CairnsLife Magazine April 2013

Page 1

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Meet

PAUL LANGE & his global online

training organisation Accredited Online Training Highlights Photography t: 4054 5686 www.highlights.com.au

PLUS

We interview some of Cairns longest running businesses

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

UPFRONT

Standing the test of time.. For many Cairns businesses the road to success has not been easy, but they've chosen to ride the wave in exchange for the lifestyle our beautiful city has to offer. This month, in one of my favourite features to date (Businesses that have stood the test of time) we speak to an inspiring selection of people who've withstood many challenges over the years including the pilot strike, bird flu and the GFC, to emerge even stronger. We congratulate these businesses and hope you will enjoy their stories and learn some great tips to inspire you to take your business to the next level. The last few years haven't been easy, but I'm happy to say that after visiting many of my dear clients over the last month the signs are positive and business is looking up. In fact, many said last month's figures were the best they'd had since 2008! So for those still struggling, better times are ahead provided we keep supporting our wonderful local businesses.

Peter Lange Photographed by Highlights Photography

Kate van Eck Peta Burton Josie Rose Highlights Photography 7 Dennis Close t: 4054 5686 Peppermint Lane Photography m: 0437 064 130

Stuart Frost Photography www.frostyphoto.com t: 0424 035 547

Published by Cair nsLife Pty Ltd

Have a great month.

Jacqui April 2013

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GRIFFIN A LIFESTYLE CHOICE >=<;:9876:543=<295=:10841=<:/455:.=:-2:9876:,+*=6:24)<:/0=+:987:6=<4(=:-2:'0=:&643,+:%)-62$=+2<:/420:-:37559:=#74))=(:&9$:;:"-):)885:;!+88 =6:'-.5=: : 88(5=: -6 :-55:<427-2=(:8+:20=: 20: 5= =5:543=:/455:.=18$=:<8:$710:$86=:18$3862-.5=:-32=6:-:0-6(:(-9<:/86 : : 4+=: :/4+=:8+:20=: =+2087<=:'=66-1=: :/420:3755: 4210=+:3-145424=<: :/420:20=:<)=12-175-6:+4*02:< 9:-.8 =:20=:<1=+=: 4<:<=2:386:=+2=62-4+4+*: :!)-1487<: -<2=6:!742=:/420:<=)-6-2=:!27(9:-558/<:987:20=:8)248+:386:-+:= 26-:*7=<2:.=(688$:43 :+==(=( :%: =2:688$:/=6=:<08/=64+*:4<:20=:7524$-2=:)5=-<76=: :-:/-5 : 20687*0: 6=<<4+*: 88$:)=63=12:386:-55:208<=:= 26-:<08=<: : 8810:/455:2064 =:4+:20=:8)=+:<)-1=:83 : 88(5=: -6 : :=+ 89:)5-94+*:/420:820=6:)=2< '6- =5:4+:<295=:368$:20=:.-<=$=+2:1-6:)-6 :28:20=: =+2087<=:2- =:20=: 5= -286: :+8:7+/-+2=(:*7=<2<:/420: =$82=: +269:28:20=:1-6:)-6 : : 89=6:-+(:-+: +2=618$:<9<2=$:28:-55:-)-62$=+2< : "8/: 8(9: 86)86-2=: :)/:;: +=6*9:=3,14=+2:*-<:188 4+*:;:!85-6: 8/=6=(: 712=(:%46: 8+(4248+4+*:;: 6==: 82: -2=6: .9:)68(712:83 :20=:<9<2=$: :" : :!85-6:54*024+*;:58/:5426=-*=: -71=2<: :20=:.8+7<:4<:&-<:7<-*=:4<:4+157<4 =:83 :20=: : :3==<:+8/:20-2:6=-559:4<: 3,14=+2 : 8+<26712=(:/420: ! :%52427(=:.641 :4<:-+820=6:3=-276=:-<:20=:<2671276=:/455:+= =6:+==(:)-4+24+*:<8: :43 :987:-6=: <== 4+*:-+:-)-62$=+2:20-2:4<:2087*0237559:(=<4*+=(:/420:-55:20=:16=-276=:18$3862<:987:(=<=6 =:20-+:8. 487<59:'0=:&643,+:4<:20=:)6=3=66=(:10841=:386:20=:.79=6:/08:= )=12<:8+59:20=: =69:.=<2: '=5=)08+=: : : :28:<=176=:9876:-)-62$=+2: :54 =:20=:"43=<295=: : $-45 :*643,20 .4*)8+( 18$

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CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:28 AM Page 6 Cairnslife_steve.pdf 1 11/01/2013 2:56:53 PM

11 JJagera agera Close Close,, K Kamerunga, amerunga, QLD QLD,, 4870

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ENTERTAINERS ENTER RTAINERS A DELIGHT D WITH 140 SQ SQUARE QUARE A MET METERS OF UNDER UNDERCOVER CO OVER V DECK Architecturally inspi Architecturally inspired red b byy Cable Cable Beach Beach Resort Resort in Broome Broome – your your new home is part resort resort and a part rainforect rainffor o ect sanctuary sanctuary its where where your your peace, peace, tranquility and priv privacy acy is assur assured. ed. Entertain the multitudes multitudes on the fully under undercover coover 170m2 timber deck and set on 2000 squar squaree metr metres es of stunning rainf rainforest for o est bordering bordering the Barron Barron Gorge Gorge Na National tional P Park. ark. $# $# $$## $$## $$## $$## $$## $$## $$## $$## $$## $$##

"! # # !! "! # # !! # #! #! ! # ! # !# # ! # ! # # # #! #! ! # ! # !# # ! # ! # # # # High Cab Cable le Beac Beach h Club-style fea feature ture cor corrugated rugated iron iron ceiling Stainless steel “W “WOWâ€? OWâ€? kitc kitchen hen with eextravagant xtraavagant timber br breakfast eakfast bench bench and timber bi-f bi-fold bi fold o windo win windows ws ffor or o serving Stunning views thr through ough the gglass lass panels to the rainf rainforest for o est # !! # # !! # # # #! #! 3 ba throoms bathrooms P ole home with Br oome-style cor rugated shutters shutters is truly unique. unique. Pole Broome-style corrugated Spacious lounge open thr ough the rrestaurant-style estaurant-style Duce Doors Doors through 170 squar es of under coover deck‌ entertainment plus squaree metr metres undercover plus.. W alk a fr om the deck to another destina tion - a spectacular ste p pa th to the top of the b lock with commanding views fr om the Coral Sea and Walk from destination step path block from Lake Placid.

R ecently rrented ented ffor or o $650 $ per w eek. Recently week. T his unique home is full of quality extras extras and special fea tures in a tranquil rainf for o est backdr op w hich is anything anything but but suburbia! suburbia! However However unlike This features rainforest backdrop which ! # ! # # #! # # ! # ! # # # ! # # !! # !# # !# ## # # # # ! # # # # !! # # # # ! # # # # !! # # # ! # # # # ! # # # # # # ! # # ! # Centr es, Univ ersity and 15 mins fr om the Inter national Airport. Airport. Centres, University from International Price: $579,000 Inspect: Contact a gent to arrang e an appointment agent arrange

Danielle JJobling obling LJ Hooker Cairns Cairns Marlin Marrlin l Coast 0412 920 354

28 Lily Court Boulevard South Paradise Palms Estate Kewarra Beach

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Tucked away at the end of the culdesac in Lily Court this private, four bedroom residence is set back from the streetfront with an area at the side front for a boat bright. The kitchen with servery is central to the internal living area and outdoor patio overlooking the pool and rear garden, making it ideal for entertaining. ensuite is large, with double basins, corner spa bath and shower. The remaining bedrooms are situated around the media room, doubling up as a separate room for the teenagers. Apart from all of the above you are situated in a Gated Estate with a prestigious Golf Course right at your front doorstep. This residence offers the space and privacy where needed and at the same time has the large open plan areas to enjoy family life & tropical living. An open plan entertainer priced at $595,000 [WedID #342]

Premium Property Specialists | Grant Freeman | 4055 3278 | www.premiumpropertyspecialists.com.au

40 Thrush Terrace, Clifton Beach QLD 4879

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Stunning views of the surrounding hillside and mountain ranges back to Cairns. Positioned at the end of the culdesac with a commanding street presence, this recently constructed double storey four bedroom home has beautiful views from every room. The upstairs level has a large open plan designed lounge and living room leading to the ultra modern two pack galley kitchen. The kitchen runs the full depth of the house to the front and rear balconies and features black galaxy granite benchtops with soft closing drawers, pullout pantry and a large island bench. The front balcony has plate glass panelling so that your views are as seamless as possible and is the ideal spot for relaxing with the family or for entertaining a large number of friends. Front are rear stacking glass doors from the kitchen merge the balconies back into the home as outdoor tropical living areas. The top level also offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms. All bedrooms are airconditioned with split inverter systems. The master bedroom has walk in robes and an ensuite with Italian granite benchtops, double basins and a double shower. The lower level offers one bedroom, one bathroom, another living area and a large undercover patio. The plumbing is in place should you wish to convert this into a fully self contained lower living level. The laundry is also located on the lower level with plenty of storage and workable bench space. The large additional garage has ample room to accommodate additional cars or a boat with plenty of room for storage. The only available, recently constructed, top end, hillside property at the beaches with views. A rare opportunity priced at $1.3m [WedID #324]

Premium Property Specialists Grant Freeman | 4055 3278 | www.premiumpropertyspecialists.com.au

5 /)15 1+$,.,%6 5 3706415 .3 5 /)15 1+$,.,%6 5 3706415 .3

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BIGGER & BETTER ON THE BEA BEACHFRONT CHFR RONT O 876543251660/.-5,.5,+,7*)6.*5*(,*5/15(3216'1/&6%5$/#/.-5*(6.5432"$$5!.%5/*5(6765/.5*(65*3+5 8 765 4325 1660/.-5 ,.5 ,+,7*)6.*5 *(,*5 /15 (3216'1/&6%5 $/#/.-5 *(6.5 432"$$5 !.%5 /*5 (6765 /.5 *(65 *3+5 3375 5 6%733) 5 5 ,*(733)52./*5 3375 5 6%733) 5 5 ,*(733)5 2./*5 77/-(*53.5*(65 6, (5,*5 3706415 .3 55851),$$5 3)+$6 53 /-(*53.5*(65 6, (5,*5 3706415 .3 55851),$$5 3)+$6 53 55 5'5$6*543256. 345*(65+6, 65 5 2/6*53 5'5$6*543256. 345*(65+6, 65 5 2/6*53 5,5 6, (5$/ 61*4$6 5,5 6, (5$/ 61*4$6 ,7-65 ,$ 3.45 /*(5 733)5 *35 1/*5 , 0 5 76$, 5 5 6. 345 *(65 #/6 5 5 132.%5 3 5*(6516, 55 32"$$5$3#65*(65 3.#6./6. 653 ,7-65 ,$ 3.45 /*(5733)5*351/*5 , 0 576$, 5 56. 345*(65#/6 5 5132.%53 5 *(65 16, 55 32"$$5 $3#65 *(65 3.#6./6. 65 3 5,.56,7$45 5 ,.5 6,7$45 ) 37./.-5 ,$053.5*(651,.%5*35 ,* (5*(6512.7/165375,.5, *67.33.51*73$$5 5%/+15*35 33$53 5 (6.54325 ,. 5 5 (6.54325 ,. 5 )37./.-5 ,$053.5*(651,.%5*35 ,* (5*(6512.7/165375,.5, *67.33.51*73$$5 5%/+15*35 33$53 (652./*5(,15,5$3 052+5-,7,-65 5+33$5/.5*(65 3)+$6 55 35 2$$45,++76 /,*65,$$5*(,*5*(/15+73+67*45(,15*353 675 ,$$5 21,.5 33+675 (652./*5(,15,5$3 052+5-,7,-65 5+33$5/.5*(65 3)+$6 55 35 2$$45,++76 /,*65,$$5*(,*5*(/15+73+67*45(,15*353 675 ,$$5 21,.5 33+675 33.5 5 5 5*35,77,.-6543275/.1+6 */3.5375,*5 5 330675 3706415 .3 5 .5 5 5 5*35,77,.-6543275/.1+6 */3.5375,*5 5 330675 3706415 .3 5

Susan Cooper

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

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THE GWENDOL GWENDOLYN DOL LY YN $2.7 Million

Trevor T revor Bostock and Omni Builder Builderss presents presents

cantilevers like a huge viewing pla tffor o m abo ve the cantilevers platform above

this landmark landmarrk home hom that that ticks all the the bo xes of a boxes

gardens with more more uninterrupted uninterrupted views. views. beautiful gardens

which has its own own amenities. amenities. which

truly unique, unique, architect architect designed and alternatively alternatively constructed

The two-way two-way European European appointed and opulent The

Triple ggarage, arage, storage shed and workshop/studio worrkshop/studio ksh k Triple

landscaped hill slope aatt the very very top of Cairns. Cairns.

house

set

within

1500m2

of

kitchen opens out onto the pool whilst whilst the dining kitchen

T he pinnacle of design with privacy, privacyy, security The

area opens onto the lar ge w ooden pa tio. With With i area large wooden patio.

and bespoke beauty this is a one of a kind house. house.

doors on both sides, sides, this house can be stacking doors

Foor completion co dates and design details please call For dates

Designed as a private private resort resort it comes to you you gift

ardens and either enclosed or fully open to the ggardens

Lisa on 0432 084 781.

that resort resort feel. views to complete that

Entr operty is thr ough Entryy into this unique pr property through

Upstairs are are 2 King sized sized guest bedr ooms with Upstairs bedrooms

ooversized versized w ooden carv ed door nal wooden carved doorss into a semi inter internal

bathroom and the main bedroom, bedroom, ensuite and bathroom

courty ard with a wet wet edge pool tha overrlooks l courtyard thatt overlooks

robe. The The main bedroom bedroom features features huge walk in robe.

the city y, acr oss stepping stepping stones that that hover hover above abo ove city, across

glass walls and hovers hoovers above above the pool enjoying enjoying glass

views of the pool on one side and the city lights

some time in the bale that that sits amongst the palms

otherr. on the other.

Every night the city creates createss a new and fforever or o ever Every

lounge to the left and a dining and kitc hen to the kitchen

changing kaleidoscope kaleidoscope of lights just ffor oor yyou. ou. changing

The full moon rises above abo ove the inlet and lights up The

the city and inlet, out to Gr een Island and be yond. Green beyond.

er palm tr ees and eevery very mor ning yyou ou ar the silv silver trees morning aree greeted b boats sailing through through the leeds. leeds. greeted byy the boats

Down a private private set of stair s, acr oss your your own own Down stairs, across

tropical internal internal garden garden complete with priv ate tropical private

Lisa Costa 0432 084 781 lisa@omnicor lisa@omnicorp.com.au p.com.au

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THE DAINTREE ICECREAM COMPANY IS FOR SALE!!! 10/.-,+*)-/+-(-'/&)%/$)-,##,"%!+/% -,&&)".-(-&( !',!.-'/&).% ')- !./+)..-/+-%0)-$( +/ *)+%- (/+%"))- (/+&,").%-/ )('-&,"-(-$,%/ (%) -*,!#'),"-.,')-%"( )" --10/.- !./+)..-/.-%,%('' -!+/ !)-(+ - ,"' -")+, +) -- %-0(.- ))+-).%( '/.0) -&,"- - )(".-(+ -*,+%/+!).-%,- ", -10)")-/.0! )-#,%)+%/('-&,"-) #(+./,+ - -(*").- - (/+-",( -&",+%( )- - ( ,"-#)"$(+)+%-*")) - (* - ,!+ (" - /%0-#"/ (%)-. /$$/+ -0,').- - .%( '/.0) -) ,%/*-&"!/%-,"*0(" . 0)")- -&"!/%-#", !*) -/.-!.) -/+-$( /+ -($( /+ ' - /&&)")+%-(+ -#,#!'("-/*)*")($.- - - ) ",,$-%",#/*('-,#)+-#'(+-0,$) - (%0",,$.- - & *) * *',+)-.0)'%)"- - - ("-*("#,"%- - )#("(%)-.0,#-(")(- - %(%)-,& -%0)-("%-*,$$)"*/('- /%*0)+-(+ -#!"#,.)- !/'%- . $&")) )"-",,$- - - )+)"(%,". .,'("-) !/#$)+% EVERYTHING READY TO GO FOR THAT SEACHANGE YOU HAVE ALWAYS DREAMED OF - AND LET’S FACE IT WHO HASN’T DREAMT OF OWNING AN ICECREAM COMPANY? -

Tracey Brady | 07 40 989 114 | thedaintreeicecreamcompany@gmail.com

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Property Offer

3

MONTHS

LE ETS TA ALK PR PROPERTY ROPERTY

FREE PROPERTY PR ROPE O RTY T

MANAGEMENT MAN NAGEMENT

Call Lisa Costa

0432 084 781

lisa@omnicorp.com.au

It is hard to ‘talk’’ property now

! ! ! ! !

money

without paaying y respect to those

"! " "! !

construction costs and market

who haave stories of hardship and

completely

sentiment.

"! !

wonderful to see them change and

Indicators are more along the

families are not on the way to the

evolve and how the opportunities

lines of capital growth, rental

! ! ! !

available morph with the latest

returns and yields on property

en nvvisioned.

trends.

cost, the amount of properties

There is no doubt that the

Predicting the direction of the

available foor sale, the amount of

fascinatingg.

It

is

and

cost

of

credit,

property market was recalibrated

" "! !

daays y properties stayy on the market

after the 2004-2008 values were

fraught with danger – even foor

beffoore selling and discounting on

driven up by in nvestment banking

those who are experts.

listed prices by sellers.

strategies.

decade ahead is unchartered

Whether you are buyingg, selling,

The

It could be debated that in nearly

territory foor property prices and

renting or investing the market

every market and in almost every

all the inffor o mation you can read

is alwaays y positive in some way.

type of business, disaster comes

is only as good as both your own

These actions, of course, are

from the business model rather

understanding and goals and that

on intertwined but how you focus o

than the business market and it

of the writer.

and develop them, individually or

is no difffe f rent in real estate and

A lot of economists and real estate

as a whole can make each process

propertyy. The business model that

experts don’t make decisions

completely unique.

created the GFC was not because

based on what drives the market

If you haave been interested in

of the ‘’market’’ it was because of

but rather on what indicators

" "! ! ! !

the strategies that created a false

they see happening in the market.

step, now is the best time of all

market and then promptly fell

Now these are obviously linked in

to start – the market isn’t going

or apart when questioned. Great fo

a major wayy but haave distinct and

anywhere too quick and it allows

those who understood the nature

very difffferent realities if you are

plenty of time to learn the basics

of the waave they were riding – not

in the property market to make

beffoore investingg. And there is just

so good for o those who did not.

money or secure a house to live in

a whole world of inffor o mation

But now that they haave gone (both

that will perhaps become a secure

out there to learn from and I can

the strategies and the prices) there

asset in the future.

assure you that once you start you

are

everywhere.

Owner occupiers tend towards

maay well be agreeing with The

There are alwaays y opportunities in

a lifestyle property and whether

Donald that ‘the real excitement

real estate. I lo ove Trump’s quote

or not they can afffor o d a home

is playying the game’.

of ‘’’ Well e real estate is alwaays y

that they can enjoy and grow in.

In the next few months we will

good, as far as I’m concerned�.

Investors on the other hand tend

visit property concepts and trends

He goes on to add “Money was

towards properties that will give

and how to generate more money,

never a big motivation for o me,

them the best return in capital

create more wealth and whether

opportunities

except as a way to keep score.

growth and returns, as well as

! " ! "

The real excitement is playing the

income and possible future use.

! ! !

! ! ! !

One of the key ‘drivers’’ of the

build, develop, demolish or simply

million or so no doubt)

property of course is afffor o dability

give it a quick coat of paint!!

The point is it sums up the

foor both in nvestors and owner

enthusiasm of propertyy.

It is

occupiers. After all who doesn’t

about being well inffor o med of

want that beautiful house for o a

your sector of the market, being

tidy sum? Or that great property

comffoortable that you know almost

! " ! !

everything in that sectorr. It is all

drivers are population growth,

about how you look at it and how

interest

13 I CairnsLife

rates,

availability

of

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Social Pics

14 I CairnsLife

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CBWC N t Networking king LLuncheons Luncheon h ns Street, 8/10 Shields Str eet, Cairns, Cairns, Qld 4870 P 07 40 314675 3/16 Macr Macrossan ossan Street, Street, Port Douglas, Qld 4877 P 07 40995526. Like us on

face facebook @ The Eye Boutique

www.theeyeboutique.com.au www .theeyeboutique.com.au Shop Online with The Eye Boutique

15 I CairnsLife

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UPFRONT

Accredited Online Training “It’s about creativity, thinking outside the box and ultimately, having fun” Richard Branson

Words Josie Rose

For local, Paul Lange, Cairns did not restrict his vision or determination in establishing a global online training organisation. Now approaching its 10th anniversary, Accredited Online Training has experienced immense success, not only nationally, but also on an international level. Paul has not only established an innovative and influential organisation, he has also reached a global market- all from his home in Cairns. Due to the desirable lifestyle, Paul, his wife and their young sons, choose to live here. Establishing a business that could operate within a national and international market was no small feat, yet Paul wasn’t discouraged by our rural city, if anything, it encouraged him. Through innovation and forwardthinking, Paul has been able to facilitate a desirable family life and realise his dream; to provide interactive online training courses to everyone, anywhere, any time. With a background in training and education, and, seeing an opportunity to make a difference to students and teachers alike, Paul’s vision was to deliver accessible and accredited online training. From its Cairns headquarters, AOT has experience rapid growth, major success and has become a nationally and internationally accredited method of study. With offices in Melbourne and India, and with students from nearly every country, AOT’s revolutionary training method has been embraced worldwide. Luella Kay is AOT’s Sales and Marketing Manager and has been instrumental in the company’s climb to global recognition. “Who would have thought you could establish and operate a national and international training company from Cairns, but it is possible. We just have to be a little more Branson-minded, like Paul”, says Luella. Through savvy thinking and determination,

Paul was able to establish AOT at the ideal time and, in the process, has helped develop Cairns’ reputation as a thriving city with progressive businesses. AOT develops their own courses, employs their own trainers and takes students right through to completion of their qualification, earning them the title as Australia’s largest premier online training organisation. AOT provide qualifications equivalent to TAFE and University qualifications. With a range of subjects at Certificate II, Certificate III, Certificate IV levels, a Diploma level, as well as short courses across a range of subjects including hospitality, business and IT, there is something for everyone, opening the door to numerous opportunities.“The benefits of online training are that students work at their own pace from any location, have no classes to attend, one-on-one trainer support from 8.30am to 11pm daily, ongoing flexibility, and our courses are affordable”, say Luella. . Paul is currently in the process of integrating his 6 companies, including flagship company AOT, to operate under the one banner: ‘International Training and Development Group’. ITAD is a full service, end-to-end global training organisation and each company within the group plays an important role such as industry recognised training, homestay opportunities, nationally recognised qualifications, orientation programmes, eLearning and software development. Whether you are a business wanting to provide staff with higher learning, are looking to expand your skills or attain recognised degree, AOT has the knowledge, capacity and ability to facilitate your goals and make dreams a reality. Not next month or next year; today. Living in Cairns does not mean we are

16 I CairnsLife

limited. To survive, we have all learnt how to attract national and international business and customers, which has instilled in us the skills to overcome geographical challenges in this global market. By dreaming outside the box and refusing to be limited by negative perceptions, Paul has launched his local company into a national and international market. Cairns is no longer limited by distance, technology or cultural differences, and Paul Lange has proved that big things are possible, even from a small city.

Global Industry Training: Recognised for delivering the industry's best nationally recognised training as well as human resource consulting services within the civil construction, mining and transport industries. The Australian Homestay Network: The industry leader for providing high quality and compliant homestay opportunities for international students studying within Australia. The Australian Vocational Learning Institute: Delivers nationally recognised qualifications to members of the community services industry. Student Welcome Services: A company dedicated to providing pre and post arrival online orientation programs that appropriately prepare international students for their arrival in Australia. Raw Pixel: ITAD development company, consisting of an experienced team of instructional designers, specialist eLearning graphic designers and software programmers creating training and assessment content, interactive exercises and corporate induction, for ITAD group training companies as well as external corporate clients and training organisations.

photographed by Highlights Photography Ph: 4054 5686 www.highlights.com.au

Paul Lange

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Highlights photography

UPFRONT

The Cox Family Portraits: Peter shares the story behind the images Whenever we start a new project it’s important for Charmaine and I to take the time to sit down with our clients and get to know them personally. This gives us an insight into both their expectations and each unique story. After speaking to Jodie and David and meeting their children, our first instinct was to portray them as the loving family they are – capturing both their unity and their individualities. During our conversation, Jodie and David referred to their busy life – comparing it to a merry-go-round filled with work, school and various hobbies. We also discovered the family’s passion for collecting clocks. Each of these clocks holds a special meaning to them including one that belonged to David’s mother, another that they bought during a trip to London, and others that were chosen to commemorate special occasions in their lives. In order to ensure the images we created suited their home, we then discussed their décor and suggested some appropriate clothing for the shoot. Finally each family member was asked to select something personal that they loved to do in their spare time and a clock from their collection that suited their personality. While the main shot of the family was photographed in our studio, the merry-goround was an image we photographed during a recent trip to Avignon, France. We feel the final image works on many levels for this family and with its subtle personal details and memory triggers will be a treasured piece of art for years to come. In contrast, the local bush-setting image has a completely different mood – capturing another side of the family that is also sure to take pride of place within their home.

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Highlights photography

When it comes to standing the test of time, photographers Peter Rossi and Charmaine Heyer believe it all comes down to having a genuine love for what you do. After 21 years of running Highlights Photography, this multi-award-winning team has continually evolved as both people and artists – always striving to make their work as personal and professional as possible. With Peter named Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year a staggering 5 times, and Charmaine earning the title of Australian Illustrative Photographer of the Year an equally impressive 4 times, they are clearly two people who live and breathe their art. But what really sets them apart is their ability to delve deeper into each individual’s story. “We really need to get to know our clients in order to make it real,” Charmaine says. “It’s also about the experience they have on the shoot and the memories they have of that day. Unfortunately people often don’t realize the benefit of having a portrait done until it’s too late – the love that it brings to a home and what it says about you as a family.”

One person who couldn’t agree more is Jodie Cox, who recently engaged Highlights Photography to do a series of family portraits. “We started to think about where we were in life and realized that you have these moments in time that you can never get back again,” she says. “We see the photographs as an investment in our family.” Jodie, whose story is featured in more detail on the facing page, says that one of the advantages of working with Peter and Charmaine was that they made the whole process so easy. “Our lives are full of every day decisions and when you’re dealing with something outside your expertise it’s good to know you’re in capable hands – not too mention, I

really like these guys,” she laughs. These days Peter and Charmaine are recognised as much for their artistic award winning pieces as they are for their general portrait work. Always pursuing new avenues, they are currently searching for a number of subjects to be incorporated into award entries, website material and an upcoming book. At the end of the day both believe their longevity relies heavily on the honesty and integrity of their work. “The reality is, our clients are going to be looking at that picture for a long time,” Peter says. “We want it to be something that’s truthful and uplifting – a statement within itself about their lives.”

Put Yourself in the Picture Peter and Charmaine are currently searching for the following subjects: 1. Pets that look like their owners 2. Passionate Collectors 3. Identical twins of all ages 4. Five generations in one family 5. People with a remarkable story to tell Suitable subjects will receive a free session and a 20 x 25cm art print. Ph: 4054 5686, www.highlights.com.au

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Test of! Time

Special Feature

DFS Galleria Cairns When it comes to luxury brands such as Gucci, Ferragamo, Fendi, Bulgari and Coach, DFS Galleria is the ultimate destination. First established in Cairns in 1996, it relocated to its current location on the corner of Abbott and Spence streets in 2001. The old telegraph building’s historical façade lends beautifully to the gallery-style retail space, home to the leading brands in clothing, watches, fine jewellery, handbags, perfume, sunglasses and cosmetics. Founded by Charles Feeney and Robert Miller in 1960, the initial concept was solely based on dutyfree shopping. Robert Miller then partnered with LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) and, in a bid to offer customers a more relaxed shopping experience, the ‘galleria’ concept was born. With

150 brands available across 35 locations worldwide, DFS Galleria is a global feat. At 17, Krista van op Stal joined DFS Galleria Cairns as a beauty advisor. During her 9 years with the company, Krista worked with every brand and in each department, igniting her passion for management. Now, at only 25, Krista is DFS Galleria Cairns product sales manager- a huge achievement at such a young age. Despite DFS Galleria’s global success, Krista says that a common misconception remains. “People assume that DFS Galleria is exclusively duty-free shopping, but we’re actually a retail store offering the option of duty-free prices”. Unlike department stores where products are generally synonymous to that chain, Krista

personally selects which products to house. “We’re northern hemisphere driven so if you see a piece in Vogue or on the catwalk in Paris, you’ll find it here first, and if it’s not in-store, we can source it. A tribute to our total success is we do not just focus on one market; we cater to all people that have a passion for luxury products and love spoiling themselves”. Krista recently sourced a Tiffany engagement ring for one of her local VIP clients. “Other brands that we do carry include Loewe, Swarovski, Lesportsac and Dunhill. Luxury, fashion and fine watches such as Omega, Longines, Tag Heuer, Marc Jacobs, Diesel, Michael Kors, Armani and Hermes. Ready-to-wear items including Burberry and Ralph Lauren.

20 I CairnsLife

Words Josie Rose Fashion sunglasses: Rayban, with Prada and Dior coming in April”. DFS Galleria Cairns is also heavily involved in the local community. “We are involved in ‘Passion for Fashion’ at the Shangri La and supporting different local charities every month. It means a lot to us to continually support and reinvest in the cairns community”. Due to its ability to cater to a broad range of clientele and adapt to changing trends and demands, DFS Galleria Cairns has experienced huge growth over the years, even though the recession. “When faced with a negative, we strive to make it a positive. We are flexible, innovative and creative”.

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Special Feature

Test of! Time

&

DIAMONDS Diamonds are renowned for their representation of 'forever', so the name 'Diamonds & Time' is fitting for this Shields Street jewellery shop – not only because it sums up the wide and stunning range of exquisite diamonds, precious gems and watches, but because the business itself has stood the test of time.

TIME

In 1977, Nick Foutsis and his former business partner established Diamonds & Gold. When his business partner retired, Nick re-opened in 2008 as Diamonds & Time with a new business partner by his side, Jean Parsons. Jean was the store’s manager for many previous years and shares Nick’s endearing passion for jewellery. Nick began making jewellery at the age of 15. He was originally trained by master jewellers in Greece and went on to work for Diamond Traders in Sydney, establishing himself as a gifted jewellery craftsman. Nick continues to design and hand-make unique jewellery while offering a personalised

21 I CairnsLife

service and affordable, quality pieces. Nick and Jean feel the store’s success is due to the quality of their jewellery designs, strong customer relationships and personal service. “We have many repeat customers” says Jean, “Locals know and trust us.” Despite the GFC delivering its fair share of challenges, Nick and Jean have remained positive. Manager, Julie Keating, explains, “We provide face to face service and a quality guarantee”. With a following of loyal customers, decades of combined jewellery experience and an in-house workshop, Diamonds & Time’s future is looking as bright as its sparkling past.

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:29 AM Page 22

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Test of! Time

Two corporate careers, a caravan park and a castle! “What captures it all is when the

Electric technology and long lunches

to do something gainful”, adds Judy.

Joe Paronella (Jose’s grandson) if it

Paronella

they

is where Judy, Mark and their

Mark called their agent from a public

was on TV. He said, ‘Yes’. I asked

wanted to move Jose’s headstone

family

decided

corporate titles met and an office

phone one day and heard an Innisfail

him was there a cockatoo without

here”.

romance began. But after several

castle was for sale. 1pm arrived with

feathers? He said, ‘Yes’. So, perhaps

This gesture will become the

years, including six in Singapore, the

a warm welcome on December 17,

it’s all meant to be”. Judy leans in.

greatest accolade to ever grace the

family left their 5-star lifestyle and

1993 the moment the Evans became

“Before we even met Joe, I started

five hectare, heritage-listed, eco-

several “incredulous” faces to return

its owners.

believing Mark is Jose reincarnated”.

certified grounds of Paronella Park,

to Oz. Mark summing it up as “a

Judy did up a left-brained, 60-item

Maybe, he might be.

the Spanish castle in Mena Creek; a

two-year family trip, a chance to

“nothing’s impossible” to-do list and

place the late creators will most

catch fish everyday and look for

they began ticking off jobs. “The first

surely feel at home, a place that has

something to do that was “fun and

10 years was about letting it happen

MARK & JUDY’S TEST OF TIME TIPS:

one heck of a story many know well

interesting”; the latter, the brief they

and the next 10, making it happen”,

• Have self belief

and one owners, Mark and Judy

gave their real estate agent.

says Mark. Their tourism awards

• Build great relationships

Evans, love telling.

But having “zigzagged across the

submission was also “a great

• Have a plan, write it down

But this article takes a different

country” for 18 months the Evans

guideline for creating a business

and do it

perspective on Paronella Park’s past.

headed up the Hume to Cairns. “It

plan”, says Judy where “we exceed

• Enjoy what you do

It also goes beyond its Everest

felt like home, even smelt familiar”,

customer

Owners: Mark & Judy Evans

successes like the 100 000 “travellers

reflects Judy. “That wasn’t the flying

different, make staff feel like family

1671 Japoonvale Rd

not tourists” that visit yearly, the 38

foxes either”, quips Mark. For three

and guests at home” never forgetting

(Old Bruce Highway), Mena Creek

staff and their low 17% turnover in

months they settled into Palm Cove

the objective; to share Jose’s story.

4065 0000

the last financial year, the park’s two-

Caravan Park at $11 a night

One thing they’ll always remember

www.paronellapark.com.au

year pass card with its 70% customer

“surrounded by 5-star resorts”

though is when they first saw that

The Girl from Mena Creek (hot off

return rate and the dozens of

eventually becoming “the most

castle. “I felt like I’d been here

Cairns’ printing press)

tourism awards. This time the plot

successful fishing family that year”,

before”, says Mark. He had when he

Note: Their current to-do list; bottle the

starts here; at GE.

they laugh. But, I got bored”, says

was 12. “I could recall seeing a castle,

water, use local produce, re-create the

A high flying world of 70’s General

Mr ideas-man. “There was an urge

a waterfall and cockatoo and asked

ballroom and get hotel-ready

service,

23 I CairnsLife

dare

to

be

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:29 AM Page 24

Business Profile

W

A Red Carpet Treatment February 12 was an auspicious occasion for three Cairns employees. That day they joined an 18-year business, Reds Salon and Spa. In fact, they “joined a family”. This is how Heather and Lee Cohen work. “We place importance on our people and when they leave we ask when they’re returning to the Reds family”, says Ingham-born Heather. Imagine feeling at home at work where there’s friendship, trust, autonomy, pathways beyond apprenticeships and opportunities to showcase skills on a world class echelon. It’s happening. At Reds. And, it begins with quality from the top. Christine Archer, who has worked with Reds for 15 years “has very high standards and keeps everyone’s high”, Heather says. Lisa Blackie who started five years ago now runs Townsville Reds (2010) and R2 (2012), Matthew Perrin who “we helped secure a job with UK’s Charles Worthington, a hairdressing god”, is now head of training and Troy Thompson, fresh from New York’s Fashion Week, is also

part of Lee’s mentoring group showcasing a collection at an international who’s who hairdressing convention. So, it was a “no brainer when our three new members started”, says Heather “with systems in place, opportunities and people to make it seamless”. What a world to welcome Reds’ new recruits; Brenda Adams, a proud, Nar Nar Goon dairy farmer’s daughter “wanted to work within Reds’ five-star standards”. Her 14 years in beauty therapy, VUT qualifications and former Palm Cove Beauty Room business has amounted to “seeing successful client results” whether it’s rejuvenating a teen’s scar tissue or poofing a great, great grandfather with arthritis parafin treatments. “I love that my clients are like a box of chocolates”, chuckles Brenda. From Brazil to Bournemouth Adrianne Eteen-Bliss, another highly qualified beauty therapist and previous owner of Bliss Beauty, needed some vitamin D and now calls Cairns home. Adrienne’s dedication

to skin health means insisting “her knowledge is continuously updated and if it’s bad pigmentation, pregnancy break outs, acne or scars we set a plan and treat from inside out”. Kelli Jones’ days at St Mary’s rocking up with hot pink hair to a Reds interview dressed in a donut uniform are the prequel to this teenager turning her high-heeled, hard working trial into a four-year hairdressing apprenticeship. The Queensland Training and Apprentice of the Year finalist then built a decade with Reds, left, adjusted to life as a mum and is now “back home” doing “pep-talk apprentice training with the original ad she cut-out from 1997. Heather and Lee couldn’t have provided better foundations for their business which all began with Sheridan Street in ’95 to Edge Hill in 2000. “In those early days as we grew, our knowledge of running a business grew”, remembers Heather. During the down turn we also looked to “where the economy was steady and that was Townsville” and throughout

24 I CairnsLife

“tourism ups and downs we change focus and cross-promote. With every challenge there’s opportunity, we look hard for it but when one door closes another opens”.

Reds Salon & Spa RED SALON & SPA’S TEST OF TIME TIPS: Turn all negatives into positives Recognise a challenge quickly/ overcome it quickly Have systems in place that work Find good staff Treat staff like family/clients like coming to your home 2 Greenslopes St, Edge Hill 4032 0445 Tues & Sat: 9 - 5pm Wed & Fri: 9 -7pm Thurs: 9 - 9pm www.redssalon.com.au

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:29 AM Page 25

Local Style

Wol fnc ub Wolfnc ub Wolfn c ub Wo l fnc le at Wo lfn cu b On e Te as po on Av ail ab

LOCAL FASHION

25 I CairnsLife

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Local Style

le at Wo lfn cu b On e Te as po on Av ail ab

LOCAL FASHION

26 I CairnsLife

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is an independently owned fashion boutique catering to both Men and Women. We have been supplying our amazing clothing, excellent customer service and unique style to the people of Cairns since early 2012. Since opening we decided to broaden our horizons and supply world wide via our on-line store. 17 Spence Street

(07) 4028 3699

www.bitchnhound.com

shop@bitchnhound.com

(07) 4222 6669 27 I CairnsLife

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CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 29

Local Style

le at Wo lfn cu b On e Te as po on Av ail ab

LOCAL FASHION

29 I CairnsLife

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BEST LABELS, BEST FIT, BEST HAVE A LOOK

Shop 8 Regal 52 Macrossan Street Port Douglas 07 4099 6335

shopping with a ‘funky fun’ and ‘stylish edge’

Photography:

Melissa Horton

Shop 5, Saltwater Building Macrossan St Port Douglas

OPEN 7 Days a week Address: Opposite Market Ground 24 Gillies Highway Yungaburra Follow us: www.facebook.com/globalfreestyle For info phone: 4095 2727 Website: www.globalfreestyle.com.au.

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 31

Local Style

HAIRDRESSER OF THE

MONTH Rylee Lamont Q.. How Q How long long ha have ve y you ou been a Ha Hairdresser irdresser for? for? A. 5 ½ yr yrss Q W hat g ot y ou interested interested Q.. What got you in Hairdressing? Hairdressing? A. When When I was young young my my mum mum was a masseuse masseuse and she w ould would work w ork alongside hairdressers. hairdressers. I would w ould spend spend most S Saturdays aturdays hanging around around the the salon eexperimenting xperimenting wit with h hair on mannequin manne quin he heads‌. ads‌. My passion started started fr om a yyoung oung from age‌ age ‌ Q.. Hair Q Hair cuts, cuts, colours colours and a nd styl styles es a are re co constantly nstantly cha nging, ho w do y ou k eep changing, how you keep up? A. There There rreally eally is so much much out tthere here no w‌ Fa acebook, now‌ Facebook, mag azines, music music videos. videos. It’s It’s magazines, so easy easy to to ggain ain inspiration inspiration from from an these sour ces. anyy of these sources. Q W here are a re y ou currently currently Q.. Where you w orking? working? Q How long long ha ve you you Q.. How have w orked there there for? for? worked A. 12 months months

WE ARE....

~ Salon Director ~ Manager/Senior Stylist ~ Senior Stylist ~ Senior Stylist ~ Senior Stylist

eenjoy njo y the t he eexperience.... xpe rie nce....

31 I CairnsLife

Q Q.. Where W here do y you ou see y yourself ourself in 5 years years time? A. Well Well it’s it’s har d to to sa y, b ut hard say, but wit within hin tthe he ne next xt 5 yyears ears I w would ould lo ve to to br oaden m ons love broaden myy horiz horizons – mor cialized cour ses, moree spe specialized courses, hair extensions, extensions, photographic photog raphic w ork etc. etc. With With a little little bit of work ttravel raavel tthrown hrown in there, there, anything anything is possible. possible. I like to to ke keep ep m myy opt ions ope n. options open. Q Q.. Who W ho do y you ou look look up to a nd w hy? and why? A. I look up to to m myy boss boss,, Y Yvette ve t t e T Thompson. hompson. She She is a fantastic fantastic hair hairdresser dresser w who ho jug juggles gles he herr w work/home ork/home life vvery er y w well. ell. S She he st ill has so much much passion and still mot ivation ffor or o tthe he indust ry motivation industry and put much effort effort o int o putss ssoo much into and knowledge knowledge has he lped me helped ggreatly reatly and I feel feel it has enabled enabled me tto o ggrow row conside rably as considerably a st ylist during tthe he past 12 stylist mont hs. months. Q W hat style style do you you love l o ve Q.. What mo st at at the moment? moment? most A. I don’t don’t have havve a particular particular style style I love love at at the the moment, moment, because because I tthink hink st yle and fashion is mor style moree about ho w yyou ou can make it how w ork for foor your your client. client. I fe el I’m work feel doing some ggreat reat colouring ttechniques echniques aatt the the mome nt and moment also rreally eally eenjoying njoying cur rent current me ns st yling. mens styling.

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 32

Local Style

Designer

SHOWCASE The Fashion Incubator’ presented by Cairns Central and FNQ TAFE

Cairns Central’s innovative marketing

Vivienne Francine, prestigious and award-

team, headed by Louise Struber, has

winning fashion designer, has over 21

collaborated with TNQ TAFE to showcase

years’ industry experience. She established

aspiring fashion designers. ‘The Fashion

her haute couture boutique, ‘Vivienne

Incubator’ is a pop-up stall in Cairn Central

Francine’, 15 years ago in Cairns Central

and is set to become a vibrant hub of

and has become a powerhouse name in the

distinctive designs created by talented, local

industry. “It’s an innate sense from my heart

TAFE students. Ambitious designer, Grace

that keeps me going�, says Vivienne, who

Lee, runs The Fashion Hub TAFE course

from which she and her co-designers have

designers. “My goal is to teach them not to

formed an elite group: ‘Cairns Emerging

become disheartened or give up. They can

Designers’.

be successful. It’s about giving it a go and

staying true to their design ethics�.

a space will be dedicated to The Fashion

Louise Struber’s motivation is to provide

Incubator where the ‘Cairns Emerging

a platform to enable local talent to launch

Designers’ will have a chance to showcase

and grow their labels. “Cairns Central is the

and sell their labels. “It’s such a rare and

region’s premium fashion destination. This

wonderful

Grace.

project is very much community aligned.

“The fashion industry is tough to break

It’s a great synergy between fashion and

into. The Fashion Incubator will provide

locals. There is so much talent in Cairns,

aspiring designers, like me, a chance to get

but being a regional city, there are not

a foot in the door and become recognised�.

many opportunities for these designers

Drawing inspiration from her Torres Strait

to gain exposure�, explains Louise. The

Islander heritage, Grace explains that her

Fashion Hub will launch on the 6th and

designs are not solely based on trends. “I

like designs that stem from a concept�,

end of Cairns Central. Let’s support these

explains Grace.

talented designers as they showcase their

With a life-long passion for design

combined with her wealth of knowledge,

career paths.

Vivienne

opportunity�,

Francine

is

says

the

ultimate

ambassador for The Fashion Incubator.

by Josie Rose

Moments toCherish

Cairns Cen Central tral Shopping Cen Centre, tre, Cairns 4031 0933 www.suna.com.au www.suna.com.au www.facebook.com/sunashoes www.facebook.com/sunashoes

32 I CairnsLife

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 33

cair nscentral.com.au

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Business Profile

meet the

DO OCTORS OCT Dr Nasreen Akhter

Women/Men o ’s Health and chronic diseases | MBBS & FRACGP Mater and Gold Coast Hospitals as an intern and junior % # # # $ # $ #$ # $ # # # $ # than a GP to her patients but a doctor people would “just come to visit�. They may need to increase visiting hours though now that % # %# % # # # # $ # %$# # # # where she can “relax a little more�. In fact, doctor’s orders $ #% # # ! % #$ # # % # $ # #$ # # “get good sleep, eat well, drink waterr, for o get about work at home and alwaays y think about being in the present and what matters there and then�.

A childhood dream began Nasreen’s path to wearing a white coat and stethoscope. “My mum inspired me and said it was important to be independent and look after people so to do that being a doctor was the perfect profession�. Now with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor Surgery and seven years of practise her parents often ask to see their ‘family doctor’. Nasreen came to Australia in 2001 haaving v left New Zealand (Auckland and South Island) and beffor o e that her home in Bangladesh. She made Brisbane her new pad foor a while with her two children and hubby and spent every spare second studying for o her fellowship exams while working at

Dr K atherine Holzhauser

GP registrar | Adult Health, Rheumatology Interest | MBBS (Hons.)

Dr Kat grew up in Cairns. She’s also from a family of dentists and was deter mined not spend her working life “looking at saliva all daay�. y Foor many years she was actually a dentist’s assistant for o the family business and does haave great teeth and is a “strong advocate foor good dental hygiene�. 2007 was a milestone though foor this mum of two who likes %$# "! # % # ! # % # $ # # %# % # # % !# %$# friends who don’t haave children�. She graduated from JCU with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery and not just with %# # $ $ # %# # % # # $ # $ % % # achievement.

Throughout her success, six years in medicine and being part of interacting and helping her community at Cairns Base, Cairns Private and The Doctors, Kat remembers those she’s grown up treating “as a student, then med student, then n a GP P. I’ve even had people sayy, ‘I remember you, you took my blood waay back when’�. There’s no time now to get lost in nostalgia though with patients waiting and a family to look after and love. “I haave a fantastic husband of 12 years, Keith, who’s a staay-a y t-home dad right now� and cares foor Sam, two, and Charlotte, 11months. “He’s my remedy foor juggling motherhood and medicine�.

Dr Anita Va an Rooyen

Women o ’s Health, Aged Care, Palliative Care | Dip Therr, Dip Pall Med, DFSRH, DR RC COG, MR RCGP C After qualifying as a doctor torr, South African-born Anita headed for o the UK to work, traavel and paay offf her student loan but ended up staaying y for o 18 years, doing her postgraduate training and joining a practice in Cornwall (even though she tries to escape to South Africa during the winter months). The part time apiarist (bee-keeper), back in England, became a doctor for o several reasons. “I was never able to think of anything else I would rather do. It was the combination of $ ! # % # # # $ # #% # $ % $ # # # # %# # # professional soul is the “continuity of care such as getting to know children as they grow up

For the

Wellbeing

Women

of

and adult patients over time. I’ve alwaays y loved palliative care and being alongside people on the journey at the end of their lives�. From the much cooler weather in Cornwall Anita is happy to be sharing her expertise and experience with some patients in Cairns. She’s on a 12-month sabbatical and nd lo oves this corner of the world with its “incredible surrounds, places to explore every weekend, sunshine, the best sea water I haave ever swam in, summer fruit and great Australian red wine�.

The Doctors Mulgrave Road Medical Centre together with our female GPs are proud to announce we are now conducting health checks specifically designed for Women. Your consultation will include – t t t t

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Other areas that can be covered are dietary plan, wellbeing, advice on sexual health as well as family planning. Book Now and receive a “Beauty Voucher� to use at Cuties Beauty.

Call and ask for a “Women’s Wellbeing Appointment�. 40 440 444 | 318 Mulgrave Road CAIRNS QLD 4870

36 I CairnsLife

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Local Conference

Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

With its centr central ral a location, contempor contemporary rar ar y style and rrecently ecentl ecently e ly Hotel Casino is the perf perfect updatedd ffacilities, acilities a s, the Pullman Reeff Ho feect conference needs. cchoice hoice ffor oor all off yyour our conf fer erence e and eevent vent needs s. Whatever Whhatever we have yyou ou are arre planning, p have the facilities facilitie aacilities to accommodate 8 – styles. 800 guests ests in a variety off meeting or function f styles s. Our dedicated team of Event Coordinators & Banquet Supervisors together with the adaptabilityy, commitment and creativity of the hotel team will ensure that your event will be a complete success. We can cater foor any event from weddings to residential conferences with our meeting rooms, event facilities and range of truly unique function spaces. Wh hy not book our new Wharf Street Boardroom located on the o a small, sm plenty of natural light. It’s perfect for last minute meeting, casual presentation or private dinnerr. prestigious hotel and entertainment complexes in Cairns. Cairns Life Reeader’s Special. Book a new Day Delegate Package to o groups of up to 40 be held between March & December 2013 for guests. Pay foor one day audio visual and receive the second day free* *Conditions Applyy. Contract must be signed and deposit paid by 30th June u 2013. Not valid with any other offer offffer or foor events that haave Foor bookings book call 07 4030 8798 or email events@reefcasino.com.au.

Conferences & Events at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Book a new Day Delegate Package for groups of up to 40 guests Pay for one day audio visual and receive the second day FREE* For bookings call 07 4030 8798 or email events@reefcasino.com.au *Conditions Apply. Valid until December 2013

www.reefcasino.com.au

37 I CairnsLife

HOTEL CASINO

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 38

Underwood Party Party Hire strives to pr provide ovide the highest quality products products and services to the exhibition industry. industry. This objective has ear earned ned us a strong strong reputation reputation for delivering quality, quality, effective effective solutions on time and on budget. From From shell scheme and build to premium premium furniture fur niture and signage, We We constantly source source new equipment to ensur ensure e our clients have access to the latest trends. trends. And if by chance there’s there’s something not in our equipment list, our pr professional ofessional service will assist with finding it.

F ROM HU MBLE FROM HUMBLE B EGINNINGS BEGINNINGS

Ph. 07 4035 4513 | Fax. 07 4035 261 www.underwoodpartyhire.com.au underwoodpartyhire.com.au www . underwoodpartyhire

ARTS T ARTS CENTRE CENTRE

B BOB OB E EVANS VANS

THE THE D DRONES RONES

JEFF JEFF MARTIN MARTIN

LLAUNCH AUNCH FRIDAY FRIDAY 12 12 APRIL APRIL

FRIDAY FRIDAY 12 12 A APRIL PRIL

SATURDAY S ATURDAY 13 13 APRIL APRIL

SATURDAY SATURDAY 20 20 APRIL APRIL

In the 1930s, the Walters Family from Torres Strait settled in a Cairns waterfront suburb. Through old photographs and memorabilia, this exhibition tells the story of one family’s role in shaping the character of the Cairns region.

Bob Evans, is the charming alter-ego of Australian recording artist Kevin Mitchell, who also fronts alternative rock band Jebediah. Join us for an evening of endearing lyrics and melodies as he returns to Tanks, on his ‘Famiiliiar Strranger’ album tour.

Delivering passionate rock ‘n’ roll, the Tanks will provide the perfect backd kdrop for the set of blisteringly dense and powerful songs from the Drones. With a huge following in both Australia and the US they’ll be sure to ‘rock’ the Tanks!

Jeff Martin (of the Canadian band The Tea Party) returns to an intimate solo format with a special event at Tanks. He’ll be performing the best of The Tea Party plus an array of his solo offerings and a few newly found treasures!

SHOWING: 12- 29 APRIL COST:: FREE VENUE: TANK 4 TIME: 9.30AM-4.30PM WEEKDAYS / 10AM-3PM WEEKENDS

COST: $35 / $30 (CONC) (MA15+) TIME: 7.30PM

ttanksartscentre.com anksartscentre.com

COST: $30 / $25 (CONC) (MA15+) TIME: 7.30PM

A Allll ttickets ickets ssold old through through 38 I CairnsLife

COST: $30 / $25 (CONC) (MA15+) TIME: 7.30PM

tticketlink.com.au icketlink.com.au

SAGD14072 SAGD14 072

TaNK Ks

Street Cairns ns QLD 4870 100 Buchan Str eet , Cair

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:30 AM Page 39

Local Conference tic

fruit

Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club ‌a world of its own With picturesque picturresque e scener scenery, r y, dr dramatic ramatic a rrainforest ainf a foorrest e bac backdrop kdrrop o and contempor rar ar y Queenslander style cclubhouse, lubhousee, it’ ’s no surprise surpris that contemporary it’s Paradise Palms Country Tropical P ar aradise a P alms a Resort & Countr r y Club is one off T rropical opical North Queensland’ Queensland’s ’s pr premier remier e conf conference fer erence e & eevent vent vvenues. enues ess. /.-,+-*)( ',&-( %$*( #.",-*&( ! #( + #( $* ( - *( * - ( !*+-, *&( - ( , &*( ,. -( !," -. "( #& ( !, ( * ,. *)( .- ( "* ( &-+-*( ! ( - *( + -( +,). ( $.&,+ ( * ,. #*"-( +")( + ,")+"-( "+-, + ( . -." ( *( +" +" ( #( !!* &( & + *( ! ( - *+- * &- *( #**-." &( &*+-." ( , ( - ( ( * * ( +( +" ,*-( ! ( ( +")( -+. &(! (

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Your conference in... Come for the service, stay for the views

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CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 40

s U h t i w e c p e n e l S onfere &C

for

E E R F

Standard Room

$139 per night

Includes FREE conference room hire, full day delegate package and basic AV when your group spends the night at Rydges Tradewinds or Rydges Esplanade Resort

Contact us today 07 4053 0390 sales_tradewinds@rydges.com Terms & Conditions Apply, price is room only single share, max occupancy 2 adults, minimum 15 delegates, valid for bookings made and stayed between 15 March - 30 June 13, subject to availability, menu based on chefs selection

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 41

Local Conference

STYLE AND DIVERSITY OFFERED BY NOVOTEL CAIRNS OASIS RESORT

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, 122 Lake Street, Cairns QLD 4870 Novot meetings@ meetings@novotelcairnsresort.com.au | www.novotelcairnsresort.com.au P (07) 4080 1888 | F (07) 4080 1889

In November 2012 Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort attained ‘Hall of Fame’ status after being named North Queensland’s best deluxe accommodation for three consecutive years in a Tourism award category which recognises excellence in the hospitality industry. Located just 100 metres from the city centre the 314 room resort is one of the region’s most popular hotels for both business and leisure. Its spacious two hectare grounds of lush, tropical gardens and large, freeform lagoon pool complete with sand beach and swim-up bar offer a luxurious yet laid-back ambience which sets the scene for successful conferencing and events. Queensland hotels, the property of

function rooms seating from 16 up to 200 guests theatre style and a variety of unique outdoor areas with a capacity for up to 300 guests. The Mizuna Terrace surrounded by tropical gardens is perfect for up to 100 guests and the pool-side Aqua Bar caters for 200 people banquet style or up to 300 for a cocktail setting. Resort General Manager, James Murphy, said that his focus was on providing a consistent level of service and product across all areas of operation. ‘From the cleanliness of the rooms to food and beverage to conferencing technology our aim is to ensure that guests not only enjoy a luxury break when staying with us but receive optimum service delivered in a style and manner synonymous with the laid back tropical charm of Cairns,’ he said.

@ The Squadron Situated on the waterfront, overlooking Admiralty Island and Smith Creek, the Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron Restaurant, Bar and Function Room offers an affordable venue for all your function needs. Whether you are planning a Conference, Wedding, Christmas Party, Birthday Party or social gathering, @ The Squadron has catering options to satisfy the most discerning events planner. Your choice of venue includes the air-conditioned Admiralty Function Room (with adjoining veranda), Quarterdeck Restaurant or Lawn Area.

For more information visit our website: www.ccysquadron.com.au or call 4035 5115 @ The Squadron, Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 42-48 Tingira Street, PORTSMITH. 41 I CairnsLife

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 42

Wedding The Dolce sessions are here

Better photos WORKSHOP with Stuart Ireland Guaranteed Results book now for next month 6 places per course

Ph 4041 5581

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) ) &! ) & $ &! ) & $ !) ) " ) ! !) ) " ) ! ) ) " ) ! ) ) " ) ! ) $ ) ) $ ) ) ) ) )'! ) ) ) )'! % " % % " % $& $& & % & % #) ) % #) ) % $& $& & % & % #

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 43

wedding Guide

planner As a professional photographer we aim to capture your day as it happens, with a fresh and clean style of photography. Your wedding day is a day to celebrate the love that you have for each other,without interruptions, that's why we mainly remain unnoticed through the day in order to capture those special moments. Everyone deserves beautiful images and at Blueclick Photography we can offer you that, our studio is a boutique style studio without the price tag. We are excited to now also introduce something sexy and sweet to our brides. The Dolce sessions are here. These are intimate bridal photo sessions with an editorial style done at our studio . For a truly unique gift that

will bring a smile to his face think Dolce. Through listening to our customers wants, particularly brides looking for something new and exciting , Dolce intimate bridal photography is now in session. Veronica is the creator of Cairns only pin up style photography ,has extensive experience with fashion and wedding photography and an impressive reputation and passion for making women feel good about themselves. For more details visit our website and don't forget to like us on facebook for the latest news. Www.blueclickphotography.com 0414815286"

Make an appointment to visit our Studio udio di today t d and d let l t us help h you to design your stationery to suit it your special occasio occasion.

Engagement, W edding e Packages s, Birth notices, Christ Wedding Packages, Christening, Corporate Events, Anniversaries, Invitations for all occ occasions

Inside Devine Bridal, Level 1, 22 Martyn St, Cairns sales@paperpossibilities.com.au | www.paperpossibilities.com.au

Cairns Most Trusted Jeweller

43 I CairnsLife

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 44

Health

Local Health

FREE MEAL PLAN AT $49

Lose up to 10kg of ugly unwanted body fat in 21 days and look better then ever before.

Jason Maitland Body Coach Ph: 0458 731 348 | W: www.jasonmaitland.com

Family day care for the aged and people who have a disability. Monica Ward

0439 957 093 | 07 4055 1895 | www.micahrespite.com

100%?

contact the clinic today on

40 57 5566 or e-mail nyree@healthnaturally.org.au

Naturopathic Clinic

The Pier at the Marina, Cair Cairns ns Ph: 07 4031 5277 Fax: 07 4031 5377

physiot

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 45

Wellness

t herapy PHYSIOHEALTH-LET US HELP YOU WITH:

MICAH, operated by Monica Ward, offers an excellent service to the aged, frail and disabled. We provide professional and compassionate day respite to assist carers and their families. Our intention is to keep people from prematurely entering nursing home facilities and it is our aim is to help and encourage people to maintain a quality standard of independence for as long as possible. We assist our clients in the activities of daily living; showering, dressing, medication management, assistance with feeding, toileting and continence management and our wide range of creative activities ensure their personal interests are also catered for. Activities are incredibly important in helping retain fine and gross motor skills as well as physical mobility and cognitive capability. Participation in all of these activities is assessed on each individual's abilities. The premises meet OHS standards. Wheelchair access, safety rails and security give MICAH the ability to safely care for people with dementia while maintaining the home environment. Operating times: Monday to Friday 7:30am to 6pm. After hours may be available by appointment. Professionalism, dignity and respect are key factors for MICAH'S staff when providing the personal touch and the caring environment that is so important to the well being of clients and their families. My passion to work with the elderly, the disadvantaged and the disabled was possibly borne as a result of witnessing my mum care for my father who is an Incomplete Quadriplegic. Her unwavering commitment, love and devotion have helped shape my desire to ensure that people are given every opportunity to enjoy the simple luxury of that supplied in a caring family environment.

TWO LOCATIONS LOCA ATIONS 26 Toogood Toogood o Woree Road, Woree Ph: 07 4054 7577 Fax: 07 4033 6555 AND 3/193 Bruce Highway Highway,, Edmonton Ph: 07 4045 6800 Fax: 07 4045 6900

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www. mi ca hrespite.c om

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 46

Local Health

GR RU UM UMPY

OLD OL LD LD MN

Welcome to

Cairns Urology

Awareness and early detection is the key to prevention and treatment. This clinic provides a full range of Urological services with extensive equipment enabling us to perform procedures here or through the Day Surgery, whereas patients previously required hospitalisation. This is not only more convenient for our patients but is often at considerable cost savings.

98 Spence Street Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia

PO Box 7787 Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia

P (07) 4041 0700 F (07) 4041 4007 info@cairns-urology.com.au http://www.cairns-urology.com.au/

As

women

grow

older

they

ter m memory.

man will require regular blood

reach a point in their lives called

Physical

menopause when their hor mone

weakness, muscle and joint pains,

production

decreases

symptoms

consist

of

test foollow-ups including prostate ! ! !

rapidly

thinning of bones (Osteoporosis),

It is important to note that this is

leading to a number of symptoms

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! !

and consideration of

of

muscle

of hor mone and that the doses

increased

given to replace testosterone will

hor mone

replacement.

mass

the

skin,

and

reduced

strength,

Men also haave a decrease in their

abdominal girth and obesity, breast

not haave similar effffects to massive

hor mone levels which is more

enlargement and reduced body and

doses of testosterone sometimes

gradual from their peak in their

facial hair.

taken to markedly increase muscle

20’s and 30’s. The male hor mone

Sexual symptoms involve reduced

bulk

as mayy be used by some

testosterone is produced in the

libido (desire), erectile dysfunction

body builders. It is important that

testicles and leaks into the blood

and disturbances of ejacula j tion.

the dosage is personalised and

stream where it is carried through

!

!

monitored. So called “testosterone

the circulation to haave its efffect.

diagnosed by taking a full history

rage� appears to only occur in men

Male hor mone levels can actually

and

decrease

by

1-2%

per

!

examination

and

!

blood

in whom extreme doses haave been

year.

tests including hor mone levels

taken.

Approximately 10% of men aged

measured on two separate day days in

Testosterone

40-60 and 30% of men aged 60-

the mor ning when the level is at

tur n “grumpy old men� into “nice

#"!

its highest. It is also necessary to

guys�.

! ! !

hor mone levels.

haave a prostate check as if there is

This is often accompanied by an

a possibility of prostate cancer then

increase in weight particularly fat

hor mone replacement mayy worsen

around the abdomen. It is rather

the situation. In fact, reducing

like the chicken and the egg as

testosterone levels is one method of

! ! ! ! ! !

treatment foor prostate cancer.

decrease in hor mone levels can

! ! ! ! ! ! !

lead to an increase in weight, the

“nor mal “ hor mone levels it is

increase in weight can also lead to

impossible to know what the level

hor mones being taken up in the fat

oe used to be at its peak and thereffor

and therefor o e being less effe f ctive.

what the relative reduction might

The symptoms that are likely to

now be.

develop from a low hor mone level

! ! ! !

are psychological, physical and

treated with replacement using

sexual.

capsules, skin patches, creams and

Psychological

symptoms

maay

gels and injections. There is a new

consist of

tiredness, depressed

underar m for o mulation which is

mood,

irritability,

poor po

applied like a deodorant would

concentration and reduce short

be. If treatment is given then the

46 I CairnsLife

replacement

may

DR NEIL GORDON Urrologis o t Urrologica o l Surrgeon g at Caairns Urrolog o gyy M.B.B B.S . (Melbb) | F.R. .R.C.S (Glaasg) s F.R.C.S .R Edd | F.R.A.C.S., .R F.I.C.S .II

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:31 AM Page 47

Test of! Time Special Feature

Words Josie Rose

Bruce Mellick Optometrist

Even after 40 years as a prominent Cairns Optometrist, Bruce Mellick has not lost sight of his passion, or of his goal- to improve lives through rectifying precious eyesight. Intrigued by optometry and with a zest for fashion, Bruce has remained at the forefront of optometry and on-trend fashion frames since 1974. Bruce Mellick Optometry offers a wide range of men’s and women’s quality frames, sunglasses and spectacles and has gained a reputation throughout North Queensland for outstanding quality and personal service. Bruce Mellick Optometry has grown and expanded over its many years in Cairns, resulting in a team of 7 highly qualified technicians working alongside Bruce Mellick, including associate Behavioural Optometrist Kelcey Hala, ensuring the ongoing success of his service. Wanting to provide clients and staff with a warm and

comfortable environment, Bruce Mellick Optometry operates from a renovated Queenslander on Abbott Street, impressively transformed into part boutique and part clinic. When Bruce first entered the optometry industry, the negative stigma associated with wearing glasses was beginning to change; frames were becoming fashionable. “Optometry allowed me to continue to explore my love of fashion as well as improving the quality of lives. We source and sell only value-for-money frames such as Fendi, Guess, Seiko, Jaguar, Lindberg, Emilio Pucci, Mako, Ted Baker, Dilem and Chopard among other desirable brands”. With regulations and technology constantly evolving, Bruce ensures his teams’ knowledge remains current and up-to-date. “We regularly travel throughout Australia and overseas attending training sessions

47 I CairnsLife

and seminars. We pride ourselves on our high standard of industry knowledge, cutting-edge equipment and revolutionary procedures”. Not only does Bruce Mellick Optometry offer a wide range of fashionable frames, they also offer pre and post-surgery care to patients of refractive laser surgeons, as well as specialising in an alternative treatment to invasive eye surgery. “We specialise in contact lenses which patients wear overnight. This treatment is available to suitable candidates and gradually remoulds the surface of the eye, resulting in improved vision without glasses. This treatment is also suitable for children as it slows the rate of myopia”. After 40 successful years in business, Bruce Mellick Optometry has faced an assortment of challenges but has continued to endure. “Like all small business, we were challenged by how to combat rising costs due to changes in the economy, but we continually strive to source high quality products at reasonable prices”. With precedence on customer satisfaction, Bruce and his team ensure that client’s individual needs are consistently met and exceeded. “It’s not just about enhancing vision- it’s also about enhancing appearances and boosting confidence- we provide the total service and value the ongoing trust and loyalty of our clientele”.

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The Business-Building “The building was purchased, a tenant was needed but when things didn’t work out with our original partner we had a fitness centre to run with no experience”. That was March 2001 when opportunity knocked. And, there was no warm up. Manager/Director of Genesis Fitness Prue Kellahan and her team may not have been ready for it but in time with a tonne of hard work, challenges and changes it would be one of the greatest chances they ever embraced. “Each year we gained more experience and realised Cairns lacked varied health and fitness facilities as it grew”, says Prue. Perhaps that meant expanding. “When the manager of Stockland at the time called and offered us the old Harris Scarf site we laughed and said ‘no’”. But Prue remembers all too well it was some sobering words he uttered during that phone call that thrust Genesis into opening its second centre. “The manager said to us, ‘if you aren’t going to take the space we’ll find another health centre who will’”. The first years were tough. Genesis Cairns were experienced in business but beginners in the fitness industry. What made sense though to these established entrepreneurs “after analysing Bunnings, Coles and Woolworths was that smaller hardware and corner convenience stores were being swallowed up by the big players; something inevitable in our industry”, says Prue. So, they joined the Genesis Fitness franchise. Genesis Cairns began pumping life into town introducing prechoreographed Les Mills Group Fitness Classes that “to this day remain the heart beat of Lake Street and Stockland”. Danni Bissett runs a successful department there. So much so, the 10-year employee wasn’t going to let her RPM class down just to be in a photo shoot for this article. “There is no way I’m going to cancel a class”, she told Prue. “The show must go on!”, said Danni. In fact, with every challenge this catch phrase has motivated the Genesis crew to ensure business operates effectively in every capacity, even if its catering for each club member’s taste in music. “Members ages are so varied that we find it hard to cater to all at the same time”, adds Prue. “Some like doof doof music, others like rock n roll and let’s not even talk about the volume”, she chuckles. But sometimes challenges of being in business have pushed the team to what they may’ve thought was their limit, like when openings of clubs clashed. When Genesis opened Southside “it was delayed every step of the way. We had problems with planning, electricity supply, equipment and approved finance due to the GFC. You name it we faced it, but overcame all these hiccups with the help of our fantastic Southside landlords”, says Prue. Redlynch on the other hand was not delayed, it was early and “like a freight train they collided. It’s hard enough setting up one business from scratch let alone two at the same time. Staff had to be hired and trained, we needed marketing strategies for two different demographics and the list goes on”. Now, a postic note on the Genesis fridge says; never open two businesses at the same time. That postic note also says, prepare for the unexpected. A fitness revolution, known as 24/7, hit Townsville and was about to takeover Cairns. “With these ‘chain’ centres you get what you pay for which is very little”, reaffirms

Prue. So in 2012, which was meant to be a year to consolidate and concentrate on Genesis’ four centres, they counter-acted and in record time opened “two 24/7 smaller model-clubs where members can train whenever they want”. And, Smithfield 24/7 is another. Bracing itself for a muchanticipated launch the original building was completely demolished over a weekend. “We sent an email out Friday afternoon to our staff asking for helpers and hordes turned up over the Saturday/Sunday to ready the site for the building contractors. It was a humbling experience to think they would give up their time to hammer out walls and pick up building rubble until it was done. Again, this just shows the strength and commitment of the people we have working with us”, Prue reinforces with pride. In 2012 Genesis was again presented with opportunity; gifted two flights

48 I CairnsLife

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Book of Genesis

Test of! Time

GENESIS FITNESS TEST OF TIME TIPS: Never think you know more than anyone else Don’t whinge about a problem. Find the solution There are no short cuts. You simply have to work hard Genesis Fitness Manager/Director: Prue Kellahan 113 Lake St, Cairns 4041 2290 www.genesisfitness.com.au

and tickets by the Genesis Fitness Franchisor to IRHSA, the largest fitness convention in the US. After seeing the latest trends first-hand, they came back, capitalised on the overseas experience and set up their first Functional Training Centre with the assistance of “our amazing landlord. It isn’t airconditioned but grungy, cutting edge fitness”, Prue calls it. “It’s small group personal training done at your own pace and a great change for any one sick of slogging it out in the other centres”. Right now on the agenda is the Smithfield launch and Lake Street renovation and expansion and once they’re completed there are plans to cater for children and the aging population. Don’t forget that year of consolidation as well, unless there’s a convention to attend to keep everyone engaged in exercise which doesn’t take too much when you stop and look at

who’s running the show; 87 staff across, soon to be, eight centres. “Our success is due to our staff. We can’t operate without trusting and respecting them 100%. They look after our biggest asset, our members”, says Prue. “Some staff have been with us since day dot and now hold management positions. We’re proud of this and will always promote from within first”. Longevity is also what Genesis can take pride in.“Our motto is, fall down six times, stand up seven times. We’ve had our dark days, lost a lot, gained a lot but are still standing and continuing to change lives one step at a time while aspiring to be Cairns’ one-stop fitness and health shop. Australia needs this with the growing apathy for fitness. Exercise is medicine and should be prescribed to everyone”. Cairns couldn’t ask for better motivation to live a long, active and healthy life.

49 I CairnsLife

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FEEL ALIVE NUTRITION NEW YEAR NEW YOU FREE BODY ANALYSIS USUALLY $75... Find out metabolic age, bodyfat %, muscle mass and more weightloss. INCREASED ENERGY and sports performance products

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50 I CairnsLife

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Food & Wine

Barman

of the month

Salt House Cocktail of the month Orange Delight Grilled orange and caramelised cinnamon sugar with apple slithers,Shaken with don julio reposado tequila and Nardini aquivite topped with fanta Glass rimmed chilli salt with and garnished with apple slice

NAME? Joseph Winika (Salt House Cocktail Bartender) HOW OLD ARE YOU? 21‌ And a bit ;) Where were you born? Christchurch Women’s Hospital; Christchurch, New Zealand. ARE YOU SINGLE OR LOOKING TO MINGLE? Enjoying the single life at the moment but consider any girl who can cook Mi Goreng noodles better than me. She must also have the patience of a saint. HOW DID YOU GET INTO HOSPITALITY? Took a trip to Woolongong to work in one of the pubs my cousin was running at the time. Loved it and the rest is history. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST COCKTAIL CREATION? It was one I made up myself. Squashed lemons and limes with raspberry cordial, mango liqueur, strawberry liqueur, pineapple juice and orange juice shaken and poured into a schooner glass. I was so proud of it at the time (Hahaha!) WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WEIRD, WACKY AND WONDERFUL CREATIONS? Art, nature, fashion, mood, food, shapes. All these things have contributed to what ends up in the glass. WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO? WHY? All the people I’ve ever worked with. In one way or another they showed me how to (or how not to) get better at this thing they call bartending. IF CARS WERE COCKTAILS WHICH ONE WOULD YOU DRINK? AND WHY?

Hmm‌ Gee. I think I would ride the double Bacardi and coke-mobile because it would be able to get you where you wanna go‌ Real quick! WHAT INGREDIENT CAN NO COCKTAIL LIVE WITHOUT? WHY? powder. Had a glass of powdered milk before? Not the same as normal milk is it ha! WHAT IS THE CRAZIEST INGREDIENT YOU HAVE EVER USED OR SEEN USED IN A COCKTAIL? I’ve seen a guy put cigar ash in his double bourbon and coke by accident and guzzle it down. Also, I’ve seen an olden day washing machine used to mix up some punch! SHAKEN OR STIRRED? Depends on the situation I’ve gotten myself into,. HAVE YOU WON ANY AWARDS FOR BARTENDING OR COCKTAIL MAKING? IF SO WHAT ARE THEY? Nah‌ Haven’t won anything yet but I’ve been nominated for Australian Bartender Magazine “Bartender of the Yearâ€? award for the last couple of years. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT SALT HOUSE? I get my staff meal for free. And the awesome people I get to work with and the awesome venue I get to work in! Living the life! WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT MAKING COCKTAILS? Making people happy :) WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS TIME?? In the mirror Xx.

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Social Pics

A Night with Sam Powers

CBWC N Networkin t kingg Networking LLuncheons Luncheon h ns

The CBWC networking luncheons have been crafted to ensure that you have “serious fun, while doing serious business�. Ticket includes:

W Welcome elcome drink at 6 Degrees Bar and Lounge

2 course sumptuous luncheon

Business Card Draw

Presentation by guest speaker

Book online at www.cbwc.org.au www.cbwc.org.au next to

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:34 AM Page 53

Create a memory Create memorry for life’s life’’s precious precious moments.

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Food & Wine

Signature L u n c h

D i s h

S h ar e t h e lo v e with a n u m a n b a n q uets h an r a m a 3 9 .5 p p | s it a 49.5pp h aann u m a n 6 2 . 0pp beverage package available upon rrequest equest

av aila b l e f o r lu nch o r d i n n e r d a ily f o r gr oups of 6 or more

Bento Box $15 Gluten free-dairy free-vegetarian and vegan options available. Menu changes each day.

Reservations essential phone 40526786 Lobby level Hilton Cairns

Awaken your senses to the Thai, Indian and Nonya delights of celebrity chef Jimmy Shu’s Hanuman restaurant at the Hilton Cairns hotel. A visit to Hanuman Cairns will tantalise all the senses before wowing the taste buds as only Hanuman can. The search for a quality barramundi supplier led Jimmy to Darwin, where he was 3210/../-,+*,)(/,'&%$3)*,%#-,0%#"/,! ,10!-& /, %#-,)(/,"0/%), .(3#" , 3)/-, by the opportunity to share his love of food with the territory, Hanuman opened in Darwin in 1992. The restaurant’s success led to the opening of Hanuman Restaurants in Alice Springs in 2001 and Cairns in 2008. Hanuman Cairns pairs a bold and contemporary dining atmosphere with an %&)(/#)3 ,%#-, !$!0 &$,2/#&,)!,-/$3 /0,%,(!$3.)3 ,-3#3#",/ 1/03/# /,$3 /,#!,!)(/0 , /#! #/-, !0,(3.,1%..3!#, !0, 0/.(,10!-& /,%#-,&#3'&/, % !&0. , 322*,)0% /$., )(0!&"(, !&)( %.), .3%, .// 3#", 3#.130%)3!#, %#-, 3#"0/-3/#)., (3 (, (/, &./., )!, 3# &/# /,)(/,2%#*,-3.(/., %#&2%#, 0/%)/ , Overlooking Trinity Inlet, Hanuman Restaurant is decorated in rich, dark tones complemented by authentic ceramics collected from throughout south-east Asia, including intricate vintage opium pipes and lanterns made from bamboo birdcages. %#&2%#, ! /0., %#, !11!0)&#3)*, )!, / 1/03/# /, )(/, 2%#*, )%.)/. , % !&0., %#-, .13 /.,! , .3% , &/.).,%0/,/# !&0%"/-,)!,/ 1$!0/,)(/./, % !&0.,3#,%, %03/)*,! , dishes and to savour the perfect balance each dish creates with the other. Chefs are sought from India, Thailand and Malaysia to bring forth the authentic fusions of Thai, Indian and Nonya in the menu. % /,*!&,/ 1/03/# /-,%, %#&2%#,+%#'&/),!0,)03/-,)(/,-/$3 3!&., , /#)!, ! , 3.3),)(/, %#&2%#, % /+!! ,1%"/, !0,-%3$*, /#)!, ! ,.1/ 3%$.,%#-,0/"&$%0, Hanuman updates. &# (,3.,./0 /-, ,!#, // -%*.,%#-,-3##/0,3.,./0 /-, 0!2, ,)3$$, late daily.

Reservations essential, Phone 4052 6786. Lobby level, Hilton Cairns

54 I CairnsLife

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Food & Wine

Chef % '% $

Name? Nathan Johnson

How long have you been a chef for? -,+*)('&% )$% #'"!,+! % % + '!% +% % '+!% + !'$ ) ' )

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Food & Wine

i ine W

off the o the m month o nt h

JJARAMAN A ARAMAN

Pinot Noir 2008

REGION: Adelaide Hills & Yaarra Vaalley

DESCRIPTION Ripe cherry and lifted violet nuances of the Adelaide Hills inter mingle with the red berry fruit and earth hy

FOOD TYPE: Italian, Vegetarian eegetari Duck/Game, PâtÊs Antipasto, Cheese, Italian, Pasta Lamb, Spanish Chicken, East Asian

INTERNATIONAL PARMA MONTH If you love chicken Parma’s you will love this...your choice of International toppings for only $19.90 seven days a week!!

108 Grafton St, Cairns | Ph: 4031 6661

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Food & Wine

Signature Dish

NICK’S SWISS-ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Lunch: Fri-Sun 11.30am - 3.00pm Dinner: Tues-Sun 5.30pm - 11.00pm 33 Gillies Hwy, Yungaburra

w w w.n w .n ic k ssrr e staurant.com.au 4095 3330

Nick’s Restaurant is nestled in the lush green countryside of the Atherton Tablelands, just one-hour from Cairns. Their experienced team uses only the freshest local produce along with herbs and vegetables from their sustainable organic gardens to create exquisite mouth-watering dishes for the new a la Carte menu. Come along with friends for a sitdown dinner, prop up the Yodeller’s Bar with a cocktail or two, or just enjoy coffee and cakes in the early afternoon. Alternatively, drop in to the Yungaburra Pizzeria for some awardwinning authentic Italian pizzas from an expert Italian Pizzaiolo. Behind the Yodeller’s Bar, there is a wide variety of Australian and imported beers, a great selection of wines from around the globe and a scintillating cocktail list just waiting to be explored. Nick’s has become an iconic, must-see restaurant for tourists and travelers and when asked, Nick and Gina say “Our success over the last 27 years is because we listen to our customers and loyal staff, take their suggestions onboard, and it works!� While at Nick’s, try head chef Shayne Silver’s signature Morganbury sirloin steak, cut from cattle reared on the volcanic Atherton Tablelands

Lunch: Fri-Sun 11.30am - 3.00pm Dinner: Tues-Sun 5.00pm - 10.00pm

#"! ! #! ! " ! # "# ! ! #! ! #!# ! ! " ! ! with a choice of chef ’s homemade sauces, a side of seasonal Tableland

33 Gillies Hwy, Yungaburra

# ! ! " ! ! ! "# #" !" !# # " ! ! #

33 Gillies Hwy, Yungaburra www.nicksrestaurant.com.au 07 4095 3330

www.. y u n g ab u r r a p i z z e r i a . c o m. a u www

4095 3577 58 I CairnsLife

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Test of! Time

Craig Squire

embraced by locals and visitors alike Trading from the corner Sheridan and Shield Streets for 19 years, Ochre Restaurant and Catering has become a landmark of the Cairns’ CBD. Surviving the impacts of SARS, 911, airline changes, the GFC and the high Australian dollar, it has emerged as an award winning restaurant and catering business. Owner, executive chef and managing director, Craig Squire says that after a shaky beginning, the restaurant is now embraced by locals and visitors alike. Starting his career at the Adelaide Festival Centre, Craig says it was a wonderful time to be an apprentice chef. “They’d just opened a new trade school with quality lecturers from overseas and we were fortunate

to have members of the royal family and other distinguished people coming through.” From there he travelled around the country and overseas perfecting his craft, which again lead to him being in the right place at the right time. “A new wave of cuisine called ‘English Modern’ was happening while I was in London, with people like Marco Pierre White and Gordon Ramsey at the forefront.” On his return to Adelaide, Craig and a group of friends opened The Red Ochre Grill in 1992. With a familiar customer-base and the support of the media, the restaurant’s success motivated them to open up a second location in Cairns two years later. “The result was literally chalk and

cheese,” Craig says. “We didn’t know anyone in Cairns and the locals tended to think it was a tourist gimmick.” In fact, it wasn’t until five years later when the business finally got a handle on tourism marketing that they finally broke even. After eventually breaking ties with the franchise, the restaurant was later rebranded Ochre Restaurant and Catering. And as the catering arm grew, it in turn introduced more locals to the restaurant. “Local business is now at least half our restaurant turnover,” Craig says. “It’s a testament to time – we’ve been here so long they finally trust us,” he laughs. Now with a team of 20, he says his relationship with staff is very much a recipe of the business’s

59 I CairnsLife

success. “You need to create the right environment and culture. It’s important to be professional but I’ve also learnt over time to give people some rope.” Recognising the importance of diversifying, Craig together with his former Head chef Nicole Griggs has recently established Tropic Spirit Catering, a new business catering to Daily Reef Boats. He also works behind the scenes with bodies such as TTNQ, The Convention Centre, Ports North and Taste Paradise’ – an organisation aimed at promoting and supporting local produce. “It’s not just about your core business,” he says. “To succeed you have to be all things to all people.”

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Restaurant Review Hanuman Restaurant brings you the most elegant and relaxing dining experience Cairns has to offer. Nestled inside the renowned Hilton Cairns, Hanuman is situated in a prime location overlooking the Trinity Inlet. The warm, dark tones created by the dim romantic lighting provide a humble and welcoming arrival. Instantly, you are greeted by beautiful aromas that tantalize your senses. Welcomed firstly by the famous Hanuman tasting plate, the decadent sight sent our stomachs growling. With a selection of appetizing entrées there was something to satisfy all cravings. Having only just begun our dining experience the impression was delightful. Each separate element was paired with a flavoursome dipping sauce creating an explosion of flavours in our mouths. The staff were prompt and polite, attending to our every need. It wasn’t until we were presented with our Main dishes did we experience the full culture and flavours that is Hanuman. A silky Butter Chicken, a Rich Red Curry of Duck, an eye-opening Thai Crispy Whole Fish and a delicate Hanuman Prawns. The infused flavours of each dish sent our taste buds to Thailand. All this served alongside a crisp, chilled glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Four very full stomachs were left feeling extremely satisfied and nourished. We were then presented with the best Crème Brulee I have ever tasted! Not to mention a smooth white chocolate & passion fruit mousse and a flourless chocolate cake. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable dining experience. I highly recommend you dine at Hanuman, a combination of unfaultable food, excellent service and great company.

Modern Moroccan and Middle Eastern Restaurant open Mon- Fri from 5pm Sat - Sun 11am

07 4051 3737 www.meccabah.net/cairns 60 I CairnsLife

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Food & Wine

Hanumans enjoy the view & food at

boardwalk cafe breakfast, lunch or dinner at Cairns’ favourite cafe on the waterfront

SPECIAL DAILY $15 LUNCHTIME licensed cafe/restaurant

12

$

MOVIE TICKETS WITH EVERY MAIN MEAL PURCHASED

Enjoy a family dinner at La Porchetta and get discounted movie tickets for just $12.00 with every meal pur chased. Condditions i apply apply *Conditions

The Pier at the Marina | 40315496

108 Grafton St, Cair Cairns ns | Ph: 4031 6661

&%$#"!$ ! ! % !" #" ! $ ! # $#" ! ! %

" % !$"" "! " " ! $ $" "! $ ! " $ % #" ! ! # % " $" ! $ " "

61 I CairnsLife

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f o t s e T Time!

Special Feature

Villa Romana Trattoria If you’re a local, you know the name ‘Villa Romana’- and with good reason. Not only has the trattoria- owned by George and Helen Papagelou- remained in the same prime location on the Esplanade for 14 years, it has become famous for its Italian-Mediterranean cuisine, breathtaking views and friendly atmosphere- although gaining a reputation such as this doesn’t happen overnight. According to George, it takes hard work, dedication and above all else, passion. Words Josie Rose George was born in Greece and spent many years in Melbourne, eventually relocating to Cairns in 1990. “When I first arrived, I remember there being only 2 or 3 restaurants”. As a savvy businessman and with vast experience in the hospitality industry, George established Villa Romana in 1999. His trattoria quickly gained a reputation for its use of fresh produce, relaxed vibe and waterfront views, and 14 years later has established itself as a prominent part of the Esplanade landscape. George believes that producing consistently good food, providing friendly service and ongoing support of the local community are the reasons for Villa Romana’s continuing popularity. But George has faced challenges. “The Global Financial Crisis really affected us, and it still is. It’s often tempting to give up when times get tough but I am too passionate about my customers and my restaurant so I just keep going”. George’s exceptional rapport with locals and diners results in customers providing regular and valuable feedback. Another reason George feels his venture has remained a permanent fixture in Cairns is due to his loyal staff. “A

restaurant is only as good as its staff. Many of my staff members have been with me for years, such as Alice who has been here for 24 years, Roberto, Lindsay, Fernanda, and I have to thank my brother, Paul, for his great contribution as former manager”, says George. “Of course, I also have to mention Daniele, the current manager and backbone of Villa Romana for the past 11 years. “The time has passed by quickly,” says Daniele. “If you are happy somewhere, why change that”. Daniele shares George’s passion for exceptional food and service. “The best compliment is repeat business. We see locals returning on a weekly basis because we offer consistently good food, an unbeatable view, personality and a great atmosphere. We are all happy to come to work and the customers see and feel that”. With extensive renovations having recently taken place and a new head chef on board, George says the future is looking bright and has no plans of slowing down any time soon. “I’ll probably never retire. I can do that when I’m dead. This is my passion”. With a devoted and loyal staff, strong community ties and the determination to provide a

supreme dining experience, it’s not hard to see why Villa Romana has remained one of the busiest restaurants in Cairns. “If my customers are happy, I am happy. We’re here to provide good service, great food and an unsurpassed atmosphere”, says George. Villa Romana head chef: Alessandro Delfanti Villa Romana’s new head chef is Italian-born Alessandro Delfanti whose passion for cooking was realised at the age of 7. “I began cooking gnocchi with my nonna. I always knew I wanted to become a chef- it was my calling”. At 14, Alessandro got his first cooking job and went on to chef in restaurants all over the world including Istanbul, Dubai, the Caribbean, Italy, Sydney, Melbourne, Shanghai, Malaysia and Singapore. Before arriving in Cairns, this avid chef was working for Barilla Pasta running a cooking school and presenting live demonstrations at prestigious events such as the Food and Wine Festival and Better Homes and Gardens, and considers a highlight to be working with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. “I worked in his restaurants for months at a time and assisted him at the opening of an exclusive 5 star

62 I CairnsLife

resort. It gave me the opportunity to learn from a true business genius”. In October 2012, tired of his hectic travel schedule and in search of a stable lifestyle for his young family, Alessandro arrived in Cairns. “As soon as I met George I knew I wanted to work at Villa Romana. Cairns is beautiful and I love the community vibe, plus, Villa Romana is a well-established restaurant with a great reputation”. Impressed by the locally sourced produce and opportunity to support local businesses, Alessandro wholeheartedly accepted the position. “I aim to reinforce the focus on the original Italian trattoria by producing honest , rustic, traditional food like my grandmother used to cook”, say Alessandro. “Villa Romana has had a strong identity for 14 years and I think its success is due to the unique balance between that identity and its ability to cater to local demands. George has never compromised his beliefs, good food or customer relationships”. Alessandro says he feels honoured to be in the head chef position of such a well-loved venue and looks forward to becoming as much a part of Cairns as Villa Romana itself.

Owner

New Head Chef Alessandro Delfanti

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George Papagelou 62 I CairnsLife

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TaNK Ks

What’sOn!

ARTS RTS T A CENTRE C ENTRE

PLAYING PLAYING THIS THIS MONTH MONTH

WAY OUT WEST INTERVIEW

JAZZ UP NORTH SERIES 2013 By Andrew Masterson

64 I CairnsLife

WAY W AY O OUT UT W WEST EST – FFRIDAY RIDAY 2266 A APRIL PRIL Winners of the 2009 Bell Award for ‘Best Australian Jazz Ensemble’, Melbourne favourites Way Out West bring their unique and alluring sound combining Asian, African and jazz inuences to Tanks. Joining forces with Sydney based koto virtuoso, Satsuki Odamura, this is a show that will surely delight all jazz lovers. COST: $35 / $30 (CONC) (PG) SHOW: 7.30PM – FULLY SEATED TIX: THROUGH TICKETLINK 1300 855 835

-53)# s !243 s #/--5.)49 s %6%.43 s #5,452% 53)# s !243 s #/--5.)4 9 s %6%.43 s #5,452%

ttanksartscentre.com anksartscentre.com

SAGD14071 SAGD14 071

Having been asked what he thinks of Tanks Arts Centre, Peter Knight – Melbourne-based jazz trumpeter, composer and leader of the Way Out West ensemble – falls silent. He is thinking, choosing his words carefully. Finally, he answers: “I thought about saying it’s my favourite venue anywhere in the world,� .-,+*)+(,'&%$,$.*$#+,*,$"%!., * , - $* ), $#+," -," ,$.-,$" , -,! !+, # -,- - , played. The people at Tanks have nurtured a fantastic audience. It’s not the sort of thing you immediately associate with far northern Australia, but Cairns audiences have a real sense of warmth, a sense of feeling – a genuine culture of listening and engagement.� This is high praise indeed from a jazz player with a stellar reputation and who every year plays stages at festivals and big venues around the world. Already in 2013 he has performed – either as a soloist or an ensemble member – in Melbourne, Tokyo, Kyoto, Brooklyn, Seattle, San Francisco and Vancouver. All in all, indeed, it’s shaping up as a big year for him. In January he discovered that his latest solo album, ‘Fish Boast of Fishing’, had won a prestigious Bell Jazz Award, and a week or so after that he was announced as the new Artistic Director of the Australian Art Orchestra, replacing the previous incumbent, Paul Grabowsky. It’s an appointment about which he is very excited, not least because it affords him additional opportunities to work with Way Out West’s latest recruit – Sydney based muso Satsuki Odamura, a virtuoso player of the koto, a 13-stringed classical Japanese instrument. Ms Odamura will be making her Cairns debut when she joins Mr Knight and his colleagues on stage on April 26. “It’s always fantastic to collaborate with somebody new,� explains Peter. “We’d heard she was an extraordinary player and so basically I just decided to cold call her a few months ago and ask her out of the blue if she’d be interested in " !, $.,%+," ,*, " - $ , * ! )(,+.-,+* ,)-+(,* ,+"" , - , " , ) -), to Melbourne to meet us. It was incredibly easy – it was like we’d been playing together for years. She had really thought about things before she entered the room, and lots of well-developed ideas.� Ms Odamura’s thoughtful approach to music dovetails well with that of Mr Knight, who blends jazz structures and world music styles with inspiration drawn " $- , " ,$.-, " ," , $- *$% - , , * $ % * (,.-, $-+,$.-, - * $ ), " - *+-, US writer E. E. Cummings (1894-1962) and the Italian novelist Italo Calvino

,*+, -, %- -+ “It’s not about trying to translate their works into music,� he explains. “It’s more that their writing tends to put me in a particular creative space. It’s a sort of cross+- +" ), %- - , .-,$. !, " , -, $., , , % !+, +,$.*$,.-, " +, $., abstraction a lot. His writing might not perhaps reveal an explicit meaning, but his words in combination gives a feeling, a sensation – it evokes a response. For me, I like to explore something similar. I like to use abstract sounds, and evoke a response to them. My music is broad and eclectic. I think it started as jazz, but it now shows much more experimental forms. It’s not much like straight jazz any more: it’s more like a sort of noise, in a way – something much more textural.� But it’s a beautiful noise, of course, as many an audience and critic around the globe will attest. And it’s a new noise, too, now, with Ms Odamura joining Mr Knight, Sri Lankan-born percussionist Ray Pereira and the rest of the Way Out West crew. And for Cairns jazz fans, of course, it’s a noise not to be missed. Way Out West perform at Tanks Arts Centre on Friday April 26. For more information, please visit www.tanksartscentre.com

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Test of! Time

Their Million Dollar Smile “You only ever heard of writing a million dollar life policy. But I got my first one in ’82. I walked out, got in the car, drove down the road and let out, ‘yesss’!”.

They didn’t make a decision that

From renting a room with one desk

FOWLER’S GROUP TEST

night but when I left they gave me

in Abbott Street’s MLC building

OF TIME TIPS:

a coral trout and half a dozen

“paying a secretary 100 a week” in

Don’t wring your hands and say it’s

marzipan dates which convinced

’75, Bob turned long nights into

the end of the world because, you

my folks I could at least feed the

lunches with a new kind of client;

know, it probably will be. Bad times

family”, laughs Bob.

enterprise. He also learnt from

pass. So, always stay positive.

With one supportive partner and

experts whether it was Alex

Stay in touch with clients to

Bob was 37 and a long way from

three more little tikes, Brett, Paul

McKenzie’s time management,

maintain trust and at all times

starting out with MLC straight

and Natalie, Bob toiled afterhours

employment super from MLC’s

listen to what they’re saying.

after school. He was King Pin. But

visiting families from Cairns to

Raleigh “the gun” Jack or business

it’s a yarn and half how he got

Weipa. “In my first year I was one

planners with their 80% income

Fowler’s Group

there and where he is today and it

of quickest to reach a million

from 20% of clients principle. “I

Owner/Principal: Bob Fowler

all started with some fresh fish.

dollars. I was competitive but

did the sums and we were spot on”.

111 Lake St, Cairns

In ’71 Bob left Brisbane for Cairns

believed in what I was doing”.

So Bob got serious; planned,

4051 6511 / 1300 855 849

just after he and Jill got married; a

Even

restructured,

www.fowlersgroup.com.au

good omen when baby Jason

Underwriter’s Association (now

insurance and investment and

arrived nine months later. After

AFA), was an “eye opener because

“rewards started immediately”. He

Book: 40 Things We’ve Learnt in 40

nine years with MLC and 18

they all shared ideas with the

left MLC, got licensed, bought an

Years of Business – Fowler’s Group. Due

months as their far north District

opposition”. The same with the

IBM-XT and “blew the bastard up

out late April.

Manager, Bob pulled the pin

International

Dollar

in 18 months”. Jason, Paul and

“which my parents thought was

Round Table where Bob’s 38 year-

Horny (Brett’s mate) joined and, to

daring” and on August 2, 1972

million dollar membership status

stay in the game, all four hung a

started Bob Fowler Insurances as

remains strong. “The people who

Diploma of Financial Planning up

an

run it, do it and we help each

at a new Spence St premises by

other”.

1995.

MLC

agent.

“My

first

appointment was in Caravonica.

members

of

Million

the

Life

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refocused

on

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1963 | 2013

68 I CairnsLife

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Travel!

Wheere th Whe Wh hee wi wild ild thi ild hings hings

play pla play

How do you capture the essence of Africa on paper without using up every clichĂŠ in the book? No other continent comes close to it fo or sca scale, variety and pure, raaw impact. It’s an incredibly diverse destination, supporting a wide range of distinct and rare wildlife in its many varied landscapes. Let’s haave a look at the must see’s the “deepest, darkestâ€? continent has as to offffer. My number one - Ngorongoro Craterr. It’s an ancient volcanic crater which is some 20km wide. Wit i h a per manent water and pasture source, the crater is host to almost every species of African animal. This is prime game viewing country, where you’re sure to see the Big Five in all their glory, and their smaller neighbours too. If you only visit one place in Africa, then it has to be here. Whilst in Tanzania why not do a safari in the Serengeti, the country’s most famous national park. It is known the world over for o its outstanding wildlife. The ecosystem actually extends beyond the borders of the park to include other conservation areas and reserves including the famous Masai Mara in Keenya. This giant area makes it possible fo or that most impressive of natural events, the Great Migrations, to take place. Millions of wildebeest, zebra and other animals complete their circulatory migration each yearr, follo oll wing the rains in search of greener pastures. Tanzania also hosts the highest free standing mountain in the world, Mt Kilimanjaro which is also the highest peak in Africa. An enor mous volcano that began for o ming millions of years ago, two of its peaks are extinct, but Kibo is dor mant and could erupt again. It is known as one of the highest mountains that adventure seekers can climb, without advanced mountain climbing equipment or previous experience of such heights. Altitude sickness is still a major problem, so it is not for o the feint hearted. If it is wildlife you are chasing, then you can’t go past the Okaavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta. The waters are teeming with life and studded with exotic islands. Produced by months the delta swells to two to three times its regular size, drawing animals from miles around, creating one of Africa’s largest concentrations of wildlife. 11 countries, eventually making its wayy to the Mediterranean Sea. The inhabitants of this survival since ancient times. The vast majority of region haave depended on its waters for o su o along its banks. Egypt’s population and nearly all of the historic sights are found On the subject of deserts, Africa also hosts the world’s hottest one, the Sahara. Contrary to popular belief it’s not the worlds largest, coming it at third, after Antarctica and The Arctic. Tempera em e tures here regularly exceed 50 degrees. The dunes are enor mous too; some of them reach up to 180 meters in height. That’s just fo or starters. The impressive list of highlights continues with the likes of the Kalahari Desert, Chobe National Park, the Masai people, Lake Malaw wi, stunning Cape Town and Tab a le Mountain, Viictoria Faalls, Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei, the Gorillas of Uganda w the bazaars of Marrakesh and the beaches of Zanzibar. I could go on and on. and Rwanda, Wherever you choose to traavel this year haave fun!

Essence of Africa From life afďŹ rming safari expeditions to incredible river journeys – Africa offers it all. Enjoy the scenic wonders of the national parks and spectacular waterfalls as you search for the big ďŹ ve on safari. This is a vast and sometimes overwhelming destination that’s guaranteed to inspire, enthuse and galvanise.

Our experience count counts.s.

South Africa Safari

African River Sanctuary from

$4225*

from $1859*

Stretching along the Sabie River bordering the Kruger National Park, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers a unique safari experience. Combined with a stay at the stately Cape Cadogan, this holiday provides the best Africa has to offer.

Located just a short drive from the world famous Victoria Falls and situated on a dramatic bend in the Zambezi, these resorts, named after explorer David Livingstone’s two faithful companions, are the perfect combination for a Zambia safari adventure.

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Egan & Turner Turner Travel Travel Associates Shop 3, 116 Collins Avenue, Avenue, v Edge Hill

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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Please ask us for further details. Prices correct as at 4 Dec 12 and subject to change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until 30 Jun 13 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person & are subject to availability. Accommodation is based on twin share. Seasonal surcharges & blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies, government charges & other applicable fees. Airfare not included. South Africa Safari: Valid for travel 15 Apr - 30 Nov 13. African River Sanctuary: Valid for travel 1 Jan - 31 May, 1 - 30 Nov 13. Flight Centre Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Travel Associates. Lic No. QLD TAAG262. TAADV53693 A

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Test of! Time

Special Feature

Cairns Business College and Language Centre Words Josie Rose

In 1966, with vehemence for improving language and literacy skills within the Cairns community, Robyn White made her vision a reality. Now in its 47th year, The Cairns Language Centre and Business College continues to deliver exceptional results and produce outstanding students. Since 1972, the prestigious institute has been located on Mulgrave Road in a purposebuilt campus boasting numerous, modern facilities. The co-educational, not for profit college offers hospitality, business management and English courses for both local and international students of all ages, nationalities and educational backgrounds. “CLC is suitable for anyone of any age. The past doesn’t matter; it’s what we can do with students’ futures that counts”, say Robyn. Not only does CLC have a proven and unsurpassed success rate, it also caters and appeals to an international demographic. Foreign students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local community by participating in art and sporting programmes as well as partaking in tour activities. “We have an on-campus travel centre, student recreation areas, library and resource centre, ensuring a

hands-on experience”. With a focus on creating a holistic learning environment, Robyn takes pride in the fact that her staff allow students the time they need to grow, adjust and gain confidence. “The delivery of lessons has to be stimulating, invigorating and meet individual needs”. CLC has a team of highly qualified staff, including Director of Studies, Gail Blow, who has been with the

college for 20 years. “As we have grown, we’ve embraced a much higher standard of quality and curriculum and operate under international regulations”, says Gail. “The feedback we receive from students is that CLC has exceptional teachers. We operate with a high level of individual student awareness and consider pastoral care to be our main focus”. CLC has watched proudly as their high

70 I CairnsLife

school preparation students have blossomed and advanced, achieving OP 1’s, becoming dux of various North Queensland high schools, and entering universities on their career paths. Hospitality course graduate, Gervina Kavanamur is another of CLC’s success stories. “I come from a third world country so didn’t have the opportunity to do much schooling. When I arrived in Australia from New Britain, an island off Papua New Guinea, I could barely speak English and couldn’t use a computer. After attending CLC, my future looks so bright. Now I have a job, am renting a flat and hope to buy my own home one day. I am so grateful for what CLC has done for me”. Gail and Robyn attribute the College’s success to traditional values, exceptional staff and family-orientated atmosphere. “We’re stubborn; we don’t bend the rules or lower our standards”. With an array of Awards of Excellence, a farreaching reputation and strong community ties, CLC is Cairns’ most recognised and respected educational facility. “We will continue to educate and enlighten through pastoral care, quality education and to the highest of standards”.

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Test of! Time

A Long Life (Line). “When I met Sid, we just clicked. Sid said, ‘I’m not a shipping guy. You’re not. But, I can see in you similar qualities that I have’”. Fred White will never forget these words or when he met Sid Faithfull, “a humble man with enormous intelligence” or the day he became Sea Swift’s new CEO. That day not only marked the start of Sea Swift’s future but galvanised a quarter of a century of one of Australia’s unique, manmade shipping empires that provides Cape York and Torres Strait communities with one essential element; a lifeline. And, it all began with a Karumba entrepreneur. Sid Faithfull worked as a jackaroo, cut sheep’s toenails, hunted crocodiles, became a fossicker, a cattle station owner and baked bread for 600 people in Alice Springs. He educated himself as a prawn trawling deckhand, sold seafood by truck across the Cape, then by bulk, then mother-

shipped the Gulf of Carpentaria’s 300-strong fleet with an old tug, Carlock. Then started a business called Sea Swift in ’87. Fred recalls a colleague’s vivid recollection about a trip up to the Straits “with 44 gallon drums on deck with fuel for remote power stations and generators. It was hard to crack that market but Sid’s approach was simple; he asked customers what they wanted and found a solution”. For the next 25 years Sea Swift “helped the region develop providing it with what Cairns has from building supplies to what’s in your pantry. It’s driven the standard of living and is something we’re proud of ”, says Fred. It was a “perfect sale” when Sid handed over Sea Swift during its 25th year to a “same values” local management team and equity partners. The succession plan “provided opportunity and security for us to grow”. Sid needed to lift the company to another level and saw that

“defining moment” in Fred; a fifth-generation mining, Xstrata Mt Isa, high-end manager, who was asked to consider a sea change and cater for Sea Swift’s growing geographical footprint. That meant one thing to Fred, building blocks; management systems and safety. Within two years Sea Swift was prequalified and winning work with BHP, Rio Tinto and Bechtel while still providing essential services into remote Northern Australia. 165 staff increased to 350, 43% utilisation of 19 vessels turned into 85% of 30 which now operate from Gladstone to the Northern Territory. And all this happened while Cairns was struggling post GFC. “We were optimistic, we sell a great product, executed it well, have the right people and just got on with it”, adds Fred. They were even rewarded in 2012, taking out TTNQ’s Tourism Award for the MV Trinity Bay experience and four awards for Sea Swift’s

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Cadetship Program, the only one in Australia’s marine industry. In coming years Sea Swift will replicate what it’s doing in Torres Strait to become “the region’s preeminent shipping provider for another 25 years servicing customers who got us where we are today”. Hopefully with all of their cadets at the helm. SEASWIFT’S TEST OF TIME TIPS Your people. Your people. Your people. It’s a combination of your staff and how you execute your business that engenders customer confidence and longevity. Without the right staff you have nothing. Sea Swift CEO: Fred White 41/45 Tingira St, Portsmith 4035 1234 www.seaswift.com.au

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Immigration

VISA OPTIONS

FOR OVERSEAS PARENTS If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent

are given much higher priority and therefore processed faster

application for an aged parent or aged contributory parent

resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, who is settled in

however these classes are subject to a substantially higher

class while here in Australia and remain in Australia during

Australia, and has a parent living overseas wishing to migrate

second visa application charge and higher assurance of

the visa processing. Otherwise applicants need to apply for

here then the parent visa categories are available.

support bond with a longer bond period.

the offshore categories.

All applicants for parent visas must meet the balance of family

A mandatory Assurance of Support (AoS) bond is payable

The contributory parent visa is split into temporary and

(BoF) test. This means that parents must have either: at least

for all parent classes. The AoS is a legal commitment by a

permanent visas. A parent can either apply directly for

half of their children permanently resident in Australia or

person to repay to the Australian Government certain

permanent residency or they can chose to apply for a

more children permanently resident in Australia than in any

welfare payments paid to migrants during their respective

temporary visa, and then within two years apply for the

other single country overseas.

AoS period. An AoS is also a commitment to provide

corresponding permanent visa. The advantage of doing

There are two visa categories for parents wishing to migrate

financial support to the person applying to migrate, so that

this is that the substantial second visa application charge is

to Australia: the parent category and the contributory parent

they will not have to rely on social welfare payments. The

spread across two visa applications and potentially a two year

category.

AoS period is 2 years for the parent visa classes and 10 years

period.

The differences between the two categories are that there are

for the contributory parent visa classes.

If you are intending to migrate to Australia you should the

more visa places available each migration program year in the

Parents whose age is equivalent to a person who is eligible for

assistance of a Registered Migration Agent who can give

contributory parent visa. The contributory parent visa classes

an Australian age pension, in most cases, are able to make an

advice and guidance on the right visa option for you.

Want Want an Australian Australian V Visa? isa? At V Visa isa Connection we pr provide ovide expert and personalised immigration advice to individuals and corporations worldwide. W We e have a vast knowledge of: Australian Migration Law General Migration Advice Family sponsored ed visas Family sponsor Spouse Spouse and Defacto visas General General Skilled Migration Australian Citizenship and Work sponsored Work o sponsor ed visas (457 and RSMS/ENS)

Migration Agents Registration Number

Call us today on: (07) 4051 9043 to arrange your FREE half hour cosultation

0640004 www www.mara.gov.au .mara.gov.au

Register Registered ed Migration Agents Fiona Ryan, Register Registered ed Migration Agent No. 0640004 e info@visaconnect.com.au www.visaconnect.com.au www .visaconnect.com.au

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Test of! Time

Judith Brown

Cath Slatyer

Chris Lieshman

Special Feature

AN NQ ASSET “We were pushed out of our comfort zones regardless of where we were at to do things we were quite fearful of… and, you either adopted it or moved on”. Bill O’ Sullivan was the man responsible for creating this stir in his staff. He began Trinity Financial Services (TFS) in ’93 and was “driven, had strong work ethics”, says Senior Financial Planner Chris Lieshman who’s been with the firm 14 years. New Business Manager Sean Ryan adds “Bill was a focused, small business operator ahead of his time and that shaped how the company runs today”; an enterprise that received IFA Magazine’s 2008 Best Practice Award and made the publication’s top five nominees from 2005 to 2007. After almost two decades immersed in O’Sullivan’s work values, Operations Manager Judith Brown developed his ideology to full capacity. “Taking Bill’s success and building on that we’ve

always planned using an annual and three year business plan”. But to maintain longevity “we go beyond day to day targets, step back and look at the overall business and ask if we’re doing our best for clients, staff and owners. We also look at how other financially planning businesses excel. That’s what makes a great business and one that’ll last. It’s been key for us”. Bill retired in 2001 and his name retired too after partnering with IPAC; a like-minded company that thought TFS was a solid business. “This big, Sydney-based organisation was looking at us in Cairns!”, says Judith. And, since finance guru Paul Clitheroe and team bought TFS “we’ve grown exponentially and been given a more disciplined approach to how we operate. With a corporate backer you can’t take the eye off the ball driving you to achieve the best you can”. What’s functioning now at the forefront of financial planning is

ipac North Queensland operating with partners that preach and practice a shared philosophy. With a maturing, more professional industry we’re ahead”, says Sean. TFS was “an early developer of lifestyle financial planning which we’ve strengthened”. Bill’s business heritage and the local ownership up until 2010 also aided their GFC survival. “That time showed us it wasn’t just about investment-return but a Fee for Service, being a sounding board for client’s concerns, and advising on what will impact them financially”. Like many businesses, “we got more grey hairs” but because we had a fairly resilient business model we came out stronger”. They did; ipac Townsville and ipac Atherton opened in 2012 achieving the goal of three to four locations with an Innisfail presence still planned. And, it will happen. It’s what Bill began. It’s engrained in those people

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who’ve built the organisation to what it is today; a business with a clientele list forged on families that have become “partners for life”, says Business Development Manager, Cath Slatyer, some as long as 20 years. “We’ve seen their light bulb moments and helped them plan to get to retirement then through their retirement years onto aged care”. And now each has “the financial confidence to live the life they want”. ipac NORTH QLD’S TEST OF TIME TIPS: • Write your plans and put them in place Focus on where you want to be Learn from the mistakes Be prepared to change with the times Adapt your business accordingly ipac NQ Cairns - Level 5, 115 Grafton St Atherton - Suite 3, 30 Mabel St Townsville - 103 Boundary St 1800 776 687

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f o t s e T Time!

Special Feature

Strong work ethic, sense of humour and plain old gut instinct One of Cairns’ true characters, Danny Betros is man who’s survived the city’s ups and downs as a result of his experience, strong work ethic, sense of humour and plain old gut instinct. First arriving in 1985 he’s watched Cairns transform from a laid back party town into the cosmopolitan city we know today. And as managing director of CBRE he’s also in a unique position to know what might be around the corner. Originally arriving in Cairns as North Queensland regional manager for Shell, Danny soon discovered his true calling in Real Estate. “Cairns was basically being discovered – it was going off !” he says. “It was the greatest place you could

imagine.” After taking on commercial roles in a couple of local agencies, he eventually joined CBRE in 1989. “The whole town was a construction zone – The Hilton, The Pier and The Cairns International were all being built at once,” he says. “It was an exciting time – the most golden years of Cairns.” Specialising in selling commercial and industrial real estate, CBRE also has over 300 tenants under management, keeping it in the forefront of any changes to the CBD. “We know the market, we know the product, we know construction costs and town planning,” Danny says. “We’re not frightened to tell people what we think and, we don’t take on

everything because there’s no point if your heart’s not in it.” Danny also says the business benefits from being part of a worldwide network. “A lot of clients come to us because they deal with us internationally.” Another key to the company’s longevity is being focused. “We concentrate on property and don’t get involved in other ventures,” Danny says. “A lot of people fall by the wayside because they’re too impatient and don’t take the time to build relationships.” They’ve also learnt to ride the highs and lows over the years, surviving the pilot strike, the ‘recession we had to have’, 911 and more recently the global financial crisis. “I’ve seen some incredible fortunes made through good

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decisions and seen some amazing fortunes lost through shocking decisions,” he says. With a long-term staff of eight, Danny is quick to point out that the company’s success is a team effort and says he’s optimistic about the times ahead. “It’s exactly the same cycle we saw in the 90’s, we’re coming out from the bottom but it will still take a couple of years to rise.” Clearly a man who loves Cairns and loves his work, Danny’s says he’s been around long enough to know who’s real and who isn’t. “I’ve met several billionaires, some of Australia’s biggest developers and a couple of Chinese ‘gazillionaires’ – as well as my fair share of bozos and conmen,” he laughs.

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Finance

TO SELF MANAGE OR

NOT TO SELF MANAGE Self-managed superannuation is the fastest growing sector in the Australian Super landscape. &% 496,028 funds registered with the Government &% 39,740 new funds established in 2012 &% 114,615 new funds in last 4 years &% $1.50 trillion - total of all super assets of which $474.4b – total SMSF assets (31.3%) &% 945,207 members At KWS , a recent seminar we held on SMSF we asked why people were interested in SMSF. The predominant reason people are considering SMSF is control of investments. (Poor super investment returns from 2008-2011 would have helped this desire of control). Should YOU bite the bullet and start your own SMSF? Before taking the leap many things must be considered. Some advantages are: Control of investment decisions / Direct Investments options / Investment returns -possibly Lower Costs – depends on balance / Ability to Gear- borrow /Tax Management/ Flexible retirement pension options / Flexible estate planning. However disadvantages need to be considered carefully; Full trustee responsibilities / Lack of Knowledge /Time consuming to run / Tough penalties for breaching rules (jail or 45% tax penalty on fund) / Is expensive for low balances Extra legal responsibilities / Potentially higher costs. So one of the main advantages of SMSF is investment choice and the main reason why people seek a SMSF. Why is it then that just under Ÿ of all SMSF registered today have all their super balance sitting in a term deposit*. Apathy or just ignorance. If an SMSF is cheaper, then why is it that 22% of SMSF have a balance of less than $200,000. With the average fee $4,480 pa* to operate the fund, that is equal to 2.24% pa. *www.superguide.com.au So if you have less than $200,000 in SMSF and it’s all in cash, why have they done? Sorry to say $#"!% $% % " % ! % $ $!%# % % % !%"$% !% % $ % billable fee each year. There are great advantages for some people to have an SMSF. E.g. Self employed person using super funds to buy their business premises. A brilliant strategy that can work extremely well.

" % " % % # !% % " % % % % $#" % " % $ % $% % $% % " % trouble) and may also work well. This is relatively new. I have no doubt will end up destroying some superannuation nest eggs in time. In saying that if done with caution and prudence is worthwhile. See example below of how it may work:

What to do next? &% Understand what your objectives for your super and retirement are. &% Get the facts of your current fund. &% Really determine what your advantages will be. &% Get advice (unbiased) . If interested log onto our website and download our ‘ A Guide To Self-Managed Super’. Prosperous investing!

Brent Kelly CFPÂŽ, DipFP, GAICD | Kelly Wealth Services | Financial Planner, Managing Director. Northern Guide Financial Services Pty Ltd trading as Kelly Wealth Services and its planners are Authorised Representative of Magnitude Group Pty Ltd AFSL 221557 All information in this article must be consider as general information and has % % "$# $%$ " %" $ % $% % $" ! % " %!"$ $" % or needs. Before acting on the advice, consider its appropriateness to your $" ! % " %!"$ $" % % ! %

your financial dreams & goals with peace of mind | Is your retirement secure? | Do you know how much money you need to live on each year in retirement? | Do you know how much you will have in super, investments, property? And will it be enough?

| Are you just worried about how long your nest egg will last? We are retirement and superannuation specialists! And we can help.

| Our Retirement Goals Calculation tool will provide the framework | Our experienced planners will provide the clarity. | Our simple, focused investment approach gives you the peace of mind | We are approachable & our advice is only focused on best outcome for clients | No cost or obligation initial discussion | Fixed fee or hourly rate (see website) | 'Strategy Advice & Investment Management' or just 'Strategy and Advice'

Financial Planning that makes a difference to your financial health. Suite 4, Florence House, Lvl 2, 26 Florence St, Cairns T ( 07) 4041 2055 | www.kellywealth.com.au NORTHERN GUIDE FINANCIAL SERVICES PTY LTD TRADING AS KELLY WEALTH SERVICES IN AN AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE OF MAGNITUDE GROUP PTY LTD AFSL 221557

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The history of Palm Cove

Mark Mark Byron Byron PPROPRIETOR ROPRIETOR M Mob ob 00428 428 7753 53 8855 55 1139 39 W Williams illiams E Esplanade, splanade, P PO OB Box ox 373, 373, Palm Palm Cove, Cove, Cairns Cairns Q QLD, LD, 44879 879 P Ph: h: 0077 44059 059 00082 082 E Email: mail: evertonfc.byron2@gmail.com evertonfc.byron2@gmail.com

Dating back to over 60,000 years ago when the Aborigines became the first settlers. After the initial settling of the land, Palm Cove was used as a rest stop by Captain Cook in his navigation of the Australian coast. The most famous landing at Palm Cove happened in 1873 when G.E. Dalrymple’s Northeast Coast Expedition landed to explore the beach. The expedition was met with hostility by the indigenous people and they opened a violent assault on the exploring crew which led to one of the largest beachfront invasions in Australian history. Shortly before World War I in 1918, the land that is today Palm Cove was bought by Albert Veivers from Archdeacon Campbell. Archdeacon Campbell had been known as a priest at Cairns church who experimented with bringing different agricultural crops to the Cairns region. Veivers was important in the advancement of Palm Cove by having the first road built. The creation of the road led property values in Palm Cove to increase dramatically, leading to more prosperity for the community. Shortly after World War II, in which Palm Cove was used as a training base for Australian soldiers, the number of people traveling to Palm Cove greatly increased. The opening of the Ramada Reef Resort in 1986 marked the first international hotel chain to be located in Palm Cove and the town has continued to increase in national and international recognition ever since.

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Boutique accommodation centrally located on the Palm Cove esplanade. 95 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove QLD 4879 P: 07 40 595 600 F: 07 40 595 699 E: info@sarayi.com.au W: www.sarayi.com.au

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BT2013001

thin think nk design des sign grow gro w

studio Le Level vel 1, TTr Traveltown rra a avvel eltto own wn 1 19-21 9-21 Lak Lake La ke St Cairns C phone 07 4035 8700 emai info email info @ br brandtree.com.au b ra n dtr dt re ee.com.au e.com.au online www www.brandtree.com.au w ww w..br b ra n ndt dtrre ee.com.au e.com.au

growing strong brands

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Business Profile

L e f t t o r i g h t : D an ie l Lyn g co ln , M ia Ba r n e tt, Nick Lyngcol n

Brothers That Mean Business Words by Alana Campbell Photography by Romy Seigmann Over the last six years, brothers Daniel and Nick Lyngcoln have helped to build and manage some of the strongest and most recognisable brands of small to medium sized businesses across far north Queensland, now it is their turn as they launch BrandTree Creative. Being able to transform their passion into a profession has been a dream come true for brothers Daniel and Nick Lyngcoln who helped to establish one of Cairns’ leading design and creative studios – Smart Artz Creative – more than six years ago. Now as the business grows and matures, the pair has unveiled a new brand that better reflects the future direction of the company. “The strongest brands are often grown from the smallest ideas. We like to practice what we preach and have decided to invest in our own growth by rebranding the business,” Daniel goes on to explain. “BrandTree Creative reflects how the

business has grown and matured and where our vision for the future lies.” Creating a harmonising relationship that complements the talents of the other, BrandTree Creative has a fulltime team of three with Daniel specialising in brand development, Nick in digital media and Mia Barnett in graphic design. “We are extremely excited about the future and are well positioned to meet all client needs with exciting new concepts and a fresh approach to design and creative solutions. In saying that, we are still the same friendly, passionate and driven team focused on our clients and achieving the best outcome for them,” he adds. Daniel says over the next 12 months they will roll out a number of new initiatives never before seen by a local agency in an effort to help professional creative solutions become more accessible and affordable for small businesses. The first of these will be prepaid branding packages for existing clients and an interest free business startup pack for new clients. “First impressions are make or break,

which is why branding and the image portrayed needs to be professional and an accurate representation from the beginning. Ongoing management of this is just as important, which is why we have decided to offer a prepaid branding service.” By allowing clients to pre-pay for their services on either a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis, Daniel says they are taking the guesswork out of their advertising and online requirements, and are committed to their branding needs. “The fee will be tailored for each client and can be as little or as much as they can afford. Working within these perimeters, will give us a better opportunity to plan any graphic design and creative services required as well as branding and marketing, social media, web maintenance and updates.” BrandTree Creative clients include businesses in the tourism, retail, service, building, marketing, education and sporting industries. Prominent campaigns the team have worked on include My Style Homes, Society Bar, Northern Pride, Cairns

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Airport and the Advance Cairns rebrand. “We love working with our clients to maintain their brand integrity and personality while achieving creative and effective results and there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the end product being used to grow and build that business. When you hear people using the tag line you have created, or you see your design on a beverage on a retail shelf, it is extremely rewarding. This feeling will never go away and is what drives us to always think ahead of our competitors and deliver great results.” When siblings work together on a business venture, there are many benefits that come from this, but none more so than the fact that each can rely on the other to responsibly tackle separate aspects of the business. This is certainly the case as Daniel and Nick lead the team at BrandTree Creative, drawing on their unique skills to bring so much more to this business partnership. For more information, contact the team at BrandTree Creative on 4035 8700 or www.brandtree.com.au

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PetLife

FOOD & WINE

THE Choosing the right type of dog to bring into your home is the first decision to make before embarking on the journey of dog ownership. Research the different breeds and ensure you have a clear understanding of their behaviour and daily requirements. If you decide on a cross- breed dog consider all of the genetics which are part of the dogs makeup. The temperament and individual characteristics of the dog you choose should be compatible with you and your family. Puppy temperament tests can be a useful guide when choosing a pup from a litter. Where possible ask to view the parents and observe their behaviour. If you decide to take an older dog home be sure to acquire as much information as possible about the dogs history. How much time can you commit to exercising and stimulating your dog? This is one of the most IMPORTANT things to consider before choosing a dog. Lack of exercise is one of the biggest

PERFECT C O M PA N I O N

contributing factors towards problem behaviour with dogs. It is unfair to assume that a walk once a week or a weekend run at the beach is sufficient activity for any dog. Every dog should be given some form of basic obedience training. Make a commitment to educating them from the very first day you bring them home. Training is not only mentally and physically rewarding for your dog, but it also assists in building and maintaining a strong relationship with your canine companion. There are many ongoing financial expenses involved in caring for a dog. These include food, vaccinations, worming, flea and tick prevention, heartworm medication, obedience training and council registration. Dogs with longer coats require regular grooming and maintenance and this can mean added expense with bathing and clipping. When you go on holidays who will take care of your dog? Boarding kennel fees or the cost of having someone

80 I CairnsLife

care for your dog at home should also be considered. Ensure your property is securely fenced and you have adequate shelter for your dog. Dog ownership should never be an impulse reaction to seeing a cute little puppy or feeling sorry for the dog you see advertised in the weekend newspaper. The appearance of the dog or its popularity in the community should never influence your decision as to the type of dog you bring into your home. Every year thousands of dogs are abandoned, or surrendered to animal rescue organisations. In most of these cases people have chosen the wrong type of dog or have underestimated the commitment involved in caring for this most adorable companion. Linda Mair (Trainer/ Behaviourist) Canine Training School 0413 656 626 www.caninetrainingschool.com.au Linda conducts puppy and dog obedience classes at Earlville Vets

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:36 AM Page 81

PetLife Socials

Po Posstt your photos on our Fa Fac ce ebo eb oo ok k pa p ge ge and you ma ay be b included in our next issue!

www w..fa .facebook.com/cair rn ns sllif ife fe em magazine

PET CAFE CAIRNS

P: 07 40411415 F: 07 40410716 E: cairns@petcafe.com.au cair ns@petcafe.com.au 81 I CairnsLife

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:36 AM Page 82

Mr Wolf Cafe Breakfasts - Burgers - Clubs - Salads - Sandwiches Fish n’ Chips - Juice Bar - Smoothies - Shakes - Catering

Bacon & Eggs to Benedicts

Five types of Burgers

Stunning Salad Range

Clubs, Toastys & Sandwiches Full Juice & Smoothy Bar Esplanade

Lake St Grafton St

Spence St

Abbott St Shields St

Mr Wolf Café - City Place - Cnr Lake & Shields Streets Cairns - under the School of Arts Building (Cairns Museum)

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:36 AM Page 83

Cape Tribulation

Jungle Surfing! Most visitors to TNQ have two things high on their “must do” list: reef and rainforest. To see the reef you need to get under the water, and to really experience the rainforest you need to get up into the canopy! And the best way to do that is in the heart of the Daintree on the multi award-winning Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours. A series of tree platforms and ziplines, Jungle Surfing is a memorable mixture of exhilaration and education, taking you flying through the forest with bird’s eye views over the treetops, down to cascading streams and out to the Great Barrier Reef. The longest span is over 75 metres and the platforms range from 2.5m to 19.5m high, offering an “upclose and personal” experience at all levels of the canopy, and incredible photo opportunities. The tour is fully guided – three guides to maximum 13 guests – and no experience is necessary, so it’s suitable for all ages from 3-103. The abseiling and scientist guides share their rainforest wit and wisdom with interpretive talks on each platform and the team use a unique system to control your flight, so you can fly hands-free and carefree. Tours depart Cape Tribulation eight times daily, and last two hours.

Book ahead or you may miss out. Cape Tribulation itself is a beautiful 2 hour drive from Port, winding through some of Queensland’s most stunning scenery. The place where the rainforest meets the reef, Cape Trib is worth spending a few days to explore on foot, horseback, by kayak or boat, and has a range of unique accommodations, but you can also visit Jungle Surfing as a day trip.

The most exciting way to see the Daintree Rainforest! CAPE

• 6 platforms, 5 flying fox runs • 1 ¼ hours in the rainforest canopy • Eight tours daily departing Cape Tribulation • Eco-talk on each platform • All weather, all ages

TRIBULATION

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL! Ph: 07 4098 0043 junglesurfing.com.au

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner 7:30am til Late

$10 Lunches eg. Fish & Chips for $10

CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:37 AM Page 84

Port Douglas

PORT A world of difference

Holiday style available at Floral Edge, Port V Village illage Shopping Centr Centre, e, Port Douglas Ph 07 4099 6094 | www www. .com.au . .com.au

CREATE CREA ATTE OWN YO YOUR WONDERLAND WONDERL AND ATT QT PORT A DOUGLAS DOUGL AS PORTT DOUGLAS RESOR RESORT IS THE PERFECT PERF QT POR DAYS. SETTING FOR YOUR MOST MAGICAL OF DAYS DA AY This designer oasis will conjure dream eam wedding. conjure up your dr 87-109 Port Douglas Rd, Port Douglas QLD 4877. Ph +61 7 4099 8900 qtportdouglas.com.au qtportdouglas.com.au

Celebrate your love in the heart of town. To arrange your Wedding Function, enquire about, or book any events please contact Zinc on 07 4099 6260 or make a virtual visit zincportdouglas.com

Situated looking over the sunning Dickson Inlet, the Port Douglas & District Combined Club can offer you a stunning location for your wedding reception. Affectionately known as the Tin Shed, this location is perfect for providing a unique venue, with plenty of history and a great view to match. The Tin Shed’s venue can accommodate small groups for that special intimate cocktail affair or large groups for the more formal receptions, allowing for up to 100 guests. The Tin Shed has a fully equipped kitchen with the ability to prepare and serve you with exceptional food and outstanding customer service. The licensed bar means you won't have to worry about pouring a drink either. With a view of both the reef and the rainforest the Tin Shed provides you with the perfect backdrop for your special day and with a fully covered deck situated over the water you can ensure there will be no stress about a rainy day. Kym and the Team at the Port Douglas & District Combined Club help take the stress out of your day by providing you, all that is needed to ensure you have the perfect reception on your one and only special day. For more information on wedding at “The Tin Shed” please call 07 4099 5553 or email at admin@thetinshedportdouglas.com.au

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T

wn

Professi Professional P f Weddings Trop inn T Tropical Paradise

07 44098 2136

www.rosinasantarossa.com.au www .rosi d rve g

d re t ss ay. all

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Test of! Time Special Feature

On the Inlet When a Port Douglas couple began selling seafood from their caravan in the 1990s, they never imagined that the small venture would result in a mulit-award winning restaurant. In 1996, the small business was purchased by Glenda and Allen Sherlock who established it as ‘On the Inlet’. Today, that same seafood restaurant is owned by John and Elizabeth Mortenson, Ben White and Geoffrey Parmenter who have successfully maintained and developed the venue’s charm and identity. Words Josie Rose Michaela Newton has been a familiar face at ‘On the Inlet’ for 13 years. Her first role within the business was as sous chef, but, over the years, worked her way up through the company to her current role as operations manager. “I am so proud of what we do here and of our amazing staff ”, says Michaela. “On the Inlet has won numerous awards which is vindication that we are providing a high standard of food and service”. With a sprawling deck built out over Dickson Inlet and unique north-westerly ocean views,

On the Inlet is certainly not lacking in allure or appeal. The combination of fresh, local seafood and exceptional service has resulted in On the Inlet becoming an institution in Port Douglas. “This is a family-friendly, tactile and fun environment. We cater for any occasion and for every individual”, says Michaela. “We are often packed out during our ‘Sunset Happy Hour’ and the groper feeding (George is the resident 250 kilogram Groper fish who visits daily at 5pm). Michaela believes On the Inlet has succeeded due to its prime location, local seafood, reliable staff and enduring community support. “We are a locally owned business. We support locals and they support us”. The ala carte seafood restaurant specialises in mud crabs, buckets of prawns and whole fish with produce sourced from local fishing boats, Cairns and the Tablelands. On the Inlet did notice the repercussions from the GFC, such as the downturn in tourism throughout the region, but Michaela says that diligence and focus got them through. “It was a matter of being mindful and scaling down without compromising our standards”, and she believes that some businesses are unsuccessful as, “They don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan. To become a successful business you need to watch your figures, monitor your staff, set standards and establish strong relationships with your suppliers”. On the Inlet has become a prominent and respected entity. Never having lost sight of the importance of supporting the local community while maintaining its strong identity, the notable restaurant has earned its place on the waterfront of the picturesque Port Douglas peninsula.

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Test of! Time Special Feature

Oakdare Holdings: Civil Works, Livestock Transport, Raw Materials For Michael Connolly, work and family go hand-in-hand. At the age of 17, fresh out of high school, he embarked on a career within his family’s business; Oakdare Holdings. Today, at the age of 28, he carries the title of ‘Civil Construction and Bulk Haulage Business Manager’. Oakdare Holdings was established in 1987 by Michael’s parents, Wes and Kristien Connolly. They purchased a truck and bulldozer, operating the business from their dining room table with a note pad and a pen. Not long after, Oakdare Holdings was commissioned to assist in the construction phase of the Sheridan Hotel development, thus launching them into the public eye and earning Oakdare Holdings a reputation for high standards and quality workmanship. “Before we knew it, we owned 15 trucks and a computer which took over the dining room table”, say Michael. Since then, the business has continued to expand and evolve. Michael works alongside his parents and

brother, Wayne, who’s the livestock manager. Oakdare Holdings now employ 65 staff, own fleet of trucks, and are in the process of developing into a corporate enterprise. Their name is well-known and respected throughout the Cairns and Port Douglas regions. “We have become are a diverse business”, explains Michael. “We specialise in many areas including laying driveways and house pads, minor civil maintenance works, rural, industrial and residential sub division development, and providing services such as installing reticulated power, water, phone lines, gas and sewerage”. Oakdare Holdings are also specialists in livestock transport and bulk haulage, serving areas throughout north and central Queensland. “Not many businesses of our size have managed to successfully diversify to accommodate so many different industries. Oakdare has been involved in sugar, livestock, quarrying, development and mining. I think that’s why we are still going

87 I CairnsLife

strong”, says Michael. “We’re professional and specialise in areas that many other companies do not, such as working at extreme locations and hauling in severe conditions. We don’t limit ourselves to what we can do”. Oakdare Holdings proudly employ local workers, thus assisting in supporting their valued community. “The Cairns region is one of the best places in the world to live. We want to see it move forward and flourish, so we help where we can”. Michael says that he is proud of what he and his family have achieved, but it hasn’t come without dedication, sacrifice and hard work. “It’s often hard to segregate family and work”, says Michael who is recently married with a young son. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of our wives and our families. Everyone that’s involved has to be on the same page and working toward the same common goal. A business is like a marriage- you only get out of it what you put in”.

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Port Douglas

PortLife with Doug Ryan

With pilot strikes, cyclones (very few of which have physically effected Port Douglas) and the 654532410 /.-50 ,+*5)0 (.+0 -.+1/0 ,'25&0 ,'%0 ,.-50 -.+1/0 $%0 .50 2,#0 &5%%#"0 !+,)0 5."0 2&%0 45(0 '2 '1(0 ,+5%/0 4,'1%,%)0 .*,0 .+ 14#0 '4#0 *%$.+5/%/0 -2,'0 450 %5%* (0 45/0 2,412,(0 ,'4,0 2#0 %5 2%/0 $(0 45(0 /%#,254,2.5#0250 +#,*4124" 2,'0,.+*2# 05+ $%*#0.50,'%0*2#%)0*%410%#,4,%0#41%#0.50,'%0-4(0+ )05%-0*%#,4+*45,#0 . 25 0+ )0 4 .*0 /% %1. %5,#0 .50 ,'%0 /*4-25 0 $.4*/0 45/0 *%4,0 5%-0 4*&145/#0 41.5 0 .+*0 -4,%*0 *.5,)0 (.+0 -.+1/0,'25&0 &4#% #0 '.#,0'4#065%1(01% ,0,.-5"0 50*%412,(02,02#0,'%0*%#212%53%045/0,%5432,(0. 0,'%01.5 0 ,%* 0$+#25%##%#045/03. +52,(0,'4,0'4 %0#%%50+#0,'*.+ '0,'.#%0,.+ '0,2 %#)0 *. 2/25 0% 1.( %5,0 45/0. .*,+52,(0250,.+ '0,2 %#" 50-*2,25 0,'2#04*,231%0(.+0#,4*,0,.0*%412 %0,'4,02,0-4#5 ,0 +#,040 %-0. 0,'%0$2 0 14(%*#)0$+,0 45(0. 0,'%0 # 4110$+#25%##%#0,'4,0'4 %0#,../0,'%0,%#,0. 0,2 %" ..&25 04,0 +#,040 %-)0-%0'4 %0,'%0 4+,21+#0*%#,4+*45,0#,4*,%/0$43&0250,'%0 #"0 +23&#21 %*0#,4*,%/0$(0 2 045/0 .%0 41143%0-'.0. %*02,#0,2 %0'4#0% 1.(%/0,'.+#45/#0. 0#,4 045/0#,2110 .25 0#,*.5 "0 25520

Port Douglas hit the headlines back in the eighties when Christopher Skase opened the Mirage resort and the region has gone through some amazing times since.

!.+,2 +%0'4#0$%%504*.+5/0 .*% %*0 2* 25402#041-4(#0,'%*%0,.0'%1 "0 03.+ 1%0. 0,'%01.341031+$#0'4 %0 ,*4/%/0,'*.+ '045/0/% %1. %/0-2,'0,'%0 % $%*#'2 0. 0,'%03. +52,("0!.,'0#,4*,%/0$43&0250,'%0 #0,'%0 . $25%#0 1+$045/0,'%0 43',0 1+$05.-0. %*0 2#2,.*#045/01.341#0 *%4,0 43212,2%#" 5%0. 0,'%0 4 212%#0,'4,0'4 %0$%%5025#,*+ %5,410250,'%0/% %1. %5,0. 0 .*,0 .+ 14#02#0,'%0 .**2#0 4 21("0 2,'025,%*%#,#0250 .*,0 .+ 14#0 %% 0 %#.*,#0,'%(0-%*%025#,*+ %5,410250,'%0/% %1. %5,0. 0 -'4,02#05.-0 )0 4 4/4)0 '%0 41 %*0 %40 %% 0 .1 03.+*#%)0 '%0 21/12 %0 4$2,4,)0 4*4/2#%0 25&#0 4#0-%1104#0 1.#%'4 %50 4*254045/0,'%0!411(0 ..1%(0,*425045/02 0,'4,02#05.,0%5.+ '0'4 %0#,4*,%/040 5%-0,.+*2# 0%5/%4 .*0.50,'%0,4$1%145/#0-2,'0403'4*,%*0 %%,0*+5525 0.+,0. 0 .*,0 .+ 14#"0 '%*%0 4*%0 45(0 .*%0 ,'4,0 4(0 5.,0 $%0 #.0 '2 '0 *.61%)0 #+3'0 4#0 .*,0 *./+3%)0 .*,0 4,%*25 )0 " " ") 4554 .*/#)0 +5,0 *3'2,%3,#)0 .*,+1+#)0! )0 4&/4*%045/0 50,'%0 51%,04*%0 +#,040 %-0. 0 ,'%0'2//%50'%*.#0. 00 .*,0 .+ 14#"

88 I CairnsLife

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PORT DOUGLAS ON SHOW by Alana Campbell

From the reef to the rainforest and everything in between, Port Douglas Carnivale celebrates life in this stunning seaside town with ! entertainment, activities, food, wine and much, much more.

From May 17 to 26 Australia turns its attention to Port Douglas, the jewel

Sheraton on the night provided by Sun

goes on to explain. “The announcements will

of tropical north Queensland. For the past 18 years Port Douglas Carnivale

Palm. The Meridian Seafood Extravaganza,

"! ! ! !

has been entertaining thousands of locals, inter-state travellers as well as

held along Port Douglas’ marina on Sunday

the Port Douglas Combined Club and tickets

international visitors, serving up delicious, fresh, regional produce and a

morning, will conclude the weekend.

are now on sale.�

! ! !

“Port Douglas Carnivale has come of age. For

With exciting new events, great family

Port Douglas Carnivale manager Ken Dobbs says the 2013 event program

the last 18 years this celebration of life in the

activities, Port Douglas Carnivale 2013 is

is no different and is the largest and most diverse ever to be put together.

tropics has been going strong and this year

shaping up to be the most memorable yet. For

“Port Douglas Carnivale has continued to grow and evolve into one of

will be the biggest yet and with the callibre of

more information or to register an event visit

Australia’s leading festivals and these new events prove that people are

celebrities such as Ben and Daryl as well as

www.carnivale.com.au.

hungry for more,� he says.

gourmet food events across both weekends,

The opening weekend will comprise of the Sheraton Mirage Longest

we are extremely excited.�

Lunch and the Macrossan Street Parade on Friday, May 17 and Food,

The festival program will be further bolstered

Wine & A Taste of Port and the Family Beach Day on Saturday, May 18.

by some old favourites including Carnivale

Kicking off the second weekend of food events will be Palates of Port on

Club featuring comedy acts, the Exemplar

"! ! ! ! ! ! !

Clipper Cup as well as other sporting and

Sugar Wharf. On Saturday, will be the launch of a new event, A Taste of

community events.

Paradise, which Mr Dobbs hopes will grow to become one of the region’s

This month on April 19, the Song of Carnivale

! !

and Miss Carnivale will also be announced.

This one-day free event, which will be held from 9am to 5pm in Market

Supported by Port Douglas Radio, Song of

Park, has been created to showcase the food, the restaurants, the chefs and

Carnivale is open to all musicians living in the

the beverage makers of the far north region. Hear celebrity chefs including

region. “We are searching for a song which

Ben O’Donohue share tips of the trade with cooking demonstrations,

embodies the spirit of Port Douglas. This

learn new skills but most importantly enjoy the food and wine on the day.

will be used across all Port Douglas Carnivale

Daryl Braithewaite will also perform that night in an outdoor concert at

media and advertising campaigns and is a

the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas, with free transfers to and from the

great opportunity for a local musicians,� Kens

89 I CairnsLife

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Port Douglas

easonal

S

changes

It really doesn’t matter who they are by or what style they are, invest in quality

by Ally McKean

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90 I CairnsLife

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Special Feature

BTS Tours

Some businesses are born out of necessity; others are born out of luck. BTS Tours, established by Rob West, was born out of passion. Rob and partner Ann are Port Douglas locals. Upon arriving in Far North Queensland 30 years ago, they saw an opportunity to showcase the stunning rainforest environment to tourists and locals alike. With a passion for the tourism industry and an avid interest in the local attractions and landscape, Rob hired a budget 4WD and began taking small groups on tours along the recently opened and highly publicised Bloomfield Track, linking Bloomfield with Cape Tribulation. ‘Bloomfield Track Safaris’ (BTS) was born and is now one of the longest established tour operations in Port Douglas.

As a result of growing demands, Rob began offering two day tours to Cooktown. In 1988, when the rainforest was World Heritage Listed and becoming a growing attraction, Rob also added the Daintree Rainforest to the list of popular tourist destinations. It didn’t take long before BTS Tours earned a reputation for being a specialist in their field. Today, Rob and Ann own a fleet of 5 BTS Tour buses plus another specifically designated vehicle for the Daintree Rainforest tours. BTS also operates Port Douglas Bus; a tourist transport service operating primarily between Cairns and Port Douglas, including pick up and drop off services from the airport and holiday accommodation in Cairns and Port Douglas. The service also

stops at popular destinations such as Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Skyrail, the Kuranda Scenic Train, AJ Hackett, Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks and Mossman Gorge, as well as connecting with boats to the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas. Rob and Ann have faced many challenges over three decades as small business owners, but it has been their ability to grow and adapt with changing demands that has seen BTS Tours endure. “I’m proud of the quality and trusted transport service we operate. We strive to be punctual and reliable, have a team of experienced and informative drivers, guides and enthusiastic staff. “Important reasons we’ve endured is our ability to adapt and change with the times. We offer a flexible service to suit

91 I CairnsLife

Test of! Time

customer requirements”, says Ann. Even though the GFC affected local tourism, Rob says, “Tough times provide you with opportunities- that’s when you learn the most about your business. It forces you to take a good look at yourself and revaluate how you’re operating”. Through hard work, long hours, family sacrifice and team effort, BTS has emerged stronger and wiser. “You have to unite as a team and work toward a common goal”, says Ann, who also credits community support and word-of-mouth for their businesses staying-power. From a hired budget 4WD to a fleet of 6 buses and a team of 13 staff, BTS Tours has overcome treacherous terrains and is well-and-truly on the road to ongoing success.

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SportingLife

RIDER OF THE

MONTH

about yourself: Hi Paul! Tell e us a little a I’m a Cairns born local of 34 years. 9 to 5 I work foor SKM as a Civil Designer and the rest of my time revolves around riding a bike, which wouldn’t be possible without my supportive partner Steph. At what age did you get involved in Cycling and why? I starting riding to work on the odd occasion about 5 years ago. I was told cycling was addictive and that it wouldn’t take long till I was taking ‘the long waay to work’. I quickly discovered ‘the long waay to work’, and over the next few years I was cycling to work most daays y , up to the present day where I’m training every day. Do you ha ave a favourite brand that you prefer to ride? I haave a Specialized road bike, Specialized time trial bike and a Specialized mountain bike, so I guess it’s Specialized. Are you involve ed in more tha an n one type of cycling, if so wh hat are they? My main foocus is on road racingg, but I’ve been doing more mountain biking over the past 2 years. I’ve also recently competed in a few triathlon’s. Are you involved in a club in Cairns? I’m a member of the Cairns Cycling Club, Cairns Mountain Bike Club and the Cairns Crocs My main sponsor is Pump ‘N’ Pedals. They haave been a huge help with their fantastic service and support. Other local business’ who’ve also provided support are Tenni’ s Driving School, Sinclair e Knight Merz and Faasta Pasta. They all got onboard and recently and supported a team entry into a 9 stage mountain bike event called the Crocodile Trophy. ave participated in and What are some competitions you ha where did you place? The biggest race I recently competed in was the Crocodile Troph hy. It’s held over 1000km’s from Cairns to Cooktown in what can best be described as the toughest longest route possible. It’s best known overseas and attracts mostly international riders. My best result was 1st Australian on 2 of the stages. Our team which included 2 other local riders Steve Rankine and Brendan Skerke placed 3rd overall, and Steve got the 1st Australian n overall. Do you ha ave a competition comping up? The races I am targeting for o 2013 are towards the end of the yearr. I’m planning on doing the Melbourne to War a nambool Classic which is Australia’s oldest and longest 1 daay road race at 260km, the Tou our o of Bright which is a 3 stage road race in Victoria, i and again the Crocodile Trophy which starts at home in Cairns. How do you prepare for a race? so the whole year needs to be planned out. Nutrition and hydration plaay an important part of preparation as most races can be over 4 The most rewarding thing about riding is the freedom. With a modest get you most places a car can.

Civic C ivic S Shopping hopping C Centre entre 113-117 1 13-117 S Sheridan heridan S Street, treet, C Cairns, airns, Q QLD, LD, 4 4870 870 Ph P h4 4051 051 6 6853 853 | w www.pumpnpedals.com.au ww.pumpnpedals.com.au

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AutoLife Peugeot has woken from its slumber and sworn to roll out a swag of interesting and involving cars in the years to come. But it seems the French company was still to have its morning coffee and baguette when it developed the 208 supermini. Hey, it's interesting to look at, but it isn't that involving to drive. At the core of the new 208 is a modified version of the PF1 architecture that underpinned its uninspiring predecessor, the 207. But while the wheelbase is retained, the new car is shorter, narrower, lower and significantly lighter. Technically at least, the latter is perhaps the 208's finest achievement. The 1.2-litre threecylinder, five-speed manual base model weighs in under the tonne and from there the heaviest car in the line-up barely sneaks over 1100kg tare. The base 207 was 1224kg. All-up, there are six models. The

E S I CRU 208 60kW 1.2 Active manual and 88kW 1.6 four-speed auto, the Allure 1.6 manual and auto, the Allure Premium 1.6 auto, and the sole three-door in the lineup, the 115kW Allure Sport 1.6-litre turbo-petrol (or THP) six-speed manual. There are no diesels and there will be no wagon or CC. Pricing starts $500 cheaper than the 207 at $18,490 for the Active 1.2, while Premium and Sport top the range at $26,490. Equipment levels are pretty strong.

The cornerstone is a 7.0-inch media screen in the dashboard that looks like a computer tablet and has pretty swish graphics. Pity you can't unplug it and take it with you (a la VW Up). The other key interior design feature is a tiny steering wheel designed to make the car feel racier and more intimate to drive. It might work for some, but it just annoyed me because the top of the rim blocked the digital speedo readout in the 'floating' instrument

panel. I also found the steering wheel wouldn't rise high enough or the seat drop low enough to feel that I was riding 'in' rather than 'on' the 208. No surprise that the Sport is the pick of the driving experiences. The 1.2 triple needs a turbo and the 1.6-litre fours are mediocre. The THP engine's mid-range makes a substantial difference to the ability to make swift forward progress. As do 205/45R17 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres, which help deliver the best body control and decent grip while ride quality remains more than acceptable. The electric rack-and-pinion steering is at its weightiest in the Sport, rarely rattling but also not offering much in the way of feel. Manual gearboxes are a letdown across the range (we didn't get to try the autos at launch), but the Sport's narrow-gated six-speeder is an outright disappointment. Missed shifts were too common. All that combined to make the Allure Sport a less than alluring and not particularly sporty drive. We look forward to Peugeot's next product instalment, post breakfast.

peugeot.com.au

NEW PEUGEOT 208

RELEASE YOUR BODY NOW at Motoco Peugeot *0:< (.,:78=< < 5102< +<*79:02<4046 6333 :2< 7:890< 923>=:<0414 579 799 The pleasure of driving has been rekindled with the new Peugeot 208. Designed to offer more sensations and more stimulation, this exciting new hatch feels like an extension of your body. Its natural design features an intuitive new driving position, smaller steering wheel and an integrated colour touchscreen for the ultimate in driver connectivity. The 208 is available in elegant 5-door and sporty 3-door versions and comes with the re-assurance of our ďŹ xed-price servicing plan for total peace of mind. So awaken your senses, take to the road and let your body drive. Exclusive compact steering wheel.

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NEW PEUGEOT 208 LET YOUR BODY DRIVE

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Horoscopes April

ARIES: (March 21- April 20) | Lucky Colour: White | Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3.5.6.9. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.36.35.44. Looks like your hard work in the past will be rewarded handsomely. Recognition in the right circles will help your career and bring seen in the right places will also assist you. This could be the best period on your life for a long time and what is likely to come your way could take you by surprise..

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23) | Lucky Colour: Red | Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3.6.5.3. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.1.6.10.22. Don’t rush into situations you cannot see the outcome of. Not wise to lend or borrow or spend on anything but essentials. Providing you are cautious this should " ! " " ! "! middle of some gossip.

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) | Lucky Colour: Peach | Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3.2.6.5. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.15.26.9.44. Big plans all around you and they should affect you some what. Personality clashes possible but be weary of criticism that could be interpreted as jealousy. Do not let your emotions get the better of you, take stock of what it is you really want.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22) | Lucky Colour: Orange | Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3.6.2.3. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.5.10.22. You should make the effort to catch up on the chores that have been building up over the winter period. Be prepared for an opportunity to improve your career and money matters. Old friends may be dropping in on you and someone with them will be making a big splash for you.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) | Lucky Colour: Mauve | Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6.5.3.2. | Lotto Numbers: 3.16.25.40.33.39. In your career many new things could happen very suddenly. Try to adjust your thinking and give a little in relationships someone could be expecting s lot from you now. Most will be feeling more in control. An excellent period for achieving all sorts of success. CANCER: (June 22- July 22) | Lucky Colour: Dark Green | Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.3.6.2. | Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.36.35.8. This period should be much better for your love life and new relationships are formed during this period. Take life as it comes and do not push your ideas too much at the moment. A very good period coming up for health and improvements "! LEO: (July 23- August 22) | Lucky Colour: Blue | Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.1.3.4. | Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.29.30.22. You could b forced to change your mind about a close and personal friend and this could be very unsettling. Your work is getting to a stage when you should ask for some help. Someone in authority who recognises your potential, will be doing battle on your behalf. VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) | Lucky Colour: Orange | Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6.5.3.2. | Lotto Numbers: 6.12.25.40.33.37. Big plans about travel and some moves could affect you in a surprising way. "! "! " "! ! ! ! burned for nothing. Try to be a little bit more tactful with loved ones.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23- December 20) | Lucky Colour: Blue | Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2.35.1. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.9.44.45.

"! ! ! ! ! ! " " ! " ! planned venture you start during this period should have a successful outcome. Someone from the past could re enter your life. Most will be more sensitive to the wishes of loved ones and more inclined to listen " " ! ! " CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19) | Lucky Colour: Cream | Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2.9.6.2. | Lotto Numbers: 2.13.26.29.5.11. !" " ! ! " " ! ! ! " are indicated. The secret side of somebody close to you could bring surprises. A little stranger could move in. A very hectic social life is indicated. There will be opportunities to mix business with pleasure and travel over long distances. AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19) | Lucky Colour: Green | Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 2.6.8.9. | Lotto Numbers: 2.16.9.17.36.22. This period should help you realise some of your fondest wishes and brig some very happy moments in your life. Do your best for someone who needs some " ! ! ! ! ! " ! ! " " indicated. PISCES: (February 20- March 20) | Lucky Colour: Fawn | Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3.9.5.6. | Lotto Numbers: 3.12.26.25.40.45. " "! ! " ! ! !" People seem to expect a lot from you now. Finding time for relaxation could be a " " " "!

KERRY KULKENS PSYCHIC LINE 1902 240 051 CALL COST: $5.50 INC G.S.T. PER MIN. MOB/PAY EXTRA. VISIT KERRY PERSONALLY AT 1693 BURWOOD HWY BELGRAVE PH/FAX 9754 4587 WWW.KERRYKULKENS.COM.AU

Any Bike B pur purchased rchased c this month m will rreceive eceive e a $100 $1 KTM Clothing Pack 3 2 - 3 4 W ATER S T, C A IRN S | (07) 4051 2741 | W AY N ELEO N A RD.COM RD.COM.. AU

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Cairns RSL Wanderers Rugby Union

PLAYER

of

the month

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Test of! Time Special Feature

Fuelling A Future “If there’s a job that needs 20, and we’ve got 10, we’ll take it on. He’s got big balls when it comes to business”. Murray (Muzz) Blackie is right. He just summed up exactly how NQ Petro’s Managing Director, Craig Cygler, ticks. But let’s wind the clock right back first and find out how one grew such a pair. Working out the back shed of their home in 1985 was where Wally and Jan Cygler set up North Qld Petrol Installations. “As a kid I remember seeing bowsers coming in and out, but was more interested in kicking a footy”, says Wally’s reminiscent 39 year old son, Craig. Wally soon left that tin shed for a new set of four walls in Draper Street. After starting an accountancy cadetship Craig got side tracked. “I wasn’t thinking long term then and took up my footy coach’s offer of $500 a week

to be a delivery driver”. But, after two years and “one of those father-son moments” young Cygler began a future with his father despite being “the worst apprentice Wally ever hired”, laughs Craig. The business went through a change of hands in the years to come but in April 2004 Craig took over. “I owed it to the staff, I was getting a feel for it and the challenge the industry offered” reflects Craig. So with three staff, himself, Muzz, “who’s like my Darren Lockyer” and senior office administrator Annette “I can see myself retiring here” Kaden, NQ Petro Pty Ltd began. The ambition was to “be the leading business in my regional area and start going for the big jobs”, says Craig. He did. Caltex Smithfield, now BP, came through in June. “We just persisted. It came down to customer service and we

delivered”. Cairns boomed. The work load increased. NQ Petro recruited. In 2007, a project presented by THIESS kept Craig busy spending 14 hours a day over three weeks quoting on a national tender. Two months later his team was fitting a new refuelling system at Cairns Navy base; a job completed “on time and on budget”, assures Craig. With the success of two major projects NQ Petro was now able to expand to a larger Woree premise. Today, NQ Petro does work for BP, Caltex and Shell across Queensland, northern NSW, NT, the Torres Straits and PNG, SLP checks on Cairns fuel tankers and has built almost every new service station in town. There are service fitters in Townsville and Bundaberg and NQ Petro jerseywearing subcontractors carrying out facilities maintenance from

Darwin to Grafton. And, within five years, Craig hopes to expand NQ Petro into Darwin. When Craig’s time card does clock out he can’t wait to be home with another NQ Petro employee, his wife Anece, and three children. And every Saturday at 1pm sharp he’s there catching up on his hobby; breeding race horses and backing winners. Who knows soon there might be a filly named “Nozzle” comin’ down that Magic Millions straight one day. NQ PETRO’S TEST OF TIME TIPS: Create a working environment which people enjoy and where they’re continually challenged. Woree Business Park 14 Atticus St, Woree 4054 5100 / 1800 451 770 www.nqpetro.com.au

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Test of! Time Special Feature

It was planned. Not an accident. “I enjoy the healthy laid back lifestyle of Far North Queensland. I’ve lived here all my life. This is my 38th year working in the Automotive Repair industry and this year is my 27th in business. Cairns has been home since January 1983 and I have made countless friends across the region. Many years ago after completing my gas and pipeline welding TAFE course I chose not to go to the mines but start my own business; our twin girls were just born and it was too hard to work away from the family”. Today Steve’s family is all grown up and have contributed by working in the family business, Cairns Accident Repair Centre. “They are now achieving success in their own careers. Emma, Amanda and Cory are successfully employed in Townsville, Adelaide and Brisbane”. Steve Eaton is a healthconscious, sports minded,

Kokoda-trekking (honoured his great uncle, John Boothman in 2006), human rights and education advocate whose has an opened mind about astrology and a fan of the Northern Pride and Cowboys. He’s also a man who’s done some hard yakka and learnt the meaning of this when he was just five. He’s now 54. “I grew up on a farm. Mum died of Leukaemia when I was five so we moved to my grandparent’s farm outside Millaa. My Father, Bill, and Grandfather Sandy were my mentors. In those days you had to fix things yourself so I followed them around learning a lot. They were real family men”. Steve’s family left Millaa, moved to Atherton then Innisfail. Bill was a Queensland government politician for four terms and growing up around politics was exciting. Living in Innisfail gave Steve opportunities to play representative sport cricket and

rugby league. He started his Panel Beating Apprenticeship in 1975 at local Ford dealer, See Poy Motors Innisfail and later worked at Ivo’s Panel Works. In 1983 he moved to Cairns and in April ’86 established Brewery Smash Repairs, opposite the Brewery. “It grew with enormous support from friends and colleagues and to this day I’m grateful to each of them”. When the new millennium arrived Steve moved to Manunda, and rebranded the business Cairns Accident Repairs Centre (CARC). In 2002, the MTAQ Motor Traders Association of Queensland elected Steve as a Director representing Far North Queensland and then Vice President in 2007. As far as challenges over the last 27 years Steve says “the biggest hurdle is shops leaving the industry due to big companies entering the market. Small businesses must become more

97 I CairnsLife

specialised to ensure we’re competitive. We also have to maintain training and education to protect manufacturer’s warranties and intellectual property. But managing ourselves, staff, customers and work providers is the real key to success. Steve is now taking on further challenges by growing his business “not in size but in service making it more technically skilled and environmentally friendly”. STEVE’S TEST OF TIME TIPS: Focus on the positive Put in a little extra, in time or effort Accept circumstances and adapt Owner: Steve Eaton 158 Mayers St, Manunda 4053 7275 www.cairnsaccidentrepair.com.au

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Test of! Time

Special Feature

Throw a Stone Joe Business? Pools. Business name? None. Where d’ya live? Yorkeys. Partner? Lake Placid. Right, make it Placid Pools. That’s a snapshot of Joe Spelta’s life back in the late 70s; the day he registered his and Lyn’s pool business at the Court House. “I was working for BP Constructions, this big Cairns pool builder, and they went bust. I heard half way through doing a pool in Bayview it was over”, says Joe. But not for long. “Bugger it. Lets start a pool business,” he said and Placid began by finishing many broken dreams. “We put other jobs back, did it at cost and restored faith in the industry”. Now you get an idea of the calibre of person, of the family, behind three decades of building backyard water playgrounds in Cairns. “It’s innate in dad”, says Joe’s GM and daughter, Amanda.

“He’s a visionary”; a man with well-worn, done-the-hard yards hands and an unabating effervescence for his craft. The days out on Clifton Beach acreage in the early 90s, the Spelta family’s first display office-home, encapsulated how to entertain in the tropics. “Wives and kids would come over and play in the pool and husbands would have a pot and do the nitty gritty with me”, says Joe. “We created a bond with customers there and then”. And the Spelta-five do it today from their Smithfield one-stop shop, the largest of its kind in Australia and 2nd in the world, all drawn on a napkin at a kitchen table by Joe. “Seeing it on that serviette and seeing it for real represents Dad. What he saw in his head he created”, reaffirms Amanda. After building about 8000 pools across the far north it’s likely “If you throw a stone in any street in Cairns, it will land in a Placid

pool”, she jokes. But if you keep tossing, a few will also land in Mt Isa, the Whitsundays, Torres Straits and soon Indonesia where they’re hoping to plonk 46 pools on Bintan Island. Now, this is where “dirty words” like chlorine are already being replaced with alternatives such as natural, mineral, sustainable, accountable, six years of research and development and a lifetime playing in swimming holes from Cow Bay to Cape Trib. The future is having “Crystal Cascades in your backyard”, says the GM and “our biomimicry, Eco Splash™ System is the only tropical one in the world”. Joe looks on chuffed, his mind ticking over; 30 years ago he took a punt and has since been honoured with more than 50 national and state awards and six international gold gongs. He’s surrounded by a united family front that can survive any economic cycle. He’s comforted by the values, vision and

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individual strengths of his kids, Amanda, Tanya and Mark and their “no boardroom-needed” business ethics. “If you want give it other 30 more and you’re out I’ll let you off the hook”, jokes Joe to Amanda. “But you better hope I don’t live til then”. He roars with laughter. Here’s to longevity Joe.

PLACID POOL’S TEST OF TIME TIPS: Believe in your business and yourself Surround yourself with the likeminded Don’t listen to naysayers Invest in your business in tough times Don’t give up Placid Pools Joe, Lyn, Amanda, Tanya and Mark Spelta 2 - 4 Mt Koolmoon St, Smithfield 4038 8500 www.placidpools.com.au

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Test of! Time

Status Plus Almost 30 years ago, Carolyn Balderson established Status Plus. In 1992, Carolyn’s son, Ashley Balderson, took up a position in the timber doors department. He advanced to a management position and, 13 years later, became the proud company owner. Status Plus has recently undergone extensive renovations, transforming the shop into an impressive 1,200 square metre showroom on 4 levels. The sprawling, sleek and modern space showcases a comprehensive range of leading kitchen, bathroom and lifestyle appliances and fixtures, including Miele, Siemens, Smeg, Neff, Duce, Electrolux, Asko, Caroma, Bosch, Beko and many more. Today, Status Plus remains North Queensland’s

leading local, family-owned household appliance retailer - a destination for builders and renovators alike, offering kitchen and laundry appliances, timber windows , bifolds and pivot doors , blinds and shutters , bathroom wares and beautiful Bisazza mosaic tiles for swimming pools and bathrooms. Kirsty Hening has been with Status Plus for several years. She began as a PA and worked her way up to her current role as floor manager. “I love the customer interaction”, says Kirsty. “We believe in providing an old-world shopping experience which enables us to develop strong customer relationships”. Status Plus also believes in giving back to the community by sponsoring various events and supporting charities such as the Guide Dogs Association. “It’s vital to shop and reinvest in our community”, says owner, Ashley Balderson,

who makes a point of supporting local business wherever he can. Ashley credits strong family values for the success of Status Plus, along with staying true to his principals. “We strive to deliver the desired results each and every time. If we make a mistake, we rectify it. Client satisfaction is our top priority”. Ashley’s advice to struggling businesses is, “Focus on saying ‘yes’ more often. Always go out of your way for each and every client, under-promise and overdeliver in all areas”. With a unified team of 11 staff, an innovative showroom and an unparalleled reputation, Status Plus has earned their position as an industry leader. “Ashley has put his heart and soul into this company”, says Kirsty. “He has ensured that even though we move and diversify with current trends and demands, that we retain our personality, identity and values. We offer leading

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Special Feature

products, competitive prices and personal service, giving Status Plus a point of difference”. Despite the striking and spacious showroom housing a range of industry leading products and brands, Kirsty assures customers that Status Plus caters to all budgets and requirements. “We provide advice and assistance in all stages of residential and commercial design, development and renovation, no matter what the vision, project or budget. Come in for a chat and take a look around”. With the anticipated approach of Status Plus’ 30th Birthday and numerous award-winning achievements to be proud of, Ashley says he and his dedicated team are excited about the future. “We are looking forward to another 30 years of providing leading brands, competitive prices and old-world service to our customers and their children”.

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Test of! Time Special Feature

Early Settler Cairns From humble beginnings in 1985 in Melbourne, to an impressive chain of 27 stores Australia-wide, Early Settler has become a well-known and trusted name, and the Cairns store is no exception. Located on Anderson Street for the past 17 years, Early Settler Cairns has built and maintained a reputation for its exceptional range of quality furniture, fittings, décor and homewares combined with personal service, professional advice and a dedicated staff. The large store houses an impressive range of internationally sourced furnishings including French provincial, traditional, recycled, modern and country, with styles to suit every taste, room and budget. Decorating services are

available for both residential and commercial requirements. Store manager, Mishka Gamble, has been with Early Settler Cairns for 10 years and credits the extensive range along with an emphasis on customer service for the store’s longevity. “We pride ourselves on earning the trust of the Cairns community, and I think we’ve done that. We have a great reputation and many regular customers”, says Mishka. “If it wasn’t for customer loyalty, we wouldn’t be here, so to us, our customers are the most important and valued aspect of this business”. With customer satisfaction a priority, Mishka explains that, in her opinion, many businesses fail due to their lack of

customer care. “Businesses should offer customers 100% of their time and attention, but unfortunately, this is not always the case. Also, if staff members are not enjoying their jobs, it reflects on that business as a whole”. The 6 staff members at Early Settler Cairns share Mishka’s enthusiasm for providing exceptional service. “This is a great place to work. We are always busy and smiling. When customers walk in, we want them to feel like they’re being welcomed into our home”. It’s evident that the team at Early Settler are united in a common goal; superior customer service and maintaining a positive attitude, even through uncertain times. “Many businesses have suffered

Words Josie Rose

over the last couple of years, but the key is to stay focused and remain positive”. Mishka explains that Early Settler Cairns did not experience a detrimental downturn in business during the GFC. “We always have new stock and strive to create an exciting and inspiring environment. That’s what our customers love about this store”. With Early Settler Cairns one of the few businesses to remain buoyant through the GFC, Mishka encourages locals to continue to support local businesses and the community. “We want our customers to know how much we value their loyalty, and we will continue to provide them with the very best service in return”.

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Solahart Cairns For local business owners, Bob and Trish Mulligan, life couldn’t be better.

Test of! Time

They have been happily married for 30 years, have raised a family and are now looking forward to their first child-free holiday in two decades, plus, they have successfully built and maintained their own business. Bob and Trish first took over the Solahart Cairns dealership in 1993 and haven’t looked back since. Despite starting out as a team of two, business continued to grow, quickly becoming a workforce. Bob and Trish have put in the hard-yards and proved they have what it takes to remain a steadfast and trusted name in solar hot water, solar power and installation from north of Townsville right up to the tip of Cape York Peninsula. “We’ve always maintained superior customer service and been true to our clients”, says Trish. “We treat their homes as if they’re our own. Plus, we’ve had the same installers with us for 20 years so we’re like a family”. Trish also explains that the iconic Solahart name instills confidence in their clients. “We’ve never compromised on quality or integrity; never sold a cheaper or less superior product but we also never criticise competing brands and are happy to provide advice and information on any reputable product, not just our own”. It’s this transparency and honesty that has seen Bob and Trish develop a respectable reputation within the industry as well as throughout Cairns. “Cairns is a small city. You can’t run a successful business here if you are misleading”. With over half of their business coming from client referrals, it’s obvious that the Cairns community has embraced this commendable local business, but Bob and Trish don’t believe in taking without giving back. “You must give back to your community”, and they do. Solahart Cairns is a proud supporter of local football and basketball clubs as well as generous contributors to Cystic Fibrosis and the RSPCA along with numerous other charities. Bob and Trish credit strong values, a trusted product, tight-knit staff and a good work ethic for their longstanding company, and plan on remaining a valued business in the Cairns community for at least another 10 years. “We’ve experienced highs and lows, but we just push through, continue doing what we’re doing and eventually, we come out the other end”. Despite their positive attitude and realistic approach to business, Cairns has its challenges, such as the decline of many industries, especially shipping and manufacture. “The building industry and unemployment have delivered challenges over the years. There are few new homes being built compared to what there used to be”, explains Bob. Bob and Trish’s advice for new and struggling Cairns businesses it to start small, have a solid business plan, good communication with staff, ensure financials are in order and to network. “Keep an eye on your core business and don’t lose sight of your direction” says Bob. “Whatever you know well- do well”.

Special Feature

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Test of! Time

Special Feature

COL TAKES A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO HIS WORK After over thirty years in the industry with numerous awards and accolades, some would say Col Neate has very little left to prove. Yet as founder and managing director of Neater Constructions he remains just as dedicated and enthusiastic to this day. Together with his professional team, Col takes a handson approach to his work – assisting clients in achieving their building goals while also focusing on the continuous improvement of the company. Col’s interest in building began at an early age. When not attending boarding school he helped his father in the family sawmill as well as building modest timber framed homes. “I showed a strong interest in carpentry quite early and enjoyed assisting with building works throughout my school holidays,” he says. After graduating from Downlands College, he started his carpentry apprenticeship in Toowoomba before later moving to Cairns where he obtained his builders’ registration in 1982. As the youngest licensed builder in Queensland at the time, Col wasted no time going into business for himself. Receiving most of his initial work from local architects he was eventually recognised for building luxury homes and high quality commercial buildings. “There was always a sense of determination to start up my own building company in Cairns and achieve success and recognition for myself and Neater as Master Builders,” he says. “Establishing Neater was

definitely a milestone in my life.” Specialising in prestige homes, commercial and industrial projects, Neater Constructions offers a multi-disciplined construction service across North Queensland. Their highly experienced staff have a detailed knowledge of the local market and a well established

network of suppliers, subcontractors and happy clients. And above all, they are committed to providing a safe and professional service. “We operate strictly under an Integrated Management and Safety System compliant with AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 and all of our staff are trained in the use of the quality

102 I CairnsLife

management system,” Col says. With commercial building projects ranging from a small office fit-outs to multi-storey construction, the team at Neater Constructions is involved from the initial design development stage and aims to deliver the most cost effective outcome possible. “Our reputation is directly attributable to the quality of products delivered, services, skill and dedication of our people,” Col says. “I strongly believe our team is our most valuable asset.” Committed to quality design and construction, Col is also focused on ensuring the company’s longevity. “Family members are involved in various areas throughout the company and are being groomed to one day take the reins so that I can have a holiday occasionally without worrying about the day to day operations,” he laughs. “Builders come and go for various reasons, but Neater are still here and will be for many years to come.”

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NORTH QUEENSLAND

BUSINESS helping Cairns breathe healthy air

Over the recent sweltering summer, Clay Hawker’s

“I’ve opened up air conditioners and seen some truly

premature break-downs, shortened lifespans, and reduced

business, HydroKleen FNQ , experienced a substantial

increase in customers looking to avoid breathing

animals, maggots, putrid sludges and alive-looking

A study conducted by Ergon Energy has shown that

contaminated air in their homes or businesses.

moulds to name a few.

professionally cleaned air conditioners on average used

His business provides a comprehensive service and clean

between 11 to 20 percent less power than their dirty

for split system air conditioners, using non-harmful

from the inner workings can grow moulds and bacteria,

counterparts.

cleaning products and specially designed equipment to

pushing harmful particles throughout the room, at which

remove contaminants from all internal components of air

point they can be breathed, land on food, or just form

having their air conditioning systems cleaned, they usually

conditioning units.

part of the general dust that gathers within the household.

jump at the chance to have it done,� Clay says.

For many people, the idea of having their air conditioners

“Until an obvious problem occurs where the unit leaks

“And when they see what comes out, they’re almost

cleaned isn’t a front-of-mind issue, however, Clay says

water or stops working altogether, it’s easy enough not

always shocked.

to worry about your air conditioner, all the while you’re

“It’s a small price to pay to ensure that you and your

for the sake of their health and their family’s health.

breathing in a range of harmful spores and germs that

family are breathing healthy air.�

“Many people will regularly spring clean their homes, but

can lead to some serious health problems.�

In addition to potential health issues, the build-up of

For more information about HydroKleen FNQ, call

your air conditioners HydroKleened,� he says.

contaminants in air conditioning units can lead to

Clay on 0438 678 769

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Sustainability

Going Green in the Office By Mark Linder

Have you been planning for your office to go green for a while? There really is no time like the present for you to change some of the habits in your office to save the environment and save some money. Simple changes in the office can have profound results, and it’s never too early or too late to start making changes.

Making your office environmentally friendly won’t take years, and it won’t take a lot of money. In fact, it will barely take any money, and it’ll happen very quickly. In the long run, it will actually save your office money, which could mean for more bonuses for your hardworking staff. Check out these ways that your office can go green, and adopt as many as you see fit.

You’ll save money on paper and printer ink, and you’ll also save time by not having to wait for the printer. If you switch to electronic invoices, you’ll end up saving a significant amount of money on stamps, and it will be easier to keep track of things. Switch as many of your physical documents to electronic documents today, and you’ll start saving a lot of trees.

eDocuments

Water

No matter what kind of business it is, offices tend to use a lot of paper. From faxes to memos to receipts and invoices, offices use a lot more paper than they really need to. Opt to use less paper by switching as many things as possible online. Instead of memos, use emails. Instead of mailed invoices, email virtual invoices. Switching all of your paper into the virtual world means easy document management, because you’ll no longer have to dig through massive files to find a document when all it takes is a simple search online.

One of the most environmentally detrimental things in the office is the water. If you provide your employees with plastic water bottles, stop immediately. These plastic water bottles are terrible for the planet. A water cooler is a great alternative to expensive plastic bottles, but take it a step further from that. Many companies with water coolers provide single use plastic or paper cups for employees. These usually last for one or two water fill ups, and then are tossed in the trash. Invest in some nice BPA free water

104 I CairnsLife

bottles for your employees, perhaps with your company’s name on them. You’ll be producing significantly less waste as a company, and you won’t have to spend money on those paper or plastic cups anymore.

Break Room A lot of single use items tend to be in the break room in many offices, so making changes there can have big impacts. For starters, stop purchasing plastic and paper plates for your employees to use. Instead, invest in some dishes, and make it a rule that employees must wash whatever it is they use. This goes for utensils, too. As far as cleaning supplies go, purchase nontoxic whenever possible. Nontoxic cleaning supplies are much better for both the environment and for your employees’ health. Make these simple changes in the office, and you’ll see big results quickly.

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Ab breath reath o off T To o ďŹ nd out how how yyour our home ccan an be cl cleaner, eaner, healthier and happier ccontact ontact yyour our local local ENJOpr ENJOpreneur eneur 054 6559. Anne on (07) 4054

enjojo.com.au enj .com.au

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CairnsLife Lance April 2013_Layout 1 24/03/13 10:38 AM Page 106

PlantLife Charm Char m your your garden gar a den with with

Charcoal harcooall

Neil Hughes, renowned long time horticulturalist at Limberlost Nursery and Garden Centre, Freshwater.

Pandorea Jasmanoides

A quick dash around most of Cair ns’ new subdivisions, shows paling treated pine fences (usually full height) in abundance with the back yard barricaded offf from the front yard. These fences are both ffo or security and ! war m timber colour and then fade to a silvery grey. To stayy at that colour would be char ming but the tropical sun and rain add its own colour within one season, that of a mouldy mot ley rot t ing shade of g re e n/g rey. Wha t was once a fe at ur e wit h t ha t rust ic characte r is no w a sad sit e inde e d. T he solut ion is a simple t w o st e p plan w hich is r e la t ively e asyy, ab le t o be done by most pe ople and is ve r y cost eff ffect ive ffoor a g re at out come. Firstlyy, the fence needs to become invisible, a neutral back ground which allows you to not ffo ocus on the fence but cast your gaze on more desirable things in your black rendering them invisible. Black is just too stark foor the garden but charcoal grey is the next best neutral colour and is dark enough to hide any defects and mouldy stains in the timber palings and creates that canvas on which to displayy something beautiful. My faavourite charcoal colour is a Haayme y s colour called Charcoal. It comes in a timber paint that doesn’t need undercoating. As well as drastically changing the colour of the timber slats, it prolongs the life of the fence considerablyy. Secondlyy, a rambling or neatly trimmed creeper (depending on your taste) lazing along the fence with ! leaves becomes a beautiful backdrop to the garden. All sections of the fence can be complimented with

106 I CairnsLife

vines especially areas close to the house where space is tight creating that vertical garden look. Choose a vine that is able to climb on a fence but will not take over. There are many vines available in the tropics but some of my faavourites are the Pandora Viine (Bower of producing masses of clusters avvailable in three dif ifffe f rent colours, dark pink, white and light pink with a delicate fooliage. The latter vine comes in two difffe f rent colours, ! hanging from the stems. Both vines will grow in full sun to part shade. At Limberlost we haave many other stunning tropical vines. ! on the fence will now stand out on a newly invigorated charcoal coloured palings. The splashes of colour will contrast remarkably and give your garden that pizazz.

Tecomanthe T eecomanthe V Venusta enusta e

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StyleLife

Fashionable

New lamp Easel Celebrate the Florence Broadhurst designs

“Their effort o lessness and grace will accomodate a dressing of almost an ny style.

foorecasts. More pastels and more brights, more bold and beautiful than ever. Grey is the new black and greens and blues remain foorever popular with teal tipped as our shade of the season. As usual Coast is out there with colourr, cleverly combining its mplicaated looks with new designer love of relaxed and uncomplica

“W We are lo oving v our new table range- beautifully crafted Scandinaavianv inspired designs, stunningly simple, elegant pieces,� said Coast owner Alan Blake.

“W We’re also enjoyyiing iconic designer pieces such as our 1920’s Eileen Graay side-table, a nod to a past great who revolutionised modern furniture design,� Alan said. iconic Florence Broadhurst remain a faavourite,� he said. Furniture has a stifff rival in the home couture stakes. “Floor fashion is fast becoming the most desirable luxury item in home stylingg,� , he said. Coast is home to new dramatic statement wall art that

will ‘get a room rocking’. “ We haave introduced some showstopping Marimekko prints and the Designer Boys to our range,� Alan said. ove a neutral stage “When it comes to soft furnishings we lo thatt allo ows w our o new range of cushions, lamps, homewares, and personal treasures to mark the style and personality of the room. This waay the space can be easily changed without breaking the bank.� haave just arrived and are a great waay to rein nvvigorate your living space.�

CONFUSED ABOUT COLOUR? COAST STYLISTS CAN HELP YOU TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME. “We combine your much-loved treasures with new pieces to create a style you’ll love living with ...�

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108 I CairnsLife

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Investment & Property

PROPERTY STANDS THE TEST OF TIME property investing demands careful analysis. The “strategy” that investors used to adopt was to buy a house, then sit back and watch it double over 10 years. Unfortunately this is no longer the predominant trend. Today only around 50% of residential property will double over 10 years, with this figure moving towards 40% on current projections. hen you look at the contribution of residential property to our economy, it’s easy to see why so many people use property to create wealth. Currently Australian residential property is valued at around $4 trillion. That’s almost the size of our share market, super and GDP combined! Think about it, everybody you know lives in a property, but how many people live in a “share”?

It’s not uncommon to hear tragic tales of property investment turned sour. So where do people go wrong? Quite simply, they don’t have a strategy.

Just as haphazard share purchases are tantamount to gambling, successful

Build a plan to succeed. Hope is not a strategy.

W

How can you succeed in residential property in the new age? Define your goals. Pinpoint your destination or you will struggle to head in the right direction.

Find a mentor/partner. Learn from their successes and note where they have made costly mistakes. Understand the POWER COMPOUND GROWTH.

OF

TAKE ACTION! Apple co-founder Ron Wayne sold his 10% stake for $800 because he saw company ownership as too risky. Today his share would be worth OVER $35 BILLION. Yes you need to plan, but eventually to move forward and succeed, you need to take the first step. Give me a call today and let me show you how to succeed – FOR FREE. (Well actually, for a cup of coffee!) Supporting you in your success.

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Test of! Time

Special Feature

Ash and Michelle Our success is down to our respect for each other From humble beginnings in the back of a garage, Ash Moseley Homes has gone from strength to strength to become the multiaward winning building firm we know today. Now operating from their designer showroom in Smithfield, owners Ash and Michelle hope to continue building on their solid reputation by constructing high quality, individual style homes. Originally from the Atherton Tablelands, the couple met 26 years ago when Ash was just starting out as a carpenter and Michelle was working as a receptionist and trainee accountant. During this time they began utilising the daylight hours after work each day in order to have a home to move into after they were married. “For the first eight weeks we

didn’t have a kitchen and with no money for floor-coverings we had a bare concrete slab for the first 18 months,” Michelle says. ‘Yet our first home is still fondly remembered by our children Rhiannon and Ethan. Rhiannon would live back there in a heartbeat because to her it will always be home.” From there, the couple established Ash Moseley Homes in 1990 with Ash’s parents their first client. “We displayed their new home to the public for six weekends which was literally our starting point,” Michelle says.” We picked up a few contracts straightaway as people admired the design and were wowed by the attention to detail and workmanship.” Ash also recalls that at the time suburbs were virtually being built overnight.

“Sometimes up to 30 tradesmen would congregate at smoko time in a garage of one of the homes being built in the street – these were really boom times. The pie vans fought for their territory,’ he laughs. Ash and Michelle put their company’s success down to teamwork. Both say they have a deep respect for each other and the loyal sub-trades that have been with them since the very beginning. “Ash and I have always worked well together,” Michelle says. “We have distinct roles in our business and try not to step on each other’s toes!” With Ash the principal contractor and Michelle the estimator, the company has expanded to become a complete family affair. Daughter Rhiannon works on reception as

110 I CairnsLife

well as assisting Michelle with accounts administration, client selections and the general running of the office, while son Ethan, a qualified carpenter, enjoys being involved in the construction of their custom built homes. Both Ash and Michelle says one of the key advantages of building with Ash Moseley Homes is the personal attention a client gets from the entire team.“ We like to keep a grasp on everything,” Ash says. “Excellence in Building is our motto, and we will always strive to achieve this.” Michelle then adds, “Our aim is to build a home for our clients that we would be happy to live in ourselves.”

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Using our EXPERIENCE to turn your IDEAS into REALITY 15 years in Cairns and dealing with a small family business means you will enjoy seeing your ideas become a reality. Come and see us at our unique & fresh new Display Home at 71 City View Crescent City View Parklands off Irene Street.

City View Display Open from 11am to 5pm every Saturday & Sunday

Phone 07 4035 6177 Website www.wedmaierhomes.com.au Bruce 0419 649 294 Baz: 0410 425 157 Display Address 71 City View Cresent, City View Parklands, Mooroobool

111 I CairnsLife

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HomeLife

The home building process

made simple

Many people contemplating building a new home may have a sense of trepidation of the process. It should be an exciting time and your builder will be able to explain the process to you in clear, simple steps. Some of these steps take place before construction can actually start on your block of land. If your contract is subject to finance the builder will require a letter from the financier stating the amount of funds that have been approved. Once this is received, or you pay the deposit, your working drawings for construction approval will be commenced. A soil test is required and should only take a couple of days. Sloping sites around Cairns may require extra engineering for retaining walls, suspended slabs or site drainage. Once your working drawings are completed they will be certified by the engineer.

Your house will also receive a star rating and Energy Efficiency Certification. If you are building in the Hillslopes area in Cairns Regional Council then you will need to select your external colour scheme and some sub divisions require a covenant approval by the developer. Once all these requirements are completed then you should check and approve your drawings. They are then ready to lodge with Council or Private Certifier. This timeframe can take from 3 – 6 weeks depending on the amount of details required. During this time its best to try and get all your colour and product selections done so the builder can be ready to produce orders for suppliers and subcontractors as soon as the drawings are out of council. This is the exciting part of the process where you get to choose colours and finishes that will put a little bit of YOU into

your new home. While you are completing your selections you may have changed your mind on something in your new home and this is the time to sit down and confirm everything with your builder. If there are any variations then they should be priced out for you in writing and signed off now. That way every one is clear on what is going to be included in your new home. If it’s all fairly straight forward you should have approved drawings in a week. If extra council requirements are necessary it may take up to 4 weeks. Now your new home is ready to start construction. First the site preparation will commence and then the construction process. Make sure you are comfortable with your builder as you will be working with them for a long time and this relationship is critical to your peace

by Roslyn Smith Affinity Designer Homes Building Designer & Licensed Builder QBSA 533314 P. 4051 8866 M. 0439 855 851

of mind. Understand the timeframe involved in the preconstruction and construction processes and that way there shouldn’t be any problems along the way. If you have any questions or are unclear on any of the processes ask your builder to explain it to you as a good line of communication ensures the smooth building process. Happy Building!

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