barbecue, $19.98, I/N: 0038708

Jumbuck 2 burner LCC27 hooded portable gas barbecue, $239, I/N: 0348701

Crossray electric portable barbecue, $599, I/N: 0351964†

Jumbuck 2 burner LCC27 tabletop barbecue, $119, I/N: 0353019

The Quiet Achiever

Crossray 4 burner infrared barbecue, $1,999, I/N: 0106531†

Matador ‘Conquest’ 4 burner gas barbecue, $699, I/N: 0344343

Jumbuck ‘Portland’ 4 burner LCC27 hooded gas barbecue, $229, I/N: 0348685

Matador ‘Edge’ 3 burner LCC27 hooded gas barbecue, $699, I/N: 0348703

The Gadget Guru

Matador surface infrared thermometer, $29.95, I/N: 0276145

The Entertainer

Matador extendable barbecue hood light, $40.80, I/N: 3171336

Pit Boss ‘Pro Series 4’ vertical smoker with wi-fi and bluetooth, $899, I/N: 0256541†

Inkbird 4 probe smart wireless barbecue thermometer, $89.95, I/N: 0149046

The Master Chef

Jumbuck ‘Astro’ 6 burner LCC27 barbecue, $549, I/N: 0348326

Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’ 4 burner LCC27 outdoor kitchen, $599, I/N: 0348329

Matador ‘Palladium’ 6 burner LCC27 barbecue, $929, I/N: 0348334

Jumbuck ‘Club’ 6 burner LCC27 gas grill, $349, I/N: 0348682

Jumbuck barbecue smoker with offset sidebox, $198, I/N: 0066301

Char-Griller ‘Competition Pro’ offset smoker, $599, I/N: 0088369

Pit Boss ‘Lexington’ pellet smoker, $599, I/N: 0353726

Char-Griller ‘Deluxe’ charcoal barbecue, $229, I/N: 3180388

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

†Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for setting up and using your barbecue. Keep children and pets away from barbecues and gas cylinders.

Clean as a whistle

Cleanfluencer Jess Brouwer (@_prettyliving) knows her products, and she says two dirty tasks can now be tackled with no hassle. Thanks to DIGGERS™ Wall Cleanup, removing stubborn marks from walls has never been easier. Plus, dirty driveway but no pressure washer? No problem, says Jess, if you have DIGGERS™ Driveway Cleanup

REMOVE SCUFFS AND MARKS WITH DIGGERS™ WALL CLEANUP

Step 1: Spray DIGGERS™ Wall Cleanup onto the affected surface.

Step 2: Wipe the surface clean with a microfibre cloth.

Step 3: Leave to dry. No need to rinse the surface as DIGGERS™ Wall Cleanup does not leave a residue. For extra-stubborn marks or permanent marker, try DIGGERS™ Graffiti Remover

CLEAN YOUR CONCRETE WITH DIGGERS™ DRIVEWAY CLEANUP

Step 1: Sweep the area to remove any excess dirt or debris.

Step 2: Apply DIGGERS™ Driveway Cleanup to the affected areas. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when using this product. Step 3: Using a broom or stiff-

bristle brush, scrub the solution over the affected areas and leave to soak for a few minutes. Step 4: Rinse the area thoroughly with water and leave to dry.

DIGGERS™ Driveway Cleanup is water-based and biodegradable.

These DIGGERS™ cleaning products can remove two of your most common household problems with ease

1 DIGGERS™ ‘Wall Cleanup’ internal wall cleaning spray, $6.95/500ml, I/N: 0379464.

2 DIGGERS™ ‘Driveway Cleanup’ liquid cleaner, $9.95/1L, I/N: 0379466

GIFT GUIDE

Father’s Day

WHETHER HE LOVES TECH, DIY OR THE GREAT OUTDOORS, MAKE HIS DAY WITH OUR TOP PICKS

0192693.

0355536. 4

‘Stick Up Cam Battery’ indoor/outdoor security

I/N: 0173106. 5

Black,

digital smart tyre gauge, $47.50, I/N: 0064856. 6

I/N: 0178707. 7 Orion 1080p HD

1080p HD smart wireless video doorbell

Grid Connect

security camera with Grid Connect and rechargeable battery in White,

I/N: 0333166. 8 Holman ‘WX1’ tap timer and wi-fi hub, $99, I/N: 0246021. 9 Arlec ‘Smart Light Grid’ RGB desktop bar light, $49/twin pack, I/N: 0422770. 10 Arlec 5L smart pet feeder with Grid Connect, $99, I/N: 0397259. 11 WiZ smart plug accessory, $33.95, I/N: 0331090. 12 Swann 2K indoor wi-fi camera, $89, I/N: 0401319. 13 Arlec smart extension lead with Grid Connect, $39.73/10m, I/N: 0098824. 14 Matador 2 probes wireless smart meat thermometer, $53.70, I/N: 0281535. 15 Arlec ‘Grid Connect’ 2m smart LED white and colour changing strip light with remote, $38, I/N: 0208822. 16 Arlec ‘Smart Light Grid’ RGB bar light, $99/set of 3, I/N: 0422771. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

1 Orion ‘Pan and Tilt’ 1080p HD smart security camera with Grid Connect in White, $47, I/N: 0261694. 2 Ring ‘2nd Generation’ video doorbell in Venetian Bronze, $148, I/N:

3 Lytworx bi-colour low voltage smart strip light, $52/5m, I/N:

Ring

camera, $175,

Kincrome

Orion

with

in

$99,

smart outdoor

$99,

The gift dad will love.

The Work. the tunes.

LESS THAN

GREAT OUTDOORS

HOT PRICE $10

Easy to carry

LESS THAN $15

49 Bunnings cap with metal pin in Black, $3, I/N: 8510135. 50 Esky ‘Chilla’ 26L hard cooler, $44.95, I/N: 0138506. 51 Coleman 3m x 3m gazebo inner tent kit, $149, I/N: 0189194. 52 Jumbuck single burner LCC27 hooded portable gas barbecue, $189, I/N: 0348702. 53 Click LED rechargeable camping lantern, $26, I/N: 0346163. 54 Esky ‘Xpand’ 30 can premium soft cooler in Navy, $47.87, I/N: 0373488. 55 Click LED spotlight torch, $10, I/N: 0346167. 56 Gasmate camping LPG gas cylinder, $39.95/4kg, I/N: 3232969 (gas not included). 57 Glow ‘Barossa’ fire pit with grill, ash cleaner and cover, $219, I/N: 0414976. 58 Hard Yakka ‘Icon’ sport safety shoes in Black, $129/size 11, I/N: 0183095. 59 Marquee folding canvas foot stool in Cream, $34.90, I/N: 0375405. 60 Marquee 190cm x 100cm polycotton hammock in Blue, $25.68/single, I/N: 0215108. 61 Swiss+Tech 550lm rechargeable 6 mode LED headlamp, $59.99, I/N: 0329664. 62 Esky 30 can hybrid soft cooler, $39.90, I/N: 0327177. 63 Everdure by Heston Blumenthal ‘Cube’ portable charcoal barbecue in Graphite, $180, I/N: 3180829. 64 Gasmate single burner portable BBQ/butane stove, $24.95, I/N: 0035119. 65 Marquee ‘Adventurer’ camp chair in Blue, $11.98, I/N: 0127444. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

LESS THAN $20

WHAT’S COOKING $35 FOR

Portable and lightweight

LESS THAN $10

66 Matador ‘Pit Master’ BBQ essentials tool set, $35, I/N: 0368335. 67 Butchers Axe ‘El Fuego’ Mexican style BBQ hot sauce, $11.50/425ml, I/N: 0345583. 68 Barbecue Mafia ‘Shakedown’ sticky rib glaze/BBQ sauce, $11.50/425ml, I/N: 0345585. 69 Mimosa ‘Malibu’ bar stool with cushion, $159, I/N: 0256329. 70 Matador enamelled cast iron skillet, $35.95, I/N: 3171792. 71 Matador stackable pizza stone, $33.95, I/N: 3171767. 72 Jumbuck ‘Torino’ woodfire pizza oven, $199, I/N: 3180885. 73 Jumbuck programmable meat thermometer, $17.15, I/N: 0281505. 74 Jumbuck BBQ fish griller, $16.66, I/N: 0281500. 75 Jumbuck ‘Rondo’ small electric charcoal spit roaster, $84.90, I/N: 3170973. 76 Pit Boss ‘850G Navigator’ pellet smoker, $799, I/N: 0172778. 77 Matador BBQ non-stick 2 piece tool kit in Black, $29.56, I/N: 3171753. 78 Tusk Living 960mm aluminium pizza paddle with timber handle, $43.58, I/N: 0280483. 79 Jumbuck ‘Stardom II’ 4 burner LCC27 barbecue, $349, I/N: 0348328. 80 Jumbuck stainless steel smoking box, $9.95, I/N: 0270561. 81 Tradeflame ‘Pro Heat’ bayonet fitting blow torch kit, $31.95, I/N: 0361871. 82 Matador stainless steel single door bar fridge, $899, I/N: 3171041. 83 Char-Griller BBQ rubs, $12.95/195g: ‘All Purpose’, I/N: 0195479, ‘Brisket & Beef’, I/N: 0195481, and ‘Ribs & Pork’, I/N: 0195482. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

LESS THAN $10

LESS THAN $15

LESS THAN $15

LESS THAN

TIME 84 Mr Clean ‘Quik & Dry’ synthetic car chamois, $6.99, I/N: 4460222. 85 Rhino Toolbox 600mm x 550mm x 400mm cargo case in Khaki, $179, I/N: 5810595. 86 Tactix 9 compartment trade quality organiser, $34.98, I/N: 2582724. 87 Pinnacle Hardware 1500mm x 810mm x 310mm 4 shelf unit, $46.03, I/N: 2760442. 88 Ryobi ‘Link’ RLORGCH compact small parts organiser, $49.98, I/N: 0455866. 89 Trojan headlight restoration kit, $14.99, I/N: 0191116. 90 Antsig car charger with quick charge, $18.46, I/N: 0286555. 91 Selleys ‘Polyglaze’ wheel cleaner, $14.99/500ml, I/N: 0443264, and tyre shine, $14.99/350g, I/N: 0443258. 92 Ozito 400 amp jump starter and power bank, $99.98, I/N: 0287564. 93 Ideal DIY Floors 2m velour car carpet in Anthracite, $46.26/m, I/N: 6628426. 94 Karcher K3 premium power control car, home and deck high pressure washer kit, $439, I/N: 0362055. 95 Stanley 1600kg trolley jack, $79.80, I/N: 0128834. 96 All Set foldable pet stairs, $24, I/N: 0439595. 97 Ozito 12V battery and alternator tester, $12.98, I/N: 0290795. 98 Morgan ‘Jumbo’ sponge, $2, I/N: 4460815. 99 Craftright 5 drawer tool trolley, $198, I/N: 0331390. 100 Full Boar 15 amp intelligent car battery charger, $186, I/N: 0233354. 101 Father’s Day gift cards and e-gift cards, from $10. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Gift the ultimate upgrade in watering this Father’s Day, just in time for summer!

Tactix bluetooth noise-isolating earbuds are perfect for listening to music while you work. They’re resistant to sweat and dust, and have up to 20 hours of battery life.

CELEBRATE DAD

For the security-conscious dad, Swann has a range of products to install around the home to alert them of any unwelcome visitors. From video doorbells to wireless cameras, Swann has the house covered.

Swann

Tactix bluetooth noise-isolating earbuds, $59, I/N: 0377986

Ozito ‘PXC’ 36V (2 x 18V) brushless steel deck lawn mower kit, $499, I/N: 0244221

Swann ‘Ultra NVR’ 4K 4 camera security system, $985, I/N: 0427080

‘AllSecure 650’ 2K wireless 3 camera pack, $799, I/N: 0401314

Swann ‘Xtreem’ wireless security camera, $197, I/N: 0336156

Swann ‘SwannBuddy’ wi-fi video doorbell, $188, I/N: 0336160

Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V compact drill and impact driver kit, $99, I/N: 0195859

Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V 2.0Ah battery and charger pack, $24.98, I/N: 0370062

Holman 20m retractable hose reel, $99, I/N: 3110524

Holman ‘BX1’ bluetooth tap timer, $59.84, I/N: 0299342

Holman ‘WXI’ tap timer with wi-fi hub, $99, I/N: 0246021

Make Father’s Day gifting easy with Trojan’s trade-quality tools. Spoil Dad this year with our DIY essentials. Tools built tough.

0191073

Bossweld

0252929

Give Dad the gift he has always wanted for his workshop this Father’s Day. Get your dad welding like a boss with Bossweld!

Bossweld

0252927

0131355

The Eveready Dolphin MK7 will light up anything Dad needs to tackle. It is tough, waterproof and it floats! Perfect for any situation, from a DIY project to a power cut or roadside breakdown, Dad can rely on light in the most demanding of environments.

Pinnacle

2090mm x 800mm x 605mm 5 drawer storage station, $1,045, I/N: 0339532

6380043

Pinnacle is your garage storage expert specialising in innovative storage solutions. Quality products and value for money are our promises!

0147743

0117634

Trojan 16oz 450g fibreglass claw hammer, $14.98, I/N:

Trojan 40 piece stubby set, $24.98, I/N: 6111061

Trojan 360mm toolbox handsaw, $9.98, I/N:

Eveready ‘Dolphin’ 235lm lantern with 6V battery, $28.98, I/N: 4410892

Pinnacle 453mm x 295mm x 170mm 11 compartment metal organiser $99, I/N:

Pinnacle 2090mm x 1820mm x 540mm heavy duty work station, $449, I/N:

‘Pro Series’

Bossweld 100A M100 gasless MIG inverter welder, $289, I/N:

‘Map-Pro’ weed burner, $48, I/N:

‘Map’ adjustable pro-torch, $87.98, I/N:

Pinnacle heavy duty 10 compartment organiser, $46, I/N: 0339519

Cold play

FROM SHOWY YELLOW TO POPS OF FUCHSIA AND PURPLE, COOL-SEASON BLOOMERS STRIKE A HAPPY NOTE

At this time of year your garden can look and feel a little ho-hum. Rather than wait for spring to bring the bling, beat the winter blues with pots of colour and plant-now species to brighten beds and borders.

The strappy leaves and bright flowers of clivia – available in yellow, orange and cream – make it a spectacular winter-flowering bloom for your patch

Photography Juliet Nicholas.

With varieties ranging from small to medium shrubs and larger trees, the late-winter flowering rhododendron is a great choice for cool-season colour

Get down low

For small and low growers, horticulturist

Angie Thomas of Yates recommends a mix of perennials and annuals.

“Winter-flowering annuals like pansies, violas and primulas are perfect for dotting around the garden,” she says. “Plant them in drifts in garden beds or mass plant in pots for splashes of seasonal colour.” A coloured mediumsized pot full of pansies is a welcoming sight by the front or back door.

When choosing perennials, the options are abundant, and not limited to florals. “Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) has year-round purple-green leaves and is a wonderful groundcover in dappled shade,” says Angie.

“Similarly, Alternanthera ‘Little Ruby’ has rich burgundy leaves that pop throughout the year.”

Two timeless winter blooms are hellebores and clivias. “They’re both tough, flower profusely and are ideal for shaded areas,” says Angie. And to get a head start on scent, early flowering lavender varieties, such as ‘Winter Lace’ and ‘Violet Lace’, provide florals and fragrance and grow best in full sun.

If you want natives, horticulturist

Bryce Hillig of Local Green Bean (@local_green_bean) has a few go-to favourites. “Pigface (Carpobrotus) and Grevillea ‘Bronze Rambler’ are attractive groundcovers, with interesting foliage and colourful flowers,” he says. They’re great for rockeries or steep embankments. Dwarf banksias, including Banksia ‘Birthday Candles’ and Banksia

‘Honey Pots’ are superb choices, too.

A mixed bed of hellebores, polyanthus and groundcovers brings stunning pops of colour to a tired winter landscape

Find middle ground

A classic cool-climate winter-flowering shrub is daphne, much loved for its waxy white-pink flowers and exquisite perfume, says Angie. “A position in dappled shade with moist well-drained soil will keep it happy.” For a daphne tolerant of warmer climes, try Daphne ‘Eternal Fragrance’.

Foliage candidates include hostas, brunneras and purple-leafed loropetalums. Hostas and brunneras have striking coloured foliage and are ideal mass planted in low-light areas. “Cordylines are also great and come in a range of colours, including purple, red and mottled patterns,” says Angie.

A standout native is Acacia cognata ‘Limelight’, with its graceful weeping lime-green foliage. It’s also available in a grafted standard form, elevating it to 1.8 metres. One plant in a rustic or modern pot is a statement piece.

For colour and fragrance, Bryce recommends the native wax flower Philotheca myoporoides. “It has dense evergreen foliage with pink or white star-shaped flowers in winter,

SHOP

adding a burst of colour and perfume to the garden,” he says. “My favourite part is crushing the leaves to release the green-apple scent.”

Hit the high notes

“Japonica camellias are winter floral stars,” says Angie. “Large varieties can grow up to four metres tall with single or double flowers in pinks, reds, cream and white.” Camellias can be grown as a hedge or as feature plantings.

For an impressive display of colour, it’s hard to go past the orange trumpet vine (Pyrostegia venusta). “This fastgrowing climber is covered with bright orange tubular flowers in winter and will easily clamber over fences, pergolas and walls in sunny spots,” says Angie.

Wattles are traditionally late-winter bloomers with golden flowers. “There are lots of species and varieties,” says Angie. “Large wattles can be used as fast-growing screen trees.” The coast banksia (Banksia integrifolia) is another gorgeous native, says Bryce. “Its large, yellow flower spikes are highly attractive to nectar-feeding birds.”

1 Orange trumpet vine plant 2 Daphne ‘Spring Pink Eternal Fragrance’ plant

3 Coast banksia plant. 4 Tuscan Path 370mm half barrel wooden planter, $35.98, I/N: 2890296. 5 Acacia ‘Limelight’ plant. 6 Banksia ‘Birthday Candles’ plant 7 Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 54cm egg pot in White, $133.10, I/N: 0252490.

8 Northcote Pottery 54cm studded pot in Green, $114.40, I/N: 2860804.

9 Lavender ‘Winter Lace’ plant. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Primula japonica is ideal for dotting throughout flower beds: it comes in a variety of colours to suit different styles of garden, has attractive foliage and grows to about 45cm tall

“Winter annuals are an easy way to fill in bare spots throughout a garden. These annuals can be replaced in spring, giving you a whole new look and colour scheme”

Angie Thomas, horticulturist

Photography Juliet Nicholas; (opposite) Getty Images.

COME INSIDE

Don’t let the garden have all the fun. Here are some wonderful plants that are set to take your interiors from blah to beautiful.

Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis spp)

The flowers range from large to miniature-sized and are available in various colours. Position in a warm, brightly lit spot out of direct sunlight and water as required. It will provide months of colour to enjoy indoors.

African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)

Has velvety deep-green leaves and blooms in shades of pink, purple, red, yellow and white. Flowers may be single or bi-coloured and appear throughout the year. Keep in bright filtered light and liquid feed regularly.

Flamingo flower (Anthurium andreanum)

An easy-care indoor plant with heart-shaped glossy-green leaves and deep burgundy, pink or red flowers. The blooms appear at various times throughout the year and last for weeks. Prefers a bright spot and water when the potting mix is nearly dry.

Nerve plant (Fittonia verschaffeltii)

What the leaves lack in size, they make up for with intriguing shapes and colours. Foliage can be green, pink or red and patterned with distinct lacy venations, typically in contrasting colours. Position nerve plants in medium-to-bright light and water when the soil is nearly dry.

Calathea (Calathea and Goeppertia spp)

Calathea’s strikingly beautiful leaves may be variegated or patterned with brushstrokes, splashes, splotches and dots. Medium-to-bright light is best, and some species require humid conditions.

Moth orchid

Calathea

Nerve plant

Flamingo flower

African violet

Grow your style

Use potted plants to make an interior design statement, with Northcote Pottery

Your home’s interior style says a lot about you – and your choice of pots and plants is a great way to express yourself. From a monochrome palette to a jungle of palms in vintageinspired planters, container gardening can offer fabulous value for money.

Here, horticulturist and Northcote

Pottery ambassador Melissa King shows how Northcote Pottery can help you to refresh your interiors with stylish and on-trend pots that are also practical, affordable and durable.

SHADES OF WHITE

The visual equivalent of a calm breath, white is a timeless colour palette. Use it in a neutral room, or select accents from Northcote Pottery’s White Collection which will enhance the natural beauty of your plants. Add subtle interest by choosing similar shades with textured finishes, and pair them with plants with striking foliage shapes, or variegated varieties with more than one colour.

LEFT (top shelf, from left): ‘Paloma’ 17cm x 17cm egg pot in Cream, $12.50, I/N: 0430326, ‘Carter’ 17cm pot in White, $15.89, I/N: 0263169, ‘Wyatt’ 17cm pot in White, $15.89, I/N: 0263170. (Middle shelf): ‘Granada’ 15cm x 15cm indoor glazed pot in White, $28.14, I/N: 0180247. (Bottom shelf): ‘Brodie’ 17cm x 16cm pot in White, $17.98, I/N: 0430408.

LITTLE BLACK POTS

Just as the little black dress is an enduring fashion staple, black pots are an elegant choice that never goes out of style, for example Northcote Pottery’s Lex pedestal pot with its unique softtouch finish. Use black pots as a home for eye-catching plants – a dark pot makes striking foliage the star. “Add pops of colour by using plants with pink foliage,” suggests Melissa. “These are currently trending and readily available.”

RIGHT (from left): ‘Toby’ 17cm pot in Black, $14.50, I/N: 0430367, ‘Wyatt’ 17cm pot in Black, $15.89, I/N: 0263164, ‘Carter’ 17cm pot in Black, $15.89, I/N: 0263163, ‘Lex’ 24cm x 20cm pot in Black, $30, I/N: 0430380, ‘Isla’ 17cm pot, $12.50, I/N: 0430335.

(Top

ENDLESS SUMMER

A coastal interior gives the relaxed vibes of a summer vacay all year round, and strategically chosen pots can work beautifully to convey that sun-and-surf mood. Go for shades of nautical navy contrasted with matt white – and plant up with trailing succulents that will tumble from high shelves. Keep the look light and don’t overcrowd the space with plants. Melissa suggests sticking to the rule of three and grouping Northcote Pottery’s Odessa, Lionel and Melody pots in asymmetrical positions for an eye-catching display.

RECONNECT WITH NATURE

Biophilia is the practice of bringing the living environment inside and, as a look that makes us feel calm and connected to nature, it’s a trend that’s set to stay. To capture this look, use pots such as Northcote Pottery’s collections in natural tones or textured finishes that replicate real stone. With this palette, you can mix and match pots in varied colours, patterns and textures to create an eclectic, organic display.

LEFT (from left): ‘Virgo’ 18cm pot in Cloud, $20.79, I/N: 0263149, ‘Laredo’ 10cm x 8cm mini pot in White Wash, $4.50, I/N: 0430364, ‘Odessa’ 16cm x 15cm pot in White Wash, $14, I/N: 0430315, ‘Omega’ 16cm pot in Forest, $22.03, I/N: 0263147, ‘Virgo’ 18cm pot in Forest, $20.79, I/N: 0263152.

ROOM TO GROW

Northcote Pottery’s Paloma Egg Pots come in various sizes, making it easy for you to upgrade your growing plant to the next pot size, or to welcome larger indoor plants into your space. Their clean and chic design perfectly elevates the look of your greenery.

I/N: 0430430, ‘Carter’ 17cm x 17cm pot in Brick, $15.98, I/N: 0430426, ‘Wyatt’ 17cm x 17cm pot in Brick, $15.98, I/N: 0430323.

LEFT (from left): ‘Paloma Egg’ pots in Cream: 17cm x 17cm, $12.50, I/N: 0430326, 14cm x 14cm, $10, I/N: 0430325, 20cm x 20cm, $19, I/N: 0430399, 25cm x 23cm, $29, I/N: 0430417, and 36cm x 32cm, $69, I/N: 0430373.

BLUSH AND BRICK

Soft and subtle pink is a new neutral – pair it with a warm shade of brick for a nostalgic palette that evokes the retro past. Combining Northcote Pottery’s blush-coloured pots creates a look that is warm, feminine and playful, and easy to work into any style of interior. Double down on the nostalgic vibe by planting favourites from yesteryear, suggests Melissa. “Use lush ferns you might remember from your childhood,” she says.

northcotepottery.com

@Northcote Pottery

@northcotepottery

Scan the QR code to see the range of Northcote Pottery pots available at Bunnings.

shelf): ‘Odessa’ 20cm x 20cm pot in White Wash, $39.50, I/N: 0430396. (Bottom shelf, from left): ‘Lionel’ 18cm x 17cm pot in Blue, $19.98, I/N: 0430342, and ‘Melody’ 18cm x 17cm pot in Blue, $19.98, I/N: 0430320.

ABOVE (from left): ‘Paloma’ 17cm x 17cm pot in Blush, $12.50,

Call to order

TURN A SHED INTO A HIGH-FUNCTIONING ASSET WITH SAVVY STORAGE INCLUSIONS

Words JANE PARBURY Photography ALEX REINDERS Styling ANNA MUSARRA

Who doesn’t love a backyard shed? It’s not only the perfect place to store garden equipment and tools, but it can also be an overflow zone for seasonal items, outdoor toys and the like, freeing up space inside your home. When selecting a shed, pick one to suit your available space, and for what you need to store. Ensure it’s constructed and anchored according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then follow these tips to kit it out and maximise your storage options.

styled our shed with a vertical garden, assembled in an upcycled pallet painted to match in charcoal

Find a top spot

Placement is important, says stylist Tilly Roberts (@tillroberts). “Consider putting the shed towards the back of the garden, ideally in a corner,” she says. “And choose one in a similar colour to your fence or surrounds so it blends in.” Dark shades like grey and black are a great foil for greenery, which can help signal the shed’s purpose and place in the garden. And if you’re short on space for a garden, consider vertical planting systems outside the shed – DIY or otherwise. Some raised planters also come with a shelf for bonus storage.

Absco Sheds ‘Space Saver’ 3m x 1.52m x 2.08m double door shed in Monument, $593, I/N: 0079542. (Inside shed, from left) Pinnacle Hardware 1830mm x 1200mm x 540mm 5 tier adjustable shelving unit in Gloss Black, $145.20, I/N: 2581012; 1350mm x 900mm x 540mm timber top workbench, $358, I/N: 0038058, 900mm x 450mm metal pegboards, $43 each, I/N: 0038055, and 810mm x 520mm x 500mm 4 drawer mobile storage unit, $379, I/N: 0038059, all in Matt Black. Ultimate Flooring 6000mm x 1200mm x 3mm multi purpose rubber mat, $152, I/N: 4490365. Bayliss ‘TQC 3’ 75cm x 45cm plain outdoor mat in Natural, $30.58, I/N: 4494590. Holman ‘GreenWall Pixel Pot’ vertical garden, $65, I/N: 2941494 (plants not included). Bailey 3 step 120kg load twin platform step stool, $119, I/N: 0861104. ABOVE RIGHT Pinnacle Hardware 950mm x 800mm x 350mm raised mobile garden planter in Charcoal, $74.16, I/N 3321764 (plants not included).

Mechanix Wear ‘Rigger’ classic leather landscape gloves, $26.89/medium, I/N: 0270067. Holman 9L galvanised watering can, $23.95, I/N: 3120984. Northcote Pottery ‘Carpi’ 21cm x 18cm terracotta egg pot, $13.98, I/N: 0356439, and ‘Italian Collection’ 17cm saucer in Terracotta, $2.64, I/N: 2863494. Saxon timber handle tools, $4.15 each: hand trowel, I/N: 0242973, and cultivator, I/N: 0242960. Tuscan

10mm-30mm

I/N: 0177519. See following pages for more product details. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Path

polished slate chips in Grey, $22.99/10kg,

We

Think vertically and make the most of any available wall space. It makes items more visible and easily accessible

ABOVE & RIGHT Absco shed, Pinnacle Hardware workbench, pegboards and storage unit, as before. Pinnacle Hardware single prong pegboard hooks in Gloss Black, $16.90/pack of 20 small, I/N: 0135521. (On rear pegboard, from top left) Craftright 600mm and 300mm stainless steel rulers, $4.48/pack of 2,

I/N: 5660462, 4 piece adjustable wrench set, $28.98, I/N: 6117702, clear safety glasses, $2.30, I/N: 0401338, ear muffs, $10, I/N: 0401332, (on workbench) assorted nylon spring clamps, $19.99/pack of 16,

I/N: 5860093, 385mm powdercoated metal tool box in Red, $14.90, I/N: 5820734, and (hanging up) 11 pocket leather nail and tool belt, $15.50, I/N: 5820550. Monarch heavy duty caulking gun, $9.95, I/N: 1661920. Empire 12 inch aluminium rafter square, $29.98, I/N: 0034494. Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V cordless blower kit, $99, I/N: 3381084, and (on floor) 1800W 2030PSI high pressure washer, $119, I/N: 0254158. Trojan general purpose scissors, $8.98/pack of 2, I/N: 0191107, 3 piece plier set, $29.98, I/N: 0126943, 16oz/450g timber/rubber mallet, $10.98, I/N: 0131367, and (on side pegboard) straight blade hedge shears, $32.10, I/N: 0242142. Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V home essentials kit, $179, I/N: 0327892 (also in drawer). Bear 48mm interior decorator masking tape, $9.53/50m, I/N: 0144254, 50mm cloth tape in Black, $11.84/25m, I/N: 1661568, (in drawer) 48mm PVC duct tape in Silver, $8.03/30m, I/N: 1661580, and 36mm double sided tape in White, $9.53/4.5m, I/N: 1661629. Sabco coco fibre banister brush, $10.62, I/N: 4461200. UNi-PRO 3 piece paintbrush set, $4.95, I/N: 1661064. (On workbench) Irwin pencil sharpener, $6.48, I/N: 0303417. Empire medium individual carpenter pencils, $1.99 each, I/N: 0125023, and liquid paint markers in White, $4.98 each, I/N: 0163237. Garden gloves, $3.24/large, I/N: 0256797. Holman 1.8L galvanised watering can, $14.90, I/N: 3110893. (On side pegboard, from left) Cyclone stainless steel hand tools, $11.50 each: fork, I/N: 3360486, bulb trowel, I/N: 3361000, weeder, I/N: 3360999, and garden trowel, I/N: 3360998. Taskmaster 100mm x 30mm x 5mm S hooks, $3.20/pack of 4, in Black, I/N: 0212438, and Silver, I/N: 0127471. (On floor) Ultimate Flooring rubber mat, as before. AdVenture Products 20L heavy duty jerry can with bung in Army Green, $31.47, I/N: 3240536, and 5L fuel can and pourer, $12.99, I/N: 3400258. Bata knee length gumboots, $33.95/size 9, I/N: 3368152. All other products, stylist’s own.

Cyclone 16T landscape rake with timber handle, $43.95, I/N: 0203430, and long handle plumber’s shovel, $51.90, I/N: 3369051. Oates supreme garden broom, $15.98, I/N: 4484424

Zenith countersunk rib head galvanised timber screws, $34.15/pack of 500, I/N: 2420877

Use

Group like with like

Corralling similar items together is the usual practice when organising your storage. But it’s also handy to have an easily accessible area for frequently used items such as a hammer, garden shears or drill, says Tilly Roberts. “Wall-mounted tool boards are great.” Pop in a workbench for projects like potting up seedlings; it also gives you another area to keep small or frequently used items to hand.

Use every bit

Utilising hooks in a garden shed is a good space-saver, keeping the floor free for heavier items such as lawn

mowers, says Sean Musu of Pinnacle Hardware. Ideal for storing tall items like brooms or rakes, wall hooks can often be squeezed into under-utilised areas, or fixed to the back of the door.

Pack it in

Drawers typically hold more items than cabinets, plus their contents are easy to see and access. Pick a unit with drawers of varying heights for different-sized items, and consider adding a drawer insert for small things like screws. A lockable cabinet is essential. “Apart from obviously keeping items safe and secure from theft, another important feature is

keeping dangerous items out of reach of children, whether that be chemicals, power tools or sharp objects,” says Sean.

Think tall

A sturdy shelf unit stocked with containers is perfect for packing in lots of storage. Always put heavy items on lower shelves, and pick box sizes and types according to what you want to store, like lidded plastic tubs for seasonal items or those that need some protection from dust or damp. Clear plastic boxes and wire baskets let you see their contents at a glance, as do timber crates, which also have an appealing organic look. Think outside the box, too, such as adding a dustbin for storing sports balls.

Keep it all safe

Tools are valuable, so make sure your shed can be secured when not in use; an imposing lock could be enough to deter an opportunistic thief. For extra toughness, select a padlock with a boron-carbide shackle – it’s 50 per cent harder than hardened steel.

ABOVE LEFT Pinnacle Hardware shelving unit, pegboards and hooks, as before, 75L galvanised bin, $65.19, I/N: 4520090, and 270mm x 250mm 9L galvanised bucket, $26.79, I/N: 4460182. (On shelves, from top left) Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ wire insert in White, $17.60, I/N: 0289738. Wood storage crate, $22.59/large, I/N: 0214210.

Montgomery 10L modular storage containers with lids in Clear, $4.54 each, I/N: 0219778, and heavy duty storage containers with clip lids in Grey and Green: 60L, $14.53, I/N: 0127215, and 80L, $18.99 each, I/N: 0201356. All Set 50L modular storage container with lid in Clear, $6.95, I/N: 0219783. Tactix 25L collapsible crate in Black, $12.38, I/N: 2583340. Craftright nail and tool belt, as before. Sports equipment and accessories not included. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

“If you don’t want to screw into your walls, try a storage solution with a freestanding bracket system, like Pinnacle’s Pro Series”

Sean Musu, Pinnacle Hardware

a variety of tubs and crates to store different items – keeping the equipment you use the most towards the front

PRO TIP

IF THE FRONT OF YOUR FENCE FACES THE YARD, SKIP STEPS 2 AND 3 TO INSTALL THE SCREENING DIRECTLY ONTO THE PALINGS

Before

The sagging fence on this property meant you could see right into the next-door neighbour’s backyard. And the timber palings had most definitely seen better days. The solution? A roll of PVC screening. It creates a seamless sightline while also hiding an old fence or wall, and the charcoal colour is the perfect backdrop to make plants pop. This is a no-sweat DIY project that’s a great solution for renters – just get permission to staple the PVC onto the fence before you begin.

SCREEN STAR

N A TASHA DICKINS

A GAPPY OLD FENCE GETS A SPEEDY FACELIFT, TO BRING PRIVACY AND A CONTEMPORARY EDGE TO THIS YARD Project, photography and styling NATASHA DICKINS

RIGHT Eden 3m x 1.8m PVC garden screening with capping in Charcoal, $118.65, I/N: 0155089. Mimosa ‘Malibu’ one-seater lounge, $299, I/N: 0177346. Economy 3m x 1m x 18mm synthetic grass turf mat, $38.90, I/N: 0083424. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Tools & materials

nSafety equipment (gardening gloves, mask, ear and eye protection)

n Tape measure and pen

n Stringline

n Line level

n Secateurs

n Mitre saw

n Mini roller with tray

n Quick-grip clamps

nDrill with 8G combination countersinking bit

nCrown stapler with 16mm narrow galvanised staples

nLengths of 66mm x 18mm H3 treated pine (3m per screen)•

nExterior paint in charcoal

n3000mm x 1800mm PVC garden screening with capping

n8G x 40mm galvanised screws

n2400mm-long timber offcut and spacers

1 Measure 1800mm up from the highest ground point to run a stringline above the fence, using a line level to check it’s straight. Clear along the line with secateurs to ensure the screen is unimpeded by foliage. Tip: The screens are 1800mm high and 3000mm long, so set out the area in 3m increments.

Keep in mind...

n Wear eye protection when using a stapler, as well as ear protection and a mask when drilling treated pine. n Use H3 treated pine for aboveground outdoor applications to resist moisture and termite damage. Use exterior paint to seal the cuts, and install with galvanised fasteners to resist rust.

4 Set out a temporary base using a timber offcut at least 2400mm long, adding spacers to ensure it’s straight, checking with a level. Clamp the open end of the screen onto the support rails, then unroll it along the base to about halfway, clamping the roll lightly at the top to prevent it from falling.

2 Measure the spans between the posts to determine support rail lengths. Check the joins are centred over posts, then use a mitre saw to cut H3 treated pine to fit. Apply two coats of exterior paint using a mini roller, leaving to dry after each coat. Position support rails against posts on clamps about 600mm down from the stringline and up from the ground.

3 Position an unrolled screen against the first post to check the rows of cord run along the centre of the support rails, adjusting the clamps and the rails as needed. Use a countersinking bit to predrill through the rails into the posts, securing each joint with two 40mm galvanised screws.

H3

,

I/N: 0020932• . 5 Ryobi

18V

stapler, $229/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0385371.

5 Secure cords with a crown stapler, holding it sideways to staple vertically. Begin inside first strip and work in sections along top and base support rails, stapling every six strips, and inside the last one. Move the temporary base to span remaining section of screening, checking with a level; unroll and clamp to continue stapling. Repeat to install next screen.

6 Two lengths of capping and a small filler piece are supplied with each screen. Thread the capping by enlisting a second pair of hands to push it from the end of the screen while you pull it along the strips, checking that it doesn’t slip upwards. Thread the remaining capping from the opposite end, adding the filler piece to span screen joins.

Give

1 PowerFit ‘6000 Series’ 16mm narrow crown electro-galvanised staples, $13.42/pack of 2000, I/N: 6210708. 2 Walpamur fence finish in Charcoal, $43.90/4L, I/N: 0018736. 3 Empire 75mm aluminium line level, $9.37, I/N: 0034495. 4 Hume Doors & Timber 66mm x 18mm E4E LOSP

primed pine moulding

$17.30/2.7m,

‘ONE+’

18GA narrow crown

Use

and safely

tough stains. Safely remove tough stains such as grease, tar, paint, ink, crayon, oils, make-up, food, baby formula, blood, grass, gum, coffee, lipstick, and more!

PRESS REFRESH

MAINTAIN AND GAIN WITH THIS PRE-SPRING OUTDOOR TASK LIST

Words CAROLINE BOTTING

Aclean and sound property exterior does wonders for its kerb appeal and value. Regular upkeep also protects the structure of the home, while safeguarding those within. Here are six jobs to include on your pre-spring maintenance to-do list.

Pamper paths and drives

Winter is a prime time for weeds to spring up in cracks. Leaving them can result in bigger issues, such as potholes, caused by soil eroding underneath once water seeps in. Get rid of weeds by hand or with a suitable weedkiller, use a pressure washer to remove mould and moss and, if you’re handy, repair any cracks – or hire a pro for the job.

Hit the decks

Damp, dirt and leaves take their toll on outdoor surfaces during the colder months, often leaving decks slippery and in need of repair. To bring them back to their best, replace damaged boards and upgrade loose fasteners. Sweep thoroughly, scrub with a deck cleaner, rinse, then apply a stain or oil (recommended annually).

To clean stone patios, give the area a good scrub with a pH-neutral soap, then rinse with water.

Step to it

Giving outdoor steps a once-over will improve their appearance and, more importantly, ensure they’re safe to use. In 2020-21, more than 16,000 people in Australia were hospitalised falling from steps or stairs*. Metal and concrete

Brush your decking with a soft broom to remove any dirt or leaves before an annual scrub, then stain or oil application

A powerful jet of water is an effective way to clean grubby decks, pavers and paths – adjust the pressure or nozzle to suit the surface and avoid damage

stairs can be pressure-washed to remove dirt and debris, while timber requires the same maintenance as decking (see previous page). Don’t ignore creaking or cracking treads or balusters – cracks lead to rot, and therefore safety risks.

Get to the guts

Avoid expensive repairs and play it safe by cleaning gutters. Clogged or sagging gutters can cause issues to a home’s structural integrity, rot to fascia boards, seepage into your roof area and a fire hazard (gutter debris is a key source of fuel for ember fires). Choose

For safety, choose a ladder with non-slip feet and maintain three points of contact (such as one hand and both feet) at all times

Turn off security cameras, outdoor heating or lights before wiping them down with a damp lint-free cloth

wired in, turn off light switches and circuit breakers. Replace blown globes, and wipe down lenses and light exteriors. Remove encroaching plant growth and ensure that cables are covered and secured. Remember only lights with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating are suitable for outdoor use. This determines how well they withstand moisture, dust and solid objects that may hit them.

a dry, sunny day to don gloves and set up a secure ladder to empty gutters of dirt and debris. To make the job easier – or even avoidable – install gutter guards.

Shine bright

Whether they’re in the garden, entertainment area or at the front door, outdoor lights need to be maintained biannually (spring and autumn). Insects, dust and dirt can all play havoc with electrics and luminosity. Exposed wires are dangerous and must be fixed by a licensed electrician. If lights are

Stay safe and secure

Keen to avoid capturing close-ups of spiders, or other creepy crawlies on your home security cameras? Then a regular clean is key. First unplug or switch off any wired equipment. Avoid cleaning security equipment with a broom or brush, as this can scratch lenses or dislodge fixtures. Instead, use a secure ladder and wipe down the exterior of cameras and sensors with a damp microfibre cloth (don’t use cleaners that can compromise the lens surface). Check cables and connections – if frayed or cracked, get a licensed electrician to replace.

not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

1 Gerni ‘3300’ 1810PSI 1500W high pressure washer, $169, I/N: 0235514. 2 GumLeaf DIY aluminium gutter guard pack, $36/5m, I/N: 0423972. 3 Saxon gutter scoop, $4.15, I/N: 0241578. 4 Jack ‘Gutterguard’ 90mm plastic downpipe covers, $7.20/pack of 2, I/N: 0056599. 5 Deta PIR security sensor in White, $33.35, I/N: 4371509 (globe sold separately). 6 Orion 1080p HD smart outdoor security camera with rechargeable battery and Grid Connect in White, $99, I/N: 0333166. 7 Vileda ‘Colours’ microfibre cloths, $12.89/pack of 8, I/N: 0065913. 8 Trojan utility gloves, $12.25/large, I/N: 0282908. Some products are

Photography (top left) Getty Images.

Spring into action

All your home’s spring cleaning needs will be sorted inside and out with Oates’ wide range of products available at Bunnings

Use the regular mop refill for everyday cleaning, or the scrub refill for tougher messes

CLEAN FLOORS WITH EASE

Oates Ezy Spray Mop with bonus scrub refill

nLightweight and easy-touse with no bucket required.

n Simply fill up the bottle and use the trigger to control how much water you use.

n Ideal for hard-sealed floors.

Oates ‘Ezy Spray’ mop with bonus scrub refill, $29.99, I/N: 0379446

SPECIALTY CLEANERS FOR YOUR HOME

Oates Indoor Cobweb Broom

n 1.4m extension handle and five-position swivel head for hard-to-reach places.

n Contoured shape removes dust, dirt and cobwebs from cornices and vents.

n Soft flagged bristles trap dirt.

Oates 1.4m indoor swivel domed cobweb broom, $15.99, I/N: 0095306

MUST-HAVES AT HOME

Oates Freestanding Dustpan Set has a large pan with rubber edging, helping to attract and trap dirt and dust. Its brush features an in-built rubber blade for optimal cleaning. Oates Brush Cleaning Trackbuster cleans door tracks, windows, corners and crevices. Oates 500ml Spray Bottle offers a quick, effective and comfortable clean with its cushion grip.

1 Oates freestanding dustpan set, $15.99, I/N: 4460391. 2 Oates brush cleaning trackbuster, $6.49, I/N: 4480648. 3 Oates 500ml spray trigger bottle, $9.99/500ml, I/N: 0123223.

Oates Long Handle Deck Scrub Brush

n Short, stiff bristles remove dirt and particles from outdoor surfaces including decking, concrete and patios.

n Built-in scraper for stubborn build-ups.

n Robust powder-coated handle.

Oates Long Handle Grout Brush

n Stiff, durable chiselled bristles thoroughly clean grout.

n Swivel head provides easy manoeuvrability.

n Long handle makes it easy to clean indoor and outdoor surfaces without bending or kneeling.

Oates 450mm Wide Sweep Indoor Broom

n Extra-large head for a thorough sweep.

n Dense bristles effectively trap dirt, dust and other fine particles.

Oates 450mm wide sweep indoor broom, $34.29, I/N: 4482155

Oates long handle deck scrub brush, $15.49, I/N: 4460246

Oates long handle grout brush, $11.79, I/N: 4480730

LAUGH AT THE MESS WITH OATES

Offering a range of high-quality, durable and easy-to-use products, Oates takes the fuss out of cleaning, so you can get back to enjoying life quick smart!

Scan to learn more about the range of Oates cleaning products at Bunnings.

Green cleaning

Care for the environment and your home at the same time with brand-new products from Simple Green

Winter is hard on the exterior of your home, but your cleaning products don’t need to be. Simple Green’s brand-new range of outdoor cleaners aims to care for the health of your family and pets while building a greener tomorrow.

GREEN BY NATURE

You can wage war on grime yet protect your budding spring garden. Simple Green products are non-toxic and environmentally safe, so they won’t impact your garden and lawn. Made in New Zealand, even Simple Green bottles and labels are 100 per cent recyclable.

EASY PEASY

Simple Green products are easy to use and simply work well. The new outdoor range has a clip-and-go attachment that connects to most garden hoses. There’s no need to premix the product into other spray bottles – a two-litre bottle makes up to 40 litres, with the container controlling the dilution ratio. The range includes adjustable spray settings to reach hard-to-access areas.

TOP-TO-BOTTOM CLEAN

The brand-new Simple Green range features a cleaning product for every outdoor surface. Reach for Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner for all the outside areas of your home, such as grubby furniture and slippery paths. Say goodbye to stubborn dirt and unsightly moss and mould build-up with its powerful formula that deep cleans while actively inhibiting moss and mould regrowth. Maximise the spring sunshine in your home with Simple Green Exterior Window Cleaner. The job no-one loves is so much easier with a high-reach sprayer control, so you can wet, wash and rinse for a streak-free finish on exterior glass with minimal effort. Finally Simple Green House Wash targets the tough stains that build up on your home over winter: mould, mildew, dirt, soot and more. Just spray it all away, leaving you with a fresh facade.

Easily connects to your hose for a fast and simple set-up

Four convenient spray settings suit every task at hand

1 Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner, $34.49/2L, I/N: 0400846

2 Simple Green Exterior Window Cleaner, $34.49/2L, I/N: 0400849

3 Simple Green House Wash, $34.49/2L, I/N: 0400848

Adjustable spray settings help you reach those hard-to-access areas

S crub up

SET A NEW CLEANING STANDARD WITH THESE HANDY HYGIENE HACKS FOR FORGOTTEN SPACES

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

You may be no slouch in the housework department, with a weekly roster that is actually followed. But in every home there are hidden corners that quietly gather dust, dirt and worse. Give these out-of-sight or hard-to-reach areas an annual clean and start the spring season with a home that’s fresh from top to toe.

Grimy glass

Washing windows is an oft-avoided chore, but there are worse glass surfaces in the home. The shower screen can easily get out of control, with mineral deposits forming an almost impenetrable film. An abrasive cleaning product, such as Simple Green shower glass restorer, can bring it back to new, 

Dust and grease trap

says Jason Walsh of Simple Green. “This product is used to remove soap and water mark stains on shower screen glass, which is a big issue for a lot of households,” he says. “But when used with a dry cloth it can also clean baked-on oven grease and fat from glass oven doors.” It’s suitable for woodburner heater glass doors, too.

Cr usty cabinets

The kitchen might look pristine, but the tops of the cabinets can tell a different tale. If there’s a gap between the

Mould woes

High humidity and rain mean mould may be hiding where you’d least expect it. As well as in wet rooms, mould might be blooming behind mirrors or furniture, under mattresses or in cupboards – anywhere there’s minimal air flow. If you discover mould, never try to dry brush it, as this releases spores into the air and can make the problem worse. Instead, try using white vinegar and a microfibre cloth. Or if vinegar won’t cut it, try a mould-killing cleaner, ensuring you follow the directions carefully and air out the room thoroughly.

Fuzz y fans

If you’ve never looked at the top of your fan blades, you’re in for a shock –they’re likely sporting a fur coat of dust. If they’re particularly fluffy, try this neat trick to avoid a shower of dust: spray the inside of a retired pillowcase with a mild cleaning solution, pop the case over a fan blade and gently wipe it clean, keeping the dust and dirt inside. Maintain your fan’s dust-free status with an electrostatic duster. Michael Palm at cleaning product supplier Oates says this avoids spreading dust around the home and into other areas. “Its electrostatic properties attract and trap dirt for a thorough clean,” he explains.

Gr ubby walls

cabinets and the ceiling, it doesn’t take long for this space to develop a coating of dust and cooking grease. For a job like this, you need a serious product, like Simple Green all-purpose cleaner concentrate. “This product can be custom diluted using water for anything from heavy duty to light cleaning around the home,” says Jason. Use a little more of the concentrate for kitchen grease and dust and for any other seriously grimy spots, and dilute it further for ordinary, everyday cleaning tasks.

Dust and fly spots multiply on walls and ceilings and make even the tidiest home look dirty. Microfibre cloths are fantastic for cleaning walls with just water – whenever you’ve got a spare 10 minutes for cleaning, dampen a microfibre cloth and spot-clean marks, concentrating on door frames and corners where fingerprints gather. And to clean a whole wall or ceiling in no time at all, here’s an invaluable hack: use a microfibre flat mop!

Musty mattresses

You spend a third of your life on your mattress, so you want it to be free of nasties like dirt, dust mites and dead skin. Give your mattress the TLC it deserves by stripping the bed and vacuuming thoroughly. Sprinkle over a layer of bicarbonate of soda, 

Dishwashers need cleaning, too!* Put a glass measuring cup with two cups of distilled white vinegar on the top rack and run a normal cycle without detergent or dishes

Photography Cath Muscat. *First check your dishwasher manufacturer’s appliance manual for cleaning advice.

which absorbs moisture and odours, leave it for a few hours, then vacuum again. If there are stains that need attention, tread lightly – using a clean cloth, blot with a gentle detergent and cold water, then allow the mattress to dry completely.

Germs at work

With all the time we spend at our desks, tapping away at the keyboard, it’s no wonder the work station is one of the germiest places in the home. Give your desktop devices a deep clean regularly. Power down your computer and gently shake crumbs and dust off the keyboard – a can of compressed air can help clear in between the keys. Isopropyl alcohol is safe to use on electronic devices, as it has a high evaporation rate – spray on lightly, then wipe clean for a sanitised surface.

Pet problems

If you have pets, you’ve likely got hair. While you might regularly brush off the sofa, there could be a build-up of fur elsewhere too – where the dog rubs

against the back of an armchair, your cat’s secret sunbathing windowseat, or in the crevices of the car upholstery. Michael Palm suggests the Oates electrostatic pet hair brush to take care of the problem with one swipe. “The electrostatic properties in the rubber bristles collect and gather pet hair from all your surfaces including upholstery, car interiors and clothing,” he says. “And the reusable brush has a unique shaped head so it can fit into tight spots with ease.”

Scan the QR code

Want to maintain your sparkling home? Try this efficient schedule: bunnings.com.au/cleaning-routine

Read it!

Fast acting

1 Oates soft grip electrostatic duster, $5.37, I/N: 4460392. 2 Vileda ‘Colours’ microfibre cloths, $12.89/pack of 8, I/N: 0065913. 3 Oates electrostatic pet hair brush, $5.50, I/N: 4480627. 4 Simple Green all-purpose cleaner concentrate, $11.49/1L, I/N: 4470509. 5 Diggers isopropyl cleaning alcohol, $9.20/125ml, I/N: 1564443‡. 6 Simple Green shower glass restorer, $17.19/600g, I/N: 0176247. 7 Selleys ‘Rapid’ mould killer, $8.39/750ml, I/N: 0059099. 8 WD-40 specialist dust free air duster, $21.99/350g, I/N: 0241477. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Most pillows can be cleaned in the washing machine. Spin twice, airor tumble-dry, and shake to fluff

Photography Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts. ‡Not all products are available in all stores. Follow product packaging instructions for accurate dilution of strong cleaning solutions. Wear a mask and gloves for serious cleaning tasks. Store products out of reach of children and pets.

A clean sweep

Sort out all your deep-cleaning needs with Britex

With many of us spending more time at home, heavy-use areas of the house are likely to be copping a beating. While a regular once-over with a vacuum and mop is necessary, so is a deep clean to really take care of tracked-in dirt, stains and grime. Don’t call in expensive professionals to tackle the job – Britex has a range of cost-effective and easy-to-use deep-cleaning solutions to help, along with products to take care of small but mighty spills and stains.

HIDDEN GRIME

Sometimes stains and ground-in dirt need a bit more muscle. Portable, affordable, light and super easy to use, the Britex Carpet, Grout and Tile Deep Cleaner is a wonderful all-rounder and is available for hire for 24 or 48 hours ‡. It comes with the Britex Carpet Wand and, for an extra charge, the Britex Grout & Tile Wand, which uses the power of hot-water extraction with cleaning solutions to draw out all the dirt and grime that’s found a home in your tiles and carpets.

NASTY STAINS

The Britex Carpet & Upholstery Wipes have a special formulation to quickly and easily remove stains and spills on carpet, rugs and upholstery. They’re a convenient solution for food and drink stains, dirt and grease marks. If your furry friend has had an indoor accident on the new rug, the Britex Urine Remover draws moisture and urine stains up and away. Little hands left spaghetti marks on the sofa? A quick spray with Britex Spot ’n’ Stain Remover will take care of the job.

Britex Deep Cleaning Carpet Cleaner is the heavy-hitting product that you can trust to clean and revitalise the carpets. It also features a Spot Guard® stain repellent to protect your carpets even after they’ve been cleaned! Use the deep cleaner to refresh and revitalise your upholstery, too. Simply attach the Britex DIY deep cleaner and upholstery wand and use the Britex Low-Foaming Upholstery Cleaner to make light work of cleaning lounge suites, dining chairs, car seats and even caravan interiors.

1 Britex low foaming upholstery cleaner, $13.95/500ml, I/N: 0293190. 2 Britex concentrated carpet cleaner, $17.95/500ml, I/N: 0293185.

3 Britex carpet, grout and tile deep cleaner for hire: $48.60/24 hours, I/N: 0086846‡, and $57/48 hours, I/N: 0086847‡

Hire a Britex deep-cleaning machine for a weekend to refresh upholstery, carpets, tiles and even the car seats!

1 Britex ‘Spot ’n’ Stain’, $8.95/500ml, I/N: 4500003. 2 Britex ‘Urine Remover’, $14.95/500ml, I/N: 4500005. 3 Britex ‘Carpet & Upholstery Wipes’, $6.90/pack of 20, I/N: 0405154.

BLUE BELLE

This lass likes nothing better than a day at the beach followed by a nap

1 I live in… Western Australia.

2 I have a habit of… Bringing my favourite log inside and getting bark all over the floor.

3 My best trick is… Getting away with everything.

4 I sleep better when… I’m taking up my parents’ whole bed.

5 My favourite day involves… A trip to my favourite cafe for a snack and a walk on the beach.

6 My favourite celebrity is… Bluey, of course!

7 I run in circles when… I get to play with my ball.

8 My favourite activity is… Frolicking in the ocean and digging for buried treasure.

9 My best friends are… My pawrents, Ashlee and Shaun.

10 I show love by… Snuggling on the couch and giving kisses.

Social charmer

The Indian ring-necked parakeet is a talkative bird and can quickly become a beloved companion and family member with the right attention, handling and love. If you’re up for challenging your own intelligence and have the time for training and play, a ring-necked parakeet could be your perfect pairing. Plus, they’re extra charming!

SOMETHING FISHY

Watching fish swim relaxes the mind, so if you’d like to add aquatic good vibes to your home, follow these tips. Daryl Maddock of the Aquarium Society of Victoria says for any set-up you need a tank, gravel for the substrate, an aerating pump and food. If you are going to keep tropical fish, you’ll also need a heater.

“Be careful not to place the tank in front of a window or in too light an area, as this will lead to greening of the water with algae,” says Daryl.

He adds that fish don’t like to swim in a bare tank. “The addition of rocks or driftwood, carefully selected so as not to affect the chemistry of the water, will be of benefit.

“My advice for anyone starting out is to research first. Also be aware that fish are not set-andforget. They need regular feeding with a variety of foods, tank cleaning and water changing. However, they reward you with an ever-changing vista of movement and colour,” he says. 

FUN FACT

Guinea pigs can breakdance. Sort of! When they get excited, guinea pigs often jump straight up and down, sometimes turning 90 degrees in midair – a great dance move known as popcorning.

1 3

Hygger ‘Betta AQ030’ fish tank with LED light in White, $116.95*, I/N: 0446499

Hygger ‘HG998’ ETL certification 300W aquarium heater in Black, $49.45*, I/N: 0445104

Dynamic Power ‘Starfire’ 39L aquarium fish tank set with filter pump, $119.90*, I/N: 0260489

PERFECT MATCH

LIKE FINDING A HOUSE MATE, CHOOSING A PET IS A PRACTICAL DECISION AS WELL AS AN EMOTIONAL ONE

Whether you prefer pets with fur, feathers or scales, they will be a part of your family for a long time to come, so choosing the right creature to join your household is not a decision to make lightly. Be realistic about the life you and your pet will lead together – after you’ve considered all the aspects of pet ownership, you might be surprised by what pet actually suits you best.

Home alone

It’s important to consider how your pet will fit into your lifestyle. For example, are you looking for a pet to be with you most the time, or one that you could leave alone for a day or two? As

love a big slice of independence. If cats aren’t your thing, perhaps a fish might be your new best mate.”

Personality plus

Consider your potential pet’s social and environmental needs – how do you expect them to interact with your family and how much space will they need? Not all pets are suited to every household.

“Like us humans, every pet – whether cat, dog or rabbit – has a different personality, temperament and history,” says Suzana. “The breed isn’t as important as the pet’s personality and even its age.” If you’re purchasing an

animal through a breeder, have a frank conversation with them about your home and family – a responsible breeder will be honest about whether you’re a good fit.

If adopting a rescue animal, it’s important to get as much information about the animal you’re planning to adopt, says Suzana. “In turn, provide as much information as possible about your home so they can match you with an animal that suits.” While there are many breeds of dogs that are suitable for small spaces such as apartments and courtyards, they still need daily exercise, socialisation and affection.

Money matters

Whatever type of animal you decide is right for you, remember that caring for a pet can be a 20-year commitment. “Make sure you calculate an annual budget that includes vet bills, food, toys and registration fees. That way you will be well prepared for looking after your pet long term,” Suzana says.

HOW TO FIND YOUR FURRY FRIEND

Suzana Talevski from

The Lost

Dogs’ Home says, for someone who isn’t home much during the day, a dog is probably not the best option.

“Dogs love companionship and, if left alone for long periods, may risk suffering from anxiety separation, which in turn can lead to destructive habits,” Suzana explains. “A cat would be a better choice as felines generally

Your local rescue organisation is a great place to start for most types of pets. If you really want a specific breed, there are even specificbreed rescue organisations you can work with to find the companion that’s right for you. If you choose to go directly to a breeder, check with that breed’s association that the breeder is registered and has a good reputation.

“If you’re looking for a new dog, check your local shelter first. There are many puppies and dogs of different breeds needing a new home”

Suzana Talevski, The Lost Dogs’ Home

Think carefully about how your family – including existing pets – will cope with a new arrival

Words Jen Walker. Photography Getty Images.

Before

CATWALK

REWARD YOUR CURIOUS CAT WITH A CREATIVE SHELF ARRANGEMENT

Cats like to climb (and claw) but life indoors doesn’t offer many human-approved opportunities for these pastimes. If a cat tower isn’t cutting it as a tree substitute or scratching post, create your own pet playground using off-the-shelf shelves!

Go up the wall

First, select a wall on which to install floating and bracketed shelves – in a living area is ideal, so your cat can rise above it all without missing out. Plan the design by measuring the wall –and the cat! – to work out the number of shelves, their lengths and distance between them. A staggered layout is perfect so kitty can move gracefully from ledge to ledge.

Check floating shelves are rated to hold the weight of your cat. If using raw timber with brackets, apply a non-toxic finish and leave it to cure thoroughly before installing. For top shelf access, create a cat-sized cut-out using a jigsaw.

On plasterboard walls, locate the studs and noggins with a stud finder. Use painter’s tape to mark the bracket

locations centred over the studs, then mark the fixings on the tape, checking they’re level. Secure brackets to the wall and screw shelf panels to brackets. For masonry walls, use wall plugs and avoid fastening into the mortar joints. Attach a jute scratching mat with self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape to a shelf or two for your cat to scratch, and tie on toys. Then sit back and watch them tread the boards!

ABOVE Catwalk made using Flexi Storage decorative shelving in Gloss White in various sizes. Carinya 210mm x 170mm x 30mm x 15mm stayed brackets in Natural Pine, $5.48 each, I/N: 0091704. Decorated with a selection of toys, bowls and treats from the pet aisle at Bunnings‡. Baxter Bone ‘Cave’ pet bed in Charcoal, $79/one size, I/N: 0439310‡. Happy Tails 1.3m cat tunnel, $12.98, I/N: 0364891‡. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

An indoor climbing wall with a scratching mat gives cats a place to play and burn off energy. It is also a great way to curb roaming and hunting

Keep in mind…

n When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety equipment.

n Before drilling into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework, and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional.

n Make sure you use shelf fixings and fasteners appropriate for the type of wall and for the weight of the pets.

n Ensure any indoor plants within kitty’s reach are non-toxic to pets.

Planning to put up some floating shelves?Here’s how: bunnings.com. au/install-floating-shelves

Set up a useful hub for collecting all the bits and bobs you can re-use or recycle. This DIY unit has a workbench for quick fixes, gift-wrapping and upcycling tasks

MAKE IT

DIY RECYCLING

HUB, SEE PAGE 74

SORT & STORE STATION

THIS SMART RECYCLING HUB FREES UP DRAWERS AND DOLLARS BY ENCOURAGING CREATIVE RE-USE OF EVERYDAY STUFF

Words JEN WALKER Photography BRIGID ARNOTT Styling SAMI SIMPER

Remember the mantra of the three Rs for a sustainable lifestyle: reduce, re-use and recycle? That’s evolved to become the eight Rs, to encourage a move towards a circular economy, where we waste less and maximise the use of renewable resources.

A report by national waste management company Cleanaway found six in 10 Aussies are buying second-hand as a way to cut costs, and eight out of 10 are opting to repair, rather than replace, items*. To make it easier to deal with items that enter, stay or leave your home – and to better follow the Rs – consider setting up a ‘sustainability station’. This can hold recycling, mending gear and other useful items, reducing household waste while highlighting what can be cleverly re-used.

ABOVE Recycling station, see page 74 for DIY instructions. (On shelves, from top) Mr Clean shoe brush, $3.29, I/N: 4460431. Grunt jute twine, $3.20/75m, I/N: 4310292, and cotton shop twine, $8.30/300m, I/N: 4310543. Trojan general purpose scissors, $8.98/pack of 2, I/N: 0191107. Prayer plant in The Good Pot Co. ‘Roxy’ 16cm x 16cm indoor pot in Green, $16.98, I/N: 0430422 (plant sold separately). Boyle essentials brush value pack, $16.96, I/N: 0115222. (On bench, from left) Mirabella ‘Tuana’ table lamp, $79.95, I/N: 0423299 (globe sold separately). Practa Solutions paper towel holder in Chrome, $6.17, I/N: 2669887 (holding paper raffia rolls). Paper raffia, Officeworks, officeworks.com.au. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

72 bunnings.com.au | bunnings | bunnings | bunnings | bunningswarehouseaustralia

IMPLEMENT THE EIGHT RS



Rethink This is about being more aware of what you really need, and being open to different ways of meeting those needs that are better for both the environment and your wallet.



Refuse We’ve done well refusing plastic bags; what else could you do without? Always carry a keep cup and refillable water bottle and say ‘no’ to disposables. If you buy lunch to eat back at the office, refuse single-use plastic items and make use of the work kitchen’s utensils.



Reduce It’s easier not to buy something than to try to re-use or recycle it later on. The average Australian buys 15kg of clothes every year, and puts 10kg in landfill, with many of those tossed clothes worn once, if at all**. Think at least twice before you buy – and choose quality over quantity.



Reuse Many items have more than one function. Keep wrapping paper and ribbons for cards or craft materials, wire ties and string for the garden, and empty food tins and containers for garage or recycling station storage. Store the rubber bands that hold vegies together for general household needs, and collect net bags from onions and oranges to take when you’re buying more veg.

Repair and refurbish Making the most of what you already own is central to the eight Rs. Fill a drawer with tools and materials for mending and fixing, such as needles and thread, superglue, leather polish and fusible bonding web (great for small moth holes in clothes). Buy second-hand and adapt it to suit your style and needs. This goes beyond clothes to furniture – for example, a pre-loved sideboard or desk could be painted and refitted with old boxes or baskets for your recycling station.

Repurpose Unleash your inner stylist and give an item a second life – upcycling inspiration abounds online. Also regift usable and intact but unwanted items to friends or a charity.

Recycle You can recycle pretty much everything if you do your research. To check what can go in your kerbside recycling bin, see Recycle Mate (recycle mate.com.au). Then search online for other recycling programs (most of them are free) and dedicate a box to specific items such as make-up empties, coffee pods and toothbrushes. In most states, bottles and cans can be returned for cash – a great incentive for kids to sort the empties. Old batteries can be recycled in Bunnings stores (see bunnings.com.au/ battery-recycling) and plant pots can be recycled at selected stores (see right)‡.

Rot (yes, really!) Many food scraps, garden prunings, autumn leaves and lawn clippings can be broken down in compost bins and worm farms and re-used as fertiliser for outdoor soil. Find out how at bunnings.com.au/make-compost.

I/N: 0162892; Petal Pink, I/N: 0162912 (mixed with Bayleaf); Chintz Grey, I/N: 0162926; and Sundance, I/N: 0162895. Pro Renovator 25mm wall paintbrush, $3.85, I/N: 1661750. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Vases are for decorative purposes only, and not to be used as drink containers.

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If you have a stash of plant pots made from PP5, this is what you can do with them‡: bunnings.com. au/recycle-plant-pots

Read it!

ABOVE To make similar recycled vases, remove labels from empty plastic containers and bottles and thoroughly wash inside and out. Apply two to three coats of paint with a brush, leaving to dry after each coat. Porter’s Paints ‘Eggshell Finish’ broadwall washable paint, $11.10/100ml, in (from left) Bayleaf,

Adjust dimensions to suit your bench.

Pinnacle Hardware 1200mm x 910mm x 540mm timber top workbench unit, $79.99, I/N: 0434459. For all product details, see page 19.

RECYCLING HUB

Give a square pegboard round holes for custom storage

Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (mask, eye and ear protection)

n Tape measure and pencil

n Circular saw with straightedge

n Builder’s square

n Quick-grip clamps

n Drill with 3mm bit

n 25mm Forstner bit

n Mitre box with handsaw

n Microfibre cloth

n Mini microfibre roller with tray

n Two 2400mm x 1200mm x 12mm plywood sheets•

n 2400mm length 25.4mm

Tasmanian oak dowel•

n 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block

n Painter’s tape

n Primer

n Washable paint

n Timber adhesive

n 8G x 50mm countersunk screws

n 1200mm x 910mm x 540mm workbench with timber top

Keep in mind...

Curtain screen

n Make no-sew curtains from a canvas drop sheet and hemming tape. Hang from an extendable curtain rod at the front and expanding curtain wire at the sides.

DIY TOOLKIT

1

2 3 4

6.08m x 1.22m heavy

I/N: 1660535. 2 Ultra ‘Forstner’ bit set, $27.90/pack of 5, I/N: 6373522. 3 Porter’s Paints ‘Eggshell Finish’ broadwall washable paint in Olive Grove, $99.25/2L, I/N: 0365124.

4

n When using power tools and painting, work in a well-ventilated area and always wear the recommended safety gear.

n Store paint and chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.

1 Use a circular saw to cut plywood sheets to 1820mm for the back panel and 910mm for the front. From an offcut, cut a 100mm strip to make shelves 400mm, 300mm and 200mm long. On the front panel, mark a 100mm-square grid with a builder’s square. Clamp panels together, top and sides flush.

2 Use a 25mm Forstner bit to drill holes through both panels to 18mm deep, checking the depth of the first hole and using tape as a gauge for the rest. Tip: Drilling just halfway through the back panel creates a backing to hold the dowel pegs and prevent them from slipping.

3 From 25.4mm dowel, use a mitre box with a handsaw to cut eight 130mm shelf pegs, four 100mm hanging pegs and eight 30mm spacers. Smooth all cuts with 180-grit abrasive paper to remove breakout. Clamp spacers to hold while drilling through the centres with a 3mm bit.

4 Smooth both panels with abrasive paper and wipe away dust with a cloth. On the back panel, use painter’s tape to mask 910mm down from top, then apply primer and two coats of paint to the base of the back panel, the front panel and around the sides, leaving to dry after each coat.

5 On the back, mark 25mm and 850mm from the top to predrill 25mm in from the sides and at the centre. Mark 450mm down the sides to predrill 25mm in. Apply adhesive to the spacers, centre over the predrilled holes to secure from underneath with 50mm screws, leaving the heads protruding 10mm.

6 Apply adhesive to the top of the spacers, position the front panel flush with the top and sides of the back, clamp and flip to complete securing the screws, leave to dry. Secure the pegboard to the wall using suitable fasteners and position the workbench against it. Set out the pegs and shelves.

1 Wagner

duty canvas drop sheet, $36.35,

Windoware 18mm hemming tape in White, $5/10m, I/N: 0367132. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

FATHER’S DAY! FATHER’S DAY!

force and ‘cut’ above the rest!

Father’s Day with the Dremel 4300. Dremel’s most powerful corded tool, delivers precision, versatility, his hand.

Designer comfort

Scandinavians know comfort – their concept of hygge encapsulates the bliss of snuggling indoors, sheltered from the elements. They also know good design, specialising in combining functionality with elegant form. These concepts – comfort, innovation and aesthetics –are embodied in Mill’s energyefficient heating solutions

CHIC HEAT

With its minimalist white design and curved edges, the Mill panel heater appears to float on the wall, while also safely heating the room to your desired temperature.

The Mill ‘Gentle Air’ oil filled radiator is more energy efficient than other oil heaters and the enclosed element gently heats without burning dust or drying the air. Sleek and portable, with an inbuilt handle, this heater is a stylish asset, wherever you put it.

When you need a small heater that pumps out the heat, the Mill ‘PTC’ compact fan heater is a powerful tool in a chic package. The PTC heating element has a lower surface temperature than other fan heaters, meaning it won’t dry the air as much and is easy to manoeuvre.

SMARTER HEATING

Mill has raised the technology bar with their new Wi-fi Generation 3 panel heaters

@millheatanz

millnorway.com.au

Use the Mill app to set your temperature and the heater will adjust itself proportionally once that temp is reached, lowering its power level (and energy use). It also features predictive heating, which learns how long it takes to heat the room and behaves accordingly – if you want the room at 23 degrees at 5pm, the heater will start heating in time for a warm welcome. All Mill Wi-fi Generation 3 heaters carry the same signature styles and

of the original Mill heating range.

Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (mask, gloves, ear and eye protection)

n Tape measure and pencil

n Circular saw with straightedge

n Clamps

n Drill with 3mm and square-drive bits

n Lint-free cloth

n 26mm-thick timber panel•

n 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block

n Timber adhesive

n 8G x 50mm stainless steel square-drive screws

n Timber oil

n Robe hook

1 From the timber panel, use a circular saw with a clamped straightedge to cut a 840mm x 260mm shelf, a holder back 240mm x 80mm and front 240mm x 40mm, plus two 160mm x 40mm stoppers. Smooth the cuts and round over the edges slightly using 180-grit abrasive paper.

2 On the back of the shelf, make holes for the holders by marking 340mm in from the ends, then 35mm and 145mm in from one edge; drill right through with a 3mm bit.

3 Predrill into the side of the front and back holders, 40mm from the ends, avoiding going through, then apply adhesive. On the top of the shelf, centre the holders over the holes to secure with 50mm screws.

4 On the shelf back, centre the stoppers 90mm in from the ends. Predrill 40mm in from the ends of the stoppers, avoiding going all the way through the shelf. Apply adhesive and secure with 50mm screws.

5 Apply two coats of timber oil with a cloth to all sides, leaving to dry after each coat.

6 Attach a robe hook to the side for a towel, predrilling to secure with supplied screws.

Keep in mind...

n When using cutting tools and sanding, wear the recommended safety gear and work in a wellventilated area.

Adjust the shelf length to fit the width of your bathtub and choose moisture-resistant timber and stainless steel fasteners to avoid rust

BATH BUDDY

MAKE TUB TIME MORE LUXURIOUS WITH A BESPOKE SHELF THAT PUTS OFFCUTS OR NEW HARDWOOD TO GOOD USE

Photography BELINDA MERRIE Project and styling SAM VAN KAN

Top 5

TOOLS FOR DAD

WHETHER HE’S MR FIX IT OR A DIY WEEKEND WARRIOR, THESE ARE THE ESSENTIAL POWER TOOLS FOR HIS KIT

Words MITCHELL MCLEAN

For projects involving timber, a circular saw is a must-have to make perfectly straight cuts

A must-have for every toolbox, a drill driver covers just about every drilling and screwing job around the home, from assembling flat-pack furniture to fixing a loose hinge. Featuring adjustable speed settings, various drill bits and screwdriver attachments, a cordless drill driver will help make the task at hand more efficient, effortless and enjoyable, and means Dad’s old-school manual screwdrivers can take a back seat.

Circular saw

The go-to tool for making perfectly straight cuts in timber, a circular saw is a favourite for dads embarking on more hands-on projects. The adjustable depth and angle settings provide the versatility to tackle any cutting challenge, whether it’s sawing plywood sheets, trimming a door or building a cubby house. A circular saw ensures precise results, so Dad can be proud of his handiwork – no crooked cuts in sight.

3 2 1 Drill driver

High-pressure washer

Removing dirt and grime from surfaces with the power of a pressure washer is not only satisfying, it also helps to revitalise outdoor spaces and keep them looking their best. High-pressure washers make sprucing up driveways, decks and even outdoor furniture a breeze. This one-stop cleaning machine means Dad can say goodbye to mould and mildew without a scrubbing brush or broom in sight.

5 4

Random orbital sander

For many home improvements, a random orbital sander is a real game changer. Whether it’s refinishing furniture, smoothing rough edges or preparing surfaces for a fresh coat of paint, this power tool means Dad can achieve a smooth and professionallooking finish without hours of sanding by hand. Even better, the variable speed control provides enhanced usability, while the dust collection systems keep mess to a minimum.

Oscillating multi-tool

The compact design of an oscillating multi-tool makes it essential for anyone working in tight spaces. With interchangeable blades and various attachments, this handheld power tool provides the adaptability and precision needed to trim boards, remove grout or tackle delicate cutting tasks. Indispensable for home maintenance, its convenience and versatility will have Dad questioning how he ever got by without one.

1 Makita ‘LXT’ 18V brushless cordless drill driver, $225/ skin only (battery and charger sold separately),

I/N: 6240421. 2 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V 165mm circular saw, $149/skin only (battery and charger sold separately),

I/N: 6210595. 3 Karcher ‘K2

Plus’ high pressure washer, $169, I/N: 6270694. 4 Ozito 230W random orbital sander, $49.98, I/N: 6290233. 5 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V

available at all Bunnings stores, but

ordered.

Keep in mind…

multitool, $169/ skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 6210801. Some products are not

may be

1 Ryobi ‘ONE+’ 18V drill driver kit, $139, I/N: 0319598. 2 Makita 185mm 1200W corded circular saw, $159, I/N: 6240318. 3 Ozito 1800W 2030PSI high pressure washer, $119, I/N: 0254158. 4 Ryobi 300W random orbital sander, $89, I/N: 6210549. 5 DeWALT 18V XR Li-Ion 3 speed oscillating multi-tool, $339/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0138926.

n When using power tools, always wear the recommended safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area when cutting and sanding.

Open sesame

Get a quieter, safer and smarter garage door opener for your existing door. It’s so easy, with Chamberlain

These are familiar tales: the garage door that requires muscle and a dash of luck to open and close; the one with the no-longer-functional automatic opener; or the one that breaks the dawn stillness of the neighbourhood with a rattle, screech and a clunk. Sometimes, there’s not much you can do except to replace the whole thing – door, motor and all – right? Wrong. With Chamberlain garage door openers, you can swap your old system for a brand-new automatic opener (keeping the existing door) and install it yourself. Or just have a word with the helpful Bunnings Special Orders Desk and they’ll organise an installer for you ‡. They come with a five-year warranty.

MAKE IT SAFE

Conveniently

It’s

SHOPPING

Ultra

Chamberlain ‘RollerLift Plus’ roller garage door opener, $440, I/N: 0133220. Chamberlain ‘RollerLift’ roller garage door opener, $366, I/N: 0133219. Chamberlain ‘SectionalLift Plus’ sectional garage door opener, $440, I/N: 0133218. Chamberlain ‘SectionalLift’ sectional garage door opener, $335, I/N: 0133217. Chamberlain ‘myQ’ smart garage door opener connectivity kit, $136, I/N: 0133221. Merlin ‘myQ’ smart garage remote. LED light, $104, I/N: 0154763†

For more information scan the QR code or visit bunnings.com.au/ chamberlain

Replacing your garage door opener is about more than just convenience. If your garage door opener is more than 10 years old, it may not comply with current standards. All Chamberlain myQ capable openers* meet the current standards and you can add on additional safety features such as safety beams. These come included with the myQ smart garage door opener connectivity kit, making your garage smart and safe – especially for children and pets, and to stop accidental collisions with your car.

MAKE IT SMART

Chamberlain garage door openers come with long-range remotes, and if you want even more control over your garage security they’ve got you covered. All openers are compatible with myQ, which allows you to control your garage door from wherever you are in the world. Add a myQ connectivity kit and you can use your smartphone to let your kids into the house and check you remembered to close the door. You can even create schedules to close the door and turn on myQ lights, which helps keep your home secure when you’re on holiday. It’s next-level convenience for the modern home.

Struggling to get that rickety garage door open? Automating will save your sanity and back

gain entry when you get home without having to leave the car

easy to DIY, or have Bunnings install for you‡

quiet, keeping noise and vibrations to a minimum

wireless devices and wall controls are always out of reach of children, as they can contain coin/button cell batteries which may cause fatal injuries if swallowed. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Grow your own

Savour the flavour of vegies picked fresh from your garden

Carrot

Many wonder if carrots are worth growing, especially when a small store-bought bag is affordable. But once you taste the sweet flavour of homegrown carrots, you’ll know why! Use convenient seed tape for straight rows and less need for thinning. Or, for a head start on the season, go for seedlings.

Silverbeet

A stalwart of the kitchen garden with large, deep-green leaves and a white midrib, silverbeet is packed with vitamins and minerals and offers a range of culinary uses. Give it a spot in full sun or part shade, in soil that is well-draining and enriched with organic matter.

Spinach

This versatile green deserves a spot in your garden. It’s happy in pots or in the ground, in full sun or part shade and in most soil types, if welldraining and enriched with organic matter. Water regularly, pick leaves often and sow successive plantings to enjoy a long harvest window.

Radish

A fast grower, some varieties of radish are ready to harvest in as little as 4–6 weeks, and are perfect for snacking, pickling or throwing into salads. The young leaves can be harvested and used in salads or sandwiches, but don’t be tempted to pick all of them at once because this will affect root growth.

FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT bunnings.com.au/plants

Protect from snails and slugs with snail pellets – apply as directed and check withholding periods.

Suitable for pots or garden beds, and best in a sunny position. Sow seeds direct and water regularly.

Carrot Spinach

Silverbeet Radish

(Daucus carota subsp. sativus) Choose a spot in full sun. Dig in compost and ensure the soil is loose and well-draining.

(Spinacia oleracea)

(Beta vulgaris L. Cicla group) Liquid feed and water regularly to promote growth. Harvest by twisting outer leaves at the base.

(Raphanus sativus)