CairnsLife Magazine May 2017

O U R L O C A L M AG A Z I N E

M A Y 2 01 7

W A L K A M I N ,

A U S T R A L I A

O U R L O C A L M AG A Z I N E

WELCOME TO OUR MAY ISSUE! This month we celebrate inspirational business women across a variety of sectors in our community leading with our cover story on Lisa Stansfield, Lawyer. You’ll discover what drives them and be inspired by their energy and commitment. We look ahead to the Masters Games later in May and showcase what’s happening and where to be around the region during this beautiful Autumn month! As usual, we cover trends in fashion and beauty and this month introduce you to successful businesses on Spence Street.

Get the latest from our experts in BusinessLife and MedicalLife.

MAY 2017

C OV E R P HO T O B Y M IC K F U H R I M A N N

In our May HomeLife flip we continue the theme of inspirational women paving the way in building and property lead in style by Heather Ghidella from MyStyle Homes. We take a look at home and garden trends and get a few handy hints on D.I.Y. projects.

Be sure to connect with us on social media and keep up to date with life in Cairns! To all the mums, Happy Mother’s Day! Hope you are thoroughly spoilt and relax!!!

Happy May to everyone!

Jodie Ferrero

PRODUCTION MANAGER

CairnsLife is published by CairnsLife Pty Ltd. Publishers: Jacqui Nolan and Lance Collyer. CairnsLife Advertising & Editorial Team: David Leith, Eamonn Sheehan, Jodie Ferrero, Silvia Mogorovich, Janie Barton, Suzy Grinter, Kimberley Vlasic, Bridey Zell, Sheree Scott, Jesse Short. CairnsLife Photography Team: Mick Fuhrimann, Peppermint Lane, Photoholic Studio, Minori Ueda. CairnsLife Graphic Design: Ruth Mendoza CairnsLife Accounts: Mary Mitchell

4036 0205

www.cairnslifemag.com.au

@cairnslife

/CairnsLifeMagazine

Connect on

Social Media

Tag us in your posts with @CairnsLifeMagazine

Follow us @CairnsLifeMagazine and @BuyLocalCairnsLife Hashtag posts #cairnslifemag #buylocalcairnslife

CairnsLife 4 Magazine

Jacqui NOLAN

Publisher

How old are your children and their names?

15 months Hugh and Quin Best part about Motherhood?

Too many to mention. However I just love picking the boys up from daycare and getting the biggest smiles and cuddles.

What was your reaction when you found out you were having twins?

I will never forget my second scan when the nurse said “do you know you’re having multiples!”. I looked strangely and said ‘what’s that?’ I had absolutely no idea. As you can imagine I was in total shock in won’t repeat what followed.

CairnsLife 6 Magazine

What is it like been a mother of twins?

I am constantly told double the trouble. Yes I agree but it is also double the love, and double the cuddles.

Everyday is full on but fun. I don’t know any better as they are my only babies.

What will your Mother’s day consist of ?

Running around crazy after the treasures, changing nappies mostly and hopefully fit in a nice lunch at one of Cairns many fab restaurants.

Best advice your Mother has given you?

To treat everyone the same, always wear knickers and be in a state of grace…lol she will kill me for saying that.

TWINS TWICE AT CAIRNSLIFE

Lance & Jolene COLLYER

Publisher

How old are your children and their names?

Milo Jasper 10 Archie Alexander 9 Jasper Riley 6 Rosie Winter 3 Frankie Joy 3 Best part about Motherhood?

Seeing them genuinely love and care for each other, even if they’ve been fighting. They’ll drop everything to help or keep each other safe.

What was your reaction when you found out you were having twins?

We got a scan fairly late at about 14 weeks. I was pretty massive already but it didn’t tweak until we saw two sacs show up on the screen. The lady thought we already knew but it was a surprise to us! And I kind of entered delirium both laughing and then crying and laughing again, peppered with lots of expletives. It was hilarious.

What is it like been a mother of twins?

I carried them in utero up until 38+3 weeks and I breastfed them up to 30 months. We co-slept for the first few years. It was all pretty exhausting but I felt so proud of myself for not only enduring, but thriving. Witnessing the epic cuteness of them together kills me. They make the ordinary come alive. And they’re the best little buddies.

The only time I find it hard is when they both whine or have a meltdown but even that’s really nothing compared to pre-teen angst from the eldest. They’re a breeze and completely delightful.

What will your Mother’s day consist of ?

The best Mother’s Day would be one where I’m sleeping in and it’s quiet. Lance- you’re taking them out for the morning.

Best advice your Mother has given you?

Routine. Ugh. I hate that word. We are like oil and water. But having things stocked and prepped really help the flow of the day.

“everything you need for Mother’s Day”

(07) 40521 868 21/223 Hartley Street, Portsmith Qld 4870 cairnsfloralsupplies.com.au CairnsLife 7 Magazine

“WHAT FEMALE LEADER IN COMMERCE OR PUBLIC SERVICE DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?”

ROB PYNE CAIRNS MP

I admire Jodie Duignan-George, Associate Vice-Chancellor for the Cairns and Far North Queensland region. She has done a fantastic job getting Central Queensland University (CQU) Cairns campus up and running, bringing us closer to being a university city, contributing to our economic development and skilling our young people for the job market.

SAM MARINO

LNP CANDIDATE FOR CAIRNS

Deirdre Forde AM, former Cairns City councillor and active community worker, is a female leader I most admire.

There have been many women who have had a positive influence on me and my life. They have come from all walks of life and political persuasions, including family and friends, women I have worked for, worked with and who have worked for me. But Deirdre stands out. What I admire most is her love of family, her determination, strength, honesty, loyalty and her love for community.

She is a woman that has given tirelessly to Cairns and other communities for more than a generation, and she shows no sign of stepping back or slowing down.

When I think of all the organisations she has been and is involved with and the community work she engages in, it energises me to do more.

Our community is richer because of the influence Deirdre has on it, and she is certainly a stand-out role model for me and other men and women.

TRENT TWOMEY

CHAIRMAN, ADVANCE CAIRNS

“People are often bewitched by our natural beauty that they often forget we are more than just a great place to visit.” These words were first said to me at an Advance Cairns board meeting by Sharon Dawson, Managing Director of one of Queensland’s largest privately owned industrial service operations, The Dawson Group of Companies, which was established in 1987 and employs over 8,500 staff. It provides a complete industrial service to clients in mining, marine, power, sugar, defence, government and process industries and stands as testament to the diversity of the Cairns economy. When Sharon talks, people listen. Not only is she one of the region’s largest private employers, she gives back to the community through a variety of roles including being the Deputy Chairman Ports North, Deputy Chairman Racing Queensland and member of the Membership Committee Advance Cairns.

CairnsLife 8 Magazine

The 2016 Plate Sales Event.

Only at Audi Centre Cairns.

Audi Centre Cairns

For a limited time only, exclusively at Audi Centre Cairns you could enjoy:

1.9%

Comparison Rate Finance* with 3 years / 45,000km complimentary servicing^ on 12 selected new and demonstrator Audi models.

Call us on 07 4046 6322 to arrange a test drive now.

Audi Centre Cairns | 303-309 Mulgrave Road, Cairns | Tel. 07 4046 6322 | audicentrecairns.com.au Jeff Harrop | Mob: 0412 688 562 | jeffh@audicentrecairns.com.au *1.9% p.a. comparison rate available to approved personal applicants of Audi Financial Services (AFS) for the financing of 12 selected new and demonstrator models from the Audi Centre Cairns. Balloon restrictions apply. Comparison rate based on a 5 year secured consumer fixed rate loan of $30,000. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. ^Offer includes complimentary scheduled servicing for 3 years at Audi Centre Cairns, at intervals of 12 months or 15,000kms, 24 months or 30,000kms, and 36 months or 45,000kms from initial date of warranty registration. Excludes wear and tear items and any additional work or components required. Vehicles must be sold between 01/05/17 and 29/05/17, and delivered by 05/06/2017. While stocks last. Not available with other offers and fleet, government, rental buyers, hire car and chauffeur companies are excluded. Full conditions are available on application. AFS# reserves the right to extend or change this offer. #AFS is a trading name of Volkswagen Financial Services Australia Pty Limited ABN 20 097 071 460, Australian Credit Licence 389344. DL1705281.

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

presents

Inspirational

Women

IN BUSINESS 2017 LISA STANSFIELD JANETTE BURBERRY NYREE BANKS KATE GUNN MELISSA DUNNE KATHY MARTIN CAROL SHIPWAY ANNALISA SIEFKEN

PHOEBE KITTO & REBECCA BOTTOMER SUE FITCHER ANGELA FREEMAN JANINE NOOPETCH KRISTA WATKINS CASSANDRA LARKIN HELEN WILKES JOANN PYNE EVA GRABNER COURTNEY PITCHER ASHLEE PIPER JUDY EVANS ELAINE BERTONCINI

82 Grafton St, Cairns 4031 4999 sassi.shoes C a i r n s L i f e 11 M a g a z i n e

NARDINE COLLIER KAREN STABILE FRANCA FORDE CHRISTINE VINCENT

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

CairnsLife 12 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business WORDS BU SUZY G RI NTER | PHO TO BY M I CK F U H R I M A N N

If success is measured by client satisfaction, then Lisa Stansfield family lawyer has a five-star rating.

Lisa launched her law firm just over one year ago and her family law and wills and succession practice has defied gravity and soared. Outstanding service, not just attractive pricing has been key in achieving this.

“I offer my clients a service that I would expect myself from a firstclass lawyer,” says Lisa.

It’s not just that her family law clients are satisfied with her legal ability, they realise that Lisa really cares for them.

“The day I stop caring is the day that I quit Law” she says.

I find that unsurprising. There’s nothing not to like about Lisa Stansfield, and when you’re doing the hard yards in a marital breakup or a custody battle, quite aside from trusting your lawyer, it really helps to like them.

Lisa stresses that being professional does not mean being stiff lipped, matter of fact and thus somewhat daunting for an already stressed client.

“In my practice, it means being knowledgeable and proficient, but also warm, approachable and totally focused on my client’s problem, and not wandering off into extraneous issues, looking for add-on opportunities, or trying to be clever”.

A confidence-inspiring cocktail of life experience, perceptiveness, profound knowledge of the law, and the vital objectivity needed in handling the emotive nature of family law and estate issues, is greatly enhanced by a healthy

“

Changing your career changes your life – I was reinvented. I love what I do, and I believe this is reflected in my service to my clients.

”

dash of humour and warmth, guaranteed to bring a client coming back for more should they need it.

“The answers I give may not be what you want to hear, but they will be honest, objective and well informed answers, so you understand the reality of your situation and know exactly where you stand.

“My philosophy is to be someone who brings reason and of course, the principles of law to solve my client’s disputes. Being emotional is only natural in their situation, but as I sometimes have to remind clients, emotions or theatrics have no place in a court room, no matter what the glamorous television drama series might depict,” says Lisa.

Lisa thrives on the challenge of making bad family situations or deceased estate matters better, working with the client to match them with resources such as mediation, counselling and psychological help if needed.

Lisa can be contacted at Lisa Stansfield Lawyers Located at Suite 9, The Conservatory, 12 -14 Lake Street, Cairns.

Lisa also makes regular visits to the Tablelands where she has office space in Byrnes Street, Mareeba.

Telephone Lisa on (07) 4041 6506 or 0438 590 130 or email her: lisa@stansfieldlaw.com.au www. stansfieldlaw.com.au You can also follow Lisa Stansfield Lawyers on Facebook

CairnsLife 13 Magazine

“Many of my clients are going to have an ongoing relationship with their ex and their children, or with family members in succession cases, beyond the lawsuit. They deserve to have us craft a way forward for the future.

In family and estate matters, it’s relationships that are important, not being combative. But if it’s a fight the other side wants then I am happy to argue the law with the best of them (that’s the “Fighting Irish” in me).

A highly competitive and very organised child and teenager, a peek at Lisa’s entry into law after a failed marriage and rock bottom financial situation would give any of her clients hope for life after litigation. Lisa was 40 when she started studying law, and was worried that no one would employ her when she finished her studies.

“But age became my friend. Life experience and knowledge of the practice of law obtained as a conveyancer in a local law firm gave me wings. I subsequently took up a position as an associate family lawyer with a growing law firm in Cairns, where for the next four years I honed my skills (and successfully completed a Masters Degree in Family Law). Then I took a leap of faith, opening my own law firm. I’ve never looked back.

“Changing your career changes your life – I was reinvented. I love what I do, and I believe this is reflected in my service to my clients. I’ve also forged many enduring friendships among my clientele and hope I can teach others to defy gravity by using their situation positively to change their life for the better,” says Lisa.

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

A BANK YOU CAN COUNT ON

Janette

burberry WORDS BY KIMBERLEY VLASIC

BELIEVING in yourself is the key to success in the male-dominated world of finance, according to Bank of Queensland Smithfield owner-manager Janette Burberry.

The Cairns local has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry after starting her career as a junior teller with the Electricity Credit Union.

With a natural flair for numbers and a can-do attitude, Janette rose quickly through the ranks at ECU and other financial institutions, including Suncorp, Commonwealth Bank and National Australia Bank, before moving into a corporate branch manager role at BOQ Cairns Central in 2002.

Six years later, she opened her own BOQ branch in Smithfield, which she and her six staff have established as a respected and reliable financial hub on the Northern Beaches.

“The most enjoyable aspects of being a female owner-manager is being able to build strong relationships not only with my customers and staff but other female leaders in my community,” says Janette.

“

S P E C I F I C A L L Y, T H E R E L AT I O N S H I P S T H AT H AV E MOVED FROM BUSINESS INTO TRUE FRIENDSHIPS WHERE THERE IS A C E R TA I N L E V E L O F T R U S T AND CAMARADERIE.”

Janette says she was drawn to BOQ by its strong focus on gender diversity and inclusion.

“Since 2012, the number of women in leadership roles at BOQ has increased from 12 to 34 per cent with a goal of 50 per cent representation by 2020,” she says.

“I’m proud to be part of a company with initiatives like this in place.”

After raising three children, Janette has turned her focus to nurturing the next generation of bankers.

By supporting the careers program at St Andrew’s Catholic College, she is helping school-leavers looking to combine a career in finance with study at James Cook University in Cairns and has so far recruited four students to work in her branch.

“It has been a wonderful experience watching each recruit develop their business skills within a banking environment and discover their potential whilst studying and staying close to family and friends,” says Janette.

BOQ Smithfield will soon undergo a complete refurbishment to reveal a new, modern look ahead of its 10th anniversary.

As part of the revamp, the branch will also resume trading on Saturday mornings.

Janette believes her nurturing nature, listening skills and personal resilience have contributed to her success.

She urged other women to consider a career in banking.

“From my experience, particularly with BOQ , there is plenty of room for women in finance,” she says.

“A woman can easily stand out in a field primarily dominated by men by being confident in her knowledge and abilities, and by backing herself.

“Find a mentor and take the advice from seasoned women in business, and embrace being different.”

Smithfield Shopping Centre, 1 Captain Cook Hwy, Smithfield QLD 4878 | (07) 4033 9011 | smithfield@boq.com.au

CairnsLife 14 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

INDIGENOUS HEALTH OUTCOMES A STROKE OF SERENDIPITY

HEALTHY LIVING CRYSTAL CLEAR

Kate

Nyree

gunn

banks

WOR DS BY KIMBER LEY VLASI C

FIGURING out which foods are best for your body is increasingly difficult in the age of information overload, with an endless stream of tweets, emails, articles and online posts telling us what to eat.

That’s where Nyree Banks from Health Naturally comes in.

For the past 12 years, the naturopath and herbalist has been helping Cairns residents cut through the noise by giving them the tools to lead a happy and healthy life.

“A lot of people are quite confused as to what is healthy for their body and how ‘healthy’ can fit into their lifestyle,” says Nyree.

“Working with them, finding out what needs supporting, what foods they should include in their diet and what foods they should be avoiding is a big part of what I do.”

Nyree specialises in gut, nervous system and adrenal health but has experience treating a wide range of issues.

Her clientele is just as diverse, from newborns and schoolchildren to women and men of all ages.

Nyree started her naturopathy career at a pharmacy where she gained valuable insight into controlled drugs.

“Understanding scheduled medicines is important when prescribing naturopathic formulas as so many of my clients are on prescription medications and there can be negative interactions between the two modalities,” she says.

Nyree went on to establish her own clinic on the Northern Beaches before moving to her current Bungalow premises four years ago.

In 2014, she co-founded YogaHub, a yoga studio with a community feel in the heart of Cairns.

“Naturopathy has so many different aspects – it’s not just about nutrition, diet or herbs, there are a lot of different modalities to tap into,” Nyree says.

“I feel like yoga is like that as well, it enhances your life.”

Nyree is in the process of rebranding her business and will soon launch a small range of formulas as well as an online program for clients in remote areas.

“

I LOVE IMPROVING PEOPLE’S QUALITY OF LIFE AND I LOVE THE ONEON-ONE ASPECT OF MY JOB,” SHE S AY S .

“People open up to you, which makes it a lot easier for me to treat them and help them make positive changes in their lives to ensure they feel happier and healthier whilst being supported along the way.”

41 Winkworth St, Cairns City QLD 4870 07 4057 5566 | www.healthnaturally.com.au

WO R D S B Y K I M B E R L EY VL ASIC

WHEN Balance! Healthcare founder and director Kate Gunn arrived in Cairns eight years ago, she had a plan - to provide jobs and primary healthcare for local indigenous families.

But the travelling entrepreneur soon realised the city’s population of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders was well catered for and it was the rapidly-growing southern suburbs that needed her help most.

So Kate established Balance!

Edmonton Family Practice, bringing together general practitioners, nurses, medical specialists, allied health professionals and other healthcare providers.

The “one stop shop” on Walker Rd was built using infrastructure funding from the Federal Government and is one of three Balance! practices, including two GP Super Super clinics, in Australia.

In a curious twist of fate, 30 per cent of patients are indigenous and nine staff members are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

“

WE FEEL R E A L LY P R O U D O F OUR INDIGENOUS FOOTPRINT AND THE C A PA C I T Y B U I L D I N G WE ARE DOING WITH OUR INDIGENOUS W O R K F O R C E , ” S AY S K AT E .

“We’ve got a real focus on indigenous health, so continuing to do good work in this area is something that’s important for us.”

Kate has more than 25 years’ experience across a diverse range of fields but has taken a special interest in health and women’s issues.

During her seven-year tenure as National Foundation for Australian Women president, Kate helped secure the Federal Government deal for paid parental leave.

She considers it one of her greatest achievements.

“Obviously it ended up being many organisations that were part of the final negotiation but originally it (the policy) came from lobbying we did, which was really satisfying,” says Kate.

She also won a scholarship to Harvard Business School’s prestigious Women’s Leadership Forum in Boston, US, last year and in 2012, was named as one of the Australian Financial Review’s inaugural 100 Women of Influence.

Kate credits her mother for her entrepreneurial spirit and “can do” attitude.

“She would say ‘you can do whatever you like. Don’t just go and get married and have kids - have a career and go to university’... That’s really impactful,” says Kate.

Next to Sugarworld Shopping Center 5 Walker Road, Edmonton, QLD 4869 Ph 4055 4400 | www.balancehealthclinic.com.au

CairnsLife 15 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Melissa dunne

WORDS BY SUZY GRINTER PHOTO BY MINORI UEDA

“I was always good with numbers at school, but for some reason presumed I would do something else in my career.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life, but chose to do accounting at uni, thinking it would be handy if I could do my own books. So, I achieved my qualifications, and just forgot to do something else,” laughs Melissa.

Commencing her career with PricewaterhouseCoopers, after four years Melissa began to feel that in such a huge organisation, the people making the decisions were completely detached from the coalface. So, she left to join KM Kehoe & Associates, at the time a small firm, but soon merging with other accounting businesses.

“Five years later, Rod Baker and Mark Latimer approached me about going into business together, did I want to join them? We had the shared desire to have the close interaction with our clients that only comes with small business.

“I was pretty young to become a partner at 29, but it was great to be in it from the beginning, to have input into what it was going to look like, in every sense.

We started out renting premises on Mulgrave Road, and four years ago, we decided to buy this property in

Aumuller Street, knocking down the old dilapidated Queenslander and building brand new premises that we own. No more rent.

“We’re a very cohesive team, and whatever’s happening in our work, we sit down and have lunch together once a week.

“Sometimes we fight, they’re my work husbands after all,” Melissa laughs.

“But even if we’re not talking we have lunch together, and that usually breaks the ice.

“We have a great relationship; sometimes we don’t agree, but we have to compromise to get along. After all, we see each other more than married people do!”

While the team of three share and exercise a diverse range of financial skills and expertise, predominantly Melissa handles the tax and business accounting side, Mark specialising in self managed superannuation, and Rod focusing on wealth building. The combination of knowledge and extensive and diverse experience works perfectly for the threesome, working independently from each other but sharing many clients.

Melissa works exclusively with small to medium business owners, assisting with their financial statements and tax returns, as well as guiding them through important business decisions, and the important tax planning required as 30 June approaches.

“I love what I do. Many people would think number work is boring, but dealing with different businesses every day gives me variety. I like to visit my clients in their workplaces, get a feel for the business and their work environment to give them appropriate business advice.

“One of our things here is having direct access to the partners. Our clients don’t have to go through our staff, they have direct access to the three of us; that’s important to us,” says Melissa.

“

I BELIEVE I’M S U C C E S S F U L S I M P LY B E C A U S E I TA K E G R E AT P E R S O N A L INTEREST IN MY CLIENTS AND T H E I R W E L FA R E A N D B E C A U S E I W O R K H A R D , T H E L AT T E R COMING FROM MY MUM, WHO HAS WORKED HARD HER WHOLE LIFE, AND NOW WORKS W I T H U S H E R E AT B U S I N E S S A N D W E A LT H PA R T N E R S , ” S AY S M E L I S S A .

209 Aumuller St, Bungalow QLD 4870 | (07) 4054 9600 | www.businessandwealth.com.au

CairnsLife 16 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business W OR D S B Y S U Z Y GR IN T E R

P H OTO BY S ILV IA MOGOR OV IC H

STANDING UP TO STIGMA

W ORDS BY K I MBERLEY VL ASIC

Kathy Carol shipway martin

EVERY day is a struggle when you live with a mental health condition.

health condition and other disadvantaged groups within the community.

Fortunately, there are people like Kathy Martin working tirelessly to tackle the stigma of mental illness and to break the cycle of unemployment.

Naturally, Kathy’s role model is Worklink co-founder Dorothy Dunne, who she describes as a “visionary”.

A desire to improve the wellbeing of families in Far North Queensland inspired Kathy to enter social services 20 years ago and it continues to drive her today.

“I was a youth worker for quite a few years,” she says.

“We mainly dealt with kids who had youth justice issues or had just dropped out, or their parents couldn’t manage them.

“I could see that their mental health was really, really fragile… I knew that I had to get involved in this to try to make a change.”

As general manager of Worklink Employment Support Group, Kathy oversees 60 staff across the non-profit organisation’s four offices, which are located in Yarrabah, Cairns, Innisfail and Atherton.

They cover a vast area – from Cardwell in the south, the Daintree in the north, west to the Tablelands and east to Yarrabah – providing support to people with a mental

“

I R E A L LY A D M I R E H E R PA S S I O N AND HER COMMITMENT TO RAISING AWA R E N E S S , A N D REDUCING THE STIGMA A R O U N D M E N TA L I L L N E S S , ” S H E S AY S .

The constantly shifting landscape of government funding and impending arrival of the National Disability Insurance Scheme next year are a challenge for all service providers in the sector.

But it’s one Kathy and her dedicated team will embrace.

“We’re undergoing massive change in our industry, so we want to be the best provider for delivering services to people who have a mental health condition – that’s our vision,” she says.

“We don’t know how big or how small we’ll be but our values, goals and mission will remain the same.”

209 Lyons Street, Westcourt, QLD 4870 Ph 4031 0877 | www.worklink.org.au

When you find your vocational niche in life, it’s the sum total of your accumulated life experiences that contribute to success.

After 11 years operating a plant business in Cairns, I went to Sydney to achieve certification as a teacher of English as a Second Language. In Cairns, I worked in husband Myles’ law firm while completing a Social Science degree. Faced with a complex migration matter, Myles suggested that I become a registered migration agent and so I studied immigration law for migration agents at the same time as my degree.

If you ask anyone how they became successful, well, it’s not from sitting around waiting for life to deliver your chosen career on a plate.

Everything eventually came together: the social science degree, the TESOL qualification and experience in law. Underpinning my passion for helping migrants was my childhood environment. My father employed migrants from numerous nations in his growing distributorship business. He respected them greatly for their strong work ethic and their considerable skills, as well as their bravery coming to a new country

with no English language and facing, in part, a sceptical and unwelcoming community.

As a schoolchild in Adelaide, it pained me to see migrants treated badly. I developed great interest in different cultures, and a profound appreciation of the values and diversity of ideas and skills multiculturalism brings to our communities.

At Carol Shipway Migration Services, we’ve helped many people to achieve their goal of residency in Australia, and I am so proud of my team, as we share many values, ethics and keep updated with the knowledge required to do this work.

W H AT D O E S I T TA K E TO BE A SUCCESSFUL M I G R AT I O N A G E N T ? C E R TA I N LY C O M PA S S I O N , B U T A L S O P R A G M AT I S M , D E T E R M I N AT I O N , A N D D E F I N I T E LY A S E N S E OF HUMOUR.

On a personal level and in business I actively seek opportunities for individuals and businesses and work to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients, who in turn give us inspiration, insight and knowledge.

Pentagon Building, Suite 12, 25 Grafton St, Cairns City QLD 4870 (07) 4041 1580 | www.carolshipwaymigration.com.au

CairnsLife 17 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Annalisa Siefken

ANNALISA Siefken lives and breathes her brand

the sustainability category of the AusMumpreneur Awards.

The 36-year-old Cairns woman is the founder of BARE Movement personal care products, a rapidly growing line of chemical-free hair and skincare products that is sold online and in salons around the country.

This year promises more success for Annalisa, who has been nominated for the 2017 Telstra and Cairns business women’s awards and plans to relaunch the brand with new products, a fresh look and stronger messages.

She is also owner and stylist of BARE movement hair studio in Palm Cove, and author of health and wellness blog, BARE woman InsideOut.

“I see BARE movement empowering and inspiring a movement of mindfulness, self-care and connectedness while creating easy access to chemical-free products while helping individuals look and feel amazing,” she says.

“I attend many seminars and courses around hair, health and wellness, as well as Qigong, yoga and mindfulness retreats – you could say I’m addicted to growth,” says Annalisa.

“BARE movement was created in response to the increasing amount of chemicals in our self-care products, many years of ill health, multiple miscarriages and a growing need for easy access, to more natural, chemical free, ethical hair and skincare products without compromising on quality and effectiveness.”

BARE products are manufactured in Australia using ethical ingredients with packaging that is made from salvaged materials and 100 per cent recyclable.

When it comes to protecting the environment, Annalisa believes we can all make a difference.

“We see the impact that our past choices are having on our environment through climate change and increases in energy and water costs,” she says.

“My family and I are far from perfect, but we like to make conscious choices when purchasing products for the home and health and know that every small decision has the ability to create a large impact.”

In 2015, Annalisa opened the BARE Movement hair studio to offer ammonia-free, conscious hair styling and was named a finalist in

“

IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE, SO STILL DOING THE THINGS IN L I F E T H AT B R I N G YOU JOY BUT JUST B E I N G AWA R E O F T H E I M PA C T THOSE CHOICES H AV E .

Annalisa believes that in order to create the life we want it’s important to stand up for what we stand on. Integrating her knowledge that she gathers from the many mentors and books she surrounds herself by, enables her to align her life and business and live congruently with her values. “Self care is the most important practice we need to do. When we nourish ourselves and do more of what we love, that’s when we can be a greater contribution to others” “Contribution is key, so for me it’s giving as much information as I can while collaborating with like-minded businesses to help spread the message further.”

Shop 2, Hotel Grand Chancellor, Coral Coast Drive, Palm Cove 403 662 273 | www.baremovement.com

Carley elsum WO R D S B Y B R I D EY ZEL L P H O TO B Y M I N OR I U ED A

2016 was a monumental year for Carley Elsum. She became a partner of Ochre Restaurant and facilitated a move from its long-term premises in the heart of the CBD to its stunning new location overlooking Trinity Inlet at the Harbour Lights.

“Moving to the new location was a massive move for us” says Carley, “and we are really happy with the result”.

Alongside co-owner Craig Squire, the pair are proud of their efforts. The restaurant has a long list of awards, firmly establishing itself as one of Cairns best fine dining venues, as well as a leading catering service for weddings and events in the region. Carley represents Ochre at many tradeshows including travelling to Sydney & Melbourne promoting Ochre and Tropical North Queensland.

Carley’s career in hospitality, spanning 14 years, started as a family affair. Her early years were spent working alongside her mother and sister. Her journey at Ochre Restaurant began in June 2009. In 2013 she was a finalist in the Young Manager of the Year awards.

She has been the General Manager of Ochre for the past two years. Her decision to invest financially into the restaurant was the next step.

“

I’VE PUT MY HEART AND SOUL INTO THIS PLACE, AND WHEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO B E C O M E PA R T N E R PRESENTED I T S E L F, I K N E W I T WA S A P O S I T I V E S T E P F O RWA R D , ” S H E S AY S .

It’s no secret that the demands of working within hospitality are significant, and that only intensifies as an owner. Carley admits the struggle to juggle her work life balance, with much of her time and energy devoted to her job. “I make time for bike riding early in the morning, the rest of my time is spent at the restaurant.”

Carley Elsum’s passion and commitment certainly earn her a place as an inspirational woman in business.

6 / 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns | Ph 4051 0100 info@ochrerestaurant.com.au ochrerestaurant.com.au

CairnsLife 18 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

DYNAMIC DUO AT THE VANGUARD OF HR

Phoebe kitto &

Rebecca bottomer WO R D S B Y KIMBERLEY VLASIC PH O TO B Y M I N O R I U E D A

THE same dogged determination that drives Phoebe Kitto across the marathon finish line has ensured her survival in a challenging economic climate.

The 43-year-old Kiwi started HR Dynamics in March 2007 after identifying a need for effective human resource management solutions for small- and mediumsized organisations in Port Douglas.

The global financial crisis hit soon after but that didn’t deter Phoebe, who began door-knocking in the area to try to drum up some business.

“To do long distance running, you’ve got to be tenacious,” she says.

“You have good runs, you have bad runs; you’ve just got to keep chipping away at it and that’s really an analogy for business.

“It’s tough… you really have to put your big boots on and be confident, and get out there.”

Phoebe’s positive attitude paid off and together with business partner and co-director, Rebecca Bottomer, she has established HR Dynamics as the Far North’s leading HR agency.

The pair met working at the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas and make a formidable team.

“Our main specialty is helping organisations manage difficult staff,” says Phoebe.

“Whenever you’ve got people working closely together there are always going to be different opinions, grievances, frustrations or a lack of understanding as to what is actually required for the job.

“

IT’S JUST ABOUT H AV I N G T H AT T H I R D - PA R T Y PERSON COME IN AND HELP THE EMPLOYER AND EMPLOYEES WORK THROUGH THE ISSUES TO GET A POSITIVE RESOLUTION.”

Rebecca quips: “No one wants to be a bad manager or staff member but sometimes they’re just lacking the skills.”

HR Dynamics’ main office in Cairns is staffed by three employees, who work with Rebecca and Phoebe to implement quality and usable HR systems at organisations of all sizes.

Phoebe specialises in staff grievances and bullying and harassment claims, while Rebecca enjoys the technical side of HR and handles the bigger clients.

“We’ve got a really good open working relationship,” says Rebecca.

“We work completely collaboratively together and have done since day one.”

Face to face contact is a point of difference for HR Dynamics, one that keeps Rebecca and Phoebe on the road.

But they also recognise the value of technology and integrated HR systems that they can help to manage from afar.

“Businesses still need HR contracts and policies but tracking and managing electronic copies is much sexier,” says Phoebe.

The dynamic duo plans to continue growing the company’s client-base, which currently extends from the Northern Territory to Cape York and south to Rockhampton.

“We would like to expand down the coast definitely,” says Rebecca.

“We’re really lucky with the staff we have and we’ve been really concentrating on making sure our growth is sustainable.”

182 Grafton St, Cairns City QLD 4870 | (07) 4051 7307 | www.hrdynamics.com.au

CairnsLife 19 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

TREKKING WITH A CONSCIENCE

Angela freeman

WOR DS BY K IMB E RLEY VL ASIC P H O TO BY MI NORI UEDA

SUE Fitcher will never forget the first time she tackled the Kokoda Trail.

The physically demanding 96km track winds through the jungled mountains of Papua New Guinea and is the site of the Battle of Kokoda fought by Australians in World War II. The Getaway Trekking CEO has walked the same path tread by her great uncle, who was in the 39th battalion, 16 times, her admiration for him and his fellow diggers growing with every step.

“It is really the most incredibly powerful experience to trek Kokoda,” says Sue. “This was the first time that Australia stood up and fought for our own country.

“

WE’RE THE CUSTODIANS OF T H AT H I S T O RY A N D W E TA K E T H AT V E R Y S E R I O U S L Y. ” Getaway Trekking has offices in Cairns and Melbourne and runs up to 30 treks to Kokoda each year, with a purpose-designed program catering to school groups, which account for about half of its clientele.

Sue fitcher The company also operates treks in Nepal, England, India, Tibet and Bhutan, recently adding a seven-day hike, yoga and spa package in Indonesia to the list.

Sue feels a strong sense of social responsibility towards the communities she works in and gives back in various ways.

In PNG alone, Getaway Trekking employs 150 locals who are provided with professional development opportunities such as a first aid training.

“Rather than handing out - we don’t want to do that, we want to actually create an economy in the village, one that is sustainable and provide an opportunity to help people help themselves,” says Sue. Her generosity doesn’t stop in PNG and over the years, Getaway Trekking has helped raise more than $250,000 for charity through events such as the Cairns Corporate Challenge.

But it is Sue who considers herself lucky.

“I think that I’m incredibly fortunate to be in a position that we can actually make a difference to people, whether it’s our clients in opening up new experiences that can be life changing, the charities we’ve been able to support, or providing employment for our staff so that they can educate their kids and keep them healthy,” she says.

theSPACE TAFE U-Block,, Eureka St, Manunda QLD 4870 1300 979 088 | www.getawaytrekking.com.au

FEW people could count a 5.4-metre reptile among their closest confidants.

“Big Ted”, as he is known, is a longterm resident at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and believed to be the second largest estuarine crocodile in captivity in the world.

WOR D S BY K I M B E R L E Y VL ASIC There is no shortage of mouths to feed at the Freemans’ three attractions, which recently underwent major upgrades and welcomed staff redeployed from Cairns Tropical Zoo after its closure last year.

He is also Angela Freeman’s favourite animal – a huge honour when your caretaker is a pioneer of wildlife tourism in Far North Queensland.

Angela says the biggest challenges facing the industry are red tape and the ever-growing number of direct and indirect fees, charges and taxation imposed by all levels of government.

“He’s getting to be a tad on the frail side but he is still a ‘chick magnet’,” says Angela.

When the going gets tough, she finds strength in her staff, both past and present.

“I used to enjoy having a little chat with him over at the old Hartley’s Creek Zoo on days when it was getting all too hard, he’s a good listener.”

For nearly 40 years, the Freeman family has been giving visitors and locals alike the chance to interact with native and exotic wildlife at their attractions, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Hartley’s Night Adventures, Kuranda Birdworld and Kuranda Koala Gardens.

They have also raised more than $100,000 for conservation projects through the North Queensland Wildlife Trust.

Angela joined her husband Peter at the Wildlife Tropical North Queensland Group 20 years ago and has become known as a vocal conservationist and naturalist.

She has served in a volunteer capacity at a variety of local tourism organisations and is currently the Kuranda representative on the Tropical Tablelands Tourism board and a member of the Tourism Kuranda advisory committee.

While Angela’s career in wildlife tourism was accidental, it was also perhaps inevitable.

“I grew up with a mum, sadly no longer with us, who was very passionate about wildlife and animals generally so it all fell into place for me,” she says.

“There was never a day in my childhood that we were not feeding or caring for something.”

“

NO M AT T E R W H AT CHALLENGES OR CURVEBALLS WE FA C E , T H E Y W O R K AS A TEAM AND GO ABOVE AND BEYOND, STILL MANAGING TO H AV E A L A U G H AT THE END OF THE D A Y, ” S H E S A Y S .

“This might include moving a five metre crocodile seamlessly, cleaning up after a cyclone near miss or a huge overnight deluge, cooking off the menu for 800-plus people who decide to all turn up just before lunch, dealing with the occasional ‘mystery bus’ that turns up with 50 people at the right time but on the wrong day, providing ‘end of life’ care to a much loved animal that has reached the end of its time on our earth - nothing phases them.

“They come to work every day with a smile on their faces and deal with everything that comes their way like the true professionals they are.”

In recent years, Angela has turned her hand to high fashion, working with her husband and their Japanese business partners to create a range of limited edition crocodile leather goods and handbags using skins produced at their Wangetti farm.

The couple has enjoyed strong demand for the products with the latest range expected to arrive in coming weeks.

Captain Cook Highway (PO Box 171) Palm Cove, QLD 4879 (07) 4055 3576 | www.wildlifetropicalnorthqueensland.com

CairnsLife 20 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

A PASSION FOR PILATES

Janine Noopetch

WOR DS BY BRI DEY ZELL

Janine Noopetch, owner of Cairns Pilates Barre, has built both her life and her business around fitness.

“Pilates has always been a part of my life,” she says, “it makes me feel amazing”. Attending dance classes from a young age, dance was always a big part of her life. “Mum was dance teacher, so I used to help her with her classes”. Janine also completed extensive circus training.

She travelled overseas, working as a choreographer, as well dance and circus performer, in a variety of locations, and met her husband, Yot, in the Maldives. They came to Cairns and Janine retired from dance and choreography to have two children, however, the Pilates never left her.

“Pilates is great for fitness and overall health,” says Janine, “I have used it to heal injuries, and to avoid knee surgery.”

Janine has taken her love of Pilates to the next level, completing BASI™ Pilates (Body Arts and Science International) training.

This elite training program is very comprehensive, and requires many hours of training and practice. “In order to pass BASI™ Pilates training,

P H O TO B Y M I N O R I U E D A

you have to know all the exercises in detail,” Janine says, “BASI™ Pilates is a very balanced programme for the body. Pilates is not as effective if it is not done properly and can cause injuries”. Her husband is currently undertaking BASI™ training to be able to teach alongside Janine at their Smithfield studio, which opened for business February last year.

The studio offers a wide range of pilates based classes; Bootybarre, Pre and post-natal Bootybarre, Rhythm Pilates, Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, Tower Pilates and also Rhythm Row (taught by husband Yot). Coming soon to the studio will be a sister class to the bootybarre, known as bbarreless, a combination of Dance, Pilates and Yoga. Classes are small, and tailored for individual clients.

The studio provides BASI™ Pilates instructor training and incorporates a wide range of specialised Pilates equipment such as Reformer, Tower, Step, Barrel, Wunda chair, Cadillac, Avalon Systems and Ladder Barrel. The pair have invited world renowned Pilates instructors to come to Cairns Pilates Barre to provide Pilates instructor training, such as

Ed Botha, Jordanna Smith, Ashley Ritchie. Janine has also had the opportunity to be trained by both Lisa Hubbard (creator of Rhythm Pilates) and Tracey Mallet (creator of Bootybarre). “these ladies inspire me so much, “says Janine, “Tracey Mallet is my reason for having my own studio now.”

It is evident that both Janine and Yot are seriously passionate about Pilates and sharing it with the world. Janine admits that the Pilates never stops for her.

“

I CAN H O N E S T LY S AY T H AT I D O N ’ T EVER FEEL LIKE I ’ M AT W O R K . I L O V E WAT C H I N G MY CLIENTS PROGRESS. I’VE SEEN HUGE T R A N S F O R M AT I O N S IN MY LONG TERM CLIENTS.”

Family time is also important for Janine and Yot. They enjoy taking their children camping and swimming in various locations around the Far North on their days off.

Smithfield, Queensland, 12 Danbulan St, Cairns QLD 4878 | 402 796 211 | www.cairnspilatesbarre.com

CairnsLife 21 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Gold Award Winner 2017

Krista Watkins

JUGGLING a cutting-edge health food company with raising two young girls is no easy task but it’s one that Krista Watkins carries off with effortless grace.

The Natural Evolution Foods cofounder and managing director discovered the secret in a popular children’s book.

“I really like the Alice in Wonderland quote: ‘six impossible things before breakfast’,” she says.

“What I get done afterwards is just a blessing” Just like Lewis Carroll’s protagonist, Krista took a tumble down a rabbit hole of her own in 2010 when she and husband Rob made their first batch of green banana flour using fruit that would have otherwise gone to waste.

The discovery put the Tablelands suburb of Walkamin on the map and propelled the couple to the forefront of scientific research and innovation.

It soon led to other breakthroughs, all of which have garnered international attention and earned the Watkins a swag of awards.

Just last month, the couple travelled to New York, US, for the Edison Awards - the Oscars of innovation - where they received Gold for their food processing technology, NutroLock.

“

THE POWER OF DREAMS, PA S S I O N A N D I N N O VAT I O N ”

W O RDS B Y KI M BER L E Y VLA S I C

Krista herself has emerged as a role model for rural women and she was named a finalist for the Queensland Rural Women’s Award last year, also picking up the 2016 AusMumpreneur Award for sustainability.

“It’s been a very humbling but enriching experience,” she says.

“I always say if I can share my experience to help someone else get to their destination a bit quicker, then it’s all worth it.”

Krista and Rob are in the process of rebranding Natural Evolution to better reflect its Tropical North Queensland roots in preparation to take the brand global.

In mid-2017, they will double their product range when they release a line of premixes featuring their green banana flour, which is in strong demand from the growing gluten-free movement.

Krista reflected on a journey that in many ways is only just beginning.

“We have made some enormous scientific discoveries,” she says.

“We’ve found the highest resistant starch on earth and mid-last year we discovered 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan, a precursor to serotonin which regulates mood and behaviour) in our resistant starch, so the future for us is to continue on this evolutionary journey of making incredible scientific discoveries in food that’s right in front of us every day and we have never thought to look at it any differently.

“It’s time to question everything.”

Corner of O’Connell Rd & Hansen Rd Walkamin 4872 QLD (07) 4093 3849 | www.naturalevolutionfoods.com.au

BRINGING BRIDES THE BEST

Cassandra Larkin

From a young age Cassandra Larkin knew she wanted to be a part of the fashion industry.

Helping a woman feel her best on one of the most memorable days of her life is what keeps her motivated.

Owner of The Dress and Beyond bridal shop in Atherton, Cassandra is committed to supplying the big names in bridal and formalwear to the Far North.

She attends the main bridal collection shows at least once or twice a year to source new stock, making the sojourn to Sydney in February this year to catch up on the latest trends and bring capital city couture to the region.

Her range includes the stunning bridal gowns of Maggie Sottero and Windsor bridal accessories, which featured on Married at First Sight, so women don’t have to travel to Melbourne or Sydney to choose the latest dress and the added expenses that involves.

Cassandra opened The Dress and Beyond in 2013 and loves being part of the excitement of a wedding and creating a happy experience for brides.

“There are only a few special moments in life you remember

WOR D S BY S H E R E E SC OTT

forever, and I pride myself on making sure a bride is 100 per cent happy for one of the biggest days in her life,” Cassandra says.

With nine years’ experience as a seamstress, Cassandra does all the fittings and any alterations in store herself so customers can be confident of the best result.

People don’t have to run the risk of ill-fitting online purchases either, as a range of budgets is catered for with dresses starting from $300.

Debutante gowns, formal wear, bridesmaid dresses and suit hire and purchase are also available in modern colours. Cassandra’s dedication to bringing the best to her customers makes celebrating life’s milestones that much easier.

“

T H AT ’ S W H AT KEEPS DRIVING M E – B E I N G PA R T O F T H AT E X C I T I N G AND HAPPY EXPERIENCE FOR BRIDES.”

26B Main St, Atherton | Ph 4091 6991 Open 10am-5pm Mon-Fri, Sat 9am-noon www.facebook.com/thedressandbeyond/

CairnsLife 22 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

STRIVING TO CLOSE THE GAP

Helen wilkes W O RD S B Y SHEREE SC O T T PHO TO B Y M I NO RI U E D A

When Helen Wilkes resolved to swap the dreary cold of industrial Manchester for sunnier skies and snorkelling in Cairns she had no idea of the far-reaching consequences it would have.

“Initially the transient holiday atmosphere of Cairns in 1989 felt surreal,” Helen says.

It wasn’t until she started travelling and working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that she felt at home.

“Their welcoming attitude was the missing link and the start of a life-changing passion to raise awareness in closing the gap for these very special people,” she says.

With an attitude of honesty and respect, she rose up the ranks of the accounting and advisory services sector to become the Principal for Indigenous Services at Grant Thornton in Australia.

“Coming from the UK, I’d never met an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person before.

Hearing their stories over the last 30 years and what they’ve been through, I can see there is a lot to do. Wherever you look there is a difference in standards - in health, education and opportunities.

HELPING THOUSANDS SUCCEED

Joann pyne

“

M Y W O R K AT GRANT THORNTON ALLOWS ME TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE,” S H E S AY S .

Helen’s team conducts financial audits of indigenous communities and organisations throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory, helping to improve corporate governance with training and ensuring community members understand the financial reports.

“Our team also assists our indigenous clients in areas such as tax planning advice, helping them to gain charitable status, providing structuring advice when it comes to receiving royalties and other income streams, fringe benefits tax advice and even mentoring, “she says.

“People within the communities know and trust our team, most we’ve known for the past 20 to 30 years.

It has become a close knit network that I feel respected within and a part of.”

“Plus I get to wear jeans and travel to really remote communities in incredibly stunning parts of Australia.”

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

You would be hard pressed to find anyone more passionate about helping people achieve their career dreams than Joann Pyne, General Manager of TAFE Queensland North.

After more than 20 years at TAFE, the Cairns local knows everything there is to know about TAFE. She has been instrumental in developing a range of award-winning programs that have responded to business, industry and community needs.

She started at TAFE as a Planning Officer, worked in marketing, became the Faculty Manager in tourism and hospitality, the Faculty Manager in trades, Education Manager and Institute Director at Mt Isa before being named General Manager of the Cairns, Townsville and Mt Isa campuses in 2013.

“While I’ve done a lot of different jobs, the thing that keeps me here and what I love is seeing the change that TAFE makes in people’s lives,” she said. “It’s really very rewarding.”

Level 13, 15 Lake St, Cairns | Ph 4046 8888 | www.grantthornton.com.au

CairnsLife 23 Magazine

She is determined to ensure TAFE continues to be premier training provider and an advocate of indigenous vocational education in Queensland.

“

I’VE SEEN THOUSANDS OF SUCCESS STORIES,” S H E S A I D . “ B E I N G PA R T OF THOSE STORIES IS JUST WONDERFUL.

“Another thing I love about TAFE is that the teachers and staff are really keen for students to succeed,” said Joann, who oversees more than 500 staff.

“I’m really proud of our staff, who work really hard to get the outcomes we do.”

As Joann marks her 21st year at TAFE later in the year, she has no plans to leave.

“TAFE is in my bones now,” she said. “I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

TAFE Queensland www.tafeqld.edu.au | 1300 308 233

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Eva grabner

OPERATING AT AN ELITE LEVEL

P HOTOS BY PHOTOHO LI C STUDI O

Elite Executive is an Executive Recruitment and Search firm that has been operating in Cairns for over two years. The organisation is headed by Eva Grabner, a passionate and determined woman, who admits she got into recruitment by accident.

Despite this, she has come from working in hospitality and tourism management to running a highly successful organisation, priding itself on its high-level of customer service.

Originating from Ireland, Eva moved to Australia 14 years ago.

She had spent time travelling the world, working in a variety of hospitality establishments, as well as cruise ships. Her journey in Australia began at Cape Tribulation, and eventually Cairns.

After deciding that hospitality was no longer what she wanted to be doing, it was by chance that Eva fell into recruitment. She moved to Sydney for a 12-month period and worked for a high level executive firm. “This was a positive experience, but I missed Cairns, so I came back,” Eva recalls.

Upon her return to Cairns, Eva

WO R D S B Y B R I D E Y ZEL L

joined a national recruitment company as Partner. For Eva, this was the first step to owning her own business. It had reach and provided Eva with the contacts and network on a national level.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to take my time to develop my own brand without rushing,” Eva says, “all the logistical considerations of running a business were taken care of.” It was when her son was seven months old that she began operating as Elite Executive. In two years, this organisation has flourished to become one of Australia’s leading Recruitment Firms.

The recruitment industry doesn’t always get a good rap. Eva acknowledges the importance of taking the time to get to know the clients, as well as ensuring that you take on the right clients and candidates.

“

I T ’ S A D E L I C AT E B U S I N E S S A N D I WA N T TO MAKE SURE I DO IT RIGHT”

(07) 4057 9053 | www.eliteexecutive.com.au

CairnsLife 24 Magazine

“I want to be a different kind of recruiter, and I believe that I am.”

Executive Elite has both local and interstate clients, services both large and medium organisations, and is also a Global Search Specialist, the only one in this region. The company has achieved global reach, and has a big picture focus.

As a single mother to a young son, Eva identifies that it can be challenging to maintain a work life balance, but ultimately, her focus is her son. “Work is work, but when I’m with my son, I focus on him,” she says, “I might do a few hours work after he goes to bed.” She also emphasises that her weekends are important in order to maintain mental clarity.

Elite Executive is a constantly growing and evolving organisation, with its roots firmly planted in Cairns. “I love Cairns, it is my home. I want to raise my son here,“ Eva says.

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

BRIDAL BEAUTY ON LOCATION ECO REVIVAL

Ashlee piper

Courtney Pitcher

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” This popular saying sums up perfectly the motivation behind The Modern Day Hippy, Courtney Pitcher.

This entrepreneurial mother and transformational coach is focused on reducing single-use plastics that are clogging the environment by offering a range of sustainable alternatives.

“

L O O K I N G AT T H E S TAT E O F T H E P L A N E T A N D W H AT IS HAPPENING WITH MARINE LIFE AND E N V I R O N M E N TA L POLLUTION FROM P L A S T I C S , I R E A L LY F E LT L I K E W E N E E D T O GIVE MORE BACK THAN W E TA K E A N D L I V E WITH MORE BALANCE,” S H E S AY S .

“I was concerned at the level of consumerism and I wanted to find more sustainable sources for our everyday products.”

She decided to “walk the talk” and make the lifestyle change to using natural products like bamboo and glass straws instead of plastic ones, and

W O RD S B Y SHEREE S C O T T PHO TO B Y M I NO RI U E D A

switch to re-useable shopping bags and drink containers.

The first line of eco-products, the “Go Green Starter Pack”, will be showcased at the Cairns Eco-Fiesta on May 28 or is available online from www. themoderndayhippy.com Her 10-year-old son was another driving force. “When you think where we will be in 50 years’ time, you can see certain parts of the planet are really suffering. We need to start making changes now.”

Growing up in a lower socioeconomic area of Victoria, she was acutely aware of the mental and social issues that can hold people back from their full potential. By overcoming her own personal trials and challenges, she was inspired to use those skills to help others. For the past seven years Courtney has been helping change people’s lives from within through transformational coaching, cognitive therapy, energy healing and essential oils.

Now she wants to make a change on the material level by encouraging a lifestyle change that takes pressure off our environment.

P H O T O B Y S I LV I A MOGOROVICH

Making certain that you have the perfect hair and make-up on your wedding day is what Ashlee Piper Hairdressing does best.

Experienced hairdresser and wedding stylist Ashlee Piper has 18 years’ experience in the industry. Not only do her clients get one of the region’s best hairdressers, she provides a unique and professional mobile service to make life easier and less stressful for brides on their big day.

“We have recognised that it’s a huge convenience and very practical for brides and their bridal party for us to go to them on their big day,” said Ashlee, who has worked on countless weddings over the years.

“

IT’S SO MUCH EASIER FOR THE BRIDES T H A N T R AV E L L I N G INTO A SALON ON THEIR WEDDING D AY A S T H E I R D AY C A N B E D I F F I C U LT ENOUGH. “Usually where the brides are getting married is most often the place where they get ready, so we go to them in the comfort of their hotel, venue or home. We set up a workstation and do their hair and make-up in the most

www.themoderndayhippy.com | Ph: 0498485028 www.facebook.com/themoderndayhippy/

CairnsLife 25 Magazine

relaxed and enjoyable environment possible. Brides and their bridal party can then unwind and really savour their morning, as well as getting ready with privacy and comfort all while sipping on a glass of champagne… or two.”

Because they are on location, Ashlee and her team can also be there while the pre-wedding photos are being taken to make certain their clients look their best. They also meet their brides before their big day for a trial and to discuss hair and makeup requirements to ensure the bride, bridesmaids and mother of bride/ groom have the perfect hair and make-up to follow.

The professional and reputable mobile service covers Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas, the Tablelands and Mission Beach.

Ashlee has worked with many leading brands including L’oreal, Redken, GHD, American Crew and Balmain Hair Extensions. She excels in all areas of hairdressing and has an intrinsic eye for cutting-edge beauty.

“We get a lot of great feedback from our clients,” she said. “I’ve done a number of bridesmaids previously who then contact me to take care of them on their wedding day, even years down the track from the first time we did hair and makeup for them. That is truly rewarding for us, as is seeing a bride look her absolute best on her special day.”

Follow Ashlee Piper Hairdressing on facebook and Instagram to keep up with this amazing and creative talent.

Ph: 0402 850 550 ashlee@ashleepiperhairdressing.com.au www.ashleepiperhairdressing.com.au

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY

Judy evans

WO R D S B Y B R I D E Y Z E LL

Judy Evans and her family were searching for something ‘different’, they dreamed of finding something far removed from the ordinary or mundane. Her and husband Mark, had spent 18 months travelling the Australian landscape with their young family, and had finally come to settle in Cairns, falling in love with its tropical surroundings.

They had visions of operating a caravan park or the like, but whatever it was, they wanted it to be something unique. Then one day, they got the call from their agent – a castle in Innisfail was for sale. Many would be familiar with the love story that is Paronella Park, and the humble sugar cane farmer who built a castle for his family.

The former computer programmer had spent the six years before their Australian travels in Singapore.

Whilst her husband worked at GE, Judy stayed at home. There was no house cleaning to be done, as a maid took care of all the household duties. While the children were at school, Judy used this time to

broaden her knowledge, doing all sorts of courses, ranging from cooking, to calligraphy, and language studies. “I’ve always had a passion for learning, and I needed to be entertained during the day,” Judy laughs.

Following their time in Singapore, Judy and Mark took an entirely new direction. “My children had grown up in a life of privilege,” she said, “I wanted to show them the real world”. Thus came a decision to purchase a caravan and homeschool her children whilst travelling Australia. After braving the cold of Tasmania, the family made their way back to the tropics, lured by the warmer weather.

Owning a castle seemed like a dream to this family, yet the reality of owning and operating a tourist park like this one was challenging.

It required hard work, seven days a week. Judy and her husband had traversed many a caravan park, little did they know how different it would be running one. They had no experience maintaining tropical

gardens, and heritage buildings.

This was a huge learning curve for them. Nearly 24 years later, and it is evident that their hard work has truly paid off.

“

I T R E A L LY I S A P A R T N E R S H I P, A F A M I L Y R U N B U S I N E S S , “ S AY S J U D Y.

Judy and Mark identify the importance of the customer, and make it a big part of their business philosophy. “We form an emotional attachment with our customers,” she says, “and we rely heavily on word of mouth”. The park has pickup regular tourism awards, as well as the QLD #1 Must Do award in 2009 and the Telstra Business Award. “The business award was very special for us, because it validated our ability to successfully run a business, not just manage a tourist attraction,” says Judy. Paronella Park was the dream they were searching for, and so the dream continues.

1671 Japoonvale Rd (Old Bruce Highway) Mena Creek, QLD 4871 | (07) 4065 0000 | www.paronellapark.com.au

CairnsLife 26 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

SUCCEEDING IN A MAN’S WORLD

Elaine

bertoncini

WORDS BY SUZY GRINTER PHOTO BY MINORI UEDA

“There are very few female bosses in the Australian trucking industry “ A hot summer’s day during peak season will see Elaine Bertoncini join her team, packing cartons and assisting with moving an entire household in shorts and t-shirt. It’s a far cry from the corporate, city environment of her early career in bookkeeping.

Elaine came to Australia in her early twenties to visit family and with a view to transferring her job to Sydney. Expecting sunshine and blue skies, she arrived midwinter to be met by freezing temperatures. Disappointed, Elaine travelled north to stay with friends in Mossman, something of a culture shock after the city life of Birmingham, UK. Finding a casual job at Coral Coaches, Elaine met her husband to be, and her future was sealed.

“Three years later, Stephen was working as a mechanic at Coral Coaches and needed to earn a little extra cash for a trip to take the kids to meet their English

grandparents. He decided to start a furniture removal business and after borrowing a small truck from his Dad’s mower business, buying a few removal blankets and distributing some cheap business cards, Mossman Easy Movers was born,” says Elaine From one small truck serving the local population of Port Douglas and surrounds, the business quickly grew as it took on a regular delivery service from the major furniture stores of Cairns.

Port Douglas was a growing tourist destination and identifying an opportunity to expand, another truck was purchased to commence weekly interstate removals.

“Our first truck, nicknamed Betsy, had no air conditioning and left a lot to be desired, but 21 years later, we now have a fleet of well maintained, reliable vehicles and storage facilities. We became accredited with Queensland Government and Toll Transitions, and our business took off.

Reflecting the growth of the business throughout the region,

Mossman Easy Movers was abbreviated to M.E.M. and finally registered as M.E.M. Removals and Storage in 2000.

“

OUR FOCUS HAS A N D A L W AY S W I L L B E TO LOOK AFTER THE LOCALS, AND OUR STRONG CUSTOMER SERVICE ETHIC, SHARED BY ALL OUR TEAM, HAS SEEN US CONTINUE TO GROW AND P R O S P E R ” S AY S E L A I N E .

“It’s been tough being a woman in this business. There’s very few female bosses in the trucking industry in Australia, traditionally a male domain. At the start, Stephen handled operations, and I managed the administration side of the business. In 2009, Stephen was pulled away to help in another family business and I really had to step up to the challenge of running MEM. But we have a great team and we all look after one another.

“I have an HR licence, and a forklift licence. I don’t drive the trucks, but I can,” says Elaine.

218 Spence St, Bungalow QLD 4870 | 1800 003 838 | www.memremovalsandstorage.com.au

CairnsLife 27 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Nardine

LAW WITH A DIFFERENCE

collier

W OR DS BY BRIDEY ZELL

Nardine Collier may be new to Cairns, however, in a short time she has achieved many things. She moved to Cairns from Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, where she ran a successful law practice for 20 years. Her choice to move was in order to follow her heart. “I had been in a long- distance relationship for some time, and it was quite challenging for both of us,” Nardine says, “so I decided to make the move to Cairns so we could be together properly.” She arrived in Cairns in February 2016. After working from home for a short time, Nardine went on to set up three businesses at her Edgehill office at the start of 2017 Collier Lawyers, Cairns Mediations and Workplace Legal Solutions.

Collier Lawyers specialises in all aspects of family law, as well as wills and estates.

Completing a law degree at Brisbane University in Darwin (which is now known as Charles Darwin University), Nardine went on to become an accredited family law specialist through the Queensland Law Society in 1998, and a Masters of Applied Law (Family Law) at the Sydney College of Law. She is a nationally Accredited family law arbitrator, and an Independent Childrens Lawyer.

In relation to mediation, Nardine is a Nationally Accredited mediator, a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, and is on the panel of mediators for a number of national mediation firms, courts, and the Legal Aid Commissions

P H O TO B Y P H O TO H O L I C S T U D IO

in both the NT and QLD. Cairns Mediations offers mediation in relation to all disputes and particularly Family Law. Workplace Legal Solutions is a mediation service for workplace disputes, and also offers other services to Employers such as assisting with policies and procedures with a view to preventing workplace conflict.

Nardine also continues to sit on the Board of the Health Service in Alice Springs, a role which she has been in for a number of years; is the Deputy President of the Racing Tribunal NT and sessional member of the NT Courts and Tribunals.

Collier Lawyers operates quite differently to many law firms. “We try to be a bit more affordable in order to be able to open our services up to more people,” says Nardine, “We offer different payment options, fees can be paid instalments, and we ensure our clients know the fees that will be involved before they decide whether or not they will proceed with us. Importantly, our focus is on settlement with court as the very last option.” Nardine has also taken steps to be able to offer her services to those who might not be able to afford legal representation, by offering the Women’s Legal Centre in Cairns a free legal advice service for their clients, after hearing that the service is facing a loss of funding. Nardine says, “these services are essential for women in the Cairns community, and I’m proud to be

involved with the centre.” She also takes on Legal Aid clients.

Nardine admits that maintaining a work life balance can be challenging.

“

I’M WORKING HARDER THAN I EVER H AV E B E F O R E ! ” S H E S AY S .

“Being the only specialist family lawyer in Alice Springs meant that running a law firm there was a lot easier – I never had to do much marketing or advertising, clients came to you by word of mouth. It has been challenging in Cairns trying to establish a firm when there are already a number of very good family law firms, but family lawyers here have been very friendly and helpful. “Despite the challenges, Nardine loves the lifestyle in Cairns and says she is still amazed to be living in such a beautiful place. She tries to keep her weekends free, to spend time with family, as between them there are 4 teenage children at home. She enjoys a wide range of hobbies, especially health and fitness, walking, as well as cooking (and eating!), going to concerts, violin and recently, lawn bowls. “My partner is a District lawn bowler, so it’s something we can do together, even if I am hopeless. “Nardine laughs.

Suite 1/132 Collins Ave, Cairns City QLD 4870 | (07) 4214 5666 | www.collierlawyers.com.au

CairnsLife 28 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

RISING STAR IN REAL ESTATE NEVER SAY NEVER

WORDS BY KIMBERLEY VLASIC PHOTO BY MINORI UEDA

Karen

stabile

Franca forde

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON PHOTO BY S I LV I A M O G O R O V I C H

KAREN Stabile is making her mark on the male-dominated world of commercial property.

Since joining Colliers International Cairns two years ago, she has handled some of the biggest leasing deals on the market and achieved several high-profile sales, including the last waterfront shop at Harbour Lights, which fetched well over seven figures.

Karen started her career in Sydney, where she headed a commercial property division and managed more than $300 million worth of assets.

“I worked for a gentleman called Jeremy Alpe as his executive assistant for many years,” she says.

“They were into large residential off the plan sales and I was exposed to some very capable operators who inspired me to make this a real career.

“

I LIKE T H E FA S T PA C E , M AT C H I N G P E O P L E T O P R O P E R T Y, WHETHER IT IS COMMERCIAL, R E TA I L O R

INDUSTRIAL, AND T H E S AT I S FA C T I O N T H AT I T B R I N G S ALONG WITH ITS FINANCIAL R E WA R D S . ”

Franca Forde, owner of Staffing Solution, one of the longeststanding and most-respected recruitment agencies in Cairns for the last 28 years, is one very busy lady.

Karen prides herself on her professionalism and the high level of service she offers both her customers and clients.

Her business operates 365 days a year, her phone is on 24 hours a day and her passion is unparalleled. She started her recruitment agency in 1989 with one office in Cairns and has since expanded throughout the state.

She looks up to Colliers International Cairns managing director Stacey Quaid.

“Not only is he a wealth of knowledge, I also admire his transparency and his enthusiasm for the industry,” she says.

“Stacey is a quiet achiever who consistently produces outstanding results and is a leader in the field.”

Karen is keen to see other women excel in the industry.

“As one of the few women in Cairns that sells, leases and manages commercial properties, I want to mentor other women to do the same,” she says.

“It’s an amazing career path and I would highly recommend it.”

35 Lake St, Cairns City QLD 4870 0412 626 397 | 4050 1461 | www.colliers.com.au

She now heads up nine other Queensland offices in Port Douglas, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa, Darwin, Alice Springs, Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast.

“I have Superheroes working for me,” she joked.

Her fun sense of humour and friendly disposition help her and her dedicated team of specialists deal with the hectic day-to-day running of the highly sought-after business. But it’s her extensive knowledge and her long-standing experience in the industry that makes Staffing Solutions one of the city’s recruitment agencies of choice.

With 50 years’ experience across the hospitality and recruitment industries, Franca knows exactly what employers and employees are looking for, and she has developed the magic touch in aligning the right staff with the right business. The proof is actually in the pudding.

“I have to say that Staffing Solution’s secret to success is my staff,” she said. “If you haven’t got great staff you’re nothing, and I’ve got great staff. “ Her advice to those who want to embark on their own business is straightforward.

“Never be scared and never say you can’t,” she said.

“

NEVER USE THE WORD ‘CAN’T’ B E C A U S E , R E A L L Y, YOU CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING.”

35 Grafton Street, Cairns city Ph: 4031 5000 | www.staffingsolution.com.au

CairnsLife 29 Magazine

LIFE Inspirational Women in Business

Christine vincent

“

I LOVE WORKING AT MCDONALDS AS IT FEELS LIKE F A M I LY ”

Christine Vincent is fortunate to have lead a career marked by continuous achievement. The mother of two, who started out as a hairdresser in Kingaroy is now the successful owner operator of six Cairns McDonalds restaurants. “I am no stranger to hard work,” says Christine, “It’s all about life presenting opportunities, they are everywhere. When you see an opportunity it’s the choice you alone can make to either grab it and run with it or leave it.”

After completing hairdressing and teaching at TAFE, Christine then opened her own salon, which was to become the leading salon in Kingaroy. “This experience taught me so much,” Christine recalls.

An opportunity was to present itself, something entirely different, in the form of a Wendy’s Supa Sundaes franchise. She jumped at the chance.

Within six months, a McDonalds franchise was advertised in the paper, and again, Christine seized the opportunity. This required nine months of training in Brisbane, which was three hours away.

“This was a huge obstacle in my career.

I lived away from my family for nine months, working six days a week and travelling back to them on the seventh day,” says Christine, “my kids are proud of what I did.”

www.mcdonalds.com.au

LEADER OF THE PACK

WO R D S B Y B R I D E Y Z EL L P H O TO B Y M I N O R I U E D A

Following the training, Christine finally opened the doors of the Kingaroy restaurant, employing 85 staff members. The restaurant went on to win the Queensland ‘Outstanding Store Award’, as well as an Australia wide ‘Employee Relations Award’.

Another opportunity saw Christine relocate to Tasmania to purchase a larger restaurant. “I had built up my confidence and experience in Kingaroy, and decided to just go for it”. The next 10 years saw Christine purchase two more stores, represent McDonalds as a torchbearer in the Olympics, and then purchase four McDonalds restaurants in Cairns.

Christine credits much of her success to her team, “without them all both individually and united as a team I would not be where I am today.”

Some career highlights have included; becoming a finalist in the Telstra Business Woman of the Year in 2002, a regional winner and State finalist for the QLD Training Awards ‘School based trainee of the year’ in 2015, and an FNQ finalist in the QLD Training Awards ‘Large Employer of the Year ’in 2016.

Christine aspires to being the best employer, partner, mother and grandmother that she can be. In order to do that, life needs to be balanced.

“It’s all about finding the balance that is right for you,” she says, “along with being a business woman, I feel it’s also important that I make time to relax and ground myself, and spend quality time with my partner, family & friends.

I try to stay fit as well”.

Christine graciously attributes her success to the success of her team, which consists of a number of inspirational women (and men). “It has motivated me to be the best leader that I can be and to keep my people green, growing, and empowered. My favourite saying is ‘there is no I in the word team’, and my team is the best!”

Christine’s team of amazing women include the following.

Kristy Tippet began her career at McDonalds in high school, working her way through the ranks to become General Manager. “I love working at McDonalds as it feels like family”, she says. Jennifer Brislan supervises the Edmonton, Gordonvale and Innisfail stores, and has been a part of McDonalds since she was 15 years

PO Box 6965. Cairns. QLD. 4870 | 07 4031 0292

CairnsLife 31 Magazine

old. Mel Pickrill is Retail Supervisor and manages the Cairns Central store and began working with McDonalds at the age of 15. “I hope to continue my career with McDonalds as the opportunities are endless,” she says.

Cheryl-Lee Stumer is the People Manager and RM of the Gordonvale restaurant, and valued member of the team. Hayley McDowell, the restaurant Manager of McDonalds Cairns Esplanade, has also been with the organisation since high-school.

She left the workforce to raise her four children, returning to McDonalds two years ago. “I am grateful for every opportunity that is offered to me,” says Hayley. Woree store manager, Sarah Ghensi, is another team member who has worked through the ranks within the organisation. She loves the opportunities that have arisen during her time at McDonalds.

Christine’s administrative team consists of Kellie Jensen, Amanda O’Day (both have previously been restaurant managers), and Ellen Porta (Marketing Co-Ordinator). She would also like to acknowledge Brad Carpenter and Justin Andrew, both are Restaurant Managers and truly valued male members of her team.

LIFE Eat, stay, play

Live @ the Casino

Lisa HUNT M AY 4 - 7 , 1 1 - 1 4

Disco, Soul & Motown

the way it should sound!

35 - 41 Wharf Street Cairns www.reefcasino.com.au CairnsLife 32 Magazine

LIFE Eat, stay, play

L I V E

A T

T H E

C A S I N O

–

B A R 3 6

–

L I V E

L O U N G E

THE REEF HOTEL CASINO presents

Lisa Hunt

Soulstress

FOR TWO MASSIVE WEEKS

RESIDENCY – 4-7 MAY & 11-14 MAY 2017

In a first for The Reef Hotel Casino, the soulful diva Lisa Hunt is undertaking a two-week residency at BAR36 in May. For all those music lovers who have missed the Lisa Hunt experience during her previous visits to Cairns, or who just couldn’t get enough of this impressive songstress, now there is no excuse not to get your party shoes on for a night or three!

Lisa Hunt is something of an honourary local to the Far North, having made her annual pilgrimage for one to three nights worth of shows at The Reef Hotel Casino for almost a decade.

Never before has she undertaken a permanent residency and her fortnight worth of shows at BAR36 are guaranteed to not only pack out the house, but also be unforgettable.

Kicking off the weekend early, Lisa will get the party started each week from Thursday, ramping it up with disco, soul and Motown on Friday and Saturday night. Sundays kick it old skool, starting early and getting into a bit of gospel – as every good Sunday should – the perfect end to the week and an ideal Sunday session.

With a repetoire that includes hits from the lines of Aretha Franklin,

The Jacksons, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, as well as a swag of Motwon greats, so its not suprising that the upcoming nights in Cairns are highly anticiapted by music fans. Lisa’s vibrancy as an artist has seen her trek the globe and perform at some of the most coveted venues and festivals in Australia. Starting the early days of her career in the great African American gospel church tradition in New York, Lisa discovered the power of soulful singing and has gone on to share the stage with some of the world’s greats.

She has an enviable list of admirers, from Eric Clapton, Dionne Warwick, Brian May, Randy Crawford, to Andrea Bocelli – all have been impressed with Lisa’s versatility and immense vocal ability. She’s also performed and toured with the likes of Ronan Keating, Macy Gray, Mousse T, Delores O’Riordan (Cranberries) and Tina Arena.

In Australia, she’s shared the studio with Jimmy Barnes, Diesel, Darren Percival, Jon Stevens and Midnight Oil. Her other international recording credits include sessions with famed producers Jellybean Benitez (Madonna), Toni C (Whitney), Frank Farion (LaBouche) and The Berman Brothers (Amber, Ultra

CairnsLife 33 Magazine

Nate) to name a few. Her vocals can also be heard on several top 10 dance tracks around Europe including being ‘the voice’ of Lovestation (UK), Club X (Germany) and D1 (USA).

Internationally, Lisa has songs on numerous compilation albums. Her debut release, A Little Piece of Magic, was released through record giant Universal/Polydor. She was also on the chart topping Lovestation’s Soulstation CD. Embracing both sides of the spectrum, Lisa also independently released Can You Feel It on an indie label. She has also been credited for her work with American soundtrack compositions for shows such as HBO’s Subway Stories and Goodnight Moon, to name a few.

She’s also appeared as an actress on several off-Broadway musicals such as Dreamgirls and Ballad for Bimshire. In Australia, she’s also put together her own production of The Roots Of My Soul.

Lisa Hunt is the Queen of soul, disco, Motown and gospel and her residency will be one not to miss.

Lisa Hunt’s BAR36 residency runs from 4-7 & 11-14 May 2017.

Entertainment kicks off at 9pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, with an earlier start on Sundays. *** Live at the Casino shows in BAR36 are non- ticketed shows. For more information, please visit www.reefcasino.com.au

N DRAWOF 3RD NE JU M 4P

Purchase any Great Northern product at Cazalys to go into the draw to win a Mars Vanguard Camper Trailer.* Valued at over $10,000.

Simply place your entry into the specially marked barrel and be here at the draw to win *T&C APPLY: Price includes Mars Vanguard hard floor camper trailer, on road costs, bedding, stove top and gas bottle

For more information see reception www.cazalys.com.au

LIFE Eat, stay, play @JackleysBakehouse

FOR ALL OCCASIONS

OP E

N

P. 4036 0694 Mt Sheridan Plaza e@bigpond.com E. jackleysbakehous

7D AY S

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

CLICK & BUY ONLINE TODAY! CairnsLife 35 Magazine

JOIN US AT THE JACK FOR THE SOCIAL FUNCTIONS

LIFE Eat, stay, play

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2017 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games 25-28 May Various locations throughout Cairns and on Atherton Tablelands

Cairns Airport Adventure Festival As the temperature cools across the tropics, Cairns’ sporting calendar is just heating up.

A feast of sporting action will be served up to the city across from late May, ranging from of the colourful Great Barrier Masters Games through to triathlon and a duo of football codes.

Mayor Bob Manning said Cairns was in for one of its biggest winter of sport to date, cementing the city’s reputation as the north’s sporting capital.

“Each year, our sporting event calendar is getting more congested as organisers view our city as an ideal venue,” Cr Manning said.

Footy fans will be spoilt, with Barlow Park to host an NRL clash between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the North Queensland Cowboys on 16 July; and Cazalys to host the reigning premiers Western Bulldogs and Gold Coast Suns in an AFL fixture the following weekend on July 22.

4-12 June

Cr Manning said sports event tourism had become a stand-alone industry and one that Cairns was embracing to its full potential.

16-18 June

“Events tourism is growing, and our region has positioned itself perfectly to capture the market in the participation sport category,” Cr Manning said.

“

Approximately 2000 masters-aged sportsmen and women, officials and supporters The Great Barrier Reef Masters Games

People want to come to Cairns to compete. It’s an attractive destination for sports event organisers.

Hot on the heels of the Masters Games, the next instalment of the Cairns Airport Adventure Festival hits our shores June 4-13, with more than 7000 athletes expected to participate in eight events across nine days.

“Our winter climate is ideal for most sports; plus we have the facilities, the scenery, the accommodation, the attractions and the nightlife to back it up.

The marquee event – IRONMAN Cairns – has taken on extra significance after it gained the hosting rights for the Asia Pacific Ironman Championships.

“Major international televised events such IRONMAN promote Cairns on a global stage, supporting our tourism sector, supporting jobs and fostering community pride.

“The Cairns event is a direct stepping stone to the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii,” Cr Manning said.

“At a local event, the opportunity for residents to see world-class sporting events up close in their own backyard helps to encourage participation in sport, an active lifestyle and the opportunity to follow their own sporting dreams.”

The 2017 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games kicks off the peak sporting event season when it returns to Cairns for its third appearance from May 25-28.

“We really will be hosting the best of the best in world triathlon.”

But that is just the start of the winter sporting line-up.

The PGA Cairns Classic at Paradise Palms, featuring the best PGA professionals from across Australia and New Zealand playing for $50,000 prizemoney at the Tropical North’s most iconic golf course, heads our way 16-18 June.

Tickets are now on sale for both the NRL and AFL fixtures in July. Tickets are also available for the Mountain Bike World Championships, September ???? and Rugby League World Cup in October and November. For more details and ticketing information head to Council’s website, cairns.qld.gov.au and follow the What’s On link.

CairnsLife 37 Magazine

Cairns and Port Douglas

PGA Cairns Classic

Paradise Palms, Kewarra Beach

NRL – South Sydney Rabbitohs v North Queensland Cowboys 16 July Barlow Park, Cairns

AFL – Western Bulldogs v Gold Coast Suns 22 July Cazalys Stadium, Cairns

2017 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships 5-10 September Smithfield Conservation Park (James Cook University)

Cairns Tennis International Protour 9-17 October 2017 Cairns International Tennis Centre

Rugby League World Cup 29 October (Double header) 11 November Barlow Park, Cairns

LIFE Eat, stay, play

WHAT’S ON IN CAIRNS B

R O

U

G

H

T

T O

Y O

U

B

Y

Ticketing specialist for Cairns and FNQ

Diamonds Found in Dreams

Cairns Children’s Festival

Frank Woodley, Noodlenut

21 May

A show for kids Cairns Children’s Festival

This delightful new collaboration between Koah based Dream State Entertainment and young sister/ brother act, Diamond Duo, features multi award winning artists and is perfect for the whole family.

Now’s your chance to introduce little comedy fans to Australia’s most visually compelling comedian in his natural habitat, on stage, performing for the pure joy of it – for kids.

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

21 May

Classical Sunset Series

Strassman’s “iTedE”

21 May

26 & 27 May

In the first Classical Sunset Concert for 2017 Cairns’ own chamber music ensemble the North Queensland Chamber Players will be joined by two popular guest performers: Joanne Wright (soprano) and Fiona Hamill (clarinet).

It’s about Chucking time!

Strassman returns with a brand new show, an evening of side-splitting comedy and riotous antics from Ted E. Bare and the malicious Chuck Wood.

VENUE: Cairns Colonial Club Resort

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

Rainbow Vomit

Sydney Writers’ Festival 2017

26 & 27 May

Enter a space of tangled imagination; where light and sound collide in a familiar yet distant world. Creatures from afar morph within the shadows to navigate an ever-changing landscape of bewilderment and wonder.

27 May Live from Sydney Writers’ Festival, Tanks presents two important conversations: writer Hisham Matar discussing his memoir The Return, and some bookish banter from Annabel Crabb and Leigh Sales.

VENUE: Centre of Contemporary Arts

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

Mr Stink

Tanks Round Cinema: Gimme Danger

31 May

31 May

It all starts when Chloe, just about the loneliest girl in the world, makes friends with Mr Stink, the local tramp. Sure he smells a bit, but he’s the only person who’s ever been nice to her. So, when Mr Stink needs a place to stay, Chloe decides to hide him in the garden shed.

From award winning Director Jim Jarmusch, comes an in-depth look at one of the greatest rock-n-roll bands of all time, The Stooges, whose powerful and aggressive style blew a crater in the musical landscape of the late 1960s.

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

VENUE: Tanks Arts Centre

To find out about all shows on sale, ticket prices or further details contact TicketLINK All tickets sold through

- ticketlink.com.au

1300 855 835

Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm - Council’s Customer Service Centre, 119- 145 Spence Street, Cairns Sat 8.30am - 1pm - Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre, 64 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill

CairnsLife 38 Magazine

LIFE Eat, stay, play

ARTS TaNKsCENTRE

EMIE R ROUSSEL TRIO Having taken the Canadian and world jazz music scene by storm, the critically acclaimed award-winning trio Emie R Roussel have a strong message with their music: to touch people through a personal, thoughtful and coherent musical proposition.

And that they do well, very well.

The trio comprise of a talented mix of successful jazz musicians founded by pianist Emie R Roussel, accompanied by bassist Nicolas Bédard and drummer Dominic Cloutier.

EMIE R ROUSSEL TRIO & ESTAMPA JAZZ UP NORTH 2017 FRIDAY 2 JUNE An unstoppable force in the Canadian jazz scene, the Emie R Roussel trio delivers creative and captivating jazz with passion and an undeniable chemistry.

Performing across four continents, these aficionados of their genre are winning admiration around the globe and are on their way to Cairns.

Founded by Emie in 2010, the trio brings together a blend of polished influences in pianist Emie R Roussel, bassist Nicolas Bédard and drummer Dominic Cloutier.

Theirs is a bold style combining swing with the “kind of urgency and energy that sets them apart. Passion and freshness take the lead.” (Jazz News, France) Since releasing their 3rd album, award winning Quantum, this dynamic group have received rave reviews, hitting the top of the iTunes charts. Critics describing Quantum as “inventive jazz, bright and elegant, as sophisticated as it is colourful.” (Ici Musique, Canada)

Originally from the South Shore of Montreal (Quebec, Canada), Emie Rioux-Roussel discovered the world of music through her parents, themselves musicians and singers, and began studying classical piano at the age of 5. At 16 Emie decided to follow her instincts and her love of improvisation and begin studying jazz with her father, jazz pianist Martin Roussel. Completing her diploma in jazz piano interpretation, Emie completed her Bachelor’s degree a year after the Emie R Roussel Trio was formed.

In their seemingly short seven year inception, the Emie R Roussel Trio have received critical acclaim and admiration for their work, having experienced a dizzying ascent since their inception in 2010. The trio’s third and most recent album Quantum picked up a Félix Award at l’ADISQ for the 2015 jazz album of the year. Their fourth album, due out later this year, was spurred on by the success of a crowdfunding campaign, allowing the trio’s musical identity to shine through.

“All the shared moments during concerts and tours and each member’s creativity meet at the crossroads of our respective paths on our new album.”

Such success has led the trio on numerous world tours, playing jazz and music festivals all over Europe, Asia, and the US, however it was their 2014 tour of Australia and New Zealand, which left a particularly strong impression; “Australia will always have a special place in our hearts as this was our first international tour,” Emie says.

“This will be our first time to Cairns and we have heard much about the Great Barrier Reef.”

The trio’s sound is one of polished perfection with elements of R&B, classical and sometimes even pop or rock influences. John Fenton from JazzLocal32 in New Zealand sums up such a sound perfectly:

This invigorating evening of jazz will launch with Australian jazz trio Estampa, who will evoke visions of Parisian laneways, South American sensuality and the unbridled joy of jazz in an energetic and internationally-inspired performance.

“Their music has a pulse and a vibe which draws on European classical music traditions and the deep earthy Jazz grooves that arose from the American continent. Emie’s compositions are well thought out and adventurous; taking sudden twists and turns, but never losing sight of momentum and the inner logic. The segments are pieces of a puzzle placed by very skilful hands.”

COST: $36.75 / $31.50 (CONC) inc b/fee (PG) VENUE: Tank 5 - fully seated SHOW STARTS: 7:30pm SUPPORT: Estampa

The trio will come to Cairns on June 2 as part of the 2017 Jazz Up North music series and while they haven’t heard of the Tanks Arts Centre, they sure are excited about the cultural references the site holds.

All tickets sold through P: 1300 855 835 W: ticketlink.com.au

“By its historical origins, playing jazz in this magnificent and electric venue will be a great experience,” Emie proclaims.

MUSIC • ARTS • COMMUNITY • EVENTS • CULTURE

tanksartscentre.com

With Australian jazz trio Estampa to warm up the crowd with their energetic and Bossa Nova South American sounds, don’t miss out on this stunning night of jazz when the Emie R Roussel Trio play the Tanks Arts Centre on Friday 2 June 2017. Tickets on sale now through ticketLINK. For more information, visit www.tanksartscentre.com

CairnsLife 39 Magazine

LIFE Eat, stay, play

Give Mum the full treatment this Mother’s Day.

We’re offing 25% off this Mother’s Day because we can. And we have the perfect treatment - and place - to indulge her. The Alamanda Spa by Lancemore is an ethereal escape in an improbably beautiful location. From a Mother’s Spa Escape Package for those in the know to a Pre-natal Massage for the soon to be, our expert therapists will refresh, revive and rejuvenate. So give Mum a gift she’ll love this Mother’s Day. Give her the full treatment.

For more information and to book your treatment, contact the Alamanda Spa by Lancemore on 4059 5529 or email palmcovespa@lancemore.com.au and quote ALPLOCAL. Terms & Conditions Apply. The Mother’s Day special is only available for select treatments during the month of May; Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays); and subject to availability.

TaNKs ARTS CENTRE

CAIRNS CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL - SUNDAY 21 MAY

THE IDEA OF NORTH

FRANK WOODLEY NOODLENUT

DIAMONDS MR STINK FOUND IN DREAMS THEATRE FOR CHILDREN

FRIDAY 12 MAY

SUNDAY 21 MAY

SUNDAY 21 MAY

Winner of two ARIA awards, contemporary a cappella quartet, The Idea of North (or TION), boast an evoking repertoire steeped in jazz yet easily crossing over into pop, gospel, folk and comedy.

Wonderful nonsense that has children Unbelievable stunts, hilarious slapstick bursting with joy! Fans have been asking for it comedy and a giant unicycle! for years. Now, the wait is over…

COST: $36.75 / $31.50 (Conc) inc b/fee (PG) TIME: 7.30pm VENUE: Tank 5 - fully seated

A SHOW FOR KIDS (50 MINS)

CIRCUS / FANTASY (45 MINS)

COST: $15.75 (ONE PRICE) inc b/fee | 0-3 Free (on parents lap only) (G) VENUE: Tank 5 - fully seated TIME: 9.30am | 11.30am | 2.00pm

tanksartscentre.com

WEDNESDAY 31 MAY

COST: $15.75 (ONE PRICE) | Family (2 Ad + 2 Ch) $47 inc b/fee (G) VENUE: Tank 3 TIME: 9.30am | 11.30am | 1.30pm

All tickets sold through

David Walliams’ award-winning book comes to life on stage for children 6-12… and their adults!

COST: All tickets $17 + $0.85 b/fee | Group (10+) $13 each + $0.65 b/fee per ticket. (G) SHOW STARTS: 10am, 1pm & 6pm VENUE: Tank 3 - fully seated

ticketlink.com.au

1300 855 835

Ticketlink Fee: Events announced after Dec 6 2016 are advertised including booking fee of 5% capped at $2.

CairnsLife 40 Magazine

LIFE Eat, stay, play

Wine, Dine and Unwind.

SPECIAL LOCALS OFFER OF

$

249 p/n

including full hot and cold breakfast for two

reservations@thalabeach.com.au

ph: 07 4098 5700

www.thalabeach.com.au

Private Road, 5078 Captain Cook Highway, Oak Beach, Port Douglas, QLD 4877. 45 minutes north of Cairns - 15 minutes south of Port Douglas

THE LAST 20 YEARS 38 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD • 4870 (07) 4031 5899 • perrottasatg.com CairnsLife 41 Magazine

Book & Enquire Online: http://thecottonclubcairns.com.au/ or email: functions@thewoolshed.com.au 24 Shields St. • (07) 4031 6304 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/CottonClubCairns Follow us on Instagram @thecottonclub

LIFE Eat, stay, play

PHONE: 4031 3033 Ya y a ' s l a r g e a i r co nd i ti o ne d sp ac e i nsi d e and balcony with views , is als o available for private functions d uri ng the d ay, sui ti ng a range of occas ions , from bus ines s to birthdays !

LEVEL 1 CORNER APLIN ST & ESPLANADE CAIRNS (ABOVE VILLA ROMANA) DINNER EVERY NIGHT FROM 5PM

You never know who you might bump into at Villa...

Modern mediterranean cuisine Breakfast Lunch Dinner Open 7 days a week “Where all the locals meet”

CAIRNS Cnr Esplanade & Aplin Street 4051 9000

CairnsLife 43 Magazine

GO

GIRLS! WORDS BY SUZY GRINTER

IF EVER THERE WAS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR A CORPORATE ENTITY TO JUMP ON A SPONSORSHIP BANDWAGON, HERE IT IS, A FREE KICK IF EVER YOU SAW ONE.

“

Fitness and friendships are focal, but Women’s AFL is also making opportunities for women.”

Women’s AFL in Cairns is growing exponentially, surging ahead in breaking down gender stereotyping in a predominantly male sports domain, with Youth Girls Competition growing by over 300% in 2017.

As the season kicks off this month, 210 youth girls in the Cairns region are participating in AFL, traditionally a male domain.

The AFL Queensland vision for Women’s AFL in the next 4-5 years sees the game growing tremendously. With 15,000 supporters watching the women’s Grand Final at Metricon Stadium in the Gold Coast this year, it would seem this vision is prophetic.

“The women’s season starts here at Cazaly’s on 13 May, coinciding with Mother’s Day, our Pink Footy Round to support breast cancer awareness,” says AFL Marketing and Communications Manager, Jane Clarke.

Round 2 is Stand up against Domestic Violence for women played at AFL Cape York.

Combating domestic violence through education underpins the AFL Cape York ethos, and included in that is teaching respect for women, including in sport, all sport.

Round 8 in July is the Rivalry Round, with 4 teams in the competition, Souths v Centrals at Fretwell Park and Norths v Hawks at Watsons Oval.

“A lot of our youth girls are good enough to play in both the Youth Girls and Women’s competition,

so a lot of girls cross over, good examples being Poppy Boltz and Grace Perry from Centrals at Trinity Beach.

“They are also in the Gold Coast SUNS Academy, which doesn’t have an AFL women’s team, but approached us in their quest to identify talent in the region, providing opportunity for selected individuals to play in exhibition and trial matches on the Gold Coast and undertake development here at Cazalys, a really good opportunity for them to progress in the AFLW space,” says Jane.

Cairns locals, Selena Goodman, Leah Kaslar and Breanna Koenen played in the Brisbane Lions Women’s Team. Tiarna Ernst was also picked up in the draft to play for the Western Bulldogs.

“A friend was coaching young girls of 12-18, and asked them to name their favourite player, expecting they would say someone like Buddy Franklin. He was delighted to see their hero worship focus on female players like Erin Philips and Katie Brennan,” says Jane.

“AFL Queensland (AFLQ) hope to have 65 women’s teams by 2018 across the State, 75 female coaches by 2018, and then youth girls and junior teams – 140. I think we would be close to achieving the latter already.

Centrals Trinity Beach have gone from one youth girls team last year, to two teams this year, and there are many options for girls all over Cairns to get into the expanding sport.

CairnsLife 45 Magazine

“We have a Girls Academy here at Cazaly’s. Anyone can come to a development and skills session and we run them throughout the season,” says Jane.

“Fitness and friendships are focal, but Women’s AFL is also making opportunities for women.”

“One of AFL Cairns’ major partners, Accor Hotels will work with AFLC to identify women among its membership who need jobs. Accor will provide hospitality training culminating in a certificate and a job.

“We’ve just launched a Platinum Rewards Card. Our sponsors have provided incentives in the way of discounts for our AFL community and in turn receive support for their business. It’s our way of thanking both sides,” says Jane.

With the incredible growth of Women’s AFL in Cairns, it’s an uncontested possession opportunity for a visionary sponsor.

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

Lovisa drop hoop earrings $14.95 | Just Jeans skinny neck scarf $14.95 | Myer Tokito tie up top $59.95 | Valleygirl outer coat $59.95 Dotti flare pants $69.95 | Myer Cue leopard bag $189 | Pandora rose dazzling daisy ring $89 | Pandora rose radiant elegance ring $79 | Witchery Francesca boot $249.95 Adairs Home Republic Amherst Rug $299.95 | Adairs Home Republic Poppy Basket $89.95 | Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Mongolian Faux Cushion $59.95 Sportsgirl Gold Star Statement Earring $19.95 | Sheridan (Myer) Hero | Country Road Chelsea Sunglasses $99.95

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

Pandora Magnolia bloom earring studs $59 | Just Jeans circles & orbs necklace set $19.95 | Valleygirl high neck rib top $14.95 Bardot quilted bomber $119.99 | Valleygirl solid skirt $29.95 | Witchery Bijou marble watch $139.95 | Pandora pearlescent hearts of PANDORA band ring $129 Pandora soft pink hearts of PANDORA band ring $129 | Forever New Alexia foldover backpack $54.99 | Forever New Octavia heeled sandals $69.95 Target plain cushion $8 | Dusk Hero | Jeanswest Casey Choker $24.99 | Myer Country Road Janne Throw $199 | Target Scandi Timber clock $25 Forever New Sienna Glitter Phone Case $14.99 | Sportsgirl Ebony floral velvet clutch $39.95

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

Just Jeans marle sweater $49.95 | Tarocash Maverick bomber jacket $149.99 | Angus & Coote Hugo Boss watch $499 Just Jeans M9 panelled blues jean $99.95 | Tarocash Nickolai suede boot $169.99

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

OPSM Ray Ban aviator RB3025 sunglasses $230 | Pandora rose radiant elegance earrings $119 | Bardot Dani tie shirt $79.99 | Myer Tokito coat $119.95 Lovisa tri&bridge 8pk of rings $12.99 | Goldmark 9ct gold 60mm infinity knot oval hook bangle $599 | Prouds the Jewellers 9ct yellow gold fine band $249 Prouds the Jewellers sterling silver knot oval bangle $129 | Sussan slouch pants $89.95 | Forever New Renee tassel bag $44.95 | Witchery Petra point flat $159.90 Adairs Mercer + Reid Photographic Floral Print Peony $107.96 | Sportsgirl 3 Strap Velcro Sneaker $59.95 | Jeanswest Jordan Scarf $39.99 Strangbags Marikai Top Handle Pom Pom Tote $49.99 | Myer Balenciaga Paris EDP 30ml $100

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

FEMALE MODEL: Witchery military cap $49.95 | Cue link and jewel velvet choker $109 | Witchery metal braid choker $49.95 | Forever New Felicity swing tie sleeve blouse $79.99 Myer Piper velvet dress $99.95 | Pandora rings starting from $59 (six silver rings) | Country Road Filipa leather sneaker $99.95 MALE MODEL: Models own t-shirt from Factorie | Just Jeans Jake denim shirt $69.95 | Angus & Coote Hugo Boss watch $499 | Just Jeans stretch skinny pant $79.95 | Tarocash Nickolai suede boot $169.99

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

S I S T E R F I E L D FA S H I O N B O U T I Q U E

WORDS BY JANIE BARTON

Far North Queensland fashionistas are thrilled to learn that a fabulous new fashion boutique featuring a large selection of top Australian designers is opening mid May in Port Douglas.

Sisterfield, on vibrant Macrossan Street, will feature a huge range of exclusive mid to high-end brands from casual t-shirts and shorts, jeans, feminie skirts and day wear all the way through to elegant and sophisticated evening wear.

The unique boutique will include sought-after Australian designers on the forefront of fashion such as Casa Amuk, Sass and Bide, Asilio, Ministry of Style, Alpha be, Mischa, Mossman and PE Nation, to name just a few.

Every gorgeous outfit needs to be complimented with the right piece of jewellery, and lovers of fashion will find sensational Elle Louise designs along with a range of well-loved shoe styles from sexy stiletto heels to cute flats and edgy platform shoes from popular designers such as Alias Mae and Jaggar, among others. It will also be stocking the well-loved Natalie Alamein Mimatch and Safarian

sandals, perfectly suited for our tropical lifestyle.

really excited to have their designs available in Far North Queensland.”

With the racing calendar about to start in Far North Queensland, racegoers and Fashions on the Field entrants will love the stunning millinery pieces, exquisite race-day styles as well as fulllength gowns for special occasions.

She currently has 20 suppliers and plans to introduce a men’s range in the near future. She will stock quality t-shirts for men when she opens, but plans to extend that range to include denim, cargos and sweaters among other men’s clothing.

Even better news for locals is the fact that locals get 5 per cent discount on all purchases.

The shop is the brainchild of Jessime Vereker, who has a Cert 4 in Dressmaking and Design and who has always had a passion for fashion.

embraced fashion “myI’vewhole life and saw a

niche for both edgy and sophisticated fashion in the region, so I thought I’d put all my favourite brands together in one store

”

“There are not a lot of top brands up here, and the response from my suppliers has been fantastic. They’re CairnsLife 51 Magazine

The shop will be open 10an to 6pm Mondays to Saturdays and 10am to 5pm Sundays and everything that Jessime stocks will also be available through her online store via her website, which will be launched when the shop opens. In the meantime, keep an eye on Sisterfield Port Douglas on Facebook and Instragram for regular updates.

“I’m really excited about providing Far North Queensland with a unique shopping experience,” Jessime added.

“I think the women in the region are going to absolutely love it.”

Sisterfield Fashion Boutique 3/6 Macrossan Street, Port Douglas Ph: 0421 114 381

TREND REPORT

AW 17

A COLLECTION OF KEY PRINT AND COLOUR TRENDS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER 2017

BY KRYSTLE TOKUNAI (TOKUNAI HAIR)

BLACK IS BACK

(YAY!! FOR US HAIRDRESSERS!)

FASHION } KEYWORDS SOLID BALAYAGE IS OUT!!!

SOFT ROOTY BLENDS ARE IN;

COLOUR } KEYWORDS LIVED IN COLOUR ROOTY BLONDES BLENDED MELTS SOFT PASTELS

HE IS HERE TO STAY!!!!

HAIRCUTS } KEYWORDS LONG TEXTURED/CHEEK BANGS NATURAL TEXTURE LIVED IN HAIR

PASTELS VS BOLD BLUE HUES

COPPER HUES

HINTS OF GOLD

FASHION } HAIR

MEET BOB!!!

LOBS

PRINTS

TOKUNAI HAIR CNR MULGRAVE RD & LYONS ST OPP DFO WESTCOURT, CAIRNS 4041 4411 WWW.TOKUNAIHAIR.COM TOKUNAIHAIR@AANET.COM.AU

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

GENUINE MEDICAL GRADE LASER

Boutique specialised laser hair removal clinic in Cairns

FULL BACK $150 HALF LEGS $75

UNDERARMS $50 BIKINI $30 LIP $30

7 Lago Crest, Mount Sheridan QLD 4868

0424 077 720 w w w. b e l l a d o n n a c a i r n s . c o m . a u

CairnsLife 54 Magazine

Sunny Eclipse Dress in Goa

by Sajeela Jamie for Wild Sugar Made in Cairns located at the Pier P: 07 4041 6960 M: 0431 156 469 www.wildsugar.fashion

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

IN CELEBRATION OF MOTHER’S DAY

LIFE Fashion & Beauty

The Magical Month of May is a celebration for all Mothers. Mother’s Day should be a time for Reflection, Adoration and Appreciation for the immense Long career of Parenting with Merits Awarded for: Emotional Balancing, Hormonal Imbalances, Body Changing, Life Changing, Elating, Tiring, Painful, Spiritual, Exhausting, Educational, Unconditional Love, Mental Anguish, Satisfying, Rewarding, Therapy, Nutritional expertise, Nurse, Cook, Cleaner, P.A, School Aid, Tuck Shop Assistant, Personal Sport Fan Club, Taxi Driver, Life Coaching, Mathematician, Liaison Officer and all round Entrepreneur. This is a 24/7 job but Most Mothers also manage to juggle a second career to contribute to the household or to start the College & Dental Fund.

So with this in mind, on this Special Day, Mother’s Day, we wanted to celebrate by offering a Fabulous Mummy Make-Over to a Very Deserving Mum Bridey Zell & Baby Miranda.

For Bridey as a Busy Mum of 3. Kobi 11yrs, Tyler 10yrs and Little Miranda 5mths, she has very little time for herself and with her upcoming Wedding in June it was time for a little Bridey time, but in true Mother Style Little Miranda was still the main attraction.

With Bridey we wanted to shape and De-Bulk the Hair to achieve more Volume & Movement. For Colour Bridey’sHair was saturated with Dark Colour almost Black with untouched regrowth and some unwanted tones from previous work, for us to correct.

We achieved a Beautiful Ombre’ with touching up the Roots + smudge effect Then lifted the mid to ends with Warm Copper/Honey/Toffee Hues, then Styled for a Tousled Modern Feel.

With a visit to our Brow & Make-Up Bar our MakeOver is now complete.

Hair, Make-Up & Story By:

Styling: Bambino & Me Locations: Stratford Library “Children’s Section” & LimberLost Nursery, Vines Cafe & My Little Magnolia

All Mothers should take a little time for themselves to be celebrated and loved by their Family’s even if it means sneaking off for a Massage or Make-Over.

LIFE Fashion & Beauty Damian Lamaro - Qualified Hairstylist (away for photo) Aleisha Diessel - 1st Year Hairstylist Chloe Hadley - 2nd Year Hairstylist Stephanie Croatto - Qualified Hairstylist Natalie Liaver - Qualified Hairstylist

Lulubelles races special

Race outfit, one off locally made fascinator by Peggy’s creations and accessory for under $200 Look gorgeous and commentworthy for less than half of the usual price Free styling sessions and satisfaction guaranteed

2/138 Collins Ave Edge Hill 0415 756 383 | www.lulubelles.com.au F lulubellesclothing

MEET THE TEAM

“ ”

W O R D S & P H O T O S B Y S I LV I A M O G O R O V I C H

Wolf & Co is a striking salon in the heart of the Cairns CBD, light and mirror features reflect the quirky and modern decor, with the whitewashed brick walls adding to their unique look.

Today I am Beautiful

Known for their bold and beautiful cuts and colours, the team overflows with creativity and is on the pulse of fresh global trends. The upbeat and experienced stylists can transform your entire look, or you can pop in for their quick blow-wave special for those days when you need the boost that only awesome hair can give you.

The salon also offers some beauty treatments, with a special focus on eye packages which includes lash tinting and your own set of killer brows – you just know that when all the people working in a place have incredible eyebrows then you are in safe and capable hands!

The team are friendly and knowledgeable and are all committed to deliver a new look

CairnsLife 58 Magazine

that you love, as well as giving you an experience that leaves you wanting to book in your next appointment just to come and hang out in the salon. They offer excellent formal packages for hair and makeup, from completely dreamy to cutting edge - the team has just the right balance of experience and enthusiasm to create the perfect look for you!

They also happen to have the best motto ever written: “Yesterday I Was Ugly” but pop into Wolf & Co and you are certain to walk out feeling like “Today I am Beautiful’.

NEW CLIENT SPECIAL 1/2 HEAD OF FOILS, TONER, LADIES CUT & STYLED BLOW-WAVE FOR $100

2/17 Spence Street Cairns CBD (07) 4222 6662 ` wolfandcocairns

LIFE Success on Spence

TAKING THE COMPLEXITY OUT OF IMMIGRATION I M M I G R AT I O N G U RU S What started out of a home office five years ago has evolved into one of Cairns’ most successful migration agencies.

The boutique agency’s experienced migration agents make it their mission to find a solution to individual immigration challenges.

Immigration Gurus assist with all types of visa applications and complex migration issues.

Being able to live, work or study in Australia is a dream for many overseas visitors, and that can become a stressful and uncertain experience when people are faced with the legal and procedural complexities of the Australian visa system.

“Many of our clients who aspire to migrate to Australia do not meet the required criteria,” director Natale Menniti said.

“For those who cannot apply right away, we provide a clear and realistic pathway to achieving their goals.”

The Immigration Gurus have helped thousands of people cut through these complexities and pride themselves on being able to provide their clients with straightforward and hassle-free solutions to achieving their Australian dream.

The Gurus team consists of Cairns locals Natale Menniti, Joshua Ferreira and Jesse O’Hara who are all registered agents with the Australian Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority.

“We all grew up in the area, studied at JCU and have an in-depth understanding of North Queenland’s migration needs,” Natale said.

Jesse is also a Qualified Education Agent Counsellor and focuses on providing international students with advice on the choice of courses, qualifications and career pathway options and opportunities.

“We are a Cairns firm with a wealth of experience that prides itself on providing a direct and personal service,” Natale said.

“Every application is managed in house by one of us. We are always available by phone or to meet in person, and clients’ files will never be assigned to another agent in another city.”

Immigration Gurus MARN 1066082 50 Spence Street, Cairns city Ph: 4051 1142 www.immigrationgurus.com.au

AUSTRALI AN VI SA EXPERTS

www.immigrationgurus.com.au CairnsLife 59 Magazine

LIFE Success on Spence

GOOD GOLLY MISS MOLLY W O R D S & P H O T O S B Y S I LV I A M O G O R O V I C H

In August last year, 2/76 Spence Street was transformed into a haven of light and love, with young businesswoman Holly Alifraco bringing her personal stamp to the world of beauty.

“

Although Holly is not by nature a competitive person, she is passionate about the importance of customer service, and this has become her point of difference – the influx of new clients from office workers in the area, as well as walk-ins, attests to that! The motto at Miss Molly’s is ‘Perfection for You’, and that means something different for each individual. As Holly says, ‘I want people to come back because they loved the way they were treated!’.

I want people to come back because they loved the Holly knew from way they were a young age that treated! she wanted to become a beauty therapist, starting a school based apprenticeship as a teenager in Mareeba. She worked in other salons for 3 and a half years, when encouragement from her sister (who opened her own hair salon in Mareeba, also at age 23) and a desire to, she says ‘Do things my own way!’ led her to open Miss Molly’s Beauty Spot.

With 3 treatment rooms, a tanning room and a nail station in the front room, Holly and her employee Nikki Lude, have plenty of room to grow. Between the two, they offer almost all beauty services, and each therapist has their own specialties. IPL is one of Holly’s specialities and she has invested in a state of the art machine which has been getting her clients fantastic results. They have also just taken on their first work experience student, which seems to be a perfect fit as Holly’s passion for beauty and people make her a fantastic mentor in this industry.

What really sets Miss Molly’s apart is Holly’s emphasis on the personal touch – she is obviously fond of all her clients, and credits her Italian heritage with giving her the self-confidence needed to be able to offer the warmth and friendliness that is an integral part of her business.

”

With an attitude like that, it’s almost certain that she will keep doing what she loves for a very long time. $50 MICRODERMABRASION $20 SPRAYTANS FOR CAIRNSLIFE READERS

JUST MENTION THIS SPECIAL!

Offering a unique price structure according to the stylists experience. With a team consisting of qualified stylists and varied level apprentices, services can be tailored to suit your budget and time requirements.

Ladies HairCuts

From $15.00 (with trainee under supervision) From $30.00 (with qualified) Mens HairCuts From $15.00 (with trainee under supervision) From $25.00 (with qualified) Ombre/Balayage From $130 (short hair , includes toner) Chemical Straightening From $250 Keratin Treatment From $250 Full Head Foils From $70 (with trainee under supervision) Full Head Foils From $100 ( with Qualified) 1/2 Head Foils From $50.00 (with trainee under supervision) 1/2 Head Foils From $75.00 (with qualified) Tint Regrowth From $32.00 (4 week regrowth) Facial waxing and tinting services available

62 Spen ce Str eet, Cai r n s • 4051 3393

2/76 Spence Street Cairns CBD 0402 365 789 ` missmollysbeautyspot

Hours : Monday - Friday, late Night Wednesday .

Saturday by appointment - manager prices ONLY. NO trainee prices available Saturdays

CairnsLife 60 Magazine

LIFE Community

Family Dispute

Resolution

Centacare Cairns provides services that are community driven, easy to access and importantly make a difference in the lives of individuals and families. As a local organisation that has operated in Cairns for more than 30 years, Centacare aims to improve the community in which we live; we know that starts with listening and working together with local people.

Acknowledging that separation and divorce are challenging for all involved, Centacare Cairns has recently introduced Family Dispute Resolution for couples and/or significant others affected by separation and divorce, to assist in decision making about parenting matters.

Family Dispute Resolution can help separating or separated couples reach agreement with the assistance of a trained and neutral third party without having to go to court. A Property Mediation service is also available to assist with this process.

Most importantly, the needs of any children will always be the primary focus of dispute resolution at Centacare. We promote healthy family relationships, help prevent conflict, encourage agreement rather than litigation, and promote the right of children to have meaningful relationships with both parents.

To learn more, or to make an appointment, please call us on (07) 4044 0130 Cost of Services may vary depending on your eligibility.

22 – 34 Aplin Street, Cairns | p: 07 4044 0130 | f: 07 4044 0120

www.centacarecairns.org

CairnsLife 61 Magazine

LIFE Community

AWARD-WINNING INITIATIVE

A HUGE SUCCESS P HOTO BY MINORI UEDA

In 2007, the Mental Health Intervention Project (MHIP) was rolled out in Cairns. The tri-agency partnership between Queensland Health (QHealth), Queensland Police Service and Queensland Ambulance Service aimed to enhance agency cooperation and deliver better outcomes for people impacted by mental illness.

This year marks the 10th year that the project has been operating in Cairns.

Joe Petrucci, Manager of the QHealth Acute Care Team and Chair of the project’s Operational Liaison Committee (OLC), outlined the longterm commitment of each agency.

“The MHIP has had excellent support from each of the partner agencies over the last 10 years. One of the key roles of the OLC to is search for more effective service delivery models and the Cairns Co Responder Team was created in an attempt to achieve this.”

The Co Responder Team concept uses a combination of successful international policing models and consists of a uniformed Police Officer and a Mental Health Clinician from the QHealth Mental Health Acute Care Team working together.

The Co Responder Team has three key roles. Firstly, to respond to calls for service that involves persons who are experiencing a mental illness crisis in the community. Secondly,

to lead the collaboration of a wide range of stakeholders to achieve appropriate and quality outcomes for mental health consumers, and thirdly, to provide the avenue for effective communication between agencies to best support people with mental illness who are in crisis.

The team concept was trialled in 2009 by Senior Sergeant Greg Giles and QHealth Acute Care Team Clinician, Ms Shelley Wallace and at the time, was the only team of its kind in Queensland.

Fast forward to 2017 and the Cairns MHIP Co Responder Team has won awards at a national and state level including the Queensland Government Mental Health Achievement Award (2010), Assistant Commissioner Certificate (2011), Queensland Police Service Lantern Award for Excellence in Policing Operations (2012), Australian Institute of Criminology National Crime Prevention Award (2012) and the Workplace Council Health and Community Services Workforce Innovation Award (2013).

While Ms Wallace remains a key figure in the team today, she is now supported by a skilled group of Acute Care Team Clinicians.

Senior Sergeant Giles has been promoted and now uses his experience to train and support First Response Police Officers in his role as District Duty Officer. In 2012, Senior Constable Angela Evans took on the challenging

LIFE Community

CAIRNS POLICE CO-RESPONDER TEAM

Co Responder Team Police role of managing community safety with consumer welfare. She remains in the role today and her understanding and experience is evident as she explains: “People with mental illness don’t want to come to the attention of Police, mostly they just want help to get well. My role is to help people with mental illness to get the treatment they need and keep the community safe, and I can do that much more effectively working together with a Clinician from the Acute Care Team. We have so many more options when we work together.”

The Co Responder team works closely with a number of Police Officers across the District who perform the role of Police Mental Health Coordinators.

Sergeant Matthew Maloney of Smithfield Police Station is one such coordinator, who along with Senior Sergeant Giles, won Churchill Scholarships to study the international Police response to people with mental illness.

“The service that is delivered by the Cairns MHIP Co Responder Team is better than or equal to every model that I saw on my study tour,” Sergeant Maloney said. “Even international jurisdictions that have more resources available to them could learn from the Co Responder Team.

That is an incredible accolade for Cairns and something that the Cairns community can be very proud of ”.

While promoting the success of the Co Responder Team, Sergeant Maloney collaborated with Centacare Cairns Partners in Recovery initiative and Peta O’Neill to undertake a review of the Cairns MHIP Co Responder Team.

Ms O’Neill was instrumental in bringing stakeholders together whom include Queensland Health, Queensland Ambulance and support from Cairns James Cook University.

“Centacare Cairns were excited to be involved in this evaluation and contribute to growing projects that make a real difference in the lives of people in our community,” said Ms O’Neill.

“The results of the evaluation are clear that the Cairns Co Responder Team is a huge success and Centacare is proud to support the further development of this initiative.”

The MHIP Cairns CoResponder evaluation and review is available at www.centacarecairns. org Any inquiries regarding the review can be directed to Ms O’Neill on 4044 0130.

LIFE Community

Community Speaks CAFNEC Marine Response Team (MRT)

T

he CAFNEC Marine Response Team (MRT) is very excited to announce its latest initiative: the establishment of a Boomerang Bags community in Cairns. What are they? Boomerang Bags involve members of the community coming together to sew fabric bags out of recycled material. The bags are sewn by the community for the community and made available to public in dedicated stands, boxes or hangings. From here shoppers can avoid a plastic bag by freely taking a reusable bag from the stand with the idea that the bag will be returned when they return, hence ‘Boomerang Bag’.

The aim of Boomerang Bags is to start conversations, make friends, up-cycle materials and work towards shifting society’s throw-away mentality to a more sustainable revolution of re-use – one community, needle and thread at a time!

The Boomerang Bags initiative began in Burleigh Heads, Qld and has since spread to over 100 communities across Australia and internationally. This project is progressing in Cairns thanks to a community sustainability grant from Cairns Regional Council and the hard work of Cairns and Far North Environment Centre staff and volunteers.

As the Queensland Government is set to ban single use plastic bags from July 2018 we’re really excited about setting up Boomerang Bags in Cairns in 2017. Having this service available once the plastic bag ban commences will hopefully ease the transition in FNQ.

Get Involved: Cairns sewing bees are first Thursday of the month from 4.30 – 7.30 pm downstairs of Cominos House 27-29 Greenslopes St North Cairns. Head to www.marineteam.org to sign up for the mailing list or email community@cafnec.org.au. Search ‘Boomerang Bags Cairns’ to join the Facebook group

EMAIL

on info@cairnslifemag.com.au to have your community initiative FEATURED HERE!

CairnsLife 64 Magazine

LIFE Community

Renee Cashman A Woman of Inspiration

Renee’s dynamic personality is a major force for good in our community, and she says her intention is “To help build peaceful communities’, which she does beautifully, in a myriad of ways.

As the president and founder of Bee Universal Inc (a not-for-profit organisation), she co-ordinates special community events, such as the Palm Cove Peace Day and Random Acts of Kindness Week. Events like these bring people together in harmony, for a common cause: talking, laughing, even creating human mandalas together - in a word, connecting.

Connection has been a big theme in Renee’s life for the past thirteen years - she is best known in our region as the creator and leading light of independent bi-monthly publication, Connect Magazine, which is distributed throughout Cairns, the Tablelands, Townsville, Port Douglas, Mackay, Rockhampton, along with other coastal and rural communities in North Queensland.

Connect Magazine is a grassroots, holistic magazine delivering inspirational and informative content, with a focus on improved health and well-being. The regular contributors offer insightful knowledge and impart wisdom, the Community Calendar is packed and features a variety of classes and activities. The information is further disseminated through Renee’s live radio program Connect in Harmony on Cairns FM 89.1 every Tuesday between 9 and 10am.

This talented woman has also released Meditation Music CDs including The Cosmic Seed, which was produced with Soul Harmonics, a group she plays with regularly. As a Sound Therapist, she uses a unique array of healing instruments from around the world to help others return to a state of harmony. Meditative sounds change the brain waves from our everyday thinking Beta Waves, down to the healing Alpha and Theta Waves, enabling deep relaxation and healing. She holds regular Sound Meditations with Crystal Singing Bowls and Gongs among others.

Renee Cashman P: 0428 846 799 E: info@connectmagazine.org www.connectmagazine.org

CairnsLife 65 Magazine

" Sound is an effective tool for meditation as it gives the monkey mind something to focus on. "

Renee is a Reiki Master and also runs Two Dragons Healing Arts alongside her husband, Robert McAlpine. They offer classes in Qi Gong, an ancient health system of meditative movements that balances the individual’s Qi (life force energy) for improved health and longevity.

And if that wasn’t enough she’s also a Karate student! Truly an inspirational woman living an incredible life.

W O R D S B Y S I LV I A M O G O R O V I C H PHOTOS BY CHARLOTTE’S PHOTOGRAPHY

t hi s m on th in

BUSINESSLIFE HOW TO NEGOTIATE YOUR WAY TO THAT PERFECT JOB

WHY USE AN INSURANCE BROKER?

E VA GR AB NER

G RAHAM KO CH

THE POWER OF PR CONNECT WITH PEOPLE THROUGH EVENTS

STOP WASTING THOUSANDS ON ENERGY BILLS WITH POWER ALERT

D A N AE JONES

CARRY WHITE

A BIT MORE ABOUT MEDIATION IN FAMILY LAW

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR THE NEWLY SEPARATED

N A R D INE COL L I ER

SUZANNE HADLEY

PERMANENT PARENT MIGRATION

VISA CO NNECTIO N

Millyard Family Lawyers are a Cairns law firm specialising in the practice of family law.

Director and Principal Amanda Millyard, an Accredited Family Law Specialist, has 18 years experience in the practice of family law.

Tailored advice is provided on divorce, property settlements, binding financial agreements (including pre-nuptial agreements), child custody issues and alternative dispute resolution options in family law matters.

Understanding that every case is unique, we find innovative solutions to our client’s legal issue that are grounded in law.

We are committed to being of service.

The Bolands Centre, 14 Spence Street Cairns QLD 4870 Tel: 07 40553477 Email: info@millyardfamilylawyers.com.au www.millyardfamilylawyers.com.au

Voted into Doyle’s 2017 List of Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers - North Queensland

CairnsLife 66 Magazine

LIFE Business

HOW TO NEGOTIATE YOUR WAY TO THAT PERFECT JOB E VA GR A BNE R Eva Grabner Managing Director Elite Executive Pty Ltd www.eliteexecutive.com.au 0409 59 11 88

“The worst thing you can say is ‘I want $X for this job,’ leaving no opening for negotiation by the other side. Better language is ‘I hope to earn between $X and $X.’ That gives the other party more flexibility.”

– Bill Coleman I often get asked when is the right time to discuss salary during the interview process. As a recruiter, I make it a priority to cover this during my very first discussion with a candidate and it’s something we refer back to throughout the recruitment process.

It is my job to ensure my candidate gets paid a fair and reasonable salary package and one that is in line with their expectations and my client’s budget (see an earlier blog ‘What are you worth’ on www. eliteexecutive.com.au if you are unsure what to be asking for).

• You may be asked what your current or past salary package was so remember to include company car, super, salary sacrificing options, bonuses, etc. It’s smart to be clear in advance what the total value of your current, or recent remuneration package is. Humming and hawing when asked this question makes you look unprepared and less professional.

• Never say that you are earning more than you are.

This can, and most likely will, be checked!

When considering a salary offer, keep in mind that there may be other benefits included such as additional leave, flexible working hours, training grants or a higher super contribution. Take all this into consideration when deciding to whether to accept or decline an offer.

However, if you have applied for a role directly and have been called into an interview when is the best time to discuss salary and related benefits?

A client recently told me a story about an interview they conducted with a candidate who came across well during the interview and answered their questions professionally. It certainly looked like my client had found an excellent candidate until the end of the interview when my client asked them if they had any questions. Their first question was ‘What is the package on offer’.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to know this information but in this case, timing is everything.

This particular candidate lost this opportunity because they came across to the client, who was yet to make a decision about this candidate, as financially motivated and less-than-interested in the company, the role and their team. Here are a few tips which will help you at that next interview:

Many national recruitment companies will have annual salary surveys that you can access for free online or you can check on sites such as Glassdoor which will give you a good indication of what current market rates are for that particular role.

Feel free to contact Elite Executive if you need any guidance in this area.

Eva is an Executive Recruiter and Search Consultant with nearly a decade of experience across a multitude of industries.

She provides a more personalized, one-onone service, working alongside her clients so that she can learn about, and understand, their business, people and especially, their culture.

• During most interviews the interviewer will ask you what your salary expectations are, be prepared to give a range that you would be comfortable with. Under no circumstances say that salary isn’t important. It is. Give them an answer that accurately reflects your position.

• Do your homework – review the advert, research the position, the company and the location. Call contacts or even speak with a recruiter that you are comfortable talking with to get an idea of what they might pay so that you pitch within the range that the company is likely to offer.

• Remember that it is perfectly reasonable to reverse that question when asked by asking how much they

are willing to pay for the best candidate. Then you will have a starting point in your negotiations.

With an extensive global network and current knowledge on market conditions, Eva prides herself on her ability to quickly identify the best individuals for her clients ensuring that a high performer is appointed for a vacancy and that they are the right person for your business.

Elite also offers a HR Consulting service for small business owners and has a team of highly qualified HR and IR experts providing clients with a more personalised and tailored HR support system enabling them to free up their internal resources and achieve their business goals.

CHANGI NG THE FACE OF RECRU I TM ENT • Executive Recruitment • Global Search Specialists

• Human Resource Consulting • Resume and Career Advice S P EC IALTIES INC LUDE:

eliteexecutive.com.au info@eliteexecutive.com.au 07 4057 9053

Executive roles (CEO, CFO, COO, MD, GM) | Engineers, Project Managers and Construction Managers | Health, Safety & Environmental Managers | Logistics, Supply Chain & Procurement | Accounting & Finance Professionals | Human Resource Specialists | Sales & Marketing | Operations Staff

CairnsLife 67 Magazine

LIFE Business

THE POWER OF PR

CONNECT WITH PEOPLE THROUGH EVENTS D AN AE J O N E S

First impressions are everything and when putting on an event, your company needs to showcase your brand.

A well planned, creative event can be a show stopper for even the smallest of businesses. Putting on an event need not cost the earth either, it’s all about establishing the purpose of the event in the first place and then working through the key elements from there.

Professional event managers and marketers know how to put on an event to WOW your audience to fit within your budget, so don’t hesitate in engaging a professional to assist you and your team make your event be remembered.

Events can be hosted for many reasons, including publicity & product launches, awards nights, a simply a thank you or networking function for customers and suppliers, or even a low key internal team bonding experience for your staff to help them reconnect and have some fun outside of work.

Danae J o n es i s P ri nc ip a l o f P R & Market i n g f i rm D a n a e J o n e s Consultin g

Here are some items to consider when thinking of hosting an event: • Who will be your designated event manager – will you delegate an internal staff member or outsource it to a professional?

• Establish your purpose for hosting the event – do you want to attract new customers from the event? Do you want to make your existing clients feel appreciated? Or are you wanting to host an event to attract media attention?

• Create a good guest list – is the event being hosted for an external purpose (customers, potential new customers, suppliers or the general public/business community?)

• Venue – the location is key, make sure you choose wisely. We live in paradise, so let your imagination run wild • Event Date, Start Time & Finish Time – timing is crucial, make sure you choose the time to host your event wisely. Will public or school holidays affect your attendance? If so, steer clear of these times. Think about what other events are on in town? Try not to clash with other events to ensure maximum attendance numbers • Invitations – will you be posting them, sending them via email or personally delivering them? How

CairnsLife 70 Magazine

will they look? – Remember first impressions are everything, so make your invitations “inviting” • Theme & Design – it doesn’t cost much to theme an event, so get creative and try and have some fun • Catering – if you don’t want to be considered a cheap scape, then don’t serve the absolute bare minimum just because you don’t want to spend much. People will notice. There are many low budget caterers in this region that do an amazing job. Be kind to your guests when choosing your food and give them something you would like to be served if you were attending a similar event.

• Sponsorship – if your event is to thank customers or attract new ones, maybe your suppliers might be willing to chip in and help share the cost? If you are hosting the event to raise money for charity, maybe some businesses might be willing to sponsor their contribution (i.e catering, theming, AV).

• Audio Visual – do you need to play videos or slideshows, do you need microphones, speakers?

• Lighting – the right kind of lighting can make all the difference. Simple, creative and well placed lighting can actually make the most basic event appear stylish and rich with the flick of a switch • Entertainment – will you have music, a comedy act? Speech after speech is boring so think of your guests when creating the run sheet • Merchandise – will you want your guests to take away something with your company brand on it to remember the event? If so, what?

The world is your oyster when it comes to promotional merchandise these days • Marketing & Public Relations – is your event worth covering in the news? Is it a public event and does it need promoting to achieve optimum attendance numbers?

• Keynote speakers – who will speak at the event? Do you need to engage a professional speaker?

• Emcee – who will Emcee the event? Will it be you, or do you need to engage a professional that can maintain the crowd’s attentions?

These are just some of the key items that need consideration when hosting an event. A well managed event should always be a memorable experience that will WOW your audience and leave them with a positive feeling about your brand.

LIFE Business

Sorted Super is a Cairns-based Chartered Accounting firm providing SMSF Consulting and Administration Services to Trustees, Accountants and Finance Professionals. We are experienced, highly qualified professionals, with a passion for all things SMSF. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and building proactive relationships with our clients.

THE SUPER RULES ARE CHANGING FROM 1ST JULY Do you fully understand how your SMSF will be affected? Will you be impacted by the changes to super pensions?

As a specialist SMSF firm we focus on your SMSF so you can focus on what you do best.

Let us help you get your SMSF sorted!

Suite 7 Traveltown, 21 Lake Street, Cairns Qld 4870 www.sortedsuper.com.au (07) 4051 1515

Sorted Super Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (1241255) of Independent Capital Advisers Pty Ltd AFSL 378693

WAG E S U B S I DY S C H E M E Wage subsidies provide a financial incentive to eligible employers when considering the employment of job seekers with disability or with other barriers to employment. Wage subsidies are payments made to employers to help cover the costs of paying wages in the first few months of employment of a person with disability.

APM provides services to employers, government and job seekers which are designed to place people into meaningful employment.

As par t of the employment process, we assist with job matching, pre - employment screening/ assessment, preparation for work , job placement and post-placement suppor t.

Wage subsidies may be provided to employers to increase the competitiveness of job seekers with disability when seeking employment in open labour market conditions. It can also be used to address any additional demands an employer may perceive exist or experience in establishing an employee with disability into the workplace compared to other employees.

APM can offer you the following complimentary services: • Explanation of the Wage Subsidy Scheme (WSS), the potential benefits to your company and details of the guidelines • Assistance to identify applicants and suitable positions within your company • Negotiate individual subsidies of up to $1650 (including GST) per worker • Provide ongoing support and assistance to the workplace APM are experienced at: • Understanding the WSS guidelines • Assessing potential eligibility of employers and employees • Administrating the subsidy • Paying the subsidy directly to you • Working in partnership with employers

APM is also able to provide employers with Wage Subsidy incentives to assist with the costs of employing new staff.

For further details contact APM Cairns on 0740317 240 CairnsLife 71 Magazine

www.apm.net.au

LIFE Business

A BIT MORE ABOUT MEDIATION IN FAMILY LAW NA R D IN E C O L L I E R

Your relationship ends. You want to sort out arrangements for your children and your property. You have tried talking to you ex, but it just ends up in shouting and tears. You just can’t seem to make them understand why you feel the way you do; why you can’t agree to what they want. Maybe you don’t even know what that is! What can you do?

If it is about property, we start by looking at what property there is, and whether parties agree on values. Before a mediation, each party will be required to provide the other with financial information such as bank statements, superannuation statements, etc; and houses and the like will need to be valued.

You should get some legal advice, but you should also look at mediation as soon as possible. In past articles I have talked about mediation and why it is so worthwhile. This article explains more about the process and what to expect.

Mediation is a great process which has a very high success rate. It allows you to ‘talk’ to each other in a safe environment, in a controlled and respectful way. One of the rules of mediation will be that you talk respectfully to the other person, there is no shouting or put downs, and no interruptions when the other is talking. I see it all the time – people have not been able to resolve a dispute because they just haven’t been able to talk about it.

Sometimes that is all it takes, the ability to talk, be heard, and have the other person try and understand where you are coming from.

For family law mediations, the most common ways of arranging a mediation is through Relationships Australia, the Queensland Legal Aid Commission, the Dispute Resolution Centre or through a private mediator.

N ar dine Co l l i er i s a N a tio n a lly A cc redit ed med i at o r a n d h a s b e e n m edia ting f ami l y la w d is p u te s fo r 2 0 years. S h e is a F a m ily D ispute Reso l u t i o n P r a c titio n e r, a Fa mily L aw Arb i t r a to r, a p a n e l m edia tor f o r vari o u s A u s tr a lia wid e o rganisat i o n s an d f or c o u r ts a n d tribuna ls, an d reg u la r ly m e d ia te s a t le gal ai d co n f erenc e s in fa m ily l a w, in Cai rn s an d th e N o r th e r n Ter ritor y. S h e i s al s o th e C a ir n s repr esen t at i ve o f t h e Qu e e n s la n d C hapte r o f t h e Reso lu tio n In s titu te o f A ustr al i a.

There might be slight variations in the process amongst organisations but basically, this is what I do. I meet each party separately, prior to the mediation, to have a private chat to you about your hopes for the mediation, the issues you would like to discuss, and your proposals to settle the dispute. If parties are comfortable to do so we will then meet together (called a joint session). Parties can bring their lawyers if they wish to do so. If it is not a good idea to all be in the same room, a mediation can also be conducted as a “Shuttle” mediation which means you are in separate rooms at all times and I go back and forth between you.

We start by working out what each party would like to achieve, and we put together a list of issues to discuss and tackle them one by one. We might do this in a joint session, or we might have a private session, which is where I meet with you (and your lawyer) alone.

Any agreement you reach yourselves will be fair better than an order imposed on you by the court. It is very rare for someone to come out a court proceeding with everything they wanted, and the costs are high, financially and emotionally. The best thing you can do for yourself, your family, your children - is to try and resolve this dispute, reach an agreement about family law matters, and move on with life.

It is my opinion that just about any dispute is capable of resolution and you have nothing to lose by attempting mediation. Even if you don’t manage to settle entirely, there is always something positive that is achieved.

M: 0428 526 568 P: (07) 4212 5666 E: nardine@collierlawyers.com.au W: www.collierlawyers.com.au

DON’T LITIGATE | MEDIATE • • • • • • •

Affordable Rates Flexible Payment Fixed Price Family & Workplace Mediation Resolving Family & Workplace Disputes Investigations and Advice Workplace Policy Development M: 0428 526 568 P: (07) 4212 5666 www.collierlawyers.com.au

CairnsLife 72 Magazine

WHY USE AN INSURANCE BROKER? GR AH A M K O CH

Gr aham Ko ch i s M a n a g in g D ir e c to r of K IB G ro u p w i t h o v e r 4 0 y e a r s e xperi en ce i n t h e f in a n c ia l p la n n in g a nd in su ran ce i n d us tr y

Nowadays insurance is a necessity - whether it’s for a business, a house, a boat, or our family’s health - everyone buys it. There are many different ways to buy insurance.

But how do you know you’re making the best-informed decision? In this article, we talk about why you might want to consider engaging the services of a local insurance broker.

Working for you: An insurance broker works for you, not the insurance company. Once they’ve assessed your specific insurance needs, their job is to seek out appropriate insurance coverage for your needs. They compare the coverage of numerous insurers in an effort to get you the best rates and best policy conditions you need. They can often find a good deal on insurance because they have a thorough understanding of the insurance market and can negotiate premiums on your behalf.

Variety of choice: Engaging an insurance broker means that you will have a good amount of choice when it comes to deciding on which policy (or policies) is right for you. With more choice and a keen professional eye, insurance brokers can often find you a policy that is not just ideal for what you need, but also potentially cheaper than what you would find if you searched and compared policies yourself. Remember though that rarely does cheapest mean best so your broker may advise you to pay a little extra to have more appropriate cover.

Customer focus: A broker’s advice is offered with your best interests at heart. Unlike other providers who are focused on selling you something, with a broker your interests come first. It is this focus on customer needs and objectivity that sets the broker apart from other insurance options.

One stop shop: While some brokers specialise in specific industries, a general insurance broker offers the benefit of dealing with one broker for all policies from car insurance to professional indemnity insurance rather than dealing directly with several insurers. Similarly, a life insurance broker can help you with life insurance, trauma insurance and income protection cover Personal guide: Insurance matters can get a bit confusing; a broker can help explain premiums, terms, conditions and any small print that you’re not sure of. This also means skipping the hours of trying to understand everything

LIFE Business on your own. When a broker is already experienced and highly trained in these matters they give you time to focus on your core business or other personal endeavours.

Sure, you might think, what about comparison sites to buy insurance online?

Doing that may save you time, but that’s not always the best way. The policies you’ll be offered are usually fairly generic. So if you want a policy that meets your individual needs it seems a wiser choice to use a broker.

A helping hand: Brokers are firmly on their client’s side, and act as advocates at all times - including when making a claim. This can help reduce stress in times of crisis. If you unfortunately experience a loss, your insurance broker will guide you through the claims process, helping to ensure a swift and fair settlement by your insurance company.

Expertise: Brokers are licensed professionals. In Australia, all insurance brokers are required to be licensed by the federal government’s Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Reputable and experienced insurance brokers in Australia will generally also hold additional qualifications such as a diploma in financial services.

Just like an accountant or lawyer who provides you with professional advice based on years of training and experience, a qualified broker can do the same with your insurance. They are experts at risk assessment and how to properly protect you and your family’s interests with respect to Motor, Home, life and Business coverages.

Disclaimer: This information may not be suitable for your individual objectives, financial planning situation or needs and you should seek advice from a qualified insurance broker before making any general insurance decisions. General Insurance advice is provided by Koch Brokers Pty Ltd trading as KIB Insurance Brokers (AFSL no.

226904) (ABN 51051305303).

Disclaimer: This information may not be suitable for your individual objectives, financial Planning situation or needs and you should seek advice from your Financial Adviser before making any investment decisions. Personal Life insurance advice is provided by Graham Koch who is a Sub -Authorised representative (260424) of KIB Financial Planning, Corporate Authorised Representative (no. 316538) of Professional Investment Services Pty Ltd (AFSL no.

234951) (ABN11074608558).

With over 40 years experience, it’s good to be with KIB! Our family, looking after yours

SUPERANNUATION INSURANCE

606 Bruce Highway, Woree (opposite Cannon Park racecourse) p: (07) 4054 8300 www.kibcairns.com.au

CairnsLife 73 Magazine

|

INVESTMENT

| FINANCE

LIFE Business

19th-28th MAY 2017

View the last Gourmet Dinner on YouTube, just scan the QR code

fb.com/shangrilacairns

CairnsLife 74 Magazine

LIFE Business

Imagine if you could reduce your business’ energy bills by up to thousands each year and protect your business from never wasting money on energy, ever again.

That’s exactly what Power Alert, a revolutionary new online tool can do and it’s been developed and launched right here in Cairns.

Before founding Power Alert, I spent years working with businesses and energy companies identifying ways to reduce energy consumption and costs. I found that most businesses struggle to monitor their energy consumption, check and understand complex statements and then be able to match their needs to the cheapest tariff possible. Even when they do, energy companies change their tariffs and introduce new products on a monthly basis. So, what was the best deal today, could be costing the business tomorrow.

STOP WASTING THOUSANDS ON ENERGY BILLS WITH POWER ALERT C ARY WH I T E DIREC T O R A N D FO UNDER

That’s why we developed Power Alert, we wanted to level the playing field and provide a tool to prevent businesses from wasting thousands on energy. By simply subscribing to a monthly subscription, Power Alert will continuously work on behalf of the business to drive down energy bills and discover new ways to reduce their energy consumption.

Left: Hamish Allardice - General Manager ‘Cairns Student Lodge’ Right: Cary White – Director and Founder ‘Power Alert’

Initial results over the last 12 months have been extremely promising. In some cases, we’ve been able to identify and capture

N E V E R

P A Y

T O O

M U C H

F O R

E N E R G Y

annual savings between $2,500 and $81,000, from a service that costs as little as $35 per month.

Developed by a Cairns based team at Energy Guru, Power Alert checks energy bills to ensure businesses are on the lowest tariff possible, the correct rates are being applied and make recommendations to help businesses build an energy saving plan.

To get started, all businesses need to do is sign up at www.poweralert. com.au and provide a copy of their latest energy bill. After that Power Alert will get to work analysing their energy consumption and identifying where any possible savings can be applied. If a saving is identified, the business is sent a notification with the recommendation, for them to confirm. Power Alert takes care of the rest.

Even when a business is on the most competitive tariff, Power Alert provides ongoing protection to allow businesses to take advantage of any new products or price changes in the market place, verify the correct rates are being applied and identify new ways to save money on energy.

FREE TRIAL: Businesses across the region are being invited to sign up for a one month free trial at www.poweralert.com.au.

A G A I N

Di s c o v e r h o w Power A lert c a n h elp yo u save $1000’s pe r ye ar on e ne rg y.

P OW ER AL ER T H EL P S Y OUR B US INES S :

Start saving today at www.poweralert.com.au

• Id e nt i fy a nd ca p t ur e che a p e r e ne r g y r a t e s • Ve r i fy t he co r r e ct r a t e s ha v e b e e n a p p li e d t o y o ur bil l s • Lo we r e ne r g y co ns ump t i o n t o r e d uce b i lls fur t her .

Yo ur b us i ne s s wi ll ne v e r wa s t e mo ne y o n e ne r g y again !

CairnsLife 75 Magazine

LIFE Business

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR THE NEWLY SEPARATED SU Z ANNE HA D L E Y

THE BREAKDOWN OF A RELATIONSHIP AND SUBSEQUENT SEPARATION BRINGS A MAJOR UPHEAVAL INTO THE LIFE OF BOTH PARTIES AND THEIR FAMILIES, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN OF THE RELATIONSHIP. WITH ALL THE EMOTIONS SWIRLING AROUND IT CAN BE HARD TO THINK BEYOND THE IMMEDIATE PRACTICALITIES OF LIVING ARRANGEMENTS, CHILD CARE ARRANGEMENTS AND JUST KEEPING YOURSELF TOGETHER. THESE FEW TIPS SHOULD HELP YOU THROUGH THOSE EARLY STAGES OF GETTING BACK ON TRACK TO A NEW NORMAL.

Take good care of yourself. Being newly separated is like a death in the family. You have permission to grieve.

Inevitably, there is a sense of loss grief or depression. Talk to your GP about your changed situation. Your GP will be able to refer you to an appropriate psychologist or counsellor under the mental health care plans available through Medicare. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, take regular exercise and minimise your alcohol intake. The answer to adjusting to being newly separated is never at the bottom of a bottle.

Financial matters. Close all joint accounts, including joint credit card accounts as soon as is practical. When a joint account is used to pay mortgage and other recurring joint expenses, contribute your share to the joint account until you sort out who going to pay for what. Open your own bank account and direct your salary there.

Don’t cause unnecessary friction by emptying the joint bank account or any other joint accounts. Communicate with your former partner about any major withdrawals.

Change all your passwords for all your personal online account access.

Get a new email address and use a password you have never used during the relationship. Opening a new email account will maintain your privacy.

Take note of the separation date and put the date in your iPhone. This is likely to become important later.

Find your Certificate of Marriage and any other paperwork relating to property, share portfolios, investments, superannuation statements and taxation records. Take copies of these documents. Check your insurance policies and superannuation accounts.

Consider whether you need to change the beneficiaries of these accounts.

Review your Will and revoke any existing Powers of Attorney and appoint a fresh Power-Of-Attorney.

You should also review your Advanced Health Directives.

Using a post office box for a while until you settle on a more permanent address can help if you have moved.

You may need to update your driver’s licence, Medicare, CentreLink and banking records.

Parenting issues help the children by making the school aware of the change in the family situation. Update the school with any changed contact details. Join with the other parent about engaging the children with the school Counsellor.

Separation is a unique situation for you and your family, but not unique for the school. Engaging with the school will help your children navigate their way through a changed family arrangement and minimise any impact on their education. Remember too, that your relationship with the other parent is not the children’s relationship with the other parent. Denigrating the other parent hurts the children. Keep things as normal as possible for them.

This article is not intended to contain legal advice. Always seek legal advice applicable to your particular situation.

At Hadley Family Law, we are sensitive to the many issues facing the newly separated. We strive to assist our clients maintain dignity and achieve a civilised separation Suzanne Hadley is a Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialist [FamilyLaw]

• Divorce applications.

CAIRNS FAMILY LAWYERS

• Cohabitation agreements.

• Prenuptial and binding financial agreements.

PRACTICING FAMILY LAW AND DE FACTO LAW hadleyfamilylaw.com.au

82 Scott Street, Cairns

• Surrogacy and assisted conception agreements.

• Assistance with the resolution of parenting arrangements.

Ph: 07 4044 5000

CairnsLife 76 Magazine

hadleyfamilylaw

LIFE Business

PERMANENT PARENT MIGRATION I F YO U AR E AN AUS T R A L I A N CI T I Z E N, AUST R A L IAN PER M A NE NT RE S I D E NT OR E L I G I B L E N EW Z EAL A ND CI T I Z E N, WHO I S SE T TL ED IN A UST R A L I A , A ND HA S A PARE NT L IVIN G O VE RS E A S WI S HI NG T O MI G RATE H ER E TH E N T HE PA RE NT V I S A CATE GO R IES A R E AVA I L A BL E .

With the introduction of the temporary parent visa to commence in July 2017 there are indications the permanent parent visa options will be phased out and so its encouraged for applicants looking at this option to go ahead prior to July 2017.

All applicants for the permanent parent visas must meet the balance of family (BoF) test. This means that parents must have either: at least half of their children permanently resident in Australia or more children permanently resident in Australia than in any other single country overseas.

Government certain welfare payments paid to migrants during their respective AoS period. An AoS is also a commitment to provide financial support to the person applying to migrate, so that they will not have to rely on social welfare payments. The AoS period is 2 years for the parent visa classes and 10 years for the contributory parent visa classes.

There are two permanent parent visa categories for parents wishing to migrate to Australia: the parent category and the contributory parent category.

Parents whose age is equivalent to a person who is eligible for an Australian age pension, in most cases, are able to make an application for an aged parent or aged contributory parent class while here in Australia and remain in Australia during the visa processing. Otherwise applicants need to apply for the offshore categories.

The differences between the two categories are that there are more visa places available each migration program year in the contributory parent visa.

The contributory parent visa classes are given much higher priority and therefore processed faster however these classes are subject to a substantially higher second visa application charge and higher assurance of support bond with a longer bond period.

The contributory parent visa is split into temporary and permanent visas. A parent can either apply directly for permanent residency or they can chose to apply for a temporary visa, and then within two years apply for the corresponding permanent visa. The advantage of doing this is that the substantial second visa application charge is spread across two visa applications and potentially a two year period.

A mandatory Assurance of Support (AoS) bond is payable for all parent classes. The AoS is a legal commitment by a person to repay to the Australian

If you are intending to migrate to Australia you should the assistance of a Registered Migration Agent who can give advice and guidance on the right visa option for you.

Want an Australian Visa?

At Visa Connection we provide expert and personalised immigration advice to individuals and corporations worldwide.

We have a vast knowledge of: • Australian Migration Law • General Migration Advice • Family sponsored visas • Spouse and Defacto visas • General Skilled Migration • Australian Citizenship and • Work sponsored visas (457 and RSMS/ENS)

Migration Agents Registration Number

0640004

www.mara.gov.au

Call us today on: (07) 4051 9043 to arrange your FREE half hour consultation Registered Migration Agents Fiona Ryan, Registered Migration Agent No. 0640004 e info@visaconnect.com.au www.visaconnect.com.au

CairnsLife 77 Magazine

MEDICALLIFE t hi s m on th in

BETTER HEARING AT AUDIOHEALTH MAVEN DENTAL CAIRNS NORTH & CAIRNS CITY

JOANNA MAGEE

MAVEN DENTAL G RO UP STONED (UROLOGICALLY SPEAKING) WHY DOES EVERYTHING HURT?

D R NEIL GOR D ON

SUZANNE RATH

COMMUNITY MELAMONA AWARENESS INITIATIVE

F NQH

SPERM & EGG DONORS URGENTLY NEEDED Cairns Fertility Centre, a busy fertility clinic is seeking sperm & egg donors for infertile patients • All nationalities welcome • Sperm donors should be between 18-50 years • Egg donors should be between 21-35 years Accredited with

For further information please contact 07 4040 6888 & speak to one of our friendly staff This advertisement has been approved by the Queensland Minister of Health as required by Section 41 of the Queensland Transplantation and Anatomy Act 1979

Cairns Fertility Centre | Cairns Central Day Hospital

4th Floor, Cairns Central Plaza, 58--60 McLeod Street (Cnr Aplin Street), Cairns QLD 4870 t 07 4040 6888 f 07 4041 1646 e info@cairnsfertility.com www.cairnsfertility.com CairnsLife 78 Magazine

LIFE Medical

BETTER HEARING AT AUDIOHEALTH JO ANNA MAGE E

Joanna is an accred i ted ‘ EA R ’ wi th the Royal Aust ral i an C o l l eg e o f Genera l Pract it ion er s (R A C GP) an d is involved in educati o n al semi n ar s for doc t ors, nurses an d al l i ed h eal th profes sionals.

With literally thousands of ears of experience between us our family are in a unique position to be able to assist those with hearing loss overcome their difficulties. “We’ve had three generations of involvement in hearing healthcare, explains Joanna director of the family Practices. My Father trained in Audiology in Britain and opened his first clinic in Sydney in the early 1980’s. With service as our focus the clinics were immediately embraced by the community and the family Practice grew to become the largest privately owned in Australia. Then over twenty years ago when my Father was retiring my husband John and myself opened our first custom designed hearing clinic on Sydney’s north shore and using the same service focused approach we soon grew to become several clinics throughout the state before expanding to Cairns benefiting the local community with access to state of the art hearing devices at very affordable prices.

Being an independent clinic, we focus on accessing the latest technology – regardless of the brand,” explains Joanna which ensures our clients have choice and access to the best products on the market.

If it means an investigative trip overseas, we are up for it, researching, educating, upskilling on new software to program the devices is par for the course if we are to excel in providing outstanding hearing results. On occasions, we have been the first clinic in Australia to launch some of these products, this is something we have always been passionate about.”

With decades of experience behind them, the Magee family have been involved in hearing care for three generations.

With the utmost level of involvement, AUDiOHEALTH offers unparalleled commitment to provide clients with more than just a service.

“Hearing loss impacts on so many aspects of a person’s life that being treated with care and consideration is of paramount importance, explains

Joanna. Our clinicians take a genuine interest in each individual’s specific needs and strive to optimise hearing by tailormaking solutions. The latest state of the art equipment is used to ensure accurate testing, precise programming and detailed and timely medical reporting.

We have recently extended this care to actively participate in the Starkey Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation aimed to fit one million people in third world countries with free hearing devices before the end of the decade. We have assisted in fitting 620 children in Indonesia at the end of last year and another trip is planned later in the year. Please consider donating your old hearing aids to this wonderful cause that helps children, their families and their communities.

At home, we continue to bring you the latest hearing technology with the new SoundLens Synergy, the world’s first and smallest IIC* invisible when worn hearing device, smaller than a jelly bean and hidden completely in the ear canal with a quad core processor that works 5 times faster than previous micro-chips and we have just launched the world’s smallest rechargeable RIC hearing device, being rechargeable this has done away with the need to change batteries so no more fiddling, just pop into the ear and go and very eco-friendly. Further progress has been made in addressing tinnitus that annoying ringing people get in their ears or head when no external sound is present.

Most new hearing devices come equipped with a tinnitus masker which offers relief to those who find this sound interfering with their lives.”

If you feel you may have a hearing loss and would like to trial any of these innovative new devices, make a booking at the Cairns clinic on 4041 7860. You’ve nothing to lose but your hearing loss and a whole new world of sound to gain! https://www.audiohealth.com.au/

FREE HEARING AID TRIAL * You’re looking at the world’s smallest rechargeable hearing instruments. *Terms and Conditions apply. Offer ends 30th June 2017. **Moxi Fit R is the smallest rechargeable hearing instrument in the world based on exterior dimensions, compared to other products in its class. © 2017 Unitron. All rights reserved.

One rechargeable battery.

Thousands of conversations.

Do you struggle with conversations in noise and crowds?

We have the solution! You won’t just love the discretion of Moxi ™ Fit R hearing aids, you’ll love how easy they are too.

With an overnight charge, you’ll be able to enjoy conversations all day long.

Call CairnsLife 79 Magazine

LIFE Medical

STONED

(UROLOGICALLY SPEAKING).

As the weather gets even hotter and more humid over the next few months – Don’t forget to drink….WATER, that is!

The consequences of not drinking can result in the formation of kidney stone which is THE most painful condition.

Characteristically, kidney stone pain starts on one side of the back and moves around to the front towards the bladder. There is no warning. Those who have had it describe it as “the worst pain ever”. It comes in waves and may be associated with nausea, vomiting and a desire to pass urine. Women who have had children describe it as worse than childbirth.

The cause of the pain is the muscle spasm associated with the tube from the kidney (ureter) trying to pass something solid when it is designed to squirt urine down to the bladder. Quite often the stones get stuck and require surgery which can be carried out in a variety of ways.

First of all, the patient is usually given pain relief. Then it is necessary to locate the position and size of the stone. This is usually done by carrying out an x-ray which is a single photograph combined with a CT scan.

Pictures are taken before and after having had an injection of dye into a vein of the arm. This passes out through the kidneys and importantly, also shows if the other one is OK. Small stones are likely to pass by themselves with pain relief and some medications may assist with that. If the stone is larger and located near the exit of the kidney and upper third of the ureter it may be able to be treated with Extra Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy.

This is a procedure carried out in Day Surgery

where sound waves are aimed at the stone causing it to break into smaller less painful fragments and pass naturally. In the last 18 years over 500 patients have been treated with this at Cairns Day Surgery.

Kidney Stone

If the stone is lower then usually a Ureteroscope is passed up through the bladder then ureter to the stone where it may be broken up and the pieces removed. This can be done with a mechanical instrument or laser. The laser can also be passed up through the body’s natural tubes to the kidney to disintegrate stones there.

No cuts on the skin needed!

• Starts on one side of the back and moves around to the front towards the bladder.

Kidney stones are formed when substances in the urine form crystals which then grow (like a pearl) to be a stone. They usually occur as a result of relative dehydration but some families have tendencies to form them.

• Those who have had it describe it as “the worst pain ever”.

The best way to reduce the chance of forming kidney stones is to drink enough water each day so there is no colour to the urine. If you take vitamins it is not possible to see that as the water soluble ones are passed out in the urine and colour it. If you put a squeeze of lime or lemon juice in the water, it reduces the chance of stones further.

• Formed when substances in the urine form crystals which then grow (like a pearl) to be a stone.

Dr Neil Gordon Urologist Urological Surgeon at Cairns Urology M.B.B.S (Melb) F.R.C.S (Glasg)F.R.C.S Ed F.R.A.C.S., F.I.C.S

98 Spence Street Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia PO Box 7787 Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia

P (07) 4041 0700 F (07) 4041 4007 www.cryotherapy.com.au www.cairns-urology.com.au reception@cairns-urology.com.au

LIFE Medical

It’s the biggest organ in the body and protects us from invasive viruses, but caring for our skin’s own health is also vital. To highlight the concern for detecting melanomas, operations manager, Tarlia Rajeswaran, points out that skin cancer can develop in areas of the body that have never been exposed to direct sunlight. To add to the dilemma of not being able to detect subtle changes in skin, Dr Vin Rajeswaran explains that many people don’t get themselves checked as they can’t afford it.

“This is why we offer bulk billing for all medicare rebatable services at our clinics.”

COMMUNITY MELANOMA AWARENESS INITIATIVE

Doctors of FNQH Cairns and Innisfail clinics have a range of specialised services on offer to the community. These include PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) for reducing the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer by up to 80% with one treatment, mixed light chronic wound healing, blue light acne treatments, Total Body Photography (TBP), and comprehensive skin checks using state-of-the-art MyScan imaging. Each clinic has private consultation rooms which have

display monitors where patients can view changes to their skin.

They have two fully equipped operating theatres in each clinic, where they conduct skin cancer removal surgeries with anaesthetic capabilities.

“At our Cairns and Innisfail clinics, we also have the only nonhospital services that have sedation anaesthetic capabilities, which can be accessed to help reduce waiting times in the hospital system for minor skin cancer removals,” says Tarlia.

FNQH has commenced the Community Melanoma Awareness Initiative which seeks to educate people on the prevention, detection and treatment of skin cancer.

“95 percent of melanomas that are detected early are curable with an excision,” says Dr Vin Rajeswaran. Your health is important and there can be a misnomer that if you are young or always use sunscreen you won’t be affected. People can come in to get their skin checked now. Male and female doctors are available.

FNQH Medical And Skin Cancer Centre

• Total Body Photography (TBP) • PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT- red light) • Sedation anaesthetic capabilities • Two fully equipped operating theatres • MyScan imaging system • Acne treatments (Blue Light) • Chronic wound advanced healing treatments (Mixed light) • skin cancer preventative treatments

ALL MEDICARE REBATABLE SERVICES ARE COMPETELY BULK BILLED! DFO Cairns 274 Mulgrave Rd Westcourt 07 4041-2857 MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30AM-5PM Innisfail 35 Palmerston Drive 07 4061 - 4471

CairnsLife 81 Magazine

Innisfail clinic: Dr Valeria Beardsley Dr Maninder Ghotra Dr Vin Rajeswaran (Director) Dr Damien Foong (Director) Cairns clinic: Dr Vin Rajeswaran (Director) Dr Damien Foong (Director) Dr Phoebe Chisnall Dr Caroline MacLeod

about us

about us

At Maven Dental Cairns North our experienced team are dedicated to providing the best dental care in Cairns.

At Maven Dental Cairns City, our experienced team are dedicated to providing the best dental care in Cairns.

Our team, led by Dr Rod Ashton together with Dr Linda Trang and Dr Carmen Manzie, look forward to meeting all your family and their general and cosmetic dental needs.

Our team, led by Dr Michael Slatcher together with Dr Nadine Slatcher, Dr Kate Long,Dr Noureen Dhamani and Dr Rod Whitehead,look forward to meeting all your family and their general and cosmetic dental needs.

services

services

• Preventative Treatment • Children’s Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Teeth Whitening • Root Canal Treatment

• Dentures • General Anaesthesia • Dental Hygienist • Medibank Private and HCF preferred Dentist

• Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth • General Anaesthesia • Cosmetic Dentistry • Children’s Dentistry • Dental Hygiene

• Root Canal Treatment • Preventative Treatment • Dentures • Bupa, Medibank Private and HCF preferred Dentist

hours

hours

Monday - Thursday 8:00am – 5:00pm Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm Evening By Appointment only

Monday - Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Saturday 8:00am – 3:00pm

Maven Dental Cairns North

Maven Dental Cairns City

P: 07 4051 7333 F: 7 405201249 E: cairnsnorth@mavendental.com.au A: 361-363 Sheridan Street, Cairns, QLD 4870

P: 07 4051 2500 F: 07 4031 2363 E: cairnscity@mavendental.com.au A: 69 Mcleod St , Cairns ,4870

Visit our website at mavendental.com.au/dentists/ashton-dental-cairns-north

Visit our website at mavendental.com.au/dentists/cairns-city-dental

WHY DOES EVERYTHING HURT? SU Z A NNE R AT H BSc. (HONS) Physio MSc. Sport and Exercise Medicine.

Craniosacral therapist.

Have you got pain in lots of places? Maybe you’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia or another chronic pain condition. Or you’ve suffered a whiplash injury where your pain started in one spot and moved to other parts of your body- sometimes weeks or even years later. Your feeling that ‘everything hurts’ could even have stemmed from something as simple as the fact that limping on a sprained ankle put your back out. Wellness Embodied physiotherapist and founder Suzanne Rath shares five key points about pain in multiple areas and explains how physiotherapy can help.

1) The brain-body link.

If you’ve suffered from severe pain, or seen a loved one in pain, you’ll understand how difficult it is to fully understand the pain levels of others. Pain can be really disabling and have severe impacts on your mental and physical health. In fact, studies continue to show the neuro- chemical links between chronic pain and anxiety/ depression. If you’ve ever studied the knee jerk reflex, you’ll know that every sensation in our body travels from your nerves to your brain for ‘assessment’.

Simply put, your brain decides if something is painful or not. But before your head starts to hurt, there is hope. As well as physiotherapy, craniosacral therapy (CST) can help. CST is a gentle, hands on treatment which is excellent for settling that nervous system and helping you to relax, reduce your brain’s response to pain and generally improving wellbeing.

2) You hold the key to your recovery.

Much as we love our clients, we don’t want to see anyone three times a week forever- we want you to get better and get on with your lives! Luckily, physiotherapists are experts in prescribing the correct rehabilitation exercises and pain management techniques to help you do that. Add in Clinical Pilates, where the correct exercises post assessment can help reset some of the neural changes mentioned above.

Studies show that patient self-management of pain (rather than relying solely on massage and manual treatments) predicts a better rate of recovery. So let us assess what’s really driving your pain and work with you to achieve the best results for you.

3) Your muscles may need re-education In physiotherapy research and education, the buzz-words of the past few years have been ‘motor control’. Motor control means your muscles’ ability to control your movement-

SE RVIC ES Physiotherapy • 1:1 Pilates • Craniosacral therapy Q UALIFICATION S BSc. (Hons) Physio., MSc. Sport & Exercise Medicine, AHPRA registered.

WE AC CEPT

Private Patients, Medicare Plans, Workers compensation and Motor accident claims, pre-employment assessments, Department of Veterans Affairs. HiCaps available for instant rebate claiming.

NO REFERRAL NEEDED www.wellnessembodiedcairns.com

CairnsLife 83 Magazine

LIFE Medical whether you’re in standing, bending, sitting or any number of positions. Studies are finding that poor movement patterns (perhaps due to pain or poor lifting techniques, for example) and postures over time are contributing more and more to pain and dysfunction. Deeper stabilising muscles are often ‘shut down’ by pain or overactivity within the more superficial (yet quickly fatiguing) bigger muscles. This leads to a vicious cycle where the wrong muscles work for the task, pulling your joints into unusual and aggravating positions, which then creates further pain. We can stop this pattern using manual therapy to settle pain, followed by a graded specific exercise program to get your muscles working the way they should again.

4) Many painkillers won’t help you.

If you’re a regular follower of the news you’ll have heard about several studies of recent months which demonstrated that painkillers are all but useless in treating many of the pains for which they are prescribed. We will often advise you to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about anti- inflammatories and other pain medications in your time of need, however you shouldn’t despair if they don’t work. Wellness Embodied physiotherapist Suzanne Rath uses a combination of foam rolling, medical acupuncture, yoga and meditation to manage her own headaches.

These are just some of the options we can educate you in, in addition to providing quick relief from hands-on techniques in clinic.

5) Don’t give up.

Generally chronic pain requires a multifacted, individualised approach. Daily relaxation, whether through meditation or any number of other activities, can help. So too can proper diet, sleep, hydration, gentle walks, spending time with loved ones- the list goes on. Some people will obtain relief from alternative therapies, others from medications.

It’s important to see your doctor to out-rule any serious causes of pain, but remember that most of the time there won’t be one- your pain is probably completely normal and you’ll be able to recover and manage well in time!

For more information, go to www.wellnessembodiedcairns.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ wellnessembodiedhealth Or call Suzanne on 0488 588 670 / Email info@wellnessembodiedhealth.com

MYTH BUSTING Ever wanted to know...?

r Do schools have quotas fo s the number of Catholic or non-Catholics they accept? assessed on its No, each enrolment is lment criteria. merits against the enro ve large Many of our schools ha m numbers of students fro nds. non-Catholic backgrou

Do you have to be Catho to a Catholic schoo lic to go l?

The deman

d for places in many Ca tholic schools, particularly in the Cairn s area, has never been higher. You don’t have to be a Cath olic to enrol. Although preference is given to students of the Catholic faith, parti cu larly those active in their Pa rishes, our schools are open to all who seek and support our values. For enrolm en t priority, visit www.cns.catholic .edu.au/enrolling/whocan-enrol

WOW! if we can afford kindy, we can afford a Catholic school!

When should I apply?

Is it expensive to go to a Catholic SCHOOdaLbl?e option for

n an affor Catholic schools remai ntly our families are pleasa most families. Many of ol e cost of a Catholic scho surprised to find that th t en nd of a private or indepe is much less than that mily can afford school. In fact if your fa d we can afford our fees. An u yo es fe n rte ga er nd ki in genuine financial have options for those for tomatic fee discounts difficulty, including au d Fin s. d health care card holders of means-teste g/ atholic.edu.au/enrollin out more at www.cns.c fees-and-discounts

Enrolment procedures are managed individually by schools.

It is best to contact the Catholic schools yo u are interested in to enquire about when to apply for that school. You’ll find the co ntact details for all Catholic schools and co lleges here www.cns.catholic.edu. au/our-schools/ catholic-schools-in-the -cairns-region

www.cns.catholic.edu.au

2018 Enrolment Applications welcome

Ph: 4039 5200

www.standrewscc.qld.edu.au

LIFE Education

CairnsLife 86 Magazine

LIFE Motoring

EXPERT SMASH REPAIRS IN CAIRNS Come and see the team for all your insurance and private vehicle body and paint work.

We specialise in insurance work on all makes and models of vehicles. No job too small or too big.

SOUTHSIDE - 07 4055 4470 • 57 Swallow Road, Edmonton www.asrcollision.com.au

NO BOOKING REQUIRED EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS • ALL MAKES AND MODELS

1AAP Motoring - 417 Mulgrave Road | 1AAP Service Hotline: 07 4033 1777

CairnsLife 87 Magazine

1AP02582-SERVICE CNSLIFE MAY

No need to book in to fix that rattle, clank, or blinking service light.

Just drive in to 1AAP Service Centre and driveaway with one less thing to do today.

LIFE Motoring

IF BEAR GRYLLS & JAMES BOND

HAD A LOVE CHILD… It seems that not a week goes by in FNQ when I don’t find myself debating the merits of crossovers and off-roaders. It seems rather apt that in April Holden has revealed the next step in the evolution of one of Australia’s best-loved vehicles, with confirmation the adventure-ready, stylishly rugged next-generation Commodore Tourer will be eating up Australian roads (and offroads) from 2018.

With its bush-walk meets fashion week styling, Commodore Tourer is the sleek, sporty alternative for adventure loving buyers. Purposeful styling and sophisticated driving technology combines with practicality to give a whole new dimension to Commodore’s appeal.

“The next-generation Commodore Tourer gives the range a new level of appeal, combining Australia’s love for SUVs

with the practicality of a wagon and the driving appeal of a sedan. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, or just like the idea of being one, the Commodore Tourer gives our range a new dimension” said Holden’s Director - Communications, Sean Poppitt.

“Commodore Tourer comes with a hightech AWD system and also lets customers select specific driving modes, giving them the flexibility to be able to get off the beaten track – whether that’s finding secluded camp spots, quiet surf beaches or boutiques in Bondi.”

Built almost 110mm and 20mm longer than its Commodore and Commodore Sportwagon siblings respectively, Commodore Tourer also rides with 20mm additional ground clearance and 40/20/40 seat splits combining practicality with a powerful road presence.

CairnsLife 88 Magazine

A prominent landscape grille and slim headlamps provide a wide horizontal impression, while the silver colored skid plate adds to create a strong, athletic stance. Offroad focused black lower fascia and wheel arch protection join additional adventure cues, such as roof rails as standard and dual exhaust bezels that reinforce the lower and wider impression.

Working hand-in-hand with the AWD is the driver mode preference which change the driving behavior of their car at the push of a button. The driver mode preference allows the driver to switch the Commodore Tourer into ‘Sports’ mode and changes the calibration settings for the vehicle’s steering, AWD system and transmission for a more direct, sporty feel.

Drop in to Ireland Holden for more info, who knows where you may end up!