FOURTH QUARTER 2021-2022
FESTIVE FEVER
Ultimate Christmas Gifts
STAYCATION
All In Our Backyard
Totally Workwear Cairns is proudly locally owned and operated and has been servicing FNQ for 25 years.
GET WHAT YOU WANT & GET BACK TO WORK!
JUNE, CHRIS & JENNI KINGSBURY
www.totallyworkwear.com.au Ph: (07) 4047 4444 98 Scott Street, Bungalow Follow us
GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE in store
4TH QTR
COVER STORY P8 P6
P 22
P 24
P 27
P 31
P 26
P 12
6
WHAT’S ON
8
COVER STORY: LEILANI EDDIE - WHERE IT BEGAN
12
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
22
CHRISTMAS CATCH UPS
24
TARGET REOPENS
26
MELISSA NIELSEN A LASTING LEGACY
27
SEA OF SUCCESS
31
MODERN-DAY MARY POPPINS
34
CITYLIFE HEALTH
38
CITYLIFE REAL ESTATE
44
CITYLIFE BUSINESS
54
CITYLIFE FOOD
58
STAYCATION
CityLife 2 Magazine
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Are you feeling festive? We certainly are! After another year of COVID madness with restrictions, lockdowns, separation from loved ones, we are all geared up to enjoy a well overdue celebration with friends and family and immerse ourselves in all things FNQ as we explore our great region and show our support for our local tourism industry who have done it tough for far too long through this pandemic. We are in holiday STAYcation mode and even though we are yet switch off for the festive season at time of writing this, we are still sipping a sneaky champers with clients and staff in between all the Christmas chaos. In moderation of course! … after the past two years we’ve all had, drinking at work should be official company policy we feel! LOL
favourite health professionals… there really is literally something for everyone! So tune in as we release new episodes each week on all the platforms.
We are captivated by our Festive Fever feature and our 2021 Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide! There are gifts from $12 - $500 to provide you with some much needed gift giving inspo, no matter how big or small your budget. We think we can be forgiven for putting our Christmas decorations up early as we got into the festive spirit compiling it all for you. It really is a wonderful time of year once the decorations go up. There’s just something magical about Christmas. We think we’ll trial a November commencement of festivities next year too! Why not?! The rule book was thrown out at the beginning of COVID anyway! And we love the festive vibe that comes with it in the office! Hahahaha
Enjoy this jam packed Q4 edition – we have created it with love for you to revel in over the festive season. Thank you for your continued support, it means the absolute world to us. From our families to yours we wish you a safe and festive season and we look forward to bringing you more CityLife goodness in the New Year!
In case you haven’t heard we are also SUPER EXCITED to be the FIRST print publication in Queensland to launch its very own TV, RADIO and PODCAST show! The CityLifeTV show has hit Channel 10, 10PEACH, 10SHAKE and 10BOLD from Cooktown to Cardwell this month and The CityLifeRADIO show can be heard on HitFM and Triple M, while The CityLifePODCAST is now live on Spotify and iTunes and also available in video format on our Facebook, Instagram and YouTUBE platforms for those that prefer to watch the interview as it was recorded. So to say the CityLife Media team has been busy over the past 6 months is an understatement! It has been an extraordinary amount of content creation by the entire team and we can’t wait to hear what you think about our shows and all the wonderful local talent we will be showcasing. Our deepest thanks to those businesses who have trusted in us to partner with them and share this exciting multimedia journey. From real estate advice for renters, buyers and sellers, fashion and beauty tips from the best in the biz, cooking shows with award winning local chefs, to business advice with the best legal, financial and marketing minds, and preventative health care tips with our
Please send us your feedback and tell us what you’d like to hear more of. And don’t forget we are now doing CityLifeVIDEO REVIEWS, so if you know of a business/ product worthy of the spotlight in 2022, please drop us a line and let us know – e: operations@citylifemedia.com.au Head to our social media channels or YouTUBE channel to view our latest REVIEWS. We’ve been test driving the latest luxury cars and all! …we know, it’s hard work, but somebody has to do it!
P.S. Don’t forget to Keep It In Cairns and #DOITWITHALOCAL wherever you can this Christmas.
FOURTH QUARTER 2021-2022
FESTIVE FEVER
Ultimate Christmas Gifts
STAYCATION All In Our Backyard
CityLife Magazine™ is published quarterly by CityLife Media Pty Ltd November 2021 - February 2022. All material within the publication remains the property of the publishers unless permission is otherwise sought in writing. Those who make advertising placement and or supply editorial content to CityLife Magazine™ undertake to ensure all material does not infringe copyright, trademark, defamation, libel, slander or title. The above mentioned patrons agree to indemnify the publishers against any investigations, claims or judgements. The views expressed in CityLife Magazine™ are those of the contributors, and are not necessarily shared by the publication. CityLife Media Pty Ltd copyright November 2021 - February 2022.
CityLife Media Pty Ltd PO Box 1747 Cairns Q 4870 M. 0416 331 125 jacqui@citylifemedia.com.au danae@citylifemedia.com.au operations@citylifemedia.com.au www.citylifemedia.com.au
CityLife 4 Magazine
COVER IMAGE CREDITS: Photographer: Micah - The Social Impact
Location: Cairns Central
Cover story: Leilani Eddie
CityLife 5 Magazine
CityLife Events
WHAT’S ON
DEC
DEC DECEMBER 9
DECEMBER 2
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ON THE MOVE
CAIRNS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
Fogarty Park Cairns Thursday, 5:00pm www.cairns.qld.gov.au
Pullman Cairns International Thursday, 11:30am – 2:00pm cairnschamber.com.au
Supporting Ronald McDonald House Featuring nationally renowned mind reader and entertainer, Anthony Laye.
DECEMBER 4
31 DECEMBER 2021 – 1 JANUARY 2022
THE GOLDEN TICKET
ROCCO NEW YEAR’S EVE - SHAKEN NOT STIRRED
Cairns Performing Arts Centre Saturday, 10:30am & 7:30pm cairns.qld.gov.au
A fresh and fun adaptation of the much-loved classic Charlie & The Chocolate Factory. Join our adventure, in this spectacular production of dance, music and song. Let your “Pure Imagination” take you on a sweetened journey of colour and confection beyond your wildest fantasy. With an amazing cast of talented performers, spectacular choreography and costuming, The Golden Ticket is a “Deliciously Fun” show for all the family. Don’t miss this delectable production… “it will leave you gobsmacked!”
DECEMBER 7
ASTUTE FINANCIAL RACE DAY Cairns Jockey Club Tuesday, 12:00pm cairnsjockeyclub.com.au
Last race for 2021 with seven horse races.
Rocco by Crystalbrook Esplanade, Level 12, Tower, 131/141 Esplanade www.crystalbrookcollection.com.au/riley
31 DECEMBER 2021 – 1 JANUARY 2022 NEW YEARS EVE AT PULLMAN
Coco’s Kitchen + Bar, 17 Abbott St https://www.pullmancairnsinternational.com.au/ whats-on/new-years-eve
CityLife 6 Magazine
JAN
FEB
JANUARY 14
CityLife Events
WHAT’S ON
FEBRUARY 1
HOLLOW COVES
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS (YEAR OF THE TIGER)
Tanks Arts Centre Thursday, 7:30pm tanksartscentre.com
Tuesday https://www.cadcai.org.au/events/
Hollow Coves carry light within an eloquent, engaging and entrancing take on indie folk, quoting influences such as Angus & Julia Stone, Coldplay and The Paper Kites. Off the back of Hollow Coves’ EPs, ‘Wanderlust’ and ‘Blessings’ as well as their debut album ‘Moments’, the band has amassed over 300 million streams on Spotify, played at sold out shows across the world and earned their first Gold Single in Australia with their breakout hit ‘Coastline’. With a bunch of new music in the oven, Hollow Coves are eager to return to stages across Australia and The Tanks.
JANUARY 26
FEBRUARY 5
THE WIGGLES TICKETS AUSTRALIA Cairns Convention Centre Saturday, 10:00am theticketmerchant.com.au
THE WIGGLES are coming to perform for you in February as part of their Fruit Salad TV Big Show Tour!
AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Friday, 7:00am – 11:00am cairns.qld.gov.au
FEBRUARY 6
ISAAC BUTTERFIELD
Start your Australia Day celebrations off at Trinity Beach from 7am for a free sausage sizzle, live entertainment on stage, facepainters, beach activities for the kids and much more.
Gilligan’s Sunday, 7:00pm - 8:30pm cairnschamber.com.au
This show is strictly 18+. In the last two years, Isaac Butterfield has emerged as one of Australia’s most popular comedians for his dangerous, no holds barred brand of comedy. After being outlawed, banned and slandered by his opposition, Butterfield reemerges in 2021 with his most uncensored and provoking show yet — ‘Outlaw’. Be warned, this show is not for the faint of heart. Prepare yourself, the outlaw is town.
JANUARY 29-30
BLISS N ESO THE SUN TOUR (CAIRNS) Gilligan’s, 57/89 Grafton St www.gilligans.com.au
FEBRUARY 27
RARE DISEASE DAY FUN RUN AND WALK Cairns Esplanade Sunday, 8:00am - 11:00am
Illusive Presents and Frontier Touring are excited to announce a 29-date metro and regional Australian tour for one of the country’s finest hip hop acts, Bliss n Eso. In what is a truly national tour, the three-time ARIA-award winning group will take their electric energy and unmatchable flow to audiences in every Australian state and territory throughout January to April 2022.
Rare Friends is a community of supporters for Far North Queenslanders affected by rare conditions. Once a year, on the last Sunday of February we walk, ride and run to support locals affected by rare disease and commemorate International Rare Disease Day.
CityLife 7 Magazine
CityLife COVER STORY
CityLife COVER STORY
WHERE IT BEGAN Making it in the modelling game is no easy feat, but one local girl has done just that, wowing industry heavyweights and becoming the face of national brands such as Cotton On, Forever New and Universal Store.
It all began when Leilani Eddie won the Face of Cairns Central
By Danae Jones
“We’re incredibly passionate about embracing local talent at Cairns Central. Leilani was signed with CHIC Management as a result of winning Face of Cairns Central,” said Cairns Central Marketing Manager, Louise Struber. She grew up on an island off the north coast of Australia called Orpheus Island, her mother was a marine biologist and her father worked on the boats as an engineer. They moved to Cairns when she was in year 4, and then finished her schooling in Gordonvale, south of Cairns. After finishing school, one day she randomly decided to enter The Face of Cairns Central competition after her father took her and her sister shopping.
“THERE WAS NO PRE-PLAN AT ALL, SO THE DAY BEFORE IT ACTUALLY COMMENCED, MY SISTER AND I CAME TO THE CENTRE BECAUSE DAD WANTED US TO ENJOY SOME ‘FAMILY BONDING TIME TOGETHER’ AND WE SAW THE ADVERTISEMENT. WHO KNEW THAT A 14 YEAR OLD WOULD BE THE FACE OF CAIRNS CENTRAL!” LEILANI EDDIE LAUGHS.
competition three years ago, at the time she was only 14 years old.
Leilani graduated high school in 2020 and has been full-time modelling since then. She moved to Brisbane in January 2021 and hasn’t looked back.
CityLife 9 Magazine
CityLife COVER STORY
Q & A WITH LEILANI Favourite podcast at the moment: Common Chaos The Podcast with Cartia Mallan and Ashton Wood “very relatable on a youthful level”
WHERE IT BEGAN
Favourite place to visit in Cairns: Everything related to nature – waterfalls, creeks, the ocean (that was all such a big part of my childhood so that’s why I love to come back) By Danae Jones “I’ve met some wonderful people in the industry so far. The biggest thing I’ve noticed is that the most successful people and those that have the most longevity in the industry, are the people who are most down to earth. And so I’ve only had good experiences so far. And I’m just hoping it maintains that throughout the time I’m doing it.”
Her days are never idle, but self care is something she makes a priority to maintain her busy schedule. “We got a big routine going on now … ha ha ha. So a typical day I wake up, make my nutritional breakfast, I like to have a regime now because my life is all over the place with modelling and stuff, so I like to have nice food, consistency. So I do a walk, listen to a podcast. I’m all about that spiritual, emotional building at the moment. And if it’s a day of work, then I’d probably head straight to work in the morning, do a full day on set, come home, do some home chores and then exercise and go to sleep to be prepared for the next day. It’s all about being on time is the key to success.”
But she couldn’t be happier to be back in Far North Queensland for the festive season. “
I think the best thing about coming back to Cairns is coming back to a more relaxing aspect of life. Because it’s a little bit slower to obviously down south. So it’s good to take some time and just be in the moment I think, I love it here. And I do miss the heat, but it has grown on me, it is a bit colder down south, so I’m kind of shifting. But I love it up here, I’ll definitely be back when I’m older I think,” she said. With the travel restrictions lifting and international borders opening up she now has her sights firmly set on tackling the international stage. “I’m going to stay in Brisbane until probably mid July and fly interstate and test the waters and see how we go. So hopefully Sydney is on the cards at the end of next year and London hopefully so keeping it open. I’m supposed to go to uni, but once you get a taste of freedom, it’s a bit hard to look back!” You will see Leilani’s face in a lot of places this festive season as she returns not only for holidays and family time, she has also come home to where it all began, Cairns Central, to lead their latest campaign for the season. “Leilani has featured in various campaigns over the years, and we are so excited to bring her back to be one of our faces for our summer campaign,” said Cairns Central’s Louise Struber.
C i t y L i f e 10 M a g a z i n e
If you weren’t modelling what would you be doing: Probably volunteering or giving back – I think it’s such a fulfilling role in society. I think if I wasn’t modelling I would definitely be overseas doing that sort of thing and giving back. Biggest inspiration: Anyone that advocates spiritual or emotional growth and anyone who advocates for self love and natural beauty. And of course my Mum and Dad, they’ve been such a big part of my life and such a strong influence on me. What was it like seeing your face on a billboard for the first time for one of the big brands: It was definitely a pinch me moment. I think you have to remind yourself sometimes how far you’ve come, because you’re always looking for the future and thinking you can do better. So I think when you really stop still, you’re like WOW, I’ve actually done that! You feel like you’ve achieved quite a lot, and it’s kind of a nice feeling. What advice do you have for up and coming models? I think the most important thing is to just be yourself. I think if you have that natural ability to move and work with people, you’ll be able to achieve quite a lot in the industry and have longevity as well.
Create Magical Memories Book your Santa photos now at cairnscentral.com.au Located behind Centre Stage Bookings essential
Shop longer & later this Christmas with Cairns Central's extended trading hours Friday 17 December
9.00am – 6.00pm*
Thursday 23 December
Saturday 18 December
9.00am – 6.00pm*
Sunday 19 December Monday 20 December
9.00am – 6.00pm*
Monday 27 December
10.30am – 4.00pm*
Sunday 02 January
10.30am – 4.00pm*
Wednesday 22 December 9.00am – 6.00pm*
Tuesday 28 December
10.30am – 4.00pm*
Monday 03 January
10.30am – 4.00pm*
Tuesday 21 December
9.00am – 10.00pm*
Wednesday 29 December 9.00am – 5.30pm
Friday 24 December
9.00am – 5.00pm*
Thursday 30 December
9.00am – 9.00pm
9.00am – 5.00pm*
Christmas Day
CLOSED
Friday 31 December
9.00am – 5.30pm
9.00am – 6.00pm*
Boxing Day
9.00am – 5.00pm*
New Year’s Day
*Outside of normal trading hours. Major and selected speciality stores may trade extended hours. Retailer hours may vary, see individual stores for details.
10.30am – 4.00pm*
GIFT GUIDE By S t acey C arrick
W
elcome to CityLife’s special Christmas gift guide, packed full of fantastic ideas for your family, friends, co-workers and even yourself ! Now more than ever, it is important to spend time with our loved ones over Christmas and the holiday season. Far North Queensland residents are focused on decorating their homes, sprucing up their environment and buying something special for themselves or their loved ones this Christmas. Research shows that consumers are living in the moment more than ever before, purchasing big ticket items to treat themselves and spoiling family, friends and staff with gifts to show how much they appreciate them. Please remember to buy local and support your local retailers, rather than buying gifts online. We have searched far and wide across Cairns to assist you in sourcing the perfect present!
‘ TI S THE SEA SON FOR G I VI NG A ND FOR
SHOWI NG A PPR ECI ATI ON TO YOUR LOVED ONES FOR BEI NG THER E
FOR YOU A ND FOR EVERYTHI NG THEY
HAVE DONE FOR YOU
THR OUG HOUT THE YEA R.
It’s time for spending time with family and friends and for cherishing your relationships and friendships and appreciating how much you care about them. From the team at CityLife, we sincerely hope our gift guide assists you with some ideas and we wish you joy and happiness this festive season.
Our special guide starts with gifts for the special woman in your life, featuring a facial package, a Fitbit for the active ladies, a gorgeous dress, jewellery, sunglasses, a stylish satchel and even a beautifully scented perfume. Next we feature a huge variety of gifts for under $50 - there is definitely something to suit everyone in this range. Our kids’ section includes plenty of items for the little ones in your life, including clothing and toys. For the special man in your life, we showcase a range of clothing, shoes, accessories, books and cologne.
C i t y L i f e 12 M a g a z i n e
www.orchidplaza.com.au 58 Lake Street (next to Woolworths) - through to Abbott Street
HAS YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING COVERED
Home to Cairn's most diverse offering of Asian restaurants & takeaway, hair & beauty salons, massage therapists, pharmacy, news & lotto, jewellers, travel & tour agencies, professional services and international student support.
GETTING
OCEANA WALK IS HOME TO CAIRNS’ MOST HIP AND ECLECTIC RANGE OF FASHION, VINTAGE, HOMEWARES, GIFTS, HAIR, BEAUTY, JEWELLERY AND MORE.
By Stacey Carrick
W
ith Christmas just around the corner, the team at CityLife is looking forward to celebrating with family and friends. We are excited to present you with our Christmas gift guide, featuring a variety of ideas for the whole family. We hope you enjoy getting up close and personal with some of Cairns’ favourite personalities in our Christmas catch-ups section. A very special recipe is featured, followed by tips for glowing skin, fantastic fashion ideas and even some New Year’s Eve events. Please enjoy our festive edition and we look forward to catching up with you in our next edition.
Blackbird Laneway • Cizzling Asian Restaurant Community Foods • Pantry 15 Cafe Sunshine Sage Tea and Tonic Bar • Tropik Nutrition • Zambrero Mexican Dare Waxing & Tanning • Jo’s Scissors of Gold • Violet Nails & Waxing Botanic Republic ( Florist ) • Eggplant & Poppy • Gypsett Fashion House of Archeion • Jules Collins Jewellery • Kass and Ko The Other Shop • Vintage Seeker • La Bomboa Loca Tattoo LP Records • Pearls Books n Music • Warhammer Cairns
62 GRAFTON STREET CAIRNS QLD www.oceanawalk.com.au
C i t y L i f e 14 M a g a z i n e
New Years Eve
LIVE MUSIC TIL LATE BUBBLES & BOW TIES FIREWORKS ON THE WATERFRONT PARTY DECK WITH FULL BAR MATES RATES FROM 3PM - 5PM DAILY LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY 5PM- 8PM LIVE MUSIC EVERY SUNDAY 1PM - 4PM OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 6:30AM UNTIL LATE PHONE: 0439 361 112 WEBSITE: WWW.CHILLATPORTOFINO.COM FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM @CHILLATPORTOFINO
#THEEYE
FASHION, SWIMWEAR AND ACCESSORIES
theeyeboutique@tpg.com.au Shop 57 Cairns Central Shopping 1-21 McLeod St, Cairns. Qld 4870 P 07 40314675
Coconut Grove Shop 7/ 57 Macrossan St, Port Douglas. Qld 4877 P 07 40995526
C i t y L i f e 15 M a g a z i n e
Like us on
` Facebook @ The Eye Boutique Follow us on™Instagram www.theeyeboutique.com.au
Tea Lily
has all the Beautiful Dresses & Gorgeous Gifts for this Christmas.
59 Grafton Street, Cairns | 4041 4150 tealily@gmail.com | www.tealily.com.au QE
GIFTS FOR
Her
01
03
02
04
08 05
07 06
01 $99 24 Karat Gold Therapy and Facial Package The Trinity Spa by Healing Touch - Orchid Plaza 02 $149.95 Fitbit Inspire 2 (Free1-Year Fitbit Premium trial) Target Australia - Cairns Central 03 From $55 Gift Pack Necklace and Earrings Set - Tea Lily Boutique
04 $169 Ladybird Mini Dress in Dahlia Wild Sugar - The Pier Shopping Centre 05 $385.60 Versace VE2232 Sunglass Hut - Cairns Central
06 $224.95 Limited Edition Women’s Dance Pink Square Scarf Mainie - www.mainie.com.au 07 $229 Tommy Hilfiger Soft Black Zip Top Satchel Myer Cairns - Cairns Central
08 $117 Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Forever EDP 50ml Priceline - Cairns Central
C i t y L i f e 17 M a g a z i n e
GIFTS UNDER
$50
01
04
03
02
05
10
06
07
09
08
01 $49 Smart Clock Essential JB HiFi - Cairns Central (Lenovo)
02 $47.20 Stonewash Quilt Cover Set Charcoal - Double Bed Target Australia - Cairns Central (Arlo) 03 $29 Stick Mixer Set Target Australia - Cairns Central (Bellini 400W)
04 $28 Gin Lovers - Puzzle Eggplant and Poppy - Oceana Walk Arcade 05 $40 Fern Vase Eggplant and Poppy - Oceana Walk Arcade
06 $44 Blackbird Fair Trade Organic Garana Blend - 1KG
07 $40 Imbibe Miracle Collagen 100g Gypsett - Oceana Walk Arcade
08 Under $50 Salsa Dance Lessons - Salsa Dance Lessons - Sabor Dance Company - for gift vouchers phone Jose on 0402 004 681 09 From $12 Handmade Earrings And Key Chains – Sherbet Candy Designs By Dee - Handmade in Mareeba to order go to Q @sherbet_candy_designs_by_dee
10 $50 Half Body Oil Massage Cool Body - Orchid Plaza
C i t y L i f e 18 M a g a z i n e
GIFTS FOR
01 03
04
02
05
07
06
08
01 $9.99 Create Your Own Planet Mobile QBD Books - Cairns Central
02 $15 Wahu Dino Pool Pets Assorted Target Australia - Cairns Central 03 $79.00 Glow Pro Scooter K-Mart - Cairns Central
04 $49 Furreal Sweet Jammiecorn Unicorn Plush Toy Myer Cairns - Cairns Central 05 $26.00 Milkshake Pikachu Pyjamas Black Myer Cairns - Cairns Central
06 $179.99 Spalding x Space Jam: A New Legacy Squad 32 inch Portable Basketball Rebel Sports - Cairns Central 07 $8 Organic Cotton Pyjama Set Target Australia - Cairns Central
08 $279 Nintendo Switch Lite Turquoise Target Australia - Cairns Central
C i t y L i f e 19 M a g a z i n e
AR B R E I THE P SENTS PRE
1 3 Y A D FRI ER B M E C DE
T H TRY G I N C N E I S D 0 I U 2 $ TCH M LIVE M IFT A 0PM S W 1 K M R O H O R S FIREW ALCONY F NIGHT TOTH N M RB A A U 5 Y O R L I J M T &D EN FRO P M O P 9 FROM
THEPIERBAR .COM . AU
GIFTS FOR
01
03 04
02
06
05
08
07
01 $135 HUGO BOSS The Scent Him Pure Fresh Accord EDT 100ml Priceline - Cairns Central 02 $20 Whiskey Decanter Set Target Australia - Cairns Central
03 $19.99 Dermal Therapy Exfoliating Foot Mask Alive Pharmacy - Orchid Plaza 04 $25.49 Malani Printed Linen Shirt yd. Cairns Central 05 $41.99 Tan Stuart Shoe Connor - Cairns Central
06 $179.99 Camelbak Ambush 3L Mil Spec Crux Totally Workwear Cairns - 98 Scott Street, Cairns 07 $429 Garmin Forerunner 745 Multisport Watch Black Rebel Sport - Cairns Central 08 $35 The Incredible Life of Hurbert Wilkins QBD Books - Cairns Central
C i t y L i f e 21 M a g a z i n e
Q&A WITH SOME OF CAIRNS’ FAVOURITE PERSONALITIES
Ty Williams
Head of Football/Intrust Super Cup Coach Kenfrost Homes Northern Pride
Bella Sinopoli
Bella Boutique Hire Est. November 2020; Cairns City
Describe your 2021? In the role that I play at the Northern Pride it’s always a rollercoaster of emotion, but I’m very excited about what the future looks like with our club. What was the best thing you learnt in 2021? Don’t waste energy on things that I can’t control and embrace change. What does Christmas Day involve for you? I have two boys so it’s up early with the wife. Kids to open the presents then head to family for a big lunch then relax after that. What is your favourite part about the festive season? Spending quality time with the family and friends. Are you a last minute shopper or do you plan ahead? 100% a last minute shopper What gifts can we buy from your business? A 2022 membership from the Northern Pride. We cover from the die-hard supporter who wants to attend all games or the
person who just wants to attend a few, we also cater for the supporters from outside the region who can’t attend the games. Do you have a New Year’s resolution for 2022? Not at the moment. Where would you like to travel to in 2022 and why? I haven’t really pinpointed a solo place I would like to travel but I think the freedom to start picking and choosing again is going to be great. Where is your favourite place to dine in Cairns? I don’t dine out that much but my favourite take away is 3 Black Bears Pizza. For a staycation in FNQ where do you go? When I’m not at football and have a spare moment, I love taking the family away to Port Douglas. It’s a good chance to get away and chill and reset for all of us.
Describe your 2021? 2021 was an unexpected blessing! I am aware not everyone can say this given the state of the world at the moment but I am truly grateful for 2021. I launched my online site, saw my business flourish, we sold our home and for the first time in my life I have been able to live with the idea of not being totally planned out and in control. What was the best thing you learnt in 2021? You can’t move forward if you stand still and some of the greatest risks you take in life will become your greatest blessings. What does Christmas Day involve for you? Church, because it’s Jesus’s birthday. Food, glorious food.. but seriously an all day Italian feast & lots of friends, family and presents. What is your favourite part about the festive season? I LOVE the spontaneous catch ups with friends and family that you don’t always see because it’s the season to travel! The seasonal fruit and the gift giving! I loveeee buying presents! Especially for my daughter, nieces and nephews! Are you a last minute shopper or do you plan ahead? I’m a bit of an online shopper now that I have a toddler (Mums know how hard it is to take their kids into a busy shopping centre.. avoid at all costs) haha so I’d say I plan ahead.. because you know.. mum life haha. What gifts can we buy from your business? You can buy a gift voucher or treat yourself by hiring a luxury designer outfit over the festive season. Do you have a New Year’s resolution for 2022? I don’t love the idea of New Year’s resolutions.. haha I feel like they’re a little tricky
to sustain. I prefer to set short term goals for my business and personally. In 2022 I’d love to see my business grow to a point where 50% of my orders are online and the other 50% are local. Right now my business is 70% local clientele. Where would you like to travel to in 2022 and why? If 2021 taught me anything it’s that you can’t really put a price on spending time with your family and your health. For me I really look forward to our Gold Coast family holiday every year with my extended family, it’s a special time where we all get to connect and enjoy each other without the stress of everyday normal life. I’m quite happy to stay in Queensland next year and work towards some overseas travel when the world is back to some sort of normal and Gracie is a bit older (my three-year-old daughter). Where is your favourite place to dine in Cairns? My all time favourite favourite meal is from Dundee’s on the Waterfront — the prawn & scallop pappardelle to be exact haha can’t go wrong if you love seafood & pasta! I also love to have tapas and cocktails at Rocco by Crystalbrook on the Esplanade. The ‘Pucker Up’ & ‘Rukkus on the Rooftop’ are the ultimate cocktails in my opinion. For a staycation in FNQ where do you go? Hands down 110% Riley by Crystalbrook. I will forever and always adore our Cairns Esplanade. They also have the most outstanding pool, amazing food and rooms are luxury and comfortable. My other favourite place to stay would be Mount Mulligan Lodge. This is just outside of Dimbulah and was hands down the most exquisite, romantic and adventurous getaway I have ever been on, adults only also!
C i t y L i f e 22 M a g a z i n e
Describe your 2021? A very trying year for a builder, enormous success with the building boost followed by many challenges the likes of which we have never seen. Shortages of the most common materials due to increased global demand as well as domestic influences including bushfires and flooding. What was the best thing you learnt in 2021? Patience is a virtue and perseverance pays off. The whole team are working very hard for our customers to keep the jobs flowing as best we can. What does Christmas Day involve for you? Preparing a fresh seafood feast for the whole family to enjoy. What is your favourite part about the festive season? Spending time with loved ones and enjoying some time away from the office. Are you a last minute shopper or do you plan ahead? A bit of both, there are always last minute things to buy but I like to be prepared.
What gifts can we buy from your business? Houses, everybody needs a house. Do you have a New Year’s resolution for 2022? After spending nearly two years of not travelling I would certainly like to enjoy exploring different countries and cities again. Where would you like to travel to in 2022 and why? Europe, we had a big trip planned in 2020 that was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions so we would like to be able to do that next year. Where is your favourite place to dine in Cairns? There are too many to mention, there are so many great restaurants in Cairns to single out a few. For a staycation in FNQ where do you go? We love weekends in Palm Cove, so many restaurants within walking distance, the beach and the ocean. It’s like being on holiday but in our backyard — it takes a lot less preparation and the dogs can come too.
Describe your 2021? 2021 has been a very different year, we all started the year hoping that the COVID impact was going to be a distant memory, unfortunately for the tourism and closely related sectors, COVID has dealt too many blows. We’ve seen an even greater divide in the economies of Cairns and the Far North – most sectors that are unrelated to tourism and reliance on international and domestic visitors have gone from strength to strength. What was the best thing you learnt in 2021? People crave kindness, be kind – it’s a free commodity and works wonders. What does Christmas Day involve for you? Christmas day is all about connecting with family, our wider network of family are all descending to our house this year, to celebrating with far too much food. What is your favourite part about the festive season? My favourite part of Christmas is that my kids come home for an extended period, and in between our partying and socialising, we make time to hang out, just the four of us – to reconnect. Are you a last minute shopper or do you plan ahead? In about October, I always promise myself that ‘this year I will be more organised’ and by mid December, I do the usual running around like a headless chicken cursing
my lack of planning…. So I am certain that this year will be no different – but presents are not the focus of our Christmas time, my kids are now young adults, so the gift buying is less of the emphasis. Do you have a New Year’s Resolution for 2022? Since I turned 40, I have made a promise to stretch myself out of my comfort zone each year – goals have been to climb Kilimanjaro TICK, cycle the Cardiac Challenge TICK, swim the iron man leg in the triathlon TICK, embrace public speaking TICK, …. My SMART goal for 2022 will incorporate focus on self, and focus on a more balanced work/life balance….. optimistic I know!!! Where would you like to travel to in 2022 and why? Back to the UK to visit my parents, one of my brothers and my friends (COVID has been cruel for family connections) and I also have a brother in Madagascar – and I am keen to plan a trip to visit him. Where is your favourite place to dine in Cairns? Difficult questions, there are too many to choose from, but I do love C’est Bon!! For a Staycation in FNQ where do you go? Always, Palm Cove – you cannot beat the location, the dining options, the beach and the chillax factor.
Describe your 2021? What 2021? Haha, busy, eventful and a year spent focusing on what’s important in my life. What was the best thing you learnt in 2021? How to deal with people’s feelings, wants and needs in this new world we are living in. What does Christmas Day involve for you? Reliving my childhood memories through my daughter, the excitement of waking up on Christmas morning to all the presents and spending the day with family. What is your favourite part about the festive season? Christmas parties, spending quality time with family and friends and taking time out to relax and reset for the New Year.
Are you a last minute shopper or do you plan ahead? I always plan ahead. What gifts can we buy from your business? (Greg could be a gift if you paid enough haha) can we remove this Q? Do you have a New Year’s Resolution for 2022? No. Where would you like to travel to in 2022 and why? Too many to choose from where do I start? Where is your favourite place to dine in Cairns? Dundee’s at the Aquarium. For a Staycation in FNQ where do you go? Palm Cove.
Andrew Thomas
Dixon Homes Cairns Est. 1959 ; 172-174 Mulgrave Road Westcourt
Sally Mlikota
CBC Staff Selection Est. 1988; Cairns and Townsville
Amanda Paron
Norlift Est. 2000; Far North Queensland, Cooktown & Weipa
C i t y L i f e 23 M a g a z i n e
Target Reopens
ICONIC AUSTRALIAN RETAILER, TARGET AUSTRALIA, IS EXCITED TO REOPEN ITS DOORS TO NORTH QUEENSLAND CUSTOMERS THIS MONTH WITH THE OPENING OF THEIR CAIRNS STORE. Target Australia is proud to reopen its doors to the Cairns community this month. With quality products that customers can touch and feel, the 3400sqm retail space highlights the retailer’s ongoing commitment to inspiring families to live better by making it easy for them to afford quality and style. Delivering affordable, quality fashion that Australians have come to expect, the store has an increased product offering, seven new fitting rooms and eight assisted checkouts for customer convenience. Located in the heart of Cairns Central, the largest shopping centre in Far North Queensland, the new Target Cairns store will service both the city and the extensive surrounding communities. Target Australia Managing Director, Richard Pearson, said the company was thrilled to continue building on their connection and history within the local Cairns community. “At Target our customers are at the heart of our business, and we want to design, create and curate meaningful quality products and experiences that families can trust,” he said. “We’re so proud of our rich heritage, and the role we play within our Target communities, which is why we’re so excited to reopen our Target store to the Cairns community. “Target first came to Cairns in 1997, and we’re so pleased that the decision was made to stay by the Kmart Group, allowing us to remain a part of the Cairns community. We’re really looking forward to continuing our 24-year history in Cairns by reconnecting with our customers and delivering on our brand promise of inspiring families to live better. C i t y L i f e 24 M a g a z i n e
“This is such an exciting time for the Target business as we get back to what we’re famous for; affordable real quality products that stand up to the test of everyday life. The opening of our Cairns store is such an important step not only in our Target journey, but for our long history in Cairns and we can’t wait to welcome our customers back in with open arms.” Store manager Matthew Sumara said preparations for the store opening began in August. “I feel incredibly proud to be involved in the transformation of this store, which will showcase Target’s versatile product offering that’s focused on real quality products at affordable prices,” he said. The Target Cairns team has hired more than 90 team members from the local community, including the store management team, with five team members transferring from Target Earlville. “We are thrilled to have employed 90 new team members into the Target family, which really reflects our investment in the local community, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work the team have put into this store already,” Matthew said. “We know that life is a little unusual at the moment, so being able to support our Cairns community with more products, more convenience and more choice, is amazing and something we’re really excited for.” The new store will have an offering across all Target product categories. Click and Collect services will also be available, which includes the collection of orders from Catch.com. au as part of the retailer’s investment in providing more convenience and choice to their customers.
COLOUR
WE'RE THE EXPERTS IN ALL THINGS COLOUR FROM BALAYAGE, HIGHLIGHTS AND GLOSSES, GREY COVERAGE AND COLOUR CORRECTIONS. YOUR STYLIST WILL USE INTENSIVE COLOUR KNOWLEDGE TO CHOOSE WHAT PRODUCT/PROCESS TO USE BASED ON YOUR CONSULTATION AND HAIR #GOALS
www.tokunaihair.com
CityLife FEATURE
A Lasting Legacy ME LI SSA N IEL SEN By S t acey C arrick
The Cairns community lost a beautiful soul in Melissa Nielsen just over a year ago. Melissa was a loving wife, a mother to three children, a friend, a prominent lawyer, a valued member of the Cairns community and a passionate advocate and fundraiser for the Send Hope Not Flowers maternal health charity. Melissa sadly found out she was dying of terminal brain cancer in May last year. She had just a few weeks to say goodbye to her family, friends and co-workers before passing away in June 2020. The Send Hope Not Flowers charity decided to honour her memory in a way that symbolised how much her hard work and passion for motherhood had impacted on the women and babies of Papua New Guinea. They organised a special funding pool where friends, relatives and admirers could donate in the wake of her untimely death at just 38. Charity co-founder Emma Macdonald said an incredible $25,000 was generated. This money is now going towards building ‘Melissa House’, a labour ward and waiting house in Walagi, PNG, (replacing a very basic one-delivery bed facility in dire need of upgrading to deal with demand). “What an incredible result for her friends and family to know that she was so loved and her story touched so many people that even complete strangers felt compelled to donate,” she said. The doctor behind this project is Barry Kirby, who Melissa adored. “We know this is what she would have wanted and her parents Ken and Robyn, husband Rudy, and children Harrison, Jasmine and Edison are thrilled to see this project go ahead,” Emma said. “Thank you to all those who donated, to Melissa’s wonderful team at Miller Harris Lawyers Cairns and Mareeba and to the incredible Cairns community who continue to feel her loss every day. When I first met Melissa a couple of years ago I was struck by her sunny smile and complete unflappability. What I do know is everyone loved Melissa and respected her for her huge heart and prodigious work ethic. Melissa came to Send Hope with the purest of intentions. That she would cry every year giving her thank you speech showed very clearly she connected to our desire to help more mothers survive childbirth. Because ultimately, while Melissa was brilliant at being a lawyer and a fundraiser, her proudest role in life was being a mum. That was what it was all about for her. I hope her children carry with them pride in their mother’s good work and understand that in the unthinkable loss of someone so vibrant and filled with life and love, a tiny glimmer of hope will grow for other mothers through the construction of Melissa House in PNG.” The Send Hope Not Flowers website allows you to make a donation to life-saving maternal health programs in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. The website encourages donations to safe birth programs instead of sending flowers to the maternity ward when a mother has a baby. “New mothers will receive a beautiful card with a message from you,” Emma said. “They’ll know that you’ve made a donation in their honour which will help save the life of another mother. For the cost of a bunch of flowers, you can help save the life of another mother in the developing world. Because flowers die. Women giving birth shouldn’t.” For further information or to make a donation, visit www. sendhope.org. Please consider making a donation at Christmas, Mother’s Day, or any time a mother has a baby.
C i t y L i f e 26 M a g a z i n e
of
Sea
SUCCESS By Danae Jones
Petra Meikle de Vlas is capturing the hearts and minds of all who encounter her. TV shows such as The Block, House Rules and Foxtel’s Love It Or List It, have all fallen in love with her paintings and art galleries both physical and online can’t get enough of her work. She is a humble artist hailing from the small northern beaches suburb of Holloways Beach in Cairns, and her new found stardom has caught her by surprise. “I DIDN’T REALLY KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING WHEN IT ALL TOOK OFF. IT HAS JUST SKYROCKETED. AND IT’S LIKE LITTLE OLD YOU, ALL OF A SUDDEN IN THE SPOTLIGHT. THE NATIONAL MEDIA COVERAGE HAS BEEN QUITE PHENOMENAL, IT’S TAKEN ON A LIFE OF ITS OWN,” SAID PETRA MEIKLE DE VLAS.
CityLife FEATURE
CityLife FEATURE Her majestic paintings of the sea and sand cays off Far North Queensland are breathtakingly beautiful. Some of Australia’s most well known interior designers are lining up to commission her to create signature pieces to adorn walls in commercial and residential properties. Petra’s unique way of mixing colours, paints, textures and 3D elements have proven a real show stopper.
The single mother of two is driven to succeed with her insatiable passion for painting as not only a way to provide for her family, but fulfil her dream of being a full-time artist. But she is quick to thank those who’ve been her biggest cheerleaders through it all and credits Art Lovers Australia for putting her name on the map. “The TV shows all became aware of me through Art Lovers Australia and without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. We have the same values and ethics and we’ve formed a great relationship based on trust. They have been so supportive of me.” She has a unique way of showcasing the Great Barrier Reef and all its wonder in magnificent canvas pieces, and for someone who knows good art when he sees it, Veteran Gallerist Tom Colrain says the interest in her work will only continue to grow as more and more people are exposed to it.
SEA of SUCCESS
“There’s a lot of people who can pick up a paint brush and create art, but the difference with a successful artist that has the ability to make a lifelong career out of it, is someone that has that constant desire to do better and push their artistic limits. Petra has that. She is a very humble person, but she is willing to take guidance and feedback and she possesses a strong desire to always do better,” said Tom Colrain. Tom Colrain has mentored and befriended some of the nation’s most prolific artists throughout their careers including some of the world’s most famous indigenous and Archibald Prize winning artists. “You really get to know the artists well and you become great friends. It’s a trust thing. Becoming successful in the art world doesn’t happen overnight and it takes a lot of hard work and the willingness to persevere through the down times. And there are a lot of down times to begin with. So you ride those waves with your artists and the bond you form is quite special.” Tom owns two galleries in Port Douglas (Australian & Oceanic Art Gallery and Australian & Oceanic Art Gallery For Collectors) and he has taken it upon himself to mentor Petra as she enters this heightened phase of her career and show her how to navigate the art world. It is something Petra is incredibly grateful for. “He has seen something in me and I am very excited to be chosen to exhibit in his galleries. His guidance has been a dream come true for me,” said Petra. When the onset of the global pandemic took hold and many industries were forced to shut down, Petra’s art sales did the complete opposite. “It was surreal, I couldn’t understand it. I guess a lot of people were home and they turned to decorating their world and started doing the renovations that they’d always wanted to do. “I actually fell in a heap as I had to double my output of work, and the value of my paintings had gone up, the demand was so high for my work and the pressure was high too. I literally just collapsed from so much painting and the expectation to succeed. Not an expectation from others, but more of one I had put on myself. I have never sold so many paintings in all my life.
Phot ogra p h y b y Ver on ic a S e gre do f rom Blu ec lic k P h ot og r a p h y
“Tom was so great during that initial time as he told me how I was feeling was completely normal. When an artist is discovered in a big way they do find it hard with all the pressure and expectation and there is an
C i t y L i f e 28 M a g a z i n e
CityLife FEATURE overwhelming sense that the next painting has to be better than the last. A constant striving for perfection if you like. And he just kept reminding me that what I was feeling was normal and something that every successful artist goes through and that constant desire to be better is what will make me last in the industry. He would say that this is part of your journey and it is what will push you to the next level. People like that are so important to have around you in those moments.” Art galleries continue to enquire to showcase her work across the country. “I was recently chosen to be amongst some of Australia’s biggest named artists in an online art auction and I was listed in the ‘renowned Australian artists’ category, which is hard for me to wrap my head around to be honest.” Her love of art has always been there and it is something she always knew she wanted to do. “I have always been into art right from a young age and I was always told I was good at it. I guess as a child you gravitate to what you are told you’re good at as you want to be good at something. And so I continued to paint. I come from a very creative family, my parents were very arty.” Although she knew she had talent and wanted to one day make a living from her art, she hadn’t dedicated her time and energy to it until recently. “I always knew I would make a living from it one day, but you know life gets in the way. Family, kids etc, I think there’s probably a lot of women that can relate to me saying that. Once I’d moved out of that baby zone with the kids I wanted to really give it a go and I knew as soon as I picked up that paint brush for real it would take me and I would be all consumed by it. That was five years ago that I did that. I was in an experimental phase for the first few years and I ran the business at a loss for a number of years. But then it just started to happen. People started noticing my work.” Her inspiration comes from many and varied sources and she says believe it or not, it’s not necessarily from sitting on the beach or being out on the ocean.
PETRA MEIKLE DE VLAS
“ALTHOUGH I HAVE DONE A LOT OF THAT LIVING WHERE WE LIVE AND IT IS THE MAIN SUBJECT OF MY WORK, WHAT INSPIRES ME MORE THAN ANYTHING ARE FEELINGS. THINGS THAT HAPPEN THAT EVOKE AN EMOTION IN ME. IT COULD BE A DEEP AND MEANINGFUL CONVERSATION WITH SOMEONE, A MOVIE THAT SPARKS A CERTAIN SOMETHING IN ME, A PIECE OF NATURE THAT CAPTIVATES MY SENSES. I AM INSPIRED BY A WHOLE RANGE OF THINGS IN MY LIFE.”
She says she can’t explain what gives her the energy and determination to succeed at this point in her life, but being a mother has certainly contributed to the forward propulsion. “I’d love my kids in my lifetime to be able to look up and go, look at Mum she did this, she did that. I guess I am always striving for something greater and I want to make a name for myself in the art world. I don’t know why I am driven to do that. I want to do it for me, but I also want to do it for my kids.”
To view Petra’s work visit her Facebook page @artbypetrameikledevlas or go online to www.artloversaustralia.com.au or see her art in person at the following Port Douglas Art Galleries - Australian & Oceanic Art Gallery and Australian & Oceanic Art Gallery For Collectors.
C i t y L i f e 29 M a g a z i n e
THE
NAME IS NO GIMMICK
Professional Nanny Agency on the Cassowary Coast, Cairns and Northern Beaches
Nannies on a Mission provides personable, caring and reliable childcare support to families across Far North Queensland.
O U R T EA M
Whether you’re looking for a temporary or full-time nanny, or something in between – we understand and are here to help you to make the best childcare choice for your children. We offer families a combined service of housekeeping, home cooks, childcare and PA duties that allow you to have more quality time with your loved ones when you need it most. Servicing Mission Beach, Cairns, the Northern Beaches, Port Douglas and the Tablelands, we have every inch of FNQ covered for your childcare needs.
Contact Us - We'd love to hear from you! 0413 810 031
nanniesonamission.com.au
CityLife PROFILE
Phot og r ap h y b y C at h e ri n e C o o m b s
Modern-Day Mary Poppins By S t acey C arrick
Sarah Jones has come a long way from growing up on a farm in Tully to being a nanny for some of the most rich and famous people in the world. Despite regularly liaising with Hollywood celebrities, royal families and chefs, the most important thing to Sarah is the children she looks after as she is highly invested in them as individuals. She is highly sought after as a super nanny due to her dedication, enthusiasm and beliefs. “Nannies are the wind beneath your wings,” Sarah said. “They are superheroes without capes, the answer to your prayers. If you don’t have grandparents nearby, they are a fantastic support system. Nannies give you more ‘me time’ to do the things you need to do, our aim is to make life easier for you. Nannies on a Mission are not just babysitters. We provide childcare, but we can also do housekeeping and cooking. We are a modern day Mary Poppins. Your nanny becomes an extended part of your family, we are there when you need an extra pair of hands to chaperone children, represent parents at different events or simply attend swimming lessons, haircuts or gift buying plus be at home to meet the tradie. We offer a holistic approach as we help make a family’s life easier and we are so much more flexible than traditional daycare options.”
Nannies on a Mission started, ironically enough, in Mission Beach, and now also services Cairns, Port Douglas and the Tablelands. Sarah saw the opportunity to try something new and different after Cyclone Yasi devastated the region in 2011. She was based in London and has also lived in Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, Greece, Austria and Germany while looking after the children of actors affiliated with Game of Thrones, Sex and the City, Mamma Mia! and Step Up. Sarah also attended VIP events such as Paris Fashion Week and the Cannes Film Festival. Discretion is of utmost importance to Sarah’s clients and celebrities she has rubbed shoulders with, although a few she is allowed to mention include Camilla Franks, featured in a recent edition of CityLife Magazine, Pink (Sarah loved her shoes!), Sean Penn (a very funny guy!) and chef Neill Anthony. She also met a very famous American singer, who shall remain unnamed, because that’s the way love goes! The buzz in Mission Beach at the moment is over the film Irreverent, currently being filmed there. Sarah and her team are out in force assisting families involved with the movie. Nannies on a Mission stems from Sarah’s love of being confident, efficient, helpful and supportive, as well as her love of playgrounds. “I have an ability to talk to anyone,” she
said. “I love being organised. I love executing plans with amazing results, looking at something and going above and beyond. That’s who we are. “When you are in the company of a child, it is a good excuse to have fun, as well as being a role model. I have always been a fun yet firm nanny, someone who children warm to and want to be around.
“NANNIES ON A MISSION ARE NOT JUST BABYSITTERS. WE PROVIDE CHILDCARE, BUT WE CAN ALSO DO HOUSEKEEPING AND COOKING. WE ARE A MODERN DAY MARY POPPINS.” “We also work with parents so we act as role models to their children. Our nannies are tailored to suit the needs of each individual family. We mirror the parenting style of the family and lead by example.” Sarah said employing the services of a nanny has numerous benefits for couples wanting to enjoy holidays, date nights and weddings or other occasions. “We enjoy doing craft activities with children,” she said. “Crafts give children something to show for their time, they also teach them about sharing equally, being patient and time management.” Nannies on a Mission currently has 25 nannies in the region and is on the lookout for more nannies — they are looking for people with childcare qualifications, a Blue Card, First Aid certificate and a police check. The Junior Nanny program commenced recently, providing on-the-job training for nannies aged from 16 to 20. * Visit www.nanniesonamission.com.au for further information, if you would like the services of a nanny, or if you would like to become one.
C i t y L i f e 31 M a g a z i n e
MAGAZINE
HAS COME TO LIFE! Hear from our expert contributors and learn how to live a more fulfilling life… AND all the tips and tricks on increasing your wealth! Curated content just for YOU on all things business, finance, health, fashion, lifestyle, food and real estate.
FOOD
BUSINESS
HOME DECOR
FASHION & BEAUTY
HEALTH
GARDENING
REAL ESTATE
SPORT
READ, WATCH & LISTEN whenever and wherever suits you.
FISHING & CAMPING
WELLBEING
New episodes
G
LIVE
EACH WEEK.
www.citylifemedia.com.au
CityLife
CityLife WELLBEING
WELLBEING
Love Yourself First
VIOLETTA SEKLER
: info@violettasekler.com : www.violettasekler.com
Vio l etta Sekl er i s a P e r s ona l a nd Rela ti onshi p Coac h dr i v e n to he l p pe opl e su cc eed i n l i fe and l ov e .
I
•
t’s a full-time job believing in yourself — it really is! So too is the practice of self-love and self-care. And now more than ever we need to be making time to love ourselves first.
• Get that massage or facial or go buy yourself those F*#!king flowers – don’t wait for someone else to do it. Just buy them and shower yourself with some feel good vibes.
As mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, partners and friends we can be forgiven for often thinking of ourselves last as we have so many people drawing on our attention and energy in our personal lives, not to mention our work lives. To be able to give ourselves fully and positively to all those elements of our lives, we need to be continually filling our own cups up. Stop waiting for some day to take care of yourself — start today. You won’t regret it, I promise you! Here are some helpful tips on how you can get started in the daily practice of self love and self care: • Practise gratitude. Write down five things each morning before you start your day of what you are grateful for.
forms is incredibly soothing for the central nervous system. And it allows you the opportunity to clear your head.
• Buy that new outfit you’ve had your heart set on. A little retail therapy never harmed anybody. And when you put on new threads it makes you feel better. You’ll show up differently in life when you love what you’re wearing — trust me! Start your day with something pleasant – it might be enjoying a nice cup of tea or coffee in the peace and quiet of your garden before everyone else gets up in the household. Or listening to a guided meditation, or reading another chapter of that book you’ve been wanting to finish. Whatever it is for you, do it. • Exercise – attend a yoga class, go for a ride on your bike, meditate or go for a walk. Exercising your mind is just as important as exercising your body. Movement in all its
C i t y L i f e 33 M a g a z i n e
• Take five minutes to decompress every single day before coming home. Allow yourself to let go of the stresses of life/work before you enter your own sanctuary, your home. • Get a good night’s sleep. Sleep is one of the best medicines in the world. Allowing your brain to defrag and your body to rejuvenate is essential. No matter what, make sure you do at least one thing for YOU Every. Single. Day.
H E A LT H
CityLife
CityLife HEALTH
WHOLELIFE PHARMACY & HEALTHFOODS
Let’s Talk Vaccinations
VINCE PAPPALARDO : wholelife.com.au
C o -F o under a nd Pha r m aci st
I
am urging people to protect themselves against COVID-19 at this time and get vaccinated.
If you are having reservations about it, don’t. It’s important that everyone has the vaccine. In this modern era, we are doing it for the protection of the community, because this virus is nasty, especially the Delta strain. It can kill people. We cannot guarantee you won’t contract Covid if you get the vaccination, however if you do contract Covid after being vaccinated, it speeds up recovery and means you won’t get gravely ill. The reality is, if you don’t get the vaccination, you may find yourself in ICU struggling to survive. There has been a lot of complacency, especially in regional areas, where we haven’t had a great deal of lockdowns and I understand that many regional centres have
been very fortunate and have been spared the worst of this pandemic. But complacency is not going to help us get back on our feet as a nation.
There are discussions that booster shots will be required in 2022. And with the onset of new variants it is critical that we all keep our vaccinations up to date.
We as a community pharmacy were so happy when the Federal Government allowed the vaccine to be administered by our health professionals.
There has been a lot of criticism and negative publicity regarding the AstraZeneca vaccine. Bottom line, it is safe, it is Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved. Evidence today shows that it is an appropriate treatment option for many people.
We’ve had people coming into the pharmacy constantly asking us ‘When can we get the vaccination?’ As qualified health professionals on the front line in the health industry, we have administered thousands of vaccinations to the community, making it easier for us to reach our target. Reaching our national vaccination target gives us the safety of being able to see our family and loved ones who have been isolated because of these lockdowns.
But there are numerous vaccines available - I would recommend people consult with their doctor, they are the ones who are aware of your health requirements and to not listen to other people’s stories. On the market right now we have Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Moderna. There are plenty of treatment options available, so please come and see us if you have not yet had your vaccination.
WATCH & LISTEN NOW TV
RADIO
PODCAST
ONLINE
YOUTUBE
For more info go to www.citylifemedia.com.au
C i t y L i f e 34 M a g a z i n e
CityLife WELLBEING
TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION®
The Transcendental Meditation® Remedy For Isolation
: www.tm.org.au
T
he Transcendental Meditation® technique first made headlines in Australia when its founder, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, visited Australia in 1962, almost 60 years ago. At the time the Beatles famously learnt the TM technique and raved about its many benefits. Since that time tens of thousands of people have learnt TM, including many other celebrities. But the world leaders of the global movement are calling on Australians to take up the daily practice in a bid to combat the feeling of isolation that has been brought on by the impacts of the global pandemic and they say it is not just a practice for the rich and famous to bring inner peace, it is a technique available to everybody to learn and benefit from. “Maharishi’s vision has always been to make TM readily available to everybody regardless of their socio economic status. COVID-19 has brought with it many challenges, not least of which are multiple lockdowns, travel restrictions, people unable to see loved ones for significant life events such as funerals, weddings and births. The unresolved grief for many is weighing heavy on them and we know through 40+ years of evidence based research that by adopting the daily practice of Transcendental Meditation® it not only reduces anxiety, regular practice of the technique gives a brighter, more positive state of mind and outlook on life,” said the national director of the Transcendental Meditation® organisation in Australia, Dr Tim Carr. According to The Medical Journal of Australia, the sad reality is that anxiety and depression are rising rapidly during this pandemic. “In the past 12 months alone, the increased incidence of depression and anxiety is being felt across the nation and there is a very real concern that if not addressed people will have long lasting mental health impacts. “It is up to each and every one of us to check in on one another now more so than ever. But it is also true that we all need to take the time to check in on ourselves and give ourselves the time and space for self care. Daily meditation costs nothing to do once taught and it is something we can all do to protect our mind, body and soul from illness and that feeling of helplessness,” said Dr Tim Carr. “Daily meditation is a very simple method that each and every one of us can do to keep ourselves supported and functioning at our best. “The Transcendental Meditation® technique allows your mind to easily settle inward, until you experience the most silent and peaceful level of your own awareness. It is completely different to other meditation techniques as it involves no concentrating or focusing, no trying to empty the mind,” he said. For more information on the TM technique go to: www.tm.org.au
C i t y L i f e 37 M a g a z i n e
WHAT THE TM CELEBRITY AMBASSADORS HAVE TO SAY: “I am 1000% better when I do it.” Oprah
“Transcendental Meditation gives me an island of calm in the midst of so much turbulence.” Sir Paul McCartney
“Meditation Has Changed My Life. Nothing has ever opened my eyes like Transcendental Meditation has. It makes me calm and happy, and, well, it gives me some peace and quiet in what’s a pretty chaotic life! The activity of being a husband, a father — those are roles, too, but underneath them is the spiritual centre that connects us all, and that’s what’s most important. In meditation, I can let go of everything. I’m not Hugh Jackman. I’m not a dad. I’m not a husband. I’m just dipping into that powerful source that creates everything. I take a little bath in it.” Hugh Jackman
“It’s like a charger for your whole body.” Jerry Seinfeld
“If this kind of result was observed for a new prescription drug, it would be a billion-dollar industry to make it available to everyone immediately.” Dr Norman Rosenthal Renowned psychiatrist & best selling author
“It was the easiest thing I’ve ever learned.” Cameron Diaz
R E A L E S TAT E
CityLife
CityLife REAL ESTATE
RE/MAX REAL ESTATE CAIRNS
Real Estate Demand
RAY & DAVID MURPHY : (07) 40 444 888
: www.remaxcairns.com.au
N
ow is the perfect time to sell your home. There are multiple benefits of selling in the current marketplace. What we are seeing is tens of thousands of people who have relocated from metropolitan areas to regional areas. And a lot of people are realising you can have that corporate job, work remotely and still take advantage of the lifestyle Far North Queensland has to offer - that’s very attractive at the moment. Southerners are currently buying in Cairns due to larger block sizes, Covid has made people realise that they don’t want to live on top of one another. Having space is something that’s drawing them to the Far North region. There’s thousands of people moving here and with the borders opening up, demand will only increase. Despite border restrictions, we have been able to showcase properties to southern buyers with technology these days it is a lot easier. We have floor plans and 3D walk-throughs available. Facetime inspections are
also becoming a regular occurrence. We are finding new ways to showcase our properties to clients no matter their location.
cashed up and ready to go – many don’t even require finance. We’ve never done so many cash contracts since Covid arrived.
We have taken advantage of current technology to ensure we can obtain the best possible price for sellers by showing all buyers through our properties. We have even had a number of southern investors purchasing properties sight unseen.
Our strong message is if you are thinking about selling, now has never been a better time.
We are providing every avenue to make sure they are well informed and educated before they purchase the property. FNQ is performing extremely well in the property sector. This is really great for the Cairns market. Our land isn’t being developed fast enough to keep up with supply and demand.
And now more so than ever, having the right agent, someone who is skilled in negotiating is what will get you the best price.
What we are also seeing is multiple offer situations on properties, so we are able to negotiate with buyers to get a premium price for vendors. This is the best we’ve ever seen the property market in FNQ , it’s like there is an insatiable appetite for FNQ property at the moment. We are also seeing inquiries in the top end of the market increase exponentially. Buyers are
But remember it is very important to select the right agent to suit your individual needs.
Having an agent who really does care and does have your best interests at heart - it’s about getting the best possible price as opposed to just getting a quick sale, especially in a rapidly changing marketplace. The team at RE/MAX have all facets of real estate covered, including commercial, residential and land sales, with knowledgeable, skilled agents ready to assist you in getting the best deal, so please do not hesitate to contact us - we look forward to hearing from you.
WATCH & LISTEN NOW Real Estate Services
TV
RADIO
PODCAST
ONLINE
YOUTUBE
For more info go to www.citylifemedia.com.au
C i t y L i f e 38 M a g a z i n e
CityLife REAL ESTATE
Construction is Underway AT THE PALMS The Palms Collection Directors are excited to announce that construction has commenced on the $300+ Million development site. Major earthworks are underway as the NEW HEART of the Northern Beaches begins to take shape. “IT IS A REALLY EXCITING MAJOR MILESTONE FOR US. TO FINALLY HAVE FGF DEVELOPMENTS ON SITE TO GET THIS REGIONALLY SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT UNDERWAY IS FANTASTIC,” SAID MANAGING DIRECTOR, DARREN HALPIN OF PPNQ DEVELOPMENTS PTY LTD.
Darren Halpin says he has been overwhelmed with the interest to date with Stage 1 of Enclave One almost 80% SOLD OUT “we are now working very fast to get Stage 2 ready for sale to meet the demand in the marketplace. The response has been phenomenal. Majority of the land sales have come from locals too, we haven’t even tapped into the southern market as yet. But the enquiries from down south are coming in thick and fast.” Director Evan Yelavich who is also a Town Planner says the strong sustainable aspects of the development have really appealed to buyers as well as the multi-faceted community on offer.
“We are now the first fully certified FNQ EnviroDevelopment® and we have a strong focus on sustainable living with all aspects of our site and our building covenants. The Palms will bring a real community vibe to the northern beaches with its own private primary school, 30 hectares of open space including walking and cycling trails as well as a Central Park and Amphitheatre and the Waterpark and Tourist Park with restaurants, bars, shops and clubhouse facilities. People are embracing the lifestyle we have on offer. It’s the most exciting development I’ve been involved in. There really will be nothing like this in North Queensland,” said Mr Yelavich. The development will create 200 jobs during construction and 300 ongoing jobs once completed. $34 million will be injected into the local economy each year once all stages of The Palms are complete. “It’s the injection into the economy that the region needs right now. It’s not just a residential estate, it will be the first new largescale tourism product to be built in the region in many many years, attracting 95,000+ new visitors to the region each year to capture the drive tourism and domestic travelling market primarily. This is a development that will have something for everyone, young and old, locals and visitors,” said Mr Halpin.
C i t y L i f e 39 M a g a z i n e
QUICK FACTS: Benefits to the Cairns Region include: • $300+ Million Development in the heart of the Northern Beaches of Cairns • First Certified EnviroDevelopment® in FNQ • 30 hectares of open space for everyone to enjoy • Creation of more than 200 jobs during construction • Creation of more than 300 ongoing sustainable jobs upon completion • $34 million annual economic injection each year upon completion • Wide open spaces for everybody to enjoy – over 30% of site to become public open space • A magnificent waterpark & adventure playground • New Catholic primary school for the Northern Beaches • Village centre with shops, restaurants, bars, etc • Unique network of walking & bike trails for your family and friends to enjoy • A community event space, Central Park and amphitheatre • Attract more than 95,000 new visitors to the FNQ region each year • Includes highway upgrades to improve traffic flow • Environmentally sensitive – vegetated waterways to be retained and enhanced
This spacious, idyllic, private slice of paradise is ideal for a holiday home or year-round residence. Live the Far North Queensland life in luxury. This unique beauty will allow you to make the most of the weather no matter the time of year. The Great Barrier Reef and UNESCO World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest are on your doorstep making it the perfect getaway for family and friends to visit. Don’t delay, properties like this are rare to come by.
The Palm tree lined street frontage and perfectly manicured gardens invite you into a peaceful landscaped courtyard. This flows into the grandiose glass-lined, split-level atrium with an 8 metre high, domed ceiling allowing natural light to fill the space. Wow your guests with an indoor water fountain and a feature window that forms the side of the heated, tiled indoor pool. Light and airy throughout, this home has been built with quality materials both local and imported and designed to maintain privacy. Keep the tasteful, muted colour palette or add your own flair with a splash of colour. The luxurious master bedroom suite is a stand out and features: • A sunken spa bath with floor to ceiling windows and views over the gardens and the ocean • Separate walk in robes • Stunning ensuite with 2 person shower, dual vanity and ample storage • A third-floor mezzanine sitting room
This property is a year-round entertainer’s delight with the following features sure to impress any guest: • Upstairs mosaic tiled indoor heated pool with lifestyle deck facing the ocean, BBQ and spa • Downstairs outdoor resort style heated pool • Elevated poolside gazebo • 10-12 person, remote-controlled sauna • Huge chef ’s kitchen with walkthrough butler’s pantry • Fully equipped professional gymnasium • Soundproofed theatre room completely equipped with professional audio/visual setup • Huge games room with full-sized European imported snooker table and air hockey table • Light and airy formal dining room with mosaic tiled feature floor and seating for up to 18 guests • Large rumpus room • Multiple lounge areas • 4 generous bedrooms each with their own modern ensuite bathroom • Internal elevator
• Separate Guest/Caretakers wing with additional 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, living area and private balcony Other features include: • Fully-ducted Commercial Air Conditioning System • Automatic Backup-generator ready to kick in within 5 seconds of a power outage • Oversized 4 to 6 car lockup garage • Limestone and travertine floors throughout with marble in 2 bedrooms • Internal Laundry room • Ironing room • Four communications rooms • Large office/boardroom • Spacious storage throughout • Secure fencing with keypad entry and video security pad • Recent complete rewiring which now includes state of the art smart home system
Call Daniel Sheehan 0409 265 326 to arrange an inspection.
CityLife FEATURE
Three Compelling Reasons for Stronger Cooperation Across Northern Australia
By D r A llan D ale Prof essor of Tr op ic a l R e g i o n a l D e ve l o pm e nt
The Whitepaper on Developing Northern Australia was released with bipartisan and bilateral support in 2015. Some 51 measures were crafted and implemented, and indeed, much has been achieved. The Whitepaper recognised, however, that developing the north would be at least a 20 year venture of national importance. A new edited book, Leading From the North, explores the many challenges that remain, including issues of lagging investment, workforce and liveability challenges. As one of the book’s editors, I explore the governance challenges facing northern development. I particularly consider that the embryonic success of the whitepaper has relied on strong cooperative governance arrangements between the Commonwealth and the Western Australian, Northern Territory and Queensland governments. These arrangements have flagged in recent years, resulting in a lacklustre refresh of the 5 Year Plan for Northern Australia in early 2021. With a new Minister David Littleproud now taking on the Northern Australian Portfolio, ably supported by Special Envoy Senator Susan McDonald, I am encouraging a stronger return to bilateral cooperation across the north. Indeed, there are three compelling reasons for this to happen: 1. The Need for a Transformational Infrastructure Package: Northern Australia remains under-serviced by critical enabling infrastructure such as roads, rail, ports, water and energy. With now revised criteria for the inclusion of new infrastructure on the Infrastructure Australia Priority list (i.e. incorporating wider social, cultural and other investment drivers), northern and remote Australia has a new opportunity to plan for, invest in, and implement a major program of transformational infrastructure with a focus on our near-northern neighbours. 2. Reforming Development Decision Making: While the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) has been unfairly criticised for slow investment,
little attention has been paid to the way we prioritise, plan, assess and approve development proposals. Developers have communicated their clear frustration with these processes. A recent review of the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act suggests that current regulatory arrangements are not protecting the environment either. Finally, the north’s traditional owners have long been concerned the Act does not frame their relationship with development in ways that protect cultural concerns and enable indigenous economic development. I recommend a clear and evidence-based approach to the progression of the EPBC reforms to support the Commonwealth to deliver economic and indigenous development and to achieve environmental benefits in the north. 3. Implementing the Indigenous Reference Group Accord: With most of the north subject to indigenous rights and interests, under the old Northern Australian Ministerial Forum, a strong indigenous voice was formed through the Indigenous Reference Group (IRG). This group of high profile indigenous leaders worked closely with the Commonwealth and the jurisdictions to create the Northern Australia Indigenous Development Accord; a cohesive package of policy-based initiatives to ensure the north’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities lead their own development efforts. This now needs to be implemented. If our nation is to avoid economic stagnation in the north (with a fragile boom-bust economy, entrenched regional poverty and faltering investment), then a cohesive, longstanding and well implemented approach is needed between the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments. Leading from the North: Rethinking Northern Australia Development. Edited by Ruth Wallace, Sharon Harwood, Rolf Gerritsen, Bruce Prideaux, Tom Brewer, Linda Rosenman, Allan Dale. ANU Press.
C i t y L i f e 42 M a g a z i n e
How to prepare for SUMMER PESTS
Summer is peak pest period, and being prepared is the best way to nip nasties before they become a problem. Whether you’re battling pesky mosquitos or uninvited rodents, here are some expert tips and pestprevention products to help keep your home protected.
you to maintain a safe distance. For best results, spray the nest late in the evening when the wasps are dormant, and always wear protective clothing. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and respray if required. Once any nests are removed, planting mint, citronella, thyme and some eucalyptus can help to keep wasps away from the area, or spray diluted peppermint oil under eaves or other areas where wasps like to make nests. (Wasps are not big fans of mint.) How to get rid of moths They might be small, but moths can do a lot of damage if left unchecked. If you spot bare patches or holes in your woollen carpet or clothes, food packages with small holes or webbing, or if you happen to see one in your home (they prefer dark corners and can be hard to spot), it’s time to get proactive.
How to get rid of mosquitoes With their irritating presence and itchy bites, mosquitoes are unwelcome guests in the home and garden. Flyscreens on doors and windows are effective for keeping them out of the house, but what about the backyard? First, mosquitoes are attracted to stagnant or stale water in the garden, so remove or cover as many water sources as you can.
First, expose the area to light and do a thorough clean: vacuum carpets, wash woollens and wipe down wardrobes and cupboards. Next, hang or place EnviroSafe Domestic Clothes or Pantry Moth Traps in areas where moths are active. These non-scented, pesticidefree traps lure moths with pheromones, and trap them easily.
Second, arm yourself with easy-to-use products that keep mosquitoes away, like Sandalwood Incense Sticks, a natural deterrent that has the added bonus of helping relieve stress. Citronella is another naturally occurring repellent that works by masking the scents insects find attractive. There is a wide range of products to choose from to complement any décor, from pretty Art Deco Citronella Tealight candles, to contemporary looking Cement Table Top Oil Burners, to stylish Wind Resistant Vanilla Scented Citronella Candles. Mosquito coils boosted with citronella also pack a punch. For a different ambiance, try mini bamboo torches with citronella oils, to give your backyard a tropical resort feel while keeping the bugs at bay. Another effective deterrent is to use the force! The Thermacell Insect Repeller Perimeter System uses butane to release a repellent that generates a type of “force field” against insects over a 42-square-metre area. It’s ideal for patios, backyards and decks.
How to get rid of ants These resourceful insects are experts at invading indoor and outdoor spaces in search of food. They usually send out scouts, so if you spot an ant or two, wipe down the area to get rid of ant trails (pheromone markers) that could lead to other ants. Next, caulk up or block any holes, gaps or cracks they’re using to get into the house, make sure your food is well sealed, and follow up by treating the area. Some possible D.I.Y. treatments include spraying with glass cleaner, diluted detergent, or a little peppermint, tea tree or eucalyptus oil mixed with water. If the ants persist, you can step up to products like Gardener’s Friend 500g Ant Killer Dust (an easy-to-apply dust sprinkled around food prep, storage and sleeping areas) or Hovex 2L 3-in-1 Indoor and Outdoor Surface Spray (a barrier or extermination spray that can be used in the home, backyard and garden). Insecticide bombs are also effective in treating ant infestations.
How to get rid of wasp nests Wasps are important pollinators, but no one wants a wasp nest in their backyard. Prevention is the key here, so inspect the eaves and cladding around your home during the spring and summer months and cover up any holes. If you do have a nest and the wasps are being aggressive and causing a nuisance, you may need to remove it. Use a spray like Hovex’s Fast Knockdown Wasp Killer, which delivers a powerful jet spray allowing
How to keep rodents away Rodents such as mice and rats are unwelcome pests around the home. They’re usually seeking food or shelter, so the best way to discourage them is to keep areas clean and store food in sealed containers. However, if you’ve spotted evidence of rodent roommates, it’s time to deploy solutions. Bunnings has a range of rodent control products, including traps. The RATSAK Clean Kill Mouse Trap is an easy-toset-up trap that is safe to use around kids and pets. Thanks to Bunnings Australia and for further advice pop into your local Bunnings store at Cairns or Smithfield.
C i t y L i f e 43 M a g a z i n e
BUSINESS
CityLife
CityLife BUSINESS
ADVANCE CAIRNS
Cyber Convoy Focuses on Key Priorities
NICK TROMPF : (07) 4080 2900
: admin@advancecairns.com E xecu tiv e Chair m a n A d van ce Ca ir ns
W
e at Advance Cairns participated in a 'virtual delegation' to Canberra on November 23 and 24 under the banner 'Cairns TNQ Connecting to Canberra 2021 Cyber Convoy'. The delegation's advocacy centred around a list of priorities that Advance Cairns and other stakeholders have been developing over the past 10 months. The new list of regional advocacy priorities, including eight infrastructure and seven policy priorities, were officially launched on November 10, with Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers among the guests. More than 30 delegates took part in the cyber convoy, with teams working across the following sectors: defence and marine, health, education and research, tourism and aviation, transport and roads, food and water security; and Small and Medium Enterprises. There was a broader representative team including senior officials from Advance Cairns, Tourism Tropical North Queensland, the Cairns Chamber of Commerce and Regional Development Australia Tropical North. This team met with the most senior MPs including the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, Treasurer and Shadow Treasurer. In October 2018, we led the biggest ever delegation to Canberra from this region. The sheer size of our delegation (50 people) was a strong representation for the region and a high impact way of being noticed and heard. We lead a delegation typically once in an electoral cycle. We are about to launch into
the next Federal Election cycle. Because we are unable to take a physical delegation to Canberra due to Covid restrictions, this time we gathered in Cairns, meeting with key MPs as we have done in the past, however via Zoom meetings. We were again adorned in signature orange ties and scarves. The advocacy priorities focused on opportunities such as the marine maintenance precinct and the Cairns University Hospital, two existing priorities which will continue to be elevated at Federal and State levels. Whilst we've had a Federal Government commitment of $60 million for the hospital so far, the State Government is yet to commit major capital works funding required. At a Federal Government level, our centrepiece of the university hospital is going to be support of places for teaching medicine at JCU from years 1-6 in Cairns. (Currently students can only do years 4-6 in Cairns, necessitating them to go to Townsville for the first three years). We are asking the Federal Government for $26 million a year in recurrent funding for extra Commonwealth Supported Places for JCU's medical degree. Given that the building of the facility will start in the next 12 months, it's now really important that the Government steps up and funds these extra places. The marine maintenance precinct is built around continued expansion of HMAS Cairns and facilities for maintenance of Navy and Border Force vessels. A business case funded by the State Government will soon be released outlining growth opportunities and the scale of investment needed at the port to maximise business and jobs growth. Hundreds of millions of dollars will need to be spent over the C i t y L i f e 44 M a g a z i n e
coming decade to upgrade facilities. Two new policies focus on the Cairns Airport and the ship building industry. We will be seeking substantial investment from the Federal Government to rejuvenate the Cairns International Airport. With the ending of international flights due to Covid, the international terminal is desperately in need of substantial upgrades as we look to bring back international tourists. It is critical that we ensure that Cairns Airport is brought up to a new level to ensure the visitor experience and facilities are first class. We will also be advocating for government support to revive the ship building industry in Cairns. Cairns has a long history of ship building. There are opportunities emerging for Cairns to again be a centre for the building of ships and boats. We do have some very exciting opportunities emerging in Cairns and I look forward to seeing them come to fruition.
CityLife BUSINESS
WGC LAWYERS
Have You Signed the Contract?
RHYS LARSEN
: (07) 4046 1126 : cairns@wgc.com.au If you ne ed a ny a ssi st ance cont act one o f our la wye r s at cai r ns@w gc. com . au o r call 07 4 04 6 1111 f or a no- obl i gat i on d iscus sion a nd ex per t l egal advi ce. W GC La wye r s We’ ve Got y ou Cov er ed!
T
he word “contract” is used in a huge variety of industries by an even wider variety of people. While the technicalities of a contract in legal interpretation are extensive, at its core, a contract is an understanding – a promise even – between two or more people/ organisations to do certain things.
illegal things.
1. What is a Contract?
“If a thing is worth doing, it’s worth doing well”. Contracts are no different.
For most, when reference is made to a “contract”, it is a reference to an agreement between two or more parties. To be a legally binding and enforceable, a contract needs to have six (6) key elements: 1.1. An offer and acceptance of that offer. 1.2. Evidence of intention by the parties to be bound by the Contract. 1.3. Consideration which, in plain terms, is a transfer of something from one party to the other in exchange for something else e.g. money for goods or services. 1.4. The parties must have legal capacity to enter into the Contract. 1.5. The parties must consent to the terms of the Contract and not be agreeing to Contract terms because of misrepresentation, duress or undue influence from others. 1.6. The Contract must be of a nature that is not otherwise illegal or purporting to do
If any of these six (6) elements are missing in the contract, then it will not be a legally binding and enforceable contract. 2. Why should I have my contract in writing?
Everyone enters into contracts every day without even realising (or at least without taking them seriously); be it buying a coffee or renewing a Netflix subscription. However in the world at large, contracts are what allow individuals, businesses and even governments to operate. With so much at stake, written contracts are important to: 2.1. Provide certainty of the contract terms and conditions by reducing ambiguity. If an agreed condition is in writing, it is much harder to dispute. 2.2. Grant warranties, impose confidentiality and or exclude liability which, depending on the greater transaction in question, can be absolutely essential for years even after the contract has been completed. 2.3. Set clear directions for dispute resolution with a view to any disputes being resolved sooner (if not immediately) rather than later.
2.4. Afford the contract an opportunity for the contract to continue via severance e.g. if only a small component of the contract is in dispute, this can be “severed” from the contract and dealt with separately while the undisputed component can continue uninterrupted. 2.5. And if the worst should happen and a dispute cannot be resolved, a written contract will be significantly easier to enforce. 3. Does a contract have to be in writing? Absolutely not. Although they are becoming less common, many contractual arrangements use verbal contracts. A “handshake” agreement may still be a contract by having all six (6) required elements. However, if the parties of verbal contracts enter into a dispute, there is the potential for significant uncertainty about each party’s rights and obligations making it difficult for anyone, even a Court, to determine what the original intent of the contract was. 4. Who do I contact about contracts? For advice on contracts, whether it is the purchase of a property or a review of your employment agreements, contact Rhys Larsen and the team at WGC Lawyers on 07 4046 1111 and cairns@wgc.com.au.
WATCH & LISTEN NOW • Divorce and separation
• Binding financial agreements • Children’s matters • De facto relationships TV
RADIO
• Property settlements • Violence in relationships • Wills and estates PODCAST
ONLINE
YOUTUBE
We’ve Got you Covered For more info go to www.citylifemedia.com.au Eddy Lago Accredited family law specialist
Phone: 07 4046 1133 Email: elago@wgc.com.au
C i t y Qld L i f 4870 e 45 123 Sheridan St, Cairns
Magazine
WWW.WGC.COM.AU
CityLife BUSINESS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA
International students and the border dilemma SONJA JOHNSON : (07) 4041 1729
: info@rdatropicalnorth.org.au C h i ef Ex ec utiv e Offic er R eg io na l De ve lopm en t Aust r al i a Tro p ical Nor th (RDA)
T
he recent announcement by the Queensland Government, that international students will return from early 2022, has been met with concern from the education sector, and other sectors which rely heavily on these students to fill jobs. According to the Mitchell Institute, Queensland international student numbers dropped around 50 percent last year. In March 2020, there were 109,771 international students enrolled at Queensland institutions and now there are about 69,500. Recent work by Cummings Economics for Study Cairns indicated that economic value pre-COVID, was approximately $130 million in direct expenditure. A large part of this expenditure is recorded as visitor (tourism) expenditure. By all accounts, recovery from the pandemic will be a challenge. Over the years, the sector has moved from being strongly based on English language to be increasingly based on school, vocational, university and study
tours. JCU has established new student accommodation and local tourism and hospitality businesses, as well as engineering firms and allied health sector, have come to rely on this group to fill rosters throughout the year. Their absence from our region over the past 18 months has left large gaps in our skilled workforce and will impact our region for years to come. From a sector perspective, the Cairns region ranks as a leader in regional Australia. Student Visa enrolments in 2019 show that Cairns ranked second behind Darwin with 2608 students (Darwin 3031). Surveys conducted in 2018 confirmed these Visa figures but indicated that additional international education numbers, not on student visas, totalled around 32,000. Twenty-seven percent were in university enrolment and 23 percent in our secondary schools. Based on these figures and without a pandemic, Cairns would most likely exceed the other regional centres in
C i t y L i f e 46 M a g a z i n e
total international student numbers. However, moves by NSW, Victoria and South Australia indicate that international students will start arriving as early as November 2021. As with all states, Queensland will provide priority to students studying medicine or allied health as once trained, they can support our local health sector. But what of consumer choice? There is a real concern that Queensland will lose out to rival states due to the delay in opening our state’s borders. Students will vote with their feet and take up opportunities that enable them to orientate themselves in a new country and culture and gain employment, prior to commencing studies in February 2022. Indeed, Australia has no doubt lost some of its international student market to the United Kingdom and Canada who opened to students some time ago. We need to ensure our policies are competitive to enable students who wish to come to Queensland, the ability to do so with flexibility.
CityLife BUSINESS
CAIRNS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Businesses Celebrate Excellence
SALLY MLIKOTA : (07) 4031 1838
: info@cairnschamber.com.au P resident Cai rns Cha m be r of Com m er ce
W
e at the Chamber are proud of what businesses in the Cairns region have achieved this year.
The Business Excellence (BEX) awards took place last month, with 11 awards presented and more than 200 businesses nominated. The BEX Awards, brought to you by James Cook University, are the region’s leading honours for business achievement. The outstanding achievements of a wide range of organisations and individuals have been acknowledged since the inception of the BEX awards in 2017. The BEX awards showcase business excellence and acknowledge outstanding business practices and contributions to our community in the Cairns region. To attain recognition, organisations and individuals are assessed across a range of criteria that underpin their commitment to sustaining bottom line results, service excellence and environmental sustainability. The 11 awards showcase business excellence and acknowledge outstanding business practices and contributions to the Cairns region. 2021 WINNERS • Legacy Award - Professor Sandra Harding AO - James Cook University • Emerging Leadership Award (Sponsored by JCU College of Business, Law and Governance) - Kyle Richardson - FNQ Podiatry • People Management Excellence Award
(Sponsored by CBC Staff Selection) Wellness Embodied • Customer Service - Trade & Retail Excellence Award (Sponsored by Totally Workwear) - Duncan Powersports • Customer Service - Delivery of Professional Services Excellence Award (Sponsored by Pemset Solutions) - Sleep Right, Sleep Tight • Marketing and Communications Excellence Award (Sponsored by The Cairns Post) - Bad Fishy Jet Boating • Indigenous Business Excellence Award (Sponsored by Alive Pharmacy) - Murrii Quu Couture • Community Contribution Excellence Award (Sponsored by Maxima) - Cairns Dental Boutique • Sustainability/Environment Excellence Award (Sponsored by Regional Development Australia Tropical North) - Small World Journeys • Business Technology Excellence Award (Sponsored by NBN Local) - Gathar • Innovation Award (Sponsored by Cairns Regional Council) - Gathar More than 300 people celebrated at the gala ball and awards ceremony and there were 70 people on the wait list. It was a challenging year due to Covid, just trying to survive, however I think it is important to reflect on how well we have done throughout the year. Cairns businesses have done some amazing things, we have some emerging leaders at the moment and this was a terrific way to celebrate people who have gone above and
C i t y L i f e 47 M a g a z i n e
beyond. This is the time to stop, take a breath and think about how we can navigate going forward. We can also look at mentoring other people and think about how we can help the community and other businesses. I do believe it is important at the moment to get vaccinated to protect yourself and your family. We need clarity on the mandating of vaccinations for business staff and customers and we also need to ensure that Queensland is not left behind. There has been some misinformation from both State and Federal governments regarding Covid rules — it can be confusing, so clarity is necessary moving forward. With the Federal election coming up, we need the Government to support Cairns and the Far North. We need to think, as a community, what we need from our federal politicians. As Christmas nears, if we jump online to buy presents, we are not helping the local community. There are many local businesses who need our support, so we need to think about where our money is going and buy local. This Christmas, we need to take a break, rejuvenate and look forward to a bigger and better 2022.
CityLife BUSINESS THE POWER OF PR™ WITH DANAE JONES
Objectively Assess, Review and Measure
DANAE JONES
: danae@danaejones.com.au : www.danaejones.com.au
Dan ae Jone s is Managi ng Di r ect or of PR & Ma r ke ting fir m Danae Jones Consul t i ng P ty Ltd
H
ow are you travelling? No I mean really? How are you and your business travelling right now?
There are some businesses absolutely killing it out there right now and doing extraordinarily well. Then there are the rest. The ones currently flapping in the breeze not knowing where to turn with all the COVID upheaval. And many are struggling to know where to spend their marketing dollars to get an immediate return during this roller coaster time in history. I see you. I see the owner behind the counter rolling up their sleeves and doing whatever they can to deliver in these tough times and fill staff shortages. I see the desperation in your faces when people walk through your stores to get that sale. I see the silent devastation in your face when you can’t convince someone to buy from you and they walk out the door. You see the thing is, you’re not alone - but no-one in business likes to talk about just hanging on by a thread. It’s kind of the forbidden topic for some bizarre reason. In tough times, spending your marketing budget wisely is critical as the return you get on your investment is the difference between surviving or dying. So trust me, I get it. So let’s talk frankly about what you need to do. Here are some of my helpful tips to get you through:
1. My first piece of advice is make sure you have a marketing plan. Even if it’s a simple one. You need a plan developed by someone that can look at your business objectively, that isn’t caught up in the daily grind. Fresh eyes and expertise in times like these are worth their weight in gold. 2. Beware of the overnight experts. Believe me, there’s plenty out there. Don’t just engage someone to handle your marketing that’s a good salesperson. Being able to actually deliver on all that talk is essential and you don’t have the time or money to waste on fly by nighters. You want to engage people with a proven track record. So make sure you do your research and reference checks on them first. Talk to the people that they have supposedly “delivered great results” for and hear it from the horses’ mouths first before making your decision. 3. Stop taking advice on your marketing strategy from sales people that work for media outlets or other providers. They are sales people after all, they might be lovely people that genuinely want to help you, but they are not qualified to give you marketing advice. They rarely have degrees, they are not covered by professional indemnity insurance and they are only ever going to give you bias opinions, not solid, objective and unbiased advice. 4. Reviewing and Measuring your marketing
activity results each and every month is essential. If your marketing isn’t achieving results, then you need to make changes. The rule of thumb is, for every $1 spent, you should be receiving three times that in return. This is where a qualified marketing consultant really proves their worth as they aren’t just a one trick pony, they can advise on a multitude of solutions to deliver your results. 5. Consider Public Relations in your marketing mix. PR can have a HUGE positive impact on delivering true bang for your marketing buck. If you don’t have PR as part of your marketing mix, you really are missing out on pure goodness! 6. There are lots of grants available at the moment for businesses that have experienced a drop in revenue and it really does pay to look into what’s available that you might fit the criteria for. 7. Talk to your accountant about what you can afford to spend on your marketing if you are unsure. The reality is that despite money being tight for some, if you stop marketing in these times “because you can’t afford it”, you won’t have a business to come back to. 8. Get creative. Blaze your own trail. Don’t copy the competition. Show people what your point of difference is.
10 X 1 HOUR MARKETING STRATEGY SESSIONS R E A D E R OF F E R
R E AD E R OF FE R
If you really are needing some tailored and quality advice on 10to Xdo1inHOUR MARKETING STRATEGY SESSIONS 1 what your business, I am offering 10 x complimentary If you really are needing some tailored andtoquality on what to do hour marketing strategy sessions helpadvice get your 2022 offinto a your business, I am offering x complimentary 1 hour marketing flying start. Get in 10 quick as we are only offering thestrategy 10 spots sessions to help get your 2022 off to a flying start. Get in quick as we are exclusively to CityLife readers and we expect them to get only offering the 10 spots exclusively to CityLife readers and we expect snapped up fast. To book, reach out to Alicia in my team on: them to get snapped up fast. To book, reach out to Alicia in my team on: admin@danaejones.com.au admin@danaejones.com.au
T&Cs: Marketing Marketing Strategy Strategy Sessions Sessions are are valued valued at at $275 $275 each. each. T&Cs: They are are objective objective and and obligation obligation free free -- all all will will be be offered offered via via video video link link and and must must be be used used by by the the end end of of February February 2022. 2022. They
C i t y L i f e 49 M a g a z i n e
Warren ENTSCH MP Federal Member for Leichhardt
200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt QLD 4870 07 4051 2220
warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au
warrenentsch.com.au
WarrenEntschMP
Authorised by W. Entsch, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt QLD 4870.
CityLife BUSINESS
Giving the GIFT OF TRAVEL WARREN ENTSCH MP
Giving a tourism experience as a Christmas present this year is a unique gift that supports jobs and businesses in the Cairns and Far North Queensland tourism sector. The Morrison Government has launched an $8 million marketing campaign to inspire Australians to buy travelrelated Christmas presents this year. Cairns and Far North Queensland tourism businesses have been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and state-enforced border closures and they need all the support they can get from the local community. Australians are getting vaccinated in record numbers which means our country is reopening to travel, as set out in the National Plan. After a year of restrictions caused by COVID-19, now is the perfect time to give the gift of travel to a loved one this Christmas. Why not buy a family member or loved one a trip to the Reef, or head to Kuranda for the day on Skyrail or take a drive to Port Douglas and check out Wildlife Habitat? Every dollar spent at a local tourist operator supports jobs and businesses in our community. The Gift of Travel campaign is the latest instalment of Tourism Australia’s Holiday Here This Year campaign featuring Hamish Blake and Zoe Foster-Blake.
LOOKING TO EXPAND, DIVERSIFY OR GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Cairns and Far North Queensland businesses looking to expand, diversify or grow a new industry in Northern Australia can now apply for a share of $111.9 million worth of grants under the Northern Australia Development Program. Grants of between $50,000 and $2 million will be available for small to medium enterprises to grow their business through new activities. Larger businesses can access grants of between $3 million and $10m to establish a new industry or significantly grow the value of an existing industry and contribute to transformational change in a region. The first assessment round closes on December 10, 2021 with successful grants to be awarded from February, 2022. The program will provide a welcome boost for Cairns and Far North Queensland businesses. This grant is a great opportunity for established businesses supporting them to grow and diversify whilst also encouraging exciting investment and new industry into our thriving region. Further information, including eligibility guidelines, is available at: www.business.gov.au/news/scale-up-and-diversify-your-business-innorthern-australia or by calling the Business Grants Hub at 13 28 46.
C i t y L i f e 51 M a g a z i n e
CityLife BUSINESS
ENTERPRISE NORTH
The Far Northern Utopia?
KEVIN BYRNE : 0447 280 923
: exec@enterprisenorth.org.au E xecu t iv e Offic er E n terp r ise Nor th
V
ery often our expectations and optimism levels consistently outstrip reality. We are wedded to the next big announcement as election cycles roll around, but in reality we are victims of shambolic outdated planning processes that leave us struggling to attract appropriately planned economic and social growth infrastructure. Much of it is hit and miss and those who are connected normally get the chocolates. The economic challenges which will present with the welcome government and business responses to climate change present great regional opportunities if we get our act together early. Already the private sector are backing in the opportunities and we need to give them investment certainty around a decent regional plan. As C19 has demonstrated with health, responsibilities for this start with the State Government. At the end of the day the buck stops there. One estimate has us currently $1B behind other comparable regions in the state with infrastructure rollout. As it stands there is currently no effective plan, so there is no accountability, no coordination and no evaluation. This issue is critical as the focus increasingly and shamefully is all on the South East corner
of the state as we listen to a cacophony of voices extolling the opportunities with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. Our voices are few and isolated but need to get louder and more robust. Where for example is our long promised aviation export hub and along with it the plan for greater transport access to the Atherton Tablelands and Cape York? The recent Kuranda bridge fiasco spelt that out. And whilst we are at it, how are we travelling with the Cairns Port Strategic Plan and how does that fit with the larger regional plan? Where are the plans to get trucks off the Bruce Highway and freight on to rail and where will the Cairns logistics hub be located supporting the future predicted growth of our marine precinct supporting our navy? Where is the 10-year funded connectivity plan linking remote communities to mainstream opportunities? We were the only city in the state bypassed by the NRL this year as our facilities were inadequate. Where is our suitable stadium? Make no mistake, planning is an integrated process involving a strategic mindset starting with an understanding of our physical and geographic assets and the gaps, our human capacity and where an agreed vision needs to take us. It
C i t y L i f e 52 M a g a z i n e
involves direction, leadership, cooperation and accountability. Exaggerated slogans of appeasement such as a Global Tourism Hub or the Green Capital of Australia won’t cut it and usually end in embarrassment. What will cut it is for us to coalesce around the table and agree collectively to a robust flexible and viable plan that has agreed funding parameters. The bill is large as the backlog is long. Think our ailing hospital capacity and the health challenges across our remote communities for starters and then if you are in the burbs and in the mood and want to see where all the money was recently spent upgrading our Esplanade take a drive in and chance your arm at a parking spot. Our regional community has effectively endured a two year period of directed isolation. Whilst parts of Australia were shut down, we were locked out. Our tourism industry has been decimated and will need support to recover. Many have escaped scrutiny and inaction conveniently blamed on Covid. That is behind us and hopefully never to return, so now it’s time to rediscover our international identity and mojo and reclaim our place in the sun with purpose.
CityLife BUSINESS
TTNQ
Countdown on for border reopening
MARK OLSEN
: (07) 4015 1201 : ceo@ttnq.org.au
C h i ef E x e c u tiv e Of f i cer To u r is m Tro p ic a l N o r t h Q u een sl an d ( T T NQ)
T
he countdown is on for the reopening of Queensland’s borders on December 17 which the Tropical North Queensland tourism industry hopes will restart the region’s $3.5 billion visitor economy. With visitors needing to be double vaccinated, and have a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within 72 hours of travel, there are hurdles that will slow the rate of growth. However, knowing that the borders will remain open to fully vaccinated travellers will give confidence to consumers and a compelling reason for the community to be vaccinated. Our region’s recovery, and the thousands of jobs hanging in the balance, are in the hands of our community – so please get vaccinated. It is vital that at least 80 per cent of the eligible people in Tropical North Queensland are fully vaccinated or we risk our community being placed in lockdown. Going into lockdown while the rest of Australia is open will delay the
destination’s recovery by months, putting us behind the rest of the country and the world, therefore impacting thousands of jobs in our community. Businesses and individuals should also be aware that the Federal Government will no longer provide financial assistance once the state reaches 80 percent. With travel resuming, summer presents an opportunity for our region’s operators to pick up some much needed business after the disappointing loss of our key markets during what should have been a busy winter season. Extensive summer marketing is under way to lure southern visitors to Tropical North Queensland during what is traditionally our busy season for international arrivals. TTNQ’s Summer Great campaign launched in October to boost visitor numbers. TTNQ’s first summer campaign, ‘Summer Great. Leave Greater’, which was launched last year, generated more than $20 million in retail sales over five months.
C i t y L i f e 53 M a g a z i n e
This year’s campaign will continue to grow awareness and consideration for summer in the tropics within the domestic market with activity including TV/Video on Demand, YouTube, editorial, digital, social, influencer and media educationals. In the leadup to summer, TTNQ has undertaken public relations activity and invested in television programming that showcases our destination. This includes episodes of Real Housewives of Melbourne on Fox Arena in October and November and Nine’s My Way in November after both productions spent time shooting in region. The 56-page magazine Cairns Unearthed featured in The Weekend Australian at the end of last month and media coverage resulting from hosting travel writers in the region is also rolling out across various media platforms and mastheads. The Tropical North Queensland tourism industry and our regional economy needs a successful summer. We can all help by getting vaccinated.
FOOD
CityLife
CityLife FOOD
WITH
CHRISO THE PERSONAL CHEF THANKS TO
PICCONES
with fresh mango, lime & mint salsa
INGREDIENTS
• 1kg x Local Tiger Prawns • 2 x Chilled Mango Cheeks • 1 x Lime zest and juice • Fresh mint (approx 2 tablespoons) METHOD: 1. Scoop the mango cheeks into the blender along with half a lime of grated zest and squeeze the lime juice into the blender. 2. Also add approximately two tablespoons of fresh lime and place this into the blender. Turn the blender on and blitz all the ingredients in together. 3. On your serving plate gently pour and place the mixture all across dish. 4. Then peel your fresh prawns leaving the tails on. Simply make a break with your hands along the prawns to butterfly but not to the entire end. You then pull the prawn tail through and inside out. Line the prawns along the serving plate and complement with a couple of lime wedges and little slice of mango and mint. Enjoy!
WATCH & LISTEN NOW TV
RADIO
PODCAST
ONLINE
YOUTUBE
For more info go to www.citylifemedia.com.au
C i t y L i f e 54 M a g a z i n e
Need space for a
FUNCTION
or PARTY?
Call us to book
TRADITIONAL GREEK CUISINE ON THE ESPLANADE OVERLOOKING THE CORAL SEA
For bookings or enquiries please phone : 4031 3033 LEVEL 1 CORNER APLIN ST & ESPLANADE CAIRNS (ABOVE VILLA ROMANA) DINNER EVERY NIGHT FROM 5PM
Family owned since 1999 V IL L A R O M A N A - F OR A S L I C E O F ITA LY O N T H E E S P L A N A D E Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner PHONE 4051 9000
Cnr Esplanade & Aplin Street, Cairns
Open from 6:30am daily FOLLOW US:
C i t y L i f e 55 M a g a z i n e
villaromanacns
villa romana cairns
1
#
COFFEE
DESTINATION ON THE NORTHERN BEACHES AS VOTED BY CAIRNS POST READERS
SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND COFFEE DAILY.
Great view, even greater coffee!
espressoandco.com.au EQ
40553021 | 115-117 Williams Esplanade Palm Cove Shopping Village | Open daily from 6am - 2pm
Cairns Mental Health Hub Officially Opens
CityLife FEATURE
Cairns now has its very own dedicated Mental Health Hub thanks to regional Queensland’s largest mental wellbeing organisation, selectability. The facility officially opened on World Suicide Prevention Day, with local medical professionals, business leaders, politicians, carers and consumers in attendance to mark the occasion. Residents across the region can now access a range of vital mental wellbeing services at the selectability Cairns Mental Health Hub which provides a range of NDIS and government funded services to improve the mental wellbeing of individuals and contribute to suicide prevention. selectability CEO, Debra Burden said they had been operating across the region for over forty years at various locations, but the time had come to create a facility that had room for expansion of services and a more prominent presence. “It is fitting that we officially open the Cairns Mental Health Hub on World Suicide Prevention Day with the suicide rate continuing to rise across regional Queensland,” said Ms Burden. “The move is part of selectability’s commitment to improving the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders and contributing to suicide prevention. “Opening a Mental Health Hub in Cairns has been an important step for us. The site being centrally located on a main highway so people can find us easily was also important to us. “The Cairns community has been telling us for some time that they would like to access more of our services, and we’re responding. We pride ourselves on providing services that are flexible and tailored to the needs of the people and communities we support.” selectability Cairns General Manager, Ingrid Westthorp said “The programs on offer at the Hub included dedicated counselling services, psychological support for both adults and children, NDIS support coordinators, clinical assessors and they held regular community-based events to encourage connection and social support for all clients. “Our new facility is a place where no-one feels alone. We want the people of Cairns to know that even if they’ve never used our services before, we encourage them to pop in if they feel like they are struggling in any way as we are here to support them. “Everyone is welcome and we offer support at every level and we have great referral partners that we work with every day,” said Ms Westthorp. Speaker of the Queensland Parliament and Member for Mulgrave, Curtis Pitt and Chair, Tom Ryan, a long time selectability Board Member did the honours of unveiling the plaque at the official opening. Curtis Pitt MP welcomed the opening of the Mental Health Hub and commented on selectability’s commitment to improving the mental wellbeing of the Cairns and greater FNQ community. “Mental health support is something we need to be responding to as suicide rates climb in our community, especially during this global pandemic that we are all in the midst of experiencing. It is essential that we discuss mental health just as we discuss any illness and remove the stigma. If we have a headache, we don’t hesitate to tell someone. We need people to feel willing to pop into their local GP or places like the Cairns Mental Health Hub and explain how they're feeling so the appropriate care and support can be given to them to get them through to the other side. As Queensland’s first ever stand-alone Minister for Mental Health, I commend the great work that the selectability team continue to deliver across Queensland,” said Mr Pitt. The Mental Health Hub is located at 606 Bruce Highway, Woree, directly opposite the Cannon Park Racecourse.
C i t y L i f e 57 M a g a z i n e
Experience the world’s oldest rainforest...
Discover the Daintree with the ONLY Advanced ECO Certified operator on the river. Enter the code WILD20 at the checkout for 20% off your booking!
daintreerivercruisecentre.com.au
C i t y L i f e 58 M a g a z i n e
Staycation By S t acey C arrick
I
n Far North Queensland, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to an array of idyllic locations to visit.
IT’S TIME NOW, MO RE
THAN EVER, TO ENJ OY A ‘STAYCATION’ IN YOUR OWN BACK YARD.
It’s time to take advantage of the crystal clear water, the warm sunshine, the tropical rainforest and the stunning waterfalls. Indulge in your own piece of paradise, right here in FNQ. A number of hotels and resorts are offering special deals to encourage locals to enjoy a holiday close to home. Whether it’s for a few days or a week, forget about cooking, housework or renovations, and indulge in a luxurious room at a nearby resort. Wouldn’t you love to be relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand, perhaps followed by a relaxing massage at the resort?
and within easy reach of Cape Tribulation, where the reef meets the rainforest. Our local hotels and resorts need our support, as well as tourism operators, restaurants and cafes. So please take advantage of our idyllic locations and our proximity to the reef and rainforest this festive season. Isn’t it about time you enjoyed a day on the reef with your family? Reef boat operators are also offering fantastic deals for locals. Don’t forget to support restaurants and cafes while you enjoy your staycation. Indulge in a night out at a nearby restaurant and enjoy the region’s local produce, including freshly caught seafood. A day trip to the Tablelands will allow you to enjoy locally produced fruits, cheese, chocolate, wine, coffee and nuts. It’s time to enjoy a staycation, because you deserve it! Contact one of the accommodation providers or tourism operators showcased in our feature today!
Then enjoy a fabulous dinner at a nearby restaurant or simply order room service. We are incredibly lucky to be situated in close proximity to beautiful beaches including Palm Cove, a short drive to Port Douglas, one of the most picturesque drives in the country;
C i t y L i f e 59 M a g a z i n e
CityLife SOCIALS
CAIRNS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Christmas Lunch
C i t y L i f e 60 M a g a z i n e
DON’T JUST STAY. INDULGE
The Boutique Collection boasts an eclectic collection of hand-picked boutique accommodation offering resort style rooms, luxury apartments and private homes. Locations: Cairns, Trinity Beach, Palm Cove & Port Douglas To book: www.theboutiquecollection.com.au or ph: 1800 887 274
PORT DOUGLAS
CAIRNS
PALM COVE
DAINTREE
TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND
Luxury holiday accommodation In House Catering
Weddings
Book Direct
FREECALL 1800 631 566 www.executiveretreats.com.au
CityLife SOCIALS
BUSINESS LIAISON ASSOCIATION
Annual Christmas Cocktails
Education & Industry Pathways & Opportunities
Working Together! E Q M www. bl a. org. au C i t y L i f e 63 M a g a z i n e
FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y CityLife
Top tips for glowing skin this Christmas EVERYONE WANTS CLEAR AND GLOWING SKIN ALL YEAR ROUND, BUT FOR THE CHRISTMAS SEASON, WE ALL WANT TO TURN UP THE GLOW-FACTOR. A diary full of pre-Christmas parties means that many of us have resigned ourselves to a month of not enough sleep, too much alcohol and all the wrong foods. This can play havoc on our skin, with breakouts, and dull and dehydrated skin often making us appear older than we really are. The good news is there are plenty of skin treatments that can help skin look fresh and radiant. The team at Artisan Aesthetic Clinics (formerly Face Today Mediclinic) have seen a surge in bookings as Cairns residents turn up the glow-factor this Christmas. Here they share their top three treatments:
Slow Facelift The clinic’s Slow Facelift is a treatment that provides long lasting results, rather than a quick-fix. This is because their results build over time as your skin starts to restore lost collagen, giving you a natural-looking progression of improvements without any major changes overnight. It’s a slow build, but when you see your before and after photos, the results are impressive. A full treatment of three sessions over a few months, can last up to two years. Pricing varies. Artisan Aesthetic Clinics helps clients look and feel their confident best, offering cosmetic injectables and biostimulator treatments as well as an extensive range of laser and light-based treatments, body contouring and cosmeceutical skincare therapies. The recently refurbished clinic also has an expanded team with more cosmetic nurses and dermal therapists joining to keep up with the growing demand from clients.
HydraFacial Clients looking for that instant glow are booking HydraFacial! It’s the perfect pre-Christmas advanced facial to see instant results and improve the health and hydration of the skin. HydraFacial’s patent Vortex technology deeply cleanses the skin, exfoliates and extracts impurities, while adding nutrients like antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. In just 30 minutes, HydraFacial is ideal for both instant and long lasting results this Christmas! From $205.
It only takes a glance at the testimonials to see the team has amassed an incredible community of regulars who all began their skin journey the same way – with an indepth consultation and tailored treatment plan. From the moment you step into the beautiful clinic, you’ll be warmly welcomed before sitting down to discuss your skin history and goals. From there, a highly-skilled clinician will build a treatment plan using a combination of treatments and work to achieve your desired results.
Antiwrinkle treatment Say goodbye to wrinkles and look confident and refreshed for Christmas photos! Antiwrinkle injections are a common anti-ageing treatment to smooth wrinkles and unwanted lines, giving a more youthful appearance. Most clients notice some improvement after a few days, however it can take up to two weeks for the muscles around your wrinkles to fully relax and for you to start to reap the full rewards. Book ahead for this treatment. Two areas from $345 (approx).
Master the Artistry of You™.
CityLife readers can enjoy $75 off their first treatment (new clients only). Look and feel your confident best this Christmas! Start your skincare journey today by booking a consultation with one of our experts.
C i t y L i f e 64 M a g a z i n e
DATTA
awards
Wow do we have some talented students living in FNQ! More than 100 students were successful at the Business Liaison Association’s DATTA Awards Presentation Night in October. Prizes consist of bursaries, cash prizes, tool kits and training courses valued at more than $16,000. Held annually (except for 2020 due to Covid restrictions), the awards are aimed at Design and Technology high school students who are excelling in everything woodwork, metalwork and design. This presentation night is organised in conjunction with the Design and Technologies Teachers’ Association of Australia. The work produced by the region’s students is displayed for the public to enjoy at Event Cinemas Cairns Central for the week prior to the presentation night. Brilliant and innovative pieces that the students have worked on throughout the year as part of their curriculum are entered in the awards and all participating students are to be congratulated on the level of excellence shown. 2021 saw these awards receive entries of robotic arms, pieces of furniture, race cars and floating tables as well as kitchen and house designs. Schools competed against each other on a larger scale construction project,
C i t y L i f e 65 M a g a z i n e
producing items like decking and staging and even a spray booth. The standard of entries and portfolios submitted this year was nothing short of outstanding. A huge congratulations to all students who entered, they should be very proud of their achievements as they continue to work hard towards their dreams. Sponsors of the awards include businesses from the region’s manufacturing, design, mechanical, furnishing, building, architecture and engineering industries. Representatives from each industry and local coordinating teachers form the judging panel for each award. Some of our sponsors have supported these awards from their inception and are an integral part of the awards’ success. 2022 will see the 20th Annual DATTA Awards for the Business Liaison Association and we hope to continue to grow these awards throughout the region. Recognising the potential of our local students is a passion of the BLA, the DATTA teachers and our amazing family of sponsors. For more information on how to be a part of the 20th Annual DATTA Awards please contact us at admin@ bla.org.au
CityLife SOCIALS
BUSINESS LIAISON ASSOCIATION
2021 DATTA Awards
Education & Industry Pathways & Opportunities
Working Together! E Q M www. bl a. org. au C i t y L i f e 66 M a g a z i n e
e v i t s e F shion
Co llette
S wa ro vski
Fa
ve i t s e f r you t c e f al r r e t P n e C ns r i a C t style a
S waro v sk i
Co l l e tt e
S wa ro vski Myer Ca irns
Mim c o
Fa s hio n: Cair ns Central
Fo re v e r N e w
M i mc o
Mimco
Sw a rov s k i
S w a rov s k i
B l ac k I v y Boutique
Fash i o n : Cai r n s Ce n t ral
B l ac k I v y Boutique
Col l ett e
Co l l e tt e
M i mc o
B l ac k I v y Boutique
Fash i o n : Cai r n s Ce n t ral
t your festive style at Cairns Central c e f r e P
Mimco
Sw a rov s k i
Sw a rov s k i
Th e Ey e Bou t i qu e
B l ac k I v y Boutique
A l l f a s h i o n av ai l ab l e at Cai r n s Ce n t ral .
Fash i o n : Cai r n s Ce n t ral
STYLING
#GETREADYWITH_TOKUNAI
WEEKLY BLOW-DRYS OR AN EVENT COMING UP WE HAVE YOU COVERED.
www.tokunaihair.com
Now you can have even more
READ, WATCH & LISTEN whe
of Cairns’ favourite magazine
enever and wherever suits you. New episodes
G
LIVE
EACH WEEK.
www.citylifemedia.com.au
W ood ed Pa rkl a
Centra Park Village K
E
W
A
R
R
A
B
E
A
C
H
School
the beaches most liveable community
W ood ed Pa rkl and s
No other residential estate in Far North Queensland can boast the lifestyle that will be on offer at The Palms in Kewarra Beach. From the 30 hectares of open space and parklands that will envelop each boutique housing enclave, the five kilometres of Woothe development, to the vibrant village hub cycling and walking tracks dotted across ded Par klanew with all its conveniences - it’s set to become the nds heart of the northern beaches.
Central Park Village School
BE QUICK
HOMESITES ARE LIMITED REGISTER NOW
a master planned estate with no equal
The first certified EnviroDevelopment® project in Far North Queensland
thepalmsresidential.com.au Ben Johnston 0416 056 357