Crush Magazine. Issue 1 March 2020

AUTUMN/WINTER 2020

I'M YOURS

IDYLLIC SETTINGS GOURMET PURVEYORS BEAUTIFUL HAMPERS INSPIRED RECIPES

the picnic issue

GAMES AND MORE

CHILDERS | GIN GIN | BUNDABERG | AGNES WATER

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The Optical Superstore Bundaberg

07 4152 2506 Shop 2 Royal Arcade 149 Bourbong St Bundaberg

St Luke’s Anglican School prepares children of all ages for a bright future ahead.

St Luke’s Anglican School students are known for their strength of heart, mind and character. Our School offers a dynamic and inclusive learning community, which is grounded in our Anglican traditions and embraces excellence, service, innovation and global thinking. We embrace a passion for learning, whether it be in academic endeavors, sporting performance, cultural experience, spiritual growth or service activities. St Luke’s Anglican School students have bright futures ahead, and our latest results are key indicators to demonstrate this.

St Luke’s anglican school

F A I T H

•

P E R F O R M A N C E

•

H O N O U R

Kindy to Year 12 - Book a school tour today!

07 4132 7555 | stlukes@stlukes.qld.edu.au | www.stlukes.qld.edu.au

Inspired by Christ,

educating to develop exceptional individuals.

NAPLAN Results

OP Results

Next Steps Survey Results

Year 3 and Year 5 students at St Luke’s Anglican School achieved an average NAPLAN score of 4868 - becoming the Bundaberg region’s top performing primary school.

The OP 1 - 5 results were the best in the history of the School.

St Luke’s Anglican School performed extremely well across Queensland.

Every year the Queensland Government publish their Next Steps Survey.

St Luke’s Anglican School was Bundaberg’s top performing high school. Their Year 7 and Year 9 students received an average NAPLAN score of 5863.

100% of the 2019 St Luke's Anglican School students achieving in OP 1 - 15.

36% - OP 1- 5 75% - OP 1-10 100% - OP 1-15

95.2% of Year 12 completers from St Luke's Anglican School were engaged in education, training or employment. 78% of our graduates are in further education or training, compared to 47% across the Wide Bay region.

65% enrolled in a degree at university 13% are pursuing VET pathways 18% transitioned directly into paid employment 62% completers were both working and studying

ON THE COVER: Mike, Alana and Lewis Vandenbrink enjoy a picnic at Neilson’s Park, Bargara. Thanks to Avenell Bros, The Place Hairdressing, Selina Baldry Makeup Artistry, Water St Kitchen, Cha Cha Chocolate, One Little Farm, Inn Style Mensland, Vovo’s Boutique, Cake Sera Sera and Bout Time Music. Photography by Paul Beutel.

Our Crush Magazine Models are not paid professionals – just people who love the Bundaberg Region!

READ MORE ABOUT OUR COVER MODELS MIKE AND ALANA VANDENBRINK ON P11.

12 16

26 35 41 50 58 60 67

PICK ME UP We chat to one of Bundaberg’s oldest residents

TOP 10 PICNIC SPOTS Enjoy the best the Region has to offer

STOCK YOUR BASKET Gourmet purveyors, beautiful hampers, delicious bites

BEAUTY & TERROR Photo Essay by Paul Beutel

MEMORY LANE Bundaberg was built on blood, sweat and tears

AT HOME WITH...

Leanne Baker talks about turning home organisation into a business

LIPS & LOCKS Hair and beauty tips for the cooler months

DELECTABLE DELIGHTS Happy Hour cocktails, recipes and dining

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU Must see events, shows and outings

CONTRIBUTORS

PAUL BEUTEL. PHOTOGRAPHER. "It’s good to be part of a team that values your individual strengths and gives you creative freedom. Everyone meshed together really well on our first cover shoot, to deliver a fitting showcase of our Region.”

ROWENA PREDDY. GRAPHIC DESIGNER.

Welcome.

Fall in love with the Bundaberg Region.

“Some of my favourite memories are of picnics. Beautiful location, simple, wholesome food and adventures.

Perfect when topped off with a real ice cream in a cone.”

The Bundaberg Region has come of age. We’ve always been a hub for innovation and enterprise, but our laid back town is fast gaining a reputation for the finer things and we think that’s worth celebrating.

Created by a small team of passionate long term locals, Crush Magazine is designed for optimistic, intelligent locals who lead busy lives and care about what’s happening around them. Our purpose is to help you catch your breath, let your hair down and connect with your community.

Perhaps you’re a visitor, seeking insider information about the Bundaberg Region. Crush Magazine showcases the Region’s best offerings in food, style, health, leisure, industry and the arts to entice you to stay a little longer or return for a family holiday.

With the help of our readers and business partners, Crush Magazine has the potential to boost community morale, help grow our local economy and create jobs.

We hope you enjoy reading our first issue as much as we’ve enjoyed creating it for you.

LARINE STATHAM & NIKKI SORBELLO. CRUSH MAGAZINE.

SELINA FERRAIS. GRAPHIC DESIGNER. PHOTOGRAPHER. "Full of wit, substance and inspiration, Crush is a mag that intelligent, creative people can peruse, slap down on the coffee table, whack it in their favourite old satchel or display proudly in their workplace."

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS: Tracey Olive, Tomas O’Malley, Michael Dart, Tom Marland, Ross Peddlesden. Additional images courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.

PUBLISHED BY CRUSH MAGAZINE (ABN 64 552 622 067) PO Box 2426 Bundaberg Qld 4670. The information contained within Crush Magazine (and other associated platforms) is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Crush Magazine and its partners, NJ Sorbello and LC Statham, will not be held liable for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use or reliance on any information, advertisement, opinion, advice, errors or omissions contained herein. Use of such material shall be at your own risk. Not all content is labeled to distinguish between editorial and sponsored material. All material sent to Crush Magazine (including photos, emails and social media comments) will be assumed to be publishable, unless marked ‘not for publication’.

Crush Magazine is printed by Print Craft Qld Pty Ltd; Hamilton Qld 4007. Crush marketing collateral is printed by Time2Print; Innes Park Qld 4670. All material published in Crush Magazine is subject to copyright.

Accordingly, all rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Retail products advertised and promoted in Crush Magazine are subject to availability, while stocks last. Colours shown may differ from products available due to the printing process. Please see our website for full Terms and Conditions, including those relating to competitions and giveaways.

WIN a $500 picnic hamper for two!

Crush Magazine is all about you!

Tell us what you’d like to see in Crush Magazine. Just hold your mobile phone camera over the QR code or go to www.crushmagazine.com.au and complete our five minute survey. Leave your email address to go in the draw to win a two-person Avanti Australian-natives picnic basket from Avenell Bros filled to the brim with seasonal goodies from One Little Farm.

The winner will be drawn on Friday, August 28, 2020.

See our website for terms and conditions.

Just focus the camera on your smart phone on the QR code and you’ll be directed straight to the survey.

www.crushmagazine.com.au

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES: editorial@crushmagazine.com.au

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: sales@crushmagazine.com.au

POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 2426 Bundaberg Qld 4670

THE MAGICAL CHOCOLATE SHOP IN BUNDABERG Experience the magic of Cha Cha Chocolate in the heart of Bundaberg’s CBD. We source delicious chocolates from around the world, as well as the best Australian chocolatiers have to offer.

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meet the models

Rocky Mountain

High-stakes

Taking the outdoor picnic to the extreme The Canadian landscape offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world so it is little wonder that, like Australia, being outdoors is a favourite pastime.

With Canada reaching temperatures of Minus 35 in winter, you could be forgiven for thinking picnics were limited to six months of the year.

Hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, boating, fishing, canoing, white water rafting and kayaking are all regular activities. And when you spend the day outdoors, you take your picnic with you.

But according to Alana and Mike, because so much of the Canadian lifestyle revolves around snow, skiing and winter sports, outdoor picnics on the slopes are part of the experience.

For Childers’ local Alana, who spent eight years living in Canada, the similarities with her home country are many. But where they differ it is extreme.

“You pick a spot going down the mountain and throw your jackets onto the ground as a makeshift blanket. There are no picnic baskets, just backpacks that are filled with beer and food that can be eaten frozen and won’t be squashed like trail mix, granola bars and fruit bars,” Mike said.

“I remember going on my first outdoor outing with Mike (her Canadian husband) and we decided to go for a hike and picnic. We packed our bags and when we were ready to set off, Mike put a machette in my backpack,” Alana said.

The large weapon was to fend off wayward bears.

Mike and Alana Vandenbrink in Jasper, Alberta, Canada.

The Galatea Lake Hiking Trail in Alberta, Canada. A machette is easily accessible at the back of Alana's pack.

I would be up front so if we were to encounter a bear, Mike could grab the machette to protect us.

“You don’t walk side by side, you walk in single file. I would be up front so if we were to encounter a bear, Mike could grab the machette to protect us,” Alana said.

“Another time we were hiking and I had been eating an apple. As you do in Australia, being completely biodegradable, I threw the core into the bush. Mike was horrified and let me know that any kind of food scraps could attract bears to the hiking trails and potentially into the path of humans.”

Loading your backpack becomes an artform.

“You have to make sure the beer is close enough to your body so it doesn’t freeze from the cold, but far enough away from it so it’s cold enough. And then you have to make sure it is protected if you fall on top of them,” he said.

Generally speaking though, Canadian picnic baskets don’t tend to differ too much to Australian ones – they are filled with sandwiches, quiche or frittata, muffins and whatever seasonal fruits you can buy from a roadside stall.

Mike and Alana are the owners of Mollydookers Café and Bar at Apple Tree Creek, Childers – a fusion of Canadian and Modern Australia cuisine, featuring traditional wings, poutine and ceasars.

FOR A TRADITIONAL CANADIAN SANDWICH RECIPE, SEE P63

13

gifts for her

1

The worldly candle and diffuser scents you’ve come to know and love from Glasshouse - like Amalfi, Hampton and Kyoto – are being given a fresh new look in 2020. Glasshouse has also created a beautiful range of Eau De Parfum body fragrances for your handbag.

Available at Homeleigh House.

3

2 4

5

Shop Local 1. galah cushion by Woodgate artist Sandy McLean, 2. clutch purses handmade by Willow & Hide in Childers. 3. Limonda Rosa Tielka Tea made in Agnes Water, 4. opera pearls from Warners Fine Jewellery, 5. Leanne Baker Daily planner (read more on page 50), Glasshouse Fragrances new range is available at Homeleigh House. Shop 18 Centrepoint, Cnr of See and Bauer streets, Bargara. Open 7 days

pick me up

Youngat heart Born in Bundaberg on June 9, 1918, Herbert Woodward served 1597 days as a Sapper in the Australian Army before being discharged in 1945. During WWII, Herb went AWOL in Queensland to see his love. As he tells it, he handed himself in and begged for forgiveness. Herb’s Commanding Officer granted him leave without charge.

Herb and his father built many of the homes in Childers and Gin Gin. In the early 1960s, Herb built the South Bundaberg residence that he and his family called home for 55 years. The father of two confesses the cavity brick house was only “as finished as a carpenter ever finishes anything”.

Today, Herb lives at RSL Fairways Retirement Village and is regarded by many as “his worship, the unofficial Mayor of Bundaberg”. Not long after celebrating his 100th birthday, Herb declined to participate in a seated physiotherapy class because it was “for bloody old people”.

Crush Magazine enjoyed a Sunday morning cuppa with Herb and a few of his veteran mates at Alowishus Delicious in Earls Court arcade late last year. Charming and vivacious as ever; Herb shared his thoughts on living your best life at any age.

20 year old He rber Woodward on t Bourbong St reet

What’s your pick me up Herb?

Exercise, keep your mind

A flat white with two sugars.

active, don’t over do it. My

Classic.

advice for the young fellas of

Favourite local coffee shop, and why?

Alowishus. I come here for the hugs from Tracey (owner).

About 20 years ago I ran into an old mate who introduced me to these fellows. The next week I turned up again and we’ve been meeting for weekly coffee ever since.

Before I met these blokes I had nowhere to turn to talk.

Herb with veteran friends Noel Derone and Dusty Miller, as well Alowishus Delicious owner Tracey McPhee. Photo: Paul Beutel

We settle in for the morning, but we don’t talk about war.

It’s just camaraderie.

Why Bundaberg?

I reckon Bundaberg is the best place in the world. A good summer and a good winter; what more could you want? It’s a good town, and when I was young there were half a dozen dance halls

today is to stay on the right side of the law. Work hard; you don’t have to be paid for it. Learn, learn, learn – every day is a learning process.

What makes you happy?

Definitely not coming out with Dusty (pictured)! But I would say mateship. I’m a Freemason. When I was discharged, there were blokes looking after blokes, but no one was caring for the widows. So I joined Legacy.

If they’d lost their husband, I’d go out and see them and try to put them on the right track to get assistance.

Bush or beach?

I love the surf.

Sunrise or sunset?

Sunset.

around the place.

Any final words of wisdom?

What are the ingredients for

something throughout the

a good life?

day that cheers you up.

Look for the good. Find

15

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Shop 5, 15–17 Marina Drive, Burnett Heads QLD 4670 2018

2019

WINNER

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Tourism Visitor

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Attraction Business of the Year

Attraction Business of the Year

2019

WINNER Presidents Award

picnic style

His &hers

Shop Local HIM:

Want it?

Inn Style Mensland 23 Electra St, Bundaberg QLD 4670 Gypsy n Folk 196 Bourbong St, Bundaberg QLD 4670 The Optical Superstore 149 Bourbong St, Bundaberg QLD 4670

Scotch and Soda hat, shirt and shorts from Inn Style Mensland, Uncut shoes from Inn Style Mensland, City Club leather belt from Inn Style Mensland, Pierre Cardin wallet from Inn Style Mensland, Polo Ralph Lauren sunglasses from The Optical Superstore.

HER: MinkPink knit and dress from Gypsy n Folk, Meleika shoes from Gypsy n Folk, Hobo and Hatch purse from Gypsy n Folk, Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses from The Optical Superstore.

17

Picnic There is something about fresh air and having grass between your toes that makes a simple meal extraordinary. Reclining on a large rug under a tree with your family and friends, snacking and sipping, evokes a level of relaxation that is often elusive in today’s era of 24-7 technology.

Children laugh, in the distance, as they play boules on the lawn. Your partner gently strums a ukulele, as you slowly turn the pages of a magazine (Crush, of course!). There are no errands to run, or calls to return.

The modern picnic we enjoy today has evolved significantly from the English and French pique-niques of the late 1600s, due to our innate desire to dine alfresco.

PASTIMES

In recent years, picnics have enjoyed a global resurgence in popularity. Perhaps it’s because champagne tastes that much sweeter when you’re watching waves lap against a shore. We feel a little less guilty about adding chocolate to our scroggin or trail mix after a long bush walk.

Whether you like to sit quietly on a park bench with a simple sandwich, cook a barbecue in a park with your kids or stage a romantic, luxe day-long event for two; a picnic is one of the best ways to enjoy the Bundaberg Region’s culinary delights and stunning scenery.

Leaving the convenience of the dining table to enjoy your food in the great outdoors may seem like more trouble than it’s worth. Most Australians will recall at least one unpleasant picnic story from their childhood. However, insects and inclement weather are rare in the

Bundaberg Region in Autumn and Winter.

With little more than a light cardigan draped across your shoulders, it’s still warm enough to kick off your shoes.

There is no traffic to endure; no crowds to compete with.

We’ve created a local picnic guide so you can partake in one our favourite past times. Discover ten of the Bundaberg Region’s most idyllic settings, as well as some of our favourite gourmet food purveyors. We’ve also included a selection of baskets, outdoor accessories and casual picnic fashion. And then there are the fantastic local businesses who can arrange a hamper for you.

BonAppetit!

Mike, Alana and Lewis Vandenbrink enjoy a picnic at Neilson’s Park, Bargara. Thanks to Avenell Bros, The Place Hairdressing, Selina Baldry Makeup Artistry, Water St Kitchen, Cha Cha Chocolate, One Little Farm, Inn Style Mensland, Vovo’s Boutique, Cake Sera Sera and Bout Time Music. Photography by Paul Beutel.

19

TOP SPOTS Crush Magazine has selected ten of our favourite places to picnic. What are you waiting for? Pack your basket, get your special people together and hit the road!

1

ElliottHeads

Elliott Heads is a favourite holiday destination for Brisbane residents Jacob and Chantelle Crust. You can follow their journey on Instagram @travelsbythetrio

White sand and sparkling blue ocean make Elliott Heads a water sport enthusiast’s dream year round.

Kiteboarders and windsurfers make the most of the strong south easterly winds in the river mouth. When it isn’t too blowy,

2 The Basin Located opposite Bargara Golf Club, Christsen Park is a firm favourite among local families. Affectionately referred to as The Basin, it’s a perfect place for young children to wander, explore and use their imagination.

the sheltered inlet and gentle surf provide the perfect conditions for stand up paddle boarding and kayaking. At the northern end of Elliott Heads, spear fishers test their skill at Double Rock.

If sand is not your thing, and you’d rather admire the spectacular view with your feet firmly planted on grass, picnic tables and barbecues are dotted along the undulating escarpment.

Like many of Bargara’s beaches, volcanic rock had to be moved to expose this stretch of sand to create The Basin. This large tidal rock pool can be examined on foot by rock hopping around the fringes, or snorkel through the centre after a high tide to admire brightly coloured fish.

The neighbouring playground caters for children of all ages, especially those

The township underwent a major facelift in 2019, in recognition of its rising popularity, making it accessible for people of most ability levels.

If it’s quality, traditional fish and chips you’re looking for, try the little general store (painted red and green in support of the owners’ beloved South Sydney NRL team) situated on the sharp bend where Elliott Heads Road becomes Lihs Street.

wanting to channel their inner pirate.

There is plenty of open space to lay your picnic rug, or enjoy a barbecue. The facility’s compact and convenient design means it’s a very short walk back to the car if you’ve forgotten something.

Enjoy. www.widebaykids.com.au/ christsen-park-bargara/

3 THE BEAUTIFUL

Burnett River

on a BBQ boat

More often than not, Mother’s Day is anything but relaxing. If you’re not hosting a lunch, you’re rushing between visiting your own mum and motherin-law. Wouldn’t it be great to share the load, and try something new that everyone will enjoy?

Tell everyone to bring a plate of food and drinks, wear comfortable shoes and pack their fishing rods. This year, you’re all heading out on the beautiful Burnett River.

Don’t have a boat licence? Not to worry!

You and 11 of your loved ones can still immerse yourselves in this idyllic setting with the help of BBQ Boat Experience.

Pop the bubbly, and enjoy your daily dose of Vitamin D on the sundeck while the kids wet a line and the fellas get the barbecue going.

Already made plans for Mother’s Day? Why not enjoy a romantic champagne breakfast for two or an afternoon birthday beer with your mates bobbing on the Burnett.

Not just for special occasions, the 8m pontoon cruise boats are available for hire on an hourly, half day or full day rate.

They’re wheelchair accessible with toilet onboard. You can even hire a skipper to show you the best spots and sights.

More than 40 tributaries flow into the mighty Burnett River, as it snakes it’s way through Mundubbera, Gayndah, Wallaville and Bundaberg before spilling into the ocean at Burnett Heads.

It’s a bird watcher’s paradise and regarded as one of the Region’s best places to go fishing.

Around Bundaberg, the River can be fished anywhere between Burnett Heads and Ben Anderson Barrage, but Kirby’s Wall is a firm favourite.

Equipped with fishing rod holders and a fresh water sink, you can cook what you catch on a BBQ Boat. Seafood doesn’t get any fresher than that!

One of the best and most relaxing ways to get a feel for the Bundaberg Region’s

industrial heritage is to cruise up river to Tallon Bridge.

Journey past the sugar storage and loading terminal at the Port up to Millaquin Mill, the Bundaberg Rum Distillery and Bundaberg Walkers Engineering.

Admire the city of Bundaberg from a whole new angle, where fishing trawlers unload their bountiful, fresh catch on the southern side of the river.

If you look closely enough, beyond the mangroves, you’ll see some of Bundaberg’s most spectacular Queensland timber homesteads nestled in amongst poinciana trees.

Only a few subtle signs of the devastating 2011 and 2013 floods remain.

Relax.

www.bbqboatexperience.com.au Departing from Bundaberg Port Marina.

15-17 Marina Drive, Burnett Heads QLD 4670

21

top spots

4 Vintner’s Secret Nestled in one of the Region’s most

harmony to create delightful,

grapes or plant varieties not suited to

picturesque landscapes, just 2km north

fragrant grounds.

the Childers climate.

Each quirky piece of garden art, made

Instead, Vintner’s Secret play to their

of Childers, Vintner’s Secret is a feast for the senses.

from recycled materials and discarded

Surrounded by rolling hills of sugar cane

items, has a story to tell. It’s a relaxing,

strengths. They favour varieties like Verdelho, which originated in Portugal.

and macadamia nut orchards, this is a

child-friendly place to spend a few

boutique winery with loads of character.

hours on a cool day.

Make your way up the curvaceous

Greet the friendly farm animals and

gravel driveway to find a homely little

visit the heirloom herb and vegetable

oasis. It’s an eclectic venue, teeming

garden, before heading inside for

with life.

wine tasting.

Whispers Café.

Sub-tropical, English and cottage

Pick a garden path: they all lead back to

The hardest choice you’ll have to make

gardening styles somehow work in

the cellar door. Here, they don’t buy in

is where to lay your picnic rug.

Discover it!

Telephone ahead to have a picnic hamper of sandwiches, cheese, fresh fruit and cake arranged for you, or enjoy Devonshire tea at

Open 10am – 4pm Wednesday to Sunday, or for private functions.

www.vintnerssecret.com.au

5

Mount Walsh Adventure seekers and outdoor lovers of all kinds will love everything that Mount Walsh National Park has to offer.

although you do have to work for them – the climb is recommended for those with a good level of fitness.

This landmark is just shy of an hour-and-ahalf drive from Bundaberg or 45-minutes from Childers, just past Biggenden, but it is certainly worth the trip.

Another popular trail takes you to Waterfall Creek or Utopia Falls as they are commonly known, with plenty of rockpools and waterfalls to explore.

Climbing to the top of Mount Walsh is marked and the views are spectacular,

Four-wheel-drive enthusiasts can drive through to Coongara Rock which offers

the beauty of the granite rock on one side and amazing bush on the other.

Picnic facilities are limited, but covered tables are available at the base of Mount Walsh and make for a stunning picnic setting. Be sure to bring everything you need, including water, and be mindful of taking all rubbish with you.

Explore.

www.parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/ mount-walsh/about.html

6 Woodgate

Beach

The Bundaberg Region has no shortage

Just 40km from Childers and 55km from

Barbecue facilities are available at the

of spectacular beaches, but ask any local

Bundaberg, Woodgate Beach offers the

entrance to Woodgate Beach, Woodgate

– there is just something extra special

perfect seaside picnic spot when you

Community Park and Bankisa Park, with

about Woodgate Beach.

The small beachside hamlet hasn’t lost its sleepy seaside village vibe, likely due to being landlocked by national park and kilometres of pacific ocean. The spot is so

want to get away for the day.

Plan a day to enjoy the fresh air and uninterrupted sound of lightly crashing waves. Build sandcastles and collect seashells. Walk part of the 16km foreshore or one of the national park walking tracks.

popular it is a favourite holiday location

Take a reel and throw in a line or enjoy one

for visitors and locals alike.

of the parks with the kids.

picnic tables dotted along the esplanade.

There are also some beautiful picnic spots to check out at Walker’s Point and Theodelite Creek.

Unwind.

www.bundabergregion.org/ visit-woodgate-beach

23

top spots

Bundaberg 1

Botanic Gardens

Bundaberg Botanic Gardens is one

ducks, turtles, water dragons, eels and

of those places where you discover

so-called bin chickens. Food is available

something new every time you visit.

for purchase at Café 1928.

Get lost, wandering along the meandering

Please do not feed the animals bread,

pathways. Find a secluded spot to enjoy

as it can make them sick and pollutes

your own company. Wrestle with the kids

the waterways.

and family dog on the lush buffalo lawn.

If you are someone who doesn’t like to leave any stone unturned, allow yourself plenty of time to uncover its gems. Set across 27ha, the gardens alone are a 2

Explore the rare fruit orchard, wander through an ancient garden and enjoy the tranquillity of the Japanese and Chinese

admire.

gardens. The Garden’s magnificent display

Located right near the main entrance is an award-winning nature-inspired playground of obstacles and imagination. It includes a water based play area and towering tunnel slide. Just a friendly warning – if you have kids in tow, you may not get any further than the playground. Thankfully, there are picnic tables and barbecues close by.

4

Discover the tallest Heliconia in the world.

splendour that can take hours to properly

FOR KIDS

3

FOR NATURE LOVERS

of flowers, foliage and fruit changes with the seasons to provide endless beauty year round.

The Fraser Island Vine flowers from late winter to late spring, showcasing clusters of beautiful pink flowers with white throats. You’ll find this vine near the Bundaberg Historical Museum. (1) Stroll across a timber bridge to find the remarkable Fan Palm. Found only in

The Gardens surround a series of

Queensland, it can take up to 20 years for

wetlands and ponds that are home to

these palms to reach their full potential. (2)

Walk under the eye catching Sandpaper Vine, which originates from Central and South America. The delicate flowers are a stark contrast to its stiff, sandpaper textured leaves. (3) Pine trees like the Leichardt Pine have been planted in the Botanic Gardens to signify the local importance of the timber industry before the introduction of sugarcane. From September to January look for stunning orange blooms. (4) FOR HISTORY BUFFS Tour Fairymead House Sugar History Museum to learn all about the industry Bundaberg was built on.

The Hinkler Hall of Aviation is dedicated to Bundaberg-born aviator, Bert Hinkler. The son of a sugar mill worker, Bert built many gliders and completed record-breaking solo flights.

The Hall features a number of interactive exhibits, as well as Bert’s immaculately-restored Armstrong Siddley motor vehicle. Just next door is Bert’s home, Hinkler House ‘Mon Repos’, which was painstakingly relocated from England to Bundaberg.

Find it!

6 Mt Perry Road, Bundaberg North QLD 4670 Open 7 days. Free entry www.bundaberg.qld.gov.au

All aboard!

The Australian Sugarcane Railway Museum runs on a 2km circuit through the Botanic Gardens and workshop, and is maintained and operated entirely by dedicated volunteers.

Tickets are available for purchase on the platform.

Cash only. www.bundabergcanetrains.org.au

7

top spots Chinaman’s Beach is like something out of the opening scenes of 1978 teen romance film, Grease.

8 Chinaman’s

Beach

Large rocky, ghost-like escarpments frame both sides of the beach, creating a secluded romantic haven.

As you admire the almost ochre sand and sparkling blue sea, hoping to spot a dolphin, arid coastal vegetation sprawls up the hill behind you.

It’s a turtle nesting site from November to April, but is pet friendly for much of the cooler months of the year.

As you wander, collecting shells, you might stumble upon the wooden hut that local beach goers continue to add to, piece by piece.

The waters here can be rough, choppy and unforgiving. Why not enjoy the coastline on foot? There are a number of fantastic bush walks south of Agnes Water.

PHOTO:

@travelsbythetrio

Find it!

Head out of town along Springs Road, about 1.5km south of Agnes Water.

Turn left and follow the road around to a small carpark.

There is nothing more romantic than a date-night picnic under the stars.

Our dazzling night sky is something we often take for granted in the Bundaberg Region.

With very little light pollution or smog, more and more citydwellers are visiting the Southern Great Barrier Reef to stargaze.

One of our favourite places for a nocturnal picnic is The Hummock.

Sit at the top of Bundaberg’s only hill lookout and watch the sun set over the city lights to the west, while the moon rises over the ocean in the east.

Marvel at Mother Nature and just how small we are, as a sprawling galaxy of sparkling diamonds is revealed.

Situated just off the road to Bargara, The Hummock is a volcanic remnant that sits just 96 metres above sea level.

9

It is the only blemish on an otherwise smooth, flat landscape, making it the ideal place to admire the Milky Way.

Hummock THE

You might even be lucky enough to see a shooting star. Who knows; your wish may just come true.

Reach it!

The Hummock Lookout is accessible via Bargara Road and Windermere Road.

We’d love you to share your picnic outings and top spots with us on Instagram and Facebook!

TAG US AND USE THE HASHTAGS #CRUSHMAGAU #BUNDYCRUSH

10

Bustard Bay Arguably one of the most beautiful, untouched places in Australia, Bustard Bay is an untamed wilderness waiting to be explored.

If you don’t have your own boat or kayak, a two hour LARC + Lunch tour is a fun way to unleash your inner pioneer.

The iconic hot pink LARCs have been operating in the Town of 1770 for more than 25 years, and are a firm favourite with locals and tourists alike.

Larrikin LARC tour guides share their extensive knowledge of local history, abundant wildlife and indigenous culture, before serving sandwiches or wraps and fresh fruit, cakes and cold drinks under the shade of a Casuarina tree.

Watch the armies of soldiers crabs that scamper en masse across the sand, and marvel at sea eagles that dive with precision to catch their prey.

A mecca for bird watchers, Bustard Bay got its name from the bird that

ON THE LARC!

Lieutenant James Cook ate when he anchored the Endeavour and came ashore at Round Hill on May 24, 1770.

Built by the US Army in the mid 1960s, the amphibious LARCs have been named in honour of Sir Joseph Banks and Dr Daniel Carl Solander; the two botanists who accompanied Captain Cook when he explored the east coast of Australia.

Love it?

Eco-Certified LARC! Tours depart from the 1770 Marina, 535 Captain Cook Drive, Town of 1770 QLD 4677 www.1770larctours.com.au

27

stock your

BASKET

Shop Local 1. Stanley Rogers picnic table from Avenell Bros, 2. housemade pear and almond shortbread cake with caramel sauce from Saskia, 3. Lonnie’s Chai tea, 4. Avanti picnic basket and keep cup from Avenell Bros, 5. Vintner’s Secret Field Song sparkling verdelho, 6. double walled sparkling flutes from Saskia, 7. The Shanty Corporation cushion from Saskia, 8. Talisman throw from Saskia, 9. Majolica cabbage dinnerwear from Avenell Bros, 10. Vietnamese bahn mi from Targo Street Bakehouse, 11. Macadamias Australia roasted salted macadamias, 12. Gin Gin & Dry dried Australian fruit salad.

There is no shortage of fine food purveyors in the Bundaberg Region.

From smoked seafood and sourdough breads to delicious condiments and honey, juices and softdrinks, nuts and spices.

From free range eggs and milk to coffee, gin, cider, rum and beer.

We couldn’t fit them all in this issue, so we’ve selected just a few of our favourite local gourmet food businesses that can help you stock your basket.

Choose from snacks and housemade goodies that are ready to go, or buy the ingredients to make your own.

Don’t forget the seasonal roadside stalls and honesty boxes, where fresh produce is bountiful year-round. You can find the local seasonality guide at www.crushmagazine.com.au Better yet, join a food tour that will take you behind the scenes.

We hope our basket inspires you to share your favourite picnic recipes with us on Facebook and Instagram #crushmagau #bundycrush

Want it?

Mention Crush Magazine when you buy a picnic basket from Avenell Bros to receive a free keep cup.

4

Limited to one per person, while stocks last.

See Crush website for full terms and conditions.

7

3

2 5

1

12

6

11 10

8

9

Cha Cha Chocolate “Like a kid in a candy shop” is a saying that surely must have been written just for Cha Cha Chocolate.

Even a person with the most hardened heart would struggle not to feel joy in this wonderous little store.

If there’s a sweet you loved as a child but thought it was no longer in production, there’s a fair chance owner Melanice Jacobsen stocks it. Bertie Beetles and Golden Roughs, Poly Waffles and Clinkers.

Cha Cha Chocolate caters for kids, “big kids” and adults with the most discerning of tastes.

Melanice personally selects and sources all of her products from around Australia and overseas, and hand-makes the smoothest fudge you’ve ever tasted.

Cha Cha could rival even the very best chocolatiers in Melbourne and Sydney, and has earnt a reputation for exclusively stocking European products not available anywhere else in Australia.

You’ll have a hard time choosing what to put in your basket when you visit this store. Or why not put your trust in them to create a gift basket of sweet treats for you!

Love it?

23 Targo Street Bundaberg, QLD 4670

stock your basket “She could turn the most basic ingredients into something amazing. It can be hard to find things in regional Queensland, and we wanted to change that.”

Nana’s Pantry Stepping into Nana’s Pantry is like getting a warm hug from your grandma.

And that’s exactly what inspired owners Leisa and Darryl Storey to open the Bundaberg institution 17 years ago.

“My Nana was a great cook and I remember the smells coming from her kitchen,” Leisa said.

Need it?

The store stocks a mindblowing array of food staples, wholefoods, condiments, coffees, teas, herbs, spices and lollies. Their housemade gelato is world class and available from a number of other local cafes.

They offer free recipes and weekly demonstrations from a visiting nutritionist. Dietary requirements like gluten free, keto, paleo, vegan and dairy free are also catered for.

Dedicated to reducing waste, Nana’s Pantry encourages customers to bring their own reusable containers.

38 Electra Street, Bundaberg QLD 4670

One Little Farm Florist. Farmer. Green Grocer. One Little Farm stocks the freshest ingredients for your picnic basket or kitchen table.

The fourth generation farmers offer everything from fresh flowers and vases to gifts, produce boxes and packaged foods, including their very own Bunda Ginga products.

Their products are lovingly grown, hand-picked and packed. Order ahead for quick pickup or browse instore.

Delivery available.

If it’s in season and they don’t grow it themselves, their first priority is sourcing it locally.

If you’re dining on local produce at a Bundaberg café or restaurant, there’s a fair chance it’s been sourced from One Little Farm.

Get it!

Shop 3, 133 Bargara Road, Bundaberg East QLD 4670

Macadamias Australia For more than 60 years, the Steinhardt family has been proudly growing food in Bundaberg.

They are industry leaders when it comes to eco management and sustainable farming.

Many stores around Bundaberg stock their nutritious, tasty macadamia products. But if you want to sample their full range of salty and sweet snacks before heading out on a picnic, we recommend stopping in at their farm

Want it!

gate on Goodwood Road.

Their Lemon Myrtle Macadamias are dusted in a secret mix of native flavours that give them a uniquely zesty twist with a sweet peppery finish.

Their Vanilla Happy Nuts are roasted in shell before being gently infused with vanilla flavours to create a uniquely aromatic product.

A special key is provided inside the pack – just insert the key into the nut shell and twist to reveal a treat unlike any other.

4625 Goodwood Road, Alloway QLD 4670

Targo Street Bakehouse This is one Vietnamese bakery that will transport you to the streets of Ho Chi Minh city.

Their banh mi (pictured) is delicious – particularly the traditional crunchy pork belly with pickled carrot, their own secret pork mince pate, coriander, fresh chilli and cucumber.

Hannah Vu runs the shop with her parents, making all their family recipes.

Try it!

The result is a harmonious collision of Asian, French and Australian influences.

Enjoy high quality pastries, sweets and cakes. Fresh bread rolls filled with lemongrass chicken, rice paper rolls and sushi.

They also bake sourdough bread and traditional Aussie meat pies. There is something for every member of the family at Targo Street Bakehouse.

57 Targo Street, Bundaberg QLD 4670

Red Shed Seafood There is something undeniably special about fresh seafood.

Nothing beats heading to the beach with a bag of cooked prawns to devour on a fresh bread roll with avocado, lettuce and seafood sauce.

Best enjoyed with a cold beer or a glass of bubbly, seafood is as versatile as it is tasty. One of the simplest ways to enjoy seafood alfresco in Winter is to grill green prawn skewers and reef fish (wrapped in foil with butter) on a hot barbecue.

Red Shed Seafood prides itself on selling sustainably caught seafood of the freshest quality.

If it’s available locally and in season, they’ll have it.

As well as stocking a stunning array of reef and estuary fish, Red Shed sells prawns, bugs, crab, scallops, cuttlefish and squid tubes (and plenty more). Even the fish in their freezer is filleted on site.

The only exception to their “local first” philosophy is their cold climate range of mussels, Pacific oysters and Tasmanian salmon.

They can make bespoke cooked seafood platters to suit your budget and taste, and stock a range of preservative free and gluten free sauces.

Love it?

5E Quay Street, Bundaberg East QLD 4670

Agnes Water Foodworks Take the time to truly appreciate this supermarket.

Agnes Water Foodworks has amassed a long list of national and state accolades, and for good reason.

It punches well above its weight.

Here, you’ll find everything you need to fill your picnic hamper or prepare a fantastic Sunday spread.

Have it!

Cooking not your thing? The deli here stocks a diverse range of quality pre-made meals, including pastas, frittatas, pies and salads.

With an impressive selection of organic produce, Agnes Water Foodworks is proof that quality food and good customer service can be found in delightfully far-flung regional Queensland.

Lot 1 Round Hill Road, Agnes Water QLD 4677

31

stock your basket Olsen’s Corner Foodworks You can quickly measure a person’s age and how long they’ve been in Bundaberg but what name they give Foodworks on Walker Street.

You might know it as Southside Foodworks, Learmonth’s or Olsen’s Corner. It’s undergone a few transformations over the years.

Whatever you call it, one thing’s for sure: Olsen’s Corner is Bundaberg’s best grocery store!

It’s a foodie heaven for anyone who’s travelled to Europe and longs for a premium delicatessen.

You’ll find everything you need to create a delicious cheese, antipasto or charcuterie board. Salami, prosciutto, jamon,

breads and lavosh. Add some muscatels or maraschino cherries.

you won’t find in the major supermarkets.

This is a one-stop-shop. Whether you need

silverside, Tiaro leg ham, brawn and other

Their deli includes a wide range of fresh

the basic essentials or are planning a special

lunch meats. Better yet, have them make

pre-made salads and sweets, like baklava.

soiree, Olsen’s Corner has you covered.

one for you.

They have an extensive range of olive

As well as having their own inhouse butcher and green grocer, Olsen’s Corner

oils, balsamic vinegars and dips, crackers,

stocks all the local products and produce

Want it?

56 Walker Street, Bundaberg QLD 4670

By Appointment only!

Shaun & Nicole Read 178 Li abella Siding Ln, Yandaran QLD 4673 0417 599 309

Bundy Food TOURS

Most agricultural regions across Australia

“We take guests on a behind-the-scenes

are known for one thing. Whether that

guided tour of family-owned farms, coffee

be wine, wool, or beef – they do it well.

roasters, seafood markets, sourdough

And, until recent times, Bundaberg was

bakeries and distilleries, where they can

no different.

The ‘Rum City’ crown is still worn

buy an array of goodies for their picnic basket or kitchen table.

proudly, but what sets the Bundaberg

“The farmers are very generous with

Region apart from other food bowls

their time and enjoy sharing their tips for

today is its diversity.

preparing and serving the produce.

There are few places you can stock

“A meal has more meaning when you

“The Bundaberg Region has a unique

know where it comes from.

history, where generations of families

your entire picnic basket with local ingredients alone. Bundaberg is spoilt for choice, and knowing where to start

“Sharing food is how we connect; it’s

can be overwhelming.

something all people have in common.”

A Bundy Food Tour with Suzie Clarke is

As a high school teacher, it was a food

the perfect option for both visitors and

and textiles study tour to Vietnam that

locals who are seeking to discover new

inspired Suzie to start Bundy Food Tours

things about their own backyard.

in 2016.

“It makes me feel good seeing locals get

“Food tourism is an emerging industry in

excited to learn something new about

Vietnam. They are turning family fishing

our food production and be inspired,”

and farming businesses into successful

Suzie said.

tourism ventures,” she said.

grow food and create exciting products and beverages, so it made perfect sense that we would offer authentic tourism experiences here at home.

“I wanted to share our Region’s unique stories of innovation, and show people you don’t have to travel abroad to have an iconic food experience.”

Love it!

www.bundyfoodtours.com.au

33

Fun

& games

Remember when you were a kid, and your parents had one very clear rule: “be home before the streetlights come on”?

Life was simple. You played cricket in the street with your neighbours and threw a frisbee in the park on family picnics.

We’ve selected a few of our favourite old school outdoor family activities, to get the kids away from their screens.

On a trip to Toyworld we spotted a frisbee, soccer ball, travel chess, ring toss, bocce, cards and much more.

Game on!

Need it?

TOYWORLD BUNDABERG 107 Takalvan Street, Bundaberg QLD 4670

PHOTO: Paul Beutel

Homewares, fashion, jewellery, furniture, books and baby gifts.

ALL HANDPICKED BY SASKIA. Serving breakfast from 8am Monday to Saturday.

HOUSEMADE CAKES, MEALS, SALADS AND CONDIMENTS.

Shop 4, Millaquin Markets, 133 Bargara Rd, Bundaberg Q 4670

4151 1873 ¦ shop@saskia.net.au

INTRODUCING...

B U N DA B E R G - Q U E E N S L A N D -

AUSTRALIA

Born out of the sugar cane fields in Australia's Rum capital Bundaberg, Kalki Moon is the region's Artisan Distilling Company.

Founded in 2017 by former Bundaberg Rum Master Distiller Rick Prosser, Kalki Moon is a 100% family owned and operated company with a focus on quality over quantity.

Since their inception the company has won many National and International Awards for their portfolio of Gin, Vodka and Liqueurs with the highlight being shortlisted as International Gin Producer of the Year, at the International Wine & Spirits Awards.

Kalki Moon was initially founded as a Small Batch Premium Rum Distillery, but with the success of the company's Gin range this has seen them embrace their new identity as Bundaberg's Gin Distillery. The production of Rum hasn't stopped and is pencilled in for release late 2020.

With their footprint continuing to grow around Australia the brand has also just started exporting into the Home of Gin, London England.

Open daily 7 days from 10am the company embraces new and old visitors to take a guided tour of their production facility and enjoy a complimentary tasting of the handcrafted Australian made spirits.

To be one of only a handful of Australian Gins in and around the UK is very exciting for our brand.

Kalki Moon is located at 22 Commercial Street, Just 1k from the Airport and 10 mins drive from the Bundaberg CBD.

For more information head to www.kalkimoon.com AUSTRALIA ENQUIRIES: admin@kalkimoon.com UK ENQUIRES: will@nippitaty.co.uk

Rick Prosser

&

terror

PHOTO ESSAY BY PAUL BEUTEL WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM On a perfectly still winter evening, with water trucks and shovels at the ready, Wayne Baldry pulls his hat down on his head and raises his collar to cover the back of his neck.

He lights his drip torch and makes his way along the break. The fire catches quickly, burning the trash from between the stalks of sugarcane.

Sweat dripping from his brow, Wayne doesn’t take his eye off the fire for a single moment. Water is sprayed liberally to extinguish the glowing embers that fill the sapphire sky.

Cars pull to the side of the road to admire the roaring splendour of orange, red, purple and white. It’s as though Dorothea Mackellar had Bundaberg’s cane fires in mind when she penned the words “her beauty and her terror”.

Cane burning is a skill the Baldry family has honed over generations; a testament to their ability to manage their land and understand weather patterns.

“Bundy snow” events are becoming less frequent every crush season, as canefarmers diversify into other crops.

With the help of the Baldry family, photographer Paul Beutel has been capturing the dying practice for the past seven years. Like much of his work, Paul’s poignant photos will serve as an important public record of Bundaberg’s history long after those who can remember cane fires are gone.

Paul’s coffee table book, documenting Bundaberg’s cane fires, is available for purchase at www.paulbeutelphoto.com.au

37

photo essay

07 4152 2999 | 102a Bourbong Street, Bundaberg Central 39

photo essay

41

bundabergradio.com.au

BLOOD

sweat

AND TEARS

Memory Lane

BY ROSS PEDDLESDEN

Next time you go to Mon Repos, or travel from Bundaberg to Bargara, have a look at the old stone walls you see there.

They weren’t put there by large machinery. They were hand built on blood, sweat and tears.

They’re the ‘Kanaka walls’; built by South Sea Islander people who cleared the fields of volcanic rock well over a century ago.

From about 1880 people were brought here in the ‘blackbirding’ trade, mostly from present day Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, to provide labour in the cane fields.

These intrepid people left many marks on the local landscape. If you see an old farmhouse with a huge ancient mango tree flanking it, there’s a good chance South Sea Islanders lived there.

They tended to plant a tree everywhere they went; perhaps as a reminder of home.

A lesser-known rock landmark is Anthony’s Rest on The Hummock. It was built at short notice by South Sea Islander

If an indentured labourer died from hard work, disease or lack of care their host or employer simply got another one.

In a supreme irony, South Sea Islanders were later deemed to be unfair competition for white labour and forcibly repatriated, including many who had built lives here or were even born here.

Their descendants live on in Bundaberg, proud of their heritage. The simple fact is the Bundaberg Region wouldn’t be what it is today without their hard work and sacrifice.

Ross is a member of the Bundaberg & District Historical Museum, as well as an author, Rotarian and passionate community volunteer.

Lured aboard ships with promises of wealth, tricked or simply kidnapped, they came to Queensland as so-called indentured labourers, working essentially for their food and keep.

It was hard work. Many died. It was more dangerous to be an indentured labourer than a slave, because a slave had a monetary value.

labour so Governor Sir Anthony Musgrave could survey the coast on a visit in 1888.

Special thanks to Chris Spence, Coordinator of the Bundaberg & District Historical Museum.

DID YOU KNOW? The bell that assembles the children of Gooburrum State School today once signalled the start and finish times for South Sea Island indentured labourers at Rutherglen cane plantation on Moore Park Road.

Find it. .

Bundaberg & District Historical Museum Bundaberg Botanic Gardens on Mt Perry Road.

Open 7 days.

41 43

Mystery

subscribers beats a huge list that’s padded with abandoned emails and other non-openers

TAKING THE

2. Send enough emails that your message stays fresh in subscribers’ minds but not so many that they get fed up and unsubscribe

OUT OF

EMAIL MARKETING Long ago when the internet was still new and exciting for most of us, Electronic Direct Mail (EDM) developed as a means of driving sales, spreading information and keeping customers interested.

Those were simpler times before social media created avenues for non-stop access to your fans and followers.

Surprisingly, despite how different the web looks today, EDM remains a key element of most successful digital marketing campaigns.

Here’s why: • Almost 100% of consumers check their email once a day or more • Almost 70% of millennials report buying things because of an emailed promotion

BRIGHT FUTURES FOR

BEVAN MOLLER

EDM remains a key element of most successful digital marketing campaigns.

3. Use your name and the subscribers’ name (where relevant) to add a personal touch

• On average email marketing delivers 38x as much as you spend on it

4. Send your emails out at the dates and times when people are most likely to open them. Look at your stats and experiment with sending at different times to see how your results change.

Pretty impressive, right? Unfortunately, scammers and spammers tend to agree.

Email providers work hard to separate them from the things you actually want to see, making it crucial that your methods

This might seem complicated at first but it gets easier the more you do it and you can always refer to past results to see what worked best or didn’t work quite as well as planned.

are easy to distinguish from spam. I’d recommend these tips to start with: 1. Clear inactive subscribers from your mailing list regularly to bring up your open-rate. A shorter list of interested

Bevan is the owner and general manager of Catalyst Directions. www.catalystdirections.com.au

St Luke’s Anglican School

GRADUATES

percent perusing VET pathways and

were given to pursue their sporting and

a further 18 percent of our students

humanitarian interests.

transitioned directly into paid employment.

St Luke’s Anglican School leavers reported studying a broad range

We are proud of the achievements of

of degrees from medicine to IT,

our graduating students.

international relations, psychology,

Not only have they performed strongly

social work, tourism and secondary

in their studies, but they have also

education. Others attained jobs in fields

St Luke’s Anglican School is

shown strength of heart, mind and

successfully preparing Bundaberg

such as hospitality, logistics, dental

character; ready and willing to take their

hygiene and sport.

CRAIG MERRITT

students for bright futures.

place in a globalised community.

But don't just take my word for it.

It’s the quality of the future of our

According to a state-wide survey by

students that we are most excited

the Queensland Government, about 95 percent of St Luke's Year 12 graduates are engaged in further tertiary

about as a school. We’re committed to developing the whole child, and it’s a real reward when we see a St Luke’s Anglican

education, training or employment

School education giving our students a

in 2019. This result is well above the

head-start in life.

Queensland average.

The Next Step Post-School Destination Survey of all government, religious and independent school leavers shows that St Luke’s graduates have bright futures ahead of them.

Craig Merritt is the principal of St Luke’s Anglican School.

Students surveyed described St Luke’s

Some 65 percent are enrolled in a

teachers as “extremely supportive”

Bachelor’s degree at university, 13

and pointed to the opportunities they

www.stlukes.qld.edu.au

DELICIOl!u

H20 RESTAURANT AND BAR Enjoy sweeping views of the Gurnett River as you dine in style at H20 Restaurant and 13ar.

Just a short wall'l from the bustling main street of 13undaberg, choose a delectable dish from their gourmet menu and let your taste buds be tantalised.

HSG AT THE GARDENS

Food for the heart and soul. Treat yourself to a tasty meal at HSG at the Gardens and indulge in the local fresh flavours produced from the paddocl'l to your plate. A day or night out in the open air with twinl'lling lights overhead and plenty of space for the !'lids to run wild will have you escaping in this humble abode.

WATER ST KITCHEN

Let your mouth water with delicious combinations of gourmet flavours from Water Street l<itchen to curb your appetite. From crispy panl'lo chicl'len l'latsu to smol'led mackerel salad and divine potato, herb & mustard croquettes you'll leave with your belly full and taste buds tingling. Don't forget to treat yourself to some sweets afterwards. We recommend the ginger panna cotta that simply melts in your mouth.

WINDMILL CAFE BARGARA

Nestled a blocl'l from 13argara beach sits the picturesque Windmill Cafe 13argara, appropriately named as the cafe is situated in and around a beautifully refurbished blue windmill with peaceful gardens. Enjoy incredible coffee and delicious dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce, or stop in for homemade gelato (they even have a doggy gelato for your four-legged friends). Snap some foodie shots or get a photo in their lnsta-frame and #thewindmillbargara

MEETTJ!w ONE LITTLE FARM

A fixture in the 13undaberg culinary community, Anthony Rehbein runs 13unda Ginga and One Little Farm with his wife l<ate in the coastal regions of 13undaberg.

Their amazing family-grown produce is stocl'led by all the best of 13undaberg's stores and cafes.

The Rehbein's hand harvest, hand pacl'l and hand deliver ginger, turmeric, eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and micro herbs to cafe and marl'let doors daily ensuring optimum freshness, premium quality and the charming touch that can only be given by a 13undaberg farmer.

TINABERRIES

Throughout the strawberry season from June to October, visitTinaberries, horn e to the most beautiful Camarosa strawberries. During the season try your hand at picl'ling your very own punnet's worth of juicy strawberries or purchase some of their already pacl'led punnets. 13e sure to also try their mouth-watering home-made strawberry, passionfruit, mango and lychee ice-cream that is available all year 'round.

BUNDABERG RUM

DISTILLERY

Arrive into Bundaberg and head straight to Bundaberg Rum for a boozy-good time. Tatle a behind-the­ scenes tour of a true Australian icon and hear from the friendliest bunch of distillers around. If you've always dreamed of crafting your own rum, spend some time with an expert and get blending! You can even have a sample... or two!

QUENCH YOUR &ru�t KALKI MOON

DISTILLING & BREWING CO

OHANA CIDER HOUSE AND TROPICAL WINERY

Queensland's only dedicated cider house 'Ohana Cider House & Exotic Fruit Winery' has many epic ciders on tap, exotic fruit wines and liqueurs made from Queensland apples and local ingredients. Tatle a tour and come sample their incredible (and award-winning) products on a tasting paddle and tatle home an array of quirtly local ciders.

Is gin and tonic your drinR of choice?

Why not head to the family-owned distillery and brewery l(altli Moon and try their internatioally award-winning gin, vodtla and liqueurs? Enjoy a FREE tour and tasting with the owners and visit their cellar door for some incredible local drintls to gift your friends and family. They also have a brand new rum that will be available to sample and purchase soon!

HINTERLAND WINERIES

Rich with wineries, Childers is tlnown for its award-winning drintls.

Spend the day touring with friends stopping in at the ever-so-popular Hill of Promise Winery, a boutique winery with a strong Sicilian heritage. Meet the owners Mary & Terry for an engaging story of their rich multicultural history and a tipple. Next, matle your way to the beautiful vineyard of Vintner's Secret Vineyard. Enjoy an elegant tasting before choosing your favourite glass to s troll through the wortling winery.

BUNDABERG BREWED DRINKS

Uncover the trictls of the trade for crafting classic ginger beer and flavour-filled brews on an immersive tour and tasting session at the Bundaberg Brewed Drintls Barrel. Wander through the history of Bundaberg Brewed Drintls and learn how their delicious flavours are made before sampling the range and pacRaging up your favourites for the trip home.

Read, ht,H'e, at bundabergregion.org/taste

SWEET &eats

MACADAMIA$ AUSTRALIA

From roasted, vanilla infused, honey flavoured, chocolate coated and raw macadamias, this family-owned and operated Macadamia farm is a must­ visit for all macadamia lovers alihe. Go behind-the-scenes on a Bundy Food Tour or stop in to their on-site shop where you can purchase a local treat.

Calling all Foodies with a sweet tooth! While our cafes and restaurants are overflowing with fresh local produce, satisfy your taste buds with a delectable dessert from one of our many boutiques. Step inside Cha Cha Chocolate and discover a whole new world. Ranging from handmade fudge to novelty chocolate, you're sure to find something for everyone in this exquisite chocolate shop. While in town, you can't go past tasting our delicious home-made gelato from Nana's Pantry, Alowishus Delicious and Childers local favourite, Mammino's Gourmet Ice-cream.

PLANT

based

Dietary requirements and restrictions are no longer as rare as they used to be, and we hnow you want to enjoy your holiday without having to worry about where your next meal will come from. Offering up a variety of dietary requirements with permanent gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and vegan options throughout menus, our cafes and chefs are happily adjusting dishes to suit your needs. Be sure to visit HSG at the Gardens, Street Bean Coffee Bar and The Journey for a delicious wholesome meal or for some coffee and cahe.

BUNDYJJJJID Go beyond the farm-gates and meet passionate producers of the Bundaberg region, discovering the food and beverage gems of the nation's food bowl on a Bundy Food Tour. With farm fresh flavours ranging from avocados, forbidden figs, sweet potatoes, watermelon and zucchinis, our region is overflowing with tastiness and is rich with stories from generations of farming. Before eating your way through the A-Z of fresh regional produce, go behind-the-scenes and experience a true Taste of Bundaberg Experience.

'l),,,wnbad t9-!Af /Hfi.ie, IHA/)5 ďż˝ al

bundabergregion.org/taste

SOUL THIS FOOD BOWL HAS

high quality musicals and plays across a wide variety of genres.

MICHAEL DART

Behind the sunsets, beaches and

Director Di Wills says: “participants do not

amazing iconic food, one of the things

need to read music, and no formal training

that makes the Bundaberg Region so

in singing or music is required. It’s a great

special is the sheer amount of incredible

opportunity to make friends, make music

art and cultural experiences on offer.

and join the local music scene”.

Sneak a peek beneath the surface and you will see the beauty of the Bundaberg Arts scene at work.

Bundaberg is home to a range of creative organisations supporting arts and local artists. Headquartered in the city, Creative Regions is an arts production and arts management company that believes communities thrive through creativity, with a mission to produce arts and cultural experiences that are relevant to regional people, which add value to regional communities.

September 2019 saw the inaugural Bundaberg Art Prize awarded with more than 461 artworks entered by 250 artists, with many newcomers and most from the Bundaberg Region. Showcased in the Bundaberg CBD, the 2019 winning artwork was Outback Avatar by Gabrielle McDonald. 2020’s prize is sure to attract even more exceptional entries.

Turtles, arts, culture and indigenous heritage are showcased as part of the Milbi Festival (pictured), which was held for the first time in November 2019. Milbi is a

In 2020 Creative Regions is developing

Gurang word for turtle and the Festival

works to be presented, including an

marks the opening of the turtle season.

indigenous woman’s story Psychological

Milbi is a celebration of place, culture, art

Problems and youth-based program

and community - a celebration of where

Crash Box Theatre, as well as providing

we call home and what makes us unique.

economic opportunities for local artists to commercialise their works.

With history dating back to 1950, the Bundaberg Players Incorporated

This year there is a full program, beginning with Mama Mia in March/April, followed

by Allo Allo, A Midsummers Night Dream and Secret Bridesmaids Business, to name a few. The Bundaberg Players will also celebrate 50 years of the Youth Theatre (pictured), which will culminate in a special theatre presentation for two performances only at the Moncrief Theatre.

Artistic Director Rebecca Hutchins said: “we are overjoyed to be celebrating 50 years of youth theatre with former members, and also to see the return of the much-loved pantomime, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, which will sure to be a family favourite”.

With so much going on, it’s easy to make a connection with our local arts scene and experience a bit of what Bundaberg has to offer to nourish the soul. Make sure you get your fill.

Michael Dart is an actor, chairman of Creative Regions and member of the Playhouse Theatre.

What's on?

To keep up with what’s on, follow or subscribe to the following pages:

In addition, Creative Regions runs Pub

has an extensive cultural history in

www.creativeregions.com.au

Rock Choir where local singers come

the Bundaberg area. Performing from

together as a fun, social group to sing

The Playhouse Theatre, each year the

the songs they know and love. Creative

Bundaberg Players put on five to seven

www.playhousetheatre.org.au/ content

Sun protection for all

Seasons

needing to be sun smart year-round. Just

Regardless of the season or time of the

because you don’t feel hot, doesn’t mean

day, my family apply sunscreen and wear

you aren’t getting sunburnt.

their hats. We always have a shade tent in the back of the car at the ready. The more

The Cancer Council of Australia recommends sun protection when the UV (ultra violet) index is above three. To put DR CHARLES BLAIR

our bikes along the esplanade and find a shady spot under a tree, overlooking the mouth of the river. Sometimes we take a packed lunch and other times we enjoy

One of the benefits of ensuring your

UV index in Sydney and Melbourne rarely

children are sun smart year-round is that you’ll be helping them build lifelong habits that reduce their risk of developing skin

“The trade-off for a moderate climate is needing to be sunsmart all year-round."

fish and chips.

Bundaberg’s fantastic weather and laid back outdoor lifestyle is one of the

sunscreen you need to apply.

this in perspective, research shows the My favourite place to picnic with my young family is Elliott Heads. We ride

protective clothing you wear, the less

exceeds three in Winter. In Queensland the index is higher than three for most of the day and reaches a peak of about 6.5.

reasons my wife and I have chosen to

Depending on your skin type, it can take

raise our young family here. But the

as little as 20 minutes for your skin to

trade-off for a moderate climate is

burn at a UV index of six.

cancer later in life.

The Cancer Council’s Sun Smart app is a great resource to check the UV index and get further advice.

Dr Charles Blair (BAppSc, BMBS, FACRM) is the owner of Kaleidoscope Skin Cancer Clinic, opening in Bundaberg South in mid 2020. www.kaleidoscopeskinclinic.com.au

Find Your Art and

Soul

Jaaneman Art at Wattle Cottage

Book a relaxing, mixed media art workshop with world renowned artist Jane Marin in Alloway’s picturesque bushland.

Socialise. Paint. Rejuvenate.

Beginners to advanced.

Emergency Department WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US If you need a doctor after hours For fast access to specialist care Minimal wait time Quiet and comfortable waiting area Friendly, compassionate staff No out of pocket fees for DVA and Workcover patients FOR OPENING HOURS VISIT

thefriendlies.org.au/emergency

To find out what’s on, visit www.jaanemanart.com or phone 0421 674 124

TELEPHONE 4331 1777

19-23 Bingera Street, Bundaberg

and systems. Thinking it wouldn’t draw much interest, Leanne opened up the first project and was blown away when 50 people signed up. Project 14 has grown to two projects a year with hundreds of people tackling mindset and spaces.

It is something that could be considered a surprising business venture for a woman who confesses she is a naturally messy person.

“My Mum thinks this whole thing is very funny because as a child or teenager, you couldn’t get to the door from my bed, there was no path on the ground to walk, there was just stuff,” Leanne said.

Her desire for organisation came when she married Tim, and became responsible for an entire house.

“When I moved into his house, I felt what it was like to live somewhere that was really cluttered and had no organisation.

So I tried to learn about decluttering because of the negative impact it had on me,” she said.

“Now, it is much easier to be a tidy person because of the difference I feel. I don’t

Photo: Paul Beutel

B aker eanne L AT HOME WITH

WORDS BY NIKKI SORBELLO Sitting down with Leanne Baker in her home you would be forgiven for thinking the South African native has got it all together.

Everything is in its place – ordered, styled and uncluttered. Yet the house is still welcoming and homely. The way it looks is not just for show, but for the feeling of peace it brings.

“I started in 2012 sharing hints and tips I had learnt, while trying to figure out how to live a less-cluttered life. There were a lot of people online who shared their

tackle it anymore because it’s cluttered. I try and stay on top of it because I know it has a positive impact on myself and my family. We feel better and a lot calmer in the space when it is organised.”

TURNING THE PAGE More recently, Leanne has become known for her range of daily or weekly planners, another tool to help people organise their lives.

“In the first round of Project 14, I shared how I’ve used planners for years and the difference they had made in our life,” she said.

perfect spaces, but I couldn’t find out how

“I happened to say I would love to make

they got there – they never said how they

my own planner one day. A few nights

achieved it,” Leanne said.

later, I received an email from Amanda, who owned a printing company, offering

We feel better and a lot calmer in the space when it is organised.

The maths teacher, wife and mother-

to help and go into business with us.

Eight weeks later, we let people know the planners were coming.”

Starting out with an initial order of 100,

of-two is Bundaberg’s answer to Marie

It wasn’t until followers began to ask

the response was overwhelming and

Kondo or Mrs Hinch – a Queen of

Leanne to run a course specifically about

has continued to grow every year, with

organisation, decluttering and living a

what she had learnt that Project 14 was

thousands of women and men lining up

life of purpose. But it was something she

born – a 14-day online course where

to get their Leanne Baker Daily or

never sought out to be.

Leanne shares all her spaces, tips, tricks

LBD planners.

BALANCING HER PASSIONS Her openness, humble nature and willingness to help people has driven her popularity, success and what some may call a cult-like following. So it seems

“Teaching also keeps me grounded in the

family operates, and that easily keeps me

online world, because the kids couldn’t

going,” she said.

care less. They follow people with millions of followers. It is very humbling.”

Leanne leads the way in championing the 15-minute tidy up – her number 1 tip for

A LIFELONG COMMITMENT

decluttering and cleaning.

After years of explaining how she runs her

“I would say if you are starting out – start

home and organises her space, you would

“For six years in front of my desk, I had my

with one load of dishes and one load of

think it could get repetitive for Leanne.

retirement date of December 13, 2019.

Yet she insists there is always something

laundry a day because those things can

Tim and I worked to get to the point

new to share or explain.

only natural Leanne would move into the online space full time.

where we could afford for me to step away from teaching, but when the time came, I just couldn’t do it.”

Leanne said the idea of leaving her teaching job had her in tears – a sign that it was something she needed to keep doing.

“It’s more than being organised, it’s the mindset around it - that it is a long-term thing and you have put small steps in all the time.

“Hearing from people who have realised that and changed their situation,

“It’s lovely for me now because I know I

discovering all it takes is 15 minutes a day,

am doing it because I really want to do

consistently doing whatever it is we have

it, not out of necessity. I love teaching

set out to do - it lights me up and makes

maths, and I love working with the kids,

this worthwhile. Because it changes

and I teach beginning teachers now,

families, it doesn’t just change a home and

which is even more amazing,” she said.

the way it looks. It changes the way the

mount up very quickly,” she said.

“But our favourite is the 15-minute tidy up. If you consistently do 15-minute tidy ups, you will see a massive difference in your house. People underestimate what you can achieve in 15-minutes of uninterrupted cleaning.”

Try it!

Organising The Four of Us and Leanne Baker Daily

Calling Bundaberg Home Born in South Africa and having moved to Bundaberg when she was 12, Leanne said she is often asked why her family hadn’t moved to pursue opportunities in bigger cities. Especially considering they travel to Brisbane up to 15 times a year for business.

“We love where Bundaberg is situated. We love that it’s close to the beach. We love that the town is not too quiet but not too busy. We love the stores around here, and I think in the last few years, in particular, we have had some incredible shops and restaurants open up. I love the people here and the sense of community that is here, and we wouldn’t change it for the world."

53

Now, the News

Simpson Farms director Tony Reading with a biodegradable fruit tray liner, the local company is the first in Australia to use the recyclable trays.

Different shade of green FULLY BIODEGRADABLE AVOCADO TRAY LINER A FIRST IN AUSTRALIA Simpson Farms is the first avocado producer in Australia to implement a new fully-biodegradable tray liner for packing fruit to help the environment and reduce waste.

The family-owned Bundaberg Region business is the largest avocado producer in

Tony said he’d seen trays made from

After people purchase the fruit at the shop, the trays can go straight into the compacter along with the cardboard box and then go to be recycled.

Australia and a world leader in innovation.

The new biodegradable tray liners will replace up to 1.8 million plastic tray liners, filled with Shepard and Hass varieties grown from Simpson properties in the

that was with the packed product, and we’ve done this with Orora in Bundaberg and our tray liners,” Tony said.

paper and cardboard for other fruits and that’s when they approached Orora and made it happen for the avocados.

“It makes life easier for the stores, and it’s better for the environment and less of a footprint we are putting on the earth ,” he said.

“We do a large volume of fruit through here and it’s something we need to be conscious of.

“We do it to take away the waste factor

Goodwood area - packed and ready for

“We are taking the waste out of the

from fresh fruit.”

sale each season.

packed product by replacing the plastic trays with recyclable paper trays and after

Tony said the next step was the fruit

Director Tony Reading said the business always considered what sort of footprint

people purchase the fruit at the shop, the

making them biodegradable rather than

they were leaving on environment.

trays can go straight into the compacter

the plastic which is widely used now.

“We are aiming to reduce the waste

along with the cardboard box and then go

“We are hoping other producers will follow

through the business and one way to do

to be recycled.”

our suit right around Australia,” he said.

labels, and the team had been working on

In Brief SKIN CANCER CLINIC TO OPEN A new skin cancer care and treatment clinic on Barolin Street is set to open mid-year.

GP Surgeon Dr Charles Blair said the clinic would focus on the prevention, detection and management of skin cancer, and include services such as simple annual skin checks and wound care through to complex skin flaps and grafts. No referrals necessary.

PEST FISH TARGETED IN COMP An invasive species of freshwater fish called tilapia has been targeted during a family-friendly fishing event, aimed to also Smart lighting will be installed at Bargara, designed to reduce impact urban glow has on nesting turtles. Photo: Paul Beutel

Smart Lighting technology to be rolled out at Bargara

raise awareness of the devastating impacts the pest has on the environment. It is hoped the day will become an annual event after 131 pest fish were caught, weighing a total on 77.32kg.

Almost the entire Bargara Esplanade

That means at night the lights will

will be fitted with smart technology

BELLE EDEN WATERWAY MAKEOVER

automatically be reduced to a lower

that allows for greater control of

A traditional stormwater drain in Belle

level or 20 percent illumination.

Eden Estate, Ashfield will be transformed

lighting including dimming and motion sensor capabilities.

When the lights detect pedestrian movement, for instance by someone

into a thriving natural waterway. The innovative approach is a first for the Bundaberg Region which has involved

The installation of the smart pedestrian

walking along the pathway, they

lights, which is part of the Reducing

will automatically increase to 100

Urban Glow project, is expected to be

percent illumination while that

operational by mid-2020. The project

person walks by.

teams will develop a plan that to ‘treat’

Smart lighting technology will also be

and agricultural properties through natural

aims to reduce the negative impact lighting has on nesting turtles.

The best practice approach will see the installation of new turtle-friendly

rolled out in parks.

In a separate project under the

lighting between Schuhkraft Park and

Reducing Urban Glow banner, lighting

the roundabout on Burkitt Street,

was being reviewed at Oaks, Nielson,

which would also be responsive to

Crawford, Christensen and the Bargara

community needs.

Turtle parks.

a range of Council departments from planning, engineering and parks. The stormwater runoff from nearby residential processes, including the use of native plants to improve water quality before it reaches Baldwin Swamp.

ISIS MILL CANE RAILWAY EXPANSION The construction of a 39km cane rail

Oreco’s $20M expansion brings jobs

extension from Cordalba to Wallaville

More than 100 new jobs will be created

Amber Gilbert said the development

when the Oreco Group, Australia’s

The $15 million project is employing about

was expected to quadruple current

largest producer of garden enhancement

70 of the Mill’s workforce and providing

production of home garden and

work for local contractors. The project will

commercial horticultural products, and

provide railway access to the Mill from

support the introduction of new products,

sugar cane farms in the Wallaville and Gin

and increase the workforce to 140.

Gin areas.

products, completes a $20.8 million expansion at Childers.

Assistant to the managing director

For the latest news:

www.bundabergnow.com.au

by Isis Central Sugar Mill is on track for completion by the 2020 crushing start.

@bundabergnow

55

Crush. Verb2

Meaning: to subdue or triumph over your competition.

Running a business without promoting it is like winking at someone in the dark. Shine a light on your business with Crush Communications.

With more than 30 years combined experience, the team behind Crush Magazine are your leading local communications experts.

www.crushcommunications.com.au DIGITAL, SOCIAL AND TRADITIONAL MARKETING | PUBLIC AND MEDIA RELATIONS STRATEGIC PLANNING | ISSUES MANAGEMENT

Three legal documents YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

When it comes to estate planning there are three key documents to be aware of - your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney and Advance Health Directive.

Making your Will Your Will is critical to protecting the future financial health and wellbeing of

your behalf when you are unable to. That may include decisions about personal, financial or health matters.

If you become incapacitated and don’t have an EPA, a Tribunal or Court may appoint one, who may not be someone you would have chosen.

your family.

Advance Health Directive

If you die without a Will, your possessions

An Advance Health Directive is a set of instructions relating only to healthcare, if you become unable to make decisions due to illness or incapacity.

will be distributed according to government legislation and may not reflect what you would have wanted.

It is also important that your Will is drafted correctly and is kept up to date.

We regularly see Will Kits or home-made Wills that create ambiguity.

Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) An EPA allows for someone else to make personal and/or financial decisions on

It also contains relevant information such as special health conditions, allergies to medication and any religious, spiritual or cultural beliefs that could affect your care.

This can overlap with your EPA. An important distinction from an EPA is a doctor must fill out a certaint portion and it doesn’t allow a person to make

CHRIS PARKER

We regularly see Will Kits or homemade Wills that create ambiguity. decisions for you, but is a road map of your health wishes.

All circumstances are different, so seek legal advice on what is best for you.

Partners Kelly Dwyer, Chris Parker and Edwina Rowan lead the team at Charltons Lawyers, one of Bundaberg’s longest-serving law firms.

07 4152 2311

SUPERCHARGE YOUR SUPERANNUATION Superannuation is vital to save money for

amounts are available for a maximum of five years, and after this period will expire.

your retirement, but it is also one of the best long-term investments. Here’s how to

Super co-contributions

get more money into your super, all while obtaining that elusive tax deduction.

Contributions The Australian Government gives tax concessions when you make contributions

KAREN PEALL

to your super, but there are limits. The cap

your balance, but it lowers the overall

on concessional contributions (claiming

amount of tax you pay during the year –

a tax deduction) is currently $25,000,

it’s a win/win.

while non-concessional contributions (not claiming a tax deduction) is currently $100,000. It is important to note that the $25,000 limit includes superannuation from all sources, including the superannuation guarantee paid by your employer and any salary sacrificing into

Unused concessional contributions cap From July 1, 2018, if you have a total superannuation balance of less than $500,000 on June 30 of the previous financial year, you may be able to contribute more than the general

superannuation that you may be doing.

concessional contributions cap ($25,000)

Salary Sacrifice

contributions for any unused limits from

and make additional concessional

You may consider “sacrificing”

the previous year. The first year you will be

some of your before-tax salary into

entitled to carry forward unused amounts

superannuation. Not only does this boost

is the 2019–20 financial year. Unused

Extra Super? Yes please! Let the government top up your super. If you are eligible and make personal super contributions after tax during a financial year, the government will match your contribution with a super co-contribution.

Additional limits and eligibility conditions do apply though.

It is important to note that there are a range of taxation penalties if you exceed these caps. This advice is also general and doesn’t take into account your personal circustances, so you should discuss this topic with your professional in April or May of this year.

Karen Peall is the Executive Manager of Lyons Judge Bundaberg and has more than 20 years experience in accounts and taxation. www.lyonsjudge.com.au

57

OUR

GARDEN

“Water security isn’t the only issue causing farmers sleepless nights.”

NEEDS PROTECTION

If it sits in the fresh food isle of your local supermarket there is an even bet it came from Bundaberg. Tree crops, sugarcane and small crops – if you can eat it, we probably grow it.

It’s also a pretty handy area for producing some of the best seafood in the world.

But all of this didn’t happen by chance.

The Bundaberg Region is one based on generations of investment and ingenuity.

Our farmers have survived drought, flood and price fluctuations and always come out the other side stronger and more resilient.

One of the major investments in the Region was the Paradise Dam, completed in 2005 and built on the Burnett River.

It supported an explosion of crops,

TOM MARLAND particularly macadamias, avocados and citrus. However, in September 2019, it was announced the Dam had suffered significant damage during the 2011 and 2013 floods and the spill way was reduced by 5m, releasing 100,000 ML of fresh water and reducing capacity to 42 percent.

This has created great uncertainty, with the future of the dam unknown.

But water security isn’t the only issue causing farmers sleepless nights.

With the muddy waters of uncertainty swirling from Paradise Dam, the State Government implemented their Reef Protection regulations aimed at reducing

CO-HABITATION AT We thought 2019 was a positive year

Tom Marland is an agribusiness lawyer and blogger based in Bundaberg, Queensland. @Food For Thought, Thought For Food

Property Technology

The impact technology has on real estate

is shaping up to be even better. There

will become more and more visible.

are a few trends the experts are seeing

Property technology is a game-changer

come through, not just locally but in the

for how agents, brokerages and investors

greater region also.

There is a growing trend of independent

The health of the lower reaches of the Great Barrier Reef and the health of the Burnett and Kolan catchments can be seen for themselves – by the clean, fresh and voluminous seafood that the region produces year in and year out and the thriving sea life that abounds in the coastal reaches.

home and work

for real estate in the area, well 2020

Shared Co-Working Spaces

sediment and nutrient flows to the Great Barrier Reef. For a proud farming region that has already implemented world’s best practice farming, water use and fertiliser reduction methods - the timing could not have been worse and remains unjustified.

work, also impacting what buyers, sellers, EMMA BAUER

tenants and investors should expect.

Information is easily accessible at any time

business people opting to rent a

buying in with family or friends to live in

of day.

co-working space rather than bringing

the location they desire.

Short-Term Rentals

provide a flexible working space to

Growing Sense Of Community

More properties are being made available

meet with other like-minded people in a

I’ve noticed a shift in all types of real

professional environment, and is a more

estate (excluding industrial) towards

work home with them. The spaces

affordable option than renting a whole commercial space.

Co-Living

a sense of community. Estates are incorporating playgrounds and parks into their masterplan, shopping centres are

as short-term rentals. When managed correctly, this trend can generate higher revenue per square metre, but needs focus to keep properties rented due to higher turnover.

removing rentable space to add more

Emma Bauer is the owner of Coastline

common areas and lounges. The rise of

Realty. She also has experience in

finding that the younger generation are

co-working and co-living is also consistent

conveyancing and interior design.

opting to build smaller homes in the

with this theory. Next on the radar is the

trendy areas for better affordability, or

concept of micro-communities.

With the price of real estate going up in some very sought-after areas, we are

www.coastlinerealty.com.au

“Verandah, deck, porch…

SAME THING REALLY?”.

aesthetic variations dictated by the location, orientation, outlook, construction type and client preference. Insects a problem? A screened outdoor room allows the whole home to open up and be connected with the outdoor space. On the coast with strong winds making a traditional balcony uncomfortable? Why not recess the outdoor space deep into the building to provide more protection from the weather?

Privacy an issue? More solid balustrading, screening and incorporation of landscape can create a secluded oasis that doesn’t feel

...they say something about who we are and how we live. walled in. No neighbours for miles? Hey, why not sunken his and hers bathtubs with a view to the setting sun!

PHOTO CREDIT: “Gumly Gumly” – John Cullen

It was this casual conversation with fellow architects from the southern states about the difference between outside spaces, that brought me to the realisation that there are a lot of ways to describe an open-air structure attached to a building.

And no, they are not all the same thing!

For a dyed-in-the-wool Queenslander there may be an important distinction between a patio and a balcony, a terrace and a breezeway. These are the spaces we live in. Be that a bed in a sleepout during a hot summer night, morning coffee on the front verandah on a sunny winter’s morning, or a family barbeque on the back deck complete with festoon lights and mosquito coils.

Here in the Bundaberg Region we enjoy just about as perfect weather as you could ask for. With the most equable climate in the country (and 5th most equable in the world) we are in the enviable position where we can live outdoors year-round.

As an architect I’m always looking for the best ways to take best advantage of these natural benefits. My goal is to further enhance my clients’ opportunity to enjoy their spaces both indoor and out.

TOMAS O’MALLEY people. It provides shade to the internal rooms as well as providing external living space. Generally though, the way we have adapted our lifestyle since the early colonial times means the narrow space no longer meets our needs, particularly for entertaining large groups of friends and family. The more “room-shaped” deck (raised) or patio (on ground) meets these 21st century requirements.

Beyond the basic space itself, I generally consider a multitude of functional and

And it’s not only homes that can respond to the Queensland climate and context.

Many historic commercial buildings in Bundaberg feature beautiful colonnades and verandahs. Highlights include the General Post Office and many of the pubs and former banks. The School of Arts on Bourbong Street also has impressively high-ceilinged verandahs on both the ground and first floor. The advent of airconditioning saw commercial architecture in Queensland lose these elements to a large extent, yet in recent years this trend has begun to reverse with a greater focus on green architecture and providing a pleasant workplace environment.

So while the names are many and varied the common denominator is that in our pocket of Queensland these are our living and dining rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, even bathrooms. They are practical, attractive, and sustainable. Furthermore, they say something about who we are and how we live.

Architect Tomas O'Malley designs buildings that reflect Central Queensland's climate and lifestyle.

PHOTO CREDIT: “Electra” – Right Image Photography

Sometimes a classic verandah wrapping the outside of the building is the answer.

Tried and true, it’s the enduring image of Queensland architecture for most

59

&Locks

Lips

By Kiralee Honor THE PLACE HAIRDRESSING COLOURS Milk-chocolate is what every brunette wants right now. If you are a dark brunette, you can add a rich base tone to help add dimension. Soft lighting and baby lights on the mid-shaft, ends and framing your face will help you feel fresh and bright.

We are loving the latest remixes on rooted blonde. Add twinkly copper baby lights. Enjoy an extra few weeks between colours by adding baby lights to your lived in roots.

Rich copper colours all over will give you intense shine.

CUTS We can’t get enough of bangs and thankfully the fringe trend is sticking around in 2020.

Baby, curtain and blunt bangs were all spotted on the red carpet recently, but I feel the boho curtain fringe (pictured right) is going to be bigger than ever.

The lob is huge again this year but with a lot more layering and less structured. The shag is a good option for someone who doesn’t want to lose their length, but is keen to create height with shorter layers. The shag frames the face well, and is super versatile whether you have long, medium or short hair.

ACCESSORIES Accessories are a quick, low cost way to enhance your look, particularly when you’re time poor.

Scrunchies, scarves, bows, headbands — the options are endless. Expect to see more of them on your favourite celebs in the months to come.

Photo: Paul Beutel

The Place Hairdressing is your exclusive local stockist of the new ghd oracle Create an array of different curls and waves, from loose and beachy to tight, uniform locks, in one easy stroke.

76 BOURBONG STREET, BUNDABERG

PHOTO CREDIT: Nina Maree

By Selina Baldry MAKEUP AND BROW ARTIST

Baby, it’s cold outside! Your skin is dry, you feel pasty and you haven’t gotten your Vitamin D in what feels like forever.

You might think it’s time to stow away your SPF, but honey, no!

Any dermatologist or skin doctor worth their weight in retinoids will tell you, SPF is like a marriage: cheating is frowned upon, you’ve got to stick with it year round.

Fact: not using SPF on the daily, means you’re ageing real quick.

If you’re not wearing it to reduce your skin cancer risk (did you read Dr Blair’s column on page 49?) do it because haggard is never cute; because you don’t want to age rapidly faster than your GF that wears SPF 50; because UV radiation causes age spots, pigmentation and skin sag.

You may think that wearing a foundation with SPF is enough. You need four tablespoons of foundation for it to be

effective, whereas a full coverage application of sunscreen is around half a teaspoon.

Sunscreen has come a long way and is no longer the sticky, slimy, smelly stuff of your childhood.

Try Ultra Violette queen screen or clean screen for a barely there feel. Other faves are O-Cosmedics mineral pro and Go-To’s zincredible.

For a year round glow, ‘tan-in-a-can’ and preparation is key.

Do your shaving 24 hours prior, waxing two days prior.

Regularly exfoliate - my fave is the Le Tan activated charcoal exfoliating mitt. You can apply a barrier cream (any old moisturiser will do!) over super dry parts of your body - elbows and knees - to prevent clinging.

Then you’re good to go! I like to apply my tan with a mitt, leaving face, hands and feet until last. St Tropez self tan express mousse is a winner in my books. @selinabaldrymakeupartistry

61

H our ppy a H

at Bert’s Restaurant and Bar

It’s 5pm on Friday. Noisy birds screech as they take flight from the giant fig trees on Bourbong Street. As the sun sets, a little sign in the window of an unremarkable shopfront illuminates a single word: BERT’S. Past the brass bollards and over the threshold is a wonderous 1920s inspired cavern.

Bert’s is a bar that will transport you back to the roaring era of jazz, surrounded by sparkling glassware, art deco fixtures and luxurious leather lounges. Let your hair down, rest your weary feet and dream of where you’ve been and where you’re

headed. It’s a chance to embrace the pioneering spirit of the bar’s namesake, aviator Bert Hinkler.

A small but fine selection of worldly cuisines combine to create an exceptional menu of share plates. Quality local spirits are given equal prominence to imported drops, resulting in a beverage offering that could hold its own anywhere around the globe.

It’s an unfussy, stylish and fitting tribute to Bundaberg’s favourite son. Here’s to you Bert!

CRUSH

FRENCH PEAR MARTINI

BLUE MARGARITA

Bundaberg Spiced Rum, Stones Green Ginger Wine, Bundaberg Ginger Beer, Orange Juice & a Wedge of Lime.

Grey Goose LaPoire Vodka, St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur & Prosecco.

Sierra Silver Tequila, Lime Juice, Agave Syrup & De Kuyper Blue Curacao.

ESPRESSO DELLA CARAMELLO

FRENCH 75

KALKI ROSE

Kalki Moon Classic Vodka, Bundaberg Royal Liqueur Salted Caramel, Simple Syrup & Fresh Alowishus Espresso.

Kalki Moon Classic Gin, Lemon Juice, Sugar Syrup & Prosecco,

Kalki Moon Pink Gin Rose & Elderflower Liqueur, 23rd Street Distillery Rose Vodka & Prosecco.

Want it?

Join Bertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Discovery Club to receive a complimentary $10 voucher. www.discoverberts.com.au/club

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Today Avenell Brothers stock timeless classics like Waterford and Bunnykins, as well as the latest trends. The result is a curious homewares wonderland – a rabbit hole anyone would be glad to fall down.

An avid collector of fine art and vintage homewares (tartan picnic tin pictured), John said timing and intuition were crucial.

“The classics eb and flow, but you’ve got to know when the contemporary lines have peaked and stop at the top,” he said.

Wonderland In today’s ever-increasingly globalised economy, where retail giants buy and sell on scale, small family-owned businesses are something to be revered.

Nestled amongst the frangipani trees on Bourbong Street is a little shop with a big heart that has stood the test of time.

Avenell Brothers opened its doors in Bundaberg in 1898 and has seen its fair share of challenges; from wars, recessions and natural disasters to family successions and the rise of online shopping.

“I think they very much had my future in mind,” he said.

Change can be hard, but you’ve got to do it. It’s what helps a business evolve and keep going.

“It’s my passion in life. The reason Avenells is still here is because we are passionate about it … that passion has come through each generation.”

“I wasn’t happy in Melbourne, working as a pharmacist, and thought maybe I should go back and see if I can do something with the family business, rather than work for someone else for the rest of my life. I said I’d give it six months. That was in 1998.”

John said he and his parents put their stamp on the business because there had been significant cultural changes in Australia.

The founder’s great grandson, John Greenhalgh has been at the helm for more than 20 years and attributes the homewares store’s longevity to passion and reinvention.

“It was the era of everyone having Royal Doulton or Wedgwood dinner sets.

We moved back into those things that Avenells hadn’t stocked for maybe 50 years, and we did it very well,” he said.

“As a kid, I always wanted my own shop.

I used to cut old bits and pieces up and make new things to sell to my family for pocket money,” John said.

“Change can be hard, but you’ve got to do

John’s parents, Shirley and Ron, took on the family business in 1977 while also growing sugar cane in Sharon.

When asked what drives him, John is blunt and to the point.

it. It’s what helps a business evolve and keep going.

“Some of our growth has been intentional and some of it is serendipity. Sometimes things fall at your feet and you need to run with that.”

SHORTBREAD (PUSHER) BISCUITS 1. Beat 6ozs. butter and 3 ozs. icing sugar till white, add ½ lb. sifted flour, almond essence.

2. Mix thoroughly, turn out on floured board, knead smooth, put through a pusher.

NOTE: you can use a cookie press or wide nozzle on a piping bag in lieu of a pusher.

RECIPE CREDIT: CWA Bundaberg Branch Cookery Book, published in 1931.

Canadian Ruben SANDWICH

Traditionally made with Montreal Smoked Meat, the Ruben Sandwich is a staple that you will find on every menu in Canada. While you can’t get Montreal Smoked Meat in Australia, corned meat is a great substitute.

INGREDIENTS | SERVES 2

METHOD

• 4 slices rye bread (any bread is fine, but rye is traditional)

The best way to make a Ruben is to make four “open” sandwiches and then put two halves together to get two completed sandwiches. For a picnic-friendly sandwich, skip the oven. This sandwich is just as tasty cold.

• 400g corned meat, thinly sliced • 2/3 cup sauerkraut • 4 slices cheese of choice • American mustard • 2 pickles to serve

1 Heat an oven or grill to 180degrees 2 On a baking tray, place four slices of bread.

3 Spread mustard on all slices, then top each piece with 100g of meat, a quarter of the sauerkraut and a slice of cheese.

4 Place baking tray into the oven for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.

5 Remove from oven and gently put together two halves, and then repeat.

6 Cut and serve with a pickle.

Mike and Alana, the owners of Mollydookers Café and Bar at Apple Tree Creek, Childers can whip one up for you.

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Alex worked his way up through the dining venues at King Fisher Bay Resort, before joining Seabelle Restaurant.

“We kind of had to grow up a bit at that point - stop drinking as much, and iron our uniforms,” Alex joked.

It’s clear from Alex’s happy-go-lucky nature that he enjoys what he does.

Alex and Jen returned to Brisbane, where Jen worked in accounting firms and Alex continued to hone his craft at venues like Watt at Brisbane’s Powerhouse and the Normanby Hotel.

Photo:Paul Beutel

Alex said they “were doing everything to build the resume and earn money”, and never imagined they’d one day own their own restaurant.

Rising Water WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM

Jennifer Cameron’s smile immediately puts you at ease.

She has an understated elegance that is reflected across every aspect of Water Street Kitchen.

What looks like a simple corner store from the outside is a salubrious, modern

busy street feels like it’s another world away.

No detail is overlooked. Posies of white roses casually rest in sparkling glass vases.

Pear scented candles flicker gently.

Despite being one of the Bundaberg Region’s most celebrated restaurants, there is nothing pretentious here.

Their black and white menu is an eclectic mix of Asian flavours, Italian pastas and

owned by people that were elusive. They came and went,” Jen agreed.

You can’t help but like Alex and Jen, and admire their tenacity. In three short years, they’ve built Water Street Kitchen from the ground up.

After the birth of their daughter Sofie, they

his career as an electrical engineer to start

started talking about moving to Bundaberg.

a culinary apprenticeship.

“I wasn’t so sure,” Jen explained.

“I worked as a dishy at a small Brisbane

“Being from Bundy, I really did love the

pub while I was at uni and one night a chef quit, so I had to cook the fish. I liked it and they offered me a job,” Alex said.

city but we wanted to do something for ourselves.

“We put an offer in on a building; just

“When I told mum, she laughed at me

dipping our toes in to see what would

because I didn’t cook at all, but I hated

happen. It fell through, but by that point

what I was doing.”

we had the taste for it.”

Australian eatery.

As soon as you walk in the front door, the

“To us, at that age, restaurants were

The pair started looking for a venue

I wasn’t afraid of hard work, I was just afraid of it failing but you just keep working so it doesn’t fail.

in earnest.

“I remember sitting on the couch on the Gold Coast with Sofie, talking to my parents on speaker phone. Alex was all in, and Dad told me: ‘you’ve got to be all in too kiddo, because this is going to be

It was that fateful turn of events that

hard’,” Jen said.

eventually led Alex to Fraser Island where

“I wasn’t afraid of hard work, I was just

he met his wife, Jen. “I had been studying tourism and decided

afraid of it failing but you just keep working so it doesn’t fail.”

the kind of wholesome traditional English

to go Fraser to see if I liked the industry –

They began a mobile lunch service from

food your mum made when you were

I didn’t,” Jen laughed.

85 Water Street in Walkervale.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do with

The run down building previously housed

my life. There wasn’t a lot of phone

a catering business, and was being

It’s hard to believe that Head Chef Alex

reception over there so no one could ask

used for storage. The attached house

Cameron could barely cook two-minute

me. I just wanted to revel in that for a

had tenants and the kitchen was “an

noodles when he decided to throw away

little bit.”

equipment graveyard”.

young - only better! Every morsel is worth savouring.

“We’d put the food out through the back door, into our cars and deliver to corporate offices,” Alex said.

“When we first got to town, I thought we’d be delivering sandwiches for a few years.”

Jen said their Friday afternoon long lunches at Fairymead House were popular, but businesses started requesting a confidential meeting space.

“We’d set up a beautiful table at Water Street in a space that was pretty gross and dodgy, but they loved it.”

Jen paints a picture that resembles something like a scene from a Mob film. A rough warehouse setting, with a perfectly decorated table in the centre. White linen table cloth.

Polished cutlery and glassware.

Incredibly good red wine and hearty, yet refined food.

The restaurant has since been beautifully renovated and comfortably seats 50 people.

Jen admitted that being in business was exceptionally challenging.

“Alex knew how to run a kitchen and I knew how to work the front, but we’d never had to pay the bills before, employ staff or do the admin,” she said.

“People see success and associate luck with that because they don’t see the amount of failures that happened to make that success. Failure is the best lesson you can learn.

“The need to impress is what eggs me on, because our customers are

Love it?

often people I’ve grown up around.

It’s been nice getting to know the local farmers and using their produce on our menus. I just want it all to be beautiful.

“It’s intimidating, because you’re out there and on show in the public eye and subject to peoples’ opinions.

That’s probably the hardest part.”

Alex said they’d put all of their past experience, in what is a notoriously tough industry, to good use.

People see success and associate luck with that because they don’t see the amount of failures that happened to make that success.

ALEX'S

Mushroom Ravioli INGREDIENTS MAKES FILLING FOR 8-12 RAVIOLI • 1/2 cup dried porcini mushrooms, soaked in 1 cup boiling water for 30 minutes • 800g fresh button or cup mushrooms • 1/2 cup cream

“Watching owners and managers and seeing the things they did well and the things we didn’t want to repeat,” Alex said.

“We were treated like this, so we want to treat our staff that way. Our staff are the most valuable asset.”

No longer living onsite, Alex and Jen dare to dream.

“Now that we’ve finished renovating our home, it’s only natural to start thinking about what’s next,” Jen confessed.

“We don’t know how far Water Street is going to get. We see a need for expansion.

“We just need it to continue to grow the way it always has.

“We don’t really like standing still.”

Book online at www.waterstreetkitchen.com.au

• 3 sprigs thyme • Make 1kg of dough, using your favourite fresh pasta recipe

METHOD FILLING Drain the dried mushrooms after 30 mins, reserving the soaking liquid. In a pan cook the fresh mushrooms with a little oil and salt and pepper, stirring until it is dry. Add the dried mushrooms and the soaking liquid, cook the mixture, stirring until it is dry. Add cream and cook for 5 mins. Transfer it to a blender and buzz into a puree.

RAVIOLI Set yourself up a large area to work. Have a little bowl with water in it. Cut off a piece of dough. Cover the rest with the plastic wrap. Roll the piece of dough out until it is very thin. Use a circle cutter to cut out circles of dough, and place a 1/2 teaspoon to a teaspoon (depending on how large your circles are) in the centre of each circle.

Dip your finger into the water bowl and run it along the outside edge of the pasta circle. Place another circle onto the first to make the ravioli, making sure to press out any air bubbles. Set each ravioli aside on a floured surface as you make them.

To cook, boil in salty water for one minute after they float to the surface. Strain and serve.

We love to top the ravioli with some fresh goats cheese, parmesan, freshly cracked pepper, melted butter & toasted pine nuts.

67

Immerse yourself in the experience of Auditorium Music and theatre are being combined

style as well as their strong connection

with a dining and social experience in an

and stage presence make their

event never seen before in Bundaberg.

performances unforgettable.

The Moncrieff Theatre has created

August will see the return of former

Auditorium, a program that aims to reimagine the traditional and explore the universal language of music.

Having successfully launched the series in February with world musician Joseph Tawadros and a middle-eastern buffet, three more acts will follow in 2020 and take listeners on a journey of sound through otherworldly waves of ethereal guitar duets, sublime amalgamations of women and jazz and rapturous exotic rhythms.

As much as it is a performance to enjoy, guests are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to make a night of it - dress up, eat, drink and socialise.

In April, classical guitar duo Laura Fraticelli

Bundaberg local Mel Lathouras in the jazz trio Yas Queen, following a New Orleans buffet.

Yas Queen is described as a celebration of women in music and the yin to the yang of Brisbaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jazz scene. Mel Lathouras is joined by Paula Girvan and Tenille

the world around us in ways that are are

West and have been called an ultimate

poetic, moving and at times funny.

jazz party band, performing a stomping set of big band classics and popular jazz standards - interwoven with humorous

Driven by their eclectic backgrounds and European influences the members of

stage banter and storytelling.

MZAZA, playing accordion, violin, shah

Their female leads also have a penchant for

guitar, take and audience on a musical

Boswell and Andrew Sister-like harmonies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; delivered with sass and originality.

World Music band Mzaza will perform

kaman, percussion, double-bass and ride built on exotic rhythms that make you smile and melodies that tap into the beating heart of humankind.

Birth and Death of Stars in October, after a French-Balkan Buffet.

Event Tickets can be purchased at

The Birth and Death of Stars draws

www.artsbundaberg.com.au/theatre.

inspiration from philosophers and

General admission tickets are $65.

The close collaboration of the pair has

astronomers, leading listeners on a

Under 25s tickets are $20.

resulted in a unique form of musical

wonderful voyage through the ether to

Bar opens at 6pm for 7.30pm performance.

expression. Their emotional playing

explore what links us to each other and

Ticket price includes buffet.

and Johannes Moller will entertain after a European/Argentinian buffet.

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what’s on

SMOOTH LIKE If you have experienced live music in Bundaberg, you have probably come

Velvet

across an unlikely foursome – Smooth Velvet The pop and rock cover band have played just about every venue in Bundaberg and are regularly found at the Club and Melbourne hotels.

But if you encountered the band outside the pub scene you wouldn’t know it. By day, Smooth Velvet are working 9 to 5 as an IT specialist, Council compliance officer, nurse and diesel fuel injector

themed-gig nights.

which ranges from female pop anthems to Aussie pub and classic rock with a touch of country, metal and old school thrown in for good measure.

They clearly work their day jobs so they can let loose at the weekend – with their true passion shining through their music

The current line-up, who have been together for two years, bring together their eclectic music tastes in surprisingly

technician – very formal and serious jobs for a band that isn’t afraid to let their personalities shine in full costume at

well-meshed set lists. With a female lead singer in Amanda, the band is more versatile than the traditional all-male groups that make up the live-music scene.

@smoothvelvet

show time!

it’s

M ICE CREA AMMINO M E E F F O RGANIC C FOOD O CLASS

@paragon

@paragon

theatre

theatre& espressob

IC FILM S LIVE SHOWS

ar

PRIVAT

E HIRE

MAY 27-29

Bundaberg Show @Bundaberg Recreational Precinct Offering guinea pigs, caged birds, lapidary, fruit and vegetables, pickles, jams and jellies, cooking and sweets, handcraft, showrides and showbags and much more.

Country Shows are a great excuse to make a day of it and experience other parts of the wider Bundaberg Region.

APRIL 75 CHURCHILL ST. CHILDERS (Opposite IGA)

0478 066 724

info@paragontheatre.com.au

www.paragontheatre.com.au

11 Gayndah 18 Mt Perry

MAY 3 Eidsvold 8 Mundubbera 16 Biggenden 23 Childers 23 Monto 30 Gin Gin

MARCH

JULY

15

11

Bundaberg Health and Wellness Expo @Shalom Sports Stadium

Hands Of Time @Moncrieff Theatre

A showcase of guest speakers, lifestyle activities and health professionals.

21 Bones of Women Documentary Screening @Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

THE

DIARY

Commemorating 50 Years of Playhouse Youth Theatre with a celebration concert, specifically written to highlight the history of the Youth Theatre and the shows it has performed.

26 Childers Festival @Churchill Street, Childers

Premier of local filmmaker Sarah Trump’s unique documentary. Filmed at Oodies Café, two strangers tell their trauma to triumph story in front of a live but blindfolded audience.

300 food and market stalls line the historic streets of Childers in a Festival showcasing a diverse range of music and entertainment.

28

21-30

Nitro Circus Live @Bundaberg Recreational Precinct

1770 Art Show @Agnes Water Community Centre

AUGUST

Explosive, high-adrenaline action sports spectacular featuring FMX, BMX, Skate, Scooter and more.

Bringing together the best of the Regions artistic works to amaze, entertain and stimulate emotions and imagination

Oceanfest @Bundaberg Port Marina

APRIL

JUNE

13

12-21

Woodgate Easter Fair @Woodgate Beach

Taste Bundaberg Festival @Various Locations

Market stalls, food vendors, kids rides, car show and community displays make up the annual Woodgate Easter Fair.

Held each June the Taste Bundaberg Festival brings together various events to celebrate the amazing food and produce in the Bundaberg Region – a focal point of food tourism and community pride.

MAY 6-31

19-27

1770 Festival @Various Locations

Allo Allo @Playhouse Theatre

2020 Marks 250 years since Captain James Cook sailed into Bustard Bay. The Festival acknowledges the past and celebrates the Discovery Coast’s inclusive future.

Based on the hugely successful British television show of the same name, this uproarious comedy centres on café owner Rene, in occupied France.

22

Oceanfest Bundaberg focuses on quality, local seafood, local wines, local beers, entertainment and a range of attractions, displays, demonstrations and workshops.

SEPTEMBER 3-5 A Midsummer Night’s Dream @Playhouse Theatre The Shakespearean classic comedy of four young lovers who find themselves wrapped in the dream-like arms of an enchanted forest.

12 Burnett Heads Music Festival @Zunker Street, Burnett Heads A street party with music, street food, craft beers and entertainment.

All events are accurate at time of publication and may be weather permitting and subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Please confirm details online with event organisers.

71

There’s Nothing

Introduction time.

Holding Trace Back

Photo: Paul Beutel

For radio personality Tracey Sergiacomi, there is nothing she holds back. She is an open book, ready to talk about whatever life is throwing her way – new relationships, breakups, quitting smoking and even a surprise grandbaby.

But dominating the Bundaberg Region airwaves for the past decade was not something Trace ever considered as a job – not until she got a tap on the shoulder.

air within a minute,” Trace said.

“People like our show because we concentrate on the local stories and it is entertaining. We don’t concentrate on

and hardly ever got out of the house. She said ‘I listen to you every morning and you make me laugh’. So if I am on air and make just one person happy, then that is my job done.”

“I was working as a receptionist at

the big, heavy stories. We try and make

Hitz93.9 at the time. The boss just came

people laugh and forget about the sad

And while it wasn’t a career path she

in one day and said ‘How would you feel

stuff for a moment, to give them a bit of

pursued, she is made for the airways, as

like doing breakfast on Hitz’,” Trace said.

relief from it on their way to work.”

shown by her passion for her job and her willingness to be open about her life.

“They thought I could do it and that I had something, so I thought why not, I’ll give it a go.

“But I still vividly remember the first day I went on air. I ran out after the show,

I think people love radio because it is so immediate – we can have something on air within a minute.

vomited from the nerves, I was so sick I was shaking, I was sweating, and now I go in there and it is second nature.”

Trace has undoubtedly become a Bundaberg institution, keeping the Hitz Breakfast program fresh and engaging as her co-hosts come and go onto other opportunities. And while newspaper

“When I quit smoking, I only put it on radio and social media to make myself accountable. But then I had so many people message me that were going through the same thing, so I am glad I did it and helped some other people along

After more than a decade on air and celebrating her 48th birthday earlier in the year, there are no signs of Trace slowing down.

“I’ve been on the air for 11 years, getting up at 4am every day. I think there has to

readership and TV viewership continue to

come a time where I can’t do it anymore,

decline, radio audiences keep tuning in.

but at the moment I still love it,” she said.

“I think people love radio because it is so

“One story that stays with me is a

immediate – we can have something on

woman who said she suffered depression

the way,” she said.

And her surprise grandbaby?

“I was on a talk break when I got a phone call from the hospital to say my daughter was there having a baby – and we had no idea she was even pregnant – and I’ve shared all of that with Bundaberg,” she said.

Listen

6am-9am weekdays at 93.9fm

Dedicated to the prevention, early detection and treatment of skin cancer.

OPENING MID 2020 NO REFERRAL NECESSARY

53 Barolin Street, Bundaberg South www.kaleidoscopeskinclinic.com.au

Available at The Brewhouse in the Bundaberg CBD & good venues who support their local brewer.