September 2015
Tropical Catering & Events Cover Story
where first impressions last
Take the Samsara journey and allow us to capture your heart and imagination Distributor of Kuka Products Queensland
Much more than a store - Samsara is a lifestyle philosophy that embraces furniture, homewares, culture, art and music from around the globe allowing you to create your own unique sanctuary
47 Moffat Street Cairns • Ph. 4032 3355 • www.samsarafurniture.com.au
L to R – Anne Taylor (Chess Canberra), Neville Robinson (Chess Melbourne), Chris Van Cuylenberg (Chess Sydney), Brian Price (Chess Tasmania), Les Forrester (Chess North Queensland - Greater Northern Removals), Ray Taylor (Chess Toowoomba and Chairman of Chess Moving Australia), Peter Leaf-Milham (Chess Adelaide), Kirsten Forrester (Chess North Queensland - Greater Northern Removals) and Kim Moseley (Chess Perth).
Moving forward BY MICHELLE STACPOOLE
I
n 1986 Les and Kirsten Forrester started their furniture removal business Greater Northern Removals, operating with one truck from their residence in Aeroglen. Focused firmly on providing the best possible service to clients, the Forrester’s ensured from the beginning that their business model was client driven. “We set ourselves apart just on our level of service and attention to detail,” says Les.
“We are wanting to step up a little all the time and improve our business,” says Les. “That was the intention in moving to the Chess Group. They service all of Australia and also it opens us up to the international market so that we can service anywhere in the world.” Rebranding to now be called Chess North Queensland, Les and Kirsten are keen to reassure clients that it’s still business as usual.
“We are very concerned about what our customers think about us and we will adjust our service to meet or exceed those expectations. It’s what has kept us in business for thirty odd years.”
“We haven’t sold, and don’t intend to. It’s the same family business and even as Chess North Queensland, it is still locally owned and operated,” says Les.
Fast-forward to 2015 and the Forrester’s family run business now has a large fleet of trucks, trailers and vans, and depots in Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane. With partners in every major state in Australia, Les and Kirsten can facilitate furniture uplift and delivery nationwide.
“This is a prime opportunity to grow our business in far North Queensland and we look forward to working closely with Les, Kirsten and their team. Whilst nothing changes in the service Greater Northern Removals has delivered in the past, Greater Northern now has the strength of a truly national Group, which also is affiliated globally.”
As an active member of the Australian Furniture Removals Association (AFRA), Les is also on the National Council for AFRA, and is the North Queensland AFRA Chairman. “AFRA is like a self-policing body in the industry. It is an association made up of all the major removal companies within Australia,” says Les. It is this affiliation with AFRA that led the Forrester’s to officially join with Chess Moving Australia, a nationwide furniture removal company with international reach.
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Ray Taylor, Chairman of Chess Moving Australia, is excited to welcome Les, Kirsten and their team on board. “We saw in Greater Northern an excellent reputation in regional removal services, first rate management, and a great opportunity to strengthen the Chess name in this area,” says Ray.
With established clientele that includes Federal and State Government departments, and expertise in servicing the Cape York and Torres Strait regions, Les and Kirsten are confident the new direction will open the business up to more of the corporate market while still investing in the local region. “We’ve lived here for thirty-five years. All our investment is into Cairns,” adds Les. “Even as Chess North Queensland the business is still locally owned and operated, so any money that’s produced locally is spent locally.”
CairnsLife
September 2015
Publisher’s note
T
his month at CairnsLife Magazine, we are crossing borders with two accomplished and media savvy interns, courtesy of Shanghai Second Polytechnic University. Wendy and Katrina (their chosen English names) are creating wonderful digital opportunities for us in China, their selection and translation of material from our last twelve issues provides us with a better insight into the Chinese market and how we as a city appeal to the greater Chinese audience.
E at o ’s R e st au ran t
CASSAN DR A SM I T H
Cairns is not without it’s own pool of young talent. Presenting at last month’s CBWC luncheon our very own Cairns bred, Australian U19 World Champions of White Water Rafting. An articulate and modest group of young ladies, still studying their OP, courageously seeking community support to uphold their title, their story of taking Brazil by storm in 2014, though touted as the underdogs should make us all very proud.
DAV I D L E I TH
We’re delighted to introduce a variety of new articles including Lunch with a Councillor. Our first guest Cathy Zeigler accompanied our in-house writer Michelle Stacpoole for a leisurely and insightful chat. For all those foodies out there, don’t miss a great new global phenomenon that has arrived in Cairns at Eato’s Restaurant; an incredible initiative called Pay-it-Forward, which enables diners to help those in need. We have an expanding team at CairnsLife Magazine; I’d like to introduce our new members, David Leith, Michelle Stacpoole, contributor writer Suzy Grinter and myself, Cassandra Smith, also being reasonably fresh to the group. We’re very excited to present our September issue, please enjoy.
Cassandra
CairnsLife is published by CairnsLife Pty Ltd. Publishers: Jacqui Nolan, Lance Collyer. Sales: Cassandra Smith, David Leith. Editorial: Michelle Stacpoole, Michelle Dryburgh. Accounts: Mary Mitchell. New Offices: 76 Forest Gardens Boulevard. Tel 4041 6981 • www.cairnslifemag.com.au
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For the month of September, CairnsLife Magazine will host two interns from Shanghai Second Polytechnic University (SSPU) as part of their Diploma of International Studies Program.
Coordinated through Banora International Group, 22 students from SSPU are currently on placements with local businesses around Cairns, as well as participating in a program at TAFE Queensland North, focusing on e-Marketing, Public Relations, and Advertising and Design studies. CairnsLife interns Xiaolei Xu and Sixuan Chen are both enjoying their time at the magazine. Sixuan Chen
With experience working in marketing for China Technology Research, and ticketing for the Shanghai Expo, Xiaolei hopes to gain hands on experience in the media industry.
“I am interested in learning about the design of the magazine, as well as the social media side, as it is part of my program at University”, says Xiaolei. Previous work experience at Yi Bao Media Company in Shanghai gave Sixuan an introduction to working in print media, and she hopes to build on her skills during her time at CairnsLife. “I want to learn more about the media industry. I’m very interested in learning about media development for the future,” says Sixuan. Both students hope to work in media and pubic relations when they return to Shanghai.
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C e n t r e S ta g e
Another World Championship
Aussie U19 Girls Rafting Team in training to bring home ANOTHER World Championship to Cairns. In October 2014, 5 school girls from Cairns beat Brazil and Russia to win the World Championship in Under 19 White Water Rafting. It was a hard fought journey with many people doubting them, but they proved with intense work and determination they could do anything. “The team that deserves a big mention is the new U19 Women’s R4 World Rafting Champions – Australia. This team managed to keep Brazil from making it a clean sweep of the top podium position. They’ve had a hard journey to get here, not only the time and distance to travel here but also in the battle to secure the funding and the support which they have proven they definitely deserve” International Rafting Federation White Water Rafting is an extreme sport. There are risks each and every time the girls take to the water, and they have to be at the top of their game to avoid flipping, being caught under rocks and in dangerous currents. Safety is always first, and the girls need to work as a team to keep everyone in the raft and moving together, navigating through the white water and making split second decisions which can have serious consequences. “We love that it is really dangerous, our mums are always freaking out – it’s best if they don’t watch. In Brazil the river was 3 times as wide as the Barron in full flood, there were large whirlpools and when we flipped in training the speed of the water was incredible. In Indonesia conditions will be similar to the Tully so we are confident we will be well prepared” Carina Nixon, team member A World Championship is won through points allocation based on positions and times in 4 unique events – a quick timed sprint challenge, an exciting and physical knock out head to head, a technical slalom course and the downriver marathon event. Under the watchful eye of Wagner Torres, coach extraordinaire, the girls aim to become faster, stronger and smarter than the other countries.
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Steph Seed. Lucy Edington- Chapman, Carina Nixon, Layla Bitolkoski, Maddi Brittain and Gabriella Binks are determined to make sure the World Championship title remains in Cairns and are training 8 times a week to prepare for the competition. From 4 local schools, these high achievers are all maintaining heavy Year 12 schedules, part time jobs and school leadership roles. “We feel so lucky to live in this beautiful city where we can finish school, and be on the water in half an hour in the Barron Gorge. We have been supported by so many people in Cairns” Team Captain, Stephanie Seed. Generous sponsorship options are available now, including Fitzroy Island trips businesses can use for pleasure or for your social club. If you’d like to be part of bringing another World Championship home to Cairns please contact Downunder Thunder through: - Downunder Thunder Facebook Page - Far North Queensland Youth Assistance Fund 4051 6590 Other awards: Cairns City Council Achievement in Sport 2014 Cairns City Council Australia Day Award Nomination 2015 Cairns Post Outstanding Achievement in Sport 2014 Further info FACEBOOK page – Downunder Thunder https://www.facebook.com/pages/DownunderThunder/737900039607823?ref=hl YouTube – Downunder Thunder 2015 Promo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SV_AdlrksyM Junior World Champions area declared http://www.internationalrafting.com/2014/10/junior-worldchampions-are-declared/
CairnsLife
Jason Coleman is hot property in the show biz world. The former “So You Think You Can Dance Australia” judge and choreographer of the opening and closing ceremonies of the Sydney Olympic Games is currently touring with his world class cabaret show Spiegelicious, and children’s show Animalastic, performed in a 97 year old Belgian Spiegel Zelt.
WORDS BY MICHELLE
CairnsLife recently caught up with the international performer, choreographer, director and producer to get the low down on the show and his passion for teaching kids to dance.
STACPOOLE
What drew you to creating Spiegelicious and Animalistic? I heard that a guy by the name of Jason McPherson was bringing a 97 year old magnificent, beautiful Spiegel Zelt out from Belgium, so I went down and saw him and said I’d love to produce the shows for you. I put together a business plan and we launched the show for the Sorrento season last summer. We sold out in three weeks for a twelve-week season. The style that I’ve created here is real fusion; a hybrid of sizzling song,
dazzling dance and sensational circus. It’s amazing, uplifting, fun, spectacular cabaret. While in Cairns you are conducting workshops with dance students. What motivates you to invest as heavily as you do in young performers? It’s about giving back and to inspire, particularly younger boys in dancing schools in the smaller towns; the younger versions of me. I believe that the skills that kids obtain while being involved in dancing schools and performing arts in general will serve them for the rest of their lives, whether they grow up to be performers or not. What advice do you have for dancers wanting to make a name for themselves in the world of show business? Work out what is unique about you and exploit it. Be the best version of yourself that you possibly can. In this business you want to stand out. If you’re the shortest girl in the room, own it; be that shortest girl in the room and you will be celebrated for that.
Spiegelicious runs until 29th September. Book at www.ticketlink.com.au
Enrol now Opening 2016 Construction of MacKillop Catholic College, Mount Peter is underway! Stage 1 will be completed this year, in time for the 2016 school year. Prep to Year 3 will be offered in 2016, with the College growing progressively over future years to reach full Prep to Year 12 status. Enrolment applications are now being taken for 2016, and future years. Enrolment enquiries can be made to the College’s Principal, Luke Reed on 4045 5262 or email office.mountpeter@cns.catholic.edu.au Alternatively, visit the temporary office of MacKillop Catholic College at Piccones Shopping Village, Edmonton, near Brumbies and opposite the Post Office. Application for Enrolment forms are also available on the College website at www.mackillopcatholiccollege.qld.edu.au
Inspiring Hearts, Minds and Spirits
www.mackillopcatholiccollege.qld.edu.au 7
CairnsLife
In
your opinion , what makes
C hinese
visitors during
C airns
so attractive to
C hinese N ew Y ear ,
and what
does the region need to offer to capture other markets ?
At last, a Spiegeltent is on it’s way to Cairns! featuring... cabaret, song, dance and aerialists in two world class shows. The Herald Sun announced Jason Coleman’s Spiegelicious to be “the hit show of the Coast”.
Jason Coleman’s Spiegelicious and Animalastic Opens August 26, 2015, Spiegel Zelt by the Lagoon Eastern Events Lawn, The Esplanade, Cairns
Harriet Ganfield HEAD OF TOURISM SALES GBR HELICOPTERS
“a true gem... rustle up your friends and get down there”
Jason Coleman’s Spiegelicious is an Last summer, Melbourne explosively charged show designed audiences were treated to to tantalize, titillate and amaze! As two sell-out, phenomenally a celebration of all things delicious, Spiegelicious is a humorous successful shows, Spiegelicious hybrid of world class cabaret, song, dance and circus. In two 35 and Animalastic. Both shows minute MANAGER acts, you’ll be amused, amazed and awestruck! Do not are performed GROUP in a 96SALES year-old AND MARKETING MERCEDES GONZALEZ TRAVEL MANAGEMENT HOTELS AND missTOURISM this Premiere Event in Cairns! original Belgium OCEAN Spiegeltent, known as the “Spiegel Zelt”. During the day, the Spiegel Zelt will feature an all new
Martina Neidig
“
Mercedes Gonzalez
Great Barrier Reef is children’s show – Animalastic. This unique purpose-built show From their first performances, ticket sales tookThe off,World and famous in an Australian has a of distinctly human twist! It is an incredible opportunity to no time the whole season was sold out! Now it isdefinitely Cairns’ THE turn highlight Chinese New Year is traditionally a holiday for Chinese visitors. Chinese love to visit Chinesekingdom new year through is the mostthe important experience the wonders of the animal when the Spiegel Zelt opens on the Eastern Events Lawn on time to spend with family and, as it is a world heritage listed attractions, experience our celebration of theand Chinese Calendar. art of clever puppetry, state of the art costuming, set to a August 26, 2015. national holiday, travelling is an inherent coastal lifestyle, and the simplest of things often Apart from the convenience of China funny and entertaining score! The journey commences in the part of it. Over the last decade the missed by tourism marketers; our blue skies, sunshine, For almost 100 years Spiegeltents (Dutch for mirror tents) have Southern offering direct flights into Cairns backyard. It is here that we meet our Chinese traveller travel itineraries crystal clear waters. market adore theAustralian colour travelled through& Europe and have been and used as dance halls, Thisquintessential for the festival, Cairns has a large Chinese have changed dramatically and the Chinese are in the reef, the corals and marine life and as we at characters Hip-Hop based teen lead us through this expat that community which embraces theallNew Year bars and entertainment salons. These elaborate handmade travelling internationally more frequently and to Sunlover experience every day, they areall-dancing so excited athilariouscelebrations singing, feast of wildlife. Witness the Fairy with a wonderful parade through timber and canvas The structures resemble circus big tops and more challenging destinations. most luring being photographed next to such a large and gentle fish the city centre. Also, Cairns boasts many Penguins dancing, see the Rosellas flying, and even hear theChinese are adorned with velvet, brocade, stained glass and mirrors. attraction for the Chinese to visit Cairns is the as Wally (the Maori Wrasse) as well as discovering Nemo restaurants which partake the celebrations and roar of the Lions in this clever, all-human animalinexperience! Featuring wooden these Great Barrier Reef -athis iconic floor marvelencircled is on just by glamorous and greenbooths, sea turtles during their day at Moore Reef. help to you make it ayour real kids cultural experience Jason Coleman added, “By the time and leave, you mayfor both about everyone’s ‘bucket-list’! Whether seasoned Besides developing our existing markets, the region structures are a delight to abehold. the visitors and the local community. We have WHAAAAAAALE!!!!!” traveller or a first-timer their eyes are always fixed needs to constantly put forwardeven new speak high quality services some amazing Chinese restaurants in Cairns and From August 26, 2015toJason on seeing the reef. But as we all know this region and experiences capture the global Experience Seeker this certainly is and a bonus for the Chinese Tickets* for Jason Coleman’s Spiegelicious Animalastic are on visitors. Coleman’s Spiegelicious is playing has so much more to offer and this is exactly what market. Sunlover Reef Cruises continues to develop new This mix of cultures, together with and our unique sale now. Spiegelicious tickets start from $69.50 per person our visitors are discovering when they arrive. Those in Cairns at theof Eastern Event ways experiencing the Cairns and Great Barrier Reef attractions such as the reef and rainforest from(UK/ only $34.50. There is also a great deal on the makes on tight itineraries are finding there is not enough to international eastern Animalastic (Asian) and western Lawn, Theregion Esplanade. our city one of a kind. We are starting to see Animalastic Family Pass for only $99.00, which admits four. time to experience all in one trip. Those who Europe, USA and NZ), and domestic markets, including commitments from other airlines introducing The Australian’s Chris Boyd described the show as “...polished are travelling more freely and independently are the launch this week ofand a new overnight pontoon product; directorflights Cairns Book at www.ticketlink.com.au call into 1300 855which 835. plays a vital part on sophisticated.” Papabayj added that that makes it look like venturing further afield and experiencing more but,“DancingSunlover By Starlight, which will help the region capture attracting a larger inbound market.” like Rubik’s Cube, the combinations are endless!” high-end Glampers, Meetings*Spiegelicious and Incentive Broadway in there... boundless energy from curtain up to curtain down... is for markets mature audiences only. It contains adult themes, partial nudity (ultimate team building eventsreferences. on the reef), and sexual Booking fees and credit card charges may apply. it’s a true gem... rustle up your friends and get down there corporate while it lasts”.
“
“
“tantalize, titillate and amaze!”
and other adventure markets.”
On Sale nOW!
“Polished and sophisticated” The AusTrAliAn
“The hit show of the coast” herAld sun
STARRING
Jason Coleman
26 aug - 29 Sept, 2015 SpIegel Zelt BY tHe lagOOn
EASTERN EvENT LAwN, ThE ESpLANAdE, CAIRNS
1300 855 835 www.ticketlink.com.au
TickeTs FROM $69.50pp
*Booking fees and credit card charges may apply. PresenTed BY
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CairnsLife
An officiAl cAirns fesTivAl evenT
G RUMP Y OLD M AN
with
Danny Betros It’s Date Night. Please give me some peace and quiet.
O
ne of my great joys in life these days is going out for dinner on date night with my loving wife to have some fine food, great wine and maybe even a bit of romance. We’ll even hold hands in the event that I put my wine glass down, however regular checking of the footy score if the Broncos are playing has proven to be a bit of a mood adjuster. So it was with great amusement that I read the latest dramas about the restaurant in Yungaburra banning kids under the age of seven from the dining experience. I cheered for the Restaurateur. Way to go! I vote for peace and quiet. It amazes me that people want to take young kids to a fine dining establishment. My idea is to go and have a nice romantic dinner and then, if I am lucky, go home to dance the horizontal hokey pokey. These days however, once we hit the Anderson St roundabout in a taxi on the way home, sleep seems so much more inviting. Kids and upmarket restaurants don’t generally mix. Neither does over-tired, grumpy kids that need extra sleep the next day and parents nursing red wine hangovers. What does work is getting a baby sitter for the evening and then using the Wiggles to keep the kids quiet the next morning. They were the most valuable and treasured DVD’s in our house. I owe those guys big time. When we were raising our kids my greatest irritation was PPS (Perfect Parent Syndrome). You know the type. Knows everything, kids are always the best, most
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CairnsLife
popular, perfectly behaved, eat everything they should blah blah. Generally a walking migraine, they are massively painful and always great bull-shitters of the truth. In general, people I preferred to stay away from. Let’s face it - none of us have perfect kids. All have their bad moments. And what about the “big” kids in restaurants? I’ve seen domestic arguments with wine glasses tipped over in anger and loud mouth idiots speaking on their phones for all to hear their business conversation. I’ve seen attractive yet questionable ladies with business associates I have been invited to dine with, women who thought they were going to perform at a strip club but ended up at the restaurant, and waiters behaving very very badly. I’ve had a snot nosed kid crawl under my chair and throw spaghetti at my wife, with the parent horrified that I asked her to remove her toddler. She in turn complained to the waiter about us complaining, all the while her hubby sat there drinking his 15th VB. I’ve seen a small brat around four years old systematically destroy every vacant dining table by pulling everything off the table, while his older aged, grinning, dickhead of a father followed him with a video camera and thought it was just the best. I’ve seen people still smoking near dining areas with kids in prams. Yep, it still goes on. Some people have a very strange view of normality and they are out there living amongst us. Can someone please give me the number of that restaurant in Yungaburra?
C O n v e r s at i o n s
i n t e r v i e w
Lunch with our Councilors
Cathy Zeiger
As the Councillor for Division 3 starts chatting, it quickly becomes clear how passionate she is about representing her constituents on the south side of Cairns. Citing the recent controversy surrounding Laurel Avenue in Mount Sheridan, where residents have strongly objected to the road being extended through the estate, Cathy talks about her endeavour to find an alternative to the current plan before council. “Just because it’s written in stone doesn’t mean you can’t challenge it,” says Cathy. “I don’t mind a good fight.” After meetings with both the Mayor and residents to discuss the topic and come up with a viable alternative, Cathy believes that success is imminent. “We’ve had a meeting with the developers, and I think we’re at the point were we are going to get a good outcome, so that’s really rewarding,” says Cathy. While she is not afraid to stand up and press for outcomes to go in her favour, Cathy admits she was surprised when offered the role in the seat recently vacated by Rob Pyne. “When I got the call that the Mayor wanted to see me, I laughed and thought “Oh, of course he does”,” says Cathy. “I remember racing home thinking “I’ve got to frock up, I’m going to see the mayor!”” she laughs.
Cathy feels that her skill set has enabled a smooth transition into the Division 3 chair.
With a background in the not for profit sector and working with disadvantaged youth, Cathy’s ability to connect with people and identify needs has benefited her immensely. “It takes time to learn the council protocol and procedures, but as far as connecting and just getting out there, I’m hyperactive so just let me at it,” says Cathy. “I consider it an extreme privilege to be doing what I’m doing,” she adds. While doing youth work with Rock Impact, a not for profit organization, Cathy established the Free School Breakfast Program.
Special Needs school, to be built adjacent to Woree State High School. “Building for that should start in December, so that’s pretty exciting,” she says.
While dedicated to improving the lives of the youth in the Division 3 area, her passion also extends further afield.
“
When I got the call that the Mayor wanted to see me, I laughed and thought “Oh, of course he does
“
To describe Cathy Zeiger as energetic would be an understatement.
Initially launched into Whiterock State School to assist the disadvantaged youth of the area, the program has now kicked off across 14 local state schools in the Cairns region.
Cathy is currently preparing for her annual trip to Kenya, where she directs the charity BIG International. “BIG stands for Boldly I Go,” she explains. “It was established so each child can go boldly through education, and to ensure their medical needs are being met.” She points out that it is not just the children that the charity assists, but also their parents and carers.
“A lot of carers are not educated. So by educating the carers, whether old or young, they can go boldly forward into a life of fulfillment,” she adds.
“Once we got Woolworths on board to support it we were away,” says Cathy.
When I ask the question how Cathy herself plans to go boldly forward, she is quick to respond.
As Division 3 Councillor, Cathy is also on the advisory committee for the new
“I’m saving every penny I get because I’ll run for re-election,” she says.
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CairnsLife
“It’s a blessing to be nominated to go in on my skill set, but I’d like to continue using that skill set for the benefit of the people,” adds Cathy.
Running as an independent councilor, Cathy will need to fund her own campaign. “Because I’m not political I’m not associated with any political party, and I think that’s great for local government,” she says. “Isn’t it better to make decisions on what local people want rather than what a political party dictate? It’s local government, not federal or state politics. I can be independent. I get on well with the current team and we work really well together, so I’ll put everything into it and hope I get reelected,” she adds. Cathy believes the financial struggles her family have experienced since her husband lost his building company during the Global Financial Crisis have further fuelled her desire to channel everything into helping others. “Nothing in life is wasted. Every experience you go through you can use, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to benefit another person in some way. That way you turn around stuff that probably wasn’t going to be that good and do something with it,” she says. As Cathy races off to her next appointment, a meeting with the Hmong community to assist with a bureaucratic issue in relation to their housing, I’m left with little doubt that that the constituents of Division 3 are in very capable hands.
Advancing cairns
Return On
Investment BEFORE YOU TURN AWAY THINKING THAT THIS IS A PITCH FOR SOME MAGNIFICENT INVESTMENT SCHEME THAT WILL BRING YOU UNTOLD RICHES… WELL… IT ACTUALLY MIGHT BE.
M A R K M AT H E W S / / C H I E F E X E C U T I V E / / A D VA N C E C A I R N S
I’m not talking about a financial investment with a direct monetary return; what I mean is an investment in our region for future growth and prosperity. Advance Cairns was born out of the desire of our region’s leaders some 12 years ago to ensure that our economic future was not left to the ebb and flow of politics and changing governments. And that we had a clear sense of purpose and regional unity. Advance Cairns is the forum that brings the key leadership together for the benefit of our region. Our members are organisations and individuals who share a common desire to ensure our region is prosperous, and that there is a strong future for our families, and their families. We are not a forum of ‘developers’ in the bricks and mortar sense. Our work is to advocate for infrastructure and policy that will benefit our region,
Queensland, Northern Australia and the nation as a whole. It is that unity of purpose that drives success. Collaboration between our region’s many organisations and groups has shown the strength in the ability to achieve lofty goals. The development of our international airport, our world class convention centre, and more recently regional commitments in the Northern Australia White Paper are examples of success from collaboration. It is the multiplier effect that we can achieve when we collaborate well, combine efforts and work in unison to a common goal. Such collaboration does not come without investment. It requires effort to communicate effectively, to understand your role and the role of others, capabilities and weaknesses; not only of others but also of ourselves. The Cairns region stands out nationally, and internationally, with 13
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an ambitious regional economic development plan that spans 20 years. The Tropical North Queensland Regional Economic Plan is a landmark document which has agreement amongst multiple stakeholders at multiple levels. To achieve such collective agreement, in itself, is an achievement. We must be proud of our unity in bringing this document to completion. The challenge for us ahead is to work together in that same shared sense of purpose to achieve the ambitious goals we have set ourselves. And ensure that the plan is a ‘living plan’, reflecting the aspirations of those who worked to develop it. There is no ‘rocket science’ here… but the price of disunity or lack of shared purpose can be at best disappointing and at worst catastrophic. It is that clarity of goals and objectives, and unity of action that will take us there and beyond, and bring us the greatest return on investment.
E n t e rta in m e n t
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A Night to remember with...
Ben Murphy Ben Murphy was born to perform magic. As a young boy growing up in Brisbane he was always attempting to impress audiences with his tricks. After receiving five dollars, a can of coke, a lamington, and an orange as payment for performing for a group of strangers in a park, the youngster promptly set his sights on the big time. “To this day I’ve still got that lamington and orange framed and sitting by my bed. Everyone keeps their first pay cheque right?” deadpans Ben. Graduating to performing at children’s birthday parties at McDonalds for five dollars a show, Ben knew he was on the path to success. Now with sell out shows in the USA and China, and performances for the Australian cricket team, international celebrities, royalty, and even magician David Copperfield among his credits, Ben is back in Australia to bring his new show Illusion Impossible to Cairns. “This show is entirely brand new and just for Cairns,” says Ben. “There won’t be a single trick in the show that audiences have seen performed live before in Cairns,” he adds. Ben points out that his ability to make amazing shows without taking the “magic” too seriously is what sets him apart from other illusionists. “The show is a bit tongue in cheek,” he says. “Magic is not the main focus. It is a magic and illusion show, but the main focus is the audience having a good time,” adds Ben. Weaving his unique style of comedy with illusions and effects, Ben will be performing tricks that include him hanging upside 14
down above audiences blindfolded and trying to escape from a straight jacket while attempting to read an audience member’s mind. The world record holder for the most escapes from Houdini’s Chinese Water Torture Cell, beating even Houdini himself, Ben believes that at the end of the day all audiences the world over come to a magic show because whether they consciously know it or not, they want to be wowed. “People always remember their first trick that they saw and I think as we get older we lose that wonderment,” says Ben. “I think it’s important that you can go and see a show and almost go back to that childhood and feel that sense of excitement that a lot of people haven’t felt for years,” he adds. With performances every Wednesday to Saturday night from the 7th October through to 24th December, audiences can witness this grand illusionist and entertainer in action at Velvet Underground in the Reef Hotel Casino. When asked to divulge a magician’s secret exclusively for CairnsLife readers, Ben smiles. “It’s not just smoke and mirrors. Sometimes it’s sticky tape and magnets too,” he says. Book tickets for Illusion Impossible online at www.ticketlink.com.au or phone 1300 855 835. For a chance to receive a $10 discount on the ticket price, post a selfi showing this article to Ben MurphyMagician Facebook page. For more information on Ben Murphy visit his website www.benmurphy.com.au
CairnsLife
October 17-18
Imagine having thousands of your target market in one place wanting to know about you and your business
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The Cairns Women's Lifestyle Expo brings together an extensive variety of services and products aimed at today's women. Featuring everything from health and wellbeing to business, career, fashion and beauty products, food and wine sampling, lifestyle products, motoring, homewares and much more!
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What a great way to sell your products, showcase your business and build a database of potential new clients. Attendees will be able to see you and your products up close and you will be taking a proactive approach to building your business. 74
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Shed 2 Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal Contact CairnsLife - Jacqui: 0416 331 125 • Cassandra: 0402 456 011 Michelle: 0414 398 114
CATE R I N G
&
E V E N T S
WH E R E F IRST IM PRESSIONS LAST
The most memorable events are always about more than just a winning menu. BY MICHELLE DRYBURGH
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he ultimate dining experience should be visually stunning too, full of colour, variety and flavour, and shared with good company in a fun, vibrant and comfortable setting.
As well as wait staff, Tropical Catering and Events engaged actual cheesemakers from the Tablelands and their seafood supplier and his family to provide an authentic, market experience.
Most importantly, it needs to have personality and be made with love, enthusiasm and a thorough understanding of the guests.
Among the offerings were extensive beverage choices, tropical canapés and 3000 shelled prawns, which alone took 60 hours of labour to prepare.
The team at Tropical Catering and Events are renowned for offering all that and more, taking out a national award for their excellence at the Australian Tourism Exchange farewell function last year.
“These people had already been to the best of the best, and we wanted to blow them out of the water,” recalls events manager Cathy Alexander.
With just five weeks notice to prepare for the event, the team catered for more than 2000 well-travelled, food-loving tourism delegates, delivering an unforgettable farewell function rated the best in the ATE’s 35-year history. Designed to celebrate the launch of Restaurant Australia, the menu had to feature ingredients from every state and push the boundaries of the stock-standard idea of catering. People are still raving about the modern fish market styled event, with a variety of stalls or ‘food stations’ staffed by friendly, knowledgeable crew.
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Business development manager Joanne Neill described the night as ‘magical’. “To secure the event just five weeks out and bring together what we did was instrumental for Tropical Catering and Events’ reputation. It really is something special.” The team is also the caterer of choice for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, The Great Barrier Reef Masters Games, and several sponsored events at the Cairns Amateurs. But the magic isn’t limited to just major corporate events. Tropical Catering and Events pride itself on providing value for money and creating a memorable occasion for events and budgets of all sizes.
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The team regularly caters for intimate private functions as well as local weddings. There’s an ever-changing selection of dishes to choose from, made from seasonal, fresh local produce, or clients can provide their own concepts for Tropical Catering’s talented executive chef Ben McCarthy and in-house pastry chef to creatively bring to fruition.
its time. Recently acquired by a 100% Australian owned company strongly committed to preserving its unique legacy, the iconic Pacific Hotel continues to lead the way in providing world-class service and style.
“ The Pacific has always
had the willingness to take risks and in doing so become a pioneer in the field,” SAYS CATHY.
“One example is a large wedding we recently catered, with 400 guests. They asked us to create a truly authentic, southern Italian experience, inspired by Nonna’s original recipes,” says Cathy. The team can provide comprehensive event management, as well as styling both the food and the staff to the event theme – such as rockabilly clothing and American diner style meals for an upcoming 1960s rock and roll night. Going above and beyond expectations is what Tropical Catering and Events does best, aided by close relationships with both suppliers and clients. And all this from a core group of just six people, supported by a valued team of kitchen, hospitality and wait staff.
“ We really listen closely
to what our customers want and tailor each event just for them,” SAYS JOANNE.
“I must say Cathy is extremely valuable to this team. She has so many connections that even when there’s an unusual request, she knows exactly what to do and who to talk to, and she doesn’t mind rolling up her sleeves and getting her hands dirty to get it done.”
“Before Bushfire, which is a truly unique dining experience in Cairns, we had Monsoons which was the first wood-fired pizza restaurant here. The Pacific has always been one step ahead.” The Pacific Hotel recently underwent a large, multi-million dollar refurbishment, bringing contemporary styling to all 176 guest rooms, as well as modernising the façade, foyer and public spaces. Improvements were made behind the scenes too, providing staff with more comfortable change rooms and break areas. “The staff here feel truly valued and appreciated and it gives them a sense of ownership, everyone here really loves and owns what they do which is vital to a successful team,” says Cathy. Joanne says the hotel’s way of making business partnerships feel more like extended family makes both suppliers and staff excited to work with them. That same passion, creativity and personalised service has been infused into Tropical Catering and Events, creating a truly unique recipe for success.
That all-in approach is fostered by the top down, nurtured by a long and rich history in catering and hospitality. Along with Bushfire Flame Grill, Tropical Catering and Events is a subsidiary of Pacific Hotel Cairns, locally owned and managed since it was established by the Kamsler family in 1982. The Pacific was the first international hotel in Cairns, originally regarded as somewhat opulent and ahead of
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www.tropicalcateringcairns.com.au
CairnsLife
Council Comment
O N L I N E COMMUNICATION
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nline communication has become an essential requirement for any business, as well as for local government and other organisations. Cairns Regional Council is no exception and we have recently upgraded our online resources to improve the way our community can access information about Council and its services. Our new website was launched a few months ago, making it easier for people to find what they need and to leave feedback on matters of importance. The ability to get the right information quickly and conveniently has been the priority in developing our online resources. We want every visit to our website to be a productive experience. Accessibility has also been considered. A translation plug-in improves the usability for people from non-English speaking backgrounds. More than 10 per cent of people in our community have English as a second language. The new site is fully responsive to suit mobile and tablet devices, which now account for more than half of the visits to our website. We value feedback from our community and one of the biggest changes to the website is the introduction of a comment tool. You can now read about Council’s projects and activities and provide your thoughts right there on the page, much like a news website. An online self-service portal offers secure and convenient payment of things like rates and dog registration and to lodge or search for a Development Application. The credit card surcharge has been removed to increase the convenience of online payments. But aside from Council projects, the website also contains a great deal of information about our region, such as tourist attractions and recreation activities and an interactive What’s On Calendar featuring a range of community events. If you’re looking for a way to fill in a weekend, check out the “Things to do” page with more than 20 free or low-cost suggestions. Visit www.cairns.qld. gov.au to explore the information available on our website. Around the same time as the website, we launched our new e-newsletter Living In Cairns. Each month, this newsletter provides an update on Council activities and information on upcoming events. From time to time, there will be giveaways and competitions specifically for Living In Cairns subscribers. Subscription is easy and can be done via Council’s website. Social media also plays an important role in sharing information in real time, particularly during times of natural disaster or other events that require regular updates. It also helps us share all the great things that are happening in our community. I invite you to follow our Facebook page (Cairns Regional Council) and Twitter account (@CouncilCairns) to stay up to date and to comment on Council activities.
Peter Tabulo
With so many major projects either under way or about to start, our website and social media channels are the best way to stay informed about what’s happening in the region. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve these resources, we’d love to hear from you.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CAIRNS REGIONAL COUNCIL
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VISA CONNECTION
TURNS 7!
Happy birthday to us! Visa Connection is celebrating its seventh year of successful operation this month. At Visa Connection we provide expert and personalised immigration advice to individuals and corporations worldwide. We have a vast knowledge of all areas of Australian migration law, from family migration, student visas, independent and sponsored skill select visas to comprehensive employer sponsored business visa applications, from temporary to permanent residence. We can also assist you in your application to become a citizen of Australia. Visa Connection can assist with selecting the best visa category and with compilation of your application. We will correspond with the Australian Border Force on your behalf
and ensure that you are informed of all communications that relate to your application. At Visa Connection our Registered Migration Agents can guide you through the complex application process, handle the paperwork for you and present your case in the strongest possible way. We adhere to the Code of Conduct of the Office of the Migration Agents Authority (OMARA). Our experienced and highly qualified team are dedicated to ensuring that your needs are met efficiently and professionally. The team is led by principal Registered Migration Agent, Fiona Ryan, who has over ten years of experience in the migration industry. Visa Connection
has a reputation for providing quality service at a competitive price and we are dedicated to ensuring that our client’s needs are identified and properly adhered to. Located inside the Village Lane at 20 Lake Street close to several international consulates, international language and vocational schools and the Australian Border Force, we are easily accessible to both individual and business clients. Visa Connection offers a free initial half an hour consultation to discuss your immigration needs. Please feel free to drop by the office to make a booking or call our office anytime to arrange an appointment today.
Want an Australian Visa? At Visa Connection we provide expert and personalised immigration advice to individuals and corporations worldwide. We have a vast knowledge of: • Australian Migration Law • General Migration Advice • Family sponsored visas • Spouse and Defacto visas • General Skilled Migration • Australian Citizenship and • Work sponsored visas (457 and RSMS/ENS)
Migration Agents Registration Number
0640004
www.mara.gov.au
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Call us today on: (07) 4051 9043 to arrange your FREE half hour cosultation Registered Migration Agents Fiona Ryan, Registered Migration Agent No. 0640004 e info@visaconnect.com.au www.visaconnect.com.au
Team Cairns
take on the BY MICHELLE STACPOOLE PHOTO CREDIT MICK FUHRIMANN
world L to R are: Gareth Colman (Paramedic) • Ian Lawless (Tool Operator) • Michael Balmer (Safety/Medic) • Patrick Scanlan Shane Given (Safety) • Darcy Magee (Tool Operator) • Absent – Ian Fulton (Team Leader)
A S A T E C H NI C A L SPECI A L I ST IN ROAD CRASH RESCUES, FIREFIGHTE R IAN LAW LE SS DE VE LO PE D A PA SSI ON EA R LY IN HIS CAREER FO R WANT ING TO E N SU RE T HAT ACC ID E N T VI CTI M S A R E GI V EN T HE BEST PO SSIBLE O PPO RT UNIT Y FO R SU RVIVAL.
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his dedication led Ian to be one of the founding members of the Cairns Road Crash Rescue Team, known as Team Cairns, or, more affectionately, the Crocs, sixteen years ago.
With the aim of developing new skills in road rescues, Ian and fellow firefighters Ian Fulton, Shane Given, Darcy Magee, Michael Balmer and Pat Scanlan, along with paramedic Gareth Colman, compete in rescue events around the world. “The competitions are about developing new techniques,” says Ian. “The cars of today are getting stronger. They are harder for us to cut up. The people that make the tools have to make better tools, and we have to get better techniques. That’s essentially where these competitions come from.” In October, the team is heading to Lisbon in Portugal to represent Australasia at the World Rescue Challenge. Now in it’s seventeenth year, the competition aims to provide a stage for rescue personnel from around the world to interact while enhancing
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rescue skills that will ultimately save lives. Having placed in the top ten at the last World Rescue Challenge in Florida, USA in 2013, Team Cairns are aiming for a top five finish in Lisbon. Competing across four timed events including the Limited Challenge, where the use of hydraulic and air tools are prohibited and participants are restricted to using a crowbar, a hacksaw, bolt cutters and a socket set to disentangle a car, Ian says the key to the success of the team lies in training and teamwork. “It’s like any sport. Teamwork is the most important thing,” he says. “Devotion to the team is what it’s all about. And making yourself available for training.” While the most realistic training occurs on the roads, the team practice for the competition on their own time. “The practice scenarios are so much more complex than what we
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“We train a lot harder than we compete,” says Ian.
find when we go to competitions. It’s a case of training harder to compete easier.” With the significant financial cost associated with travelling internationally to compete, Ian acknowledges that participating in the challenge in Lisbon would not be possible without local support. “We would be unable to attend the titles without the support of our valued sponsors,” explains Ian. Major sponsors Kennedys Betta Home Living, Panasonic, Fujitsu General, Electrolux Home Products, Fisher & Paykel, and Teco have all contributed significantly. “Kennedys Betta Home Living has been extremely supportive, along with other local businesses,” says Ian. “We take great pride in our local community, and it’s great to know that they are supporting us to hone our skills on an international level.”
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CairnsLife
To find out more about the team or to make a donation to help them compete in Lisbon, please visit Cairns RCR Facebook page.
Socials
Model Savannah
Mainie Launch - Friday 7 August at Wharf One and was attended by representatives from three levels of government - the Hon Warren Entsch, Hon Curtis Pitt MP and Cr. Linda Cooper. The highlight of the evening was a fashion performance showcasing Mainie’s Maiden Collection of 12 unique designs.
Introducing a luxurious new Australian fashion label made in Cairns - of silk scarves in vibrant, sun-drenched colours featuring authentic Aboriginal Dreamtime artwork TO VIEW THE MAIDEN COLLECTION OF 12 UNIQUE DESIGNS, VISIT WWW.MAINIE.COM
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CairnsLife
Socials
WRAP, KNOT & TIE 12 Luxurious silk scarf, wrap and top designs in beautiful, sundrenched colour - featuring authentic Aboriginal Dreamtime artworks
W W W . M A I N I E . C O M W W W . M A I N I E . C O M W W W . M A I N I E . C O
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CairnsLife
In Her Shoes
SALLY MLIKOTA Managing Director of CBC Staff Selection and Aussie Locums, and President of the Cairns Business Women’s Club
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CairnsLife
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Labelling
Sally by Mic helle S tacpoole
Sally Mlikota is obsessed with labels. “I label everything. Any Tupperware, and bowls. If I go to someone’s house with a salad bowl it’s labelled on the bottom. In my son’s room I’ve labelled everything, even his sock drawer, so that when he’s putting his stuff away it’s easier for him,” says Sally. It is an interesting revelation from the Managing Director of CBC Staff Selection and Aussie Locums, and President of the Cairns Business Women’s Club, who readily admits to shying away from uniformity. “I hate structure and order, however I have learnt over the years that if I don’t have structure and order I cannot function,” admits Sally. “I find the everyday boring things that I do have to be ordered. For example I’m really anal about how I hang out washing. I try and systemize a lot of the boring things in my life, such as hanging out the washing, so that I can then be creative,” she adds.
“I’m a good networker,” says Sally. “When I first came to Cairns I didn’t know anyone. I joined the Cairns Business Women’s Club (CBWC) in 1999 because I wanted to meet other women and to get that network around me.” As the recipient of the CBWC Business Woman of the Year Award in 2009, Sally recognizes that along with her networking skills, one of the keys to her success has been her ability to delegate. “The only way I cope now throughout my life is to delegate,” admits Sally. “There is this great quote by former President Ronald Regan that I often use. “Surround yourself with the best people you can find, delegate authority and don’t interfere”,” she adds. “For me it’s about recruiting the right people around you, training them, empowering them, and then shutting up and letting them get on with it.”
It is Sally’s ability to be creative, combined with a little good luck that saw her land her first role in the recruitment world.
It was this ethos that helped Sally overcome her initial fears when she purchased CBC Staff Selection in 2004.
After obtaining a degree in Geography at the University of Leicester in the UK, which, according to Sally, “relates to absolutely nothing”, she took a temping job as a receptionist at a recruitment agency in London.
“I was terrified about buying the business. I didn’t think I could do it,” Sally reveals.
Sally’s creative flair and ability to network saw her move quickly into the role of a recruitment consultant, and set her career path.
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“I questioned whether I could do it. I questioned whether I could do it well. The whole structure and statutory and governance around owning a business frightened me,” she adds.
CairnsLife
In Her Shoes
In order for Sally to overcome her concerns, she identified her strengths and weaknesses and established clear boundaries. “I’m really good at hands on operational recruitment and I’m really bad at compliance and finance. I am however married to a very good finance and compliance person. He doesn’t do the day to day, but my finance and compliance people report to him. I don’t get involved in the parts of the business that scare me. And it makes us successful,” she explains. Sally met her husband John nearly twenty years ago when she was a young recruiter in London looking to employ accountants from Australia and New Zealand.
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I believe one of the most important things that people can have around them is an Executive Coach, or a Life Coach. I have someone who I talk to if I find myself wobbling off the rails with all the balls I’m juggling
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c o n t i n u e d p r e v io u s p a g e s
“My husband is my mentor and my rock; certainly business wise. And he does all the cooking,” laughs Sally.
Sally acknowledges that with all the hats that she wears, there are times where she suffers from “overwhelmia”, a word she heard used recently to describe the feeling of taking on too much. “Do I have it all? Absolutely not. Do I lose the plot? Absolutely yes,” explains Sally. “I believe one of the most important things that people can have around them is an Executive Coach, or a Life Coach. I have someone who I talk to if I find myself wobbling off the rails with all the balls I’m juggling,” she says. As Sally approaches the end of her forties, a decade that saw her move into the world of triathlons in order to challenge herself physically, turning fifty will be about tackling her fears head on.
While working with your spouse can be challenging for many couples, the Mlikota’s have built a solid partnership based on mutual respect for each other’s area of expertise, and a focus on keeping their work and home lives separate.
“The first thing I will do is an Australian Institute of Company Directors course which will take me to the next level; corporate governance and statutory finance. All the things I fear I have to embrace. It will be my time to step up and get out of my comfort zone again,” says Sally.
“It’s very rare that we talk about a work moment at home,” says Sally.
Sally hopes this new direction will steer her toward the boardroom.
“It’s essential. If the merge is too much then you never have a break.”
“I’m already on a couple of boards, but I would like to go to the next level,” she says.
For Sally, part of her success balancing her personal and professional lives is to ensure that she only works school hours. This enables her to spend time with her children, Luke, 16, and Zoe, 15, in the afternoons.
Reducing her working hours to enable her to spend more time with John is also a priority.
“I leave work at 3.15 every day and pick my kids up so I’m a mum in the afternoon. It is really important for me to do that, and for my family, because when I don’t the family falls over,” says Sally. In addition to being a busy mum and successful businesswoman, Sally is also Vice President of the P and F, and manages an Under 16 Soccer team. Her passion for community and charity work led Sally to create the Wheellie Mad Women Great Wheelbarrow team, which in turn led to establishing the Far North Queensland Cerebral Palsy Association. The team has been raising funds for the association for over six years.
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“My kids will be gone on their next journey. I’ll miss them, and it will kill me that they’ve gone, but it’s the circle of life. I’ve got a strong marriage, my husband and I have been married 19 years, so I’ll be able to spend more time with him,” says Sally. Cutting back however does not mean that she will be slowing down. “When I turned 30 I had a panic and thought “Oh my god, that it, life’s over”. Then I turned 40 and I went “Oh, it’s not so bad actually”, and now I’m turning 50 I’m saying “Right, get cracking. This is fun”,” laughs Sally. In spending time with this dynamic businesswoman, mother, volunteer and local identity one thing is abundantly clear. There is no definitive label that fits Sally Mlikota.
CairnsLife
SALLY MLIKOTA
WHAT WE’RE EXCI TE D AB OU T THI S MO NTH
CIRCA BEYOND TO PERFORM FREE FOR THE CAIRNS COMMUNITY
CAIRNS AMATEURS CARNIVAL 11TH -12TH
4TH
From 11am | Cannon Park Race Course
7:30 pm | Fogarty Park | Free event
There is a line between human and animal, between madness and sanity, between logic and dream… We invite you to step over this line…and go Beyond. Seven artists have gathered to express their inner selves and to connect with each other and the audience. We invite you to emerge into a strangely beautiful and curiously tender world.
02.
CARNIVAL ON COLLINS
Horse racing at its best.
FAR NORTH WILDERNESS BIKE TOUR TH
6TH
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9 am | Collins Avenue, Edge Hill
8 am | Cairns and surrounds
Carnival on Collins is a Cairns’ Father’s Day tradition held on the last day of Cairns Festival, when over 25,000 people flock to the city’s Botanic Gardens precinct for a giant day of family fun. Featuring loads of free entertainment for people of all ages, it’s a slice of life in the tropics, with over 250 market stalls offering local art & craft, produce, plants, food and refreshments. The event features entertainment on stage, food, a Fundraising Zone and Kids Carnival in the Botanic Gardens, exhibitions in the Tanks as well as roving entertainers.
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Contact: Melissa McQuillan 4032 1746 An unforgettable mountain bike adventure through spectacular landscapes of tropical North Queensland. Self paced ride spanning 400 kms in 8 days on remote roads and tracks. An intimate and friendly ride capped at 50 riders. Fully catered with home-cooked meals and snacks prepared by our friendly crew.
CairnsLife
The Fictional Woman
QA &
with
Wes and Brooke Evans September is a busy month for Cairns Dinner Theatre.
Brooke: From a young age we have both had a passion for the stage and entertaining people. I’ve danced on cruise ships and have taught dance in Canada and Australia.
the best show to wow our audiences with 5 singers and 8 Dancers.
Before moving to new premises in Lake Street ready to coincide with the opening of their brand new show Bravo on September 11th, CairnsLife caught up with husband and wife team Wes and Brooke Evans to discuss the show, the theatre and their inspirations.
Wes: With my background in hospitality, we decided to combine the two passions and create Cairns Dinner Theatre.
Wes: Guy Laliberté, the owner and CEO of Cirque Du Soliel. He started a small circus style show in Montreal Canada with a group of street performers that has grown to an internationally known entertainment empire. The shows the company produces now are nothing short of spectacular and it all started with a dream of doing something different. He was willing to take the risk and work hard to achieve his goals and I hope we can look back one day and say the same thing.
CL: Why do you choose to call Cairns home? Brooke: I am originally from Cairns, and when left with the choice of Wes’s home town of Toronto or here, we decided to settle in the warmer climate. Wes: Cairns is a beautiful city and we’re loving living here and calling it our home. CL: How did Cairns Dinner Theatre come about?
CL: Your new show Bravo is a combination of seven Tony Award winning Broadway shows in one performance. What inspired you to create the showcase? Wes: We’re always trying to outdo ourselves and make every show more exciting and spectacular. Our first two shows were very interactive and we wanted to create something where people could come and relax, watch a show and enjoy something a little different from what we’ve offered in the past. Brooke: With the Grand opening of the new venue we wanted to open with a bang and felt that Bravo was
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CairnsLife
CL: Who is the person that most inspires you?
Brooke: My husband Wes. He is constantly dreaming up new ways to improve our guests’ experience, from new show concepts to the atmosphere of the venue. He works tirelessly to pull off the show every week and prepare for our future shows. It was his dream to open the dinner theatre in Cairns and I’m so happy I was crazy enough to go along with the idea.
MONICA JAZZ UP NORTH MEGAN TRAPAGA SERIES WASHINGTON
FRIDAY 18 SEPTEMBER
This accomplished jazz singer, actress, author and TV celebrity brings her sassy brand of jazz to Tanks for a night of sheer entertainment.
COST: $40/ $35 (PG) TIME: 7.30PM VENUE: TANK 5 – FULLY SEATED
PETE MURRAY
FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER
Renowned for her brilliant and captivating live shows, Megan really brings her songs to life on stage and continues to impress her audiences with her performances.
COST: $35/ $30 (PG) TIME: 7.30PM VENUE: TANK 5 – SEATED / STANDING
tanksartscentre.com
MUSIC BOTANICA
FRIDAY 2 OCTOBER
SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER
After the highly successful sold out ‘Feeler Anniversary’ tour in 2014, Pete Murray is hitting the road on an extensive national acoustic tour.
COST: $42/ $37 (15+) TIME: 7.30PM VENUE: TANK 5 – SEATED / STANDING
All tickets sold through 32
THE WAIFS
YOURS ACOUSTICALLY TOUR
CairnsLife
Music Botanica concert series returns to the Cairns Botanic Gardens with Australia’s much loved, folk-rock trio The Waifs, launching their brand new album, “Beautiful You”.
COST: $50/ $30 (PG) TIME: 1.30PM VENUE: CAIRNS BOTANIC GARDENS
ticketlink.com.au
LRC15756
TaNKs
ARTS CENTRE
TaNKs 2015
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ARTS CENTRE
I n t e rv i ew W I T H
PLAYING NEXT MONTH
liro Rantala WORDS BY: DINA AMIN
D
abbling in several traditional and contemporary styles, Finnish pianist liro Rantala is hardly what you’d call a prototypical Jazz musician. Although having a profound respect for the bebop and post-bop paradigm and the players within it, Rantala prefers to tackle numerous styles of music — experimenting in melancholy Scandinavian Jazz, classical, tango and Finnish pop. A student of both Jazz and Classical piano, Rantala is a household name both locally and internationally. The award winning pianist will be performing at Tanks Art Centre in October as part of this year’s Jazz Up North series.
IIRO RANTALA (FINLAND)
Born in Helsinki in 1970, Rantala developed his ardent passion for jazz and classical music early on. “At the age of seven my parents joined me in a famous boys choir in Finland – Cantores Minores – and I learned a lot of great Bach choral music and complex compositions,” he says. “We performed regularly and we even went to the US where we sung in front of President Ronald Reagan.”
JAZZ UP NORTH 2015 FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER
With an impressive discography – solo and group releases – under his belt, Rantala has also composed for theatre, film, television and dance productions, undertakings that came a little too easy to the renowned pianist. “I’ve tried everything I admit,” he says. “Everything is a piece of cake compared to a solo piano concert, especially theatre, film and TV work. That’s why I stopped doing that (composing for these mediums) — it was too easy.” One of his countless compositions includes the famous piano concerto ‘Concerto for Piano and Concerto in G#ΔA� ,’ orchestrated by Jaakko Kuusisto.
Unassuming Nordic musician on the outside, zany jazz rebel on the inside, Iiro Rantala has a reputation for taking piano playing to exciting new places. With award-winning solo albums and 2500 international concerts under his belt, Finnish pianist Iiro Rantala brings his celebrated virtuosity to Tanks for a show that will surprise and delight music lovers. Don’t miss this chance to see and hear this musical sensation.
A serious Jazz aficionado, Rantala pinpoints Leonard Bernstein and Keith Jarrett as two of his favourite musicians. He is also quite vocal about his affection for Chick Corea, stating My Spanish Heart as his most beloved Jazz recording. When asked his opinion on the current Jazz scene in Finland, Rantala is quick to point out the weather’s influence on the popular haunting style. “Although most Jazz is played indoors, it’s the cold weather that influences the music,” he says. “However we have a crop of excellent and determined players in Finland who have found their own voices in the music and have developed their own style.” This own style can be heard in Rantala’s compositions as the pianist blurs the boundaries between many sub-genres of Jazz and Classical music.
COST: $30 / $25* (CONC) (PG) SHOW STARTS: 7.30PM – FULLY SEATED TIX: THROUGH TICKETLINK 1300 855 835
MUSIC • ARTS • COMMUNITY • EVENTS • CULTURE
LRC15755
*A transaction fee applies to all ticket purchases.
An upcoming tour with Norwegian saxophonist Marius Neset and a bunch of solo gigs on the back of his brand new LP My Working Class Hero – a homage to John Lennon – will see Rantala round out the year fruitfully. liro Rantala will perform at Tanks Arts Centre on Friday 30th October. Tickets are available through Ticketlink. For more information, please visit www.tanksartscentre.com
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CairnsLife
To say I’m a coffee lover is an understatement. It’s more a necessity for my survival and, perhaps more importantly, for the survival of those around me. If I could find a way to feed my caffeine addiction intravenously I would. But apparently that’s not medically safe. Nor is snorting the coffee grains straight from the jar. So I have to consume it in a cup, just like normal people do. The problem I encounter however is that my lactose intolerant insides protest loudly when I add milk, and the thought of drinking a long black leaves me feeling somewhat wanting. Given the recent controversy surrounding unfermented soy, my options are severely limited. That was until I discovered almond milk.
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OOL
CP STA ELLE
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BY M
I’ve become accustomed to the eye rolls from my co-workers doing the coffee run when I order a double strength almond milk latte, and comments such as “How do you milk an almond?” (Yes, I’m looking at you David) wash over me. When they return however loaded with regular cappuccinos, skinny flat whites and – god forbid – a soy latte as almond milk was not on the menu, I decided to take matters into my own hands and compile a list of pro-almond milk establishments in Cairns to prove that the search is not a fruitless, or should I say almond-less, endeavour.
Paleo Café, Grafton St. The team at Paleo Café has nailed it. Rich smooth coffee and creamy almond milk make a trip into the city in peak hour and trying to find a park without a meter worth it. The Stratford Deli, Kamerunga Rd. With sharp coffee and watery almond milk it’s not the best I’ve had, but when in a hurry will still kick start my morning. Ten One Twenty, Collins Ave I enjoy this café for more than just their coffee. If I’m running late I can grab and go at the window, or if I have more time on my hands I can sit in a corner for hours with my laptop and phone and no-one disturbs me - except to offer more coffee. Good strong coffee that needs extra almond milk. Lime Tree Bar and Restaurant, Trinity Beach Ok, so it’s a bit of a hike from the city, but the vista is sensational and the almond milk lattes are good. Love this joint on the weekends. Eato’s, Grafton St. I really like the concept of this café, a notfor-profit organization where all proceeds go to foundations and charities, but they really need to invest in lids that fit the coffee cups properly. I wore half my latte driving to the office. The bit that I did manage to taste was a little watery, but still palatable.
It was a beautifully crisp day at Trinity Beach recently, ensuring a bustling lunch crowd along the Esplanade.
WORDS BY: CASSANDRA SMITH
My destination was not so much an attempt at a new venue, rather a deliciously tried and true favourite. I keenly wanted to show-off to my Sydney born mother, desperate to prove that not only did we keep up with the ‘two-hat’ crew from southern cities, but we could do so in glorious scenery, with plenty of parking, minus eye-watering accounts to thank us for our patronage. Yes, true lifestyle. L’Unico Trattoria Italiano occupies primo beach front space on the Northern Beaches, demonstrating an ambience so relaxed you could stay for hour, upon hour, upon hour (hmmm, maybe not such a great secret to success after all), location, atmosphere and, in this case, exceptional food. It is possible that I do not need to read the menu. I’m staggeringly boring, ordering the same dish with each visit. So again, in completely loyal fashion, it is Spaghetti Gamberi for me.
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CairnsLife
Al-dente, home made spaghetti with a generous serve of prawns, perfected in a mix of chilli, garlic, white-wine and olive oil. Ah, true bliss! Indeed, I was not alone enjoying a heavenly dining moment. My mother salivated over a delicately flavoured Capelli di Angelo, shelled bugs enhanced in a white-wine, chilli and garlic sauce. Mouth-watering dishes are absolute in their requirement for a complimentary vino. A sophisticated wine list provides the opportunity for us to quaff a Pinot Griggio Franco Baresi from the South Australian Adelaide Hills. A perfect collaboration indeed, wonderful company, authentic Italian food, delicious Australian wine, and excellent service with a heavy accent on the Italian, of course! Mission accomplished. Where would you rather be?
WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO BALI ! ! BOOK YOUR NEXT FUNCTION WITH US TO
5 Nights accomodation at the 5-star W Hotel in Seminyak
*conditions apply contest through til the end of November one entry draw per 10 person function
CORPORATE CHRISTMAS PARTIES, BIRTHDAYS, BUCKS, HENS
(07) 4031 6304
www.thewoolshed.com.au/functions
marketing@thewoolshed.com.au
CAIRNS DINNER THEATRE Presents
! n o i t a e r c t s e als at
l r usic u o M e g c n nin u o n i n W n a ment d
o t ar ain t d w e r A t e i c x ent ony e T f e o 7 r ’ t! ng a We combined i e n s e our g ev
y e in n p i p o g We’v dr cin w n a a j d ou one y o e t in hav l l i w that
Sept, 11th - Nov, 14th
82 Lake St. 4055 3285 www.cairnsdinnertheatre.com
PHOTO CREDIT: NAKIA MORRISON
Masa Yogo It was a dream to open a restaurant on the water that drew multi award winning chef Masa Yogo and his wife Miyuki to Cairns. The couple opened their first restaurant in Kyoto, Japan, over thirty years ago, before moving to Australia and establishing Restaurant M Yogo on the Gold Coast in1997. Based at the Pier since 2005, Restaurant M Yogo presents a menu that fuses the richness of French cuisine with the lighter elements of Japanese food to create a unique dining experience. Chef Masa, rated among the top 50 chefs in Australia, credits his success to a love of cooking, using only the best quality produce and ingredients, and experimenting with different combinations.
Here Masa shares one of his favourite dessert recipes with CairnsLife.
Strawberry Bonne Bouche (makes 6 pieces) Ingredients: 9 chopped strawberries 60g self-raising flour 40g plain four 100g butter 120g custard cream 60g whipped cream 20ml water Pinch salt Icing sugar to garnish Method: Combine self-raising flour, plain flour, salt and water. Knead. Roll out flat about ½ cm high. Stand for 24 hours. Place butter in centre of pastry and fold corners to centre. Roll out then re-fold. Repeat 14 times. Bake on a flat tray at 180 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes. Cool then cut into squares of approximately 6cm x 4cm. To assemble, put pastry square on a plate and top with chopped strawberries, whipped cream and custard cream. Garnish with icing sugar.
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CairnsLife
ILLY &SHAD LISTEN TO
5:30-9am weekdays
You never know who you might bump into at Villa... Modern mediterranean cuisine. OPEN for breakfast, lunch & dinner 7 days a week.
CAIRNS Cnr Esplanade & Alpin Street 4051 9000 MELBOURNE 252 Lygon St, Carlton 03 9650 7990
PHONE: 4031 3033 C o n te m p o ra ry Gre e k C u i s i n e • B a l c o n y w i t h v i e w s o v e r E s plan ad e & C o r a l Se a • F u n c t i o n s a v a i l a b l e
LEVEL 1 CORNER APLIN ST & ESPLANADE CAIRNS (ABOVE VILLA ROMANA) DINNER EVERY NIGHT FROM 5PM • LUNCH: FRIDAYS FROM 12PM 39
CairnsLife
Foodies Likes
PAY IT FORWARD @ EATO’S 45 GRAFTON “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
The World Kindness Movement was founded in Tokyo in 2000, by a small group who envisioned that a more compassionate and peaceful world was possible, and could be ignited by random acts of kindness. Bolstered by the film Pay It Forward in 2000, the kindness movement has continued to grow in strength and numbers, as more and more people shift away from the greediness of the 80’s and the apathy of the 90’s. Brought to the attention of the world by a viral internet post, pending coffees (known as Caffe sospesso) began in the working-class cafes of Naples, Italy, as an anonymous gift, when someone who had experienced some good fortune, would pay for two or more coffees, but drink only one, leaving the others in ‘suspension’, or pending, for someone else. This global phenomenon has now arrived at Eato’s Restaurant, which has been making a difference in the community since November 2014, through empowering school leavers and long-term unemployed people with positive motivation and practical training. Eato’s has one of the highest employment uptakes in the Work for the Dole
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program, and as a non-profit organization, their success directly benefits the Cairns community, including the FNQ Hospital Foundation, YAPS Animal Shelter, Harald’s House and Ruth’s Women’s Shelter. Catherine Pacey and Shannon Swanson (bonafide ‘100% All-Round Rockstars: Committed to Excellence’) run the program, and have created a warm and inviting space, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce and friendly service. The Cairns public have already shown how big their hearts are, writing kind notes on the dozens of coffee gifts (as well as a few meals!) purchased for the Pay It Forward wall. We all know that life can be very testing, and at times you may be a bit down on your luck, or your pay just doesn’t stretch to indulging in a Barista-made coffee, but how comforting to know that the community has your back, and without knowing you or your circumstances, they have opened their wallets to remind you of that… and so, we encourage you to come to Eato’s and ask ‘Has anyone shouted me a coffee?’, because we absolutely love replying, ‘They certainly have!’
CairnsLife
beer review
A
CRAFTY GUY GUY HUNT
craftsman’s beer It is almost every man’s dream to brew beer and if you told me 7 years ago that I would have a large shed housing a microbrewery and champion trophies on the walls, I would not have believed you. My wife bought me a beer making kit for my 28th birthday and my interest grew as I realised there was so much more to making a beer. I wanted more than an average beer, I wanted to experience the challenge of making boutique craft beers. I started to experiment with different styles of beers and different tastes, so I needed to expand my brewing facilities. It didn’t happen overnight, in fact it has been a continual process over the past few years. I custom built a microbrewery in my shed with stainless steel fittings, special pumps, temperature controls and beer chillers. In recent times there has been a rapid growth in boutique craft beer and you can find a little brewery pop up in almost every hipster corner and suburb in the capital cities. Craft beer is a high quality beer that is brewed with all natural ingredients in generally a small brewery. When comparing a craft beer against a more commercial style beer you can taste the difference in freshness, hop characters and aromatics. For the past few years I have been brewing all grain craft beer. Operating a microbrewery means you can experiment with many different flavours in different styles of beer – the sky is really the limit. For the past two years my Gunpowder Pilsner has won Best Speciality Beer at the Palm Cove Reef Feast. I wanted to create a unique beer and the aromatics alone make this an unforgettable beer. Last year I won a second category Best Pale & Blonde – which was an awesome achievement! After last years awards I was honoured to also host acclaimed beer writer, The Beer Pilgrim and local Lion Nathan manager and take them for a tour of my microbrewery. My hobby (obsession) is a fabulous conversation starter as who doesn’t like a cold boutique beer on a hot TNQ afternoon.
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CairnsLife
wine review
Bluewater BAR AND GRILL
INE of the month MICHAEL RYAN BRANCH MANAGER AT MORGAN’S CAIRNS Photo By Nakia Morrison
All our produce is selected from local suppliers who carefully hand pick fresh ingredients to tantalise your ‘taste buds’. Please enjoy matching beer, wine and cocktails with your favourite dish from our extensive wine menu.
$24.50 | 2 Course (Entrée & Main) or $34.50 | 3 Course (Entrée, Main & Dessert)
Choice of one dish for each course Entree Tempura Prawns (3) Chicken Liver Parfait Caprese Salad (V) Main Cracked Pepper Calamari Braised Beef Cheek Wild Mushroom Linguine (V)
The prolific and poetic wine writer Andre Simon famously declared that, “A man dies too young if he leaves any wine in his cellar”. So in tribute to this sterling, albeit morbid undertaking, I look forward to sharing some notes from my own cellar consumption over the next few months. In case you were wondering, Simon got it just about right when he passed away at 93 with just two magnums of Claret remaining in his once vast cellar. This month’s wine is a cool climate chardonnay from the Macedon region of Victoria. I like Chardonnay. There, I’ve said it! No other white varieties can make such complex wine. Australia’s best whites are crafted from chardonnay. Pinfolds’ Yattarna and 311, Tyrells Vat 47, and Giaconda to name but a few, with the only other grapes receiving such critical acclaim being Riesling and Semillon.
Strange that the white wines that populate our restaurant wine lists are rarely in the above group. The ABC (anything but Chardonnay) movement was 20 years ago. Time to move on as our quality winemakers have. 2013 Bress Macedon “Silver Chook” Chardonnay. This wine has a fresh and fragrant spring bouquet of citrus flowers and peach. The palette is long and lean, in the modern Aussie style with impressive mid palette fruit weight supported by subtle French oak and lees contact. Wild yeast fermentation hints at the winemaker’s European influence. Drinking beautifully – just lightly chilled. Too cold and the acid will prevail and spring will turn to winter. Word of the month: Ampelographer – a botanist who specialises in the identification and classification of grape vines. What a job!!
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CairnsLife
Dessert Chocolate and Hazelnut Brownie Coffee Crème Brulee Matching Wines Available Please advise staff of any allergies
MONDAY TO FRIDAY 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Bluewater
4057 6788 7 Harbour Drive, Trinity Park, QLD E: events@bluewaterbarandgrill.com.au F: Bluewater Bar & Grill W: bluewaterbarandgrill.com.au
let’s do lunch
Donnini’s ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Situated on the stunning Cairns Esplanade and offering panoramic Trinity Inlet views’ come and enjoy authentic Italian fare, Donnini’s Simply Italian’ incorporates the traditional and colourful flavours of Italian cuisine, with a relaxed dining atmosphere in the award winning Hilton Hotel Cairns. Donnini’s menu offers traditional handmade pastas, classic pizzas and a range of homemade breads, salads and desserts and is a perfect environment for family get-togethers, intimate dinners, functions and events.
Open 7 Nights from 5pm Lunch Wednesday to Sunday
Donnini’s Simply Italian
4050 2020
Drift on the Esplanade
CAFE DINING
Drift on the Esplanade at Rydges Tradewinds Cairns offers a fresh new take on cafe dining with stunning views of the broad walk and water front Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Drift dishes up delectable modern Australian cuisine 7 days a week with arguably some of the best atmosphere and views in Cairns. Using only the freshest ingredients the carefully designed menu will suit even the fussiest diner with selections from sticky pork ribs and a kg of chicken wings to our signature seafood platter for two. Let Drift tempt you with our Salad Daze special each Wednesday. Choose from any of our 3 house salads and receive a complimentary glass of wine* for just $18 *complimentary house wine, beer or softdrink
Drift on the Esplanade
4053 0372
34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870 E: info@donninis.com.au W: www.donninis.com.au
Mondo CAFÉ BAR AND GRILL
Come on over to the awardwinning Mondo Café Bar and Grill at the Hilton Cairns hotel and experience a unique alfresco dining experience on the waterfront of Trinity Inlet. Take in the stunning views, relax beneath the shade of our giant Poinciana tree and indulge in Mondo’s tasty light Lunches from $17 or savour our extensive all day menu offering flavours from around the world and signature dishes such as the hanging Mondo barbecue and famous sizzling fajitas. Not around for Lunch? Enjoy weekly specials and events from Family Night every Tuesday to Live & Local every Friday, showcasing the best of Cairns’ local musical talent, like us on Facebook to see what’s happening. OPEN MONDAY through SUNDAY 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Mondo.Cairns
07 40 526 780 Located along the waterfront of 34 Esplanade, Cairns E: mondo.cairns@hilton.com F: www.facebook.com/Mondo.Cairns
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LO C A L TA L E N T
INTRODUCING
THE STYLISTS
The month of September will see Cairns Central launch their new Resident Stylist service. The initiative has been created to enrich the shopping experience by offering customers an exclusive one on one opportunity with a stylist dedicated to helping discover what look best suits individual style. “We are excited to have such experienced and talented fashion stylists working with us to help our shoppers select the right look to suit their needs and personality,” says Cairns Central Marketing Manager Louise Struber. With one and two hour sessions available, clients can feel confident and on trend according to body shape, lifestyle and budget. The one hour personal styling session is an “express or event shop’, designed specifically for those who are in need of a particular outfit for an event or occasion. The two hour styling session is more of a personal experience where customers get to know more about colour tone, body shape and wardrobe requirements. “Our fashion stylists will spend time getting to know our customers and take them through the centre to help discover pieces that will make them feel confident and on trend,” says Louise. At a cost of $70 for the one hour session and $120 for the two hour experience, clients will have the choice between resident stylists Pip Miller or Pip Addison to help put together the perfect wardrobe.
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PIP MILLER As the former Beauty Editor of Mode Magazine, Pip Miller understands the importance of styling. With over thirty years experience as a wardrobe stylist and public relations consultant, Pip uses colour and the client’s individuality to challenge boundaries. “To me, fashion is not about being safe and conservative – it is about sass and wit, mix and match, playing around and having fun,” says Pip. According to Pip, it is about finding that certain piece of clothing or accessory that reflects personality and makes a statement, while obeying the principles of quality, cut and classic style.
PIP ADDISON The founder of Modern Style, Pip Addison has over twenty years experience in the fashion industry. Working with men and women of all ages and sizes, Pip is dedicated to finding the right look on any budget. A fashion blogger and writer, and styler of fashion layouts, Pip has featured prominently in numerous magazines. Whether it be a single outfit for an upcoming event , a colour consult, or an entire wardrobe overhaul, Pip is happy to help. Pip knows how to help one look and feel great, and believes seeing a stylist is simply a small investment in one’s self as a means of creating confidence and looking your best. Early bird bookings are available by contacting the customer service desk on (07) 4047 7407 or email cairnscentral@lendlease.com
CairnsLife
Left: Pip Addison Right: Pip Miller
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- I N T R O D U C I N G ‘ P I P M ’ & ‘ P I P A’ C A I R N S C E N T R A L’ S R E S I D E N T S T Y L I S T S -
Enjoy the ultimate shopping experience with Cairns Central’s personal styling and shopping service.
1HR EXPRESS SHOP - $70
2HR PERSONAL SHOP - $120
For bookings contact (07) 4041 4111 or email cairnscentral@lendlease.com *Terms and conditions apply. Visit Cairns Central Customer Service Desk for details or www.cairnscentral.com.
ALL OF YOUR FAVOURITE RACING FASHION & BEAUTY STORES UNDER THE ONE ROOF.
Cairns Amateurs Fashion Ambassador Grace Taylor 2015 Face of Cairns Central
Cairns Amateurs Fashion Ambassador Grace Taylor 2015 Face of Cairns Central JJ Headwear millinery - $200 - Vivienne Francine Gold leaf Biba earrings - $69.95 - Vivienne Francine Amber gold and silver Biba cocktail ring - $129 - Vivienne Francine Baroque dress in original sublimination print - $179.95 - Vivienne Francine Olga Berg black imitation snake pod clutch - $69.95 - Myer Jane Debster black suede lace up heels - $229.95 - Myer
Pip M x 48
CairnsLife
CAIRNS CENTRAL • RACE STYLE FOR ME
Cocktail headwear with gold pattern and veil - $129.95 - Myer Black and gold drop earrings - $12 - Target Black and gold necklace - $20 - Target Jayson Brundson slate fit and flare dress - $229 - Myer Lovisa headband worn as a belt - stylist’s own Olga Berg oversized gold evening clutch - $49 - Myer Jane Debster black suede lace up heels - $229.95 - Myer
Pip M x 49
CairnsLife
Review Bellini Floral dress - $289.99 - Myer Sweet Nothing pink Sunglasses - $49.95 - Universal Store Lonna Strap heel in Sand - $69.95 - Novo Galactica frayed crin with feather detail on silk abaca button base $180 - Josie Rose Couture Headwear, Vivienne Francine Trent Nathen pearl short necklace - $69.95 - Myer Pearl studs - $29 - Vivienne Francine Pure Elements pearl bracelet - $39.95 - Myer
Pip A ox 50
CairnsLife
CAIRNS CENTRAL • RACE STYLE FOR ME
Black waves and flowers headwear - $449 - Myer Black and gold drop earrings - $12 - Target Bangles - $12 - Target Black and gold necklace - $20 - Target Jayson Brundson water floral trapeze crop top - $129 - Myer Jayson Brundson inverted pleat mid-length skirt - $169 - Myer Olga Berg black imitation pod clutch - $69.95 - Myer Jane Debster black suede lace up heels - $229.95 - Myer
Pip M x 51
CairnsLife
Cameo Fall Back skirt in pink - $149.95 - Universal Store Khloe top in Ivory - 69.95 - Bardot Frayed crin on tear drop base - $190 - Josie Rose Couture Headwear, Vivienne Francine Shoes - Stylists own White Clutch $99.95 Olga Berg - Vivienne Francine Biba Gold drops - $80 - Vivienne Francine Trent Nathen rose gold bangle - $49.95 - Myer Trent Nathen rose hinged bangle - $49.95 - Myer Trent Nathen rose mix - $39.95 - Myer
Pip A ox 52
CairnsLife
CAIRNS CENTRAL • RACE STYLE FOR ME
Cue Design Blk and White stripe dress - $319.00 - Myer Cue Design patent blk belt - $149.00 - Myer Izett Black strap heel - $79.95 - Novo Biba black onyx square drops - $59 - Vivienne Francine Design Studio gold metal ring - $14.95- Myer Design Studio hinged circle bangle - $29.95 - Myer Design Studio leather wrap bracelet - $29.95 - Myer Black and White Millinery By Bernice Patton - $250 - Vivienne Francine Olga Berg Black clutch - $99.95 - Vivienne Francine
Pip A ox 53
CairnsLife
10B Shields St, Cairns • P: 4031 3939 www.diamondsandtime.com.au
NOW OPEN
PEDICURE • MANICURE • NAILS MASSAGE • WAXING • LASHES
With luxury and relaxation in mind we adopt a natural and eco approach to our beauty treatments. Natural, locally sourced product, raw and fresh ingredients and a simple, stylish aura of urban tranquillity
4053 2205
SHOP 2 / 1 PYNE ST EDGE HILL QLD 4870
hello@sodanails.com.au www.sodanails.com.au
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We Have Moved to a Brand New Location
OPEN 7 Days a week Address: 14 Kehoe Place, next to Whistle Shop cafe opposite the Yungaburra market grounds Follow us: www.facebook.com/globalfreestyle For info phone: 4095 2727 Website:
www.globalfreestyle.com.au
BY MARCIA EBDELL-BLANCH 4058 0511 www.asyoulikeit.com.au Like us on Facebook
ANDI SPARK
Hair, Make-Up & Photography By “As You Like It Hair & Beauty”
From Cairns High
With Andi’s Hair we needed to shape and refine her ends after a lapse of haircuts. We wanted to inject volume, add interest and shape around her beautiful face with keeping the length. With a burst of shape and uplift we have achieved a lovely youthful look.
TIP OF THE MONTH
Andi wanted a very popular natural ombre’ look at the moment. We added Depth throughout the Root area with a natural Ashed Blonde just 1.5 shades darker than her Natural and then filtered some frosting through mid to ends. To highlight and brighten the look. The result was stunning, youthful bright and above all Pretty & Natural.
With Andi’s Make-up we wanted to keep things simple and reflect Andi’s gorgeous skin and youthfulness. We started by giving a light dusting of mineral Powder inTone, then a dust of Translucent above the cheeks to highlight with a blast of rose on the cheeks to give a summery feel. We simply lined the eyes with white and black liner and extended the lashes with a splash of Mascara to open up the eyes. To finish lashings of fiery Orange pop on the lips and glossed to finish. “ Stunning “
For all the latest trends and advise on achieving your Hair & Beauty goals come in for one of our free Design and Advice Consultations with our in Salon Professionals so that you too can discover your future potential.
Each winner will receive a gift pack valued at over $180!
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FASHIO N, SWIMWEAR AND AC C ESSO R IES
www.theeyeboutique.com.au 8/10 Shields Street, Cairns, Qld 4870 P 07 40 314675
Shop 7 Coconut Grove 56 Macrossan St, Port Douglas Qld 4877 P 07 40995526
The Eye Shop T64 DFO 274 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt 4870
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Like us on
facebook @ The Eye Boutique
Follow us on
www.theeyeboutique.com.au
Day Surgery Focal Therapy FO R
PRO STAT E
C ANC ER
Focal Cryotherapy
Localised prostate cancer management presents a challenge to the patient and Urologist with radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy being the most common form of management. However, the desire for minimally invasive treatment with a low risk of side effects with disease control remains. Focal Cryotherapy may be able to fulfil these criteria.
urine is maintained because that area is outside the area of treatment. Focal Cryotherapy is carried out in day surgery so that the patient goes home at the end of the day with a catheter in place for a few days. The patient will likely enjoy an uninterrupted quality of life from when he is first treated.
• A compromise chosen by an increasing number of men
Focal Cryotherapy uses advanced techniques to destroy only the portion of the prostate affected by cancer. This is done by passing fine needles in to the prostate with the patient under a general anaesthetic to the area of cancer and freezing only that area to kill the cancer cells.
Because Focal Cryotherapy only freezes a portion of the prostate as opposed to the entire gland the patient will require follow up monitoring in case there is any development of prostate cancer in the untreated part of the gland. If that occurs then the patient may require additional treatment.
• Only freezes a portion of the prostate as opposed to the entire gland
With increased use of prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing, many younger men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer feel they are not ready for aggressive treatment options. However, they also find “watchful waiting” (monitoring of the disease with no immediate treatment) unacceptable. Focal Cryotherapy for prostate cancer is a compromise chosen by an increasing number of men.
Focal cryotherapy does not exclude any treatment options for the future – including a repeat focal cryotherapy or whole-gland prostate cryotherapy.
• Carried out in day surgery
Over the last six years patients have been able to undergo this procedure through Cairns Urology which is the only Urology practice making this treatment available on a regular basis in Australia.
• Does not exclude any treatment options for the future
Many older men in whom there are increased risks of side-effects may also prefer this treatment to the more aggressive forms of treatment to obtain control of the disease. Focusing on the affected area allows doctors to preserve other regions of the prostate – in particular the nerves associated with potency which allows the man to obtain and maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Also, control of
DR NEIL GORDON Urologist Urological Surgeon at Cairns Urology M.B.B.S (Melb) F.R.C.S (Glasg)F.R.C.S Ed F.R.A.C.S., F.I.C.S
98 Spence Street Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia PO Box 7787 Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia
P (07) 4041 0700 F (07) 4041 4007 reception@cairns-urology.com.au www.cryotherapy.com.au
T H E B I G G E S T A D VA N C E I N I M P R O V I N G P R O S T A T E C A N C E R D I A G N O S I S
CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE PROSTATE SCREENING AT C A I R NS R A D I O LO G Y Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia and the third most common cause of cancer death in men. More than 3000 men die of prostate cancer in Australia every year; almost twice as many as Breast Cancer. Until now, a blood test called PSA (prostate specific antigen) and a digital rectal examination were the main ways of detecting prostate cancer. ‘Many men are then sent for a transrectal ultrasound biopsy (TRUS)’, said Dr Daynes, radiologist at Cairns Radiology. An ultrasound probe is inserted rectally to identify the prostate gland. A small needle then passes through the ultrasound probe to collect small samples of the prostate gland. Because it is difficult to clearly visualise where the cancer is located, usually 12 needle samples are taken, sometime more. The procedure is usually performed under a local anaesthetic with sedation with some patients requiring a night in hospital.
Until recently, this was the only method available to make a diagnosis of prostate cancer. NO MORE! Over the past few years there have been major advances in the detection of prostate cancer, in particular the multi parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) that examines the structure and function of the gland. ‘mpMRI allows the radiologist to see the possible cancer’, say Dr Daynes, ‘this means far fewer needles up your rectum as you can see the needle going directly into the area of maximum concern’. Only one or two needles are generally needed with mpMRI instead of possibly 12 or more with the traditional ultrasound guided method. This has major advantages for patients in reducing discomfort, bleeding and risk of infection. Multi parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging is done on a special 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner along with specific software and a specialty biopsy robot
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that is used to obtain extremely accurate biopsies of the prostate. All of this equipment is fully owned and operated by Cairns Radiology. CAIRNS RADIOLOGY, located at 121 Sheridan Street, Cairns is one of three international Centres of Excellence for Prostate Cancer in Australia that provide such a service, leading the way for better detection of prostate cancer. No longer is there the need to travel south for the service. A locally owned and operated practice, CAIRNS RADIOLOGY continues its commitment to providing high quality care to the people of Cairns and surrounding areas. ‘This is our focus’, says Robin Gordon, C.E.O. and one that is ongoing. Cairns Radiology provides all MRI services along with general and dental x-ray, ultrasound and high definition FLASH CT, the fastest, most precise and one of the lowest dose scanners available on the market today. Call 4051 9729 to schedule an appointment.
This man is wearing a hearing aid. You would never know. Lyric is the world’s only 100% invisible 24/7 hearing aid. Worn for months at a time, it has also been scientifically proven to reduce the effects of tinnitus* for those with hearing problems. Don’t ignore your hearing loss a moment longer. For a FREE Lyric guide and to find out about our 1 month trial offer, contact us and Start Connect Hearing Today.
Cairns - 4053 6111 www.connecthearing.com.au/lyrictrial *Based on a 2014 study by Phonak
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BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
12–16 OCTOBER
CAPE YORK TRADE MISSION EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST NOW OPEN With hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure projects approved for the Cape York Region and a raft of community development initiatives underway, opportunities abound for Cairns businesses to assist the people of Cape York to develop their future. Cairns is perfectly positioned to act as a hub providing products and services to Cape York. Leverage the relationships already established by the Cairns Chamber that will benefit your business.
CAIRNSCHAMBER.COM.AU
2015 MAJOR PROJECTS AND MINING FAMILIARISATION
11–12 SEPTEMBER 2015
This two day event, commences with an exclusive, invite-only cocktail party, followed by a ‘Regional Opportunity, Resources & Capabilities’ info session in the morning and culminates with a day at the Amateurs in our VIP marquee. This format provides an attractive and relaxed forum in which to meet with major project representatives, investors and mine managers and to develop relationships while showcasing your business. This opportunity is only available to 12 current members of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, or members of other regional Chambers of Commerce. Secure your delegate ticket for just $3,850 today. We also invite expressions of interest for two major sponsor opportunities priced at $4,950. Please contact us for more information on 07 4031 1838 or email info@cairnschamber.com.au to secure your place today.
CAIRNSCHAMBER.COM.AU
PA R A N O R M A L S TAT E O F M I N D
I
’ve come to the conclusion that human beings are able to convince themselves of almost anything. While this observation isn’t ground-breaking, it is startling to witness the impact our ‘self-deception’ or ‘selffulfilling-fakery’ can have on our lives. One morning, I woke up with a mysterious red rash, encircled by scratch marks (yes, yes, très chic, I know!). Historically, I go for the explanation that requires the fewest assumptions, hence I put the rash down to a dose of Sea Lice acquired during my dip at Palm Cove the day before. My co-host in his usual, belligerent manner disagreed and suggested that my apartment was haunted and the scratch marks were in fact inflicted by a demon. Laughable right? Well, not according to a woman from Trinity Park who informed us that on one evening the word, STOP was carved into her son’s leg by what she described as a being “who possessed extra sharp finger-nails.” Frighteningly, she revealed that the ‘wordwound’ had baffled the medicos as the flesh appeared inverted as opposed to raised. WTF?! While this anecdote certainly made my hair stand on end (well a little at least) a sample size of one isn’t exactly proof that malevolent spirits are at work.
My skepticism combined with my desire to muzzle my garrulous cohost, brought me to the conclusion, that I should put the rash-issue to bed, literally. To this end I took the matter to my bedroom and decided to record all 7 hours of my sleep in order to catch anything otherworldly. In retrospect this is when the panic set-in and as I hit record on my Samsung it was as if I had simultaneously pressed play on my amygdala (the small almond shaped mass of nuclei in the brain that controls fear). During the recording I sat bolt upright, jaw tense, eyes wide and every humdrum sound seemed suspicious. Don’t even get me started on the bloodcurdling cry of the curlew! To make matters worse, I felt a cooling sensation all over my body, which I hoped was more likely to be the result of a vigorous South-Easterly rather than a spirit hovering millimetres above my defenceless body. Without wanting to sound too cracked here, I felt more than a little uncomfortable with the prospect of discovering a strange shrieking voice at 3:44am (during the witching hour) on my recording, and even more so by the vision of returning to my seemingly haunted room the next evening for round two! But before, you slip into your judgey-pants, my freak-out was akin to the first time you watch
Paranormal Activity. As the credits roll, you feel relieved it’s over but then, almost instantly you notice flickering lights, dogs howling, and then suddenly the door slams behind you…And it’s a still night! Simply put, your mind has betrayed you. The next morning, I woke up with a sense of anticipation; I was absolutely certain there was something sinister captured on my phone! So, I hurried to work to commence the tedious task of sifting through 7 hours of audio, and guess what I found…nothing! Well, that’s not entirely true; I did stumble across some radio wave interference at 3:05am that may suggest there’s a greater risk from cosmic radiation than demonic forces. I never did solve the mystery of my rash, but I’m now acutely aware that, without the slightest warning, my mind CAN and WILL betray me. I resolved steadfastly not to succumb to it ever again, well at least, not until the next instalment of Paranormal Activity.
You can hear Ilaria on Hot FM’s Breakfast with Illy & Shad. Follow Ilaria on Twitter: @ilariabrophy
YOUR LOCAL TYRE SPECIALIST
Get a grip with TYRE & WHEEL PACKAGES.
TUFF TYRES FNQ 2 GREAT LOCATIONS. LYONS ST CAIRNS 4035 3550 • BRODY CL GORDONVALE 4056 1772
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Sales without the hustle and hard sell.
For more tips and sales strategies, check out Kylie Gabutto – Passion |Profit | Productivity www.kyliegabutto.com
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Ow n e r s a n d t h e i r p e t s Q: What breed is Bella? Bella is a West Highland Terrier Q: How long has Bella been a part of your family? She’s been part of our family forever. She was born on the 29th of January 2011 and joined our pack on the 27th of March 2011. She’s been an integral part of our family, both at home and at work, since then. Q: What makes Bella so special? Bella is brimming with self-confidence; she’s affectionate yet independent. She’s also possessed with no small amount of self-esteem! The best way to describe my little white Terrier is simply to say that she knows she’s the best thing around. She’s always on the lookout for a good time, and she’ll make you laugh while she entertains herself. She’s friendly and happy, with a lively nature that endears her to everyone, especially when she cocks her head to the side and looks at you quizzically. We often have clients asking for Bella before asking to meet with a team member. Q: How would you describe the bond that you share? As the ambassador for the Fortis team, her nature is sturdy, spunky and bold. This relates directly to the courageous, brave and powerful Fortis team! Our bond is similar to that of a mother and baby transcending mere companionship. As she’s assertive but cheerful (with the typical stubbornness and cleverness of a true terrier), as a “mum” I have to continually show her that
Elmarie & Bella I’m in charge or else she becomes demanding and testy when she doesn’t get her own way. Q: Where is your favourite place to walk Bella and why? Bella likes to walk anywhere and anytime, especially the beach! As she’s a free spirit she loves to run off the lead (oh, beware of the puppy police) but she’s easy to handle, well-disciplined and friendly with strangers and other dogs. As play often takes care of a lot of Bella’s exercise needs, she regularly visits the RSPCA in Cairns where she leads the small dog enclosure pack with exuberance. This is definitely one of her favourite places to play! Q: How does Bella like to spend her day? Although Bella is full of energy and spirited, she can mostly entertain herself. Given that she mirrors the time that I spend in the office, she can often be found supervising the team and sub-contractors, greeting the clients and attending meetings.
Elmarie Gebler is the Director of Fortis Group, a business advisory and consultancy firm.
CAIRNS TOURIST & LOCAL
MEDICAL SERVICES
GROUND FLOOR CAIRNS CORPORATE TOWER 15 LAKE ST. CAIRNS GENERAL PRACTICE WORKPLACE INJURY MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT
We practice family law and de facto law which encompasses:
PRE-EMPLOYMENT, AMSA, AVIATION & COAL BOARD MEDICALS
• Resolution of property issues following relationship breakdown, whether the parties were married or de facto, including same sex relationship • Assistance with the resolution of parenting arrangements • Assistance with issues arising out of domestic violence • Divorce applications • Cohabitation agreements • Pre-nuptial agreements • Binding financial agreements • Surrogacy and assisted conception agreements
TRAVEL VACCINATIONS & ADVICE MEDICO LEGAL REPORTING
Dr. Campbell’s TRAVEL TIPS
Suzanne Hadley LLB QUT QUEENSLAND LAW SOCIETY ACCREDITED SPECIALIST
w w w. hadley f am ily law. c om . au
82 Scott Street Bungalow Cairns QLD 4870 P (07) 4044 5000 • F (07) 4031 1287 • hadleyfamilylaw
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Malaria is a serious and potentially fatal mosquito transmitted parasitic infection. It is found in many tropical and sub-tropical countries. There is no vaccination for malaria and prevention is through good insect protective measures and oral medication. Medication helps reduce the risk of infection and death from malaria. Side effects from medication require appropriate selection for each person. Talk to us today about malaria medication and prevention before your next trip.
CairnsLife
Travel Safe, Travel Well Ph: 4041 1699 15 Lake St, Cairns WWW.CTLMEDICAL.COM.AU
How to hang onto those top performers with Eva Grabner
In a day and age where there are many highly qualified people on the job market, I have noticed some clients becoming complacent. The cost of turnover is often way underestimated. The obvious costs are recruiting and training costs but there is also lost opportunity, lower morale, weaker customer relationships, and other similar intangibles that are harder to measure. The cost of turnover is even higher when you lose a high performer; that Superstar, the one that is a shining example of the attitude and skills that strengthens both your culture and bottom line. This loss is incalculable. High performers may be hard to keep for as long as you would like, however, there are many things that a smart leader can do to keep them for as long as possible. To find and keep the right person, the process starts when you are recruiting them. Having the right skills for the role is important but you also need to find out what motivates them, what do they love about what they do and what are their short and long term career goals. Are you an ‘employer of choice’? That’s your number one priority as a business owner. No one, especially high performers, likes to go down with a sinking ship. Average employees will, mostly, stay and suffer, high performers will leave far sooner . Take decisive action to address the most important factor holding your team back from high performance. If you don’t know what that is, then find out – fast! Provide a sound induction process. Everyone remembers their first few weeks on the job – bad or good. This process will set the tone and lay the foundation for retention. Make
sure your new employee is ‘mentored’ on day one, that their tools for the job are ready and waiting and a full welcome induction process is performed. Give them the right introduction to your company, and their job, to be successful. Competitive salaries and benefits. Not all employees are after that fat paycheck. When you interview them you can find out what motivates them. Oftentimes your hands are tied with regards to how much you can compensate them financially, however, there is always room for negotiation with regards to flexibility, work environment and vacation time. Use the salary as a base and build up from there. Empower and trust them. Give your high performers the opportunity to use their unique strengths every day. That is why you hired them. Many of the best ideas float up to the top from down below if that is allowed and encouraged. If it isn’t, high performing employees will most likely become bored or frustrated, and this will quickly lead to disengagement and lower performance. Provide career development opportunities. Have regular career discussions with employees help them achieve their career goals by clearly understanding
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what these goals are. Build a direct relationship with each employee. Get to know your people beyond their work skills. Show them that you care, and that you’re looking out for their best interests and want them to be successful. Take the time to have regular one-on-ones. Recognition. In creative, informal ways, acknowledge how much employees’ various contributions mean to you. Acknowledgement and praise is cheap, use it purposefully, publically and often. Deal with under-performers promptly. High performers dislike working with laggards. Train, coach, counsel and performance manage the laggards consistently and fairly; you might be surprised to find out what they are capable of. As Richard Branson says so well ‘Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to’ He has it right. Do you?
Eva Grabner is an Executive Recruiter and Search Consultant with nearly a decade of experience across a multitude of industries, and the Managing Director of Elite Executive.
Father’s
Photo Credit: Tracey Hayes, Azure Photography
DAY
From makers of corny jokes, fixers of bicycles and cars, leaders of camping trips and fishing expeditions, barbeque supremos and mowers of lawns, Dads across Australia play an important role in their children’s lives and in the lives of the family, not just on Father’s Day but throughout their lives. Studies of Australian fathers confirm that Dads play a vital role in their families and complementary to the mother’s role.1 The importance of Dad in your child’s life cannot be over-estimated. Some Dads may feel their role in the family is overlooked, particularly following separation. However, the old last century model of alternate weekends for separated parents, has been replaced with the reflection of modern family life. Parents shared the parenting prior to separation and continuing their parenting role post separation is now considered normal in separated households. This is reflected in the Family Law Act which in essence, uses shared parenting as the starting point. It is recognised that Fathers play a pivotal role in the emotional well-being of their children; fathers are capable caretakers and disciplinarians. . Working Dads just like working Mums provide positive role models for their children. The
“What kind of games do cars play?” I don’t know Dad what games do they play? “Kar-i-oke” I know, groan, a typical corny Dad joke and no doubt a lot more similarly corny jokes will be heard around the breakfast table or the special barbeque this Father’s Day.
Growing Up in Australia study reported that nearly three-quarters of Fathers agreed that working helped them appreciate the time they spent with their children, while just over half agreed their work had a positive effect on their children Children with engaged Dads in their lives, who have positive role models and a good relationship with their fathers, have better adult outcomes. Various studies have found the links between fathering (co-parenting and parental warmth) and children’s socio-emotional and learning outcomes , even after taking into account the contribution of mothers. Who your children are now and the adults they will become – Dad plays an important role in this development. Girls will look for men ‘just like Dad” because Dad is their role model of what a good man is – how he treats his partner will teach her how she should be treated . So too for boys – they learn from their father how to treat a woman by observing their father’s relationship with their mother and/or his new partner where parents are separated. Children will look for these patterns as they form their own adult relationships. One key ingredient has been demonstrated as of importance in assisting to maintain the
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father child relationship post separation and that is a good quality parenting relationship with the child’s mother. Fathering really “matters” for children and families and there are tangible benefits to be gained from fathers’ continuing to be actively involved in their families no matter what the status of the family may be. This Father’s day, we recognise and reward Dads for being there, and actively teaching important life skills to children. It is important to Dads and to their children across Australia and to Dads everywhere when you say “Thank you, Dad “ Thank you for what is your true legacy: ensuring the health and well-being of your children, the future generation to be. 2 0 1 0 , Fat h er i ng i n Austr a l i a Amo ng Co upl e Fam ilies W it h Young Chi l dr e n:
1
Suzanne Hadley LLB QUT Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialist Family Law
Did someone say
“SPEAKER”? I love to speak!
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS
POP ONLINE
7 Vital Elements of a Professional Online Presence (POP!) Are you fiddling on Facebook, tinkering on Twitter or loitering on Linked In and left wondering “is this really working?” During this presentation Francine will show you how your online presence works to attract attention, generate leads and convert to clients. Francine takes a holistic approach, unlike any other social media speaker, and will reveal how your business can POP online.
From humble beginnings as a single parent with no right to start a business to an entrepreneur, award winning business owner, keynote presenter and author. Francine Bishop is a storyteller at heart and has found her passion helping business owners around the world.
Book online at www.cbwc.org.au
CBWC Networking Luncheons
The CBWC networking luncheons have been crafted to ensure that you have “serious fun, while doing serious business”.
Ticket includes: • Meet & Greet with welcome drink • 3 course sumptuous luncheon • Great raffle prizes
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• Business Card Draw • Presentation by Guest Speaker Francine Bishop • Tuesday September 8
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1ST SOFA
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* Selected styles only. Discount applies to lowest priced sofa selected.
HOME OWNERSHIP
6 Steps to Getting Into Your New Home
1. Select Your Builder
Ask friends who’ve been through the home building process and they’ll tell you … Choose the right builder, and the process is a breeze. Choose the wrong builder, and you’ll have nothing but frustrations, delays and disappointments. Do your homework. Ask the hard questions of the builder. Check out the builder’s reputation. Ensure they are very clear on what is included in the contract price and what isn’t. All this may sound tough, but after all, this is perhaps the biggest investment you’ll ever make in your life. Getting it wrong just isn’t an option.
2. Establish Your Budget
Establishing your budget before you visit display homes saves you time, and allows you to really focus on homes and land options that are in your price range. It helps the builder to advise you more effectively too. It’s an idea to get pre-approval of your available funds. So talk to your bank or finance agent first.
3. Choosing Your Design
You need to do your homework when choosing designs. Most builders have comprehensive websites with loads of ideas. Use a pen and paper to draw out your ideas. Usepinterest and collect pictures of finishes, home designs and so on. Visit display homes. Visit land developments and see what options are available.
4. Choosing Internal & External Colours And Textures
much about you when friends and family come to visit. You’ll develop some amazing ideas for interior decorating, on wall and floor tiles, on carpet and floor coverings … textures, colours, styles and fittings. You’ll be so excited at the possibilities, you’ll hardly want to wait to get into your new home. And that leads us to the next step…
5. Guaranteed Fixed Price and Estimated Completion Date
Your building experience should be enjoyable and worry free. The builder you end up choosing will get all the council plans prepared and submitted for approval, pay all the fees associated with building your new home and systematically record all your selections. When you sign a building contract you can opt for a fixed price build or not. If you don’t then the price of your build could vary to what you agreed on as materials and labour costs may change during the course of the build. Also at signing it’s a good idea to know the estimate build time allowing to make plans on your current house and move in dates.
6. After Handing Over The Keys
Most builders provide you with a 12 month defect warranty as well as a lifetime structural guarantee. Before the ‘handover’, the builder will go with you through your home, checking that absolutely everything is just perfect. Remember the builder wants you to be happy as you can be his greatest form of advertising.
This is where you really get to stamp your own personality and style onto your new home. The choices you make here will say so
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1320
1321
1210m²
859m²
1322
1028m²
1323
1132m²
STAGE 2 SED W NO RELEA
1324 757m²
1325 708m²
1326
1327
709m²
1329
1328
666m²
710m²
628m²
REET
ANSON ST
1301 1319
1318
1194m²
935m²
1316 768m²
879m²
1302 814m²
1315 700m²
1317
1303
1010m²
733m²
1314
1313
1304
700m²
869m²
733m²
1305
1312
815m²
884m²
1306 815m²
1311
1168m²
1307 815m²
STAGE 3 SED NOW RELEA
1308 815m²
1309
ROAD
787m²
1409
793m²
HAMELIN STREET
1094m²
1408
m WIDE
OAD 14
NEW R
1407
LD SO 740m²
OLD S1406 707m²
1402
1405 OLD
S778m²
1403
OLD S1404 816m²
OLD S969m²
757m²
PURE TRANQUILLITY Tranquillity at Bentley Park has proved one of the most sought-after locations in Cairns with the first stage having only two blocks remaining for sale. But there’s good news, because the final two stages at Bentley Park are now available for sale. “The end result of the development looks superb and subsequently demand has been excellent. We anticipate the two remaining releases will also experience high demand as this is the most elevated land in Bentley Park and land is at a premium,” said Developer Andrew Thomas from Dixon Homes. “Large level elevated home sites are in demand because they offer additional benefits and these are some of the best sites still available in Cairns. The fact that we have developed some excellent homes specifically designed to take advantage of the elevated views and the cool
sea breeze, will only add to the general interest of the properties. In addition, people look for flexibility and with the range of products Dixon Homes has to offer, we can tailor our designs to reflect any individual needs,” continued Mr Thomas.
“ ”
1401
OLD S942m² CU RL
OLD S1136m²
1310
EEK CR IS W E
N
flow on1effect through Stage Stageto 2 the southern Stagecorridor. 3 So we encourage people come in and talk to our consultants now to take advantage of this rare opportunity.” Tranquillity – available through Dixon Homes.
Demand has been excellent.
Stage two at Tranquillity has 14 blocks available and is ready to build in early in 2016 – with stage three following close behind. Mr Thomas went on to say “With land at a premium and growing demand in the market, we expect to see significant growth in the land values in the northern suburbs and a positive
Call 1300 10 10 10 or visit 172 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt dixonhomes-cairns.com.au TranquillityCairns.com.au
FOUR FANTASTIC DIXON HOMES FOR SALE Lot 1 Lago Crescent, Forest Gardens, Mt Sheridan $599,500
OPEN FOR INSPECTION BY APPOINTMENT • 4 Bedrooms Plus Study • 3 Bathrooms • Living, Dining & Multi-Purpose Room • Pool & Timber Deck • Magnificent Kitchen With Double Oven & v
Lot 10 Lago Crescent, Forest Gardens, Mt Sheridan $625,000
OPEN FOR INSPECTION BY APPOINTMENT • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Living, Dining & Multi-Purpose Room • Pool & Timber Deck • Magnificent Kitchen With Double Oven & Caesarstone Benchtops
4 Tyenna Close, Bentley Park $465,000 OPEN FOR INSPECTION BY APPOINTMENT • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Double Garage • Great Valley Views • Premium Appliances • Stone Benchtops • Solar Hot Water & PV Unit • Fully Air Conditioned
283 Eagleview Place, Smithfield $795,000
OPEN FOR INSPECTION Saturday & Sunday 10am–4pm • Fully Air Conditioned • Canopy’s Edge Estate • Pool & Decking • Tiled Roof • Solar Hot Water & PV Unit • Gourmet Kitchen & Butler’s Pantry • Dream Ensuite With Freestanding Bath • Triple Garage • 2800mm High Ceilings
ASK OUR CONSULTANTS ABOUT OUR OTHER COMPLETED HOMES AND HOUSE & LAND PACKAGES
Over 2,000 house and land packages available online at www.dixonhomes.com.au BUILDING FROM MOSSMAN TO CARDWELL – THE TABLELANDS – INGHAM – TOWNSVILLE – AYR
$15,000 GREAT START GRANT AVAILABLE^
SENSATIONAL UPGRADES FROM RESORT SPECIFICATION ENTRANCE FEATURES • 3.2 x 1.2m Portico With 590 x 390 Feature Colour Columns And Lintels (If Optional Façade Shown On Standard Plan) • Corinthian Windsor 1200mm Stained Timber And Glass Entrance Door • Gainsborough Trilock 3 In 1 Omni 600mm Stainless Steel Pull Handle KITCHEN • Caesarstone 20mm Square Edge Quartz Benchtop • Stylelite High Gloss Kitchen c/w Brushed Aluminium Kickboard • Glass Splashback In Solid Paint Behind Cooktop (As Per Original Plan) • Blum Soft Close Door And Drawers (Excluding Corner Cabinets/Pantries) • Bronte 1160 1 ¾ Deluxe Stainless Steel Sink c/w Accessories • Barrow Gooseneck Sink Mixer With Pull Out Veggie Spray APPLIANCES • Option 1 – Bompani 900mm Gas/Electric Upright Stove c/w Gas Connection c/w 900mm Stainless Steel Canopy Ducted To Eave • Option 2 – Rosieres 600mm Pyrolytic Electric Oven And Rosieres 600mm Induction Cooktop • Plus Asti Vita 600mm Stainless Steel Canopy Rangehood Ducted To Eave • Asti Vita 600mm Semi-Integrated 6 Program 12 Place Setting Dishwasher
BATHROOM & ENSUITE • G James Semi Frameless Pivot Door Shower Screens • Andric Mixer Tapware, Maleney Shower Head And Empire Bathroom Accessories • Adesso Edge Wall Faced Toilet Suites • Napoli 1500 Or 1700mm Freestanding Bath (Space Permitting) To Ensuite Or Bathroom • Heated Towel Rails (4 Bar) • Custom Caesarstone Silk Gloss Soft Close Vanities c/w Porcelain Basins INTERNAL FEATURES • LED Downlights • Gainsborough Feature Lever Door Handles • Corinthian Motive Smooth Finish Internal Doors • Mirrored 2.4m High Sliding Wardrobe Doors In Bedrooms GARAGE PANEL DOOR • Steel-Line 5.2m Wide x 2.3m High Feature Remote Panel Lift Garage Door (Subject To Engineering) SITE COSTS • Footings And Slab Thickenings To: Class S, M And H Sites ASK ABOUT OUR SOLAR BONUS • Your Choice Of: • 1.5kW PV Solar System Or • 250L Electric Boosted Solar Hot Water System
^To approved applicants. *Promotion is based on Resort Specification only. Dixon Homes Cairns reserves the right to alter specifications and/or substitute the make/model or type of any standard inclusion, to a product of equivalent standard, without notice. Limited offer, duplex designs upgrades one side per promo. Two kitchen plans/butlers kitchens, only main kitchen is upgraded, conditions apply. Limited time only. Carrington Homes P/L trading as Dixon Homes Cairns QBCC 78120.
1300 10 10 10 172 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt
/dixonhomescairns
Yo u K n o w Yo u Wa n t I t
A Streetcar NamedDesire BY SUZY GRINTER
There’s no doubt luxury is subjective. At some stage in almost everyone’s lives however, the attainment of a luxury car is something to which we aspire, albeit the dream can manifest diversely - a Hummer Warrior One or a Ferrari California?
but volume of sales is lacking in regional areas, and when we do have enquiries, we make arrangements for prospective buyers to test drive the car,” said Alan. “The R8 has certainly accomplished what Audi wanted it to achieve, and that is to put Audi on a pedestal as a premium carmaker; one that can build cars on a par with Ferrari and Lamborghini.
There’s not a man alive who would be telling the truth if he said he didn’t aspire to a ‘luxury’ vehicle, and being fair, that sentiment is not restricted to the male of the species at all. But what actually does constitute a luxury vehicle?
“It demonstrates Audi can build at both ends of the spectrum. With a lot of other brands, you would probably have to spend the same amount as an R8 just to get into an entry model car. Traditionally most manufacturers build their image and sales through motor racing.
Alan Baxter was an electrician with his trade career hard wired. A temporary deviation from course ultimately led him, in 2000, to Principal at the Cairns Audi dealership, Motoco, jettisoning other ventures to operate the business full time from 2010.
“Audi developed a sports car, but superior features of the state of the art design and technology of the R8 are being rolled into everyday cars.”
“A friend in the car industry was short staffed, and I offered to give him a hand. Most blokes have a passion for cars, so it didn’t take much to keep me in the industry,” said Alan.
“The Audi RS3 Sportback Quattro, due for release soon, and described by Trent Nikolic, Senior Editor of CarAdvice as a ‘precision instrument’, is more affordable and generates considerable interest,” says Alan.
Sales of Audi cars, along with other top of the range vehicles such as BMW and Mercedes, are booming, despite a perceived lack of confidence in the economy. In fact Audi has enjoyed nine years of continual growth in Australia, with a 28% increase in sales in Cairns last year alone.
What does Alan see as priorities for luxury car purchasers? “I guess the styling, the technology, the design, the environmental aspects of the car and fuel economy, more so than an image. A lot of people buy cars to reward themselves for a success or perhaps a landmark in their lives.
Would Motoco stock the soon to be released Audi R8 coupe FSI Quattro, the R8 having enjoyed a bit of a cult following since its initial release in 2006? At $279,000 to over $400,000 plus onroad costs, Alan says the market for the new Audi R8 in the Cairns region is limited.
“The economy in Cairns a present doesn’t lend itself to people purchasing in the top end of the market, but as the economy improves, we’ll see more enquiry into the higher end.”
“Certainly major metro dealers stock the car,
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The Relaunch Audi R8
Don’t get
left behind... Those of you paying attention to the automotive bearer of the four rings will know that the new Audi RS3 is nearly upon us.
Once it hits the market in November the RS3 will be the latest addition to the RS range running from the 6 through to the 3. This new model is bristling with all Audi’s high-performance gear, in a small but perfectly formed package. The explosive turbocharged five-cylinder 2.5-litre engine shoves out 270kW (about 370hp in old money) and 465Nm through Audi’s world beating Quattro system. Needless to say the RS3 is no slouch with a manufacturers time of 0-100km/h in only 4.3 seconds. This ballistic engine is mated to another fine piece of German engineering, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gear box, which provides refined changes even when under the duress
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of a heavy right foot. Driving this car presses all the buttons reminding me why I first fell in love with hot hatches all those years ago. The steering is precise and, despite its all-wheel-drive system, the car promises to easily allow me to achieve rallysuperstar levels of oversteer. Even so the RS3 is really designed to be a fast street car, a feat it easily achieves. The interior, as with all top end Audis, is well appointed and organised with the infamous Teutonic build quality on full display. At around $80K for an optioned version this isn’t a cheap choice, but sits well against it’s German rivals under cutting and outpacing the AMG and M series alternatives.
CairnsLife
HOme tofs.com.au
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136 Anderson St Manunda Ph 4032 4223
Catalogue instore now! Stock may vary between stores. Images for illustrative purposes only, accessories not included.
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SPECIALISING IN: • conceptual budgets • sloping sites • energy efficient homes • narrow or irregular land
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144 Mulgrave Rd, Cairns QLD P 07 4051 8866 F 07 4041 3388 E ros@affinitydh.com.au
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Home
Once you’ve made the decision to build a new home make sure you know what you are getting in your contract.
BUILDING PROCESS This is an exciting time and one that many people only do once in their lives, so spend a little time checking all the information available. Display homes are a great way of seeing exactly what a new home has to offer. Most people need to walk through a home to get the size and proportion of rooms and layout. Builders use display homes to show the products they would normally include. Some may have upgraded their inclusions so always ask if this is a ‘standard inclusion’ or will it cost more. Once you’ve decided on your floor plan and the builder, it’s time to make sure that everything you think you are getting is actually what you want included in your building contract. Make sure your questions are answered and the inclusions are in writing in your specifications. The building contract process has changed recently and the requirement now is to enter into a preliminary agreement. This process involves the builder doing some preliminary work like soil test, engineering, site inspection and other reports prior to confirming your contract price. The owner is required to pay for these services as the builder incurs costs to obtain this information.
This cost may vary from builder to builder and that depends on what is actually involved for each home project. Some blocks of land are sloping or need retaining work and may require extra site preparation so your home can be built. The new contract process allows for the builder to determine this preliminary work and it can be included in the contract price. Some builders have not done this in the past which may have created difficulties for the owners in the future. During the preliminary agreement stage the builder should produce detailed plans and engineering, and then your builder should be able to present a detailed written quote with list of inclusions. This will have everything from the kitchen tap, to the numbers of power points and the pitch of the roof. This way, once you sign your new Building Contract you and your builder know exactly what is included. Builders have to place orders for materials sometimes many months before they are required on site so having as much info up front in writing is always to best way to go. What you may consider a small change may involve many
Posh Lifestyle is a contemporary indoor/outdoor furniture design company importing quality products from around the world to enhance the look of commercial and residential properties at affordable prices. We specialise in the styling of display homes and resorts and are able to work with architects for any customised designs.
1/206 McCormack St, Manunda | Call Maggie on 0407 242 545
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levels for the builder. If you do want to change something after this stage the contract allows that this must be in writing and signed by both the builder and the owners. Our local building market is finally getting busier so smart owners are getting in as early as possible to secure current prices.
Roslyn Smith Affinity Designer Homes & Value Homes (NQ) Building Designer and Licensed Builder Phone: 40518866 Mobile: 0439 855851 ros@affinitydh.com.au
HOme
CLIENT SAYS... We were carrying out a major renovation of our home, including replacing the old Kitchen. We were working with an excellent builder and wife team who suggested that Artizan Cabinets would be the Kitchen Cabinet Makers for what we were after. We had other Kitchen Cabinet makers come to look at the house but we were all confident that Russell and his team would deliver the quality and design we were after. The process was quite stress free when we had all come up with a suitable design for the space. The kitchen had to incorporate our stunning views and allow for the huge amount of space that we had to fill, including it extending out to our large deck area for entertaining. Russell was very open to the idea of an Island
DESIGNER SAYS... bench that would seat 8-10 people that was an extension of our inside kitchen bench. Artizan’s display room was fantastic, allowing to see the products that we were going to be using, with a picture board of other customers kitchens allowing you to get ideas. It was very important to us that the Kitchen be the hub of the house and that the choice of material would complement our environment which is bushland. We were after a Contemporary look with clean lines but we wanted warmth to enhance our timber floors and setting. Russell delivered that with the addition of Rosewood and stacker stone to an off white theme. Russell and his team were excellent with the timing of the construction and the fitting of it. I believed they worked very well with our builder. We were kept up to date with the
whole process by Russell. We felt that the pricing was very fair and we were not surprised with what it cost us in the end. The best part of the process was seeing it all come together and pinching ourselves that this was our kitchen. We have a stunning kitchen of quality that l want to spend my days cooking in and a kitchen that has loads of storage space, and allows us to entertain big numbers with no stress. Our last Christmas with family was a real Joy with all the girls working away creating in our kitchen and looking out into the views. We recently had a 50th Birthday party with over 55 guests and it was a delight to see so many of our friends congregating around the kitchen. I can see so many future celebrations repeating just that, and for us that’s just perfect!
This project was a little different from the norm, as I was invited to quote a kitchen renovation instead of being commissioned to do so. When I arrived I was a little bit “put on the spot” and asked “If this was your kitchen, how would you go about designing it?” Straight away I slipped into Kitchen Designer Mode, listened to what the builder and the client were telling me, and asked questions about their family life, whether they entertain at home, the age of their children and about the functionality side of the lay out. My first suggestion was that we put all of the tall storage type cabinets – like the pantries, the fridge, the wall-oven tower and appliance centre on the one wall
Best Renovation Kitchen over $20000
that did not have a view that would be hindered. This house is set in a bushland/ rainforest environment and the view are sensational. It became apparent that we needed to achieve an open plan style to maximise the sociability and the views, but also to develop an indoor / outdoor feel which allowed the kitchen to function not only within the parameters of the house, but also service the large deck area just outside. Whilst the client wanted modern features, due to the fact that it was a renovation, we had timber floors and timber decking to deal with. We decided to create a kitchen that had all of the modern attributes – using high gloss Stylelite board material, a sleek handle-free look, a very
neutral colour benchtop. Himacs material was chosen for the tops due to its excellent joining capabilities, and to give a seamless flow of benchtop from inside to outside the home. Most importantly, I included elements of natural timber and Stacker Stone to soften an otherwise clinical looking kitchen, and to help harmonise within the existing environment. The kitchen functions sensationally for the clients’ day to day family life, as well as social events due to its design which caters to an informal lifestyle that allows for outdoor tropical living as well as the indoor functionality. The clients and the builder were great people to deal with and I am very grateful that they allowed Artizan Cabinets to be a part of their home and lifestyle, now and in the future.
Winner
2014
HIA
Best New Kitchen over $20000 Kitchen Design of the Year Kitchen Project of the year
178 Scott St, Bungalow QLD 4870 (07) 4051 4007 www.artizancabinets.com.au QBCC 1269261
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I
t’s as if somewhere in the universe we are directed from above to find each other, people and dogs that are meant to walk the road of life together. This is the story of a young couple and a very special dog and the journey of love and commitment that has changed all of their lives forever. Almost four months ago I met Luke and Gabrielle and their newly adopted Sharpei cross called Ramy. Passionate dog owners with an overly excited and anti-social dog they were searching for answers as to how to resolve her seemingly unmanageable conduct. This energetic and extremely athletic canine had limited socialising skills and displayed highly anxious, overstimulated behaviour. This was going to be a long road of hard work and consistent routine to bring peace to the lives of this dynamic family. As is so often the case when we adopt a dog we inherit all of the wonderfully positive and sometimes extremely negative behavioural issues as part of the package. Gathering as much information as we could and after working through a sequence of simple exercises we decided on a program of rehabilitation for this most challenging of canines. Ramy was invited to attend a group obedience session which would allow us to assess her behaviour when in the company of other dogs. After an hour of high level reactivity, salivating, barking
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and lunging at class mates we were to witness the first few commands being performed on lead. A very small step on the monumental road to success but a moment of inspiration that would be the turning point in the relationship between this dog and her owners. Love and affection alone will not cure this type of behaviour and people must be dedicated to a process of hard work and tireless commitment. Daily routine for this very intense dog is structured and constant. Physical exercise combined with consistent command work stimulates body and mind. High maintenance dog ownership but the rewards are so dramatic and so satisfying. We still have a long road to walk and there will be many stops along the way. Days of success and many moments of questioning as we encounter new challenges and reach for new goals. I continue to be inspired by the passion and devotion of this extraordinary couple who are transforming the life of an exceptional little dog.
Linda Mair (Trainer/ Behaviourist/ Canine Myofunctional Therapist) Canine Training School 0413656626 www.caninetrainingschool.com.au Linda conducts puppy and dog obedience classes at Earlville Vet.
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