Crush Magazine. Issue 12 Winter 2023. Sugar & Spice

&sugarspice

AND ALL THINGS NICE

BLEND YOUR OWN Bundy Rum

AT AUSTRALIA’S BEST DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE

THE ULTIMATE VIP EXPERIENCE

Journey deep into the beating heart of Australia’s most Awarded rum distillery. Learn the dark (and lighter) arts of rum making and take your tastebuds on a rum inspired adventure with the world’s first Blend Your Own Rum Experience. Pour rich rum reserves straight from the barrels and craft your very own unique rum concoction with a little help from our expert guides, who know their way around rum like no one else. Who knows, you may be the next Bundy Rum Master Blender in the making!

Not only will you take home two personalised bottles of your own handcrafted, tongue tested rum, we’ll even keep your secret recipe on file in case you want to reorder down the track - we reckon you will!

ON THE COVER AND CONTENTS: Crush Magazine Editors Larine Statham-Blair and Nikki Sorbello enjoy afternoon tea to toast the 12th issue of Crush Magazine. With thanks to One Little Farm, Water Street Kitchen, Vovo’s Boutique and Lonnie’s Chai Kitchen.

Photography by Paul Beutel.

Our Crush Magazine models are not paid professionals, just local people who love the Bundaberg Region.

UNTIL NEXT TIME

Taking a break from Crush Magazine

SUGAR & SPICE

… and all things nice

HAPPY HOUR

At Kalki Moon Distilling Company

TEA TIME

Tips for the perfect afternoon tea

PHOTO ESSAY

We turn the lens back on Paul Beutel

IN & OUT

Design advice for kitchen spaces

MEMORY LANE

A look at the past and future of Bundaberg’s old fire station

LIPS & LOCKS

Indulge in pamper time this Winter

DIARY

sweet sorrow PARTING IS SUCH

WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR

We hope you’ve enjoyed Crush Magazine as much as we’ve enjoyed bringing it to you!

It started as a pipe dream. I dismissed it as a fleeting idea, but it just wouldn’t budge. In the early hours of the morning, I’d sit breastfeeding my son, dreaming up ways to positively promote the Bundaberg Region. I’d lived all over the country and couldn’t understand why more people weren’t proud to call it home. The news journalist in me hated all the negative press that visitors were confronted with. I wanted holiday makers to stay longer, spend their money here, supporting businesses to create jobs for young people. I wanted investors to see the potential in Bundaberg. I wanted to boost community morale. Could some positive public relations really make a difference; even in a small way?

Everyone told me traditional media was dead and it couldn’t be done. So I said: ‘watch me!’ I telephoned an old journo mate of mine. One of the best in the business: Nikki Sorbello. I begged that marvellous unicorn (the kind of multiskilled professional that rarely exists) to leave her marketing job and come on a magical mystery tour with me. I warned her it might be a flop, but she took a punt on me and together we created Crush Magazine.

We enlisted some extraordinary expert help along the way: our photographer Paul Beutel and graphic designer Rowena Preddy, among others.

I’m deeply grateful to the unwavering businesses and organisations that have been with us for every issue: The Place Hairdressing, The Optical Superstore, Cha Cha Chocolate, Kalki Moon Distilling Company, Bundaberg

Distilling Company, One Little Farm, Charlton’s Lawyers, Lyons Judge, Bundaberg Tourism, Saskia, Hitz939, Kaleidoscope Skin Cancer Clinic and Macadamias Australia. They advertised and collaborated with us because they shared our values and wanted to be part of a positive local movement.

It’s our fellow small business owners who will understand better than most just how tough and trying the past few years have been. It’s why, for professional and personal reasons, Nikki and I have decided to take a break from Crush. It isn’t goodbye; just see you later.

We are 12 issues in (my lucky number), with an amazing following of loyal readers, and I like to think Crush Magazine has achieved at least some of what it set out to do. And that’s enough for me; for now at least. Stay tuned.

DREAM TEAM, past and present: Tara Jacobsen, Alice Thompson, Michael Dart, Diane Hurring, Wayne Hurring, Dani Ballinger, Rowena Preddy, Nikki Sorbello, Larine StathamBlair, Paul Beutel, Tomas O’Malley. Absent: Partriece Lyons, Ryan Pearce, David Wise, Ross Peddlesden, Selina Ferrais.

PHOTO CREDITS: Sabrina Lauriston

If there was ever a nursery rhyme to capture the essence of Bundaberg it must be the childrens’ classic, What All The World Is Made Of. You know the one that describes little girls as being made of ‘sugar and spice and all things nice’ and boys come from ‘snips and snails and puppy dogs’ tails?

Without entering a debate about gender stereotypes, our diverse Region is just like the rhyme: full of glorious contradictions. Industrial and natural. Savoury and sweet. Bush and beach. Sugar and salt. Drought and flood. Spicy and soothing. Thrill-seeking and relaxing. Alcohol and mixers. These paradoxes mesh perfectly together to

make the Bundaberg Region what it is today: a horticulture powerhouse with a growing agritourism sector and thriving manufacturing base.

The same juxtaposition exists between Crush Magazine’s co-founding editors. Nikki Sorbello is sweetness personified and Larine Statham-Blair loves to spice things up. As business partners, work wives and close friends, they strike the perfect balance.

It’s said that variety is the spice of life. So, in this, our 12th issue of Crush Magazine, we look at some of the things that make the Bundaberg Region such a nice place to live, work and holiday. We’ll help you spice up

WEBSITE

your life by discovering new flavours, hobbies or events that take you out of your comfort zone.

Pursue a new career. Sweeten your life by spending more time with your loved ones, doing the things you enjoy. Life is short. Sing the silly rhymes you enjoyed as a child. Eat the cake. Dance like no one is watching.

Take care,

TEAM CRUSH

Special thanks: Paul Beutel, Rowena Preddy, Tara Jacobsen, Wayne and Diane Hurring, Leanne Toy, Tomas O’Malley, Ross Peddlesden, Michael Dart.

669 431

Studio: Palace Arcade, 10/133 Bourbong St, Bundaberg

Postal Address: PO Box 2426, Bundaberg Qld 4670

www.crushmagazine.com.au crushbridal.com.au www.crushcommunications.com.au

#crushmagau #bundycrush #crushcomms #crushbridal #crushbridalinsider

embark

ON A WHIMSICAL JOURNEY FOR THE SENSES

The Bundaberg Region is a place that brings senses to life; no matter your age or stage of life.

The rural landscape is a kaleidoscope of colours; perfect for games of eye-spy. It’s an ideal family holiday destination, where everyone is welcome, including your furry friends. Enjoy slow romantic walks along sandy beaches or find a pretty park for a teddy bear tea party.

The meals you can create with the extensive array of fresh produce and seafood are limited only by your imagination. The lingering aromas of molasses and ginger open your airways. Chilli and lime tingle your tastebuds. There are household beverage brands that have put Bundaberg on the map, as well as up-and-comers to discover like HOTI, which won first and second

prize for best Kombucha at the 2022 Drink Easy Awards.

The farmers, cafes, food manufacturers, experiences and accommodation providers featured herein will have you singing a new tune in no time. The only other sounds you’ll hear are waves gently lapping at the shore, breeze in the trees, your dog snoring contently and your children giggling.

SUGAR

Welcome to sugar cane country, where rows upon rows of lush sugar cane and rich red soil greet you upon arrival, only to reappear in every glass poured of Australia’s favourite award-winning spirit. When in Bundaberg, it’s only right to experience the full journey from crop, to crystal, to world-class blends. Step back in time to the pioneering days of the Region’s sugarcane boom at Fairymead House and Sugar Museum. Admire the spectacle of a cane field fire at the annual Childers Festival, and sample top-shelf blends with a Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience.

SPICE

Quench your thirst and warm your tummy this Winter with a true-blue Aussie icon, Bundaberg Ginger Beer. The jewel of the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks family, it’s best mixed-up Bundy style by inverting the bottle upside down to see real brewed ginger pieces form a flavour-filled cloud. Pop the cap and sip the spice-filled brew. They have more than 50 years of brewing experience up their sleeves, expertly crafting flavour-filled drinks. Discover the secret to time-old family recipes at the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel. Add some zing to your foodie mustdo list and let native flavours burst

on the tip of your tongue with every bite at the Milbi Café, nestled within the Mon Repos Turtle Centre. This café combines bold flavours across a modern menu, dishing up a range of zesty flavours year-round. So, if the sound of creamy smashed avo served on local Pocket Storehouse organic sourdough, and sprinkled with fresh local herbs, Persian feta, old man saltbush, finger lime and pepperberry tickles your tastebuds, you’ll want to ready your fork.

ALL THINGS NICE

Our near perfect year-round conditions make the Bundaberg and North Burnett region the ideal place for a food lover’s paradise. Taste food next to where it has been grown, caught, distilled and let the flavours dance in your mouth to a symphony of freshness – that’s the Bundaberg Region food experience.

As our hardworking farmers are busy feeding the nation year-round, between May – August is when our region’s farm-gates are bursting at the seams

with all that’s best in season. Make the most of this peak producing period and fill you pockets with gold coins before venturing on a farm-gate trail starting with Macadamias Australia, One Little Farm, Alloway Farmers Market, The Lettuce Patch and Tinaberries, just to name a few. Enjoy feasting on our Region’s nicest and freshest flavours, spanning from a-z!

SNIPS & SNAKES

Bundaberg is a haven for quality time, belly laughs and just good old-fashioned family fun. There are many coffee bars and cafes nestled amongst our coastal streets, offering special menus for little folk to accommodate even the pickiest of eaters, great and small. If your family rise and shine at the break of dawn and is in need of sustenance, The Beach Mill right on the shores of Nielson Park Beach brews great coffee from 6am.

If your teenagers are known to hit the snooze button, The Windmill Café Bargara’s menu is jam packed with Insta worthy goodness.

In Bundaberg West there’s a zoo named Alexandra Park that’s home to a small but much-loved collection of Australian and exotic animals. Everything from frogs, lizards, turtles and snakes to parrots and emus, tamarins, wallabies, quolls and dingoes. And best of all, it won’t cost you a cent to visit.

WHALES & SNAILS

Every year, between July and October the pristine waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef play pitstop to the humpback whales that migrate the highway of ocean between the Antarctic and the tropics. The ideal training ground for young calves to learn essential survival skills and bond

with their mothers before taking on the big wide world of the open ocean!

Getting up close with these big beauties is always bucket-list worthy, and thanks to Australia Whale Experience, watching adventurous juveniles breach in between waves, or mothers and babies bond will have you and the whole family high fiving (or fin slapping if we’re talking whale) over this moment for years to come!

Not quite the cockle shells favoured by ‘Mary, Mary, quite contrary’ but at Grunske’s on the River Seafood Market and Restaurant you’ll find an impressive selection of fresh caught shellfish waiting to be devoured.

PUPPY-DOGS’ TAILS

Our four-legged friends are family, and these pup-approved venues are sure to keep tails wagging all day long as you explore the tastes of Bundaberg this Winter.

Step into Cha Cha Chocolate with your furry friend and meet Melanice

Jacobsen, who owns the Wonkainspired sweet store in Bundaberg CBD. Mum to a cheeky cocker spaniel, Melanice will warmly welcome you and your fur baby. Browse their range of delicious local goodies, teas, biscuits, vintage chocolate and a selection of US and UK sweets to satisfy the biggest chocoholic.

Kick back and enjoy a hot pizza and craft beer at Ballistic Bargara just a five minute walk up the street from Cha Cha Chocolate and slurp up a tasting paddle. Dogs are welcome in this industrial-style beerhouse where the beer is ice cold and there are even options for the non-beer drinkers.

Big4 Breeze Bargara, NRMA Woodgate Beach Holiday Park and Bundaberg East Cabin and Tourist Park are great options for those travelling with pooches. There are plenty of off-leash dog parks in the Region, as well as long meandering pathways. Be sure to stop in at the Windmill café when you’re done for a doggie gelato or puppy chino.

The retail shopping landscape has changed a lot over the past decade, but Bundaberg Health Foods owner Linda Tindale has continued to serve a loyal customer base by focusing on two key areas – good customer service, and a strong knowledge of what is being offered.

“We have great customers and over the years have focused on working with them. They often know what they want, and I’m trying to help provide that for them,” Linda said.

“In the health and wellness space, the ‘flavour of the month’ can change very quickly. People do a lot of research, so they are very aware of new options and new products. When you are a small store, you just have to focus on what customers need or what they are looking for. We are very much guided by our clients.”

Celebrating 13 years in business, Linda said Bundaberg Health Foods continued to stock a little bit of everything, from supplements and whole foods, skincare and eco-friendly household cleaners.

“At the moment immunity is a big area where people are looking for support, but general wellness, natural skincare and eco-friendly products are areas that are still growing,” Linda said.

It’s the focus on helping customers get what they need that has driven a loyal client base. The store was rewarded for their efforts last year, being named winner of the Best Retail category at the Business Excellence Awards in 2022.

BUNDABERG HEALTH FOODS

51E Woongarra Street, Bundaberg 07 4151 5187

bundaberghealthfoods.com.au

TREATS TEMPTING

Whether you believe dessert stomach is a real thing or not, you are going to need a bit of extra room when you visit Mollydookers Café and Bar, a Canadian-inspired fusion restaurant north of Childers.

After you have had your fill of wings, poutine, Reuben’s or pizza, dessert is something you cannot skip. Here you will find Canadian treats you won’t see elsewhere – some are family recipes that have been handed down through generations.

The menu features maple crème brulee and homemade waffles. But pride of place is the Xango (pronounced zanggo), a delicious flavoured-cheesecake filling rolled in a tortilla, fried until golden then sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. The filling flavours change weekly so there is always a new one to try.

In the Mollydookers handmade sweets

cabinet are more Canadian staples. Homemade pecan or raisin butter tarts are a must, as are the popular Nanaimo bars; a three-layer chocolate slice. Of course, you will also find some regular sweets too, from cheesecake and slices, to lemon meringues and brownies.

If you are lucky you can get a slice of their most traditional Canadian dessert. During their special Thanksgiving service in October, Mollydookers serve up two different flavoured pies made with family recipes – cherry and spiced pumpkin. Yum!

Taste it!

MOLLYDOOKERS CAFÉ &BAR

29399 Bruce Highway, Apple Tree Creek 07 4126 1114 mollydookerscafe.com

JULY 1 CANADA DAY

Celebrate with Mollydookers. Book in for food specials that only appear once a year like taster plates and pulled buffalo chicken. Hockey will be on the television. Canadian music will be playing on the stereo. Join in games about famous Canadians.

my sweeties SWEET

Sugar or Spice – you can’t go wrong with either when it comes to the creamy sweet potato. Incredibly versatile, with a nutrition profile that can’t be beat, this vibrant orange veggie is enjoyed year-round across the globe.

What you may not know is that Bundaberg is the biggest growing region for sweet potatoes in Australia. And our largest producer is Sweet Potatoes Australia.

General Manager Claire Maslen said the company was a joint venture between like-minded farming families – Greensill Farming and Holt Farming. They combined their resources to band together, realising they were stronger as one.

“We supply around 40,000 tonnes of sweet potatoes each year. That goes into everything from retail supermarkets to chips, frozen chips, restaurants, cafes and bars throughout Australia. We also export overseas to Asia, China, the Middle East and Europe,” Claire said.

Sweet potatoes are a great low starch alternative to white potatoes with twice the fibre and 30 per cent more Vitamin C.

“We have a big partnership now with Simplot, who make the Birds Eye Sweet Potato Chips, one of the only all-Australian grown sweet potato chips on the market.”

Sweet Potatoes Australia accounts for about one third of Australia’s sweet potato supply, about 43 million potatoes pulled from their Windermere and Qunaba farms. Gold sweet potatoes makes up about 95 per cent, with Hawaiian and red varieties making up the balance.

Demand for ‘sweeties’ as they are affectionately known, continues to grow, as more people discover the versatility of the vegetable, as well as the health benefits, which includes vitamins A and C and dietary fibre.

David Holt from Holt Farming and Peter Greensill from Greensill Farming lead Sweet Potatoes Australia.

TASTE FESTIVAL

You’ve probably tried a sweet potato chip or baked with a roast, but there are so many ways to make the humble sweet potato shine!

During the Taste Bundaberg Festival from August 4 – 13, Sweet Potatoes Australia have partnered with local chefs to highlight the vegetable’s diversity and deliciousness.

Joey Caruana from The Windmill will be at the Taste Festival Farmers Market, serving up Loaded Sweet Potatoes fresh from the farm. Piled high with your favourite toppings, this

Sweet Potato Soup

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons avocado oil, or olive oil

3 carrots, sliced

1 yellow onion

700 g sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped

1/4 teaspoon chilli flakes

One 125g serve of sweet potato gives you 4g of dietary fibre, 206 per cent RDI Vitamin A, 95 per cent RDI Vitamin C, 20 per cent RDI Vitamin B6 and 381mg of potassium. They also contain calcium, niacin and magnesium.

*RDI: Recommended Dietary Intake

is sure to keep you warm on a chilly Winter morning.

Sweet Potatoes Australia ambassadors and television celebrity chefs Dan and Steph Mulheron will be hosting Golden Hour at Woodgate Beach Hotel. Enjoy the Winter sun set with an entire menu featuring sweet potatoes. Food and drinks are included.

Full program details will be launched on June 26, with tickets on sale from July 10. For full event details and information, visit bundabergregionalcouncil. shorthandstories.com/taste/ index.html

1/4 teaspoon paprika

940 g vegetable broth, or more for thinner consistency

GARNISH

watercress

pistachios

coconut cream or yogurt

chilli flakes

cracked black pepper

METHOD

1. Heat the oil in a large stock pot on medium high heat. Add the diced onion and carrots and stir frequently for 6-8 minutes, or until the carrots have softened slightly.

2. Add the garlic, ginger, chilli flakes and paprika. Stir for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.

3. Add the diced sweet potato and vegetable broth. Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, add a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is fork tender.

4. Use a ladle to transfer the soup ingredients to a high-powered blender. Blend on high for one minute or until creamy. You can add more broth or water for a thinner consistency.

5. To serve, pour into a bowl and garnish with coconut cream or yogurt, chopped pistachios, chilli flakes, cracked black pepper and watercress.

Windmill Bubble and squeak, available at Windmill Café Bargara.

Try a Sweet Potatoes Australia loaded spud at the Taste Farmers Market.

DECADENT deligh t

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh donuts – fried to perfection, ready to be dusted with a sprinkling of sugar. It’s comforting and nostalgic, and this is the feeling you get when you walk into OMG! Decadent Donuts.

Light and airy, these soft donuts are fresh, made to order, with 12 flavoured sugars to choose from, made from Bundaberg Sugar and Australian fruits, spices and even vegetables.

Many customers have said they’re the best donuts they’ve ever tasted. You may not pick it when you take your first bite, but they are suitable for people with almost all food intolerances, being free from gluten, dairy, yeast, eggs, wheat, nuts, sulphites, with no artificial colours and flavours or preservatives and they are vegan.

Owners of OMG! Decadent Donuts

Bundaberg, Kelly and Peter decided to open up the Barolin Street shop front in 2023, after overwhelming response when they would make the donuts at festivals, markets and events in the region.

“I was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease and an egg and dairy intolerance in 2017 and found these donuts in 2019 at a Vegan market in Brisbane,” Kelly said. Blown away by the taste and texture, Kelly and Peter bought an OMG! Decadent Donuts licence due to it being an inclusive product and perhaps one of the most certified and accredited foods in Australia. It is endorsed and accredited by Coeliac Australia, Vegan Australia, Kosher Australia and Halal Authority of Australia.

“We buy the product, which is certified by the company, and every batch is tested in an independent laboratory to ensure there is no cross contamination,” Kelly said.

Taste it!

OMG! DECADENT DONUTS 12c Barolin Street, Bundaberg 0427 927 522

omgdecadentdonuts.com/bundaberg/

whistle WHILE YOU WORK

Have you ever watched a florist at work? There is a real art to it. The way they gently rub the stem of a rose between their palms to unfurl the petals. They carefully snip away leaves to make little adjustments to bouquets, emulating a Buddhist monk trimming his bonsai. They work with gold pollen on their fingertips and a gentle smile, as if silently humming Snow White’s ‘Whistle While You Work’ to themselves. And if they’re doing it right, it doesn’t look like work.

There’s a special little shop in Bundaberg East where you can enjoy a meal, surrounded by fresh flowers

and produce, while you watch a florist work their magic. One Little Farm is a produce shop, florist and fine food purveyor that’s expanding its café offering to include more seating and a bigger menu.

Owned by local farmers Kate and Anthony Rehbein, their flowers and produce are sourced locally. It’s why their crisp and vibrant salads are the freshest you’ll find in town. Their dinein meals range from lasagne, wraps and frittatas to cakes, slices and scones. Much of their menu is gluten free. Their fresh fruit smoothies are made to order, and their coffee is the Cat’s Pyjamas. They have quick grab options like

ginger spiced granola with yoghurt and berry compote.

As part of the Taste Bundaberg Festival, One Little Farm will be running flower farm tours and flower arranging workshops, accompanied by nibbles and bubbles.

It’s also a great place to find a unique piece of local art.

When you want to showcase the abundant, fresh, seasonal produce growing in the Bundaberg Region, you can’t go past a grazing board. Simple yet effective, they are the perfect option for any occasion.

They can be made even more indulgent with some premium macadamias and macadamia products, available from The Orchard Table and Visitor Experience at Macadamias Australia. It’s a marvellous third-generation family farm that celebrates everything there is to love about this golden native Australian nut.

ANTIPASTO, CHEESE AND CHARCUTERIE

Creating a traditional antipasto platter consists of meats, cheese, olives and vegetables along with a healthy serving of breads and crackers topped with fruits and nuts. But why not take it a step further and blur the lines between savoury and sweet.

Add vibrant colours with grilled zucchini and capsicum, pickled vegetables, freshly picked strawberries and blueberries and a handful of Lemon Myrtle and Honey Roasted macadamias. Marinate some feta with macadamia oil and herbs or include macadamia dips such as pesto, beetroot or sweet potato.

Have a go at making your own fruit and nut crackers with whole macadamias, macadamia pieces, dried fruits and seeds.

Top your cheeses, pates and terrines with roasted nuts. For added indulgence, macadamia honey balances out the sharp flavours of aged and blue cheeses.

For a twist on tradition, Macadamias Australia works with a local butcher to create their own meats made with macadamia pieces. Their creations include chilli macadamia chorizo, as well as honey, macadamia and black pepper cabanossi. Let’s not forget their smoky chicken, honey and macadamia kabana.

SWEETS

Dessert platters are always a winner. Macadamias and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Their Pure Indulgence chocolate range, sold exclusively at the Macadamias Australia Visitor Experience, is so good you needn’t complicate things. Enjoy the white chocolate or milk chocolate clusters just as they are. Purchase some decadent macadamia chocolate sauce to drizzle over your gelato or strawberries. Don’t forget the classic milk or dark chocolate coated macadamias from their signature range. You could even add pieces of The Orchard Table’s rich macadamia brownie to the plate.

Please Sir,

MAY I HAVE S’MORE?

S’mores. If you haven’t heard of them, you probably don’t spend enough time in the great outdoors. Loved by boy scouts and girl guides in Canada and the United States since the 1920s, they have enjoyed rising popularity in Australia in the past decade.

Also known as marshmallow toasts or graham cracker sandwiches, they are basically chocolate and toasted marshmallow sandwiched between two biscuits. As you guessed it, s’more is a contraction of the two words: some and more.

And that’s exactly what lovers of Bundaberg Distilling Company’s Campfire

Rum did last Winter. After the release of the first limited-edition Campfire Rum series in 2023 - like Oliver Twist, fans were left wanting more.

Bundaberg Rum Distillery Marketing and Experience Manager Duncan

Littler said the Burnt Butterscotch and Toasted Macadamia Campfire Rum they released last year flew off the shelves. “We sold our six months’ worth of stock in a month,” he said.

“In late May this year we released our next instalment in the Campfire series: Toasted Marshmallow with Rich Melted Chocolate and Biscuit and we are expecting it will be even more popular.

“As we enter the cooler months, there’s no better reason to get together and create those lasting memories that Bundaberg Rum is all about.”

Best served neat or with a dash of cola, under the stars, yarning with mates around the fire. What s’more could you want?

Available nationally, while stocks last.

spice OF LIFE

Humans have been using juniper berries for their gastronomic, medicinal, and ritual properties for thousands of years. They have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs and were used in Olympic events because Romans believed they increased stamina in athletes.

It seems the medieval herbalists were on to something. Today, the humble juniper bush remains lorded by botanists, but has also gained itself another worldwide mainstream following in gin enthusiasts. Juniper is the one compulsory ingredient that every gin has in common.

It’s what distillers do with the other botanicals that gives each gin a unique flavour profile. Up-and-coming distiller, Kalki Moon, knows how to perfectly balance savoury and sweet aromatics to take the trendy global gin scene by storm; winning a swag of international and Australian awards in just five short years.

Remarkably, they didn’t set out to be gin distillers. Kalki Moon started to produce gin, vodka and liqueurs out of necessity, due to Australian maturation laws for rum. Intent on being a small-batch rum distillery, in the meantime, they’ve busily created products like chilli vodka and collaborated with local soft drink makers

to create premix gin cans that celebrate flavours like ginger and elderflower.

Kalki Moon’s first true rum, released in April this year, has most certainly been worth waiting for.

Sip it

KALKI MOON DISTILLING COMPANY

Tours, tastings, cellar door, gin garden, events and functions. 22 Commercial Street, Bundaberg 07 4151 0396

www.kalkimoon.com

BurnettFour Rivers Series

Burnett is the first release of four in Kalki Moon’s premium Four Rivers Series of premium rums. It’s a single barrel release, producing just 400 bottles that will never be repeated. Double pot distilled, then aged for two years and eight months in a single French oak ex Australian sherry barrel. Released on April 1, it includes a decanter, custom display box and booklet. Stay tuned for the next three instalments.

WASTE NOT…

Kalki Moon’s castoff botanicals are turned into cosmetics or fed to local livestock.

First Rattoon

Handcrafted. Top shelf. Small Batch. This pure single rum has been fermented, distilled, aged, bottled and packaged all on-site at Kalki Moon Distillery. Crafted and blended using their finest aged rum, the First Rattoon was released on April 1 and is the most anticipated spirit in the Cane Farmer Series of spirits. It has been aged for 18 months in ex American Oak, before being finished in deluxe French Oak, ex Port Barrels for another 12 months.

TIP: First Rattoon is designed to be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Or add just a splash of your favourite mixer, as you don’t want to wash away its beautiful flavour.

Coffee Liqueur

Introducing Kalki Moon’s latest liqueur – coffee. Blended over two weeks to perfectly balance the flavours, this beautifully smooth vodka-based liqueur will leave a lingering taste that reflects the bitterness of coffee, sweetness of chocolate and the creaminess of hazelnut and vanilla.

Milk & Honey LAND OF

WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR

Leanne ‘Lonnie’ Toy’s micro artisan food business grew organically from her love of yoga and chai tea. She’d practised yoga for many years before becoming an instructor. She adapted her sister’s chai tea recipe to suit her own taste and began hosting an ‘Afternoon Tea by the Sea’ event at Kelly’s Beach in Bargara as part of Bundaberg’s annual Taste Festival.

But it was a transformative sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal in India with her teenage daughter in 2015 that prompted her to start making chai tea for others. “I loved seeing the chaiwallahs (tea-sellers) on the streets. Milk urns being delivered by bike, where the food source is close and fresh just like it is in Bundaberg,” Lonnie said.

There was a groundswell of love for her handmade teas and cakes.

Unexpectedly, requests started flowing in and Lonnie’s Chai Kitchen was born. For many years she juggled her yoga teaching with her love of cooking, but desire for her handmade treats took over. “Demand for comforting homecooked cakes increased during COVID19 and local cafes started asking me to stock their cake cabinets,” Lonnie said. “My Daintree and Caffeine-free Rooibos Organic chai teas are made to order, where I grind a blend of eight different whole spices.”

Proudly showcasing locally grown fruits, vegetables and nuts in all her baked products, Lonnie is now offering Sweet Treat Boxes for workplaces and social gatherings, as well as special occasion cakes; such as gin and tonic cake, lemon meringue layer cake, rocky road mud cake, rum and raisin chocolate cake, and whole orange almond syrup

cake. She offers a range of vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free cakes too.

HEALING

Legend has it that masala chai tea was created in India about 5000 years ago when a king ordered a healing spiced beverage. The king prescribed to Ayurveda, a native medicine system which uses yoga, massage, acupuncture, and herbal remedies. He believed the heat from ginger and black pepper stimulated digestion. The antiseptic properties in cloves were thought to help relieve pain. Cardamom was used as a mood elevator. Cinnamon supported circulation and respiratory function, and star anise freshened the breath.

TEA TIME

High tea, low tea, afternoon tea, tea party. No, according to the connoisseurs,

Lonnie’s Chai Kitchen: Orange Blossom and Toasted Macadamia Carrot Cake; Raspberry White Chocolate Blondies (GF); Lemon Drizzle Bars (GF/DF); Caramel Chocolate Macadamia Blondies (GF); Spiced Nuts; Caramel Chocolate Crack, Rooibos Organic Caffeine-free Chai Tea.

they aren’t all the same thing. It depends on who is partaking in it. The time of day. The height of the tables and chairs. And what food is being served. Is it accompanied by champagne?

Originating in England in the 1800s, there are very strict rules and etiquette to be applied. But with so much conflicting information online, how can we possibly keep with tradition?

We Australians are a relaxed lot. What we refer to in Australia as ‘high tea’ is actually more closely associated with afternoon tea. Sweet and savoury finger food on fine china, sipping tea and bubbles mid-afternoon to tide us over until dinner. The fact of the matter is, regardless of how you enjoy it –there’s always time for tea!

STEEPED IN HISTORY

Tea originated in China 5000 years ago when leaves fell from a tree, into an Emperor’s boiling water to create a refreshing drink. The cultivation and preparation of tea spread throughout China to be enjoyed by every societal class.

Favoured by Buddhists and Hindus, tea spread to Japan and India where it became a part of everyday life. In its heyday, the East India Company was arguably one of the most powerful commercial organisations the world has ever seen, holding the monopoly on British tea trade.

Today, tea is so strongly associated with English culture, royal court and aristocracy, few would suspect it was

a Portuguese princess that made it fashionable in Britain.

It was the duties charged on tea, opposed by the Boston Tea Party, that led to the American War of Independence in 1773, and the USA breaking away from Britain. It was the Americans that invented the tea bag! In the 18th century the popularity of tea led to widespread illegal smuggling. And yet, this same calming, warm beverage played a part in boosting morale during both World Wars.

In Australia, tea arrived with the First Fleet in 1788 and became an important, imported staple, enjoyed by everyone from convicts to officers, and servants to high society. Today it remains steeped in Australian folklore; thanks to the jolly swagman who sat ‘under the shade of a coolabah tree … and he sang as he watched and waited ‘til his billy boiled’.

Who will come a Waltzing Matilda with me?

The crockery settings pictured are family heirlooms belonging to Larine and Lonnie.

Thanks to One Little Farm and Water Street Kitchen for also supporting our cover shoot with flowers and furniture.

Enjoy Lonnie’s Chai Kitchen cakes at Leaf n Bean, Nanas Pantry and Beach Mill Bargara. Lonnie’s products are on the shelves at Cha Cha Chocolate, Nanas Pantry, One Little Farm, Lettuce Patch Hummock, Windmill Bargara. Order a Lonnie’s Chai tea at Indulge Cafe, Windmill Bargara, or Myrtille Bistro in Crow’s Nest.

Print

PERFECTION

Bold. Vibrant. Personalised. When it comes to showcasing your business, sporting group or club, this is what you want out of your tees and merchandise.

Jess Herbert has recently launched GC Supply Co, a garment printing business specialising in direct to garment (DTG) and direct to film (DTF) products, including shirts, hoodies, aprons, shorts and more. The printing technology

FOOD FOR SIGHT

Is sugar and spice all that nice or helpful for your eyesight? Perhaps not. Excess sugar consumption as we well know is definitely not good, and if it leads to diabetic retinopathy it can have quite a profound impact on your vision.

Another potentially devastating eye condition that has been studied in relation to nutritional input is macula degeneration.

But there are certain foods that have been researched and proven to be beneficial for your eyes, both for specific eye conditions and eye health in general. The last several years have seen a large increase in global research

ensures each print is crisp and bright. While they don’t offer a design service, their attention to detail and delivery of a quality product sets GC Supply Co apart. They are also the only Bundaberg supplier of DTG and DTF printing.

“When it comes to shirts there are so many styles and colours to choose from. We only use the highest-quality clothing to ensure the best results,

so if you have a style in mind we can provide some options,” Jess said.

“We are also able to customise the finish, with clients able to choose if they would like gloss or matte for their print.”

Unlike vinyl transfers made with home machines, DTG and DTF printing stands up against frequent wear and washing, making it ideal for business uniforms, merchandise or team gear. Better still, there are no set-up costs or minimum order requirements like screen printing, making it an ideal option for small runs.

“We are a proud local business, looking to support other local businesses. So we make sure we have a small range of shirts onsite so people can have a look at the quality and check the sizing. We have been amazed at the local support of our business so far,” Jess said.

into the positive benefits that eating well can have on your eyesight.

So, what should we be eating to help our eyes? Vitamins A, C and E are well-known to be in the good category and the following is not an exhaustive list but will you give you some ideas on what foods are generally considered to be good for your eye health.

Green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, fruits such as blueberries, tomatoes and oranges, zinc sources such as lean meats, cereals and beans are considered good. Omega-3 rich sources including salmon, tuna and flaxseed oil are also good. Dry eye, particularly the evaporative-type (mainly caused by blocked glands in the eyelids), is a common eye condition that could potentially improve from a change in diet toward more Omega-3 rich foods.

There is a huge array of information available on the internet on the topic

ANDREW CHRISTIANSEN

of eye health and diet. Of course, not all sources are reputable and a lot of supplements claiming to be helpful may just be a waste of your time and money. Before handing over your hard-earned money or embarking on some dietary fad that claims to give you eyesight like superman always consult a professional first. Your optometrist, dietitian, or medical practitioner should be able to advise you on food and eye health or at least point you in the right direction.

Andrew Christiansen

is the owner and an optometrist at The Optical Superstore Bundaberg.

home swee t home

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR

It’s no secret the local sugar industry is shrinking. There are endless media reports about growers turning to other crops or selling up. But why is it that sugar mills like Isis Central are standing tall at a time when countless others are collapsing? It’s the people and the culture.

Isis Central Sugar Mill (ICSM) remains

owned by the growers themselves. It’s the dedicated men and women who work there. It’s the community that supports it, and the strong, decisive leaders who continue to plan ahead for its future.

The simple truth is, collectively, they’re a tenacious lot; committed to making a go of it for their forebears, themselves

and future generations.

In the late 1800s there were as many as six mills in the Childers district. A small group of canefarmers formed a cooperative company and mortgaged their farms to finance a central mill. In 1894, ICSM issued its first company share certificates for a total of 25,000 shares, valued at £1 each and crushed its first

The latest intake of apprentices.

Ladies who drive locomotives.

The first meeting of growers to secure the Isis Central Sugar Mill.

cane in 1897. It would be 25 years of self sacrifice before those farmers would have their title deeds returned. As the other small mills in the district closed, ICSM absorbed their cane supply.

In more recent years, long-running mills like Bingera and Maryborough have closed. ICSM stepped in to help their neighbouring growers, investing millions-of-dollars in infrastructure to ensure they still have a mill to crush their cane. Effective lobbyists, ICSM’s successful applications for government funding over the years have been vindicated time and time again.

ICSM has continued to grow in throughput, footprint, size, efficiency and capability. ICSM crushed more than one million tonnes of sugarcane

MULTI-GENERATIONAL

Isis Central is much more than a mill. It’s a township and community, built around a mill. Complete with bowling green, the village has 21 cottages that the Mill’s employees live in.

IT Manager Martyn Ryan (pictured above) has resided in the same cottage his entire life. He remembers riding bikes and playing cricket with his neighbours. “You knew you couldn’t get into mischief, because it will get back to mum and dad,” he said.

One of the Mill’s longest serving employees, executive assistant Irene Hayton (pictured above), recalls Marty as a child; standing on his toes, peering through the window at his father who worked as the Mill’s accounts clerk.

Marty’s brother, Kelly is the Mill’s engineering manager. “It speaks volumes about the company and the opportunities they provide, that two brothers can get skilled jobs where they grew up, and progress up the ranks. You won’t find anyone that’s more Isis than me.”

Marty and Kelly’s ancestors started growing cane in the district in the 1880s and their uncles still farm that same original property. “Isis Central is like a warm blanket, with the smells and sounds of making sugar. Every year when the Mill starts up again, you know it’s all going to be okay.”

in 1995 – a milestone that would have been unimaginable when the Mill was built. In 2012 they crushed a record 1.5 million tonne. Last year, they managed 1.423 million tonnes in very trying conditions.

Always looking for ways to evolve and innovate, the Mill generates its own electricity and the excess energy is sent back to the grid. Mill mud, a bi-product of sugarcane, is sold to local farmers to fertilise their crops. The IT team has custom coded a system to monitor more than 300 kilometres of rail line and they’re using artificial intelligence to automatically recognise and record cane bin numbers. ICSM regularly win industry safety awards. They host community events that showcase

bygone sugar industry practices and contribute to local fundraising efforts, like donating $15,000 towards a bus for the Forest View residential care facility in Childers.

But it’s their commitment to future generations that sets them apart from other industrial businesses and makes them an employer of choice. ICSM employs about 170 people in the off season; of which about 40 are women, who are supported to challenge the norm in a male dominated sector. The workforce increases to 230 people during the crush. Every year, ICSM takes on a new tranche of apprentices, many of whom have worked their way up to be managers at the Mill today.

www.isissugar.com.au

The current Board of Directors.

Photo Credit: Book by John Kerr, Only Room For One.

Apprentice boilermaker Ana Kehl loved engineering at school, and enjoys seeing a project come together. She encourages other young women considering a trade to just “give it a go”.

earth SALT OF THE

WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR | PHOTO ESSAY BY PAUL BEUTEL

If a picture is worth a thousand words, Paul ‘bloody’ Beutel’s photography is poetry. He has a way with people; of putting them at ease to capture their true being.

He’s photographed everyone from prime ministers and royalty to brides, mill workers and kindy kids. At Crush, we joke that you aren’t a true ‘Bundabergian’ local until Paul has taken your picture at least twice. You’d be hard pressed to find a home in Bundaberg that doesn’t have at least one Paul Beutel image; framed and hung on a wall or on a press clipping in a drawer.

It’s impossible to imagine Paul without his camera. The two are symbiotic. Yet, his life almost headed down an entirely different path. Like his father and brother, after leaving school, he worked in sugar mills during the crushing season. He spent the off season working at sea for weeks at a time. Both jobs were hot, dirty, and physically demanding. On the occasional holiday, he enjoyed borrowing his older brother’s Pentax camera. With a young family to support, buying a quality camera to feed a hobby was not something he considered.

…continue reading on page 33.

RIGHT AT HOME:

Paul’s black and white ‘Mill Series’ was shot at Bingera and Millaquin Sugar Mills in 2014.

Fate brought Paul and the lens together, when he found a Konica Fs-1 motor drive camera on the ground at Elliott Heads. He placed a ‘found’ notice in the NewsMail and handed the camera into the local police station. It went unclaimed for six months, so police gifted it to Paul. In Paul’s own words, it was “a real camera” so he went to TAFE college at night for two years to learn how to use it. That’s where he met Ray Peek, the long-serving NewsMail photographer.

Able to roll with things quickly on the fly, Paul was told he was best suited to presswork. He started working alongside Ray at the NewsMail, where he honed his craft and set up their first darkroom. “I’ve had the fortune of going behind the scenes and doing things average people don’t get to experience,” Paul said.

“Like riding in an army helicopter or going behind police lines. It’s effectively being given the keys to the city,” Paul said.

If you ask the National Portrait Prize finalist which of his pictures is his favourite, the answer is shocking but says everything you need to know about Paul. It’s a black and white street shot of a worker in Buss Park, which he captured at the start of his course some 35 years ago. Quick with a joke and as down to earth as they come, he’s the same whether he’s photographing King Charles or a member of the local needlework group.

It’s clear, looking over Paul’s body of work, that he is anything but a ‘point and shoot snapper’. He sees things other people don’t. Like a tiger, stalking its prey, he patiently observes everything going on around him. He’s inquisitive. He has an eye for life; busy and still, which is why portraiture and food are among his favourite subjects.

Both artistically and technically, he is one of the most versatile photographers you will ever have the pleasure of working with.

niceties

Jewellery is the icing on the cake. The cherry on top. Particularly when it’s of good quality and speaks to your personal style. And that’s exactly what’s on offer at Warner’s Fine Jewellery on Bourbong Street.

It’s their skilful ability to combine old world styles with new trends that sets this family-owned boutique apart. As one of the Bundaberg Region’s only manufacturing jewellers, each unique piece meets the tough

Pearl necklace with antique vesta case

Sterling silver golf bangle.

Sterling silver fob chain Bow and coin pearl earrings

Matinee pearl necklace

Matching fresh water pearl stud earrings and ring Morganite and diamond drop earrings in rose gold

Diamond flower earrings

Ruby and diamond rings in 18ct yellow gold

Rose gold onyx and diamond ring Rose gold signet ring

Tormaline and baroque pearl necklace Pink pearl necklace

Make a statement. Show off your style. Stand out. A beautiful bag can do it all, and there are none more beautiful or likely to make a statement than a clutch from Willow and Hyde.

Hand painted and sewn by Childers creator Chloe Johnson, they are as much a piece of art as they are a fashion statement.

“I had seen the idea around and was looking for a creative outlet and thought this would be something I could make myself. Interest really snowballed quite organically once I started making them,” Chloe said.

Starting at markets, then launching her website, Chloe has continued to grow and innovate, also making earrings, keychains and hair accessories, and stocking Willow wallets and hand fans, all available to purchase on her website.

RENTAL sweet spot

There has certainly been a lot of spice in the real estate industry over the past month, with new rental reforms being introduced to restrict rent increases to once per year. Tenants would suggest it is about time, where some landlords feel this is an attack from the State Government, at a time when costs like interest rates, insurances and maintenance continue to increase.

The rental market has been incredibly challenging for tenants in recent years. And, as a boutique managing agency, we have come to realise that fair game across the board for both tenants and landlords will deliver the most satisfying

As popular as her beautiful clutches is Brush and Bubbles in the Bush – a take on the traditional ‘paint and sip’ event. Guests hand-paint their own canvas which is turned into a one-ofa-kind clutch.

CHARMING clu tches FINDING THE

“I really wanted to share the experience of creating without telling people exactly what to do. It’s very organic and intuitive so guests can just have fun with it, without any pressure or self-doubt about what they are creating,” she said.

Keep an eye on the website for upcoming workshop dates, or Chloe will also travel for private bookings. DIY clutch kits are also available to purchase online.

outcome for all parties. Tenants accept a lease for a landlord’s property and must respect that opportunity. The landlord has a duty of care to maintain the property, understanding it will be the tenant’s home for the duration of the lease. No one wins out of greed or disrespect. Establishing a great relationship between all parties will be what relieves the market of unnecessary pressure and helps retain tenants in property.

In the event of rent increases, we encourage landlords to be guided by their managing agent, to understand the current climate and where an increase is valid. We can’t stress enough that the landlord should ensure their property meets the minimum housing standards and all reported maintenance issues are acted upon efficiently. This will ensure the right balance is met. It encourages good tenants to stay on for longer periods and care for the property. Landlords

will receive consistent rental income to upkeep any mortgage commitments.

We trust our rental market will remain challenging for some time yet and we hope that investors continue to see value in our Region, following through with the purchase of investment properties. There is still a shortage of available properties to rent, based on the tenant applications our agency receives and the daily inquiry. We are one of many agencies in the region who do our utmost to secure housing for tenants.

With more than ten years’ experience in local real estate, Ryan is the cofounder of Weekes Property Co – a realtor agency designed to be different.

SPRINKLE SOME magic

Tucked away in Bundaberg’s finest boutique is a serene little nook, aglow with fairy lights and stylish lamps. It’s filled with whimsical treasures to make any new mum swoon.

The range of baby gifts at Saskia Home Gifts You has grown recently, as the store’s owner excitedly prepares to become a grandmother.

Saskia DePaoli has sourced beautiful nursery items from across Australia and overseas. Quality wooden toys

and organic linen throws. Teethers, teddies, plush swaddles and books. Bibs, rattan clothes baskets and special keepsakes.

Awaiting the arrival of new life isn’t just about showering the baby; it’s as much about celebrating the mum-to-be. She’s bound to be spending more time at home when the baby arrives, so why not help enhance her space with a wall hanging, some Bison crockery from Canberra, a teacup or scented candle?

Make her day with a Louenhide overnight bag for the hospital, some divine hand cream or a loose flowing dress for when she takes the baby home.

Shop it

SASKIA – HOME GIFTS YOU

Millaquin Markets

Shop 4/133 Bargara Road, East Bundaberg 07 4151 1873

Saskia.net.au

design

Truly great interior design is not just something that looks good on paper, but something you feel. It’s quality materials and workmanship. It’s unique styling. Its precision workmanship and attention to detail.

Whether renovating or designing a new build, being able to experience how it feels when an entire home comes together seamlessly is what Adina

TO MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME

Designed Interiors has accomplished with its new Designrooms.

Andrew and Julie Murchie opened the new space in April.

“We didn’t want it to be another kitchen and bathroom showroom. We wanted people to walk in and feel like they are at home. They can look at the kitchen and bathroom, but also think about bedrooms, home offices, lounge

and dining rooms. We are able to show clients how to incorporate custommade furniture pieces for the whole home, creating a beautifully styled space designed to suit their lifestyle”

Julie said.

“By having this all in our Designrooms, it shows how to blend your whole house in a seamless way, to carry one theme right through your home.”

The Designrooms have been decorated with artwork and soft furnishings for a completed look, all of which are for sale.

“A number of our custom-made furniture pieces are also for sale, direct from the Designrooms floor. Should these pieces find their forever home, it will allow us to design something new and keep our showroom aligned with current trends,” Julie said.

While cost of living pressures continue to bite, Julie said there were many clever ways to make a home beautiful on all budgets. The staff at Adina Designed Interiors can provide advice about what is achievable with the budget you have, and suggest options to consider in providing design solutions.

Andrew and Julie took over Murchie Constructions when Andrew’s father, John, retired in 2005. “Murchie Constructions had always had a cabinet making division, since the late 1960s, but most people didn’t realise the company could do standalone cabinetmaking. Consequently, we decided to separate the companies and give Adina its own identity,” Julie said.

“Adina has really established itself in the commercial world as a stand-alone commercial cabinet maker and shop and office fitter. However, up until now we haven’t really marketed the residential work that Adina does.

“With the launch of the Adina Designrooms, we are excited to showcase our residential work.”

To assist with decision making, Adina have a staff of interior designers who look at the function of spaces, can troubleshoot potential problems and bring in elements to maximise the potential and ambience of a room.

“Our designers can help with colours and finishes, but can also provide full cabinetry design and structural modifications such as moving walls or reconfiguring spaces if you are renovating,” Julie said.

“All of our cabinet makers are on site, making the furniture in our workshop, so our designers communicate with them directly. When the designers are detailing the joinery, they can check and confirm their designs are workable, using the technical expertise of the

cabinet makers to help inform the design,” Julie said.

“We can even have the cabinet makers come in and talk directly to the clients if necessary. And if structural building work is required, we have the expertise of Murchie Constructions’ carpenters right next door. There’s a really good relationship there, all working together to deliver the perfect cabinetry solution.”

KITCHEN basics

By Tomas O’Malley

makes movement between tasks easy and comfortable. The classic ‘work triangle’, linking food storage, cooking area and preparation/cleaning area remains a tried-and-true approach, particularly in traditional kitchen layouts. Galley kitchens tend to require more of a zig-zag approach, while some large kitchens with central islands will demand multiple workflow paths that operate at different times. Ergonomic design is key to creating a safe kitchen space. As well as layouts that avoid excess movement (particularly with hot or wet items) choosing the right materials and finishes, appropriate heights for benches and cupboards, and good lighting all contribute to a healthy environment.

Appliances are another area where personal preference is important, but many people don’t consider all options. Gas cooktops were until recently the gold standard, however due to health and environmental concerns there is a concerted move toward induction cooktops (with some governments planning to phase out the sale of gas appliances completely). Rangehoods can be an afterthought, however a noisy, ineffective exhaust will be a constant annoyance. I always recommend that clients spend a bit more on a quality rangehood, preferably one with a remote motor which makes a huge difference to the noise within the kitchen.

Kitchen design plays an important role in setting the tone for the entire house. It’s not just about aesthetics but also about functionality, ergonomics, and efficiency. A good kitchen design may not ever be immediately noticeable, but a badly designed kitchen will always result in frustration.

I always look to start with a layout that

The specifics of storage are often under-appreciated when thinking about kitchens. While almost everyone will say they want ‘lots of storage’, the tendency is to just put drawers everywhere resulting in a lot of the same type of storage spaces. However, there are always odd shaped or sized appliances, trays and bowls that can be better housed in cupboards. Details like vertical dividers to hold baking sheets and chopping boards upright, pull-out bins, and built in steps in the kickboards make accessing all items as easy as possible.

The importance of good kitchen design cannot be overstated. It is a critical component of creating a safe, healthy, and functional environment that encourages healthy home cooking and improves the overall appeal of your house. Gadgets and aesthetics can be beguiling, but if the bones of a kitchen aren’t good, no amount of bling will make it an enjoyable place to be. Get the basics right, and a kitchen should be seamless within the operation of a household, whether it’s grabbing a bowl of cereal, or preparing a Christmas dinner while entertaining the whole extended family.

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

Right Image Photography

Paul Beutel

John Cullen

seasonal SHAKE UP

By Jade McKenzie

Keep your hard furnishings the same, but rotate out bed linen, lounge throws and cushions. In Autumn, exchange the lightweight creams and cool blues you enjoyed in Summer for snuggly, warm caramel and nutmeg hues.

can lend themselves to a year-round aesthetic that flexes with the seasons. Bamboo, timber and rattan pieces that are synonymous with the coastal vibe can be paired with almost any colour palette.

When Spring arrives, swap on-trend dried flower arrangements for greenery. Our online store has a fantastic range of faux indoor coastal plants to choose from.

Shop it

endlessweekend.co

thepropertystylingco.com

0439 605 482

Whale Canvas

Faux Palm Tree

KOS Dome Pendant

ANDROS Bedside Table

Tropical Print

ANDROS Queen Bed Head

MILOS Buffet

CHIOS Trio of Pots

PAROS Dining Chair

houses SAFE AS

By the early 1880 insurance companies in the fledgling town of Bundaberg had had enough of fires, and so political pressure was applied to establish a local fire service. In early 1884 that service began, controlled by a local Board of council nominees and insurance industry representatives that would go on to serve the community for more than 100 years.

The service started small, with 29 volunteer officers and a hand-operated pump, until a state-of-the-art horsedrawn and steam-operated pump was purchased in 1886. There being no reticulated water system, several 2000-gallon tanks were set up around town to supply water for firefighting. The early machines were housed in a shed on Post Office Lane, but by 1892 Bundaberg’s first fire station was built in Woongarra Street at the rear of the present Civic Centre. The facility also housed a bell tower and the number of

rings would tell firefighters which part of town to head to in case of a fire.

By 1918 a new facility was needed and a new station was built on Bourbong Street on the site of the present Council offices next to Buss Park. This facility included some technical breakthroughs, including the first system of notification of fires by telephone and in 1923 entry into the world of motorised fire engines with the purchase of a Ford chassis to carry an existing pump.

By the 1930s this facility was deemed inadequate, and a new brick building arose on the same site. It recognised the gradual change from volunteer to professional firefighters, including sleeping accommodation for two officers and permanent quarters for the Chief Officer.

This building served the community for the next 25 years, but by the ‘50s it could no longer house the motorised

fire engines that the service needed, and by 1958 another new station was built in Woongarra Street, complete with a triple engine bay, rooms to house professional firefighters, training facilities, accommodation for the Chief Officer and his family and a Board Room. Not everything was new. Retired Chief Station Officer Alan Fraser started there in 1962 and worked with the 1928 Dennis fire engine which was still in service; open cab and all.

The station continued to evolve for 70 years. The need to fight multistory fires necessitated the purchase of new types of equipment, and the advent of better vehicles. It also marked the end of the era of brass hose fittings and picturesque brass helmets, as lighter and better alternatives became available.

The really big change for many of the firefighters came in the late ‘80s with the end of the local Board, and the advent of the Queensland Fire Service. As the

firies tell it, getting hold of new modern equipment became easier, but they felt the loss of their local system of management, with orders now coming from Brisbane and Maryborough.

The 2013 floods marked the beginning of the end for the Woongarra Street station. It was the last CBD station. The fire service now has a new high-tech home in Thabeban, but the old building lives on and is about to begin its new life as a community facility.

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

arms off corpses to fit into coffins because of rigor mortis!

It is tales like this that shape our community and help build connections. Many triumphs, tragedies and travails were shared at the old Woongarra Street fire station in its time. Mateship and camaraderie bloomed. And now through a wonderful collaboration led by Bridges Health and Community Care, the fire station will once more be a place for tales, stories and collaboration through art and friendship.

Bridges is known for delivering quality mental health services across the Wide Bay, Burnett and Central Queensland for more than 25 years. Now they are extending their programs to include arts and cultural-led wellbeing that aims to improve the health of

the community through social

The grand vision is to renovate the fire station, respecting its architecture and history while building programs and projects

“We encourage the community to join us on our journey of creating this space for the community to come together, with workshop and performance spaces, a café, studio, residency and training programs all part of the mix,” Bridges CEO Sharon Sarah said. The relationship between the arts and mental health is well established, applying creative practices, like painting, dancing and role play as evidencebased interventions for mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. There is also growing evidence that the arts can be used to sustain a sense of wellness. In other words, experiencing, viewing and practising the arts can help build emotional capacity.

Bridges has started a Friends of the Fire Station Facebook group, where people can continue to share stories and follow the precinct’s development.

Michael Dart is an actor, director and member of Bundaberg’s Playhouse Theatre.

Central Station was erected in 1917.

Photo credit: The Burnett and Isis Pictorial

The old Bundaberg Fire Station, Bourbong St, 1938.

Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library

excellence CELEBRATING

Mark your calendars for September because Bundaberg will once again celebrate its great local business at the annual Business Excellence Awards, run by the Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce.

This year marks the 10th year of the awards, and the Bundaberg business community will be celebrating in style with all the glitz and glamour of Tinsel Town.

Recently the Chamber has been involved in a ‘Best of Bundy’ campaign, which reinforces just how many fantastic businesses there are in the Bundaberg Region, across such a diverse range of sectors. As a business community, we punch well above our weight, which suggests the competition is likely to be fierce for the 2023 Business Excellence Awards.

Building on this strong history, the

awards will be reinvigorated with new categories and an application process that is more streamlined.

The Chamber committee had taken on feedback from previous applicants, making it easier for businesses of all shapes and sizes to enter, without taking days out of their businesses to do so.

The new questions will help level the playing field, because it’s not about the size of the business that wins, it’s about sustainability, innovation and dedication to customer service and the community that matter.

The categories this year have also been realigned, to focus more on what the business does, how they do it and the success they have had.

Award nominations will open midyear on the Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce website www.bundabergchamber.com.au

The award categories for the 2023 Business Excellence Awards are:

• New Business of the Year

• Championing Health and Safety

• Service Excellence

• Community Service Excellence

• Embracing Innovation

• Outstanding Growth

• Promoting Sustainability

• Human Resources Excellence

• Micro Business of the Year

• Small Business of the Year

• Medium Business of the Year

• Large Business of the Year

Tim Sayre is the President of the Bundaberg District Chamber of Commerce.

SEPARATION: keep it short & sweet

Current statistics show that one in three marriages end in divorce in Australia. For those of us who are happily married (or just ‘married’, depending what day of the week you ask me), we like to think to ourselves: ‘divorce will never happen to me’. But relationships are complex and people change, or in some cases, they don’t change when you want them to (I will need to think of a place to hide this article… possibly in my ironing board cupboard – I don’t think my husband knows we even own an iron).

Whilst I sit here and stew over my own husband’s domestic ineptitudes, I do take some small comfort in the relatively recent changes to how property settlements play out in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, and how this has helped guide separated parties towards a property settlement process that can play out smoothly and efficiently.

In September 2021, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Family Law) Rules 2021 were introduced. One of the broad purposes of the Rules is that separated couples are encouraged and required to resolve their family law matter (property or parenting, or both) in a timely and efficient manner and to avoid the necessity to go to Court.

The new Rules make it compulsory for parties to complete certain preliminary processes such as disclosing financial information, obtaining valuations of assets, exchanging settlement offers, or participating in a dispute resolution process, like mediation.

Most separated couples are able to come to an agreement amicably and by private agreement. If an agreement cannot be reached after all of the preliminary steps have been completed, then the parties can apply to the Court to determine their matter.

If parties can navigate their property settlement with reasonable expectations, the support of an experienced family lawyer, and they are willing to participate in the processes, the settlement process can be relatively efficient, stress-free, and the costs kept to a minimum. A short and sweet settlement leaves everyone involved in a much better place.

Rebecca De Papi is a Senior Associate at Charltons Lawyers where she practises exclusively in the areas of Family Law and Wills and Estates. She is a Bundaberg local and has three young children. At the date of writing this article was happily married.

opportunity ENTERPRISING

Peter Robinson Jr lacquers boomerangs at Murra-Wolka.

Jaquirah Saylor packs Murra-Wolka orders.

Murra-Wolka boomerang artist Peter Robinson.

Yalga-bini CEO Elise Cottam and Queensland Computers’ John Anderson discuss the benefits of NBN Enterprise Ethernet at Gidji Café.

It may not look much like a bustling business hub, but the Port of Bundaberg at Burnett Heads’ commercial business offering is quietly expanding.

Gidarjil Development Corporation has established a growing business here. The Gidji Café, Yalga-bini Institute, water treatment plant and Murra-Wolka workshop have all planted roots here and continue to grow, thanks to accesses to the latest technology

Working with Queensland Computers, Gidargil have been able to connect to the National Broadband Network’s (NBN) Enterprise Ethernet product, giving them access to the same speeds as any business in a city area.

Queensland Computers Business Account Manager John Anderson said his company was about to almost triple Gidarjil’s connectivity, in terms of speed and bandwidth.

“On a technical level, we’ve done a lot out here to fix a lot of major networking and connectivity issues. We took them from having no connectivity between the buildings, to being all connected. They’ve all got the ability to work remotely and have a decent connectivity around the site as well,” John said.

“We’ve been able to ‘catch up’ with the technology, enabling them to confidently make business decisions around the future of this site.”

The Yalga-binbi Institute provides online skills, training and knowledge across the Central Queensland and Wide Bay Regions. CEO Elise Cottam said reliable internet will enable them to expand their offering further.

“We’ve noticed the difference, absolutely. We do online classes and it can be hard learning through the internet, even without it breaking up and cutting out. This upgrade has given us a stable

connection, so it opens the door for more courses to become online now,” Elise said.

Lifting the digital capability of businesses throughout Queensland is what the National Broadband Network (NBN) is all about, with Enterprise Ethernet - a premium, high performance fibre access network designed to be both fast and reliable.

Head of NBN Local Queensland Kylie Lindsay said the nbn network had helped Australians do more.

“This improved access to technology will open the door on many new opportunities for businesses across the country. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too does the nbn business offering,” Kylie said.

“We expect demand for higher speed services to grow over time, as businesses further invest in technologies that require reliable, secure, high- speed broadband connectivity, including those in regional areas.”

Eligible business customers are now able to order broadband based on wholesale speed tiers of up to almost 10Gbps — up to ten-times faster than before.

Enterprise Ethernet has applications across many different business types, sizes and industries. These include health professionals supporting highly data-intensive imaging, to schools requiring plans based on dedicated wholesale bandwidth, franchises running business critical and cloud applications and small to medium businesses with high upload and download requirements looking to move into the next phase of their digital transformation.

FULL FIBRE UPGRADES AVAILABLE

Households and businesses across Bundaberg and Agnes Water may have the opportunity to choose faster and more reliable broadband as the rollout of full fibre to the premises continues across the country.

Upgrades to a full fibre connection to the NBN can offer eligible customers access to the higher wholesale speed tiers, which deliver a better, more reliable internet experience for homes and businesses, when they order an eligible wholesale speed tier.

According to Venture research commissioned by nbn, online health consultations have increased by 147 percent, online secondary educational engagement has grown by 114 percent and a third of people who can work from home now expect to continue working from home at least one day a week.

There are growing demands from Australian businesses for access to faster speeds and more data. Research indicates that 40 percent of businesses are using video conferencing, cloud storage or cloudbased software.

Other benefits of higher speeds can include:

• Faster uploads and downloads for homes and businesses;

• Faster game upgrades;

• Faster streaming – making it easier to work from home, and a more enjoyable movie experience. The benefits can be even greater for larger households with many high bandwidth devices being used at the same time. More nbn speed is better for when the whole family is streaming online at the same time – working from home, gaming, and watching movies.

To trigger an upgrade, customers at eligible premises need to place an order with a retailer which is based on one of nbn’s three highest residential wholesale speed tiers.

To find out if you’re eligible for an upgrade register at nbn.com.au/fttpupgrade.

Lips&Locks

Hydration or nourishment:

WHICH ONE DO YOU NEED?

As we steam into Winter months, I thought it would be a good time to explain if you are dehydrated or lacking nourishment? It’s important to note they are not the same thing!

You might be surprised to learn that if you don’t have enough of one, you will be experiencing the other.

WHAT IS HYDRATION?

This is exactly as it sounds, it’s the free water in the skin. We get most of our free water from our dermis (lower layer of skin), that gently releases water up in the epidermis (top most highest layer).

Did you know that only seven percent of water in our skin is made up of the water we drink!

You can tell when you’re dehydrated as your skin starts to show fine lines. Your skin doesn’t bounce back as fast when you give it a little pinch and you can look really dull. Your skin will normally try and absorb your cleanser as soon as

you put it on your skin and you will feel like you have to use a lot of moisturiser.

NOURISHMENT

If you are lacking nourishment then you are lacking Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Our skin cell is made of this really fine lipid (oil). As our cell makes its way up to the surface it releases this oil and this creates our skin’s acid mantle.

Unfortunately, 97% of Australians are essential fatty acid deficient, meaning we don’t have a very good healthy acid mantle. When we don’t have this very thin fine layer of oil protecting our skin, that is when free radicals can enter the skin and cause inflammation, redness, breakouts and whole range of skin issues. Worst of all, this causes dehydration!

To resolve this we should really look at adding nourishment to almost every skin routine especially now we are heading into winter.

By Abby Blanke SERENITY SKIN SPA

A good quality fish oil tablet will help to start nourishment from the inside out and to help balance the acid mantle use an oil that contains rose hip, jojoba or triglycerides.

Apply this every night and it’s like you adding a healthy seal over the skin so the water can stay in the river beds keeping the epidermis and your skin cells happy, healthy and bouncy.

BUNDABERG:

Shop 43, 16 Maryborough Street

HERVEY BAY:

Shop 105, 6 Central Avenue www.serenityskinspa.com.au

This Winter is going to look a lot different to the past two years. Finally entering a (somewhat!) post-pandemic world means fewer nights at home watching romcoms, and more nights out celebrating.

This season’s hair trends are truly amazing. We are seeing a resurgence of haircuts and colours from years past, but with a new twist.

Bouncy, polished ’90s blowouts are having a moment once again. Defined by sky high volume at the roots and a polished, shiny finish; think of this as the glamorous alternative to textured beach waves.

Effortless, shaggy layers that frame the face perfectly are here to stay. They’re the perfect gateway to full bangs and a killer standalone look. Be warned though, they require daily styling and regular trims. Invest in a quality round brush and a great texture spray.

By Kiralee Honor THE PLACE HAIRDRESSING

Blunt cuts are making a comeback. They make a structured, bold alternative to all the soft feathery styles that have defined the past few years. Regardless of your face shape or hair type, a blunt edge is guaranteed to emulate a polished and timeless look.

What we’re seeing a lot of lately is natural-looking copper, cinnamons, and soft, strawberry blondes. I love the softness and warmth of these shades. They’re bold and require less care. But remember to use a colour lock shampoo and conditioner recommended by your

stylist, such as Goldwell.

My favourite new styling tool is the new Ghd Duet. If you are always in a rush and don’t have time to blow dry and style, this is your new best friend. Transform hair from wet to styled with no damage, with the first revolutionary two-in-one hot air styler. Gorgeously glossy sleek hair just got easier. This tool respects your hair’s natural moisture with no damage, sizzling or burning smell.

To celebrate Winter we also have a new in-salon cocktail that will warm your heart. Enjoy a French martini while receiving a relaxing hand and temple massage.

At Sugarcoat Creatives, Tara Jacobsen brings over 25 years of experience in the graphic design, marketing and printing industries to her work as a local business owner in Bundaberg.

Beyond her love for donuts, stained glass and cocker spaniels, Tara’s deep passion lies in creating stunning designs that enable her clients to proudly showcase their business.

Tara’s expertise covers a wide range of graphic design needs, from creating a new logo to designing social media graphics, marketing promotions, websites and printing materials.

Creating your brand should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. My goal is to add a touch of sweetness to your ideas and design custom visual concepts that helps you connect with your customers, communicate powerfully, and promote your business with pride.

0409 511 237

tara@sugarcoatcreatives.com

sugarcoatcreatives.com

Glossy colours, lived in blondes, personalised cuts, healthy hair. Whatever look you are going for, great hair doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by an appointment at Bella Donna Hair & Makeup.

Owner Kala Duffy has been growing and evolving the business since buying it as a 21-year-old who had just finished her apprenticeship. The successful business owner has worked her way through many ups and downs. Changing work habits, the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic and changing expectations in the hairdressing industry. Despite it all, over the past 20 years, Bella Donna Hair and Makeup continues to be a leading hair salon in Bundaberg.

“The past 20 years has shown me over and over again that I really do love this industry. As a stylist, I love the

connections and friendships I have been able to build with our guest and fellow hairdressers and, as much as running a small business can be overwhelming and all-consuming at times, I must admit, I have enjoyed the challenge.”

Kala is generally low key and not one to make a fuss, but wanted to mark the salon’s 20-year milestone. In May, Bella Donna celebrated its birthday month and to say thank you to everyone who has supported them during the 20 years, ran special promotions and a celebratory evening for staff and clients.

The birthday has given Kala a chance to reflect on how far Bella Donna has come and how much hairdressing has changed.

“Being both a hairdresser and in small business now is very different to 20-years-ago. When I first started, hairdressing it was a lot simpler –colour, regrowth or foils… A trip to

the hairdresser is now so much more about personalized service and hair is so much more customized, it’s the total experience. Guests’ expectations have changed. The skills needed today means a lot of continued education to be able to keep ourselves on top of our game with ever evolving trends. A visit to the hairdresser these days can vary from 30mins to upwards of 5 hours depending on the guest desired outcome.”

It’s the customisation of hair and the personal satisfaction of each guest that has always been the focus for Bella Donna. Focusing on results and creating beautiful healthy has been the foundation on which the Bella Donna that exists today was built on.

“We look forward to the future and being able look after our valued guests, creating beautiful hair for many years to come.”

HAND UP

Hitz Helping Hands is one of my favourite promotions. In May each year we ask our listeners to nominate people in the Bundaberg community who are doing it tough and need some financial help. About 30 local businesses chip in to sponsor the initiative.

With their support, last year we raised $40,000 to help people like Lachlan Philo. His Mum nominated him because he needed a little bit of financial help to get to the Gold Coast for the Special Olympics. Just recently, Lachie was also selected for the Australian Junior Athletics Championship in Melbourne. He has done Bundy proud coming home with two gold medals in multi class javelin and the 400m, multi class silver in long jump and bronze in the 100m.

We have a lot of talented sports stars in our Region and if they get selected to compete in a State or National level, money can be the one thing that stops them.

The reasons businesses join the cause

IN THE STUDIO WITH TRACEY SERGIACOMI

are simple. Floor Me Complete Flooring Solutions have spoken of the tents on the side of our riverbanks being a visual reminder of those who are doing it tough in our community, and their desire to help in a small way. Fair Dinkum Builds say they are proud to help people that need a leg up. Bundaberg Indoor Sports Centre, Beach 365 and Inflatable World told me they just want to give back to the community that supports their businesses.

Tune in to Hitz939 in June to learn who Hitz Helping Hands will support this year.

Tracey Sergiacomi is one half of the Matty and Trace breakfast duo on 9.39 HitzFM, weekdays from 6am.

WHICH EXTRAS make the difference?

When it comes to buying a new or pre-owned car, there are many decisions to be made and options to consider. From which model in the range is best for you to window tinting, paint protection, extended warranties and luxury features. It can be overwhelming to navigate what is worth investing in and what isn’t.

Upgrading to a higher model is a tempting option for many car buyers. With more features and amenities, it can add value to the car in terms of resale and performance. However, it’s essential to consider your budget and needs before making a decision. You don’t want to break the bank for features you may never use.

Window tinting is worth considering, as it offers multiple benefits. Not only does it reduce the amount of heat that enters the car, it also protects the interior from sun damage due to blocking UV Rays. It

reduces glare while driving and adds a stylish look to the car.

Paint Protection transforms the vehicles surfaces into super hydrophobic coating providing a highly repellent finish that gives a permanent mirror finish, allowing the car’s appearance to remain as new for longer, which improves the resale value and ownership experience.

Extended warranties provide peace of mind by offering additional coverage for repairs beyond the standard warranty periods. There are many options when considering which warranty to choose. It is always best to read the terms and conditions to understand fully what is and what isn’t covered.

Finally, luxury features such as heated leather seats, larger touch screens, high end sound systems and sunroofs add value in terms of luxury and comfort, making them more desirable; which in

turn improves resale value. Incorporating the finer things in life will increase your pride in ownership and enhance your enjoyment while driving. Whether they are needed is another matter.

Buying a new car can be a daunting task. Weighing up the cost against value proposition comes down to the individual. It’s essential to consider your budget and needs, however, spoiling yourself with a few of the finer things in life is always nice.

Christopher Makin is the General Sales Manager at Bundaberg Motor Group, featuring nine brands and a large range of quality used cars.

Good old fashioned service!

Creative canvas

There is something a little whimsical and childlike about dipping a brush into paint and dragging it over a canvas. Even if you haven’t attempted a painting since your kindy days, you are sure to find the magic again at Pinot and Piccaso.

Now, painting is a lot more fun. Grab a glass of your favourite, tuck into some nibblies and be guided through creating your very own masterpiece. You don’t need any experience or artistic abilities – just an open mind and willingness to give it a go.

Rest assured you are in good hands with new owners Katrina Humphries and Debbie Lennon, who also own the award-winning Redcliffe studio and one in Nundah Village. They decided to expand their operation to Bundaberg after many happy family holidays here over the past 20 years.

Paint and sip experiences are becoming more popular and rightly so. They are a fun night out that you can experience by yourself, or with a group of your faves. They are perfect for birthday or team building events, Christmas parties, baby showers, hen’s or kids parties – they have even held divorce parties!

For something more intimate, book a studio space for yourself, or have the Pinot and Picasso team come to you with a mobile or pop-up event.

Image: Jennifer McDuff, Conversation on the Back Stairs, 1989, Gouache, Collage. Dr Pamela Croft, Kooma clan, of the Uralarai people, Woman, 1988, Bronze, Sandstone.

WORDS BY LARINE STATHAM-BLAIR

You’d be hard pressed to find an Australian who doesn’t know the Icehouse song ‘Great Southern Land’. It’s as iconic as vegemite on toast. In 40 years the band has had 28 platinum albums, eight Top 10 albums and more than 30 Top 40 singles. Their music transcends age and demographics.

Yet, Icehouse’s founder and creative lead, Iva Davies, denies he’s one of the greatest lyricists of our time. From an early age he admired the likes of Peter Gabriel, David Bowie, Pink Floyd and Joni Mitchell. “They have set a benchmark for me that I will never even go close to. In a way, it’s kind of depressing. When you admire somebody’s body of work, and then realise that you’ve only dipped your toe in the water. You know, you will never attain that kind of artistic success.”

It’s an incredibly incongruous belief for an award-winning, world-famous pop rock star from country New South Wales, who plays the bagpipes, oboe and guitar. Iva’s played in symphony orchestras and composed

scores for ballets and Hollywood motion pictures, like Master and Commander. He pioneered the use of electric synthesisers in mainstream music. He’s been inducted into the Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and was presented with an Order of Australia medal for services to music, entertainment and the community.

Iva admits he’s received a lot of correspondence over the years about songs like ‘Don’t Believe Anymore’. “Many people have thanked me for writing that song,” he said. “It’s probably the most personal song I wrote. My own situation, which produced that song, was an incredibly unhappy period for me. One letter I received from an 18-year-old woman was in a dreadfully abusive situation and felt she had no way of getting out of it. When she heard that song, it kind of saved her life, because she realised that somebody was as unhappy as she was. Now that’s a bizarre kind of gift to give to the world in a way, but nonetheless, it means a lot to a lot of people. And I’m acutely aware of that.”

It’s one of the reasons Icehouse never tire of playing their hits. The other is the unpredictable nature of Icehouse, which has had 19 members in 40 years.

“The dynamic of a band is a very fluid one. We allow variability … the show will never follow the script, which puts a lot of adrenaline into the evening and an element of excitement,” Iva said.

The humble 68-year-old, who will perform at Lighthouse Rock at Burnett Heads this October, attributes Icehouse’s success to luck and support.

“I was drawn to music at a very young age and incredibly lucky that I had good teachers,” he said. From there Iva just “jumped in at the deep end”. “I was making it up as I went along and just kind of winging it,” he said.

Photo Credit: Tony Mott

There are plenty of Aussie colloquialisms that we use every day but may not have ever given thought to where they came from. Take ‘Dorrie Evans’ for example. Dorrie was the interfering self-appointed concierge character in the 1970s hit television show, Number 96. Yet, most of us know it to mean to be someone who’s nosey or a ‘sticky beak’. In Murri or indigenous slang, Dorrie means to ‘take a look around’.

It’s why the PCCC (Port Curtis Coral Coast Aboriginal Peoples Charitable Trust) named their first nations career event, Dorrie Day. They could have gone for a traditional name like Bundaberg Jobs Expo, but that wouldn’t have done their event justice. It’s a laid back, fun-filled career day with a difference.

Dorrie Day is an out-of-the box, hands-on career event for students in years 6 to 12. Outdoors in the sunshine, they show indigenous youth the exciting opportunities that are available to them that they may not have considered in the past. It’s a relaxed, informal environment – outside the confines of four walls - to ask questions, think differently and understand the personal growth, pride and satisfaction they can gain from having a fulfilling career. It shows them work doesn’t have to be something dull, where you turn up just to earn a paycheque and go home. Dorrie Day is all about broadening minds and showing students they are capable of great things.

The event connects indigenous youth to potential employers and raises awareness among the business community of the

cultural supports available to their young indigenous employees. Indigenous guest speakers share stories about their experiences in the workforce; pathways taken, opportunities gifted, and opportunities missed. It’s a candid conversation, baring all bones, talking about the real struggles that are faced and ways to overcome them in partnership with local businesses.

Dorrie Day isn’t focussed squarely on filling job vacancies. It’s about history, growth, dreams and change. PCCC’s aim is for students to leave the event, asking what their ideal future will look like as an individual, but also how do they see their collective future as a culture and local community.

Last year, more than 50 exhibitors attended and 40 students gained work experience from the event.

Dorrie Day is just one of the many programs and events run by PCCC that aim to improve the lives of Aboriginal people who belong to four local tribes. The PCCC oversee their native title, negotiate land use agreements and manage, invest and administer their funds in the way of education and training, cultural projects, elder assistance, sporting scholarships, and the like.

Come

on

JUNE

24 JUNE

Pop-up Polo - 18+ event

@Bundaberg Recreational Precinct Australia’s largest and favourite polo circuit returns to Bundaberg. Champagne. Glamour. Fashion. Repeat.

27 JUNE

360 All Stars

@Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation, 360 All Stars connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus.

29 JUNE

Dr Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat–Live @ Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

Two bored kids. One rainy day. And one crazy cat wearing a red-striped hat. Young and old alike will delight in this lively adaptation of a classic book coming to life before your very eyes.

JULY

14 JULY

Possum Magic

@Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

Mem Fox and Julie Vivas’ beloved picture book ‘Possum Magic’ has enchanted

THE DIARY

children for decades and Monkey Baa Theatre Company brings the paper and ink to life on stage once again.

27 - 30 JULY

Childers Festival

@Bruce Highway, Childers

Over four big days, Childers is transformed into a food, market stall and entertainment hub. Explore a wide variety of events all staged between the towns beautiful heritage-listed buildings and leopard tree lined streets.

23 JULY

Cane2Coral

@Bundaberg and Bargara

For recreation and fun runners, begin at Bundaberg, run through a city landscape, past cane fields and small crops, to finish at the beach. Choose from distances of 21.1km, 15km, 8km, 4km and 2km.

AUGUST

4 - 13 AUGUST

Taste Bundaberg Festival

@Various Locations

A coming together of the Region’s most passionate culinary community.

A showcase of authentic Bundaberg food and drink experiences.

11 AUGUST

Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree

@Moncrieff Entertainment Centre

Jibber Jabber Jamboree marks Ross Noble’s 21st solo stand-up tour. To celebrate this milestone, he invites you to join him for an evening of the sort of inspired nonsense that has cemented his place as the supreme master of stream of conscious freewheeling stand up.

26 AUGUST

Oceanfest @Marine Drive, Burnett Heads

Celebrating local seafood, Oceanfest features food, drinks, themed entertainment, attractions, displays, demonstrations and workshops.

All events are accurate at the time of publication and may be weather permitting and subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please confirm details online with event organisers as close to the event as possible.

“The art competition is always a highlight, with new categories added this year, and the return of the school art competition sees the local children get excited to participate.

“We are expecting our biggest markets and food court offerings and have some big plans for stage entertainment and fun on the beach.”

SO MUCH MOORE TO LOVE

Moore Park Beach is glorious one day and perfect the next, but the highlight is the Moore Park Beach Arts Festival held in August each year. Hordes of people, families, and friends gather at the coastal town to enjoy entertainment, arts, markets, local foods and fun activities for all.

The showcase starts on Friday August 18 with a junior launch in the morning

and art awards in the evening, and a main festival day is on Saturday.

Moore Park Beach Arts president Trish Mears said there were some exciting things planned for the event, in its 24th year.

“The original foundation of Moore Park Beach Arts Festival was to encourage the community, including children, to engage in the creation of art,” Trish said.

Everyone is welcome at the Moore Park Beach Arts Festival, there really is something to enjoy for all ages. Head on down, enjoy the beach, the markets, the art and entertainment and stay for the fireworks finale.

Rebel Heart Photography

Natures Emporium

Brings the world to your doorstep, showcasing an eclectic range of quality products to support wholistic living.

For centuries, humans have used crystals and semiprecious stones in healing rituals. They are believed to emit positive, uplifting and energising vibrations to align body and mind. When used around your home or worn on your body, they help improve spiritual flow and remind us of the intentions we’ve set.

Nature’s Emporium has Bundaberg’s largest range of crystals, sourced from around the globe. They specialise in quality sterling silver jewellery and books that explain the formation, origin, history and power of crystals like those pictured. Each stone has its own unique properties, offering many benefits such as cleansing, peace, clarity, integrity, creativity, light and strength.

Visit owners Chris & Tina instore for advice on how to incorporate crystals into your everyday living.

07 4151 5855

55 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg

www.naturesemporium.com.au