Classic Agenda Heroes

A G E N D A

H E R O E S

ISSUE 25 2021

Celebrating 100 years of the Spirit of Australia qantas.com/100

It lives in a robotics engineer called Lili.

It lives in every line of her code.

In every tiny mistake found.

In every solution written.

Clever lives in every late night.

Every scrunched-up calculation.

Clever means we’re ready.

To take on the challenges.

Clever knows what’s around the corner.

And because clever lives here, Can lives here.

Lili, robotic engineer.

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T H E T I E S T H AT B I N D T R U E M AT E S

B A N G A L AY B R I L L I A N T A T R U LY W O R L D - C L A S S R E T R E AT B OA S T I N G A L L T H E T R I M M I N G S F R O M T H E S PA R K L I N G WAT E R S O F S E V E N M I L E B E AC H

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MICHELLE ROSS T H E P O W E R O F CO M M U N I T Y

STEVIE-LEE BOUNADER

T E A R S T H AT I N S P I R E D A P H O E N I X

B L U E M O U N TA I N UNIQUE

A C H I C CO N S E R VAT I O N R E T R E AT, LO C AT E D T W O -A N D -A- H A L F H O U R S ’ DRIVE FROM SYDNEY

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Grant C a i r n s

E X E C U T I V E G E N E R A L M A N A G E R , R E G I O N A L A G R I B U S I N E S S B A N K I N G , C O M M O N W E A LT H B A N K

For more than 106 years, CommBank has shared a long and rich association with Australian farmers, regional businesses and the communities they serve. Our goal has always been to support every Australian and business to thrive in the good times, and stand with them during difficulty.

Without question, 2020 has been a year of many ups and downs for regional Australia, but I know our customers and communities are resilient and determined to bounce back.

Embedded deep within these regional communities is where you’ll find some of the country’s greatest unsung heroes; mothers, wives, daughters and sisters 8 | CL ASSIC MAGA ZINE

– all quietly rebuilding families, businesses and communities after a devastating year of bushfires, floods, droughts and coronavirus.

It’s these influential and inspiring women we’re proud to support. Through our collaboration with Classic Agenda 2021, we’re pleased to share their incredible stories of supporting local, contributing to the community, and showcasing the unwavering Australian spirit of simply getting things done.

At CommBank, we share these values, and believe in celebrating the significant contribution of rural and regional Australian women to our society; not just on International Women’s Day, but every day.

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F R O M K I L LC A R E ’ S P R E T T Y B E AC H H O U S E TO T H E R E D C E N T R E , F R O M T H E B LU E M O U N TA I N S TO T H E V I N E YA R D S O F T H E B A R O S S A A N D M A R G A R E T R I V E R TO T H E T I P O F TA S S I E

THE HOMECOMING COON A BA R A B R A N A F TER 55 YE A R S

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ON THE LAND WITH THE THREE MUSKETEERS

Z A R A K I N G - A T R U E I N S P I R AT I O N

A M AG I C A L B Y R O N B AY G E TAWAY

2020 - A N E PIC Y E A R F R O N T L I N E H E R O E S S TA N D TO G E T H E R

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T H E R E A L E XC I T E M E N T M AC H I N E D R O P S I N O N KANGAROO ISLAND

T H E S Y M B O L O F A N AT I O N B U R N S B U T R E CO V E R S

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TONY HEWIT T A T R U E A U S S I E V I S I O N A RY

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Pip

h a r r i s o n H E AD OF TOU RISM AUS TR AL IA

R A L L Y I N G

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t does not need the head of Tourism Australia to tell you that Australian tourism is doing it tough at the moment.

After drought and bushfires, we’ve then been hit by the impact of coronavirus. Natural disasters and extreme weather events are things we are at least familiar with here in Australia. But COVID-19 has challenged us in ways we have not had to deal with been before - the lockdowns, the physical distancing, the stop-start border re-openings and closings.

These things have taken their toll. Now more than ever, Australia and Australians need a holiday. For many tourism operators, domestic tourism is providing a lifeline, keeping their heads above water and their business afloat until international travellers return.

That is why getting our internal borders re-opened again has been so critical. And why Tourism Australia is sending such a strong rallying cry to those Australians who can, to holiday at home.

With the resumption of international travel still some way off, this has never been more important.

This importance is borne out in the numbers. In normal times, domestic tourism accounts for about two-thirds of our visitor economy, with Australians spending more than $80 billion on overnight trips and more than $26 billion on day trips.

Domestic tourism alone may not be able to fill the vacuum of lost international tourism, but more Australians travelling domestically is delivering billions of much needed revenue to our industry operators.

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We are already seeing this coming through in the official visitor data provided by Tourism Research Australia (TRA). Whilst domestic numbers are of course well down on the same period a year ago, month by month they are improving.

It is not just about taking a holiday. It is about holidaying differently. Not just visiting destinations but actively experiencing them. Taking a tour, staying over in a hotel, trying out a few local tourism experiences. That way, those tourism regions and communities that need the financial injection most, benefit.

We are all guilty of neglecting our own backyards and the fact that some of our greatest tourism experiences lie so close to our own doorstep. And so, one of the positive consequences of the international travel shutdown has been the opportunity it has provided for Australians to reconnect with their own country.

Enforced or otherwise, COVID-19 has given us a chance to reacquaint ourselves with our often-unheralded domestic treasures.

Many people are using this time to tick off some travel items they may have previously prioritised lower down their bucket lists.

It is a great reminder that we are an extraordinary country, blessed with so many unique places to explore and wonderful experiences to enjoy.

For me, it has also been a reaffirmation of that uniquely Australian lifestyle that is still the envy of the world – embodied through simple pleasures like a morning surf, a family road-trip or a bushwalk. It has also been a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with our families.

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And don’t get me wrong, the ‘rock and the reef ’ are awe-inspiring places to visit and truly world-class. But, in truth, they only begin to scratch the surface of what Australia has to offer domestic travellers. Think about a rainforest walk in the Daintree, swimming with whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef, experiencing our rich Indigenous culture first-hand in Arnhem Land, a hiking trip on Lord Howe Island or Cradle Mountain... the list just goes on and on.

To the many Australians less acquainted with their backyard, we are saying take another look. We think you will be pleasantly surprised at what you will find.

Without in any way underestimating the challenges that lie ahead for our industry, I am quite optimistic about the future. It may not feel like it right now, but there are better days ahead.

Nobody truly knows exactly what post-COVID travel will look like, but I think we should look at the current crisis as a ‘reset’ moment. I am convinced there will be opportunities for destinations that are ready and able to take them.

This is Australia’s opportunity to build back better. We have the chance to reshape ourselves as a destination and create a legacy for generations of travellers to come. That is certainly the attitude and approach we are taking at Tourism Australia as we consider the steps needed to be successful and sustainable into the future.

To t he many Australians less acquainted wit h t heir backyard, we are saying take anot her look.

We t hink you will be pleasant ly surprised at what you will find.

And with overseas travel off the table for a while longer, there is a big opportunity to redirect offshore spending by Australians towards our domestic tourism industry. Australians took 10 million overseas trips last year, spending $65 billion. That is around $20 billion more than the total amount spent by all of Australia’s international visitors during the same period.

For 10 years, Tourism Australia has been telling the world there’s nothing like Australia. Now we need to extend that message to more Australians. This is as much an education exercise as a marketing one. Notwithstanding the year we have had, Australia is a highly desirable destination. We consistently sit at the top of most international travellers’ wish lists. And, for those visitors who do come Down Under, exit surveys show the trip invariably exceeds their expectations.

It is interesting when you compare the list of most popular Australian destinations visited by international visitors against those visited by Australians. Icons such as Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef score highly with international visitors, but do not even make the Top 20 list of domestic travellers. It’s an odd discrepancy, but also an opportunity.

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The secret to that success is all around us. Australia’s natural isolation, spectacular nature, and wide-open spaces have never been more precious and desirable thanks to COVID. Our natural environment has long been a destination strength for Australia and a key driver for the record-breaking visitor numbers we have enjoyed in recent years. So too our unique and rich Indigenous history. As we move beyond this crisis, we must look to leverage both these assets.

One of the significant changes that we have seen in consumer behaviour because of the COVID-19 outbreak is, unsurprisingly, a heightened awareness around health and physical distancing.

The desire to seek out less crowded destinations and nature-based experiences is a trend that I see increasing and where Australia is well placed to succeed.

With more travellers wanting to reduce their environmental footprint and give back as part of their travel, adopting a more thoughtful and sustainable approach towards tourism presents an exciting opportunity for Australian tourism.

We already have a strong record here, including pioneering work in eco-tourism. We must continue to innovate and, where we can, raise the bar, developing high-quality and authentic visitor experiences that draw upon the unique strengths of Australia’s people and place.

When it comes to celebrating its Indigenous history which other destination can claim they are home to the oldest living culture on Earth. Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their stories are rich and diverse and provide Australian tourism with a competitive advantage.

Interest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and consumer demand for authentic Indigenous tourism experiences is rising but I really do believe there is potential to do more to increase awareness, understanding and uptake of Indigenous tourism experiences amongst our visitors.

2020 was certainly not the year we expected not would have wished for. But travel has always been a great healer and we will recover, rebuild, and grow again.

The events celebrated empowering Australian women, punctuated by the finale of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and a live concert headlined by Katie Perry, all with some 90,000 in attendance. In collaboration with the ICC event company, we were the last to deliver an event of this size anywhere in the world.

The following day, little did I know that we would experience a tsunami of coronavirus chasing me from Sydney to Doha, Montreal, Iceland, Paris, and London. As all airports, hotels and restaurants were to be locked down behind me, I had to simply cancel meeting after meeting and somehow get back home.

It is common knowledge that the hospitality industry was one of the worst industries hit and this would also create a fatal blow to the publishing world.

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PU B LISH ER S NOTE

here does one start to summarise a calamity that engulfed not only our business but our planet.

It’s times like this that I believe I need to create my own time capsule as my grandchildren will no doubt hear of 2020, a perfect script for a movie or book.

It was on Wednesday March 4, 2020, that I embarked on a weeklong roadshow delivering our latest International Women’s Day book, Agenda 2020, across Sydney and Melbourne including two portrait galleries and two 100-seat luncheons.

Published and Produced by Phil Harte - Harte International Sub Editor Nick Nichols Creative Direction & Design Martha Clegg Photographic Editor Waded Contributing Photographers Tony Hewitt, Danielle Harte, Cameron Bloom, Cate Campbell, Zara King Nicole Bond, Trina Patterson, Rachel Bach, Jen Cooper, Jacqueline Curley Social Media Editor Tayla Harte Feature Writers Sandra Sully, Nicole Bond, Daniel Resnik Support Team Ryley Harte, Anna Gardiner, Robertas Rekašius, Steven Fitzroy, Gary Cowan, Nicola Burford, Peter McSherry,

Thanks to the amazing photographic library of Danielle Harte, our Classic Lifestyle book, now celebrating 25 years, has told its final story as we know it and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than to headline not only our magnificent country but to include our many heroes via a collaboration with our very own International Women’s Day book, Agenda 2021.

Classic Agenda Heroes is now front and centre boasting all things travel, adventure and heroism within our shores.

Australians have faced unprecedented carnage in 2020, enduring unforgiving drought, floods and bushfires of biblical proportions, not to mention the trail of economic devastation. If that wasn’t enough, let’s fold into the mix a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic.

The Classic devotes its pages to celebrating the amazing resilience shown by our nation, recalling the human struggle, heartache and anguish suffered and still endured. Enjoy Classic Agenda Heroes.

-Phil Harte

Thank you Commonwealth Bank Australia Grant Cairns Tourism Australia Pip Harrison Hyatt Regency Sydney Jane Lyons Hyatt Hotels and Resorts Kate Atkinson Audi Sutherland John Polito Victorinox Sandra Furer Sheldon and Hammond Roger Seamark Thrifty Shirley Field Canon Australia Qantas Qatar Airways Quest Apartment Hotels David Mansfield Icon Group Michelle Slaughter oOh!media Brendan Cook Luxury Lodges of Australia Sean Connolly Bangalay Villas Nikstar Niki White Cactus Imaging Kietth Ferrel Jacobs Creek Vittoria Coffee Bose Australia Swagman Australia Technogym

Classic Lifestyle Magazine is published by Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE use due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine but are not responsible for any mistakes, misprints, omissions or typographical errors. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE print advertisements provided to the publisher but give no warranty and make no representation as to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE accept no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly, or in part, upon any description, photograph or statement contained herein. Harte International Consultancy Dubai UAE reserve the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. ©Copyright – no part of Classic Lifestyle Magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher. No spam. Email addresses are published for professional communications only and do not constitute an invitation to send unsolicited emails.

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Sandra s u l l y

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FOREWORD

elcome to Classic Agenda Heroes 2021, where we celebrate Internationa l Women’s Day.

This is always an important time to reflect on what women want; what are we still hoping to achieve and how do we get there.

And while that is an important focus, the calamitous events of recent times in Australia bushfires, floods, drought and COVID-19 - have prompted a timely pivot.

This year we are sharing the stories of some extraordinary Aussie women whose remarkable courage, survival and resilience have not only inspired us, but helped define us through some of our darkest times.

They are our unsung heroes.

For too long their efforts have been largely overlooked, or only seen through the prism of the men around them.

For too long they have been the invisible backbone of our nation.

These women represent the tens of thousands, just like them, who have all simply put their heads down, without accolade or fanfare, and got on with the job at hand.

They are the indestructible thread that is the lifeblood of our communities, yet their kinship and enduring spirit have enriched us all.

I can’t imagine where would we be without them.

History rarely acknowledges the quieter souls around us, whose determination and grit paves the way for those who follow, yet I hope these stories from a fascinating group of women, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, will empower you.

Classic Agenda Heroes is our way of acknowledging how grateful we are for their enduring efforts, their tireless struggles, their lessons and their wisdoms.

On behalf of so many, we say thank you.

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DAME

Quentin b r y c e

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P R EFACE

t’s jacaranda time in Brisbane, already hot summer days, purple blossoms falling across the lawns as the year draws to its last weeks, a year to be seared into our memories like no other.

Lockdowns are lifting, hope and optimism surfacing, but anxiety and uncertainty linger still.

How could we ever have imagined, my friends, what was ahead of us as we gathered in Sydney for the joyous celebration of IWD 2020. It was just two days later that Australia’s 100th diagnosis of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) was made. Life was to change for everyone in every corner of the world.

As I write these words I am mindful of the loss and longing, the deep sadness and suffering of so many; friends, families, little ones, fellow Australians of every generation, but I know in my heart we will come through this pandemic wiser, stronger, kinder and grateful.

Nobody, but nobody will be left untouched.

Our International Women’s Day 2021 will be different, a deeper reflection, a greater focus on service, selflessness and accomplishment.

The lovely traditions of sisterhood and solidarity will shine, the bread and the roses, the storytelling will go on.

We will mark up the progress that has been made in advancing equality of opportunity and the achievements of our proud women’s movement across every field.

The jois de vivre in our coming together recharges our batteries and invigorates our spirits so we face the challenges of our long struggle for gender equality with confidence and grit.

Agenda has chosen women who have served our community, our country on the frontline on IWD 2021, thousands of extraordinary contributions, generosity, hard work, commitment, sacrifice in spades.

It’s been a harrowing year; drought, bushfires, pandemic. Through the summer (2019/20) 17 million hectares burned across NSW, Queensland, ACT and WA, 33 people died, homes burnt to the ground, one billion animals killed. Women volunteers responded to take on every role as emergency workers, helping neighbours,

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as firefighters, truck drivers, taking risks, putting others first, tending koalas, comforting strangers…. strong, daring. They stopped at nothing. Who could ever forget those frightening fires of unbelievable scale on our screens day and night. Oh, the fear – you could sense it. Oh, the smell of smoke. The unceasing noise, fluttering wisps of burnt leaves floating across the darkened sky and on sea and sand. Recovery is slow and painful as women push on, rebuilding homes, lives, families, supporting each other as they can be counted on to do.

As we settled into 2020 getting back to the patterns, the rhythms of daily life after holidays, kids back to school … reports of a dangerous virus were gaining momentum. On March 12, 2020 the World Health Organisation (WHO) made it official, declaring COVID-19 a pandemic.

Our hospitals and health services swung into action. Healthcare workers, nurses, doctors, aged care staff, allied health professionals, radiographers, the list is long, were on notice. In the International Year of Nurse and Midwife, qualities inherent in nursing, service to others, care for humanity, compassion, connectedness, clinical professionalism shone. Many who had left their vocation volunteered to return. There was a desperate need.

Women have a proud history in the healthcare industry. COVID made their worksites, hospitals and aged care homes, places where they were no longer safe. Thousands caught the disease.

Face masks, face shields, full body personal protective equipment (PPE) – hat and glove, were necessary barriers but they reduced personalised care.

The pressure of the pandemic has been immense on the frontline.

The random nature of it made some fearful.

To quote one nurse: “If it means putting our lives at risk, we will do that. That’s part of the job.” Exhaustion, confusion, guilt, sadness, horrific, scary were day-to-day emotions and experiences.

Yes, heroes whose dedication, skill and professionalism we honour on IWD 201.

Women on the frontline. Courage, inspiration, support.

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Wendy

M c C a r t h y

A O

A S A T R A I L B L A ZI N G L E A D ER FO R WO M EN I N A N U M B ER O F SEC TO R S , W EN DY M CC A RT H Y ' S SPECI FIC SKI L L S B EC A M E OBVIOUS TO THOSE WHO WORKED WITH H ER . ALONG W I T H B E I N G R E C O G N I S E D F O R H E R A B I L I T Y TO N E G OT I AT E S U P P O R T A C R O S S B R O A D C O A L I T I O N S , W E N DY D E V E L O P E D A R E P U TAT I O N F O R B E I N G 'A S A F E PA I R O F H A N D S ' PA R T I C U L A R LY AT T H E H E L M O F O R G A N I S AT I O N S T H AT N E E D E D TO U N D E R G O C H A N G E .

T H E C H A L L E N G E S H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T - H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

I become very pragmatic when faced with drought, bushfire and pandemic. I try to keep as healthy and fit as possible, eat well and drink less alcohol in case I have to drive in the middle of the night as I did when the police opened the Princes Highway for our family to return to Sydney. It helps me stay focused and reduces the active fear of circumstances beyond my control.

I also pay a lot of attention to experts, particularly police, Rural Fire Service and ABC Radio reports. None of these agencies has any reason to tell us anything but the truth as they see it through experienced eyes and we are reliant on them.

With COVID 19, I isolated for over four months and acknowledge I am an older woman in the risk group and therefore must be very diligent.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPIRIT?

I love the way Australians on the frontline managed the issues.

The Aussie spirit shone through - always hoping for the best, planning for the worst and being kind and optimistic under pressure. Histories of outstanding bravery under pressure are reinforced by everyday acts of kindness. And no one taking the limelight and claiming credit, thus making it seem normal.

So often in emergencies, Aussies reveal their better selves. It is inspirational.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

Communities are places where I live. For the last 50 years I have lived in both rural and urban communities simultaneously as my husband was a beef producer and I was a city worker. I found it an enriching experience and since his death I have deeply missed our farm. It has been replaced to some extent by a beach cottage where our family gathers. I also belong to communities of ideas and beliefs I share with many people around feminism, activism, sustaining our environment and the rights of children. There is some confluence in these groups, but also differences we respect and learn to live with.

Belonging to more than one intellectual community is enriching.

It is always good to drink from more than one well.

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U THROUGH?

A faith in the common humanity of our community frontliners doing their best. With pandemic issues, knowing there was a role for me to play and to ensure I understood my responsibilities for good self-care.

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F THROUGH THIS ORDEAL?

I don’t panic in a crisis. Over a long life I have developed the skills of staying calm and focused and perhaps there was a feeling that my life has been good and I should accept what came my way.

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bloom i n

f u l l

FA M I LY I S AT T H E H E A R T O F S A M B L O O M ’ S F I G H T I N G S P I R I T. A F T E R A L I F E - S H AT T E R I N G I N J U R Y W H I L E H O L I D AY I N G IN THAIL AND IN 2013, THE WORLD CHAMPION CANOIST'S A C H I E V E M E N T S A R E A N I N S P I R AT I O N TO A L L .

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SAM AND CAMERON BLOOM

IF THERE IS ANY TIME THAT WE NEED MOTIVATION OR INSPIRATION, IT’S NOW AS WE CREEP CLOSER TO THE END OF 2020, A YEAR WE ALL WANT TO FORGET. IT WAS ON A CRYSTAL-CLEAR NORTHERN BEACHES MORNING THAT I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET UP WITH SAM AND HER HUSBAND CAMERON BLOOM, NESTLED IN A BUNGALOW JUST A STONE’S THROW FROM NEWPORT BEACH. IT WAS DURING OUR SHOOT THAT WE REALLY UNDERSTOOD WHAT CHALLENGES WERE ALL ABOUT AND, FROM THEN, MY PERSPECTIVE CHANGED. THIS REMARKABLE WOMAN AND HER FAMILY LEFT ME SPEECHLESS AND ALL THAT I CAN SAY IS TO PLEASE RACE OUT AND BUY SAM’S BOOK, HEARTACHE & BIRDSONG. IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE. THE EXCITING NEWS IS THAT THE MOVIE WILL BE RELEASED IN EARLY 2021. AGAIN, GET A TICKET!

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

Following news of my accident, our local community was absolutely incredible in terms of support and compassion.

Community means people being there for each other through the good and the bad and helping any way they can. Our community was extraordinary in terms of providing meals, people coming to clean our house and, of course, helping Cameron with our three boys while I was still in hospital. We are incredibly fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community and would have really struggled without their support.

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U T H R O U G H ?

Without question my accident has been the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with in my life. Of course, my family and close friends were the catalyst in helping me come to terms with my new reality. I honestly would not be here if it hadn’t been for Cameron and my boys. Another thing that did help me get through is the fact that I have always been pretty stoic and determined. I did not want to let my boys down by giving up, so I tried to be a strong as I could, not that this was always successful, but I was determined to try. The love I have for my boys definitely helped me get through the most horrific time of my life.

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F THROUGH THIS ORDEAL?

I have learnt that I am more courageous and braver than I thought I was and incredibly patient. The one thing which resonates with me is how fortunate I am to have done everything I wanted to do and followed my dreams and passions before my accident. I always encourage people now to follow their dreams. Don’t put them on hold because you never know what tomorrow may bring.

I have also learnt how your life can be enriched by accepting unconditional love from others and how much of a positive impact it has had on me after my accident. I’ve also realised that its okay to ask for help. It’s not a sign of weakness.

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PHOTO: CAMERON BLOOM C L A S S I C A G E N D A H E R O E S E D I T I O N 2 0 2 1 | 27

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S O U T H

W A L E S

RIVER WATERS CREATE MESMERISING PATTERNS ON THE NORTHERN NSW COAST 30,38.83S 153,0.45E

PHOTO:

To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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UNIQUE b l u e

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m o u n t a i n

T H E W E E K E N D G E TA W AY M A R K E T W I T H I N A U S T R A L I A H A S S I M P LY S K Y R O C K E T E D A N D T H E G R E AT N E W S I S T H AT O U R L U X U R Y I N T E R N AT I O N A L O U T B O U N D C O N S U M E R W O N ’ T M I S S A B E AT.

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uxury Lodges of Australia boasts over a dozen of some of the most spectacular regional experiences, on a par with anything on offer around the world. Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is a chic conservation retreat, located two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Sydney in the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains region. Nestled amongst 7,000 acres of protected wilderness and surrounded by two national parks, the resort immerses you in nature and reinvigorates the soul.

Occupying just one per cent of the total land area, 40 freestanding federation-style villas showcase spectacular views, each with private swimming pool, double-sided fireplace and peaceful verandah.

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The Main Homestead features various dining settings including the Wolgan Dining Room, the Country Kitchen, the Valley Bar & Terrace Lounge and a walk-in wine cellar. Inspired by the natural environment, the food philosophy celebrates seasonal, organic produce sourced from regional farmers and vintners. The menu changes seasonally and many ingredients come from the resort’s very own kitchen garden.

The resort’s unique blend of native wildlife, dramatic landscapes and heritage can be explored through a range of epic outdoor activities including hiking, four-wheel driving, mountain biking and horse riding along hidden trails, sparkling creeks and epic ridgelines.

Guests are also invited to get hands-on with important conservation work. For those seeking relaxation, the One&Only Spa is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself with a pampering spa treatment or outdoor yoga session. This is Australia at its finest.

A Blue Mountains luxury escape, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley has received multiple awards and accolades, particularly for its work in conservation and sustainability.

The resort offers a unique blend of seclusion, native wildlife, dramatic natural beauty, conservation and heritage, combined with unsurpassed luxury facilities and outstanding food and wine.

True luxury and uniquely Australian experiences in a spectacular bush setting within a secluded valley in the heart of the Australian wilderness, Wolgan Valley celebrates the natural, cultural and scenic values of the Greater Blue Mountains.

From the bustling Sydney CBD to the foot of the spectacular Blue Mountains and up to Wolgan Valley, you will stop off for a few scones and coffee at Katoomba before arriving on site, in under two hours.

ONE &ONLY WOLGAN VALLEY 2600 Wolgan Rd, Wolgan Valley, New South Wales oneandonlyresorts.com

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T H E C H A L L E N G E S O F 2 02 0 H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T – H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

2020 has certainly thrown us some unique challenges.

As a new leader of an emergency services agency, the year has really tested me professionally and personally.

But no challenge is too great when you have the support of a team and good people around you.

C a r l e n e Y o r k A P S M COMMISSIONER OF NSW SES

A F T E R A D E C O R AT E D C A R E E R W O R K I N G WIT H N S W P O L I CE , C A R L EN E YO R K A P SM WA S

D

APPOINTED COMMISSIONER OF NSW SES IN N OV E M B E R 2 019.

uring her law enforcement career, which spanned almost 40 years, Carlene York specialised in people leadership. She has managed large, complex business units, providing strategic leadership and direction in the areas of human capital, forensics, policy development, operational planning, emergency management response and delivery of frontline police response. Although her policing career saw Carlene achieve many noteworthy accomplishments, one clear highlight was leading the strike force which led to the capture of Australia’s most wanted offender, Malcolm Naden, in 2012.

In taking the position as NSW SES Commissioner, Carlene became not only the first female to lead the agency in its 65-year history, but the first female to lead an emergency services agency in NSW – something she is incredibly proud of.

Born and raised in Wagga Wagga, NSW, Carlene has strong rural ties and a deep sense of community. Her extensive career in emergency services has led to a unique understanding of the vital role volunteers play in protecting local communities.

She is strongly committed to enhancing NSW SES capabilities, growing volunteerism numbers and awareness, and ensuring organisational values best support the communities the NSW SES serves.

One of her passions is looking after the mental health and wellbeing of others. As an ex-police officer who has supported many NSW Police Force members affected by serious cases, she understands wholeheartedly the personal impacts responding to an emergency can have. It is her ambition to support everyone across the NSW SES and ensure their mental health and wellbeing is well maintained.

As the NSW Government’s COVID-19 restrictions ease over time, Carlene is looking forward to getting out on the road and meeting with units across the state.

In emergency services, you can’t do things on your own. The management of large-scale incidents is a team effort and I am incredibly proud of those within the SES – particularly the volunteers – who have given their all and helped shoulder the workload.

Personally, I’m a big advocate for mental health and wellbeing. I believe that everyone – no matter what you do – needs that downtime with family and friends outside of work, and this only motivates you to come back refreshed and energised to concentrate on the task at hand. For me, that means setting time aside for things I enjoy, including boating, travelling (subject to COVID-19 restrictions), and spending time with family – including my gorgeous grandson.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E S C R I B E T H E AUSSIE SPIRIT ?

I believe the Aussie spirit is all about mateship and helping others in need.

At their core, Australians are genuinely selfless people. We look out for one another and immediately extend an open hand to the person next to us when we see them fall. I feel emergency services personnel and especially volunteers are perfect examples of this.

For NSW SES, we are made up of 10,000 volunteers who have taken it upon themselves to help protect communities and save lives. To be honest, you don’t get much more Australian than that – people giving their own free time and putting themselves in harm’s way without want of reward or recognition. The motivation for these volunteers is simply being able to help their fellow Australians.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D ‘ C O M M U N I T Y ’ M E A N TO YO U ?

Our NSW SES volunteers are the physical embodiment of what it means to be a community. They are the people that make up your local community; whether it be your neighbour, your local schoolteacher or even business owner. When the time calls for it, they stand up to protect those around them.

I was born and raised in the rural town of Wagga Wagga, NSW, and it instilled a strong sense of community in me. I feel this is incredibly important, especially during times such as these.

In the face of natural disasters and even pandemics, having others are around you willing to be there and support you during both the good times and the bad is vital.

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Hollie

B a k e r - b o l j k o v a c

I T W A S M Y B I R T H D AY T H E D AY T H E F I R E S C A M E TO T H E PA D D O CK B EH I N D O U R P L ACE . I ' D A L R E A DY E VA C U AT E D W I T H M Y C H I L D R E N , A N D T H E M O S T I M P O R TA N T T H I N G I C O U L D D O AT T H AT T I M E WA S TO B E WITH TH E CH I L DREN , ENSU RE TH E Y WERE O K AY, P H Y S I C A L LY A N D E M O T I O N A L LY.

W

e'd attended the community meeting where the captain of the RFS told us there weren't enough people on the ground; resources weren't coming from anywhere else, and the worst-case scenario was a highly likely outcome. The undeniable message was: “We've only got each other.”

I'm a counsellor in private practice, and through those weeks I continued to attend anyone who needed to check in. I provided free services to those who couldn't afford sessions. I wrote articles and posted reminders about selfcare. In the beginning, this was the best use of my time.

After more than a month of mayhem, and Christmas had passed, I knew my children were sound enough to be left with others, and the community was in a strange state of being almost comfortable with the uncomfortable.

I jumped on the back of my husband's truck in the Mozzie Fleet, an amazing gang of personal utes and 4WDs, rigged up with turbo pumps, garden hoses and spare tyres. Our job was to grab spot fires when they pop into paddocks or house yards, back up the RFS but stay out of their way. It was a motley costuming of bandanas, smoke masks, head scarves, jeans and flannies. Friendships formed over sharing jerky, water bottles and snacks donated by the community.

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PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

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I'd never before stood in front of a wall of fire. I'd never experienced how fast it could move through a paddock or the sound of a tree exploding from the heat. Like everyone else, I'd seen the videos and heard the stories. Going out there I didn't know how I would respond.

My day job is talking to people who were overwhelmed at a time when they had less internal resources available.

That's the definition of trauma, and my theory was that if I entered the field with a focus on resilience and self-care, and a self-determination to be useful, I would hopefully be able to show up to whatever happened. Sometimes it was scary.

Other times it was adventurous and exciting and inspiring.

Togetherness is a resource for resilience and knowing that we were all out there working as a community, protecting what mattered, was a form of nourishment amid the epic things we did and saw.

I reflected on what it means to be a functional, resilient human. Grateful for the years of learning about selfregulation, mindfulness, movement and general health, it helped to stay strong in all the ways. When I stood on the back of the truck, surrounded by burning paddock, or watching the mountains explode, waiting to see if the wind would change, I utilised techniques for presence and focus and was stoked my body was strong.

As Mozzies, we were fortunate that our day ended when the wind and heat stopped. While we were coming together over a meal and eventful stories, others were on duty without a significant break. A tree trunk can smoulder for weeks and reignite when least expected. This is the unglamorous work of firefighting, and we helped with 'wetting down' areas as much as we could. In respect to safety and longevity, these non-action jobs were often the best way to use Mozzie power.

Now so many months later, I'm grateful that the community we created throughout the fires is still a resource for one another. Togetherness continues.

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g l e n d a

and

n i c k y

b r a t c h e r c l a r k e

B R A I D W O O D F I R E F I G H T E R S G L E N D A B R AT H C H E R A N D N I C K Y CLARKE WERE AMONG THE MANY WOMEN ON THE FRONT LINE B AT T L I N G O U T B R E A K S R A G I N G T H R O U G H N O R T H E R N N S W D U R I N G T H E S U M M E R O F 2 02 0. G L E N DA S H A R E S H E R S TO RY.

T

he 2019 bushfire season started for me on November 12 when I was deployed to Armidale as part of strike team Bravo.

This bushfire was the first Section 44 for the season and was declared on September 5. I started on the fire ground in the Glenn Innis and Armidale area at 7am on November 13. I completed five consecutive days on the fire ground averaging 14 hours per day. On day two, we were relocated to the border trail fire near Lismore.

Whilst fighting fires in northern NSW with strike team Bravo, there was a lot of talk predicting that the Monaro region (where I am from) would suffer extreme bushfire conditions over the upcoming summer months. This was hard to believe given that summer had not even commenced, and we were fighting massive out-of-control fires. It seemed surreal at the time, but we did not have to wait long for those predictions to become reality.

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BRAIDWOOD FIREFIGHTERS GLENDA BRATCHER AND NICKY CLARKE

PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

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I believe I have learnt more from t he black summer bushfires t han I have in 15 years as a firefigh ter.

Despite the predictions, nothing could prepare us for the devastating fires we experienced and the feeling of helplessness as houses and lives were lost, including my own brother’s house in Cobargo on the South Coast on the night of December 30.

Previously I was a believer of stay and defend, but after I saw what had happened to my brother’s house and property, I quickly changed my mind.

I believe I have learnt more from the black summer bushfires than I have in 15 years as a firefighter.

I experienced a complete blackout on January 4, 2020 at 4pm with one of the largest known pyrocumulonimbus clouds having formed over our town, Cooma.

I was deployed on several different strike teams in areas including Adaminaby, Catchcart-Tantawangalo State Forrest and the Majura fire in the ACT. During the middle of January 2020, I spent a week in the very busy Cooma Fire Control Centre in logistics for Fire and Rescue NSW. At this time, there were 15 Section 44s still active, almost four million hectares had been burnt, and over 125 days of continuous major fire operations in NSW. The worst part for me this fire season was witnessing the devastation of fires in the Cobargo area which included my brother’s house and property.

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PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

N i c k y ' s s t o r y I’ve spent eight years as a firefighter and I’ve been to many different incidents ranging from motor vehicle accidents, to house fires, to flood rescues to bushfires. I can’t say that I’ve seen it all, but I’ve definitely seen a lot. In my time as a firefighter nothing compares to the 2019/20 bushfires. Coming home from holidays in Queensland to the threat of the North Black Range fire on the doorstep of our little town was an eye opener and from there it got worse and worse for the whole state of NSW. I was working down in Ulladulla when the call came through for a house fire in Lake Conjola on New Year’s Eve. We had no idea what we were about to walk into, a firestorm like nothing I’d ever seen before. There was no visible fire front as we drove down the highway through thick smoke but as I looked out into the paddocks little pockets were just self igniting...everywhere! As we drove down the Entrance Road to Lake Conjola the fire front still hadn’t hit. Some residents were preparing themselves to stay and defend whilst others were trying to evacuate. Driving down that road is a scene I’ll never forget, because little did I know the next time I would see it, there would be nothing there. Spot fires had caused nearby bushland to ignite and, as we got closer to the point of the original call, the heat within the truck intensified. The house had already burnt to the ground by the time we got there, so we set up ready to defend the other houses that had not yet been impacted. I remember the countdown warnings across the radios advising of the weather change coming. It was such an eerie feeling, dark, hot and still. When the change hit, the fire front threw embers out creating spot fires well in advance of the main fire and gas balls were igniting throughout the air.

The radio warning for weather changes didn’t stop there, as there were a further two fire fronts that hit later that day. The bushfire created its own weather system, bringing lightning, thunder and even drops of rain at stages. In the panic to save the town of Lake Conjola anyone who was preparing to fight this fire had a tap turned on which compromised the water pressure for the whole town. It was a long, hard day. As we packed up, members of the community who had stayed to fight lent a hand or offered a cold drink. It was clear the physical and emotional burden this fire had taken on everyone. We all did what we could with the resources that were available, but in some instances that just wasn’t enough. The drive out was when the impact of this fire really hit me. We turned back onto Entrance Road and as I stared out the window I counted house after house burnt to the ground, none of which had yet been impacted on our drive in. I felt a sense of achievement for the many houses that we had helped save where we were set up, and yet at the same time a total sense of disbelief and heartache for what I was seeing as we drove out. I worked with a good crew that day, and I will never forget what we experienced.

Every time you step into that fire truck you put your trust in the people sitting next to you. I love working for Fire and Rescue NSW, I work with highly skilled people. They’re more than just co-workers; they’re mates, they’re family.

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PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

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cecily p o w e l l

B E O N T I M E , D O A G O O D J O B A N D LOV E I T, I D O !

I

first joined the RFS in October of 1998 at Shoalhaven Heads. Initially, I was in the auxiliary before a few years later applying to join the Yellows whilst still in the auxiliary and nearly eight years in palliative care.

At the same time, I felt very honoured to have them allow me to join the crew, my mates.

I found great satisfaction in handling my duties, as I was getting paid for it. Be on time, do a good job and love it – and I do. I also held the position of catering officer for a few years, working at Nowra head office during the 2000 fires, over 153 hours.

My greatest embarrassment whilst in the RFS was when we went to Berry along the railway line and, while bringing horses down a big hill, I lost my footing. I grabbed a sapling, spun around and fell into a big wombat hole. No damage to me, only my pride. There I was laughing my head off, two yellow arms and legs sticking out of the hole and a tin hat on my head - not bad for an old girl in her 70s.

It took two boys to get me out of it.

If mobile cameras were about, I would have made the front cover of the RFS magazine. I love the RFS. I’m a very lucky great, great grandmother, now 91 years young. Come join us!

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NOWRA FIREFIGHTERS REBECCA CHAPMAN AND HAYLEY DUNN 52 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

and

R e b e c c a

C h a p m a n

h a y l e y

d u n n

R E B E C C A C H A P M A N I S A R E TA I N E D F I R E F I G H T E R S TAT I O N E D AT N O W R A , N S W , F O R T H E PA S T F O U R Y E A R S . I N H E R J O B S H E H A D S E E N I T A L L , T H AT I S UNTIL THE BL ACK SUMMER HIT THE REGION .

I

have been a retained firefighter for Fire and Rescue NSW for four years based at Nowra, NSW.

In my time at Nowra 405 as a driver and pump operator on hundreds of calls, I have experienced various incidents involving residential and commercial structures, motor vehicle accidents and, being in a regional area, bushfires.

Our station can receive over 900-plus calls per year as well as community service activities and I have been on strike teams in the last few bushfire seasons heading south to assist in any way possible for Fire and Rescue NSW. The black summer fires of December 2019 and January 2020 were something I hadn’t seen or experienced before. During that time, I had been on a number of strike teams to the Milton and Ulladulla area working in property protection.

It was my last night shift on December 30, 2019 when the strike team, consisting of four fire appliances and one strike team leader, were sent to a fire staging area at Ulladulla.

When we arrived, we were advised that we need to head to Batemans Bay Fire Station and from there we headed south to Bemboka, 40km from Bega.

Our appliance was deployed for property protection in the area threatened by fire from the Brown Mountain direction north-west of Bemboka village. We spent most of our time from midnight until dawn protecting a family and their house with limited water supply. Our tanker appliance holding capacity was 3200 litres and the owner’s tank water capacity was about 20,000 litres, if it was full.

As I was the motor driver and pump operator, I knew we had to use our water wisely as there were no hydrants nearby or available appliances to refill our appliance. I was constantly checking the water level float tube, a priority, as it’s a lifeline for firefighters.

We were under the eerie darkness not only of the night but the blanket of smoke and embers from the catastrophic fire storm, accompanied by the usual sound effects associated with the 90km winds of the fire itself. Protecting our lungs from the smoke, we wore breathing apparatus. Never before in a bushfire have I had to change my cylinder twice.

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NOWRA FIREFIGHTERS REBECCA CHAPMAN, HAYLEY DUNN AND CECILY POWELL

Our strike team headed home in t he afternoon on January 1, 2020. As I was driving t hrough t he towns t hat had been affected by fire it was devastating seeing t he amount of loss to communities and t he tragic loss of life.

Around 4am the fire and wind had started to calm down and we received word that we could start packing up, but just as we started to disconnect the hoses off the back of the appliance, the wind pick up and it was round two with the threat of fire.

It was 6am and it should have been light, but it still looked like night, dark with low visibility. We got the word to move back to Bemboka village as the fire was heading that way. We met up with the other three appliances on our strike team and headed back, but on the way there were a number of trees down that we needed to move out of our way before we could get through.

As we made it into the village, we refilled the appliances tank with water and headed off for property protection on a number of houses and shops nearby.

After a long night and day, and as we left Bemboka on our way back to Bega Fire Station, we heard on the radio that the fires 54 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

north of us were in full swing. It was hard enough missing family and friends but knowing at that moment that we couldn’t head home to assist our community was even harder.

Our strike team headed home in the afternoon on January 1, 2020.

As I was driving through the towns that had been affected by fire it was devastating seeing the amount of loss to communities and the tragic loss of life. The fires in the NSW South Coast region took so much, a fierce energy that left a trail of blackness and death in its wake.

The bush can grow back but some of the scars that came from the fires may take some time to heal. As a female firefighter, I have grown from my experience with the black summer fires and understand their devastating impact. My passion for firefighting has grown, and I recommend other females to also follow their dreams.

bangalay A N

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lanning a trip to the South Coast of NSW is a true adventure, knowing that there will be plenty of old-world options, just like a trip back in a time machine - in a good way.

Seven Mile Beach spreads 12km north from Shoalhaven Heads to Gerroa the other side Kiama.

Our journey opened our eyes to what truly happened to the many communities of the South Coast. It was only a few months after the devastating bushfires of 2020 and locals throughout the region were still fighting back the tears in an attempt to rebuild their lives and businesses. Our trip was to meet up with a few local heroes from the emergency services and fire brigade and see firsthand the amazing job they were all doing.

We dropped in on the Bangalay Luxury Villas, a truly world-class retreat boasting all the trimmings from the sparkling waters of Seven Mile Beach, an 18-hole golf course on our back step and an amazing dining experience headed up by chef Brent Strong.

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Offering stunning views down the golf course to the mountains, the luxurious one-bedroom villas are stylish and well appointed. Walking out onto our own sun-filled, north-facing deck, enjoying the morning brew and watching the golfers make their way around the course, was quite relaxing in itself.

The villas are a perfect retreat for couples, boasting intimate indoor and outdoor areas designed for comfort and relaxation. Daily room refresh, air conditioning, heating, fireplace and security including keypad entry are all features of the villas.

With COVID in full swing, Bangalay Dining was in the midst of launching a new takeaway, home delivery and in-room dining menu.

Bangalay Dining head chef Brent Strong has drawn on the Asian-fusion flavours and blended Bangalay Dining’s signature use of native ingredients to create a menu specially designed to travel well and cater for the locals who are wanting something new, fresh and exciting.

There are excellent food options not far away in Gerroa, Gerringong, Berry, Kangaroo Valley and Kiama, but the resort restaurant, Bangalay Dining, which is open to the public as well as to guests, has put Shoalhaven Heads on the food map.

A sleek wooden bar runs along one side of the restaurant and sculptural native flower arrangements add drama. Chef Strong's focus on fresh local produce and his Asian flair with native ingredients provides a memorable and inventive dining experience. Try the sixcourse tasting menu with the highlights being the kangaroo, bunya bunya saltbush, and the fermented barley, black fungi, quince and brush cherry.

HEAD CHEF BRENT STRONG AND GENERAL MANAGER MICHELLE BISHOP

Bangalay is also inventive when it comes to the way the food is showcased. Dining events include a Friday night oyster experience when prized local oysters are served in different ways with paired wines or spirits.

Our overnight was a welcome surprise, one that we can highly recommend as domestic holidaying is definitely here to stay.

BANGALAY LUXURY VILLAS 30 Staples St, Shoalhaven Heads, New South Wales bangalayvillas.com.au

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

M i c h e l l e R o s s

OWNER OF THE OCEAN FITNESS GYM IN SHELLHARBOUR, NSW

D

uring the devastation of the bushfires we desperately wanted to do something to help. We reached out to our Ocean Fitness community via social media asking for support and it quickly went viral.

We leveraged our networks and contacts with local businesses and, before we knew it, we had cars pulling up outside our house every couple of minutes to hand over donations. These donations ranged from food, water, medicine, fuel and, in many cases, significant amounts of cash. Our front yard quickly became the drop-off point for people in the area looking to donate. We were absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity.

The next task was to get the supplies to the affected community down in Lake Conjola.

Again, calling on the support of our members, we were able to secure a couple of jet skis and boats (not discounting the personal time of the people prepared to pilot them).

We contacted local authorities to ensure safe delivery of the supplies as close to the people in need as humanly possible.

Within 12 hours we had over four boats full of supplies. The owners of the jet skis and boats set off early in the morning and got as far as Basin View to a drop-off zone where supplies were sorted and delivered to the affected people.

Some weeks later we ran a Chin Up for Charity fundraiser at the gym. We encouraged our members to create teams, set some challenging goals, shared them on social media and gathered sponsorship. The members worked hard to raise funds and even harder to deliver the challenge.

At $1 for every pull-up, we ended up raising just over $1500 for the locals affected by the fires.

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I

p a u l a

c o u c h m a n

K A N G A R O O VA L L E Y F U D G E H O U S E

will always remember that incredible emptiness, the fear as I stood trembling, locking the door of my little shop, not knowing if it could be saved from the fiery monster ripping through our valley. I had invested my life, my soul, my everything into my store, lovingly hand-making old fashioned confections for almost nine years. Now, it could all be lost in a matter of hours, my business and my home. I sobbed uncontrollably as I followed the line of cars escaping through the black smoke. I was terrified.

I returned days later to find I was one of the lucky ones. A sudden change of wind saved my home and shop that day. The same could not be said for over 40 homes and businesses in our small valley; our community was devastated. The darkness and depression enveloped our town and it was hard to feel any sort of relief when I was surrounded by so much grief. Streets normally bustling with tourists were empty, holiday homes vacant and shops remained dark.

The sense of loss was overwhelming and, desperate to regain some sort of normality, I opened my shop doors. Locals commented that I was crazy as there was no one around, yet it felt like I was making a stand, saying ‘we will get through, it is going to be okay’.

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Quickly I realised that what the fire didn’t take, the complete loss of our holiday trade could. I needed to find a way to keep my team working and keep the many other small producers whose goods I stocked in business. They needed cash flow, but there were no customers in the streets.

Inspired by the Empty Esky campaign, I invented our Bushfire Recovery Hampers, a unique, eclectic gift box, each containing hand-made products from at least five bushfire-affected small businesses. Some had lost their supplies, some their sales venues; some had lost everything, and they needed cash to start to recover.

The idea was to give South Coast small businesses a hand up … and the response was fantastic!

With orders through our website and corporate support from Mortgage Choice, My Travel Group, HIWD Strategies, Newie Ventures and Deanne, a Kangaroo Valley local who has sent hampers to almost everyone in her address book, we soon reached our goal of 500 Bushfire Recovery Hampers sold.

As a long, slow recovery continues, hindered by the new virus crisis, we continue to sell our Bushfire Recovery Hampers, expanding to proudly support over 20 South Coast small businesses. I now smile knowing that every hamper is making a little difference, supporting another small business owner - giving them a hand up.

S t e v i e - l e e b o u n a d e r

S O B B I N G , I L AY O N T H E K I TC H E N F L O O R L I S T E N I N G TO J A M E S TAY L O R ’ S FIRE AND RAIN – RESILIENT THOUGHTS THE LAST THING ON MY MIND.

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he night the fire came through our valley we were offsite, catering 30 minutes away in Gerringong. I have a screenshot taken at 7.59pm of our house on Kangaroo Valley’s southern ridge covered in a row of hotspots. We thought we lost our home. After finishing the catering, I wrote myself off on wine and passed out at a friend’s house. Compared to the heroic actions of others that night, this was an example of human behaviour at its most vulnerable.

At 4am, I woke and scoured social media, discovering the devastating destruction of our customers’ homes. The fire, however, never reached our ridgeline and our home was safe for now.

We didn’t know what to do but open our deli and offer free coffee and hugs to those who needed them. Men and women broke down in tears as they recounted their fight and the loss of their land. The following days, RFS volunteers limped in covered in charcoal, exhausted. The local pharmacist, Linda, said the cafés had become pop-up counsellors. Unequipped, full of the day’s painful stories, I lay face flat on the kitchen floor, sobbing, listening to a playlist I labelled ‘G’ for grief.

One woman, Andi Csontos, reacting quickly, set up a GoFundMe page. I knew I could either personally donate a modest amount or use my skills and Nick’s cooking to raise 10 times that amount. A collaboration of community members thus gave birth to The Phoenix Fundraiser Dinner and Auction. I focused on the tasks that needed to be done and entrusted them to those with the skills to make it happen. We were a team; we trusted each other.

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STEVIE-LEE BOUNADER AND HER HUSBAND, CHEF NICK GARDNER, OWN HAMPDEN DELI, DINING & SCHOOL IN KANGAROO VALLEY

PHOTO :

WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

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The hot evening passed in a haze of great people, food and music. At the end of the night, the local musicians had packed up and the RFS, their families, our volunteers, auction bidders, community members and the organisers had gone home. I was the last one left, too exhausted to stand. I sat under the stars on the stage where Peter Garrett and his daughter had performed just hours before. Astonished, I exhaled. We did it.

Surpassing all of my expectations, we raised $75,000: 375 times more than we could have donated alone. What an incredible community we live in. Through fire, rain, and now a deadly virus, we are keeping sane, doing the best we can, together.

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B r e n d a

s a m b r o o k

K A N G A R O O VA L L E Y O L I V E S

he lure of living on a farm only two hours from Sydney is undeniably an idyll. Green open pasture, cleaner air and bluer skies, community spirit and long, lazy days enjoying downtime with family and friends.

The reality of living on a farm, even two hours out of Sydney, may be somewhat different. Four years of drought, on tenterhooks for months on end from the threat of potential loss through fires creeping ever closer, a town heavily dependent on tourism asking people not to come and then a welcome respite in the form of heavy, heavy rain which when falling onto the parched earth leads to landslides and silt flowing down the mountain ranges into newly filled dams.

No matter – get on with it.

A new beginning – launching Come Buy With Me KV under the fabulous Empty Esky campaign; trips to Canberra to engage politicians across the political spectrum; and welcoming visitors back. Positivity in the air, businesses reopening and orders for our oils and olives start to flow.

And then … COVID-19. Shutdown. Self-isolation. Hibernation.

However, farm life takes no rest.

Having luckily avoided destruction by fire, our land and olive trees continue to thrive. Harvest season begins and, all in, spending long days hand-picking each olive individually from the tree – a

labour of love, but also a quest for the best quality produce we can make. Pressing new season Novello extra virgin olive oils; pickling our table olives; production of tapenades, dukkahs and beeswax wraps for our product brands, Kangaroo Valley Olives, Kangaroo Valley Kindred Spirits, and Essence of Kangaroo Valley … with no great prospect of sales.

June long weekend arrives and, with it, new hope. Our country town is once again open, our restaurants and cafes full of eager locals wishing to reconnect, and visitors making the trek from Sydney and Canberra to enjoy the idyll once again. Our retailers and small businesses kick into gear and, for a few weeks, the new ‘normal’ works.

And then COVID-19 rears its head again and with it we’re back on tenterhooks. Will our town survive another closure, will our own business survive another shutdown, is this the new cycle of ‘normal’ we will have to learn to live with, will our idyll of living on a farm endure and recover?

Yes. Life not always goes to plan. The cards you are dealt are perhaps not the ones you would like to hold. No matter. Play them out and see where life takes you. Grasp each opportunity, engage with your community, cherish your family and friends. Get up each morning, welcome the day and put one foot in front of the other. Thrive, not just survive.

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class act T H R I V I N G S H E A R

WORDS BY

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B Y

W I L L

M A X I N E B LY T O N

A S ON E OF TH E OL DE S T KNOWN FI B RE S USED I N TE X TI L E S , WOOL HA S S TOOD T H E T E S T O F T I M E A N D S O TO O H AV E T H E P E O P L E W H O P R O D U C E I T T H R O U G H A DV E R S I T I E S S U C H A S T H E R E C E N T D R O U G H T, B U S H F I R E S A N D G LO B A L PA N D E M I C . T H E S E P E O P L E H AV E E V O LV E D T O B E A S R E S I L I E N T A S T H E M I R A C L E F I B R E T H E Y P R O D U C E , A N D T H AT I S W H AT M A K E S T H E M H E R O E S

PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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PROPERTY OWNER MEI LIM LEFT: SHEARER JEANINE KIMM

To fully understand t he resilience of an Australian woolgrower requires a basic understanding of t he industry in which t hey operate and its immense history.

Over the past 200 years wool has been integral to the Australian economy, however for those who are reliant on the industry the journey has been far from smooth, with the market enduring a series of boom and bust cycles, while mother nature has also provided her own set of hurdles.

To fully understand the resilience of an Australian woolgrower requires a basic understanding of the industry in which they operate and its immense history. With such an insight, it becomes glaringly obvious that these people are true heroes.

DROUGHT

The most recent drought (which is still continuing in some areas) has been the worst drought for many farmers since the Federation Drought of 1895-1903, when sheep numbers halved and many graziers were forced off their land.

Although the current drought has been extremely savage, there were some saving graces. A run of good seasons, high commodity prices as well as low interest rates had many farmers in a much better financial position prior to the drought than what they might otherwise have been in. In comparison to other major droughts, banks were also more willing to assist rather than foreclose, and with the national sheep flock already at 100-year lows the market was better able to absorb the sheep that needed to be off-loaded. In the midst of the drought the wool market also reached its highest level in 30 years (since the height of the Reserve Price Scheme), interest rates continued to remain low and stockfeed, while expensive, was at least available.

Although the circumstances were better than they might have been, the drought still took its toll. The physical, mental and financial strain caused by longterm feeding programs was crippling for many, forcing them to reduce their numbers. The decision to sell breeders is never easy, especially when there are decades, if not generations worth of genetics at stake. Farmers know only too well that when the season does turn around, the opportunity to buy back in may not exist, or the cost to do so may well be prohibitive.

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With less sheep to shear and with each fleece weighing less, the overall volume of the wool clip is reduced. Processing and, through increased dust penetration, yields also suffer greatly.

However, despite this decline, shearing remains the most iconic job in rural Australia, and although it is considered to be the hardest job on earth, shearers tend to have a great deal of job satisfaction. For many it is the challenge and sense of achievement, it is the mates they make and characters they meet, it is the unique atmosphere of a shearing shed and the comradery of the team, as well as the financial reward, all of which, they say makes their job worthwhile.

BUSHFIRES

In 2019/20 the tinder-dry landscape brought about by the severe drought resulted in what many consider to be Australia’s most catastrophic and costly bushfire season. While the fires were not unprecedented in terms of total area burnt, stock loss and human fatalities, it was the nature of the fire, the extent of damage and the economic loss it caused that made this particular fire season so unique.

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OLLY IS ALWAYS ON GUARD

WOOL CLASSER MAXINE BLYTON

Protecting properties that come under threat is physically and mentally exhausting, especially in a fire season such as the one we have just witnessed, where the immediate threat continued for weeks, as erratic conditions kept the fire front moving, constantly changing direction and at times reburning areas already burnt. Only once the danger has passed is there a sense of immense relief. However it is shortly followed by a roller-coaster ride of emotion as the clean-up and rebuilding process begins. While the loss of infrastructure, machinery, stock and other assets can be financially crippling, it is the tragic loss of life (both human and animal) that is truly confronting and heartbreaking. The full extent of livestock losses from the 2019/20 bushfire season is not yet known, although losses are expected to number around 125,000 head. It is a figure that could have been much worse, had the paddocks not been so bare. For the stock that survived the inferno, some need to be euthanised while others had to be sold as there was nothing left for them to eat and they were unable to be contained due to the damage done to fences.

COV I D -19

As if a major drought followed by catastrophic bushfires were not devastating enough, on March 11 2020 woolgrowers were delt the trifecta of disasters, when COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic.

The demand for wool plummeted immediately as the world went into lockdown. Within six months the market had fallen 45 per cent to 10-year lows.

Back on the farm, the effects of the coronavirus measures were not as debilitating as they were for many other businesses.

State border closures and related quarantine measures also proved to be problematic for those located near state borders as well as those relying on interstate workers. The loss of seasonal skilled workers from abroad was also a concern for the Australian shearing industry who rely on almost 500 New Zealand shearers each year. Despite the federal government granting these workers shortterm visas, not many applied. The cost of travel as well as unreliable flights and quarantine measures meant the journey across the ditch was simply not worthwhile for many. Understandably those workers, are also reluctant to leave their families during such uncertain times and are concerned about their ability to return home. Without these workers shearing delays of up to two months are expected for some woolgrowers, although the full impact will not be known until summer.

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THE REL A XING B EACHSIDE VILL AGE OF KILLCARE ON THE CENTR AL COA ST OF NSW IS AN ALMOST M A G I C A L S T O R Y B O O K- L I K E H A M L E T T H AT I S P E R F E C T F O R U N W I N D I N G A N D R E L A X I N G . B E A U T I F U L B E A C H E S , S H I M M E R I N G S U N S E T S , S U B L I M E S U N R I S E S A N D T H E N AT U R A L S U R R O U N D S O F B O U D D I N AT I O N A L PA R K A R E J U S T T H E B E G I N N I N G O F A N E N R I C H I N G E X P E R I E N C E .

PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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bells

S I M P L Y

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M A G I C A L

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K I L L W H AT, K I L L W H E R E , K I L L W H O - K I L LC A R E . I F YO U H AV E N ’ T H E A R D O F IT O R K N OW W H ER E IT I S , YO U W I L L F I N D I T O N LY O N E H O U R A N D 25 MINUTES FROM THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE, NORTH ON THE M 1 , L E F T AT W OY W OY A N D YO U WO N ' T B EL I E V E W H ER E YO U WI L L E N D U P.

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know this will sound a little like a story book, but when you arrive it will be time to explore this magical almost storybook-like hamlet as you venture down to Pretty Beach, grab a coffee from The Fat Goose and sit under the Yum Yum tree, simply drifting off into the most sublime sunrise you will ever experience.

The Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel Restaurant and Spa is truly the benchmark in Australia as partners in crime and life, Karina and Brian Barry, deliver a world-class luxury experience.

Supported by arguably Australia’s leading chef extraordinaire Sean Connolly, The Wild Flower Bar & Dining restaurant will knock your taste buds for a six. This year, your writer has decided to minimise the copy and to simply invite you to experience as I did one of my most memorable getaways.

From the immaculate fit-out of the Bells bungalows to the surgically manicured grounds and veggie gardens, amazing spa and to those ridiculously inviting copper baths and wood-burning fireplace, you will be a true believer in the stay and holiday at home movement that has been hand crafted by Bells resort Killcare.

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W I T H S E V E N P R I S T I N E B E A C H E S A N D M A N Y S P E C TA C U L A R WA L K I N G T R A I L S , T H E T E R R I TO R Y A R O U N D B E L L S AT K I L L C A R E I S A N AT U R E L O V E R ' S PA R A D I S E .

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With seven pristine beaches and many spectacular walking trails, the territory around Bells at Killcare is a nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy typical Australian surfing at Killcare Beach, or swim at the southern end of the beach where the iconic red and yellow flags are. Further north is the glorious Putty Beach, and coastal headlands of Bullimah Beach and Maitland Bay. The coastal bush trails of the Bouddi National Park criss-cross through the park and arrive at many of the secluded beaches and bays. Walkers enjoy spectacular views of Broken Bay, down to Sydney, across to Pittwater and the Pacific Ocean.

Bushwalking maps are provided to in-house guests on arrival and backpack picnic lunch hampers can be arranged by the resort chefs for a great fabulous lunch in the wilderness.

There’s sailing on Broken Bay or perhaps whale watching when the season is right. Dive the HMAS Adelaide off Avoca Beach, play croquet or boules on the lawn or book in for a cultural tour, surfing lesson or mountain bikes.

Created in a style reminiscent of the seaside cottages of The Hamptons, accommodation at Bells is a seamless blend of relaxed luxury, elegance and sophistication. The cottages, suites and villas evoke the ambiance of summers past, with a palette of washed back blues, bleached linens, driftwood walls and wide striped awnings. Attention to detail is superb, right down to the wicker hampers, seagrass matting and rattan lounges. The cottages, suites and villas each boast designer Ralph Lauren furnishings, luxury bathrooms and state-of-theart technology. Take your coffee on your veranda with the local kookaburras, whilst reading the daily newspaper. All of the verandas have been furnished to be enjoyed as another delightful room, overlooking the lush native landscape.

All cottages are set amongst the lush, manicured gardens and are designed for two adults only (over 13 years).

The Two Bedroom Cottages are perfectly designed for families looking for a nature getaway or summer beachside holiday. These cottages are open to children of all ages, and sleep four people.

With three Two Bedroom Family Cottages onsite, able to sleep 12 people in total, it makes for a fabulous family celebration.

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The Wild Flower Bar & Dining is inspired by the food of the sun, from the Mediterranean to Morocco. It’s food for the well-travelled, creating theatre and fun within the restaurant environment, demystifying the ‘special occasion’ and reinventing elegant chic casual dining. Culinary director Sean Connolly has grounded the new menus in the core values of authenticity, simplicity and freshness, featuring seasonal dishes inspired by the produce grown and harvested in the famous Bells at Killcare vegetable garden. In addition to this estate-grown produce, menus showcase as many local NSW producers, suppliers, winemakers and growers as possible. Locally harvested seafood includes freshly shucked oysters and crayfish caught off nearby Macmasters Beach.

The Bells kitchen garden, some 500 square metres in size, includes an orchid, olive trees, honey beehives and free-range hens. The garden supplies the restaurant with more than 15 per cent of the produce on its menu ensuring sustainable practices across the entire operation.

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The restaurant’s excellent wine list has been named Best Regional Wine List several times over for its impressive cellar and collection of both local and international, particularly Italian, wines.

Your stay at Bells will deliver both that mystical and romantic getaway you have been longing for, literally down the road and round the corner - without travelling for days. It’s in our back yard.

BELLS AT KILLCARE 107 The Scenic Rd, Killcare Heights, New South Wales bellsatkillcare.com.au

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m i c h e l l e b i d u l p h C A P TA I N - K I L L C A R E F I R E S TAT I O N

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had only been in the brigade for about a year and had little real experience. My training had been fast-tracked because the brigade did not have many members at the time and they were getting the new members trained up as much as possible in minimal time.

Normally it would take several years to become a breathing apparatus operator in a brigade. This incident is the first incident, and probably only incident, I felt a bit scared but ultimately really proud of myself. Not long after this incident, I became a deputy captain and have been an officer ever since.

It was a normal weeknight until my pager went off, signalling a fire call. I raced to get my gear on and headed to the station. As I approached, I could see a plume of black smoke billowing into the air.

“This certainly isn’t a false alarm and gee the smoke is coming from near the fire station. I hope it isn’t the fire station on fire - that would be embarrassing,” I thought. It wasn’t the fire station but rather a nearby house.

When I arrived at the fire station, one of the members wound up the roller door to get the fire truck out.

Unfortunately, he didn’t roll it up far enough and when the truck was driven out, the antennas on the truck roof got ripped off. Oops!

PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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Once out, the fire truck was driven across to the burning house.

I was assigned to a hose at the front of the house in a defensive attack. The house was well alight. I felt so sorry for the homeowners watching on. More and more firefighters arrived from different brigades to help. The RFS is such a great family. We really do help each other out when times are tough.

It seemed that our defensive attack strategy wasn’t being very effective. Then I heard someone call from behind me: “Is there a Michelle up here? Michelle, is there a Michelle up here?” I turned around and looked at him: “Yeah, I am Michelle”. “Good,” he replied. “You are going in. Go and don up.”

I just swallowed hard and my heart starting racing. I couldn’t believe it. I only recently became qualified as a breathing apparatus operator. I couldn’t show how nervous I was. I had never been in a burning house before. I just had to do it; this is what I was trained to do. I had to rely on my training. I was still relatively new to the RFS and hadn’t yet developed gut feelings and intuition that comes with experience. Hopefully my training would pay off.

I went back to the truck and put on the breathing apparatus so that we could commence an offensive attack on the burning house. I partnered up with another operator, did our checks, gave our tags to the BACO board and headed to the burning house.

We were to enter via the side door on the left of the building.

My BA partner led the way, and I was on his back (not literally!).

Whilst dragging the hose to the entry point in the dark, I didn’t see a step and fell to the ground, hurting my elbow. I just got up and kept going. I wanted to prove myself. But I remember that elbow hurt for months afterwards.

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We entered the burning house and commenced our offensive attack. We knew that all occupants had left the building, so we simply had to put the fire out. No primary or secondary searches this time, thank goodness!

I had complete faith in my BA partner. He was far more experienced than me and I trusted that he wouldn’t put me in any excessive danger. Mind you, I am in a burning house. I still couldn’t believe it. We carefully manoeuvred around the inside of the house, looking for hazards, while putting out the fire and putting all our training into action.

Being inside a burning house is a strange and sad feeling looking at the homeowners’ possessions burning and being scorched.

It could happen to any of us. We had to try and minimise the amount of house being destroyed so that we could save as many belongings as possible.

Our offensive attack was successful and we saved some of the house. The homeowners were very grateful and learnt a valuable lesson not to put hot ashes in their garbage bin.

I was very proud of myself. Even though I was trained, I went far, far out of my comfort zone. I did something which would have been totally incomprehensible to my teenage self. But I extended myself and put trust in the RFS crew around me. They had faith in me to get the job done. Obviously, I had my eyes wide open to possible hazards (except that step I fell down) and I still can’t believe that I went inside that burning house. I have been in burning houses since, but that first one was very memorable, one that I will never forget.

THRIFTY 1300 367 227 thrifty.com.au

KILLCARE WAGSTAFFE BUSHFIRE FIGHTER NICOLA BILLENS AND MICHELLE BIDULPH

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Nicola B i l l e n s

K I L L C A R E WA G S TA F F E B U S H F I R E F I G H T E R

Becoming an RF S bushfire figh ter is t he last t hing I ever t hough t I would do.

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have been a city girl most of my life but have a deep love and appreciation for nature and so I moved to Killcare Heights on the Bouddi Peninsula a few years ago. It’s absolutely stunning – gorgeous bush surrounded by water – and then still relatively close to the city. You can’t ask for much more.

For Christmas 2018 my mother gave me a book about the Black Saturday fires because it was written by an old school friend. It was a fascinating read and I guess it piqued my interest. So a few months later when I saw a poster advertising an information night for the local RFS I went along. Still being quite new in town I thought it would be a great way to meet some of the community and give back. I wanted to protect our wildlife from harm. I never anticipated the season that we were to have.

Training took about six months. It was rewarding to learn something completely different – normally I’m desk bound but now I was learning mechanical things about pumps and how to draft water from dams. I qualified in December 2019 in the middle of the craziness. It was scary to watch the fires on TV knowing I would be amongst it soon.

During the training you’re not allowed to use real fire so, in some ways, I’d kind of glamourised it all in my head. When I went to my first fire on New Year’s Day 2020 I couldn’t wait to see the real thing. Then things got real very quickly and it was a big shock.

Within about 10 minutes of being amongst the flames and the smoke, all I could think of was that I wanted to go home. The smoke is just overwhelming – it’s in your eyes, you can’t breathe (even with masks), you can’t see people who are very close. The smoke was the thing that most affected me. The flames scared me at times – we were doing a controlled burn to protect railway lines

so we were in control, but sometimes a tree would unexpectedly catch alight and I’d get really frightened as the flames were so high. Luckily all the experienced firies knew how to put me at ease. Once or twice I turned around to see a bush burning behind me and have no idea how the fire had secretly jumped. I would hate to have been amongst the out-of-control fires that so many people struggled through – that would have been so terrifying.

Thankfully for us locals here, the Bouddi Peninsula remained unharmed in the 2019/2020 season and our beautiful region is still intact. I’m now guiding nature-tours through the area.

My goal is to use tourism to show people how incredible nature is so that they will be more inclined to protect it. On some of my tours through the bush I point out where past burns have occurred – some maliciously caused, some as hazard reductions.

I’ve seen cars that people have intentionally set alight in the middle of the National Park where the whole place could have gone up in smoke. I was at Pretty Beach House when the 2018 fires were threatening to destroy it and I remember the helicopters dropping water overhead as they struggled to contain the fire. Just recently we were called to a nearby house fire. Walking through the aftermath is something I’ll never forget – it was like a scene out of a movie.

Joining the RFS has been such a rewarding activity. I love being part of my community and helping to protect it. As a female, it’s really quite empowering to learn new physical skills – I believe it toughens you up mentally. Our brigade captain is female and I think that says it all. It’s no longer just a man’s domain. She’s a terrific leader and maybe one day I might step up to that challenge as well, but I still have to get a few more fires under my belt before then.

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SACRED G R O U N D

K I L L C A R E I S N OT A D E S T I N AT I O N T H AT S P R I N G S TO M I N D O N T H E M U C H D I S C U S S E D ‘ B U C K E T L I S T S ’. H O W E V E R , YO U W I L L M O S T D E F I N I T E LY N E V E R F O R G E T I T O N C E YO U H AV E S P E N T A L I T T L E T I M E O N T H E S H O R E S O F P R E T T Y B E AC H .

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retty Beach House is the epitome of laidback luxury and truly a rare find. This private and small hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury, intimacy, privacy and highly personalised service.

Pretty Beach House offers premium guest facilities including open-plan kitchen, spectacular dining room, huge sandstone open fireplace, guest lounge, open bar, wine cellar, private day spa, outdoor infinity pool and a poolside pizza oven for casual alfresco dining.

Simplicity, elegance, personalised service and superb food is evident in every aspect of the culinary delights of Pretty Beach House. The main house is designed for relaxation and conviviality where all the senses and sensibilities are inspired from the iconic Australian artworks, to the elegant yet relaxed table settings and stunning views. Guests are invited to help themselves from the fully stocked bar and relax before dinner while taking in the stunning surrounds.

Bouddi Spa is a haven where guests can escape to and de-stress with spa treatments that have been thoughtfully designed to rebalance the synergy between mind, body and soul. Pure Australian botanical products from the Li’Tya range are featured in the spa, offering a true spirit of place and connection to the earth. Li’Tya harnesses the earth’s elements to provide the finest spa treatments.

With seven pristine beaches and bays and many spectacular coastal walking trails, the Bouddi Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy typical Australian surfing at Killcare Beach, or swim at the southern end of the beach where the iconic red and yellow flags are.

The coastal bush trails of the Bouddi National Park criss-cross through the national park and arrive at all of the idyllic beaches and bays.

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PRETTY BEACH HOUSE HIDEAWAY-BATH AND TREETOPS BEDROOM

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I N T H E S E T I M E S O F U N C E R TA I N T Y A N D H AV I N G T I M E TO R E S E T O U R L I V E S B OT H P H Y S I C A L LY A N D E M OT I O N A L LY T H E R E I S N O B E T T E R P L A C E TO D O J U S T T H AT.

PRETTY BEACH HOUSE 83 High View Rd, Pretty Beach, New South Wales prettybeachhouse.com

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Jillian k i l b y

JILLIAN KILBY IS THE CEO AND FOU NDER OF THE EXCHANGE, A SOCIAL I M PA C T O R G A N I Z AT I O N A N D I N N O VAT I O N H U B . T H E E XC H A N G E I S W H E R E C O - W O R K I N G M E E T S C O M M U N I T Y. I T ’ S A S PA C E T H AT N U R T U R E S T H E POTENTIAL OF THOSE IN REG IONAL AUS TR ALIA WITH B IG DRE A MS FOR A SM A L L B U SI N E S S . I T ’ S A SPACE FO R T H OSE W H O K N OW W H ER E T H E Y WA N T TO B E , B U T N OT W H E R E TO S TA R T. I T ’ S A S PA C E TO B E E M P O W E R E D TO G R O W A N D C H A N G E . I T ’ S S PAC E F O R T H E B R AV E .

J

illian Kilby grew up on a farm north-east of Coonamble, and went on to complete a Bachelor of Engineering at Sydney University graduating with first class honours. She was awarded the Young Alumni of the Year when she started her infrastructure advisory business at just 25 years of age and from a farm west of Walgett in north-west NSW. In 2013, Jillian’s trajectory changed forever when she left her successful business and regional Australia for the opportunity to live, study and work in California.

Jillian is an Australian Sir John Monash Scholar who completed a Master of Business Administration and Master of Public Policy at Stanford University. She is unique today for having her bootson-the-ground in both California and regional Australia, the latter being where she believes she can have the greatest impact through her work as a civil engineer and through her social impact organisation, The Exchange.

In 2018, upon returning to Australia from her time in the USA, Jillian purchased the 133-year-old Post Office and Telephone Exchange in the main street of Dubbo. At the time, it was empty and in desperate need of a full renovation. Jillian repurposed the Clock Tower using local trades, and created a self-funded coworking space and innovation hub, the first of its kind in the region. The Exchange is more than a space, it is a social movement for small business owners across regional Australia.

The Exchange was launched in 2018 with a mission to empower the brave by creating space and community for them to connect, grow and succeed. As an innovation hub we are at the heart of advancing a fresh approach to community and economic development in regional NSW. The Exchange is a place-rooted innovation working hand-in-glove with people and organisations across the Orana region to build inclusive and diversified wealth, increase local capacity and create 98 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

opportunities to improve livelihoods, health and wellbeing. Our job is identifying and connecting existing community assets to market demand to build lasting livelihoods, always including marginalised people, places and firms in both the action and the benefits.

Effective rural development builds with local people. It invests in and weaves their know-how with local natural, built, social, political, cultural and financial assets to generate productive enterprises that will create and retain more wealth within the region, reinvest it to ensure enduring prosperity, and improve health and well-being for residents over generations. The Exchange is a critical entry point for national and regional funders and policy makers to engage with innovation at a grassroots level in regional NSW. Hence, in 2020, The Exchange launched its professional services arm to support government, university and private sector initiatives in the regions.

There is always a strong focus at The Exchange on community networking events, learning and upskilling programs, and creating an innovation hub where businesses have the resources to be screenful and feel empowered to grow. This comes from our recognition that business owners in regional Australia encounter a multitude of challenges – fluctuating revenue, natural disasters, small customer base, difficulty accessing metropolitan and global markets, seasonal and weather impacts, and now COVID. In March 2020, The Exchange witnessed firsthand the effects of COVID. The first noticeable change was that women-owned businesses retreated from coworking to home-based offices as children had to be home-schooled. 80 per cent of the followers of The Exchange are women-owned businesses. Owners became less confident about plans to grow and scale, and employ new staff. In response, The Exchange converted all programs to online delivery and was surprised to find business owners registering for our educational opportunities from Western Australia to Bronte Beach.

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

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The Exchange aims to redress some of the challenges faced in the regions by providing a workspace, where business owners can work productively and hold meetings; creating a community of like-minded individuals, wherein bush founders can connect with one another to form personal and professional partnerships; and providing support in the form of educational workshops and development opportunities. Through this, we empower businesses to grow, and as a result, raise the profile of regional Australia and encourage regional investment.

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R e m a i n i n g t h e

f a c e

R e s i l i e n t o f

i n

a d v e r s i t y

T H E PA S T Y E A R H A S B EEN CH A L L EN G I N G ; T E S T I N G O U R R E SI L I EN CE A S I N D I V I D UA L S A N D A S A CO U N T RY. W E FAC E D U P TO O N E O F T H E W O R S T D R O U G H T S I N M O D E R N H I S TO R Y, C ATA S T R O P H I C F I R E S , F L O O D S , A N D T H E N A G L O B A L PA N D E M I C T H AT H A S C H A N G E D O U R L I V E S S I G N I F I C A N T LY.

W

WORDS BY

:

B REN DO N COO K - FO U N D ER OO H ! M EDIA

hile each of these events has tested us, they collectively encouraged behaviours that could well have a positive long-term impact on our society – in particular a rejuvenated sense of community, greater social cohesion, and more looking out for each other.

In the case of drought, fires and floods, there was tremendous evidence of the community coming together, selflessly helping those who were in a less fortunate position.

The spirit shown by the community did not stop there – it was only amplified by the life-changing event of COVID-19. Despite being forced to isolate and social distance, we came together as a society with kindness and optimism in abundance.

These events also bought to the fore true and often unsung community heroes, like the firefighters, police officers, hospital and nursing staff, school teachers, farmers, property owners and shop keepers that are being celebrated in Classic Agenda Heroes.

At oOh!media, we have been proud to use our national Out of Home media network to recognise some of these heroes in a series of public campaigns we developed to help inform, educate and entertain as we all faced the ‘new normal’.

In addition to running thank you campaigns for heroes, we have also utilised our network of 35,000 classic and digital signs, reaching 77 per cent of all metro and regional Australians, to reinforce important health and community messages, encourage kindness, display artworks and help bring smiles to people’s faces.

The ability to use our network in such a way is part of the evolution of the Out of Home media sector that oOh! has been driving in recent years. Once viewed as advertising only, the sector has emerged as a new public space media that is powered by data and insights, content and innovation.

Through this evolution we are well positioned to continue growing and become a priority media for advertisers and the wider community.

Like the rest of the global media industry, we have been adversely affected by the pandemic, but the longer-term fundamentals for Out of Home remain positive.

In fact, I strongly believe that through oOh!’s continued leadership in transforming the sector, we will help drive the Out of Home industry’s share of overall media spend of around seven per cent in 2019 to more than 10 per cent in the next few years.

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Edwina S H A R R O C K

M I D W I F E A N D F O U N D E R & C E O O F B I R T H B E AT

L

iving and working as a midwife in regional NSW inspired me to create the digital prenatal education platform, Birth Beat.

It started in 2012 with the birth of my daughter Polly. Overall, I had a positive birth experience but, even as a midwife, I felt underprepared for childbirth. It was also at that time the local private hospital closed its maternity unit and, with it, private childbirth classes.

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

I was frustrated by the lack of options for local women and their partners. They now had no choice about where to give birth and also where they could access quality prenatal education. Having just given birth to Polly and, as a midwife, I knew just how important quality childbirth education was for improving birth outcomes and experiences.

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I t has undeniably been a time of growt h for us to and a chance to demonstrate t hat online childbirt h education is as, if not more, valuable t han t he out dated face-to-face model.

In 2012, I launched Birth Beat as a small, local business providing face-to-face prenatal classes in loungerooms. We grew via wordof-mouth and the classes started booking out months in advance.

Over the years, we had more and more people travelling great distances to attend classes. That’s when I started to think about alternative ways to deliver the course so that Birth Beat was accessible for more parents. I decided to create an online learning platform.

I was initially quoted $12,000 to build the Birth Beat education platform, but at the time didn’t have that kind of money. And so, after many late nights spent Googling and watching YouTube tutorials, I taught myself the basics of coding and building a learning management system.

In 2017 we launched the Birth Beat Ultimate Prenatal Program – a complete online childbirth education platform that has changed the way parents prepare for birth and beyond. We’ve now worked with thousands of parents across Australia, and globally, to help them have their best birth possible.

We also work with large corporates, like Salesforce, to provide access to the Birth Beat Ultimate Online Prenatal Program.

The most recent statistics show that approximately 41 per cent of women will leave the workforce permanently within three months of having a baby, with women feeling unsupported by their employer or overwhelmed with the demands of juggling parenthood and a career.

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Birth Beat offers a way for big business to open up a dialogue with parents at the start of their pregnancy journey. It is a practical way for them to show parents how much they value them – especially during what is a life-changing event. In many cases, it’s also the only opportunity many women have to undertake prenatal education with the demands of their corporate careers meaning they can’t make evening and weekend classes.

COVID was a turning point for Birth Beat and provided us with a real opportunity to support more women and families. With face-to-face classes completely off the table, parents around the world were forced to look at new ways of accessing childbirth education. It has undeniably been a time of growth for us and a chance to demonstrate that online childbirth education is as, if not more, valuable than the outdated face-to-face model.

Ironically, while it was the lack of services in my hometown of Tamworth that prompted me to create Birth Beat in the first place, I now see that being a regionally-based business is one of our greatest strengths. By leveraging the power of online education and our small but mighty team in Tamworth, we’re able to positively impact the lives of women and parents all over the world. We’ve come a long way since 2012, but I know that it’s only just the beginning for Birth Beat.

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

Donna b u r t o n

L I F E H A S A L W AY S B E E N O N E G R E AT A D V E N T U R E . F R O M G R O W I N G U P I N T H E O U T B A C K TO W O R K I N G A S A F LY I N G I N S T R U C TO R A N D I T T R A I N E R B E F O R E S E P T E M B E R 1 1 , 2 0 0 1 , TO L I V I N G I N C O O N A B A R A B R A N F U L L T I M E A N D W O R K I N G AT S I D I N G S P R I N G O B S E R VATO R Y, A N D M O R E R E C E N T LY F O R M Y S E L F S H A R I N G M Y L O V E O F T H E S K I E S W I T H A L L A N D S U N D R Y, I H AV E A L W AY S L I V E D M Y L I F E TO T H E F U L L .

T

hese last eight years have brought more challenges than I could have ever imagined possible. I have seen bushfires and droughts before – I was born in the drought to end all droughts. But nothing prepared me for January 13, 2013. We were well aware there was a fire in the area but had no idea of the intensity and how fast it would travel. Like many, we were oblivious to the danger that was literally around the corner on the other side of the mountain. We had a plan to stay and defend our property, but with only 20 minutes between the warning message and fire falling around us, we left for town. This would be the start of the longest three days of our lives as we had no idea what was happening to our property and our livestock.

The news was sketchy, and the media were showing the same images over and over. I sat with friends who had seen on TV that they had lost everything. On Wednesday, I drove out with a good friend to his property which had been destroyed, and then made my way to our place which, compared to others, was in much better shape. Our cattle and ponies were miraculously okay with only minor burns. But the devastation was everywhere. Dead native wildlife littered the ground and fences where they had tried to escape. We lost our observatory, barns, worksheds and my studio, as well as water and septic tanks. Part of our house was damaged.

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Then an opportunity came along to be able to work on t he old 40-inch telescope from Siding Spring – to restore it and to run nigh t ly shows from Milroy Observatory, and Donna t he Astronomer came into existence.

We are forever thankful for the work of the firefighters who performed incredible feats to save our property, and to Wayne who when driving past saw our place alight and made his way through the rubble in the early hours to put it out. We were luckier than many of our friends and neighbours, although survivor guilt was tough to handle as was being a part of a recovery system that made you a victim rather than empowered. We were insured – not sufficiently as it turned out due to asbestos removal costs, but we are thankful for so much.

We are fortunate to live in a caring and resilient community that came together to support each other. It is this sense of community and the love and support of so many near and far that got us through. The fantastic folks from Blaze Aid, many of whom became good friends, the cups of tea and the lovely ladies who came out and helped me with my garden and brought morning tea along to have a chat. The Salvation Army chaplains who just popped in to see we were okay and just hugged us when we need it. So many people and so much love.

Our land will never recover from the ferocity of the fire and the flooding which occurred only a week or two later and washed all our topsoil into the river, and more recently the drought of the past few years. However, life goes on, and as a person and part of a fantastic community, I have so much to be thankful for.

The other outcome of the 2013 Wambelong fire was that observing at Siding Spring Observatory went to a remote model. This meant that they no longer required someone to train the new observers how to use our telescopes and to undertake observations for them, so I was made redundant on Christmas Eve 2013.

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But this was not a negative in many ways, as I can now see with the power of retrospect, although it hurt at the time. I went back to running my small IT business and set about starting nightly stargazing shows and promoting astronomy in schools and wherever I could get a hearing. I was also fortunate over the last few years to score gigs on cruise ships as a guest lecturer and have been able to travel to some incredible places on this planet while sharing my love of the stars.

Then an opportunity came along to be able to work on the old 40inch telescope from Siding Spring – to restore it and to run nightly shows from Milroy Observatory, and Donna the Astronomer came into existence.

The drought has been heartbreaking and long – hand feeding and having to buy water regularly. Many have questioned why we have kept the ponies and cattle, but seriously they came through the fires, and they are a part of our story. Yes, it has been hard finding money to buy feed even when it is available. This has meant often having to travel hundreds of kilometres.

People have banded together and have provided all manner of support, but there is nothing more Aussie than having a cuppa with friends or even strangers who have come to help to remind you that people care.

This is a resilient country, and a country and a people that have weathered, in the words of the poet, ‘droughts and flooding rains’.

Each day we truly are always one day closer to rain and, yes, the cycle will restart and we will yet again forget the hard times.

Truly, we Aussies are a weird mob.

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Trish

&

l i t h g o w

Elaine

g a r d i n e r

W H E N T R I S H L I T H G O W A N D E L A I N E G A R D I N E R S TA R T E D T H E I R N E W V E N T U R E T I B U C G A R D E N S C A F É A N D A C C O M M O D AT I O N I N 2 0 1 3 , L I T T L E D I D T H E Y K N O W T H E CH A L L EN G E S T H E Y WO U L D FACE – A N D A M I DS T I T A L L , H OW T H EI R R E SI L I EN CE WOULD SHINE THROUGH.

S

tarting a new business, especially one we had no previous experience in was both exciting and intimidating. Plans were going well, including the naming of the business, finalising the furnishing of the café and cottage, planning menus and enjoying Christmas and New Year with family and friends. At this point we intended opening for business the week before Easter 2013.

Sunday, January 13, 2013, was a very hot and windy day. The news was full of fires in other areas of the state. There was mention of a small controlled fire in the nearby national park at 12.30pm.

With no mobile or internet service, we went to Siding Spring Observatory to see if there were any updates. There were none; staff were still working, the café open, business as usual. At 3.30pm, the sky over the mountains was changing. We rang a neighbour who is a member of the volunteer fire brigade. She said she was packing a bag; her husband had already been called in as a large fire had broken out in the park. By 4.30pm, I had taken two horses to another neigbour’s farm and Elaine was preparing for the fire near the house, connecting the rooftop sprinklers to the pump and hosing down the back of the house and gutters.

I returned for the third horse and dogs just as the SES arrived to tell us we must evacuate as there was a large out-of-control fire coming our way. It was the first official warning that there was a fire.

Twenty minutes after getting my horse from the yard, a sensible old boy although a bit startled by standing under the sprinklers and being told to get on the float without a halter, I had found a bit of bailing twine, picked up Elaine’s horse from next door and arrived in town.

Elaine travelled separately with the dogs and the bags we had packed. Standing at the showgrounds and looking back at the mountains and our home was a surreal experience. The sky was glowing red and huge smoke clouds were rising. We, like others, had no idea what was happening. The news and fire service information still talked about a small controlled fire in the national park. The sky told a different story.

People say you must have been frightened. We weren’t; we had no time for fear. I had this feeling of numbness, not knowing what to think. Elaine said while driving into town she felt angry at the whole situation, not at anyone in particular, although she did say she yelled at George, her late husband, for not being with her.

The next three days were a whirlwind of meetings and information sessions, not that there was much information. On the Tuesday I had an interview, previously planned, for a nursing job at the local hospital which I attended in work boots, jeans and work shirt and, as I later found out, smelling strongly of bushfire smoke.

On Wednesday, we were allowed to return to our properties, although the local council knew what properties had survived and what hadn’t; we were not told. Property owners were told the reason for this was that many people might not know their lot number and they would not like people to be given information that related to a neighbour’s property and not their own.

The 22km drive was mostly conducted in silence, looking at the devastation to the bushland, the still-smoldering houses and trees and the overwhelming number of dead wallabies and kangaroos.

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On turning into our property, we were confronted by t he completely destroyed gallery, t he damaged but still standing workshop, t he deligh t at t he still standing and largely undamaged main house and t he lit t le cot tage t hat was reduced to a pile of rubble.

On turning into our property, we were confronted by the completely destroyed gallery, the damaged but still standing workshop, the delight at the still standing and largely undamaged main house and the little cottage that was reduced to a pile of rubble.

A week later we had power restored to the house and had replaced enough burnt water pipes to restore running water. We considered ourselves fortunate as, unlike many of our neighbours, we did not lose our home and contents. We had great support from family, including Elaine’s extended family, to clean up. The clean-up took months, removing rubble from burnt buildings, unsafe trees and dead wildlife. Tibuc Gardens as we knew it was no longer.

It took us little time to realise we were going to rebuild the café and cottage - a completely new modern look for both, as the cost of replicating the mud brick and large gallery was prohibitive.

We used local contractors and tradesmen where we could and Elaine took on the role as project manager. It was a big and often frustrating role, especially negotiating the new and emerging fire regulations, but in the long run a rewarding role.

I worked full time at the local hospital. The cottage was built off site and transported to the property in mid-2013. Fortunately we both enjoy gardening and worked hard to create new gardens around the café. We also converted the workshop to a studio apartment for let.

In November 2014, some 18 months after the initial plan, we opened for business. Business was thriving for the first three to four years. At the suggestion of two local ladies we started stocking local arts and crafts in the café. They had a thriving wool craft industry and workshop before the fire on one of the ladies’ farms, although it, along with her home, was burnt in the fire. Not only did this provide another attraction to bring people to the café, it provided local artists and outlet for their work and a much needed boost to their mental wellbeing.

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BURNT BUILDINGS, UNSAFE TREES AND DEAD WILDLIFE. TIBUC GARDENS AS WE KNEW IT WAS NO LONGER

Then we started feeling the impact of the drought.

Our local customers were just not coming out as often and tourism was dropping off. Apart from fewer customers, the garden started showing signs of stress as our water source was not very reliable.

As the drought intensified, our customer base declined further, the wallabies started eating the garden, lawns and plants were dying and the property started to look very sad.

We first closed the studio apartment and turned it into a craft shop. Then we closed the cottage as our water situation was becoming dire. We maintained the established bushes and garden close to the café but had to let the lawns and extended garden go.

We kept the café open by reducing our opening hours and buying in water. Then it rained, what a relief, everything changed. The water tanks filled up, the dust storms disappeared, green shoots appeared, tourism picked up and locals were returning. We were taking bookings for functions and planning markets in the garden again. The cottage was again open for business.

Planning was starting in earnest for a great year in 2020, then once again our plans were dashed as COVID-19 hit the world. Being a small business out of town, takeaway was not a viable option. We therefore closed our doors temporarily.

LONG LUNCH AT TIBUC GARDENS

Again, we considered ourselves fortunate as we own the property and are not solely dependent on the business to survive. I increased my hours at the hospital at a time that nurses were in high demand. It is a job I love and have great friends and colleagues I work with, so not a hardship at all.

As restrictions lifted, we are once again open for business. The cottage is constantly booked out with Australians finding holidays in the regional areas a great option. The café is open three days a week and tourists and locals alike are returning.

We still cannot host large functions but we feel we are on the road to recovery. The gardens are being re-established and looking good, the rain continues and our beautiful mountains are as inviting as ever.

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I T WA S H A R D TO I M A G I N E T H AT S O M E 5 5 Y E A R S A F T E R L E AV I N G CO O N A B A R A B R A N T H AT I W O U L D R E T U R N TO H O S T A N E X Q U I S I T E L O N G -TA B L E L U N C H W I T H A G ROU P O F LOC AL H ERO E S - THAN K S TO TIBUC GARDENS

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M e n d o o r a n

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Volunteer

Rescue

A s s o c i a t i o n e live in a small country town with a population of approximately 400 people.

Our rescue squad has 11 members, seven of which are female, who all play a pivotal role as rescue operators.

As women of the VRA we are always on the frontline when we attend a call-out. The chances of being called out to an incident that could involve people we know within the community is very high. This is always in the back of our minds as we arrive at a scene.

We have searched for missing persons, one who was a part of our own family circle that ended with a devastating outcome.

We have attended accidents involving locals sustaining a range of injuries. Some of these accidents have involved fatalities.

We have seen local children lose their lives on country roads and this definitely takes its toll on the soul.

It certainly affects us all in different ways and acknowledging how we all deal with our feelings afterwards is extremely important. Being supportive and keeping up morale amongst our squad plays a vital role. We always ensure we have each other’s back.

We have also worked alongside multiple RFS services and assisted with first-aid and evacuations during the recent fire season. This was really difficult for all involved witnessing the utter devastation and despair of the affected communities.

Not all call-outs are devastating. Recently we attended an accident where an elderly man had rolled his car on a cold, wet day. Fortunately the man was okay but had to be transported to hospital for an assessment. So we had the pleasure of looking after his cute little fluffy dog, Suzie, until he was released from hospital.

While it can be very easy to focus on all of the traumatic incidents we have attended, it’s crucial to also focus on the positives and the impacts we make as a squad within our community. This really helps to keep that focus and positive mindset on the hard days.

It is a benefit having women on the front line as they demonstrate care and compassion no matter the incident. When we receive a call-out, which could be at any time of the day or night, we have no idea what we are going to be faced with.

We drop everything and go whether we are in bed asleep or are at work. Most of our members have small children so it can be very chaotic creating a plan of action and getting on the road as fast as possible, but that’s just how it is and we always manage to make it work.

Our squad is like a family. We assist each other in any way we can, from late night phone calls, coffee dates and even doorto-door welfare check-ups from our squad captain.

Working with squads from surrounding towns and the VRA community allows us access to support and training which helps us to keep moving forward as a small squad.

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

We are extremely lucky to live in a town that values the contributions we make and supports us in all our endeavors.

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S P E N D I N G M Y E A R LY Y E A R S O N A S H E E P P R O P E R T Y I N C O O N A B A R A B R A N B E F O R E M O V I N G TO T H E B I G S M O K E , I N E V E R R E A L LY U N D E R S TO O D T H E T H E M O N U M E N TA L C H A L L E N G E S T H AT FA C E D N OT O N LY T H E FA M I L I E S B U T A L S O T H E I M PAC T I T W O U L D H AV E O N T H E K I D S . H AV I N G S E E N A N A B C S P E C I A L R E P O R T F E AT U R I N G A N A M A Z I N G YO U N G L A DY A N D H O W S H E F E LT G R O W I N G U P W I T H R E L E N T L E S S A N D N E V E R E N D I N G C H A L L E N G E S -Z A R A K I N G I S A T R U E I N S P I R AT I O N .

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ZARA KING

F

rom the young age of 11, I really started to capture the world around me. Every time I turned on the television you would hardly see anything interesting about the bush unless it was the weather.

It was like we didn’t exist to anyone beyond the city walls. I wanted to be seen, I wanted this part of the country to be noticed, and I wanted the world to know that we live in a beautiful place.

Since I started pursuing a career in photography and videography, I really took every opportunity to get my work out there. I started out small, just using my phone to take action shots of any kind while working with my dad. I then worked hard enough for my parents to buy me a Canon camera for my 15th birthday in 2016.

I used any software available to edit my photos and videos, and to this day I still use my phone to edit my work, but I am working towards buying a PC so I can use more professional programs to edit with as you can only do so much on a phone. I want to be able to show people how beautiful yet ugly this part of the world can be.

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ZARA KING: ALL I DID WAS CAPTURE WHAT I SAW IN MY MIND

I WA S B ROUG HT U P TO L E ARN O FF TH E L AN D AN D HOW TO PROVI DE F O R M Y S E L F I F N E E D B E , S O U P U N T I L I S TA R T E D P H OTO G R A P H I N G T H I S D E VA S TAT I N G S I T U AT I O N A N D H A R D S H I P S O U T H E R E , I T H O U G H T E V E R YO N E HAD LEARNT THE SAME THINGS I DID

When drought really hit our farm this time around, I saw the opportunity to really show the hardships of the farmer, for the world to see. I never thought a small-town girl like me would make it in the local newspaper with my work, let alone on national television. All I did was capture what I saw in my mind, my perspective on life. I’m so desensitised to the harsh reality of drought. I’ve had to put dying cattle and sheep out of their misery and hear about my family’s constant frustrations surrounding stock deaths and financial problems. It was always a downer.

But my work was always, and still is, a way I find some down time and enjoyment for myself. Having Asperger, I guess I can thank that for helping me be passionate and show a different perspective to not only drought, but just life in general. I’ve stuck to it

for ages; I’ve made many videos covering anything from drought to comedy. I’ve photographed many different landscapes and events. And because of all that, I’ve fulfilled my want to make people laugh, love and cry over a photo. My main goal for documenting all of this was to help educate the public, and it really amazed me to see that not many people who live a suburban or city lifestyle know where their food comes from let alone what the difference between a bull and a steer was.

I was brought up to learn off the land and how to provide for myself if need be, so up until I started photographing this devastating situation and hardships out here, I thought everyone had learnt the same things I did. Kids like me were born and raised during the dry spells so we’re use to many things that others would find gruesome or upsetting.

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NINETEEN YEARS OF LIFE H AV E TA U G H T M E T H AT FA R M I N G I S T H E P RO FE S SI O N OF HOPE, IT’S A GAMBLE, BUT WHEN IT RAINS IT POURS. A BLESSING AND A CU R SE I F YO U WI L L .

Nineteen years of life have taught me that farming is the profession of hope. It’s a gamble, but when it rains it pours. A blessing and a curse if you will.

During the last 11 months, I’ve taken a break from photography and videography. I’ve just moved off the farm to start my life as an adult. My parents have always encouraged me to find work off property and live a little before deciding if the farm life really is for me.

ZARA KING: 19 YEARS OF LIFE HAVE TAUGHT ME THAT FARMING IS THE PROFESSION OF HOPE

I finished my HSC in 2019, and I’m now living for the moment, I guess.

I’m still only 19 so who knows what I could do in the next 12 months.

I’m working towards the things I need to be successful, and I will pick the camera back up full time again when I have everything I need to be the professional I want to be. I will always want to show the world a different perspective on hardships or just general things in life. It’s just what I do.

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B Y R O N B AY I S L O C AT E D O N T H E FA R N O R T H - E A S T E R N C O R N E R O F N S W A N D I S R ECO G N I S ED A S B EI N G O N E O F AU S T R A L I A’ S P R E M I ER H O L I D AY D E S T I N AT I O N S . S U R R O U N D E D B Y S O M E O F T H E B E S T B E A C H E S O F F E R I N G G R E AT S U R F, I T ’ S B O R D E R E D B Y S O M E O F T H E S TAT E ’ S L U S H E S T FA R M S A N D H I N T E R L A N D . I T ’ S A L S O H O M E TO T H E FA M O U S A N D R ECO G N I SA B L E C A P E BY RO N L I G H T H O U SE .

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DAN I EL RE SN I K

two-hour hike from town to the lighthouse is one of the best of Byron Bay’s numerous activities.

From here the expansive Pacific Ocean views are spectacular and for whale watching there is no better vantage point.

house. These rooms share the elegant lap pool with an outdoor deck area, a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, two lounge areas, a dining room and access to complimentary bar items along with a delicious daily breakfast of gluten-free granola, yoghurt and a homemade compote.

Recently we had the privilege of staying at 28 Degrees Byron Bay which is an adult-only five-star private eco-friendly guest house situated in the centre of town. This superb guest house is only a few minutes’ walk to Main Beach, restaurants, shops and everything else this unique and magical town has to offer.

The other rooms are: three Private Plunge Pool rooms and also a Lighthouse room with views to Cape Byron Lighthouse, each having a private complimentary mini bar along with the delicious daily breakfast.

Upon arrival we parked our car in the private parking area and were met by the amiable and bubbly owner Debbie Garske.

Our first impression of 28 Degrees Byron Bay at a glance was very pleasing as it’s surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and, upon entering the property, the feeling was one of immediate peace and serenity. ‘Barefoot luxury’ is their policy.

We were shown through to our beautifully appointed suite and, once settled in, we soon got an understanding as to why it’s a five-star property. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed and decorated by the interior designer owner Garske; from the superb wide recycled dark stained French oak timber floorboards to the warm white timber panelled walls to the luxurious Hale Mercantile Co. organic linen sheets and bedding covering the plush and uber comfortable king beds. Organic local beeswax candles, striking artworks and books have been strategically placed to make you feel right at home. Every detail has been considered to ensure each guest has the most indulgent and luxurious stay.

The accommodation is comprised of one Luxury Master suite, a Main Master room and a Main Classic room that form the main

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Breakfast and mini bars are replenished daily at no extra cost. There are also quality complimentary pushbikes available for guests, along with beach towels and umbrellas, luxurious hand soap, ginbased hand sanitisers and complimentary Wi-Fi. Everything has been extremely well thought out and it’s all these small touches that set a high standard to ensure a stress-free and exceptional stay.

Massages, yoga, babymoon and honeymoon packages can also be arranged to suit any occasion.

We spent four delightful nights at 28 Degrees Byron Bay and each evening we’d take a short stroll into town and dined at great restaurants that were recommended to us by the knowledgeable and obliging owner.

The only part of the stay that was hard to take at this beautiful guesthouse was when it was time to leave.

28 DEGREES BYRON 12 Marvell Street, Byron Bay, New South Wales 28byronbay.com.au

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WA D ED P h oto g ra p h y

UP Fired

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H E R E I S A T Y P I C A L A U S S I E T H AT H A S A L W AY S S E E N T H E F U N N Y S I D E O F L I F E -U NTIL TH E SUM M ER OF 2020, WH EN IT WA S TH E FIR ST TIM E IN H ER C AREER TO R A L LY H E R M AT E S A N D TA K E L I F E S E R I O U S LY. W E A L L R E M E M B E R T H E A M A Z I N G W O R K C R E AT E D B Y C E L E S T E B A R B E R R A I S I N G $ 5 2 M I L L I O N V I A T H E B U S H F I R E C O N C E R T- A T R U E H E R O !

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W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

I’m a very private person, even in my personal life. I have a joke with friends where we say our ‘books are closed’. I’m not great in big groups or fancy big events. However, over the past year with everything that’s going on, community has been key. Just knowing that there are people around and that we all have our eye out for each other gives me such comfort when I’m hidden away in my apartment with my boys. Having a strong community connection, especially for kids, is awesome. I love knowing that if I’m not there that someone else will be screaming at my kids to ‘look both ways before they cross the street!’

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U T H R O U G H ?

My mother-in-law. She has been at the front of these fires and she was terrified. Sending her updates of the fundraiser was a highlight of my day. When they were all evacuated and the family was split up, I’d send her updates letting her know she wasn’t alone and that people all over the world could see her and hear her. That’s what got me through. When the media became a beast of its own, scrambling for a headline, I’d just think about her and how much the fundraiser lifted her spirits and the spirits of her community.

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Just knowing t hat t here are people around and t hat we all have our eye out for each ot her gives me such comfort when I’m hidden away in my apart ment wit h my boys. Having a strong community connection, especially for kids is awesome.

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W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F T H R O U G H T H I S O R D E A L ?

In my line of work, the way through is to have a thick skin and ‘not care’ about what people think or say. This is completely different; all I do is care. I have learned that I care a lot more than I thought I did. I care about people that aren’t being looked after, I care about people that are doing the very best they can and are overlooked, I care about people that don’t have a voice, I care about people that have struggled to find a voice then it’s ignored. I care what people think.

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AD

GREENS AND GOLD SPARKLE ON A REMOTE NSW BEACH

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To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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N EX T ON TH E JOU RN E Y WA S QU EENSL AN D, OU R DROUGHT AND FLOOD -AFFEC TED REGIONS , AN D JOINING M E FOR TH E 10,000 K M DRIVE WA S M AT E S T E V E N F I T Z R OY.

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ur first stop was Toowoomba then an overnight at the Pick A Box Motel, Morven. Yes, the Pick-a-Box Motel.

It was made up of 15 40-foot containers and, as you arrive, you get to pick a box! And they were fantastic.

There was an interesting wake-up call at 4am with a freight train pulling some 50 carriages streaming past a mere 100 meters away, with dozens of 18-wheelers laden with cattle making their way south. Welcome to the Outback.

By 5am it was onto Longreach directly to the Qantas Founders Museum and what an amazing experience this was, not only as a world-class tourist destination but as a legacy to arguably Australia’s most iconic brand.

Expecting to head directly east to Rocky we had to divert to Townsville as super pilot Victoria Harrison had been grounded due to COVID restrictions and needed us to drive north for the catch-up. Victoria is Queensland’s only female Royal Flying Doctor pilot.

On the way, we dropped into Emerald to see photographer Tina Patterson, enjoying some of her remarkable landscape images. I now understand her challenges on the land.

We were lucky to also contact another amazing photographer in Jacqueline Curley and include some of her breathtaking images and stories of outback Queensland.

With a great night at the Quest Apartments, we dropped by Renny’s Cafe for a 5am ham and cheese toastie where we ran into the entire Emergency Services squad of Rockhampton.

We shot Selina and some of her crew right there on the street; amazing who you run into at 6am on the road.

Next it was down to Bundaberg and the Bundy ginger beer and Bundy rum distilleries, home of the famous Dark and Stormy. Then it was onto Brisbane overnighting at the Quest Breakfast Creek.

You may recall the devastating floods of 2011 as the Brisbane River burst its banks, inundating the city, but now, thanks to visionary Adam Flaskas, you can drop into arguably Queensland’s number one food and entertainment precinct, Howard Smith Wharves. You can spend the day at Felons Brewing Co and end up for lunch and/or dinner at Stanley, Greca, Mr Percival’s and Yoko restaurants or simply grab a gelato and sit on the lawn. It is sensational.

THRIFTY 1300 367 227 thrifty.com.au

Howard Smith Wharves has 10 bars and restaurants sitting under the Story Bridge and it will not let you leave.

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FIERY RED AND ORANGE SANDS ON MANGROVE ISLAND SOUTH OF MACKAY IN QLD

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To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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qualia

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W O R D LS I VBI Y L H N G: IPNH I Q UAERETNE S L A N D , W E H A V E B E E N S P O I L T F O R C H O I C E W I T H S O M E O F T H E

MOS T REM ARK AB L E B E ACH E S I N TH E WO RL D, AL L E TCH ED WITH B RI L L IANT WH ITE S A N D A N D T U R Q U O I S E WAT E R , S O C L E A R YO U C A N ’ T B E L I E V E I T ’ S R E A L . I T I S A U S T R A L I A’ S C O N T R I B U T I O N TO A W O R L D P E P P E R E D W I T H L U X U R Y D E S T I N AT I O N S .

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ualia is an outstanding example of bespoke design, situated on the secluded northernmost tip of Hamilton Island and surrounded by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, where time simply stands still.

Typically Queensland, with its sun-drenched beaches, it provides an idyllic location to simply soak up each day’s beauty and immerse yourself in a plethora of spectacular experiences qualia throws at you. The choices are endless.

There are 60 private individual pavilions, many of which have a plunge pool and natural touches such as outdoor showers. Guests may indulge and unwind at the spectacular spa retreat with only the most authentic Australian spa experiences.

Q UA L I A WI L L SP O I L YO U FOR CHOICE AND, AS E A C H D AY A R R I V E S A N D YO U A R E EN J OY I N G A B R E A K FA S T S AT U R AT E D W I T H S P E C TA C U L A R V I S TA S O F T H E W H I T S U N D AY S , YO U R O N LY C H A L L E N G E I S W H AT T H E D AY WI L L SERV E U P FO R YO U .

With two serene pools, a fitness centre, a library, private dining room, two bars and restaurants, you will be left with nothing but time to reflect on what may be in store next.

WINDWARD PAVILLION AND OPPOSITE PAGE, BEETROOT, GOATS-CURD, FIG AND WALNUT SALAD

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There is priority access to Australia’s only island championship golf course, the Hamilton Island Golf Club, with stunning 360 degree views of the Whitsunday Islands from every hole; one of the world’s top 10 beaches; spectacular snorkelling and diving opportunities; scenic flights over the Great Barrier Reef; world-class sailing through the Whitsundays; and one thing not to forget is booking the private beach for a gourmet picnic for two.

Qualia allows guests to find peace in their favourite pleasure from a workout with a personal trainer, relaxing in one of the two pools, or simply indulging in a signature cocktail by the bar.

From the moment you arrive at the tranquil Long Pavilion, fanned by the languid Whitsunday breezes, every second at qualia is one of deep sensory satisfaction. There’s an outstanding attention to detail and design throughout from the exceptional Spa qualia to the pavilions and guest lounges.

Qualia will spoil you for choice and, as each day arrives and you are enjoying a breakfast saturated with spectacular vistas of the Whitsundays, your only challenge is what the day will serve up for you.

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Sail the Whitsunday Islands: qualia guests are invited to secure the services of a yacht and cruise the Whitsundays, unwind on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach, or take a bird’s-eye view on a private, scenic helicopter flight from qualia’s own helipad.

For those with an adventurous spirit, the Great Barrier Reef is the perfect place to make some unexpected discoveries. Head off on a diving or snorkelling adventure, or marvel at the wondrous diversity of underwater life on a reef tour.

Journey to the Heart: in a world-first, qualia guests can now experience unprecedented access to the iconic Heart Reef lagoon in the Great Barrier Reef, with the launch of ‘Heart Island’.

The journey to Heart Island involves a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Beach. On arrival, guests board a futuristic glass-bottom boat, specially designed and customised for Heart Island, before making the short journey to the Heart Reef. Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel around the coral in the neighbouring lagoons before returning to Heart Island for refreshments and a swim off the pontoon.

Hamilton Island Golf Club guests are invited to tee off at the only golf course on its own island in Australia. The 18hole Peter Thomson-designed championship course located on neighbouring Dent Island, includes a practice aquatic driving range, putting and chipping greens, golf tuition, pro shop and a stunning clubhouse, offering fine food and wine with amazing views.

Qualia is a rare and precious place that immerses guests in an environment that must be visited to be fully appreciated.

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QUALIA 20 Whitsunday Blvd, Whitsundays, Queensland qualia.com.au

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VICTORIA h a r r i s o n

R OYA L F LY I N G D O C TO R S E R V I C E P I L O T

SH E GAI N ED H ER PI LOT ’ S L ICENCE B EFORE E VEN L E ARN I NG HOW TO DRIVE, S U C H I S H E R PA S S I O N F O R F LY I N G . A S A P I L O T F O R T H E R OYA L F LY I N G D O C TO R S E R V I C E , V I C TO R I A H A R R I S O N H A S M A R R I E D T H AT W I T H A D E S I R E TO H E L P P E O P L E - A N D S H E W O U L D N ’ T H AV E I T A N Y O T H E R W AY.

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Phil Harte

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he most heart-wrenching jobs we do involve little tiny premature babies, sometimes only as big as your hand, who are fighting for their lives right from the get-go.

It's very stressful for the family, especially if mum is also unwell.

When we can follow up it's always very satisfying to hear that mum and bub are doing well, and you just know that the kid is going to grow up to be a fighter!

Despite the critical nature of my job, I have an enviable office with the best view in the state – and I wouldn’t have it any other way. As a pilot with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section), I am able to combine two passions – flying and helping others.

Throughout the challenging circumstances presented by the pandemic, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) continued to provide vital emergency medical and primary healthcare services for regional, rural and remote Australians.

Across the country hundreds of patients suspected of having COVID-19 were transported by the RFDS. For myself and my colleagues, it’s all in a day’s work. But for the thousands of patients provided care by the Service each and every year, this contribution is priceless.

Inspired by my mother who learnt to fly as a hobby, I began flying in 1990. I gained my pilot’s licence even before obtaining my driver’s licence!

My enthusiasm for aviation led me to join the Royal Australian Air Force in 1992 and embark on a Bachelor of Science degree with the Australian Defence Force Academy.

Following graduation in 1995, I clocked up 14 years flying for the RAAF, including three rotations to East Timor piloting my beloved Caribou. The retirement of the aircraft fortuitously coincided with a job opportunity for the RFDS in Townsville, already home for me and my family.

A key factor in my decision to join the RFDS was my mother, a former nurse who had dreamt of one day working for the Flying Doctor.

Even though Mum passed away in 2008, I knew she would have been thrilled that I was combining my passion for aviation with her love of medical care. Mum definitely made me the woman and pilot I am today. I reckon she’d be proud.

Since joining the RFDS in 2010, I regularly flew both the Kingair B200 and B350. While a large majority of my flights are hospital transfers, there is nothing ordinary about the work or the situations in which I can find herself.

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For myself and my colleagues, it’s all in a day’s work. But for t he t housands of patients provided care by t he Service each and every year, t his contribution is priceless.

I’ve completed landings at night with the airstrip lit only by car headlights or diesel-soaked toilet rolls. There was also an occasion when a kangaroo hopped into the path of my aircraft, which bent two propeller blades.

The role with RFDS differs to that working for a commercial airline, as you are on your own to a certain degree. You’re the pilot, you’re the captain. When you have to deal with bad weather, emergencies with a patient, or issues with the plane, that’s when your experience really kicks in.

In the middle of the night with a couple of patients on board and storms in the vicinity, it can be a little harrowing. That’s when you fall back on your training, follow checklists, step through what you’ve been taught and keep calm.

I credit my confidence and inner calm as characteristics key to the profession, along with commitment and grit.

One of the greatest satisfactions of my current role is being surrounded by highly-skilled professionals.

Working for a national icon is an absolute privilege. I am extremely grateful for the support we receive and the community spirit around us.

There is not a single person we’ve helped who hasn’t shown gratitude for the Service. What more could you ask for in a job?

It’s this deep gratitude that sustains me through emergency retrievals, sombre transfers or challenging flying conditions.

The RFDS is a great organisation to work for – the staff are highly professional, the bosses are supportive, the aircraft are very well maintained and the RFDS has an excellent safety culture. I love my job – the flying, the variety of work we do, and the people we meet along the way.

And as for being a female in a male-dominated profession? There is no reason why women cannot be pilots.

You just need to go for it and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it.

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Phil Harte

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Q U E S T I S T H E L A R G E S T A N D FA S T E S T- G R O W I N G A PA R T M E N T H OT E L O P E R ATO R I N A U S T R A L A S I A W I T H M O R E T H A N 1 7 0 P R O P E R T I E S L O C AT E D ACROSS AUSTR ALIA , NEW ZEAL AND AND FIJI.

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stablished in Melbourne, Victoria in 1988, the growth of Quest has been achieved through its commitment to meeting the accommodation needs of the extended stay business traveller. Properties are managed by franchisees who follow a proven and successful franchise model.

Quest Apartment Hotels is part of the world’s leading serviced residence network, Singapore-based The Ascott Limited (Ascott).

Ascott is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore-listed company, CapitaLand Limited – one of Asia’s largest real estate companies.

WELCOME HOME

Quest provides a superior accommodation experience for both the business and leisure travellers, with a range of well-appointed, light-filled, self-contained room types available.

Apartments boast full laundry and kitchen facilities, making them ideal for families, corporates and groups looking for a true sense of home, while studios are perfect for shorter stays.

Regular housekeeping, valet laundry and dry-cleaning services, baby-sitting services, room service options and local restaurant chargeback are drawcards for guests, many of whom choose to stay with us for days, weeks or even months at a time.

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FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

In 2020, Quest will open a total of six new properties throughout Australia and New Zealand as part of ongoing local and global expansion plans; Quest Robina (QLD), Quest Palmerston North (NZ), Quest Perth Ascot (WA), Quest Ballarat Station (VIC), Quest Preston (VIC) and Quest Wangaratta (VIC).

Despite the global pandemic’s substantial implications on the domestic and international tourism sector, Quest’s regional properties have demonstrated resilience, typically outperforming the wider market.

The ongoing desirability of Quest’s regional properties among corporate and leisure guests underscores the opportunity for continued expansion in regional locations.

Backed by The Ascott Limited which has a strong footprint throughout Europe across a stable of revered brands, Quest also maintains steady focus on its global expansion. In 2019, Quest opened its first ever property in the United Kingdom, Quest Liverpool City Centre.

QUEST FOR A CAUSE

Quest staff and the franchise network are working hard all year round to be good corporate citizens.

We support a range of community initiatives to support the social fabric of Australian communities and welfare of those in need.

Quest for a Cause aims to empower our 140 properties nationally to work with local charities and community groups to support and strengthen their local neighbourhoods.

From fundraisers to fun runs, our dedicated franchisees at Quest Apartment Hotels continue to roll up their sleeves to create brighter communities to live, work and play.

HOUSING ALL AUSTRALIANS

At Quest Apartment Hotels, we believe that every Australian has the right to safe and secure accommodation. In 2019, Quest partnered with Housing All Australians - a private-sector body which aims to secure safe, affordable and stable housing for all people.

Quest is actively working with Housing All Australians and the Salvation Army to provide notfor-profit accommodation to vulnerable members of the community and help address Australia’s chronic shortage of low-income affordable housing.

“We find it amazing what happens when value aligned corporates like Quest unite to help vulnerable Australians. It clearly demonstrates that the private sector not only pursues profit, but also purpose. It would be great if all businesses demonstrated values around caring for all Australians that can't afford the basic of human needs, like shelter. Housing All Australians is proud and honoured to have Quest as one of our national partners."

ROBERT PRADOLIN, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HOUSING ALL AUSTRALIANS

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T H E S O N Y F O U N D AT I O N

Around one third of young people affected by cancer live in regional or rural areas.

Quest is proudly supporting The Sony Foundation’s ‘You Can’ program by accommodating families through the initiative to ensure they have a comfortable place to call home that is close to required medical care.

“When Sony approached us in early 2020, we were taken aback to learn of the shortage of accommodation options for teenagers and young adults with cancer.

As Australia’s largest serviced apartment operator, we knew we could make an impact and were compelled to act.

“It's been a privilege to work with Sony Foundation over the past six months and develop a program to accommodate young people battling cancer and their families at Quest Apartment Hotels around the country.

"Together through the You Can Stay initiative we can ensure that no young person fighting cancer goes without a place to call home, for a day, week, month, or even year at a time. Today we can proudly say Quest is only ever a phone call away.”

DAVID MANSFIELD, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, QUEST APARTMENT HOTELS.

OUR FRANCHISE MODEL

As the largest network of franchised apartment hotels, the Quest business format franchise system has provided business owners with a proven format for 30 years.

Quest has recruited franchisees who have come from a variety of backgrounds in an open and supportive fashion. A rigorous selection process gives both parties the opportunity to understand whether the partnership is suitable.

Quest continues to open on average 8-10 new properties each year. This growth creates opportunities for our franchisees to expand their portfolio, with many franchisees owning multiple businesses.

HEAD TO WWW.QUESTAPARTMENTS.COM.AU TO LEARN MORE ABOUT QUEST, BOOK TO STAY OR DISCOVER FRANCHISING OPPORTUNITIES.

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R E S C U I N G A N I M A L S I N E M E R G E N C I E S I S M Y F O R T E A N D I H AV E U N D E R TA K E N S P E C I A L I S T TR AI N I NG B OTH I N TH E US AN D AUS TR AL IA TO HON E MY SKI L L S . IT IS DANG EROUS WORK A S OU R SU BJ EC TS C AN OF TEN WEIG H U P TO HAL F A TON N E AN D ARE Q U ITE C A PA B L E O F K I L L I N G U S O U T O F F E A R , A D R E N A L I N A N D T H E N AT U R A L I N S T I N C T TO TA K E F L I G H T. A D D I N H A Z A R D O U S C O N D I T I O N S S U C H A S F L O O D I N G , A N D YO U H AV E A R E C I P E F O R T H I N G S TO G O P E A R - S H A P E D V E R Y Q U I C K LY.

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think that for all emergency services workers, the memories of our rescue attempts – both good and bad - stay with us and there are a couple that I don’t like to revisit often.

One of the harder ones was when I was trying to rescue a cow and her calf from raging floodwaters, but I did not have the time, equipment or team to effect the rescue.

Listening to the desperate vocalisations of the animals over the roar of the water, (as a mum) relating to the cow’s distress for her calf, watching the little one finally go under and the mum get swept away. These are memories that are burned into my brain.

The frustration, grief and hopelessness claws at your throat as you try to accept that you can’t rewind time and do it better this time around.

To balance it, we are lucky to have the successful rescues too. One of my favourites was saving a cat and her kittens from a flooded decrepit house.

The cat had recently given birth and, as cats like to do, had selected a cosy cavity in which to do so. Unfortunately, floodwaters had

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overcome the house and were continuing to rise. We were trying to evacuate the owner because there was a real danger that the house was going to collapse, but she would not go anywhere without her cat and kittens, and she wasn’t able to grab them out of their hidey-hole.

That’s how I ended up lying on my belly in dirty floodwater and losing several layers of skin as I tried to squeeze through a ridiculously small space to be the benevolent rescuer of my soul animal.

Unfortunately, mother cat didn’t feel the same connection, nor did she take too kindly to my less than gracious appearance in her life and, after a warning swat, promptly sunk her teeth into my hand. I grimly pressed on and was soon able to extricate a howling demon and her brood of delightful fluff balls to the relief of the owner.

I was cold, wet and bleeding, with the stink of muddy flood water in my nostrils and mascara running down my face. And I would do it a hundred times more in a heartbeat.

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L I F E O N G I P S Y P L A I N S C H A N G E D F O R E V E R O N F E B R U A RY 1 , 2 019.

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Overnigh t we went from drough t to a flood disaster zone.

As a fourth-generation family living on a remote cattle station in outback Queensland, we have experienced the highs and lows of outback life: that is what agriculture is about. Passionate about preserving natural grasslands and the promotion of Australia’s tremendous beef industry, I have been documenting life on Gipsy Plains through photography for 40 years. However, in February 2019 an environmental massacre of mammoth proportions left the entire North West Queensland in what can only be termed as broken hearted.

An extreme monsoonal weather event likened to an inland cyclone lashed the area with 700mm of torrential rain within a period of four days. Native wildlife along with domestic livestock were decimated. Overnight we went from drought to a flood disaster zone.

In times such as these there are the unsung heroes. My son Clayton worked tirelessly with the Gipsy team saving what livestock they could. Heartbreakingly, he needed to humanely euthanise large numbers of cattle. Helicopters distributed what fodder we had to surviving cattle, the pilots working above the call of duty as we all struggled to keep what cattle we could alive in a landscape swept bare of grass.

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JACQUELINE CURLEY IS A CO-OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF GIPSY PLAINS BRAHMANS CATTLE STUD IN CLONCURRY, NORTH WEST QUEENSLAND, WITH HER HUSBAND ROBERT AND SON CLAYTON. HER DAUGHTER NATALIE IS ALSO INVOLVED IN THE RURAL INDUSTRY AT AVINGTON STATION IN THE BLACKALL AREA.

Amid the heartbreak, I realised I needed to record the true scale of the destruction and I took to the air to see firsthand what had happened in our paddocks. At every turn I was confronted with death, destruction and devastation. Kangaroos dead in trees, birds drowned in silt in gullies, debris-strewn paddocks stripped of any vegetation. Our beloved bovine family lay perished in piles.

I took photographs revealing the damage that the sheer amount of water that engulfed the region had done; demolished fences, exposed pipelines, destroyed water infrastructure, enormous erosion resulting in huge gullies, roads turned into rivers and dam banks washed away. Gipsy Plains was not alone, this devastation was mirrored across the entire region. Estimates put the loss of cattle at a minimum of half a million head. Over three thousand of them were ours.

Cattle on Gipsy Plains are not just our income, they are our life work, our life passion. The toll of this loss was not only financial but incredibly emotional and was, and still is, felt throughout the extended agricultural community.

The Australian community was extremely supportive. Hundreds of volunteer helpers have sustained agricultural families, and financial aid and disaster relief from the state and federal governments have meant communities could recover and rebuild. The initial visit by the Prime Minister Scott Morrison and subsequent visit to check on the recovery status gave us hope for a positive future.

We are recovering slowly, the smiles are coming back and we step a little lighter. Our landscape is recovering, our native wildlife has returned, and the surviving cattle are content as Clayton rides in the lead of his mob.

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T H E C AT W A L K S O F PA R I S A R E A L O N G W AY F R O M THE SAND DUNES OF THE SIMPSON DESERT NEAR REMOTE AN D DUS T Y OUTBACK B IRDS VIL L E, IN

Q U E E N S L A N D ’ S FA R W E S T, B U T T H AT I S W H E R E T W O I N D I G E N O U S S I S T E R S A R E D E T E R M I N E D T O G O .

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npanuwa 'Joyce' Crombie, having just entered her 70s and sister Aulpunda 'Jean' Barr-Crombie in her mid 60s have reinvented themselves into the fashion world’s newest creatives.Aulpunda and Anpanuwa are Wangkanguru and Yarluyandi elders and artists who began painting around the same time as they became grandmothers – encouraged by their own mother.

“She pushed us and pushed us, in mum's later life she pushed us to do all this (to paint), to talk the language; she really wanted us to talk the language,” says Anpanuwa.

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ANDAPANUWA JOYCE CROMBIE

Initially a hobby, the Two Sisters Talking collaborations and artworks have made a mark. In the nearby ghost town of Betoota a supersized rainbow serpent wraps its way around a jump-up (mesa) and the National Museum, in Canberra, holds their work.

Like many, their hopes and dreams for 2020 were crushed by COVID-19 when a Brisbane exhibition of their works was cancelled. But the resourceful bush women, who can find a bounty of food in the desolate desert, weren’t going to let this disappointment set them back. Instead they figured it was the best time to put their artworks on clothing.

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“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” Aulpunda explains, then with a wry smile and a sparkle in her eye she adds, “we’re going to Paris.” “To see someone walking down the street in our work in Brisbane or Paris that would be unreal,” Aulpunda adds. The sisters had worked with regional arts organisation Red Ridge Interior many times before to produce language books, sculptures and other works, so they contacted the organisation and in a matter of months a box of prototype silk garments arrived in Birdsville. The women sit around the kitchen table unpacking the delivery while Aulpunda explains her design Children’s Playground.

IN THE NEARBY GHOST TOWN OF BETOOTA A SUPERSIZED RAINBOW SERPENT WRAPS ITS WAY AROUND A JUMP-UP (MESA)

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“I love yellow because it blends in with the country; orange is the sandhill country and yellow is the spinifex when it dies off. You go out and you see yellow flowers, you rarely see other colours, always yellow. Yellow plays a big part in my little life,” explains Aulpunda.

The women giggle almost as though they are back in the 'playground'.

“When we were kids out on country the frill neck lizards used to eat the yellow daisies and this (the dress they are inspecting) reminds me of them,” Anpanuwa recalls with a warm smile.

Red Ridge, the Label’s first line featuring the sisters' artworks, the Diamantina Collection, was launched in Brisbane and the online store is live.

Not bad for women who spent their childhoods on a large cattle station running in the sand dunes chasing goannas and helping their father secure their shack’s roof with tyres and rocks to stop their home blowing away when desert sandstorms were about.

“Mum and Dad they would be proud, so proud; they work really hard, really hard to put food on the table - we have come a long way” says Aulpunda.

There was a time in their earlier lives when they were forbidden to speak their language, had to collect rations and to leave town required permission from the police because they were Indigenous.

“If we were going to dwell on that then we may as well give up. You over look it and just keep on taking that step forward and that’s what we have been doing; you keep on going with our artwork that has pushed us,” Aulpunda states.

The dream of taking their garments overseas for the world to celebrate is about more than making it in the fashion world, in fact it’s not about that at all.

Keeping alive and sharing one of the world’s oldest cultures that survived many attempts to whitewash it is the driving motivation.

“We’ve seen it, we’ve lived it out on country, it is part of our life, it’s our story – our connection to the people, the land itself.

“When we do our painting that’s what we put on canvas as long as we can tell our story it shows that we are still here, we are not forgotten,” Aulpunda says.

Like the baking desert sun in summer or the punishing wind that shapes the dunes in their backyard the sisters’ determination to send their work out into the world is unrelenting, they are not only driven to keep their culture alive but to share it with everyone.

“Seeing our kids - and the non-aboriginal people it’s good to see everybody wearing it because if we can get this out there for everyone to buy and wear, we are walking together. “That is what I really want to see that we are walking together that they are wearing our story in the city, overseas wherever” says Anpanuwa.

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JOYCE CROMBIE AND CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND PRINT, GRANDDAUGHTER CODIE BARR

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B AT T E R E D A K U B R A , S K I N L I K E L E AT H E R , BOWED L EG S AN D R M BOOTS , TH E Q U I N T E S SEN T I A L O U T BACK … M A N . YO U ’ V E SEEN H I M I N PHOTOS , B UT I ’ VE M E T H I M MANY TIMES OVER .

I

’ve been a journalist in outback Queensland chronicling the quirky, reporting on the region.

For the past 13 years, I’ve produced hours of television, radio and copy on drought, floods, locust plagues and the inequities country people live with.

It sounds hopeless, livelihoods at the mercy of mother nature or people counting the cost and sometimes paying the ultimate price to choose to live deep inland. But I’ve found under the surface of every single story - hope, resilience, determination and more often than not an amazing woman.

It’s one of the bits of the job I love. After driving most of the day on outback roads with only myself and an emergency satellite phone for company, the white-blue sky softens to orange then pink as I turn the four-wheeldrive onto the track that leads to the station’s homestead.

I t sounds hopeless, livelihoods at t he mercy of mot her nature or people counting t he cost and sometimes paying t he ul timate price to choose to live deep inland.

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Out here the farms are bigger than some countries so I’m a necessary, but very welcome, guest for the night before interviews or filming the next day while the light is still magic. With this region of Queensland drought declared for the past seven years it is likely that will be the focus.

I sit at the manager’s table - we talk about the seasons, the price of cattle, the latest TikTok video their kids love, and we eat station steak from the cold room and drink cold beer. Out here properties are most often run by mum and dad outfits with a few jackaroos or increasingly jillaroos for help and, if they’re lucky, a govie (a young woman to help with the kids).

The boss lady clears up and leaves me to talk with her husband - she knows better than him why I’m here. In a pre-interview call it was her I spoke to; she explained about the seasons, the cattle, the wildlife then insisted her husband do the interview even though she was more than qualified. She said she’d sort him out - just come.

And she did sort him out, and then made up my quarters with fresh linen, finished the kids’ distance-ed lessons early so she could check the 'waters' (ensure the cattle had water which can take many hours), fixed a fence and then she made our dinner.

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Her husband and I have exhausted conversation - and he’s worked a long hard day so we say goodnight. She makes a plan for breakfast and says goodnight, completes some bookwork and checks the Royal Flying Doctor Service first-aid kit on steroids is up to date in case anyone gets bitten by a venomous snake, gored by a bull, or falls from a horse or motorbike during mustering.

I rarely whinge about my job - it’s a privilege to be let into people's lives for a short time, to tell their stories - but after a day where the mercury topped 45 running over the plains carrying a video camera and tripod trying to keep up with cattle, or a bitter cold sandblasting in the Simpson Desert getting the perfect shot or standing in the dusty sheep yards asking farmer after farmer again and again- how do you keep going? - I can get a little sorry for myself. That is until I remember the women of the stations, and snap out of my sulk.

Like their city sisters they juggle and balance, fulfil so many roles and carry a big load but who also, global pandemic or not, homeschool their children and live in isolation.

The internet has had an immense impact on outback women when they can get it. Mobile reception is still rare outside town limits but over the past decade as internet has improved it’s opened wide a gate of opportunity. In the same way that my outback

NICOLE BOND FILMING SIMPSON DESERT MUNGA-THIRRI PHOTOGRAPH: LORRAINE KATH

environment has tested my professional abilities in ways I could never have imagined - like turning a shearing shed into a stage for Australia’s best-known broadcaster, Richard Fidler, or setting up a live television studio in a wool pavilion.

Better connectivity has enabled some isolated women to pursue their passion while living in a landscape and community they love. I’ve watched farmers' wives become swimwear designers, lucrative artists, serious personal trainers, businesswomen and photographers. Even I, as I steer my career away from news reporting and toward strategic storytelling and documentary from my office in Longreach connecting journalists in Sydney and Paris with remote Papua New Guinean chiefs.

The ability to work remotely from remote Australia has seen the blossoming of many women … if they can get enough bandwidth.

And many can’t.

I’m constantly amazed by outback women and their achievements and inspired by their strength. I can’t help but want to tell their stories, to shine a light on their incredible capacity for just about anything and their ability to take off a dusty work shirt and transform themselves into sequin-adorned goddesses under an incredible chandelier of stars as soon as the opportunity arises.

Like t heir city sisters women juggle and balance, fulfil so many roles and carry a big load but who also, global pandemic or not, homeschool t heir children and live in isolation.

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THE HORSE W I T H O U T WA R N I N G F L O O D S D E VA S TAT E D P E O P L E ’ S L I V E L I H O O D S ,

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H ER FRO M R EG I S T ER ED N U R SE TO L A DY B OS S O F A M I L L I O N - D O L L A R C H A R I T Y I N L E S S T H A N T W O W E E K S .

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alf a million cattle, thousands of horses, and an unknown number of native animals drowned or died of exposure over three weeks in early 2019 in North West Queensland.

“People talk about the stench, the smell that they couldn’t get out of their nasal cavities for weeks, some months,” explains Cloncurry’s Susan Dowling.

North West Queensland is a large part of Australia’s top end, its cattle country, its mining, its crocs and spinifex. It’s a tough landscape inhabited by tough people.

Drought declared, in some parts up to seven years, the region had a record-breaking run of 40 days over 40 degrees Celsius. Utterly fed up, Susan and some friends decided a girls’ weekend for all the country women was needed so Sisters of the North was born to plan the event.

But then it started raining, jubilation, pouring rain, bliss and optimism, kept raining, over four days the rain didn’t stop. Hundreds and hundreds of millimetres fell and the temperature dropped, the emotional state of graziers completed the full range to end in despair and grief.

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I feel privileged to have done what I have done, despite t he challenges, privileged responsibility was a driving force to keep going

“Their life’s work, their blood sweat and tears hanging in trees, mountains of carcasses the gut-wrenching stench day in day out,” Susan explains.

In the beef cattle breeding game to bounce back from losing an entire herd will cost millions and take many years of no income.

That’s what the entire region twice the size of the UK was facing.

Her husband Peter, a stock agent (like a real estate agent but for cattle), was at a horse sale in NSW as it unfolded. By pure coincidence he was in a room with friends who wanted to do something. One suggested setting up a GoFundMe page, and Peter nominated Sisters of the North as the entity under which it could be registered.

Within 10 days the fund raised a quarter of a million dollars and corporates wanted to come on board.

Three weeks in at the kitchen table, the magnitude of the event and the charity hit them.

“We both burst into tears wondering what we’d gotten into,” Susan says.

But very quickly she gathered herself up. “We had to get back on the horse and get ahead of the momentum,” she explains.

The charity raised $1.3 million to be distributed through a voucher system for local businesses to stimulate the regional economy, so melded to the pastoral industry.

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people to get together and connect them to mental health and wellbeing services.

Susan is grateful her employer, a primary health network, adapted her role to run the charity with the support of a skilled board and a core group of helpers, but it hasn’t been easy.

“There have been plenty of low times, plenty of vulnerability. I didn’t mind doing the hard yards, doing the long days, working weekends, nights because it was for a significant humanitarian cause that was my driving factor.

“I was achieving something pretty good, not for my own benefit or financial gain. I was helping people who had been significantly impacted and that gave me strength.

"Lots of learning, lots of times waking up at 2am, my heart racing, probably at that moment thinking, what have you done?” she offers.

There is no doubt this cataclysmic natural disaster has called on the mother of two to draw on every ounce of resilience. She has been tested beyond measure, but would she do it again?

“I feel privileged to have done what I have done, despite the challenges; privileged responsibility was a driving force to keep going,” she said without hesitation.

She, like all country kids, was taught that when you fall off the horse you get back on.

It’s an art she has perfected.

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DROUGHT M Y

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SO MANY PEOPLE HAD WRITTEN OF THEIR DROUGHT EXPERIENCES IN AUSTRALIA WELL B EFO R E O U R D RO U G H T CO M M EN CED. I H A D SEEN T H E I M AG E S FRO M OT H ER PA RTS O F D R O U G H T- A F F E C T E D A U S T R A L I A , K N E W T H E P O E M S W R I T T E N A B O U T D R O U G H T A N D H E A R D M A N Y S TO R I E S F R O M O U R O W N D I S T R I C T ’ S H I S TO RY.

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So, with all of this floating in my head, I braced myself for the long haul, thinking that others had done it tougher than us in the past and hoping that we would surely get rain soon, just like everyone else before us had hoped.

IT WA S SHARED BY M EDIA ON FACEB O O K , A N D I WA S CR I T I CI SED FO R NOT PL AN N ING FOR TH IS DROUG HT E V E N T, F O R N OT S AV I N G T H E KANGAROO, FOR BEING ME, A GRAZIER. TH E KE YB OARD WARRIOR S ARE YE T TO L E A R N T H AT YO U H E L P YO U R S E L F B Y H EL PI NG OTH ER S , NOT BY PUT TI NG PEO PL E D OW N TO M A K E YO U R SEL F ‘ F E E L’ M O R E I M P O R TA N T.

I can relate my first drought to the first time that I became a mother.

You are thrown into something that you have heard all about but never experienced for yourself. You think you know what you are letting yourself in for. You think that you can cope. You tell yourself that everyone else has done it and mostly survived with their sanity intact and that you can too.

Eventually, you realise that everyone has been telling themselves the same thing all along to get themselves through each day and, finally, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s just a bloody long way off.

There is no denying that drought is one rough and tough road to travel.

Checking and feeding stock and checking watering points every single day is physically tiring. Watching everything deteriorate is mentally tiring. And when I say everything, I mean everything, from the bird life, to the stock, to the kangaroos and wildlife, to the trees and vegetation, to the insects, to the people, to the communities. Everything. I found watching the land that I loved shrivelling a bit more each day to be really tough going. I watched and worried for my husband, for my adult children, for our young employee.

I felt for all of the stock and wildlife. I felt for other people in my community.

I felt for the poor souls in north-west Queensland who had endured seven years of drought, handfeeding their core breeding herds only to have them all washed away in a terrible flooding event in February 2019.

Approximately 11.4 million hectares of land under water or affected and 500 000 head of cattle just gone, after seven long, tough years. And how I hurt.

Around that time, I realised that positivity was going to be my saviour.

Trying to stay positive through a drought is fearsomely hard. I couldn’t change the weather, but I could focus on how I responded to it.

I could send baked goods and words of encouragement to those in the north-west flood zone.

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I could rally other members in my community to do the same. I could make new contacts from all over Australia. I could share their stories and help lessen the city-country divide.

I could organise a social event for my community. And I could find beauty in the drought through the lens of my camera, keeping a photographic diary on Instagram and aiming to only share positive images.

The few times that I shared a negative image was really just because I had to do it for me, to help tell my story, to help me understand how I felt, to help me see things more objectively. I shared a photo of a dead kangaroo, bogged in a dam, and I was wondering how we would look and how our land was going to look when the drought was finally over, because we would not be the same people on the same land. We just couldn’t be.

It was shared by media on Facebook, and I was criticised for not planning for this drought event, for not saving the kangaroo, for being me, a grazier.

The keyboard warriors are yet to learn that you help yourself by helping others, not by putting people down to make yourself ‘feel’ more important. Mental health in the bush is an ongoing battle, particularly during a drought. Kind words and deeds can and do make a huge difference in the lives of those facing hardships.

The drought-affected, dying bottle trees have become quite symbolic of tough times here for me. They have evoked a keen realisation of how precious life is, how precarious life is, and ultimately how insignificant we really all are. Once dead, they soon crumble and dissolve back into the ground, leaving little evidence that they were there at all.

And maybe that is how it should be – to live a good life, stand tall, offer others support, shelter and nourishment, and when the time comes, leave this life a better place, without a scar.

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A R O U N D T H AT T I M E , I R E A L I S E D T H AT P O S I T I V I T Y WA S G O I N G TO B E M Y S AV I O U R .

As a person, I have changed since the drought, and I’d like to think for the better. Initially, I was so very relieved but weary, and I needed some time to get my head around the fact that the drought was done for now. I am older and wiser, more focused, more educated, have a bigger circle of friends and contacts. I am more aware of changes in the paddock, and in my community. I take even more photos and I have more confidence. I am appreciative of all that the drought has taught me, but I am not keen to revisit it any time soon. And that is one thing that I am definitely positive about!

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PROPERTY OWNER TRINA PATTERSON

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GWINGANNA L I F E S T Y L E

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R E T R E A T

WORDS BY

:

DAN I EL RE SN I K

I’M FEELING QUITE APPREHENSIVE A S I D R I V E U P T H E S T E E P D R I V E W AY TO WA R D S T H E G AT E S O F T H E AWARD -WIN N ING GWINGAN NA L I F E S T Y L E R E T R E AT L O C AT E D I N THE HINTERLAND OF QUEENSLAND’S G O L D C O A S T F O R A F I V E - D AY WELLNESS PROGRAM.

GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT ACCOMMODATION MEDITATION SUITES

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he retreat does not allow cigarettes, drugs, caffeinated drinks and alcohol and the reason for my hesitation is that my two addictions caffeine and sugar play a huge part in my life.

Only a 20-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport gets you to Gwinganna, a 200-hectare rainforest and lush bushland paradise. It is a perfect setting for the activities that are available here including: yoga, pilates, stretch classes, boxing, tribal dancing, swimming pool workouts, fully-equipped gymnasium, spa, seminar rooms, dining area and a variety of other activities and facilities.

There is also a beautifully appointed 33-room spa sanctuary that blends perfectly into the natural environment and is the largest spa in the Southern Hemisphere. The spa offers an extensive beauty and treatment menu to relax even the biggest of stress heads.

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MORNING ACTIVITIES U S U A L LY B E G I N AT S U N R I S E WITH AN ANCIENT CHINESE PR ACTICE CALLED QI G O N G , A C O M B I N AT I O N O F M E D I TAT I O N , C O N T R O L L E D B R E AT H I N G A N D M O V E M E N T.

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Gwinganna has 60 rooms with three styles of accommodation available - Heritage, Orchard Suites and Premium Villas. The villas are superb offering more privacy and some feature a lap pool, huge bath, ensuite, laundry facilities and a steam room.

We don't realize the junk we ingest into our bodies each day can be causing so much damage. During the seminars we learn exactly what excess caffeine, sugar and alcohol and other toxic substances are doing to our bodies.

During an introduction talk from general manager Sharon Kolkka, she informs us that wellness is her passion and at Gwinganna the aim is to inspire our healthiest intentions in an attempt to make a difference to our lives by offering respite from the maddening world.

Morning activities usually begin at sunrise with an ancient Chinese practice called Qigong, a combination of meditation, controlled breathing and movement. Following this are optional activities such as easy or challenging walks, stretching, yoga and others followed by a delicious and wholesome breakfast that’s served at 8am.

There are many reasons why people visit; overworked, stressed, grieving the loss of a loved one, relationship problems or issues one may have faced and not dealt with from many years ago or just trying to change over-indulgent lifestyles. With many health practitioners available, such as nutritionists, naturopaths, fitness instructors, yoga and pilates instructors amongst many others, guests are supported in every way during their stay.

Due to my love of coffee my body craves for a caffeine fix. The experts at Gwinganna tell me it’s normal for the first 24-48 hours to feel like this and the nurse station regularly gives out magnesium powders to mix in with your water to aid in recovery.

Only two days into our wellness retreat with no caffeine or sugar and my body is feeling refreshed and lighter.

After breakfast an array of resistance activities are available to help your body to achieve a combination of stability, balance and core strength including functional and flexibility movements.

Morning tea is usually served at the Wellness Education Complex followed by informative seminars and then a delicious 1pm lunch.

Following lunch is time to rest either in your comfortable room, relax in the sun by one of the pools or lay on the grass with a favourite book. This is also the time all the spa treatments and consultations with the onsite naturopaths and nutritionists are set.

During my five-day wellness program I indulge in three treatments - a men’s essential facial, Marma point relaxation therapy and an integrated massage therapy.

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ZUCCHINI NOODLE SALAD WITH PESTO AND PRAWN BOBO AND KALE RICE

After each treatment I happily float off towards my beautifully appointed villa to rest and get ready for our 7pm dinner usually passing the local peacock named Pete, who languidly checks us out, and groups of grazing wallabies.

With a huge amount of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, birds and a billabong harbouring a menagerie of inhabitants, you’re bound to bump into some of these wonderful creatures.

Creative, organic and delicious food is served at the dining room and the options are vegetarian, chicken, red meat and seafood.

Much of the produce is grown from the onsite organic gardens.

Each night the dinner served is exceptional and is followed by a delicious tea that leaves you with no cravings.

After five days without caffeine and sugar, limited social media and a wealth of knowledge acquired, I’m feeling great and starting to think that, with a few subtle changes, a new way of life may be definitely something to strongly consider.

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GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT 192 Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera Valley, Queensland gwinganna.com

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Qantas

f o u n d e r s

m u s e u m

D E C I D I N G TO TA K E I N A N AT I O N A L R O A D T R I P A R O U N D T H E C O U N T R Y G AV E U S T H E U LT I M AT E E XC U S E TO F U L F I L A B U C K E T L I S T A D V E N T U R E AN D DROP I N TO A L IT TL E TOWN C AL L ED LONG RE ACH , Q U EENSL AN D A N D V I S I T T H E O R I G I N A L H O M E O F Q A N TA S .

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I

can’t remember the number of flights I have taken on the QF Longreach Boeing 747-400 and now I’m arriving at the front door, albeit after a 19hour drive.

Turning off the Landsborough Highway, there it was, like an oasis, drawing you into this outback town, under a massive white hanger and surrounded by aviation history, the iconic Qantas 747 in all its glory.

The Qantas Founders Museum tells the story of Australia’s national airline, from its early days in outback Queensland to present day.

Characters of the early Qantas days, their pioneering spirit and the impact of the airline for all Australians is brought to life through life-size exhibits, historical artefacts and interactive displays including the National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar.

Qantas Founders Museum is a wonderful example of a community getting together to honour the achievements of the remarkable people who established the iconic airline in outback Queensland.

The trustee to the Qantas Foundation Memorial Trust, trading as the Qantas Foundation Memorial (QFM), is the parent company of Qantas Founders Museum.

We were met by the CEO Tony Bond and had a VIP guided tour of the Boeing 707, Boeing 747, Super Constellation and DC-3 in the museum’s new Airpark enclosure.

After an hour touring the museum we ended up simply enjoying the views across the tarmac from the restaurant and watching the many excited families taking in the history exploring the Founders Store buying a souvenir for themselves or a loved one.

In the evening we enjoyed the new Luminescent Longreach light and sound experience designed to delight, entertain, inform and move.

In 1988, a meeting of western Queensland communities established QFM and formed a trust in recognition of the enormous service Qantas had given to the people of the Outback.

These efforts culminated in June 1996, with the opening by the Governor General of the $1.3 million first stage of Qantas Founders Museum in the Qantas Hangar at Longreach.

The visionary foresight of the local community has been justified by the steady growth of visitor numbers and profitability. This would not have been possible without the hard work of museum directors, committees, volunteers, financial and in-kind support.

PHOTO :

Phil Harte

Since the museum’s opening, the need for a main and modern museum building had already been identified. With the assistance of government funding, stage two of Qantas

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Founders Museum was completed and opened in March 2002. The new climate-controlled building included a restaurant, four galleries, main exhibition hall, boardroom and office area.

Qantas Founders Museum continues to create new displays, exhibits and experiences to expand the Qantas story told by the museum.

Recent new exhibits and experiences include interactive table displays, Catalina Double Sunrise Display and museum tours.

Qantas Founders Museum is the custodian of significant Qantas aircraft including the Boeing 747-238 VH-EBQ ‘City of Bunbury’, the DC-3 VH-EAP and the Boeing 707-138 VH-EBA ‘City of Canberra’ – the first jet aircraft Qantas owned. To ensure the preservation of Australia’s aviation heritage for future generations to enjoy, Qantas Founders Museum undertook a $14.3 million project to build a roof over the museum’s aeroplane enclosure to protect these iconic aircraft from the fierce western Queensland sun.

With domestic holidays and adventure being placed on the top of the list, you really owe it to yourself to pack up the car and head to Longreach.

As we prepared to drive off into the sunset, it was with a sense of sadness knowing that our favourite Jumbos, the 747, are all slated for retirement and that we will have to wait for God knows how long to start flying again.

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RED MUDS SEPARATE THE OUTFLOWING BROWN WATERS OF DISASTER INLET

PHOTO :

To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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s o u t h

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a u s t r a l i a

THE SALT FLATS, JUST SOUTH OF PENONG, ON THE SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COAST

PHOTO :

To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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Luxury a t

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t h e

l o u i s e

SOUTH AUS TR AL IA WA S TO B E OU R NEX T CHALLENGE. WITH COVID19 HIT TING HARD AND THE BORDER CLOSURES IN FULL SWING , WE M ANAG ED TO G E T U N RE S TRIC TED ACCE SS TO SA , SO IT WA S ON TH E Q A N TA S 7A M A N D I N TO A D E L A I D E , P I CK U P O U R T H R I F T Y PA J ERO A N D H E A D TO T H E B A R O S S A VA L L E Y, CH ECKI NG I NTO TH E LOU ISE, ON E OF THE LUXURY LODGES OF AUSTR ALIA .

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he Louise is truly luxurious in all aspects - location and certainly the amazing hospitality. A two-room villa overlooking the vineyards with dinner reviews at the Appellation restaurant was certainly worth the trip.

After check-in, it was shoot time with Sheree Sullivan from Udder Delights, Kym Brown from Bringing Barossa to Your Door and out to one of the Barossa’s hidden gems, Hutton Vale Farm and an afternoon of baking scones for Jan Angas.

After our morning shoot, we sat in front of our open fire and spent two hours enjoying a fabulous breakfast of home-made muesli, a ricotta and spinach quiche, fresh juice and a plunger of local coffee.

At 12 noon it was time to head out to the Pheasant Farm to shoot and lunch with the queen of the kitchen, Maggie Beer, and her daughter, restaurateur Elli Beer.

What a day and what wonderful ambassadors for SA; the Beers have a truly must-visit venue, only five minutes from The Louise resort. You could really spend the day there; try the beetroot salads.

Our last night at The Louise was spent reviewing the Appellation restaurant with chef Daniel Murphy with four exquisite courses and a bottle of St Hugo.

As the sun rose over The Louise, Peter McSherry from South Coast Helicopters arrived, landing in the vineyards to pick up Steve and I as we head south to catch up with Dana Mitchell and her koala hospital on Kangaroo Island.

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e have visited the Barossa numerous times, but the next three days were to prove something quite spectacular with a host of bespoke experiences concocted by the crack team of The Louise.

Ideally situated in the heart of the Barossa wine country in South Australia, you’ll find absolute luxury and inspired design with private spaces, generous ensuites and breathtaking vineyard views.

Home to great food and wine in South Australia, it’s so much more. Open spaces, big skies, expansive vistas and gnarled old vines at every turn, the views are spectacular.

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O P EN SPACE S , B I G SK I E S , E X PA N S I V E V I S TA S A N D G N A R L E D O L D V I N E S AT EVERY TURN, THE VIEWS ARE S P E C TA C U L A R .

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APPELATION CUISINE: KINGFISH, CUCUMBER, BARLEY, SOUR CREAM AND YELLOWFIN TUNA CRUDO, APPLE CUCUMBER, LEMON MYRTLE, QUINOA

Our suite was nestled amongst the ancient vineyards and natural landscapes, allowing us to enjoy a sunrise picnic breakfast with kangaroos in their native bushland. We toured the undulating valley in a vintage car, and walked and cycled bush tracks amongst native flowers, birds and wildlife - a truly breathtaking few days.

Fortunately, we had the luxury of immersing ourselves with daily spa treatments, relaxing in the sauna and soaking in our private spa tub.

Afternoons were enjoyed drinking and toasting the sunset, cocooning and pampering ourselves in absolute comfort.

Evenings we prepared to celebrate a few hours at The Louise’s signature eatery Appellation, recognised as a world-class destination for dining in South Australia. With food that creatively reflects a sense of place, the kitchen team are dedicated storytellers of the Barossa Valley region, its produce, and its people.

The Appellation kitchen is all about fresh ingredients with 85 per cent of the menu coming from within the Barossa Valley and South Australia, with the balance from Australia.

Embracing ancient food traditions, virtually nothing is wasted.

Whole beasts are broken down to provide their butcher meats, and fruit and vegetables are preserved at their peak freshness to be used throughout.

A relaxed atmosphere, a menu sourcing the best local produce in peak of season, combined with the skill of a kitchen team that has an appreciation and understanding of traditional foodways while looking to evolve classic techniques, truly showcases the very best in contemporary regional dining.

Finally, being in the events business we were impressed with the bespoke meeting spaces scattered throughout the resort, both inside and also taking advantage of the spectacular natural outdoor spaces. The Louise has a professional meeting venue with dedicated event staff, private dining at Appellation, luxury accommodation, and the opportunity to explore one of the world’s top vineyard regions.

THE LOUISE 1375 Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga Barossa Valley, South Australia thelouise.com.au

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Sheree s u l l i v a n

T H E L A S T T W O M O N T H S O F 2 0 1 9 W E R E R E A L LY TO U G H F O R M Y H U S B A N D SAU L A N D I . W E H A D FACED SO M E SI G N I FI C A N T CH A L L EN G E S I N T H E B U S I N E S S , A N D W E W E R E L O O K I N G F O R WA R D TO 2 0 2 0 A S A F R E S H S TA R T.

O

n Thursday, December 19 we finished work and began our Christmas holidays ready to rejuvenate. By the following morning we’d heard of a fire burning in a neighbouring town of Cudlee Creek which I thought was just going to be put out. By lunch time our staff had received word to evacuate the town.

Our cheese factory was in Lobethal and was literally in the line of fire. I was disappointed thinking that we’d lose the whole day’s production and have to destroy any cheese that was mid-make. Little could I have anticipated that our staff would not re-enter Lobethal for another two days as it was too dangerous and had been closed by the authorities.

Fire had surrounded the town, and the safety decision had been made to cut off all power supply.

Our factory was on the Cuddlee Creek side of the town, and upon our return we could see that the fire made it to the back walls. Locals told us they saw the fire bombers drop the retardant to save the industrial site, giving the MFS and CFS enough time to get the trucks to us and fight it.

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PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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In t he end, we had to t hrow out 40 tonnes of handmade cheese – bries, blues, fetas and goat cheeses – wit h a retail value of approximately $1.6 million.

Driving into Lobethal and some of the surrounding areas felt like driving into a war zone. Everything was just so black, covered in ash, and burnt.

Not only did we have to destroy one day’s cheese production, but we ended up having to destroy every piece of cheese in the factory as it was unsafe for human consumption. It was smoke affected and sat at a temperature that was just too hot for too long. There was so much radiant heat on what was already a very hot day. In the end, we had to throw out 40 tonnes of handmade cheese – bries, blues, fetas and goat cheeses – with a retail value of approximately $1.6 million.

It was a very difficult time for us and all our staff as we were ready for a break and a new year, but instead we all had to dig deep and keep going.

It took over four months to finally get our stock levels back up, and then COVID-19 hit.

Our sales dropped by 50 per cent when the restaurants had to close and people had really filled up their pantries with food. However, we were still committed to purchase tens of thousands of litres of milk that we just did not need.

Since then sales have bounced again, and our goal is to employ as many people as we can, keep as many local dairies in business as we can, and feed as many Australians as we can - feed them with great cheese to nurture their souls and provide a small piece of affordable luxury from our lovely Adelaide Hills.

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I.N.O.X. MECHANICAL

UNWIND EVERYTHING EXCEPT WYOUR WATCH With its exquisite mechanical movement, this watch keeps things ticking along while you relax or take care of the big stuff. For those who appreciate craftsmanship and pitch-perfect performance.

FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

GETAWAYS SA WAS FOUNDED IN 1995 BY STEVE AND KYM BROWN, INSPIRED BY THE B&B ACCOMMODATION THEY EXPERIENCED IN TASMANIA ON THEIR HONEYMOON. OVER 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS, THEY HAVE WON OVER 50 TOURISM AND BUSINESS AWARDS. STEVE AND KYM ARE ALSO FOSTER CARERS TO THREE HIGHLY ACTIVE YOUNG CHILDREN AND KYM IS ALSO CARER TO HER 88-YEARS-YOUNG MUM LIVING WITH THE FAMILY.

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Kym Brown O F G E TA W AY S S A

CHALLENGES IN THE BAROSSA AND HOW WE ARE PULLING THROUGH

I

t was as if a switch had been flicked, turning off our towns, complete regions, and our communities overnight.

Regional tourism had already been impacted months before COVID-19 hit, with the devastations of droughts and fires wiping out communities and towns across South Australia. People were frightened to holiday and our touring capabilities to these areas was dramatically affected.

To help support the people in these regions, we rallied the Barossa community and were overwhelmed with donations of much needed supplies, which we loaded into our tour bus and delivered to Kangaroo Island, to the farmers in these affected areas.

Next, we were heading into our peak time, and then overnight the Barossa region was all shut down.

Tourism ground to a halt. Barossa had now suffered a triple impact of pain, with drought, fires and then COVID-19.

Steve and I, along with our team, were looking forward to 2020 to celebrate our achievements and journey over the past 25 years in business.

Our business, which offers 16 self-catering accommodation options in the Barossa Valley, seven vehicles touring throughout the regions of South Australia, along with reservation service booking products across South Australia, had completely stopped.

The Barossa shut down, the phones and emails went crazy, not from bookings, but from cancellations for our tours and accommodation, with cancellations as far out as October and November as people were frightened and unsure.

Like many businesses, we went from leading into our busiest period in tourism to zero income for the foreseeable future, all taken out of our hands and no way out.

During the Barossa cluster, we thought if the people could not come to the Barossa, why don’t we take the Barossa to the people. So, overnight we created a website, www.loveasalocal.com.au, and Bringing Barossa To Your Door was born.

This is a collaboration of proactive passionate businesses creating an in-house dining experience showcasing Barossa businesses, chef-prepared meals, Barossa cheese platters, Delluva Wines, all delivered direct to homes throughout Adelaide. This quickly expanded to a total of 20 Barossa businesses, some of which would sell their wares at local markets, offering gin, local brewed beer, breads and olive oils, providing a lifeline to these businesses, both from a mental health aspect as well as a financial perspective. We all needed support, to be kind and care for each other to survive and to just keep going.

At our peak, we had three delivery vans travelling all over Adelaide. We even had another tourism business that would normally operate segway tours volunteer to help us. This was also important for their own mental stimulation, too. It was important for us as one of our main goals was to create work also for our tour guides.

It was crucial for us to show strength and unity, generating a buzz, and providing self-worth and stimulation in our community; encouraging our fellow business owners to keep on going, and that we are in it all together.

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endurance on t he Land

A F T E R T W O Y E A R S O F R E CO R D - B R E A K I N G D R O U G H T, O U R PA S T U R E S W E R E D U S T, W H E N A N U N E X P E C T E D R A I N E V E N T I N FEB RUA RY B RO U G H T J OY TO O U R H E A RTS , FO L LOWED BY T H E G E R M I N AT I O N O F G R E E N PA S T U R E S A C R O S S O U R B E A U T I F U L ROL LING H IL L S . WE HAD SU RVIVED ANOTH ER CHAL L ENG E, A N D N O W O N LY H A D TO WA I T F O R F O L L O W - U P R A I N .

WORDS BY

A

:

JANE ANGAS

month later, on a sunny morning, my trusted husband nudged me out of slumber as he asked: “Are we selling the farm today, or shall I get out of bed and do another day’s work?”

I asked: “Did it rain last night, or do I have to watch the last of the germinated green shoots wither, shrink and slowly die?” With a sigh he said: “I will get up anyway and make you a cup of tea.”

I consider myself a strong woman, never shy of a challenge in work, and at my best when needed to step up and take control. This had long been tested in the last decade with the challenges of flood, extreme frost, fire, and two years of record-breaking drought making six years in 10 wiped out, no income, all due to our uncontrolled mistress, Mother Nature.

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PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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Have you t he strengt h to join me in making five to 10 small changes in what you do to ligh ten t he weigh t on t he world?

This year, 2020, has showed me just how strong long-term farming families have become.

COVID-19 has affected many businesses and people losing their income through no fault of their own. In Australia we are lucky the government has been supportive in the pandemic with payments to keep people in their job. Farming families lack similar support as they struggle with the effects of a changing climate, which can affect their income dramatically.

When you work the land for your income, resilience is key. Pick your winners, accept your losses, and find ways to survive deep disappointment incurred through no fault of your own.

The old saying to put away in the good years for when the bad year comes was so true last century, when you had one bad year in nine.

Now we have three bad years in five due to climatic conditions that are beyond an individual farmer’s control. It is caused by the way the world population lives and works.

I remain optimistic, but ask: “Will a global pandemic illuminate the looming tragedy ahead?” We all have played a part in creating a suffocating world, with huge populations and high expectations in ‘stuff’, things that are new today and landfill of tomorrow. The environment is slowly choking, weakening and losing grip to survive just like those little germinated shoots, waiting for rain with the last surge of energy before giving up.

Agriculture is on the front line, the litmus paper if you like, of what will eventually affect every living thing on earth. Denial and ignorance are no longer a valid answer.

Have you the strength to join me in making five to 10 small changes in what you do to lighten the weight on the world? Start with simple things, then share with 10 more people to do the same for a world movement to begin.

You can help our Earth to clear her lungs and repair the weather patterns to bring agriculture back to one bad season in nine and a healthier planet.

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PHOTO :

Phil Harte

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appetite f o r

l i f e

IT ’ S HARD I F NOT I M P OSSI B L E TO NOT H E AR OR COM E ACROSS T H I S R EM A R K A B L E L A DY I F YO U A R E I N O R A RO U N D FO O D, O R E V E N I F YO U S I M P LY L O V E F O O D .

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Spending a couple of hours with Maggie Beer and her powerhouse daughter Elli was inspirational, seeing two no-nonsense gourmets running this culinary empire.

Lunching and chatting with the Beers went like this.

They are so excited about this new chapter at the farm led by Maggie and Colin’s youngest daughter, Elli (with Mum and Dad firmly behind her in the renovations) and it has given a whole new meaning to what was the Function Centre building.

Along with a fresh design, The Eatery has talented young chef, Tim Bourke, on board, whom Maggie first met at the renowned Southern Ocean Lodge.

Both are as passionate as each other about beautiful, simple, seasonal food.

Tim will create a daily menu from the charcoal grill during the week and, across weekends and busy holiday times, the new wood-fired oven on the decking will be fired up for pizzas.

There is also the chance to book a private dining experience for up to 24 guests with an ever changing ‘Feed Me’ menu.

In January 1979, Maggie’s Farm Shop was born, from which Maggie sold pheasants (along with quail and guinea fowl) prepared and cooked in different ways. Although Maggie never formally learnt to cook, she simply used her instincts and cooked from the heart, always adhering to the Barossa ethos of wasting nothing.

Before the end of that year they had turned this humble Farm Shop into a restaurant. The basic premise was to cook simple dishes using the bounty of seasonal harvest from the Barossa, focusing on flavour, not fashion. It was a constant learning process, but it was also immensely rewarding. “There is nothing quite as seductive as doing what you love, and having others loving it too,” Maggie says.

BOTH ARE A S PA S S I O N AT E A S E ACH OTH ER ABOUT BEAUTIFUL, SIMPLE, SEASONAL FOOD. T I M W I L L C R E AT E A D A I LY M E N U F R O M THE CHARCOAL GRILL DURING THE WEEK AND ACROSS WEEKENDS AND BUSY H O L I D AY T I M E S , THE NEW WOODFIRED OVEN ON THE DECKING WILL BE FIRED UP FOR PIZZAS.

Running a restaurant of this nature is pretty demanding, and living right there on the farm in the rooms adjoining the restaurant, it seemed their work was never done. Their weekly escape was to go horse-riding with fiends through the countryside, always taking a different path. On one of these rides Maggie discovered a beautiful cottage, only a few kilometres away from the farm, and fell in love with it immediately.

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PHIL HARTE BEHIND THE SCENES WITH A TRUE AUSTRALIAN ICON, MAGGIE BEER RIGHT: ELLI AND MAGGIE BEER

It was surely meant to be, as a few years later the farm was bought at auction. It was, and remains, the perfect family home. A beautiful pear tree, large as an oak and as tall as the cottage itself (and probably of similar age), still stands by the original well, planted to make the well water sweet, as tradition would have it.

It was here Maggie’s orchard began. The dream of having her own orchard was inspired by a perfectly ripe white peach she had picked straight off a tree near the farm when they first arrived in the Barossa. Maggie also chose fruit that was difficult to find in shops; crab apples, medlars, greengage plums, persimmons and pomegranates, and she even took cuttings from friends’ trees, not knowing the variety but just loving the taste of the fruit.

These trees, and many others planted since, continue to provide a veritable bounty of fruit each season, and keep them busy pickling and preserving all year round.

In 1991, the Pheasant Farm restaurant won the Remy Martin Cognac/Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year Award, and this was the turning point. Up until then it had been just a simple country restaurant with a particularly loyal and interested clientele who kept them full almost every weekend.

Closing the restaurant in November 1993 was a tough decision to make, however, one door had to close for others to open, and open they did. Maggie could never have contemplated just how full and exciting life would continue to be.

Starting to sell pate commercially in the early 1980s, and by the time the restaurant closed, Pheasant Farm Pate was doing well enough to support the business, even though they were really only supplying those who had heard about the product through word-of-mouth.

The pate business expanded rapidly and in 1996 they opened a purpose-built, state-of-the-art export kitchen.

Much to everyone’s amusement, Maggie absolutely insisted on calling it a kitchen, not a factory, as even

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though they now make pate by the tonne, they still produce it in small batches, with no preservatives added. Whilst this has proved immensely challenging, flavour is something she just won’t compromise on.

The business provides enormous scope to create limited amounts of products based on the best seasonal produce available, whether it’s a ute full of peaches or a trailer load of blood oranges, free from the commercial imperative that a larger-scale operation would bring.

Each of the products stems from a desire to make the most of every bit of their own harvest, in its way honouring the bird, tree or vine by wasting nothing.

When thinking of how they made their first batch of verjuice in 1984 from grapes they couldn’t sell that year and how, albeit gradually, they led the worldwide renaissance of this amazing ingredient and made it indispensable in so many kitchens, Maggie has to pinch herself. Being vignerons since 1973, at each vintage they would have plenty of opportunity to experiment with using grapes in many different ways (no matter how much they were wanted for wine!). This continual experimentation, along with her voracious reading on Mediterranean culinary traditions, also lead to the creation of vino cotto, Desert Pearls nonalcoholic sparkling drink, and cabernet sauces and pastes.

So now Maggie has come full circle.

Today the Farm Shop, the precursor to the much-loved restaurant, is up and running again on the same site, tucked away down a quiet country road. It’s where everything began and, humble though it is, Maggie never tires of the surprise and delight she sees on people’s faces as they come in.

Even though she now sells her products all over the world, Maggie’s Farm Shop remains her direct link to the public.

“Every day I walk in the door, it’s like coming home, and I know I’ll never lose that feeling,” says Maggie.

T H E C H A L L E N G E S H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T - H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

Challenges come in all shapes and sizes and times - and it’s simply a case of first getting over the immediate issues that things like flood and fire have presented; then just tackling the things that needed to be done whilst at the same time looking to see if in fixing the issues, something can be done better. This doesn’t happen without lateral thinking and positive energy and support from each other.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPI R IT ?

I would love to think we could still use the ‘Aussie larrikin’ as our overriding spirit. However, I’m concerned that our successive governments and bureaucracy have made us into a nation where we are no longer the risk takers we were of old. Having said that, there is the true Aussie humour that hopefully will always be; self-deprecating and droll. We have to push back about the ‘nanny-ness’ of our states. However what does remain is the Aussie spirit totally remains of supporting each other when drastic things happen such as bushfires and floods. We are as a country a generous lot.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO

YO U ?

Community to me is about belonging; about having a network of people and organisations that listen to each other and help when help is needed.

MAGGIE BEER Pheasant Farm Rd, Nuriootpa, South Australia maggiebeer.com.au

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SOUTH COAST HELICOPTERS PILOT PETER MCSHERRY AND PHIL HARTE

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ords can’t quite explain this trip, imagining hundreds of koalas recovering, wrapped in bandages, scorched by the bushfires and desperately hanging on to life, all whilst being cared for by a small group of heroes headed up

by Dana.

After a cuppa and a cuddle with Ash, the first koala to be rescued, we took off bound for the Dudley vineyards on the cliffs of Kangaroo Island and a close-up with Tammy’s vineyards and a flyover of some of the devastated farm land.

Tammy met us with traditional open arms and platters of tapas with some local shiraz, and as we sat on the restaurant deck, we could see straight across the ocean to downtown South Australia.

Time to head out as we had a final review with chef Sean Connolly’s new Adelaide spectacular, Sean’s Kitchen, to enjoy a wagyu scotch fillet medium rare, a plate of sushi and a signature Caesar salad.

It’s 5pm and camera down, straight to the airport and finally the last Qantas flight home, so I get to spend some quality time celebrating my son’s birthday with a few mates back at the home of Classic Agenda Heroes, the Hyatt Regency Sydney, social distancing at the Zephyr Sky Bar overlooking spectacular Darling Harbour.

Weeks have passed since our initial journey to Braidwood, with the memories of looking from my balcony, unable to see the harbour, cleaning the ash from the outdoor furniture, now with a thick layer of brown, mud-like silt clogging the vents, I can only imagine the devastation felt by the residents across these communities.

This year’s adventure wasn’t one to only visit areas stricken by nature’s wrath. It was to showcase just how resilient we are and, most importantly, urge all Australians to pack up the car and venture out, as I did, and visit these communities, to spend a few days, even weeks, exploring and holidaying with the kids and enjoying what we all have taken for granted.

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AS THE SUN ROSE OVER THE LOUISE, PETER MCSHERRY FROM SOUTH COAST HELICOPTERS ARRIVES LANDING IN THE VINEYARDS TO PICK UP STEVE AND I AS WE HEAD SOUTH TO CATCH UP WITH DANA MITCHELL AND HER KOALA HOSPITAL ON KANGAROO ISLAND.

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LEARN TO PHOTOGRAPH THE AUSSIE OUTDOORS WITH CANON

Photographer: Jenn Cooper Location: Tin City is a fascinating settlement amid the sand dunes of Stockton Beach in NSW.

Give your travel images the edge with photography tips and tutorials from Canon.

Visit www.canon.com.au/learn

MISSION D A N A

M I T C H E L l ' S

E V E R Y S U M M E R T H E R E A R E F I R E S T H AT M A K E U S H O L D O U R B R E AT H , R E A DY TO E N A C T O U R B U S H F I R E P L A N S . N E V E R C O U L D W E H AV E P L A N N E D F O R W H AT W E WERE HIT WITH , NO ONE COULD.

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efore the fires that the world watched unfold, a nearby fire brought us our first burn patient on December 9. I smelt the burnt flesh before I saw her paws and it is a smell that I will never forget, one that I soon became all too familiar with. Her paws were red raw and peeling.

I immediately set into action to help this tiny baby and, with the help of our incredible KI Vets, little Ash was bandaged and on the road to recovery with her new mum, me.

With that fire threat subsided, we jumped back into our normal summer holiday busyness around the park. However, the end of 2019 brought our worst fears to life. Dry-lightning storms hit across the island sparking several dangerous fires. We watched the fires grow and threaten so many people across Kangaroo Island, fearing that at any time we would be next.

As the sun began to set on the new year, the first burnt koalas arrived. A local couple whose property was hit by fires had a horse float carrying

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seven koalas. I didn’t have time to be speechless at the heartbreaking scene before me. They needed immediate critical care. So, with Connor on my hip, we rushed to work to hydrate and get pain relief to those we thought may have a chance. Sadly, for the few with melted hands and horrifically burnt faces, euthanasia was the most humane and only option.

The following week turned our fears into a living nightmare. Our first thoughts of only seeing a few burnt koalas quickly escalated when the Ravine fire ripped through the entire western end of the island and days later snaked throughout the centre of the island, decimating the scrub. Day after day, night after night, burn victims arrived in cars, trucks, trailers, baskets and even fire trucks. There were more koalas arriving to see than there was time in the day.

We had teams of vets and nurses, volunteers and staff all working back to back, side by side, together in unorganised chaos to help as many animals as we could.

My entire day, and most of the night, was filled with back-to-back joey feedings and treatment.

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Phil Harte

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If I wasn’t with the babies, I was helping with the adults in the hospital. Every joey that arrived was seen by the vets, then brought into the house to see me and my dedicated team of feeders.

Altogether I had 73 joeys come into the house. Many of them were touch and go for a long time, battling severe burns, bone exposure and infection. Some we lost overnight after admission. For some, euthanasia was the best option, but the ones that hit me the hardest were those that were with me for months, only to lose their battle. Every single one of them, no matter how short their time with us, became my babies and either hold a special place in my heart or took a piece of my heart when they were buried. Out of those 73, 42 of my babies survived. Our wildlife rescue operation on Kangaroo Island saw over 600 animals, primarily koalas in need of critical care.

Over 250 have now gone back to the wild. It was one of the largest wildlife rescue operations in Australia in one place at one time.

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Every single one of t hem, no mat ter how short t heir time wit h us, became my babies and eit her hold a special place in my heart or took a piece of my heart when t hey were buried.

DANA MITCHELL AND SON CONNOR CARING FOR THE BADLY INJURED KOALAS

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CRACKED MUD AND DEAD TREES FORM PATTERNS ON THE SOUTHEAST END OF KANGAROO ISLAND 35,52.84S 137,39.76E 226 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

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C L A S S I C T R A V E L L E R | L O C AT I O N

Jamila g o r d o n

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F THROUGH THIS ORDEAL?

I am generally very outcome driven. That has its good sides when building a business, but the pandemic has prompted me to slow down and pay more attention to the shared human struggles happening around me. I’ve learnt that half an hour taken to really listen to people is a gift both ways; as a result, I now take weekly half-hour walks out of doors with individual team members just to share what is top of mind. It is something I probably would not have given enough priority to in the rush-rush pace of things pre-COVID. I have always had a spiritual side – one I don’t often share. The pandemic has reminded me of how rewarding it is to meditate, to garden, to sit and look at the sea and still my mind and find balance.

I have also been reminded during these dark times that to give is to get; so thinking of others and their needs and, where possible doing positive things for them, has been incredibly rewarding – sometimes this may be no more than being mindful that not everyone is coping, and doing whatever I can to help.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPIRIT?

When things get tough, we find a way through, together. We’ve seen that with the bushfires and drought, and we’re seeing it now, as we all fight this virus.

I also think we have a mindset of collective responsibility, where we want to make sure that people are given genuine opportunity and where everyone ‘gets a fair go’. That applies to everyone getting a decent education and having the chance to chase their dreams. It also applies to things like Medicare and JobKeeper and making sure people don’t ‘fall through the cracks’. We aren’t perfect, but there is far more that unites us than divides us, and I am incredibly proud of my country!

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U THROUGH?

I am pretty resilient and relentlessly positive. After facing and overcoming the adversity I experienced as a child and young woman, there just isn’t much that fazes me. I’ve also been very fortunate in that Lumachain is a software business, so we’ve used these past six months to build out our product set, focus on the team, and engage with customers (albeit virtually). As a result, we’ve been able to slingshot out of the shutdown.

What I have been really conscious of is how incredibly challenging this year has been for many friends and colleagues. I’ve tried to make a point of staying connected to them, checking in, having a laugh and trying to cheer them up. Now more than ever we need to look after each other.

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v i c t o r i a

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THE POPE’S EYE, THE ENTRANCE TO PORT PHILLIP BAY

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dining d i s t i n g u i s h e d

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A N E S C A P E TO T H E L A K E H O U S E I N D AY L E S F O R D AT T H E F O O H I L L S O F V I C TO R I A' S G R E AT D I V I D I N G R A N G E I S A J O U R N E Y TO T H E C U L I N A R Y P L E A S U R E S O F A R E G I O N T H A T I S R I C H W I T H A D I V E R S I T Y O F S M A L L- S C A L E F A R M E R S D EL IV ERI N G FRE SH LOC AL PRO DUCE TO ITS KITCH EN DOO R .

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xploring the Lake House property is in itself an adventure. Our options were to have a hit of tennis followed by tea and refreshments in the tennis pavilion or a glass of wine by the fire in the Argyle Library Bar. Given the opportunity to explore the gardens, you will come upon significant trees, a myriad of sculptures and artwork from many of the region’s top artists, extensive outdoor terraces overlooking the lake shore and established country gardens with everything from koalaloved stringy barks to lilac, Daphne, quince, plum and apple trees. The property attracts a large number of native birds including rosella, parrot, kingfisher and kookaburra.

All guests receive complimentary car parking, porterage, daily newspaper and internet access.

Access to the cult and classic DVD library and use of the full-size tennis court, sauna and spa are also complimentary.

There are additional services such as in-room dining or a butler service for evening drinks, or perhaps arrange a picnic hamper, a private tasting in The Cellar or a car service back to the airport. The crack team can set up a visit to any of the best local wineries or give you directions to the closest place to land a helicopter. For those after a little blissful pampering, the Salus Spa awaits. Leave it in their hands.

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P R O D U C E I S O F T E N H A N D - P I C K E D F O R A M O R N I N G D E L I V E RY. LO C A L L A M B , R A R E B R E E D P O R K , G R A S S - F E D B E E F, F R E S H WAT E R F I S H , S H E E P A N D G O AT ’ S M I L K C H E E S E , H E I R L O O M F R U I T F R O M O L D O R C H A R D S A N D W I N D FA L L S F R O M L O C A L G A R D E N S A R R I V E AT T H E K I TC H E N .

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The passionate hospitality team delivers beautiful, seasonal food pairings with an internationally acclaimed wine list. Under the direction of culinary director Alla WolfTasker AM, the kitchen works from the ground up producing virtually everything from house-baked breads to an extensive charcuterie range on the premises. Alla’s dream of a raft of excellent small-scale local suppliers has finally come about – due in no small part to her own efforts. Several excellent organic farms are now located within minutes of Lake House.

WATERFRONT PAVILION SETTING

Produce is often hand-picked for a morning delivery. Local lamb, rare breed pork, grassfed beef, freshwater fish, sheep and goat’s milk cheese, heirloom fruit from old orchards and windfalls from local gardens arrive at the kitchen, which since the early 1980s has fostered an open-door policy, mentoring and supporting small sustainable producers and growers and developing a local food culture amongst fellow restaurateurs, chefs and residents.

Regulars will tell you of their favourite season and of memorable dishes, perhaps the butter-poached pheasant with chestnuts and farrow in autumn, or the spring lamb with asparagus and morels. The duck with orange-braised witlof; the golden roasted free-range chicken of summer with corn and yabbies; or the truffled pecorino tart with artichokes barigoule, eel, Murray cod and trout; rabbit and hare - all speak of local waterways and fields.

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Wild damsons, Winter Nelis pears, quinces and yellow crab apples feature in fabulous desserts and, in time-honoured country fashion, are also made into delicious preserves for enhancing leaner seasons.

Each seasonal menu takes you on a trip down country lanes, through the orchards and across the farm paddocks of the region.

During the day, the sunlit restaurant offers magnificent views through wonderfully large windows. As we were enjoying drinks at dusk on the outdoor terraces, it allowed us to witness the daily ritual of our resident kookaburra family flying in to be fed.

LAKE HOUSE King Street, Daylesford, Victoria lakehouse.com.au

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ESKY e m p t y

ON JANUARY 6, 2020, T WO MELBOURNE FRIENDS ERIN BOUTROS AND E L E A N O R B A I L L I E U W E R E WATC H I N G T H E H O R R I F I C B U S H F I R E C R I S I S U N F O L D .

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Due to evacuations in the town, and power outages, her business lost all of its summer trade and over $20,000 of stock had to be thrown away.

Having previously worked in international development and understanding the recovery process for a community impacted by crisis, they both knew supporting local businesses would be the most direct way to help.

Having to find a way to cover the ongoing bills, Susan asked if Empty Esky could promote the barbecue sauce she had created to sell online. Empty Esky asked the community if 100 people could purchase a bottle of sauce to support Susan and her family. By the end of the day, over 500 bottles had been sold.

After a brief chat, Erin and Eleanor set up an Instagram called Empty Esky to encourage some friends to join them both on a road trip with an empty esky, and purchase from local business once the fires ceased. The next day they woke up to 8,000 followers.

Susan messaged Erin and said the influx of sales meant her car would not be repossessed.

The Alpine Sauce Company has now sold over 10,000 bottles Australia-wide and developed new products which has allowed Susan and her family to survive this year.

The Empty Esky campaign continued to grow and evolve, and currently has over 80,000 people in the community committed to supporting regional towns. Thousands of businesses have been supported through the movement and amazing stories have emerged.

Empty Esky continues to inspire all Australians to support local business and aid economic recovery by looking at disaster relief differently.

eeing the devastation and destruction on television and being confronted with thick heavy smoke in Melbourne over 300km from any fires had prompted friends Erin Boutros and Eleanor Baillieu to take action.

When the campaign first began, Erin and Eleanor received a message from a lady called Susan who owned The Chicken Shop in Bright.

EMPTY ESKY #emptyesky emptyesky.com.au

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Tayla Harris k i c k i n g

g o a l s

T H E C H A L L E N G E S H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T - H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

I see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. I thrive in pressure situations and see it as fight or flight, and I will always fight tooth and nail.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPI R IT ?

Aussie spirit is, I believe, one of camaraderie, mateship, honest hard work and good times.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

Community to me is where one can feel cared for, safe and accepted. Having a sense of community means to mutually commit to a common goal and stick by those who join you through thick and thin, to stand for something bigger than individuals, to understand and learn from others around you.

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U T H R O U G H ?

My values have always been strong and uncompromising. I grew up being taught that kindness is paramount in life and that everyone deserves a chance.

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F T H R O U G H THIS ORDEAL?

I’ve learnt that thanks to my upbringing and my amazing parents and support network, I am resilient and can get through anything with an open mind and the willingness to allow others to help me along the way.

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J a n e

M a r t i n o

CHAIR AND CO-FOUNDER , SMILING MIND

S H E M AY N O T W E A R N U R S E S ’ S C R U B S O R C A R R Y A S T E T H O S C O P E , B U T J A N E M A R T I N O I S U N Q U E S T I O N A B LY O N T H E F R O N T L I N E O F F I G H T I N G O N E O F A U S T R A L I A’ S B I G G E S T H E A LT H I S S U E S . A S T H E C H A I R A N D C O - F O U N D E R O F S M I L I N G M I N D – A N O T- F O R - P R O F I T M I N D F U L N E S S P L AT F O R M C O N S I D E R E D A W O R L D L E A D E R I N P R E - E M P T I V E M E N TA L H E A LT H C A R E – J A N E I S D E T E R M I N E D TO P R O V I D E F R E E A N D A C C E S S I B L E S U P P O R T TO E V E R Y A U S T R A L I A N ; PA R T I C U L A R LY F O L LO W I N G O N E O F O U R M O S T D I F F I C U LT Y E A R S O N R E C O R D .

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D ‘ C O M M U N I T Y ’ M E A N TO YO U ?

T H E C H A L L E N G E S O F 2 02 0 H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T. W H AT ’ S B E E N T H E I M PA C T O N M E N TA L H E A LT H A N D H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT WITH THESE ISSUES?

Without doubt the bushfires, floods, drought and pandemic have had a huge impact on our mental health. Since September 2019, we’ve seen a 500 per cent increase in demand and usage of Smiling Mind, with our highest downloads in our almost 10-year history happening in the past quarter. Our surveys show 50 per cent of users are experiencing high or very high levels of stress, that our community is feeling more isolated and disconnected, and experiencing increased sleep issues. Mindfulness helps us tune in to the present moment; to release any sense of worry or anxiety about the past or future. Naturally it’s stressful having so many unknowns right now: Can I reopen my business? When will I see my friends and family again? Those challenges and questions still remain, and there’s little we can do to control them. But regular practice really helps us all to manage during periods of the unknown. Mindfulness brings us back to the present moment, and helps us focus on the here and now. I’ve been practising mindfulness and meditation for many years, and it’s done so much for me.

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I had three kids in three years, sold my first business, and then spent a lot of time in my local community. It was there I saw a lot of anxiety, particularly among young people. I was involved in our local primary school, where statistics show one in seven children will experience some form of mental illness. I wanted to turn those statistics around, and transform the priority we place on mental health from a young age. I knew Smiling Mind had to be accessible and scalable to reach those who need it most, which is why we always intended for access to the platform to be free, and structured the organisation as a not for profit. For me, it’s my expression of joy and gratitude for the impact meditation and mindfulness has had on my life – I want everyone no matter their location, age or position to be able to experience it, too.

That’s what community is.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPIRIT?

It was the Aussie spirit that drove James (Jane’s co-founder) and I to pursue this project almost a decade ago. We were told it would never work by all but a few believers who saw and shared our vision. But our Aussie spirit of resilience, tenacity, and not taking no for an answer allowed us to bring this project to life.

It’s a story of hope.

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A JEWELL IN THE CROWN OF THE KIMBERLEYS, LOW TIDE ON MELOMYS ISLAND

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Margaret River t h e

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C A P E L O D G E A L S O O F F E R S A G O U R M E T R E T R E AT A N D C O O K I N G S C H O O L DESIGNED FOR CULINARY ENTHUSIASTS.

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ositioned in the heart of the great wine region of Margaret River, Cape Lodge attracts those who are seeking a private, stylish and sophisticated retreat, and those with a yearning to discover outstanding food and wine. Cape Lodge neighbours include the great wineries of Vasse Felix, Moss Wood, Pierro and Cullen. The Lodge, part of the Luxury Lodges of Australia group, has has 22 romantically secluded rooms and a magnificent five-bedroom private luxury residence. The superb Cape Lodge Restaurant - long one of the great dining rooms in Western Australia - offers classically prepared French-influenced country fare showcasing the best of Margaret River’s produce sourced from local farms, the kitchen garden and the freshest of seafood from nearby pristine oceans. Cape Lodge also offers a Gourmet Retreat and Cooking School designed for culinary enthusiasts.

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Sitting on 40 acres of manicured parkland and ornamental lakes, Cape Lodge has its own eightacre vineyard producing fine sauvignon blanc and shiraz exclusively for guests of the hotel.

Wellness travel is highly individual and means many different things to different people. Guests of Luxury Lodges of Australia seek luxury spas and the best spa resorts in Australia, and they also seek wellness via deep connection to nature and time for themselves.

Together the expenditure of leisure time, and the decision to ensure that your positive health and wellness choices travel with you, are influencing the way guests make their travel choices. It is also broadening the concept of what is wellness travel, from the pure concepts of wellness via dedicated, beautiful spas and retreats, to the powerful reconnection with nature to find knowledge, inner peace and mindfulness, to having access to yoga and other therapy professionals wherever you are, to food, beverage, pillow, music and a myriad of other choices. It is also about having positive impact on where you are as well as how you are.

Taking time out to relax is acknowledged and revered as one of life's true luxuries and essential contributor to wellness and wellbeing. For many, wellness is something that is an expected part of travel, not the journey itself.

The enjoyment of superb food and wine (and a multitude of other beverages) is integral to the experience offered by every Luxury Lodge of Australia. Quality Australian produce, wine and beverage lists with great depth are a common theme to be enjoyed by all guests and a true differentiator for a 'luxury lodge'.

And it is not just the 'restaurant' experience that resonates with guests. The lodges collectively offer a range of immersive, hands-on, and creative experiences connecting guests with the people, produce, producers and artisans of their region.

That said, the dining experience offered by some properties is truly its reason for being, and to visitors for whom food and wine is a primary reason to travel, these properties have compelling appeal.

Having flown into Perth from Sydney, we chose to connect to local tour operator Rob Honks of Busselton Aviation, and for not much more than a limo transfer you can fly right into Busselton Margaret River Airport in 25 minutes and have your favourite chardonnay within the hour. It’s all part of that bucket list moment.

CAPE LODGE 3341 Caves Rd, Yallingup, Western Australia capelodge.com.au

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PHOTO: RACHEL BACH

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PHOTOGRAPH BY: MICHAEL WILLSON/AFL PHOTOS

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A U S T R A L I A N S O C C E R S TA R S A M K E R R H A S A C H I E V E D S O M U C H AT A YO U N G A G E . A F T E R A S T E L L A R C A R E E R I N A U S T R A L I A A N D T H E U S , T H E M AT I L D A S C A P TA I N A N D F O R M E R YO U N G A U S T R A L I A N O F T H E Y E A R I S N O W B A S E D I N T H E U K P L AY I N G F O R C H E L S E A . H E R A C C O L A D E S I N T H E W O R L D O F S O C C E R A R E D R I V E N B Y H E R T E N AC I T Y A N D FA M E D F I G H T I N G S P I R I T.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

T H E C H A L L E N G E S H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T - H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

It's been a very tough year for everyone. No one would have thought we would be going through a global pandemic. I made the move to the UK to play for a great football club and it certainly has been a different experience. I have gone from having a hectic planned out life to having so much uncertainty which has made me live from week to week. For me personally it's certainly affected me mentally but I've tried to not try and look far ahead and to live in the now. I do find that when I take it day by day it is much easier to worry less about things like football, when I will see my family next and when life will return to normal.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPIRIT?

The Aussies have such a great attitude. It's the 'never say die' attitude that gets them through everything. No matter what is going on I truly believe that the Aussies always find a way to get together, support one another and get on with it or fight back. I am proud to be an Aussie.

Community to me is like an extended support system.

You feel at home in your community and I think that is what it stands for. To be supported by people around you.

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U THROUGH?

I just remind myself that even though there were some major struggles, I was very fortunate to be in the position that I am. There are many people who are worse off than me and I do my best to have that reality check every now and then and be extremely grateful. It's really important for me to support those around me who are not doing so well.

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R SEL F T H RO U G H T H I S O R D E A L ?

I have learnt how independent I really am. I also realised how lucky I am to have some great friends and family in my life. They mean the world to me. Sometimes you can forget and take relationships you have in your life for granted. Missing my family has been my biggest struggle but I'm so grateful I have people all around the world there for me.

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TONY HEWITT STORY

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O U R R E L AT I O N S H I P W I T H T H E C O A S T I S S O M E H O W C O N N E C T E D TO T H E B E L I E F T H AT O U R ‘ I S L A N D H O M E ’ E N D S W H E R E T H E L A N D M E E T S T H E S E A . T H I S B O U N D A R Y, M O S T LY F O R G E D B Y N AT U R E , R E P R E S E N T S A FA M I L I A R I T Y, W H I C H N O N E T H E L E S S B O R D E R S T H E U N K N O W N , W I T H I T S U N TO L D A N D U NC APTU RED PIC TORIAL MYS TERI E S .

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22,02.45S 149,33.26E

REFLECTED LIGHT ECHOES BLUES AND GOLDS IN THE SHALLOWS OF THE COAST OF NORTH QUEENSLAND

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TO N Y H E W I T T I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H D E N I S G L E N N O N S P E N T 3 1 D AY S T R A C I N G T H E AUSTR ALIAN COA STLINE BY AIR AND CAPTURING THE AMA ZING COLOURS , SHAPES A N D T E X T U R E S O F O U R I S L A N D CO N T I N E N T F O R T H E G I R T B Y S E A P R OJ E C T.

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SAND BAR OFF CRAB ISLAND ON THE WESTERN SIDE OF CAPE YORK PENINSULA

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ven with an inhabited history of over 50,000 years, most inhabitants perceive Australia as a land with more shoreline than souls; a land that has been explored and tenanted, mythologised, walked over and sailed around. Yet it is still a land full of the unacquainted and the mysterious, a land that has resisted containment by terrestrial-bound explorers and numinous lenses. Most people growing up on our island continent never truly grasp the ‘vastness’ that is Australia, and it is not until much later in life that a lucky few truly comprehend the size of the land we call home. Few visitors come here seeking our constructed ciphers; they come for the wildness, to experience open spaces beneath an impossibly open sky, overflowing with millions of stars, dwarfing everything.

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Australians, too, are drawn to the same wildness and vastness, attracted by a near ceremonial preoccupation in 4WDs, caravans and campers laden with adventure gear. We are eager to hike, climb, camp, kayak, fish, surf, sail and discover the most remote corners of our coastline. We are primarily a nation of coastal dwellers, yearning to explore and dream about the faraway places beyond our familiar anchor points.

To wander, observe, document and share our explorations is in our DNA, evolving from a searching compulsion rooted in our sensory make-up. It is an unfulfilled longing in our bones. It is an urge reminiscent of that which drives all adventurers and in those with whom they share their visual and oral stories. This photographic odyssey taps into that yearning and relationship, that integral part of the Australian psyche, into the vibrant affinity we have with our land and coastline.

In contrast with the early explorers, today we can now capture what we see in microscopic detail and bring the enchanting raw beauty of one of the most remote coastlines on the planet back to an almost unlimited audience. We seek to share, through fine art images, our perspectives of the ever-changing appearance of the Australian coastline – revealing its textures and forms, the colours and tapestries of the relatively thin boundary separating land from deep water, the remoteness of large areas of the northern and southern coasts, and the traces of our wanderings to the far corners of our natural and constructed seascapes.

It has been a true gift to fulfil a lifetime’s ambition, to experience the Girt by Sea project and consequently to have a deeper understanding of this concept, elusive to so many, for so long. It has also been a privilege to undertake this unique photographic journey.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our two pilots and especially to Canon Australia for their confidence in us and generous support and sponsorship of the adventure.

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RECEDING TIDES LEAVE BEHIND FAMILIAR SHAPES IN THE MUD NEAR THE MOST SOUTHERN POINT OF THE GULF OF CARPENTARIA

17,42.51S 140,15.31E

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EDEN REEF ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF OFF THE COAST OF COEN IN FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND 260 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

14,04.27S 143,54.89E

TONY HEWITT G.M.PHOTOG., HON. FAIPP, FNZIPP PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony is a Grand Master of Photography of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP). He is also an Honorary Fellow of the AIPP and a Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography.

His career highlights feature over 300 state, national and international awards, and in 2013 Tony was awarded the title of Canon AIPP Australian Professional Photographer of the Year. He has been photographing professionally for over 28 years and has worked alongside his wife, Lynette, in their portrait photography business, Hewitt Studios, for much of that time.

His photographic journey has seen him explore the genres of fine art, portrait, landscape and commercial photography. Along with many collaborative photographic projects, he has presented over 15 solo exhibitions and continues to develop the Tony Hewitt Fine Art brand. Having grown up with a father who is a pilot, it is perhaps not surprising that his preferred perspective for his Fine Art images is the aerial view.

With a passion for people and places, and an instinctive sense of the moment, Tony embodies a unique combination of award-winning photographic vision and simple creativity. He is regularly invited to share his photographic vision and the philosophy behind it as an exhibiting artist or keynote speaker.

Combining versatility, an unquenchable curiosity and a myriad of life experiences, Tony has developed a reputation as an instinctive creative who touches the heart and changes thinking. The Girt by Sea collaboration with fellow photographer Denis Glennon and Canon Australia is the culmination of a personal lifetime ambition. He considers it a privilege to have worked alongside Denis, whose passion, determination and attention to detail were invaluable in the success of such a momentous undertaking. It is an opportunity for which he will remain eternally grateful.

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EARLY SEASON WHALES OFF THE NORTHERN TIP OF FRASER ISLAND

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TYPE OF PLANE

CESSNA 210 A H I GH- P ER FO R M A N CE TO U R I N G A I R C R A F T W I T H M O D I F I C AT I O N S T O I N T E R I O R S E AT I N G A N D R E A R WI N D OWS TO P ER M I T P H OT O G R A P H Y W I T H W I N D O W S OPEN

THE ‘TRACK’ AROUND THE MAP OF AUSTRALIA IS AN ACCURATE RECORD OF THE JOURNEY FLOWN. IT HAS BEEN CREATED FROM THE ACTUAL TRACK LOG RECORDED

BY THE PLANE’S INSTRUMENTATION.

LONGEST LEG FLOWN

1133 KILOMETRES K U N U N U R R A T O FA R AWAY B AY

OWN YOUR OWN PIECE OF AUSTRALIA ONCE I HAD DECIDED TO UNDERTAKE A ROAD TRIP IT BECAME APPARENT THAT THERE WAS ONLY ONE WAY TO CELEBRATE THE MAGNIFICENCE OF OUR COUNTRY - THE OLD ADAGE OF A PICTURE PAINTS A THOUSAND WORDS WAS NEVER MORE TRUE. GIRT BY SEA IS A REMARKABLE CELEBRATION OF THE ENTIRE AUSTRALIAN COASTLINE, SHOT BY TONY HEWITT AND DENIS GLENNON FROM THOUSANDS OF FEET IN A TWINENGINE PLANE. THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A MAGNIFICENT AND UNIQUE PIECE OF AUSTRALIA. IMAGES AND BOOKS CAN BE PURCHASED ON THE WEBSITE.

GIRT BY SEA PROJECT I: @girtbyseaproject E: info@girtbyseaproject girtbyseaproject.com

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EMERALD GREEN PATTERNS OF SAND AND WATER OFF NORTHERN TASMANIA

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A U S T R A L I A’ S N E W L U X U R Y C O A S TA L S A N C T U A R Y O N TA S M A N I A’ S E A S T C O A S T I S S A F F I R E F R E C I N E T, D E L I V E R I N G S O P H I S T I C AT E D A N D I N T I M AT E S T Y L E F O R A T R U LY I N S P I R AT I O N A L E X P E R I E N C E .

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iscretely positioned overlooking The Hazards mountains, Freycinet Peninsula and the pristine waters of Great Oyster Bay, Saffire Freycinet blends mankind and nature with breathtaking beauty.

Featuring 20 luxurious suites, exclusive day spa, restaurant, guest lounge and bar, this new experience is a celebration of the art of service, internal and external wellbeing, local culinary delights, ancient landscapes and abundant wildlife.

All guests can restore their wellbeing in the premium spa facilities and on-site gym.

Soothe the busy mind and refresh the soul with a luxurious treatment in one of Spa Saffire’s three retreat rooms overlooking the inspiring landscape and reflective pools.

Treatments have been designed exclusively for Saffire by LaGaia and Payot, and hot stone massages with granite from the The Hazards mountains are a unique, stand-out feature.

Saffire Freycinet is one of Australia’s most spellbinding natural wonders – luxury accommodation where you can truly relax, restore your wellbeing, indulge and be inspired.

All 20 Saffire suites are luxuriously appointed, featuring the best in design and furnishings and capturing the unique nature of the surrounding coastline. The suites are designed to provide guests with the utmost privacy while taking in the magnificent views of The Hazards, crystal-clear blue waters and white sandy beaches.

The furnishings feature an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary, with locally made timber pieces alongside mid-century classics such as chairs designed by Charles and Ray Eames, and Herman Miller. These suites are designed to relax and rejuvenate, indulge in reading and lazing the days away, and to encourage guests to connect with the environment to heal and restore balance.

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PRIVATE PAVILIONS ARE THE MOST SPACIOUS AND WELL-APPOINTED SUITES, OFFERING THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF LUXURY AND PRIVACY

A L L 2 0 S A F F I R E S U I T E S A R E L U X U R I O U S LY A P P O I N T E D , F E AT U R I N G T H E B E S T I N D E S I G N A N D F U R N I S H I N G S A N D C A P T U R I N G T H E U N I Q U E N AT U R E O F T H E S U R R O U N D I N G COA S TL I N E. TH E SU ITE S ARE DE SIG N ED TO PROVI DE G U E S TS WITH TH E UTMOS T P R I V A C Y W H I L E T A K I N G I N T H E M A G N I F I C E N T V I E W S O F T H E H A Z A R D S , C R Y S T A L- C L E A R B L U E WAT E R S A N D W H I T E S A N DY B E A C H E S .

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Tasmania’s east coast boasts some of the cleanest air and water in the world, and has attracted farmers of the land and sea (including its original Aboriginal inhabitants) for tens of thousands of years. Today, it is home to a thriving combination of aquaculture and agriculture, with fine food and wine produced right on Saffire’s doorstep.

The climate, reminiscent of the south of France, produces stunning, flavourful cool-climate wines such as chardonnay, pinot noir and deeply layered sparkling wines that have won international acclaim.

Plump, succulent oysters are farmed practically on Saffire’s doorstep in the pristine waters of Great Oyster Bay. And nearby, enterprising mussel farmers have created the world’s first commercial mussel hatchery at Spring Bay. Saffire's chefs source the best of Tasmania’s succulent grass-fed beef and lamb, full-flavoured game meats, fresh herbs and spices and seasonal fruit and vegetables.

In Palate restaurant, Iain Todd, the executive chef has ensured innovative dining does not compromise the true flavours of the freshest local produce. From breakfast through to a gourmet degustation or a la carte dinner, guests can customise their dining experiences to suit all tastes and schedules.

Iain, a Tasmanian local, has a reputation for integrity and passion for quality local produce.

He delights in tailoring menus and dining experiences for Saffire's guests. From recreating a favourite dish to campfire dining, to multicourse degustation menus expertly matched with wines, Iain is committed to enhancing every dining experience. He will even pass on his culinary secrets in private cooking classes.

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Palate prides itself on showcasing the best Tasmania has to offer and provides tailor-made experiences to suit all guests. From early morning to late evening, food innovation in the kitchen aims to bring out the true flavours of home-grown produce.

Multi-course degustation menus matched with the outstanding local wines are a speciality, with menus designed around what is fresh out of the water or from the paddock on any given day. If guests prefer, they can consult the chef for a masterful interpretation of a favourite dish made from the finest local ingredients or choose from the à la carte menu.

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SAFFIRE FREYCINET 2352 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay, Tasmania saffire-freycinet.com.au

CURRENTS AND TIDES CONTRIBUTE TO THE EVER CHANGING AUSTRALIAN COAST

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THE TIDAL PLAINS ON THE WESTERN BANKS OF THE GULF OF CARPENTARIA

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A G A I N S T T H E I C O N I C B A C K D R O P O F U L U R U A N D K ATA TJ U TA , L O N G I T U D E 131° IS A LUXURIOUS OA SIS IMMERSED IN RED-RUST DUNES, THE PERFECT P L A C E F O R I N D I G E N O U S T H E R A P I E S A N D A S P I R I T U A L LY G R O U N D I N G A N D R E V I TA L I S I N G C O N N E C T I O N B E T W E E N T R A D I T I O N A L C O U N T R Y A N D T H E VA S T B L U E - D O M E D S K Y C LOA K I N G T H E L A N D S C A P E .

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estled among ancient dunes, Longitude 131° is a gathering of 16 tented pavilions designed to offer both luxurious sanctuary and a profound sense of place. Unparalleled views of Uluru’s changing lights play out from the end of the bed, or on balconies from the warmth of a luxury swag unfurled in the cool night air.

Custom furnishings invite stylish lounging, while works by local Indigenous artists offer inspiration. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, relaxing on outdoor decks and sleeping under a blanket of stars is truly memorable. With views directly to Uluru and across the desert to Kata Tjuta, Longitude 131˚ is Australia’s most celebrated luxury camp.

Dotted among the red-rust dunes of the Central Desert are the tented pavilions, each offering connection with the outback landscape and its heritage as well as a glamorous base from which to explore the incredible Red Centre. Meandering around the property allowed us to experience vibrant Aboriginal artworks alongside relics from the region’s explorers, and to drop by a bar and restaurant offering contemporary Australian dining.

DUNE PAVILION ACCOMMODATION WITH VIEWS TO BOTH WORLD HERITAGE-LISTED WONDERS ULURU AND KATA TJUTA

Gathered as if around a campfire, 15 of the luxury tents at Longitude 131° each offer views to Uluru – from the end of the bed! Our premium Dune Pavilion was the only accommodation with views to both World Heritage-listed wonders Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Each evening, dining at Longitude 131° brought together the finest, freshest produce from around the country all served with a view to Uluru: beef from Tasmania’s Cape Grim, barramundi from Humpty Doo and shellfish from the pure waters of South Australia.

It was difficult not to enjoy daily Aboriginal massage techniques and their local natural healing ingredients like irmangkairmangka which offer a revitalising and relaxing spa experience in Spa Kinara.

Set among the spinifex and the red sand of the Outback, Spa Kinara is a cool, calm retreat reflecting the clever design of a traditional Aboriginal shelter, or wiltja. Kinara means ‘moon’ in Pitjantjatjara, and offers a spiritually grounding, revitalising connection between the traditional country and the vast bluedomed sky that cloaks the landscape.

A powerful bush medicine used by Aboriginal ngangkari, or healers, irmangka-irmangka is also known as Scented Emu Bush and is used in many treatments at Spa Kinara. The general cure-all is made from the bush’s fresh leaves, mixed with olive oil to form a balm. The balm is made by the ladies in the Ngangkari Program run by the local Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Women’s Council.

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The day often starts pre-dawn at Longitude 131°, with tours of Uluru and Kata Tjuta departing as the sun lights the horizon. Best to be prepared for the adventures ahead; premium espresso and fine leaf tea awaits.

A grazing table of fresh-cooked pastries, fruits and cold meats tempts, while an a la carte menu features hot breakfast items from eggs cooked as preferred, smoked salmon served with crispy potato rosti and fluffy blueberry pancakes.

Dinner starts best with sunset drinks in the club-style leather lounges around the bar. A range of premium mixers, wines and craft beer invites a help-yourself vibe, and friendly staff are at hand to mix up a cocktail. Dinner is enjoyed at the Dune House and under the stars at Table 131° on alternating days.

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T H E D AY O F T E N S TA R T S P R E - D A W N AT L O N G I T U D E 1 3 1 ° , W I T H TO U R S O F U L U R U A N D K ATA TJ U TA D E PA R T I N G A S T H E S U N L I G H T S T H E H O R I ZO N .

B E S T TO B E P R EPA R ED FO R T H E A DV EN T U R E S A H E A D ; P R EM I U M E SPRE SSO AN D FIN E L E AF TE A AWAITS .

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For a special occasion, advance bookings can be made for private dining on the Dune Top, where intimate pods offer a window to the Outback after dark.

We found that executive chef Tom Saliba brought a passion for fresh seasonal produce and contemporary Australian cuisine to the menu at Longitude 131°. Working with a philosophy of bringing Australia’s finest premium produce to the Red Centre, Tom uses local bush ingredients and traditional Indigenous techniques to create a unique taste of Australia served with a view to Uluru.

He takes a daily approach to designing each menu, where local and regional ingredients are the stars whilst steering the dining experience across the entire resort.

Tom is a strong believer in the sustainability of food, from both environmental and economic perspectives, and takes a nose-totail and root-to-shoot approach to produce. The result is a truly remote and extraordinary dining experience.

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LONGITUDE 131° Red Centre, Northern Teritory longitude131.com.au

SWISS MODERN

FOR MEALS YOU CAN FEEL PROUD OF Tackle meat with confidence and flair with this agile carving knife. The ultrasharp stainless steel blade glides easily through your food, while the ergonomic synthetic handle feels comfortable to hold. For dishes that look amazing: because the first bite is with the eyes.

FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

TREK WEST

S H E L LY H AW K I N S ’ E Y E S L I G H T U P A N D H E R S M I L E I S A S W I D E A S T H E TA B L E L A N D O N W H I C H H E R FA M I LY ’ S P R O P E R T Y S I T S W H E N E V E R S H E G E T S TO

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S H O W C A S E T H I S PA R T O F AU S T R A L I A TO OT H E R W O M E N W H O ’ V E T R AV E L L E D TH OUSAN DS O F KI LOM E TRE S TO S WITCH O FF FROM TH EI R B USY L IV E S .

his is the third year in which Shelly has welcomed hiking guests on Trek West tours to Herbertvale, a remote North West Queensland property which borders the Northern Territory on one side and Lawn Hill (Boodjamulla) National Park on the other.

When Clint’s parents bought Herbertvale 21 years ago, the couple moved across the border to start the hard work of building the infrastructure needed to successfully build the cattle breeding property it is today. Together they’ve survived years when droughts, floods and bushfires have wreaked havoc on their hard work.

As the crow, or kite bird, flies it’s just 200km to the Gulf of Carpentaria from the top fence line. It really doesn’t get more remote than this. There’s no ducking down the road to grab a loaf of bread. ‘Town’ – Mt Isa – is four hours away, most of that on a dirt road that is impassable in the wet season.

Like many women working on the land, Shelly’s grit has been built on the back of the resilience that comes with coping with continuous runs of dry seasons and droughts. Surviving requires putting emotions aside to make tough decisions to get you through.

Like many women working on the land, the mum of two teenage boys wouldn’t have it any other way. She arrived in the north 27 years ago, working on Brunette Downs, a Northern Territory property, as a jillaroo.

The love of the land may have lured Shelly to station life (she grew up on a property in the Western Darling Downs), but it was while meeting and falling in love with her now-husband Clint Hawkins at Brunette that the deal was sealed.

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If the rain doesn’t come by certain dates, the cattle have to be moved or sold. Staying positive and staying focused on looking after the land for future generations is key.

She also understands what it’s been like for so many parents around Australia during lockdown periods in 2020 where parents have become teaching assistants to their kids. That’s just the way of life in remote parts of Australia. Shelly taught their boys, Lachie and Ben, via Mt Isa School of the Air.

The boys grew up knowing that they’d be heading off to boarding school in Toowoomba for high school. Knowing that, however, doesn’t make it any less emotional for the boys or Shelly.

What did open up for Shelly when the boys went off to boarding school was the Trek West tourism opportunity she could not have imagined. Here was someone who’d never hiked, and had only ridden horses or driven cars across the property.

A conversation with her ‘neighbour’ Danielle, who lives one-and-a-half hours away over the fence, led to Shelly doing her first ever hike at Herbertvale. It was a bit rough and ready and far from the glamping that has become Trek West, but it opened Shelly’s eyes wider to the beauty of the landscape, the plant species and birdlife.

The friends loved the challenge of what they did together, but it got Shelly thinking about how the experience could be made more comfortable and how she could share her favourite part of the world with others.

And share she has.

More than 200 people have enjoyed the Trek West experience since it began in 2017.

Hikes run during the dry season between May and August each year.

Shelly and team member Tilly Merritt love showing off their remote corner of Australia but they especially love watching guests arrive and decompress from the demands of their busy lives. The camp sites at the northern end of Herbertvale are off the grid and smartphones are only of use for taking photos.

When COVID hit, Shelly had to cancel more than half of the booked treks. She had only two groups (instead of the usual 10).

And in those two groups, numbers were down due to border closures. That’s a lot of financial pressure on a new business trying to cope without the expected income.

What does get Shelly through any challenge is her positive outlook. And with 75 per cent of 2021’s treks fully booked, more women will have the opportunity to experience firsthand that positivity and her love affair with the land.

TREK WEST trekwesthiking.com.au

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F lying High IN A COVID WORLD

WORDS BY

:

PHIL HARTE

I T WA S M A RCH 1, 2020 W H EN I WA S P R EPA R I N G FOR MY WEEK OF EVENTS COVERING OUR I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N ’ S D AY C E L E B R AT I O N S I N SYDNEY AND MELBOURNE.

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ittle did I know of the devastation brewing only days away, with several celebrations confirmed, portrait gallery viewings, long-table spectaculars in two cities and a World Cup Women’s cricket 20/20 final, not to mention a concert finale with Katie Perry, we embarked on what was to become the last major events staged in Australia.

Having successfully delivered the above I was boarding my Qatar Airlines flight from Sydney to Doha with a hectic couple of weeks on the road including Montreal, Iceland, Greenland, Paris, London and finally to return home having conquered all in front of me.

Well as we all know now, things didn’t quite turn out as we had expected. If not for the resistance of Qatar Airways I would have been seriously stranded not unlike thousands of Aussies abroad.

As the aviation world capitulated, it was our Oneworld partners that we could rely on - BA from Montreal to London; Qatar to the rescue from London back to Sydney; and Qantas home to the sunny Gold Coast.

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But as the global airline sector shrank, it was Qatar that stayed the path, providing a way home for the many thousands of Aussies abroad and now, as your writer sits here six months on, it is Qatar that we are still relying on.

So we have rebooked our Iceland-Greenland-Paris trip and it will be in the amazing Qsuites and those sensational double beds.

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was named World’s Best Airline by the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed by international air transport rating organisation Skytrax. It was also named Best Airline in the Middle East, World’s Best Business Class and Best Business Class Seat, in recognition of its ground-breaking business class experience, Qsuite. Qatar Airways is the only airline to have been awarded the coveted Skytrax Airline of the Year title, which is recognised as the pinnacle of excellence in the airline industry, five times.

Qsuite, a patented Qatar Airways product, features the industry’s first-ever double bed in business class, as well as privacy panels that stow away, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room, a first of its kind in the industry.

Qatar Airways was the first Gulf carrier to join global airline alliance Oneworld, enabling its passengers to benefit from more than 1,000 airports in more than 160 countries, with 14,250 daily departures.

Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ in-flight entertainment system, offers passengers up to 4,000 entertainment options from the latest blockbuster movies, TV box sets, music, games and much more. Passengers flying on Qatar Airways flights served by its B787, B777, A350, A380, A319 and select A320 and A330 aircraft can also stay in touch with their friends and family around the world by using the award-winning airline’s on-board Wi-Fi and GSM service.

Qatar Airways proudly supports a range of exciting international and local initiatives dedicated to enriching the global community that it serves.

Qatar Airways, the official FIFA partner, is the official sponsor of many top-level sporting events, including the FIFA 2022 World Cup, reflecting the values of sports as a means of bringing people together, something at the core of the airline’s own brand message - Going Places Together.

QATAR AIRWAYS qatarairways.com

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LEXICON CARRY-ON

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FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

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T O

rising T H E

C H A L L E N G E

E L L I E C O L E I S A N A U S T R A L I A N PA R A LY M P I C S W I M M E R A N D W H E E L C H A I R B A S K E T B A L L P L AY E R W H O Q U I C K LY TO O K TO T H E W AT E R D U R I N G R E H A B A F T E R LO S I N G H E R L E G TO C A N C E R A S A T H R E E -Y E A R - O L D . E L L I E PERSONIFIES THE FIGHTING SPIRT FOUND IN ALL TRUE HEROES.

PHOTO :

Cate Campbell

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Everyone has t heir own story, t heir own challenges, t heir own heart breaks and t hey have overcome it. I ts hard to feel sad or low when I am constant ly surrounded by people who have overcome challenges I can’t even imagine.

W H AT D O E S T H E W O R D C O M M U N I T Y M E A N TO YO U ?

Community really is everything. It is what has allowed humans to become the dominant species.

Our ability to develop and foster relationships is at the very core of what it means to be human.

Community has special meaning to me because I belong to the Paralympic community. This is such a wonderful group to be a part of. Everyone has their own story, their own challenges, their own heartbreaks and they have overcome it. It’s hard to feel sad or low when I am constantly surrounded by people who have overcome challenges I can’t even imagine. The postponement of the Paralympics because of COVID-19 was incredibly tough, but I was able to draw on the support from my fellow Paralympians to help me get through it. We have overcome so many obstacles just to be able to compete in the Paralympics – we can definitely overcome this.

W H AT H AV E YO U L E A R N T A B O U T YO U R S E L F T H R O U G H T H I S O R D E A L ?

I have learned to be grateful for the things I already have in my life. We live in a world that is obsessed with growth – with having more and more and more. It is never enough. And yet, when Australia went into lockdown, suddenly we had to stop. We couldn’t go looking for the best coffee or a shiny new TV. I had to make my own coffee and be content with my current TV. There was something relieving in stepping back from the capitalist driven rat race we were all living in. I learned to appreciate the small things in life – and I got really good at making coffee!

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U T H R O U G H ?

I have always had a fighting spirit, right from when I was a little girl. When I was three, I lost my leg to cancer, but I have never let that slow me down. If someone tells me I can’t do something, then I have to do it, whether that’s rock climbing, hiking or becoming a professional athlete. That same fighting spirit has taken me to three Paralympic Games and it will help me get to a fourth next year. I have been able to face all the challenges COVID has thrown me with the same fighting spirit that was instilled in that small, scared, three-year-old girl lying in a hospital bed waiting for the doctors to take her leg off.

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cate c a m p b e l l

Meet wit h Triumph and Disaster, and treat t hose two imposters just t he same.

R U D Y A R D

PHOTO :

Phil Harte

K I P L I N G

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T H E C H A L L E N G E S H AV E B E E N C O N S TA N T - H O W H AV E YO U D E A LT W I T H T H E M P E R S O N A L LY ?

Everyone has had a rough 2020, that goes without saying. Everyone has their own story of how COVID-19 has impacted their lives.

Some have been more impacted than others. This virus has changed the world around us in profound ways, and one of those ways that impacted me most was the postponement of the Olympic Games and the nationwide lockdown which meant I lost all access to all training facilities for eight weeks. It has been a mental and physical battle to get back to peak fitness. However, through it all, through the ups, the downs, the mood swings, the tears and the many, many zoom calls, I am acutely aware that there are people who have it so much worse than me.

In some ways, this has helped get me through it. There are Australians who lost loved ones in the deadly fires, whose homes were destroyed in the floods and whose livelihoods have been decimated by COVID. When I think of these people, I am reminded to be grateful for the things I have in my life, for the health of my friends and family, for the roof over my head and for renewed access to all my usual training facilities. When it comes to the Tokyo Olympics, I will be standing behind those starting blocks fuelled by the courage of my fellow Australians.

H OW WO U L D YO U D E SCR I B E T H E AUS SI E SPIRIT?

Australia was built by the battlers, by the underdogs, by relentless hard work and mateship. It’s one of the reasons I am so proud to call myself Australian. I have inherited this fighting spirit, this tenacious will and this fierce loyalty. Whenever I pull on a green and gold tracksuit, I feel a surge of pride at being able to represent this great country.

Australians don’t complain when disaster hits – and in 2020 it threw everything at us with bushfires, floods, and a global pandemic. Australians have this ability to band together and work through the tough times. The road to recovery will be long and hard, but we will get through it together – just like we have all the other times before.

There is always somet hing you can do. Always. Sometimes you have to dig a lit t le deeper, but t here are always new opportunities to be uncovered.

W H AT WA S I T I N YO U T H AT G OT YO U THROUGH?

Life in elite sport has taught me many valuable lessons. One of the most important is being able to turn obstacles into opportunities.

Everyone faces challenges in their life – it’s just a fact. But those who can move on from the challenges, or better yet grow from them, are the ones that make it to the top.

I have faced many setbacks in my career – illness, injury, losses – but every time I have run into a roadblock, I have managed to come out of it better. I look at the challenge and ask: “What are you going to teach me? What skills am I going to have to develop to get past you? And how can I take those skills and apply them to the rest of my life?”

Well, this year, I have learned to be patient. I have learned to be kind. I have learned to appreciate the people I have in my life in a new way. During lockdown, when I couldn’t access my physical training facilities, I turned to mental training. When I couldn’t work on my strength, I worked on my flexibility. There is always something you can do. Always. Sometimes you have to dig a little deeper, but there are always new opportunities to be uncovered.

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Lauren

PARKER L A U R E N PA R K E R I S A N E L I T E PA R A -T R I AT H L E T E . S H E H A S B E E N A N E L I T E AT H L E T E M O S T O F H E R L I F E H AV I N G A S W I M M I N G A N D S U R F L I F E S AV I N G B A C K G R O U N D . O N A P R I L 1 8 , 2 0 1 7, L A U R E N ’ S L I F E C O M P L E T E LY C H A N G E D I N A S P L I T S E C O N D W H E N S H E W A S I N V O LV E D I N A N A C C I D E N T W H I L E O N H E R F I N A L T R A I N I N G R I D E B E F O R E T H E R A C E . W I T H O N LY T W O M I N U T E S TO GO ON TH IS RI DE, B OTH T YRE S E XPLODED AN D SH E WA S TH ROWN I NTO A G UARDR AI L . TH E ACCIDENT LEF T HER WITH A NUMBER OF SERIOUS INJURIES INCLUDING A PUNC TURED LUNG , B R O K E N S C A P U L A , B R O K E N R I B S , F R A C T U R E D P E LV I S , B R O K E N T 1 1 / 1 2 V E R T E B R A E A N D S P I N A L C O R D D A M A G E L E AV I N G H E R I N S TA N T LY PA R A LY Z E D F R O M T H E WA I S T D O W N . T H E N E W S T H AT S H E W O U L D N E V E R WA L K AG A I N A N D W O U L D H AV E TO S P E N D T H E R E S T O F H E R L I F E I N A WH EELCHAI R . L AU REN IS R AN KED WORL D CHA M PION AN D N U M B ER ON E L E ADI NG I NTO TH E 2021 TO K YO PA R A LY M P I C S . H E R G O A L I S TO B R I N G H O M E T H AT G O L D M E D A L F O R A U S T R A L I A .

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T H E COV I D -19 PA N D E M I C H A S H A D A N D W I L L CO N T I N U E TO H AV E A V E RY C O N S I D E R A B L E E F F E C T O N M E A S A N AT H L E T E B OT H O N A M E N TA L A N D P H Y S I C A L L E V E L . T H E R E H A S B E E N A G R E AT D E A L O F U N P R E D I C TA B I L I T Y D U R I N G T H I S T I M E WIT H A L L O F MY SP O RT I N G E V EN TS C A N CEL L ED O R P OS T P O N ED A N D T H E TO K YO P A R A L Y M P I C S P O S T P O N E D T O 2 0 2 1 .

I

was in Florida for a couple of weeks to compete in a race in Sarasota when the COVID-19 crisis was unfolding. Unfortunately, the race was cancelled. It was very disappointing as the journey to get there and the financial cost involved was quite excessive. I got one of the last flights home and was forced into self-isolation for 14 days. COVID-19 affected my training because all of the pools were closed for a couple of months and I wasn’t able to complete any swimming training. This was very hard mentally Initially when I heard the Tokyo Paralympics were postponed, I instantly thought of all the hard work that had been put into being both race and mind ready. I was confident and was on track with my training. The lead-up to Tokyo ended abruptly and I felt like all of the hard work I put in had been wasted for this year.

I trained every day to become the best and I had prepared my body physically and mentally to have my best chances of success at Tokyo 2020.

I was forced to quickly adapt to the situation and not focus on what I couldn’t control. Rather, I changed my mindset and shifted my goals for 2021. My thought process was that I will be fitter, better, stronger and faster for Tokyo in 2021. What I have been through in the last few years and what I have had to deal with has given me the ability to adapt and move forward no matter what.

This year I had hoped to create history by racing in Tokyo in the Para-Triathlon, bringing home the gold medal, and then racing the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, straight after the Paralympics. Although these are now my goals for 2021, I have needed to refocus for another year of hard work.

I was halfway through the qualification period for Tokyo when my preparation came to a standstill and all of the races on the schedule were cancelled. Again, I had to focus on what I could do to stay strong and complete my training while in isolation. I have done most of my sessions in my home garage on the bike and race chair.

The other main contributing factor has been financial stress.

Sponsors asked if they could hold off on sponsorship payments until after COVID-19 which hasn’t helped the situation. Elite athletes survive on sponsorships but everyone, including businesses, are under understandable stress at the moment.

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Although there have been many negatives, I have chosen to create a lot of positives during COVID-19. Once the shutdown measures were lifted, my local council went above and beyond to open the pools and give me a training lane. Once back in the water, I felt free and had better mental clarity and physical wellbeing.

As the pandemic has grounded everyone it has given me a longer period at home in which to concentrate on a greater training block which has been quite flexible. Usually I would be travelling around the country and overseas to races, so I found I could just enjoy the training process and fall in love with what I’m doing again. It has given me the opportunity to set up a training hub in my garage and be able to connect with other triathletes around the world.

This has helped tremendously with my mental health. During this period, I have had the best opportunity to focus on my physical weaknesses in training and get those little things right so that I can be the best prepared for when racing starts back up again.

As mental health has become quite prominent in athletes and the community generally, I found that doing talks and podcasts such as What’s Right Within and Rolling Conversations helped me cope, while at the same time helping others. I am also an advocate for RUOK Day which reminds people that having conversations about their mental health actually is a sign of strength, not weakness. The RUOK mission is to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life, especially in this crisis.

With the Paralympics another year away, I have created an opportunity to give myself another challenge. I’m trying to qualify for the Para-handcycling. I have begun the process by competing in some trials, so hopefully with a lot of hard work I gain selection on the Australian Para-cycling team.

The adjustment of training at home has also actually given me time to put everything into perspective and to reflect on the last three years and what I’ve achieved and what I’ve had to overcome. This has given me extra motivation to become a stronger athlete.

I aim to stay positive every day and work with what I’ve got.

I am sure that I will be better, fitter, stronger and faster for Tokyo 2021.

I aim to stay positive every day and work wit h what I’ve got.

I am sure t hat I will be bet ter, fit ter, stronger and faster for Tokyo 2021.

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VX TOURING

FREEDOM TO SWITCH-UP YOUR DAY We believe in your freedom to choose how you roll. From nailing airport swivellings to navigating the great outdoors, switch it up and get going.

FROM THE MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE™ ESTABLISHED 1884

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SEAN C O N N o L l Y

WORDS BY

:

PHIL HARTE

I F TH ERE WA S TO B E A CU L I NARY HAL L O F FA M E , S E A N C O N N O L LY W O U L D N O DOUBT BE FRONT AND CENTRE.

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S

ome 18 months ago, I had the pleasure of working with Sean Connolly at my first long table soirée held at the Hyatt Regency Gallery, with a guest list including 50 of the most discerning culinary palates in the country.

Our collaboration was to become the beginning of a great friendship as we created a six-course spectacular, cooking with tens of thousands of dollars from the premium champagne and cognac cellars enjoyed by the 50 lucky diners. For you foodies out there, cooking with a 2008 Dom Perignon (poached Sydney rock oysters) and a 2006 vintage Moet Rose (coq au vin) with fist-size truffle and the following courses boasting the best of Krug and Veuve Clicquot, we completed the spectacular offering with a dessert including a bottle of only the best Hennessy XXO, devoured for a deconstructed hot fudge sundae.

This lunch is still talked about today thanks to the team at the Hyatt Regency Sydney and the creativity of chef Connolly. Sean Connolly is one of Australia's and New Zealand's most respected and well-recognised chefs, with restaurants in Auckland, Adelaide, Sydney and Byron Bay. From an unpaid teenage apprenticeship at the Hilton in Leeds, the Yorkshire-born Connolly has travelled far, including stints cooking on the QEII and in high-profile restaurants in Sydney, Auckland and Adelaide.

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He also has a wealth of global experience as a restaurant consultant. Underpinning all his work is a passion for wonderful produce and a love of simple, honest food.

Regardless of whether he’s creating a Parisian-style brasserie in Adelaide or a New York-style steakhouse in Auckland, Connolly is always focused on using the best local produce he can get his hands on, and letting the natural flavours shine.

THE BON PAVILION: PETUNA OCEAN TROUT, AVOCADO, PICKLED GINGER, CUCUMBER, SEAWEED SALAD, MISO DRESSING

Connolly first gained critical acclaim at Astral at The Star in Sydney, where he was in sole creative charge of the award-winning fine diner. During his time at Astral, he was named Chef of the Year in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide.

When bestowing the award, the editors wrote: “The Chef of the Year title is bestowed for various reasons. These include career achievement, staying power, potential for greater things and sheer, bloody talent. Sean Connolly ticks all those boxes. Twelve years at Astral has to be triple that in restaurant years, but there’s a sense of more to come.

Blessed with sound technique, plenty of wit and imagination and the intelligence not to try too hard with prime ingredients.”

Connolly left The Star to pursue international opportunities and nurture his burgeoning television career.

In New Zealand, he opened The Grill by Sean Connolly at SkyCity in Auckland, which went on to receive multiple awards including Cuisine magazine’s Best New Restaurant and Restaurant of the Year in 2012.

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The Grill’s creation, with its $4 million budget and 100-day deadline, was the subject of a popular multi-episode television documentary, Under the Grill, which saw Connolly in a race against the clock to open on time, and made him a New Zealand household name.

Connolly was also the culinary mastermind behind the rustic Italian eatery Gusto at the Grand at SkyCity in Auckland, Sean’s Kitchen at Adelaide’s SkyCity, and The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room in Sydney’s CBD and he also leads the kitchen at Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. Sean Connolly is well known to television audiences in Australia and New Zealand and increasingly to audiences throughout South-East Asia and further afield. His popular television series My Family Feast, which celebrates the interaction of food, family and diverse cultures, is screened in Australia on SBS. The families he visits in each episode are often communities of migrants who are focused on retaining their traditional culture as they learn to live in and understand their new environment.

Connolly’s other television credits include Sean’s Kitchen which showcases the outstanding South Australian produce that features so prominently on his eponymous restaurant’s menu in Adelaide, and On the Grill, which explores amazing produce and the technique required when cooking with flame.

All television series have been featured widely throughout Australia, New Zealand and sold into Europe and Asia, among other territories.

In the heart of heritage Sydney, on the site of the old Brooklyn Hotel, the Morrison Bar & Oyster Room has breathed new life into an old city pub. With its multiple bars and dining spaces there’s something for everyone and, not surprisingly, Australia’s finest oysters shucked to order are a major drawcard.

Connolly has also created a menu of delicious ‘finger and fork food, such as crab and lettuce tacos, southern fried chicken lollipops, and saltimbocca prawns, which are perfect bar snacks to soak up the booze.

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In t he heart of heritage Sydney, on t he site of t he old Brooklyn Hotel, t he Morrison Bar and Oyster Room has breat hed new life into an old city pub.

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SEAN CONNOLLY QT Hotels Auckland NZ The Wild Flower Bar & Dining Killcare The Bon Pavilion Gosford Steak & Co by Sean Connolly West HQ The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room Sydney The Balcony Bar and Oyster Co Byron Bay Sean’s Kitchen Adelaide seanconnolly.com.au

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His signature style - seasonal produce, cooked on the bone and in the shell wherever possible – shines in the abundant main courses, from duck fat fish and chips to meat cooked over the coals, as well as feasting dishes, such as free-range lamb shoulder or whole baked fish, designed to be shared.

Overlooking the eclectic streets of the town centre and just a towel shake from Main Beach, Balcony Bar evokes the hippy-cumsurf culture for which Byron Bay is famous.

Breakfast is hugely popular here – think Turkish eggs and house toasted granola while the lunch and dinner menu boasts the simple, honest food for which Connolly is famous.

The produce, especially seafood, is sustainable and locally sourced. Oysters are shucked to order while local mud crabs are served either whole with mayo or with a spicy sweet and sour chilli sauce.

Sean is all about the produce – the finest meats, seafood and smallgoods from South Australian producers, including Richard Gunner’s Fine Meats, Saskia Beer’s Barossa Farm Produce, and Hiramasa Kingfish from Port Lincoln.

The ingredients are treated with respect and cooked with the utmost care, with southern king crab and rock lobster among the many highlights.

Sean’s most recent celebrations include Bells resort, The Wild Flower Bar & Dining at Killcare, and Gosford’s number one eatery, Bon Pavilion, with a soon to open QT Auckland hotel.

The one thing I find the most endearing element at Sean’s eateries is the ease with which you can dine, from creative yet thoughtful menus and, most importantly, the calm and relaxed culture of each and every eatery.

My pick of the bunch, Bells resort, is world class inclusive of the accommodation spa and the spectacular offering at Wild Flower, one hour from Sydney on the Central Coast - and now the borders have opened up to South Australia, Sean’s kitchen in Adelaide is a must.

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STANLEY

STANLEY RESTAURANT EXECUTIVE CHEF, LOUIS TIKARAM

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PHIL HARTE

B EI NG AN A SIAN CU ISI N E TR AG IC , I WA S TH RI L L ED TO B E I NVITED TO TH E

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S TA N L E Y R E S TA U R A N T AT T H E H O WA R D S M I T H W H A R V E S P R E C I N C T H I D D E N A W AY U N D E R T H E S TO R Y B R I D G E O N T H E B R I S B A N E R I V E R .

aving arrived fresh from our road trip throughout the Queensland Outback, we couldn’t wait to meet hotshot chef Louis Tikaram and dig into his remarkable Cantonese menu.

The star dish here is the Cantonese-style roasted duck. It’s a four-day process, which involves lengthy brining, drying and roasting. It’s this kind of precision that defines Stanley.

From the careful preparation of local produce to the multiple, specific kitchen spaces to the interior design by Fellow Interiors, which has decked out the heritage-listed former water police headquarters in parquetry, luscious fabrics, water-colour murals and lanterns. It’s a venue-wide exercise in mise en place.

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At the centre of it all is head chef Louis Tikaram, who returned to Australia for the gig after five years heading up EP & LP in West Hollywood. Tikaram helped open that buzzy eatery at a time when Los Angeles’s food scene was hitting high gear. There’s an element of history repeating itself with Stanley and Brisbane.

Tikaram and Howard Smith Wharves executive chef Patrick Friesen wrote Stanley’s menu around showcasing local produce. There’s steamed Hervey Bay scallops with vermicelli and XO sauce, wok-fried Glacier 51 toothfish with Chinese celery, cloud fungi and supreme sauce. Or Tikaram’s favourites: a painted tropical crayfish lo mein, and line-caught red emperor (when it’s available) steamed with ginger, shallot and white soy.

Beyond the duck there’s a generous selection of barbequed meat and bird alongside dim sum, a stack of noodle dishes, and mud crab or Moreton Bay bug live from the tank.

Arriving early was the key as the entire precinct became a dining mecca and from 12.30pm there wasn’t a chair to be had, and that wasn’t just at Stanley’s but throughout all the dining outlets.

Stanley Restaurant is without doubt the best AsianCantonese restaurant in Brisbane and you can bet Louis will be in the kitchen every time you’re there.

STANLEY 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City, Queensland stanleyrestaurant.com.au

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eing a proud New South Welshman boasting our iconic beaches, harbour and iconic Opera house we believe that the icing on the cake is the famed Sydney Harbour bridge and that nothing could ever rival it. Well I’m here to announce to all those doubters that nestled under Brisbane’s Story bridge is arguably one of Australia’s most impressive hospitality precincts, Howard Smith Wharves.

A R G U A B LY O N E O F A U S T R A L I A’ S M O S T I M P R E S S I V E H O S P I TA L I T Y P R E C I N C T S

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Brisbane’s newest lifestyle and entertainment destination, this riverside entertainment destination is located beneath the iconic Story Bridge, and celebrates the best of Brisbane.

Originally constructed in the 1930s, it brings life back to a historic space, with a waterfront entertainment area that provides the perfect setting to eat, drink, play and stay.

Expect to experience the best of what Brisbane has to offer right on the Brisbane River! We sampled locallybrewed schooners at Felons Brewing Co. Meeting up with a few friends, we relaxed on the lawn with take-away fish and chips, enjoyed a few spritzers while watching the sunset.

W E S A M P L E D L O C A L LY- B R E W E D S C H O O N E R S AT F E L O N S B R E W I N G C O . M E E T I N G U P W I T H A FE W FRIEN DS , WE REL A XED ON TH E L AWN WITH TA K E - A W AY F I S H A N D C H I P S , E N J OY E D A F E W S P R I T Z ’ S W H I L E WATC H I N G T H E S U N S E T.

Mr Percival’s , GRECA Greek taverna and ARC Dining and Wine Bar all three are rising stars and acclaimed chefs at their respective helms.

Stanley’s restaurant philosophy is centred around great food, friends, fishermen and farmers. Inspired by head chef Louis Tikaram’s travels across the globe and grounded by his local roots, Stanley’s menu showcases some of the best seafood, meat, vegetables and fruit in the world.

Stanley’s ethos combines the best produce, mostly sourced locally, supporting our Australian industry with traditional Cantonese flavours.

Tikaram’s fresh perspective and mindset of venturing outside the box adds to the unique experience of Stanley.

HSW has created a community around food, so you can dine and drink just metres from the Brisbane River and be awed by the spellbinding views.

A boutique Art Series Hotel, The Fantauzzo provides stylish and comfortable accommodation at Howard Smith Wharves with 166 suites.

This community precinct provides the perfect platform and inspiring location for exhibitions, meetings, conferences, and special events.

The natural beauty of its surrounding elements – the cliffs, heritage-listed buildings and riverfront location – create a refreshing oasis for all types of events just moments from the bustling city centre.

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HOWARD SMITH WHARVES VISIONARY ADAM FLASKAS

Visionary Adam Flaskas was selected by Brisbane City Council to undertake the revitalisation of Howard Smith Wharves, with a history of refurbishing heritage-listed and derelict buildings into highprofile, unique operations, as well as creating and operating hospitality, tourism and event spaces.

HSW Nominees plans to own and operate the precinct for the long term. With a three-tiered approach of restoration, design, and visitor education, they are bringing the site’s maritime past into the present.

There vision is to transform this underutilised 3.4-hectare Brisbane CBD site and redefine event, tourism, leisure, and food experiences in the vibrant river city.

Originally constructed in the 1930s, the Howard Smith Wharves project was initiated by the Queensland Government to provide locals with relief work during the Great Depression.

These astonishing spaces were largely abandoned since the 60s, but are now heritage listed. They’re a rare surviving example of early city infrastructure, with offices, sheds, and wharfage still intact.

Nestled at the bend of the Brisbane River, beneath the Story Bridge and the sheer face of riverside cliffs, this site has now been transformed into an agenda-setting entertainment and lifestyle precinct surrounding the heritage-listed buildings.

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C ARVED I NTO TH E CL I FF U N DER S TORY B RI DG E, WITH AN IMPRESSIVE PRESENCE, OVERLOOKING THE NEW HOWARD SM ITH WHARVE S P R E C I N C T, T H E FA N TA U Z ZO TA K E S I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M ACCL AIMED AUSTR ALIAN PA I N T E R V I N C E N T FA N TA U Z ZO .

More than 80 per cent of the site has been allocated as public space, ensuring a community playground for all of Brisbane to enjoy. Cycle or walk through 500 metres of river’s edge, or stop and enjoy the abundant green spaces, urban agriculture, dynamic cliff lighting, and theatre-like public seating - a place for the whole community to eat, drink, play and stay.

Carved into the cliff under Story Bridge, with an impressive presence overlooking the new Howard Smith Wharves precinct, The Fantauzzo takes inspiration from acclaimed Australian painter Vincent Fantauzzo. This luxury hotel features 166 suites, with custom contemporary furnishings, three original artworks and 500 giclee prints of Fantauzzo’s most recognised works. A seamless 330 | C L A S S I C M A G A Z I N E

combination of art, design and functionality, the hotel is a powerful representation of contemporary creativity, with connected and inspiring spaces for guests to discover.

The six-storey hotel also offers four distinct food and beverage outlets as well as an impressive rooftop pool boasting spectacular views of the Brisbane River and CBD. There is a bar, gym and three conference rooms, fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology.

So this bespoke entertainment mecca is a true shinning light in Queensland’s hospitality marketplace leaving nothing to chance and ensuring it seduces not only the local foodies but the international and interstate meetings clientele.

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mamasan b r o a d b e a c h

H AV I N G L I V E D O N T H E G O L D COA S T F O R S O M E 2 0 Y E A R S O F F A N D O N , I H AV E S E E N M A N Y W O U L D - B E R E S TA U R AT E U R S C O M E A N D G O A L L W I T H T H E B E L I E F T H AT B E C A U S E T H E Y H AV E T R AV E L L E D TO E U R O P E O R U P T H R O U G H O U T A S I A , T H E Y N E W W H AT T H E H E L L T H E Y W E R E D O I N G A N D T H AT T H I S L I T T L E H O L I D AY M A D E T H E M A N E X P E R T.

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TONIGHT WE DINED ON: HIRAMASA KINGFISH SASHIMI WITH PICKLED KOHLRABI, GREEN APPLE, COCONUT, CITRUS PEARLS + GREEN NAM JIM DRESSING OCEAN TROUT TARTARE PETUNA OCEAN TROUT WITH TANGY PONZU, WASABI MAYO, TOBIKO, CHIVES + GOW GEE CHIPS PASSIONFRUIT TART WITH MANGO SORBET, WHITE CHOCOLATE DOME + FIG

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Wit h a focus on t he share food philosophy, encompassing small intimate bites to banquet style dining, t he flavours are striking and highligh ted furt her when combined wit h t he zesty, Asian inspired cocktail list alongside international beers, wines, spirits and sake.

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s we know, only the cream rises to the top when the economy waivers and the true professionals ultimately prevail.

Mamasan Kitchen + Bar is one of the few that have not only risen to the task but is without doubt one of the best restaurant experiences in Queensland. Nestled on the ground floor under the Oracle building at Broadbeach, on arrival you will be impressed by the attention to detail. Lined with relics procured from across South East Asia, the lights are soft with hues of red as you enter through the concrete and cherry-blossom-peppered doorway. Tantalising oriental aromas dance throughout the restaurant. A menu that follows the perfect blend of tradition and modern cuisine from South East Asia, combined with a zesty cocktail list, beckons you to piece together the secret ingredients of the Gold Coast’s hottest dining experience.

Mamasan Kitchen + Bar offers the perfect blend of traditional and modern cuisine from renowned chef Ray Choi. Flavours are authentic, combined with precision and synergy to complement each other, staying true to the unique flavours of South East Asian culture. With a focus on the share food philosophy, encompassing small intimate bites, to banquet-style dining, the flavours are striking and highlighted further when combined with the zesty, Asian-inspired cocktail list alongside international beers, wines, spirits and sake. My absolute favourite is the crab ravioli. I always order a double portion.

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TONIGHT WE DINED ON: PORK BAO CHINESE STEAMED BUN WITH TWICE COOKED PORK BELLY, PICKLED CUCUMBER, PEANUT, SRIRACHA CHILLI MAYO, HOISIN SAUCE + CORIANDER LEMONGRASS + GINGER CHEESECAKE WITH BAILEYS PASTRY CREAM, MANGO JELLY, RASPBERRY GEL + CRISPY WONTON SHARDS

MAMASAN KITCHEN BAR 3 Oracle Blvd, Broadbeach, Queensland mamasanbroadbeach.com.au

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Trina Smith T R I N A S M I T H ’ S C A R E E R S TA R T E D I N F I N A N C E A N D L E D TO F E R M E N TAT I O N W I T H A RO L E A S T H E G RO U P W H I T E A N D SPA R K L I N G W I N EM A K ER FO R P ER N O D R I C A R D W I N E M A K ER S , W H I C H P R O D U C E S AU S T R A L I A’ S TO P -S EL L I N G B OT T L ED W I N E B R A N D

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J A C O B ’ S C R E E K . T R I N A H A S A L W AY S B E L I E V E D I N F O L L O W I N G H E R H E A R T – A G U T I N S T I N C T S H E H A S A P P L I E D B OT H AT W O R K A N D I N H E R P E R S O N A L L I F E .

fter initially studying accounting at university and doing a wine appreciation course on the side with a friend, Trina Smith found her passion for wine which saw her change direction and apply for an oenology degree at the University of Adelaide.

After completing her degree, she travelled the world working across global vintages and learning firsthand about winemaking techniques, opening her eyes and mind to a myriad of varietals and approaches to the craft of wine.

Her first role at Brown Brothers Australia was instrumental in cementing her passion for sparkling. Thanks to a fantastic mentor, Trina was driven to explore the wonderful world of bubbles, working across various roles in the Australian wine industry and landing her current role as group white and sparkling winemaker for Pernod Ricard Winemakers in 2016.

Fast forward to 2020, the year that has presented many challenges, closed some doors and opened many others. Trina doesn’t hesitate to admit that ‘it has been an interesting year!’

Putting priority and focus on what she could personally control and getting guidance from those around her, be it family, friends or colleagues enabled her to ‘have a positive mindset to help deal with the day-to-day hurdles, changes and find a new sense

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of empowerment’. “Drought, fire, frost and a pandemic forced me to have a new focus on vintage, along with the rest of our winemaking team and business, to ensure that we were working together in the best way possible to create wines that are true to our brands and what consumers know and trust, the quality and flavour profiles, as well as some exciting new innovations including my current favourite drop, JACOB, our newest contemporary Australian sparkling wine,” she says.

Trina believes finding a new appreciation for balance, routine and different approaches to things, from staying active to having virtual drinks with friends to working from home, has helped her ‘maintain a sense of normal’ and made her more productive.

Ongoing resilience and friendship, which Trina believes represents the Aussie spirit, also helped her through many highs and lows.

So have the people she surrounds herself with - family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues. It’s her ‘community’.

A country girl at heart, she grew up on a wheat and sheep farm in Quorn, a small town in the Flinders Ranges. Her connection to the land and work ethic (thanks to her parents) was instilled from an early age which helped her face 2020 during which she ‘never took anything for granted’ and will continue to do so.

BOOK YOUR JACOB’S CREEK TASTING EXPERIENCE TODAY OPEN DAILY 10AM TO 4:30PM CLOSED GOOD FRIDAY, CHRISTMAS EVE, CHRISTMAS DAY AND NEW YEARS DAY

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Delve into why a varietal specific wine glass is a critical component of enjoying wine to its fullest. Tasting through four St Hugo favourites, you will see how the shape of a glass,

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This is an experience for novices and aficionados alike, there is something to discover for everyone!

Open Fri-Mon 10:30-4:30pm (Closed Good Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day)

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Call us on 1800 615 440 or visit www.technogym.com

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CLAIRE FITZGERALD, DIRECTOR OF PHARMACY, CLAIRE HUMPHRIES, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PHARMACY, EMMA CHAMBERLAIN, PHARMACY TECHNICIAN - EPIC PHARMACY NORTHERN BEACHES

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The

E P I C

T E A M

W E A R E PA R T O F T H E T E A M AT E P I C P H A R M AC Y, S E R V I C I N G T H E N O R T H E R N B E A C H E S H O S P I TA L . T H E H O S P I TA L O P E N E D A S A P U B L I C A N D P R I VAT E FA C I L I T Y AT T H E E N D O F O C TO B E R 2018 WITH 488 BEDS DELIVERING A C U T E S U R G I C A L , M E D I C A L , M E N TA L H E A LT H , E M E R G E N C Y, O B S T E T R I C , PA E D I AT R I C S , I N T E N S I V E C A R E , M AT E R N I T Y, R E N A L , C A R D I A C A N D CANCER CARE SERVICES.

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C L A I R E F I T ZG E R A L D - D I R E C TO R O F P H A R M AC Y

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harmacies in hospitals are busy and rewarding, with the opportunity to work alongside the broader hospital clinical care team. Our role is to get medications to patients in a timely manner and review medications to ensure they achieve optimal outcomes.

Day-to-day we dispense medications for patients in the hospital and those going home, as well as managing stock availability on the wards and providing general pharmacy services. We pride ourselves on educating patients about their medications so that they feel empowered and safe in managing their health. Connecting with patients is our way of making a difference to their outcomes.

Leading the Epic Pharmacy Northern Beaches team along with Claire Humphries (deputy director of pharmacy) and Emma Wolfendale (technician team lead), is a predominately a female team, which includes over 20 pharmacists alongside 10 pharmacy technicians. The team truly supports each other to provide the best possible patient care, as well as assisting the doctors, nurses and wider multidisciplinary team to deliver evidence-based care that aligns with legal and safety standards for medication use.

When the pandemic reached Australia, a COVID-19 ward was established at Northern Beaches. One pharmacist was required to stay on the ward each week, delivering medication to COVID19-positive patients in full PPE to ensure no transmission of the disease. We assisted the hospital team with the development of guidelines and procedures for the management of COVID-19 patients, as well as the establishment of a COVID-safe plan for

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the pharmacy. The pharmacy team played a key role in ensuring all essential medications were available for hospital patients, while also planning for COVID-19 admissions.

Throughout this period, we were lucky to have the support of our Epic Pharmacy leadership team across Australia. Our dedicated Pharmacy Practice Unit provided an important governance framework to assist us in navigating during the pandemic, including undertaking training refreshers on how to effectively wear PPE and helping us develop the stringent processes required to stay safe. We also worked closely with the hospital to make sure patient and staff safety was never compromised.

Working through COVID-19 has been challenging, with extensive changes to workflow and processes required to achieve social distancing and minimise the risk of infection across the whole team. We now wear masks in our day-to-day work in the dispensary, on the wards and around the hospital to protect our patients and each other from the risk of infection.

Given we couldn’t come to work with so much as a sniffle, many staff have had sick leave during COVID-19. This has required us to reorganise and share our workload, which has further developed our team camaraderie.

The pandemic has been an unknown, but the team is resilient and focused on making sure patients continue to be cared for at the highest possible standard. Our pharmacy team has worked incredibly hard and the experience has deepened our connection to the hospital and to each other.

IT IS HARD TO PUT INTO WORDS WHAT COVID HAS MEANT TO ME; IT IS EASIER TO EXPRESS IN EMOTIONS. FRUSTRATION, ANGER, SADNESS THEN MOVING INTO FREEDOM. LOVE AND CREATION TO WHERE I AM TODAY, LOOKING AT THE FUTURE WITH HOPE AND OPTIMISM. MARK GABLE CHOIRBOYS

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ASCEND, ESCAPE AND BE CARRIED AWAY AT ZEPHYR BAR SYDNEY 161 Sussex Street Sydney NSW 2000 +61 2 8099 1234 | zephyrbarsydney.com

The Hyatt trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporations or its affiliates. 2020 © Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

Hyatt Regency S Y D N E Y

H YAT T R E G E N C Y S Y D N E Y I S D E L I G H T E D TO S U P P O R T T H E C L A S S I C A G E N D A H E R O E S I N I T I AT I V E A N D T O H O S T H A R T E I N T E R N AT I O N A L’ S C R E AT I V E A N D C E L E B R AT O R Y E V E N T S T H AT S H O W C A S E I N S P I R I N G A N D P O W E R F U L W O M E N F O R T H E T H I R D Y E A R R U N N I N G .

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HYATT REGENCY SYDNEY GENERAL MANAGER JANE LYONS

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his year is particularly poignant, with the exhibition and book acknowledging the contributions that local heroes have played across a range of categories (drought, bushfires, floods and COVID-19) that have provided unprecedented challenges for our industry throughout 2020 and beyond. As an organisation that has never lost sight of our people being our greatest asset, we welcome the opportunity to offer a platform that can connect and celebrate the achievements of inspiring people from all around Australia.

As a global leader in hospitality, Hyatt was built by family and these values remain at our core. We care for our guests and colleagues by providing authentic hospitality and making a difference in the lives of the people we touch every day, much like the caring nature of the extraordinary people that we are celebrating as part of the Classic Agenda Heroes initiative.

As an organisation, we celebrate the achievements of people regardless of their race, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age or ability. We work to support women in the workplace, to create opportunities for women to develop into leaders. We believe creating a culture of diversity makes us stronger as an organisation, continually moving forwards to achieve our core purpose - to care for people so they can be their best.

Hyat t Regency Sydney is deligh ted to support t he Classic Agenda Heroes initiative and to host Harte International’s creative and celebratory events t hat showcase inspiring and powerful women for t he t hird year running.

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THE SHAHROUK SISTERS WITH DAME QUENTIN BRYCE

As Australia’s largest hotel with 3,700sqm of flexible, sleek meeting and event spaces, Hyatt Regency Sydney welcomes a diverse range of events and celebrations each year with Classic Agenda being a pinnacle event on our annual calendar. Our COVIDSafe practices, flexible array of spaces and exemplary service make Hyatt Regency Sydney the smart choice for meetings and events operating in the 'new normal'. Whatever you imagine for your next business or social event… now more than ever, Hyatt Regency is here to make it possible.

HYATT REGENCY SYDNEY 161 Sussex Street, Sydney, New South Wales hyattregencysydney.com

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Hyatt Regency Sydney Make the most of being away

For reservations phone +61 2 8099 1234 or visit sydney.regency.hyatt.com The Hyatt trademark and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates. ©2019 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

SYDNEY

s w a g m a n A u s t r a l i a T R U E T H E

L U X U R Y O N R O A D - 2 0 2 1

The 2020 Classic Agenda Heroes 'road trip' was a huge challenge with not only the vastness of our amazing land but the global pandemic that in turn systematically closed our nation's borders challenging us to become creative and in resilient looking for ways to ensure our book could be finished.

With the tremendous support of Thrifty, Quest Apartments, Hyatt Hotels, the occasional sleeping bag and B&B, we managed to get there having travelled some 57,000 kilometres.

We look forward to 2021 which will be extraordinary as we visit hundreds of country and regional towns across all states. It will be the year of the Swagman.

Swagman Australia has become our luxury motorhome partner, providing the ultimate home away from home and it's all on wheels.

On March 1, at the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Swagman Australia will showcase the ultimate in outback holidaying - the ultimate road trip.

EYRE HIGHWAY GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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To n y H e w i t t & D e n i s G l e n n o n

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