DUOMagazine May 2016

YOURS TO KEEP! AUSTRALIA’S REGIONAL PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR FINALIST MAY 2016

THE

MOTHERS ISSUE

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May 2016 DUOMagazine

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PERC TUCKER REGIONAL GALLERY TOWNSVILLE CITY

PINNACLES GALLERY RIVERWAY ARTS CENTRE

Image above: Tessa MCONIE Untitled [detail] 2016, 150 x 200 cm, Oil on canvas

Image above: Brett CANET-GIBSON The Life of Riley [detail] 2014, 90 x 60 cm, Digital photographic print

Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Cnr. Denham and Flinders Streets Townsville QLD 4810 Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm Sat - Sun: 10am - 2pm

Pinnacles Gallery Riverway Arts Centre 20 Village Boulevard Townsville QLD 4817 Tues - Sun: 10am - 5pm

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(07) 4727 9011 ptrg@townsville.qld.gov.au www.townsville.qld.gov.au @TCC_PercTucker PercTuckerTCC

DUOMagazine May 2016

(07) 4773 8871 pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au www.townsville.qld.gov.au @TCC_Pinnacles PinnaclesTCC

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Mother's Day Gift Pack worth over PRIZE INCLUDES*: Massage | Pedicure | Style Cut | Sparkling Wine | Ladies Sunglasses | Hamper Pack | Gift Cards

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DUOContents

MAY 2016 ISSUE 120

68

90 DUOHome+Travel 68 B ook Extract Dream Décor

by Will Taylor

70 Josh Blundell Arlo Security Camera 74 Home Decor Bedtime Story 75 Balé Bliss The Balé Nusa Dua 78 Travel News Destinations and latest finds 80 Maria Pandalai Destination: Crete

DUOStyle Cover Story 34 Our 60 Mumpreneurs Making their mark on Townsville

Community Training Australia 17 May Issue Custom Magazine

Special Feature 50 I t’s All About Kids Ideas for the family

Feature Stories 62 The Round Table Series Young local women talk of life, family and the future

142 D UOMagazine Percival Photographic Portrait Prize and Glencore Percival Portrait Painting Prize A Selection of Finalists

Regulars 12 Publisher’s Welcome 14 On The Cover 16 Horoscopes 170 F ive Minutes With… Four amazing locals tell us about themselves

176 Last Word Betty Archer

86 My Bag Ambika Rebello 88 Woman Beyonce, Mimco, Sportscraft...

90 Beauty Well Hello There 92 My Style Amanda Green 96 Man Burberry, Fossil, Jimmy Choo Man...

98 Decjuba Collection

DUOHealth 106 Grant Collins Clarity Hearing Solutions 107 Paul Parker Sportsmed NQ Physio 108 Leanne Scott Pure Core Nourishment 109 Becky Croxford Bamford Medical 110 Rebecca Vinson Wehll

DUOCommunity 112 Nicole Pierotti Babysmiles 114 Nicole Stott-Whiting

Catholic Diocese of Townsville

115 K errie Stuart Roberts Nehmer McKee

116 Ewen Jones MP Federal Member 118 Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre 120 Townsville Hospital Foundation Salary Saints

122 N Q Women’s Legal Services Tackling Domestic Violence

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DUOMagazine May 2016

THE MOTHERS ISSUE DUOBusiness 124 Townsville Enterprise Limited Emerging Leaders Program

126 T ownsville Enterprise Limited

Tourism Is Everyone’s Business

128 T rent Yesberg Regional Business Services

129 Ewen Jones MP Federal Member 130 Warwick Powell Sister City Partners 132 Christian Gordon 360 Cre8ive Enterprises

133 K aren Quagliata Northern Tax & Financial Services

134 Peter Baines OAM

Hands Across The Water Founder

DUOArts+Events 137 Profile shake & stir theatre co’s Wuthering Heights

138 What’s On Theatre, Sport And More 140 TYTO Hinchinbrook Highlight 148 Seen Burdekin Fashion Showcase 149 Seen Mercedes Trophy Golf Day 150 Seen Year of Mercy Gathering 2016 151 Seen Townsville Enterprise Members’ Networking Function

152 Seen Grill’d Burger for Althea Projects 153 Seen Private Ginger Mick at Gallipoli

DUOFood+Drink 156 Profile Dan Bigney, Stellarossa 166 Recipes One Pot Favourites by Pete Evans

168 Recipes Busy Mum’s Cookbook

by Annabel Karmel

DUOWelcome

LETTER from the DIRECTOR

FOR THE LOVE OF MOTHERS I’ve kicked Scott out of his chair and taken over this month. It’s May. The month where we give our mothers a day off (or should do)! as we celebrate Mother’s Day (May 8). So with mums in mind, we’ve decided that the whole May issue should be dedicated to mums. In fact this month we’re all about celebrating women!

Mothers are the greatest influence in our lives. Firstly, they’re our nurturer, then our disciplinarian, our supporter, our critic, our adviser, our sympathiser, our advocate, our sounding board and always our teacher and friend. And I love that mothers continue to think of us as their baby, so we can feel pampered, or frustrated, but always comforted. Mothers have an unconditional love we don’t get from anyone else (except maybe our dads).

At least that was my case. My mum was my best friend. Sadly, she passed away five years ago.

Mum was a kind, friendly, happy, fun, witty person with a loving soul who would do anything for you, especially her family, and there’s not a single day that passes when I don’t think about her.

Scott and I don’t have children, though we’re not without family. We have a large brood of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews that we’ve adopted as our own. It’s wonderful, ‘we’ (insert Scott here – I always excuse myself on this one) sit on the fence and impart our know-all opinions on raising children. We’re also infamous for spoiling them and handing them back. I’m blessed to be treated as their surrogate mum and each Mother’s Day I’m treated as one. Now I look to my surrogate mums and wonderful friends – my mother-in-law Joan, my Aunty Dawn and my Aunty Jill. Great women.

This month, we’re privileged to introduce you to 60 Townsville Mumpreneurs who each generously gave their time and insight on how they handle their life/work balance. Taking their photographs was a great opportunity to have some down time and catch up with friends. Go to page 34 to see who you know.

While it’s all about women this issue, not everyone is a mother. DUOMagazine’s Courtney Frank sat down with five impressive young women for the latest in The Round Table series at Michels Restaurant and talked about their life, ambitions and opinions. It’s a great read starting on page 62.

And we have great grandmother, Betty Archer, giving us the Last Word.

So hats off to all you wonderful mums out there. It’s a sometime thankless but rewarding job you do. We hope you have a delightful Mother’s Day and enjoy reading your DUOMagazine.

Stacey Morrison Director stacey@duomagazine.com.au

THE DUO MAGAZINE TEAM PUBLISHER PRODUCTION EDITORIAL ADVERTISING

Scott Morrison Joan Fanning Stacey Morrison Courtney Frank Leah Barnes Elle Duggan

FOR ALL EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

editor@duomagazine.com.au

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DUOMagazine May 2016

FOR ALL ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

READ YOUR DUO ONLINE AT

advertise@duomagazine.com.au

www.duomagazine.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Kylie Davis, Lori Napier

DUOMagazine is published monthly by Intrepid (NQ) Pty Ltd ACN 107 308 538 PO Box 1928 Townsville Qld 4810 Telephone 07 4771 2933 Facsimile 07 4771 2699 Email duo@duomagazine.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Gianoulis, Josephine Carter TELEPHONE 07 4771 2933

Image: Roslyn Budd Photography

And a past member of the DUOMagazine family, Ambi Rebello, introduces her gorgeous son Rohan. Ambi is a first time mum who is loving every minute of her new role. See what Ambi has to carry around now that there’s a little one on board on page 86.

COPYRIGHT Contents of DUO Magazine are subject to copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences including any loss or damage arising from reliance on information in this publication. Expressed or implied authors’ and advertisers’ opinions are not necessarily those of the editor and/or publisher.

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DUOMagazine

Left to right: Karen Quagliata Tanya Roberts Kylie Bartlett Sarah Arnold Dr Monique Flores Leanne Scott

ON THE COVER Supermums. Entrepreneurs. So many women are both and then some these days. Successful businesswomen who keep the wheels turning at home, Mumpreneurs are worth their weight in gold. We have six of 60 gorgeous Mumpreneurs gracing the cover. All 60 share their challenges, triumphs and words of wisdom in celebration of Mother’s Day. The cover was photographed on location at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery while the feature story shoots took place at Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts over two evenings.

DRESSED BY AVANTI THE FASHION SALON Sarah wears Theory ¾ pants and side tie jacket.

Monique wears Zimmermann skirt and top.

Karen wears Rebecca Taylor Guipure Lace skirt and top.

Kylie wears Trelise Cooper Bella Swan dress.

Tanya wears Theory knit top, Paula Ryan pants and American Vintage trench overcoat.

Leanne wears Diane Von Furstenberg Guipure Lace dress.

JEWELLERY Kailis Australian Pearls available from Kim Bartlett Master Jewellers SHOES Models own STYLIST Elizabeth Simonsen, Fashion Zen Style

14

DUOMagazine May 2016

HAIR AND MAKEUP STYLISTS Sarah – hair by Elspeth Smith and makeup Cheree Steel, Urban Miss Makeup.

Monique – hair by Ry Amos, Sa’f Hair and makeup Sevasti Kantros, Northern Skin Studio.

Karen – hair by Kat Jackson, Sa’f Hair and makeup Sevasti Kantros, Northern Skin Studio.

Kylie – hair by Ry Amos, Sa’f Hair and makeup Kristin Martin, Kristin Martin Makeup Artist.

Tanya – hair by Kat Jackson, Sa’f Hair and makeup Kristin Martin, Kristin Martin Makeup Artist.

Leanne – hair by Elspeth Smith and makeup Cheree Steel, Urban Miss Makeup.

LOCATION Perc Tucker Regional Gallery Flinders Street Townsville

BACKGROUND ARTWORK Floating, Sea Dawn, Sea Dusk and Sounding

by Felim Egan.

PHOTOGRAPHER Matthew Gianoulis ART DIRECTOR Scott Morrison CONTACT NUMBERS Matthew Gianoulis 0428 752 063 Avanti The Fashion Salon 4771 4799 Fashion Zen Style 0423 575 000 Elspeth Smith 0484 651 654 Sa’f Hair 4772 2243 Kristin Martin Makeup Artist 0407 131 313 Urban Miss Makeup 0418 796 897 Northern Skin Studio 4771 5898 Kim Bartlett Master Jewellers 4772 3622

FOR ALL THE UNIQUE MOTHERS

DUOMagazine

Horo scope

STAR OF THE MONTH

Taurus 21 APRIL – 20 MAY

Taureans appreciate life’s more dramatic moments. So you’ll love these next few spirited months. Matters of love and work steal the opening scenes. The cosmos also creates a strong desire to express what you’re most passionate about. So do whatever it is that makes you feel truly alive.

The outcome promises to be sensational.

Prepare for new friendships too, but to keep up – you’ll need to stay available.

Upgrade social media.

Astrologer Tanya Obreza reveals what’s in the stars for you this month…

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

21 MAY – 21 JUNE

22 JUNE - 22 JULY

23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

Feel overworked and underpaid?

Not to worry. Recognition and rewards will soon follow. Business travel is likely, as is good financial fortune. The time is also right for serious and disciplined work, which you’re more than capable of handling. All this dedication doesn’t flow just one way: the more you give, the more you get.

While others map out a clear plan for the coming month, Cancerians mull over the past. Recently, relationships or career have suffered a reality check. Seeing your inner strength put on the rack can be a queasy experience, but there are always lessons to be learned.

Indeed, what you sacrificed in the past is soon returned tenfold.

Chances are, you’ve felt fettered by regulations lately, but you’re now given a chance to break free. Where others might hesitate before the fear of an uncertain future, you lead by example and show no doubt that you’re ready to move on. This could mean letting some old grievances drop, so be ready to forgive and forget.

If you’re wondering what could make life happier this month, think love and friendship. Just be aware that others may not be all that open with financial facts, and it’s up to you to prise the truth out of less scrupulous cohorts. This could call for a degree of cunning and patience. It may take until late June to see the real figures.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

22 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER

22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

Money doesn’t grow on trees, and even it it did, you still have some serious sowing to do. It’s not that you won’t do well during May – you’ll just have to work hard for it. Your driving force? A planetary promise of financial independence.

Demanding responsibilities keep testing you, but it’s good practice for next month’s public debut.

You’re entitled to be proud of your resilience Scorpio, as you’ve come through a difficult time. Now comes the irresistible urge for something new. May’s professional changes release reserves of inner power. If a constricting relationship is holding you back, perhaps it’s time to break free. But the month also calls for a degree of compromise.

Get ready for special treats to come your way. Enjoy every moment of feeling pampered and spoiled. At work, too, your patience should finally be rewarded as an important breakthrough is achieved. A timely bonus could also make it easier to pay debts. Bills first, luxuries later.

Your mind is drawn in many directions this month, making it difficult to keep an eye on everything. Joint finances, in particular. And there’s nothing like financial woes to try a relationship.

At work, others may cloud your judgement. It’s been said that many hands make light work, but some of them may be attached to highly opinionated individuals.

Aquarius

Pisces

Aries

20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

21 MARCH – 20 APRIL

Looks like a huge financial leap is on the horizon. Best avenues of investment are land and property; or jobs that enable you to work from home. And don’t be surprised if friends or family take more interest in your well being. Some may give support without you even being aware of it. Go where life takes you.

If recent efforts have felt like all pain and no gain, don’t lose heart. This isn’t the first time you’ve battled against the odds. So file mistakes under forget, and keep trying for that breakthrough. Take comfort in the fact that there’s a cosmic support team assembling this month, just for you. A relationship may benefit from an honest heart to heart.

Being different sometimes involves taking risks. And the planets now double dare you. This month, romance – possibly with someone older, may be formed as a direct result of work or travel. And if you feel inclined to mix business with pleasure, the merger should prove mutually pleasing. Financially, and emotionally.

16

DUOMagazine May 2016

Like to have your own personal profile?

If you’re interested in an in-depth astrology profile prepared by our favourite astrologer Tanya Obreza, visit www.tanyaobreza.com

RTO# 31905

DUCIN TRO G IN

UPSKILLING MADE

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The Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

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There is no time like the present to further your education.

Whether you want to launch your career, prepare yourself for university or upskill in your current job, Community Training Australia (CTA) can be there to guide you.

Improve your employment options with a Diploma from Community Training Australia.

According to data from the Community Service & Health Industry Skills Council, health industries are predicted to be Australia’s new job powerhouse. The demand for qualified workers in community services is increasing significantly, as the ageing population grows and the mining boom comes to an end.

All of CTA’s courses are specially designed (and meticulously taught) by experts from the community services and healthcare industries. The nationally recognised training

organisation (RTO# 31905) is in its twelfth year of operation, with campuses in most Australian states, plus a Distance Campus for those who’d prefer to study online. Study now and pay later! CTA’s fun, fast and friendly courses are VET FEE-HELP approved qualifications.

Since CTA is passionate about making education available to everyone, it’s introduced Zoom Learning. Zoom Learning (another wonderful CTA initiative) is designed for the timepoor student who wants to pursue a new career or upskill in their current profession.

To find out more information about Zoom Learning, please read on in this Ultimate Career Guide.

For more information about CTA visit: www.cta.edu.au or call 1300 COMMUNITY and be on your way to a more employable you. www.facebook.com/CommunityTrainingAustralia

CTA STATISTICS Community Training Australia’s graduating students Aged over 40

56%

61%

68%

83%

Female Counselling students

51% 20

40

60

80

100

56%

exploring the option of higher education

believe their studies are making a difference in their family and personal relationships

72% believe their course assisted them in personal healing 2

85%

have increased self-esteem

56%

believe the course helped them to make a positive difference in their community

42% gained employment

The

Be it directly or indirectly, everybody in Australia needs access to Community Services and Healthcare.

Three-quarters of the Health and Wellbeing Workforce holds a post-school qualification.

3/4

Industry intelligence shows that Community Services and Health Care is Australia’s fastest growing industry.

Around

300,000

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

INDUSTRY STATISTICS

new jobs have been created nationally in Health Care since 2007.

77%

The Community Services and Health Industry is predicted to grow up to 77 per cent larger over the next 12 years.

The Health and Social Assistance Sector accounts for one in every nine jobs.

Australians are now more likely to make a living from “Social Assistance & Health Care” than anything else.

The Social Assistance and Health sector is Australia’s jobs powerhouse.

References: The Health and Social Assistance Sector is Community Service & Health Industry Skills Council. (2012). Health and wellbeing the real boom jobs.

Retrieved from http://www.cshisc.com.au/media-centre/latest-news/health-and-well-being-the-real-boom-jobs/ Community Service & Health Industry Skills Council. (2013). Community service and health: the next big thing.

Retrieved from http://www.cshisc.com.au/media-centre/latest-news/community-services-and-health-the-next-big-thing/

3

Study Modes to Suit All CTA is passionate about making education available to everyone. Offering six different study modes, at CTA there is an option to suit every lifestyle. Whether you want to study full-time, part-time or just whenever you can, our programs give you maximum flexibility.

1.

Mixed Mode Study - A combination of face-to-face classroom learning, trainer-led study groups and optional online learning.

2.

Night and Weekend Training - Block mode, face-to-face classroom learning, outside regular business hours.

3.

Recognised Prior Learning - A pathway for industry personnel or students who have previously worked or studied in the relevant field to gain assessment/module accreditation.

4.

Integrated Placement Programs - A placement option that allows students to complete aspects of their qualification in Australia or overseas.

5.

Rural Residential - Travel to the Malanda Campus for intensive 5-day study blocks, four to five times a year and focus on your education while we take care of everything else.

6.

Distance Education is a study option that is not bound to any geographical location, so you can study from anywhere in Australia. Through an advanced online learning platform, students are able to access learning material, assessments and friendly CTA trainers from the comfort of their own home.

AMENITIES & FACILITIES LEGEND ACCOMMODATION STUDENT SUPPORT TUTORING TRAINING ROOM STUDY AREA OUTDOOR SOCIAL AREA MORNING & AFTERNOON TEA FOOD SERVICE AREA FIRST AID OFFICER DISABILITY ACCESS INSIDE SOCIAL AREA LIBRARY ACCESS TO LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ACCESS TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT

4

Distance students develop personal connections with their educators and classmates through video conference role plays, tutorials, and chat room group discussions. When commencing your course you will be coupled with a qualified and friendly educator, who will make your online education journey stress free. Our educators are all highly qualified, caring and supportive.

We have extremely high graduate rates in our distance education programs. This is because we have personalised distance education, with our students’ best interests at heart. If you are in a rural or remote region, or reside in a place where you can’t get to a campus, we can help you achieve your dreams.

The

CHC50413 Diploma of Youth Work Being a Youth Worker is so much more than just a profession!

Youth Workers really do change people’s lives for the better. Our graduates learn how to contribute positively to the growth of the next generation.

Adolescence is a turbulent time where hormones, peer involvement, questioning of values and developing personal freedom can take young people into dangerous areas, particularly if they don’t have reasonable support structures.

Youth Workers draw on a range of highly specialised skills including effective communication, counselling and referral, case management, community development, advocacy, empowerment, and recreation to help youths through difficult times.

It could be you, changing the lives of young people in crisis or creating programs that help young people to feel important, connected and motivated.

Jacob Hadcroft

Youth Work Student

If you are a compassionate person and want to develop your natural abilities and skills to help young people grow, join us in this course. You will have an amazing time, learning how to use your skills to help young people in your community.

Gain employment as a…

• • • • • • • •

Youth and Family Support Officer or Coordinator Indigenous Youth Worker Services Coordinator Program Manager Senior Youth Worker Youth Work Team Leader Youth Worker Recreational Officer

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

Our Courses

Modes of Study

“I still have a few more modules left to complete, but I have already gained full-time employment in a Youth Correction Centre.”

5

CHC53215 Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs resort to substance misuse, learn about the crippling effects of addiction, and how turning lives around can be incredibly rewarding for both clients and yourself.

Successfully completing this diploma will provide you with the skills, knowledge and attitude to effectively intervene and support individuals who have become dependent upon substances.

Modes of Study

Using specific skills and knowledge, Alcohol and Other Drug Carers learn to conquer some of the most difficult situations, making this job challenging but highly rewarding. As an Alcohol and Other Drug Worker you will discover why people

Are you an empathetic person? Do you want to work with people in need and help them transform their lives? If so, join us in the course and be on your way to a helping profession.

Gain employment in...

• • •

Alcohol and Other Drugs Work Community Rehabilitation and Support Work Prevention and Rehabilitation Work

• •

Community Support Work Alcohol and Other Drug Education

Max Younger CTA Townsville Trainer

“The reason I teach and am not a practicing Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Mental Health Carer, is because imparting quality knowledge into the next generation of carers is an incredibly important aspect of the helping profession.”

CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health Mental Health Workers provide essential care to society members in need. Most people perceive Mental Health Workers as solely caring for those who have mental health issues.

While this is an important aspect of mental health work, Mental Health Carers do so much more. Through education, carers can help prevent the onset of mental illness or help pre-existing conditions from becoming worse. Mental Health Workers also know how to expertly dispense practical advice to individuals who seek their help.

If you are friendly and have a nonjudgemental attitude, you could have

6

what it takes to be a professional in Mental Health. Through your work, you’ll create a safe and trusting environment, where clients feel they can heal.

Gain employment as a...

• • • • •

Mental Health Community Worker Mental Health Outreach Worker Mental Health Rehabilitation Support Worker Community Rehabilitation Worker Support Worker

Modes of Study

The

specialised skills and care. At some stage in life, most of us will encounter life struggles that can feel too big to handle on our own. With the right skills, you could be helping many of these people with a listening ear and a caring, clear mind.

Modes of Study

Are you a compassionate listener? Do you want to make a large difference in the lives of those struggling? Take your first step towards your dream job with us!

Gain employment as a...

Counsellors make huge differences in people’s lives by helping them process life challenges. As a career, counselling can offer personal fulfilment, as professionals find great satisfaction through providing

• • • • •

Counsellor Problem Gambling Worker Youth Services Disability Services Community Services

Allison P Saylor

Counselling Student

“I have been receiving counselling for the last 15 years. Undertaking this diploma is an extension of my own personal growth. The trainers are very friendly and go the extra mile to make sure that I am enjoying and understanding my studies.”

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling

CHC52015 Diploma of Community Services Community Service Workers are an integral and important aspect of each and every societal group. Through tackling issues that impact their community and helping those who are marginalised, Community Service Carers are everyday heroes.

The skills and knowledge you will gain from this course will enable you to work in a range of positions that will enrich the lives of those in your community.

Gain employment as a...

• • • • • • •

Community Service Worker Welfare Worker Family Support Worker Community Development Officer Service Manager Client Service Manger Early Intervention Worker

Modes of Study

Do you want to help people live the highest quality of life possible? Are you passionate about helping your community through difficult situations? Gain a nationally recognised qualification with us!

7

CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Early childhood education and care is a highly rewarding profession that requires unique skills and a passion to help children embrace play, achieve milestones, and learn new things.

Childcare workers provide supervision and care for children and help them take their first steps towards becoming young people. Using specialised skills, Early Childhood Educators create a safe and nurturing environment for young children to learn and grow.

This course will train you in the fundamental areas of early childhood education and teach you how to provide care for children aged 0-5 years old.

Are you a fun-loving, kind person? Can you share the magic of imagination, knowledge and care with young children? With us, you’ll gain a nationally recognised qualification and start moving towards your dream career.

Gain employment in...

• • • • •

Early Childhood Education Home Based Care Home Help Assistance Crèche Work Nanny or Governess

CHC50213 Diploma of School Age Education and Care Working in childcare is an extremely fulfilling profession because your day-today tasks help children grow and learn.

Become a positive role model to children and help them make friends, learn new skills and discover the world!

By attaining this nationally recognised qualification you will be able to work with children aged 5-12 years old as an educator and carer. If you study to become a Childcare Professional, you’ll learn how to hone in on your ability to help kids discover the world. Maybe you’ll even inspire them to learn through play and make new friends, too.

8

If you are driven and passionate, and want to make a positive difference in children’s lives, this qualification was designed for you!

Gain employment as a...

• • • •

Vacation Care Educator Outside School Hours Educator Summer Camp Worker Childhood Educator Assistant

Modes of Study

Reilly Rafferty

Childcare Student

“The teachers really make an effort to get to know you on a personal level. The teaching style is very interactive and the perfect mix between flexible yet structured.”

Modes of Study

The

We are offering Professional Development for Childcare Professionals!

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

Have you heard?

Designed Specifically for Industry Employees!

Do you work as a Childcare Professional?

Did you know, in accordance with the Department of Education and Training*, as of January 1, 2018, at least 50 percent of all educators working in services with children under school age will need to hold (or be working towards) an approved diploma qualification or higher?

Bring your industry experience to the classroom and gain a nationally recognised qualification now!

CHC50113 DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE

We are exclusively offering current industry employees the opportunity to study the CHC50113 DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE as a new “out-ofhours� Saturday study option.

Each module will be delivered on one Saturday per month and will run for an entire day at a CTA Campus. This nationally recognised qualification encompasses 13

modules and recognises your industry experience, meaning you do not have to complete any additional placement hours!

For more information on this qualification or to find out if you are eligible to enrol contact us today on 1300 COMMUNITY! *Department of Education and Training (2015, March). National Quality Framework, Queensland Government, Retrieved from http://deta.qld.gov.au/earlychildhood/pdfs/key-changes-qld.pdf

9

Our Campuses

Townsville

The Retro Campus Address: 266 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale, QLD 4814 Phone: 07 4775 4555 Email: townsville@cta.edu.au Web: www.cta.edu.au/campuses/townsville

For CTA, Townsville is where everything began. From our humble beginnings as one small training facility, CTA has grown to have a national presence. Still, we remember where our founding roots were planted twelve years ago. That’s why, to this day, we have a strong presence in the Townsville community.

Townsville is home to the Distance Campus, the ever-busy CTA Headquarters, the caring Help Hub and the spacious Townsville

Campus. While Townsville Campus is our longest-running classroom premises, it is far from being out-of-date. The buildings are furnished with luxury fittings and stateof-the-art training equipment, creating seamless learning for our students.

With four lecture rooms, a large computer laboratory, and an ever growing selection of library resources, students may create their study habits to suit their lives and feed their learning process. Plus, our classes are held

day and night, to suit different students’ needs. All our campus facilities are designed to evoke a sense of comfort and support that adds something special to the CTA experience.

Amenities & Facilities

See the Campus in this quick video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-65oz681GbE

Cairns

The Rainforest Campus Address: 11 Sheridan Street, Cairns, QLD 4870 Phone: 07 4081 2006 Email: cairns@cta.edu.au Web: www.cta.edu.au/campuses/cairns

Since opening in 2015, The Rainforest Campus in Cairns has been dedicated to transforming hearts and minds.

Conveniently located in the heart of the city, you will find all necessities just a stone’s throw away. Cairns is a laid-back beachside town, and The Rainforest Campus reflects this vibe. We’re more board shorts than briefcase, for sure.

The Rainforest Campus creates the perfect environment for students and staff to

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connect over a delicious cup of coffee. Let us enhance your educational adventure with inviting study areas, two large lecture rooms and an onsite café.

community and help other people change their lives for the better.

Diplomas in counselling, community services, leadership and management, mental health, alcohol and other drugs and child care are on offer at the Cairns campus, and we’re bringing more on board in 2016.

In our tropical paradise, students are empowered to make a difference to their

Amenities & Facilities

The

The Country Manor Campus Address: 1720 Millaa Millaa Road, Jaggan, QLD 4885 Phone: 07 4096 6590 Email: malanda@cta.edu.au Web: www.cta.edu.au/campuses/malanda

Nestled in the Atherton Tablelands, lush with local wildlife and cool crisp air, you will find our Malanda campus. The Country Manor Campus operates out of a grand old Guesthouse, which makes studying here feel like a country retreat.

You can escape all distractions and stay while studying at the Malanda Campus through CTA’s Rural Residential study mode. Stay in one of the nine guest bedrooms that we’ve decorated in period décor.

Located five kilometres from Malanda town centre, this tranquil place is the perfect setting to gain a nationally accredited qualification (you can even check out our baby chicks while you’re there).

Let us take care of the rest while you focus on what’s important. Sip tea from fine bone china and enjoy fresh hearty country meals while mingling with like-minded students after a rewarding day of learning.

Relax with a game of pool, use our exercise machines after class or take a walk in the fresh country air. Feel inspired to learn and let nothing distract you at our Malanda Country Manor Campus.

Amenities & Facilities

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

Malanda

Gold Coast

The Cafe Campus Address: 235 Varsity Pde, Varsity Lakes, Gold Coast, QLD 4227 Phone: 07 5562 5000 Email: goldcoast@cta.edu.au Web: www.cta.edu.au/campuses/gold-coast

The Gold Coast Campus is situated in Varsity Lakes, just 10 minutes from beautiful beaches. At the Café Campus you will find top notch coffee and cake next to a beautiful, spacious and contemporary student lounge.

There is something to suit everyone at the Café Campus. We’ve designed it with six large lecture rooms, garden terrace

study areas, and a specialised counselling department.

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, surfing beaches, and rainforest hinterlands nearby, the Gold Coast is a perfect place for you to enrol in one of our nationally accredited courses.

Amenities & Facilities

Drop into any campus, anytime for a tour!

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Study Tours

Be a traveller and not a tourist with a CTA Study Tour. Help orphaned children in Cambodia, learn from elite Nanny Schools in the UK or follow the paths walked by the Apostles in Ancient Greece.

Anyone with a qualification, industry experience, or studying Counselling, Youth Work or Child Care is welcome to join a CTA Study Tour.

You can gain invaluable professional experience while earning module accreditation towards a diploma in Counselling, Youth Work or Child Care. These Study Tours are a brilliant opportunity to develop your professional skills and expand your employment opportunities.

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CAMBODIA

UNITED KINGDOM

GREECE

This is a 3-week Humanitarian Study Tour in Cambodia, where you can get hands-on experience working with disadvantaged children in the area of Youth Work or Counselling. Work in a local orphanage and provide professional care to children and youths living in poverty.

Learn how to be a Nanny in elite London Colleges. The colleges where we do our placement provide expert nanny care to families in the UK (they’re so good at what they do that their nannies even work for the Royal family). This is a 3-week Study Tour to either Norland College or Chiltern Nanny College.

Follow the paths walked by the Apostles in a life changing 10-day Study Tour in Ancient Greece. By tracking the Apostles’ steps, you’ll start a journey that strengthens your understanding of spiritual challenges, while learning how to provide prayer counselling to clients.

Terms & Conditions Must hold a current Blue Card or a Working with Children Check, if traveling to Cambodia or the UK. Must hold a current passport that does not expire in less than 6 months’ time. Some assessment items to be completed on return from tour to gain accreditation.

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uilt in 1890, the charm of this bygone era brings echoes of the old world era into today as it blends seamlessly with our modern facilities.

in the crispness of the fresh Mole Creek air. You can sit by the fireplace in our dining room while you enjoy our heveanly, hearty food.

Surrounded with beautiful views, amazing food and a relaxing atmosphere, the Mole Creek Guesthouse is the perfect setting to create an unforgettable getaway.

Take in the gorgeous views of the snowcapped Western Tiers mountain range, or venture further afield to Cradle Mountain and other popular attractions from the Guesthouse.

For more information about the Guesthouse and to check availabilities visit www.molecreekguesthouse.com.au or call 03 6363 1399.

Since it’s home to the Pepperberry Café, barista style coffee, homemade cakes and delicious warm treats are conveniently close. Come visit us in Tasmania, and bask

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

Looking for a romantic retreat, a country experience or an adrenalin packed adventure? The Mole Creek Guesthouse ideally situated in Tasmania’s Meander Valley and is perfectly suited for all types of getaways.

The

Mole Creek Guesthouse & Pepperberry Café

THE

PEPPERBERRY CAFE

Meander Valley Corporate Retreat Do you need to create a strategic plan, build group cohesion or launch a project? It is unlikely that these matters will be solved in a one or two-hour meeting; which is why many companies choose to hold an annual corporate retreat.

W

ith two large meeting rooms, a mix of standard and deluxe accommodation, and gourmet catering, the Meander Valley Retreat is ideal for all business getaways (such as meetings and corporate retreats). Located at the beautiful Mole Creek Guesthouse, we specialise in tailor-made corporate retreats and day-delegate programs.

business needs covered. Our trainers can add professional guidance and assistance to your specific business needs or provide specialised professional development (where we can provide training to your workforce).

Call us on 03 6363 1399 or mobile 0437 765 592 to get in contact with our friendly staff and let us create a retreat that meets your specific company needs.

Whatever your company wants to achieve, you can accomplish it at our beautiful boutique corporate retreat venue.

With travel coordinators, chauffeurs, massage therapists, plus qualified facilitators and trainers, we have all your

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Vist us at www.zoomlearning.com.au

Your pace...at your place RTO# 31905

Take control of your career with our newly developed learning platform Zoom Learning is a flexible training platform dedicated to ensuring that students have access to quality education to prepare them for a new career or to increase their promotion potential. With flexible learning options and an innovative education system upskilling yourself or your workforce has never been so affordable and accessible.

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Your Pace

Your Place

Your Future

At Zoom Learning, you get to study at your own pace. Study fast, study slow! You can choose your pathway.

We study best in our comfy spots: the couch, at home, or on a beanbag with the family pets by our side.

Zoom Learning offers you a dynamic learning environment.

Our qualifications can help you get to where you want to go.

You have 12 to 24 months to complete your qualification.

With Zoom Learning, you can study where ever you like.

Do you want a pathway to university study?

Plus, you can commence and complete your assessment in your own time (just ask us more).

We’re also available at our Zoom-In Centres for you, with: • Computer labs • Quiet study spaces • Wireless internet • Booking a tutorial with an on-site educator

Would you like more in your career?

Talk to us. At Zoom Learning, we cater for many diverse education needs.

Another creative initiative from Community Training Australia

This qualification helps develop skills and prepare workers for a management role. The skills that are learnt and perfected in this diploma can boost employment and promotion opportunities. Upskill your workforce or yourself with this qualification and gain crucial skills that are fundamental in meeting enterprise requirements.

Potential Jobs: • Business Manager • Human Resource Manager • Sales Team Manager • Project Manager • Operations Manager

HLT57715 Diploma Practice Management

With this qualification, start a rewarding career that perfectly blends business management and health care. Gain the skills to manage the administration and operations of small to medium sized health practices and excel in all areas of practice management.

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

BSB51915 Diploma Leadership & Management

The

Interested in becoming a manager and entrepreneur, leader or coordinator? Find what you’re looking for in these contemporary courses.

Potential Jobs: • Practice Manager • Senior Clinical Coder • Medical Records Team Leader • Health HR Supervisor • Health Services Supervisor

Gain a nationally recognised qualification and introduce yourself to a world of opportunities!

For more information on Zoom Learning or the qualifications offered visit: www.zoomlearning.com.au 07 4417 6001 enquiries@zoomlearning.com.au 15

Ultimate Career Guide to a more employable you!

The

The Help Hub offers a wide range of specialised counselling services to individuals, families and communities. With an ethos of fairness and equality, the Help Hub aims to support all people in the community to achieve positive and long-lasting outcomes through quality counselling and mediation regardless of age, gender, lifestyle, cultural background or religious belief.

counsellors can help parents work towards a mutual result that holds their children’s best interests at heart.

The Help Hub offers services in the following areas:

Mediation and Counselling Fees per person:

The Help Hub can assist separating families to develop parenting arrangements or provide the certification required to resolve family issues via the courts.

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Counselling

•

Relationship Counselling

•

Mediation Services

•

Family Dispute Resolution (Mediation)

$100

$20

$0 - $30,000

•

Child and Adolescent Support

$110

$30

$30,001 - $50,000

•

Alcohol and Other Drug Support

$120

$50

$50,001 - $80,000

•

Rural and Remote Skype and other Counselling

$140

$70

$80,001 - $100,000

$160

$90

$100,001 - $120,000

$200

$110

$120,001 and above

If you are experiencing conflict, whether it is in your workplace or your home, let the experts at The Help Hub help you find a solution.

Supporting Families in Need Mediation is a structured, supportive negotiation process of open communication and expert guidance that considers individual’s values, issues and concerns. Family Dispute Resolution involves mediating for families undergoing separation.

Hourly rate Mediation

Hourly rate Counselling

Gross Annual Income

The Help Hub Services

Approx. Hrs per session

Pre-mediation appointment

1 Hour 30 Mins

Mediation (Joint Session)

3 Hours

Drafting Agreements

2 Hours

Skype Counselling & Mediation

As per face-to-face rate

Phone enquiry

Free

The role of The Help Hub is to empower clients to work together to find their own solutions. Our qualified

07 4409 2795 16

264 Ross River Road, Townsville www.thehelphub.com.au

MAY 2016

ISSUE

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WHO DO YOU KNOW IN THIS MONTH’S DUO? May 2016 DUOMagazine

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MUM -PRENEURS MAKING THEIR MARK ON

TOWNSVILLE

STYLIST STACEY MORRISON. PHOTOGR APHER M ATTHEW GI ANOULIS.

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DUOMagazine May 2016

DUOMumpreneurs

KIM BAKER 37 BUSINESS: BOHEME SKIN + BODY, REFINERY BEAUTY BAR. CHILD: CARTER 1. I HAVE SUCH AN AMAZING TEAM AND SALON MANAGER THAT I’VE BEEN LUCKY TO HAVE BEEN GIVEN LOTS OF SPACE THIS FIRST YEAR TO FOCUS ON CARTER AND BE ABLE TO WORK AND PLAN FROM HOME. I’M NOW REALLY FOCUSSED DURING THE SHORT TIMES THAT CARTER IS AWAY FROM ME, MORE PRODUCTIVE AND USING THE TIME WISELY. BEING A MUM MEANS SLOWING LIFE DOWN TO ENJOY THE GROWTH AND CHANGES THAT CARTER GOES THROUGH DAILY AND WATCHING HIS PERSONALITY SHINE.

MONIQUE FLORES 42 BUSINESS: NORTHERN SKIN STUDIO. CHILD: GABRIEL 10. WHEN I WAS PREGNANT I’D PLAY BABY MOZART FOR HIS BABY BRAIN AND IMAGINED HE WOULD BE ABLE TO SPEAK THREE LANGUAGES

BY AGE OF TWO. SO THAT IMAGE IS JUST SO HILARIOUS TO ME BECAUSE NOW I’M JUST HAPPY IF HE BRUSHES HIS TEETH WITHOUT BEING ASKED. I THINK GOING TO WORK IS SO MUCH EASIER THAN STAYING HOME WITH CHILDREN. I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE A JOB WHICH IS FLEXIBLE SO I CAN ADJUST MY SCHEDULE AROUND HOME LIFE. NOT MANY WORKING MOTHERS HAVE THAT OPTION. GABE’S MY NUMBER ONE FAVOURITE PERSON. YOU WILL ALWAYS LOVE THEM MORE THAN ANYONE.

NATASHA WHITESIDE 44

BRIGOT PUGH 41 BUSINESS: BRIGOTZ HAIR WITH EDGE. CHILDREN: DANTE 7, TAYTUM 5. I LOVE THAT MY CHILDREN ARE VERY CONFIDENT AND LOVE BEING THEMSELVES. THEY LOVE DOING A LOT OF SILLY THINGS LIKE DANCING CRAZILY, SINGING AND BEING LOUD AND PROUD. I JOIN IN AND WE ALL ENJOY EACH OTHER’S COMPANY. THE THREE OF US HAVE SO MUCH FUN AND IT MAKES ME FEEL AND BE A CHILD AGAIN. BEING A MUM MEANS BEING A PARENT FIRST AND ALSO BEST MATES WITH MY CHILDREN. IT’S NOT A CHORE! I LOVE TO BE ADVENTUROUS, PLAYING SPORT, NEW FOODS, TRAVELLING AND MOST OF ALL HAVE FUN.

BUSINESS: GJ GARDNER TOWNSVILLE. CHILD: ELLA 12. I KNEW MY LIFE WOULD CHANGE DRASTICALLY; AND YET, I REALLY HAD NO IDEA AT ALL. ELLA HAS DEVELOPED A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOUR OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS AND I DO ENJOY A GOOD LAUGH WITH HER. I LOVE THAT SHE CAN LAUGH AT HERSELF. I WRITE LOTS OF REMINDERS AND EMAILS TO MYSELF AND MAKE SURE THAT EVERY SO OFTEN THERE IS SOME TIME OUT JUST FOR ME. NOTHING WORTH HAVING COMES EASY. IT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING JOB IN THE WORLD, YET UNDOUBTEDLY THE MOST REWARDING.

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOMumpreneurs

NATALENE CARTER BUSINESS: RID AUSTRALIA. CHILDREN: PATRICK 15, LUCINDA 13. I LOVE OUR CONVERSATIONS AND LISTENING TO THEIR INSIGHTS ON LIFE. THE MOST RECENT OF INSIGHTS WAS A QUOTE OF THE DAY COMMENT, SHARED ON THE WAY TO SCHOOL WITH “MUM, IF YOU’RE THE BEST IN THE ROOM YOU NEED TO FIND A NEW ROOM” AND CONFIRMED

BY CONVERSATIONS AROUND THE IMPORTANCE TO KEEP LEARNING AND STRETCHING YOURSELF. I DON’T KNOW WHEN IT HAPPENED OR HOW BUT I MUST BE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT. BEING A MUM MEANS I’LL HAVE SOMEONE TO LOOK AFTER ME WHEN I CAN NO LONGER BATH, FEED OR DRESS MYSELF. JUST KIDDING... SERIOUSLY I’M JUST LIKE ANY OTHER MUM, PROUD AND HAPPY TO BE A MUM.

SARAH ARNOLD BUSINESS: CAMERON&CO. CHILDREN: TOM 27, HAMISH 25, CHARLOTTE 22, HARRIET 21, BEATRICE 8. I WAS ALWAYS DYING TO NURTURE INFANTS BUT READY TO SET OFF ON AN ADVENTURE WITH NO SET EXPECTATIONS OF WHAT MAY OR MAY NOT HAPPEN. FINDING A ‘BALANCE’ IS NOT SOMETHING I ASPIRE TO BECAUSE SOMETHING ALWAYS HAS TO GIVE SO I MAKE IT UP AS I GO ALONG BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. BEING A MUM MEANS EXPECTING THE UNEXPECTED AND HAVING FUN.

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DUOMagazine May 2016

KAREN TORPELUND 56

ANNA NICHOLLS 44

BUSINESS: SALT THERAPY NQ. CHILDREN: MATTHEW 28, BRENDAN 24, ANDREW 22, JAMIE 16. OVER THE YEARS IT HAS BEEN AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE TO SHARE MY BOYS HIGHS AND LOWS AND WATCHING THEM GROW AND DEVELOP INTO THE WONDERFUL YOUNG MEN THAT THEY HAVE BECOME. FINDING BALANCE CAN BE CHALLENGING. HAVING A SUPPORTIVE AND HELPFUL HUSBAND MAKES IT SO MUCH EASIER. BEING A MUM MEANS LIFE IS NEVER DULL!

BUSINESS: NORTH QUEENSLAND THERAPY SERVICES AND GRADUATE SCHOOL OF MOTORING. CHILDREN: ANGUS 10, MAX 9, THOMAS 9, ARABELLA 2. I LOVE BEING A MOTHER. WHEN I GOT MARRIED I REMEMBER SAYING I WAS GOING TO HAVE FOUR OR FIVE CHILDREN. THAT MARRIAGE BROKE UP, THEN I MET HEATH. IF I WAS YOUNGER I WOULD HAVE HAD ONE MORE. I HAD THE BOYS ALMOST ALL AT ONCE. THREE CHILDREN IN 13 MONTHS, SO THERE IS A COUPLE OF YEARS OF COMPLETE AMNESIA. BEING A MUM MEANS SHARING LESSONS AND VALUES NOW THAT WILL TAKE YOU THROUGH LIFE. BEING A MUM MEANS LOVE!!

DUOStyle

LYDIA RIGANO 43 BUSINESS: FULHAM CONSULTING. CHILDREN: SIENNA 10, OSCAR 8. SOME DAYS I’VE NAILED IT AND OTHERS UNHINGED, SPREAD TOO THIN. WHAT HELPS? BEING CLEAR ABOUT MY VALUES AND MAKING CHOICES THAT ARE CONGRUENT WITH THEM, AND TO-DO LISTS AND DAILY SCHEDULES. BEING A MUM MEANS YOUR LIFE COMES SECOND. IT IS UNRELENTING AND INVOLVES THE FULL SPECTRUM OF EMOTIONS FROM SHEER JOY AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE TO HEART BREAK, EXHAUSTION AND MOTHERGUILT. BEING A MUM IS A PRIVILEGE. I’M BLESSED.

KYLIE BARTLETT 38 BUSINESS: KIM BARTLETT MASTER JEWELLERS AND WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT. CHILDREN: LILY 11, HARPER 10. BEING A MUM MEANS TAKING ON ONE OF THE MOST PRECIOUS JOBS IN THE WORLD… BEING A CARETAKER (FOR A VERY SHORT TIME) OF THE FUTURE, TEACHING THEM TO LOVE AND LETTING MY CHILDREN KNOW EVERYDAY, “I LOVE YOU FOREVER, LOVE YOU FOR ALWAYS, AS LONG AS I’M LIVING MY BABY YOU’LL BE.“ (A SONG WE STILL SING, FROM THE PICTURE BOOK ‘LOVE YOU FOREVER’ BY ANTHONY LEWIS.

LISA LEONARDI 48 BUSINESS: BOQ CASTLETOWN. CHILDREN: SAM 20, JOSH 17, BEN 16, LUCIA 8. BEING A MUM IS VERY REWARDING YET CHALLENGING AT THE SAME TIME.I COME FROM A VERY STRONG LINE OF WOMEN WHERE WHEN I WAS YOUNG, MY NANA, MUM AND AUNT PLAYED A BIG PART IN MY LIFE. I LEARNED MANY LESSONS BUT THE ONES THAT RESONATE IS TO BELIEVE IN MYSELF AND STAND UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN! BEING A MUM MEANS THAT YOU NEVER STOP LEARNING. LIFE IS NEVER BORING AND YOU GET TO WITNESS SOME AMAZING MOMENTS AS YOUR CHILDREN GROW.

SALLY GRACIE 37 BUSINESS: COCO HOUSE – CASTLETOWN AND STOCKLAND. CHILDREN: SAM 8, ROSE 5. MOTHERHOOD IS A WHOLE LOT MORE THAN I EVER IMAGINED IT WOULD BE. I REALLY HAD NO IDEA WHAT I WAS GETTING IN FOR. SUDDENLY YOU HAVE THIS LITTLE PERSON WHO YOU LOVE MORE THAN LIFE ITSELF AND EVERYTHING CHANGES. IT’S BOTH AMAZING AND CHALLENGING ALL AT ONCE. I THOUGHT KIDS WOULD JUST FIT INTO MY LIFE, BUT USUALLY I FEEL I AM FITTING INTO THEIRS. BEING A MUM MEANS HAPPINESS, HUGS AND KISSES, A LOT OF WORK, LOVE AND MORE LOVE. May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOMumpreneurs

JOANNA MURRAY 42 BUSINESS: ACCESS THERAPY SERVICES. CHILD: ELIOT 20. I THINK THAT HAVING ELIOT SO YOUNG (AGED 21) THREW ME INTO MOTHERHOOD WITHOUT MUCH PREPARATION AND I HAD MOVED FROM ENGLAND TO AUSTRALIA THE YEAR BEFORE. I FEEL A SENSE OF PRIDE WHEN I LOOK AT ELIOT BUT ALSO I HAVE A CONSTANT SENSE OF WORRY – WILL HE MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES AND ULTIMATELY WILL HE BE HAPPY WITH HIS LIFE? BEING A MUM MEANS BEING A ROLE MODEL TO YOUR KIDS AND TEACHING THEM THAT ALTHOUGH LIFE IS NEVER PERFECT THERE IS A LIFE LESSON TO LEARN AND GROW FROM.

LEANNE SCOTT 47 BUSINESS: PURE CORE NOURISHMENT PTY LTD. CHILDREN: SAM 11, LANE 10. THERE IS NO GREATER LIFE LESSON THAN MOTHERHOOD! YOU GROW IN WAYS YOU NEVER THOUGHT POSSIBLE AND THE EXPERIENCE GUIDES YOU TO BE A BETTER HUMAN BEING. I ALWAYS SAY MY CHILDREN ARE MY GREATEST TEACHERS AND I’M GRATEFUL TO BE BLESSED BY THEM EVERYDAY. THE MOMENTS WHEN MY CHILDREN ASK ME ALL THE BIG QUESTIONS – ABOUT GOD, DEATH, LOVE, SEX AND THE MOMENTS WHEN THEY PERFORM AN INCREDIBLE ACT OF SPONTANEOUS KINDNESS. MAKES ME FEEL LIKE I’VE EARNED MY MOTHERHOOD WINGS FOR THE DAY. BEING A MUM MEANS PURE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.

CAMILLE FLORES 34 BUSINESS: ESSENTIALLY FRESH. CHILDREN: PIPPA 2, OLIVER 5 MONTHS. OUR LITTLE DAUGHTER PIPPA KEEPS US ON OUR TOES. SHE MAKES US LAUGH AND COMPLETELY SHOCKS US. MUM GAVE ME LOTS OF ADVICE WHEN MY DAUGHTER WAS BORN AS IT WAS MY FIRST CHILD AND I WANTED TO DO EVERYTHING RIGHT. MUM WAS VERY RELAXED AND TAUGHT ME LOTS OF THINGS FROM FEEDING TO SLEEP ROUTINES. I REALLY WISH MUM WAS STILL AROUND NOW WITH OLIVER AS THERE ARE STILL SO MANY THINGS I WANT TO ASK HER. BEING A MUM MEANS CHILDREN ARE PART OF A MOTHERS SOUL.

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DUOMagazine May 2016

ZITA BOYD 39 BUSINESS: TOTAL LANDWORKS. CHILDREN: MALAIKA 11, MAHALIA 7, JAGGER-RAY 3.

RECENTLY WE WENT TO BALI AND EVERYDAY WAS SPECIAL BECAUSE WE WERE AWAY FROM THE PRESSURES OF THE BUSINESS AND WE COULD JUST RELAX. NO RUSH, NO COMPUTERS, NO PHONE CALLS, JUST US ABSORBING EVERY MINUTE WITH EACH OTHER. I COULD JUST WATCH MY KIDS, I COULD ENJOY THEIR COMPANY WITHOUT INTERRUPTIONS, WE COULD JUST ‘BE’.

BEING A MUM MEANS AN ENDLESS TUG OF WAR BETWEEN I’M GONNA LOOSE MY MIND TO I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU.

JANNA BAUER 35

MARIA PANDALAI 39

TAMARA PEDLEY 33

BUSINESS: BAUER CONSTRUCTIONS. CHILDREN: SIARA 6, ZAIDE 4. YOU DON’T REALISE HOW MUCH HARD WORK IT IS UNTIL YOU HAVE CHILDREN. MY CHILDREN MAKE ME BURST WITH PRIDE EVERY TIME THEY DO SOMETHING SPECIAL. I’M FINDING MY LIFE/ WORK BALANCE IS GETTING EASIER AS MY CHILDREN GET OLDER AND ARE BECOMING A LITTLE MORE INDEPENDENT. BEING A MUM MEANS EVERYTHING TO ME – I LOVE WATCHING THEM GROW INTO LITTLE PEOPLE.

BUSINESS: SELF EMPLOYED TRAVEL CONSULTANT WITH TRAVELMANAGERS. CHILDREN: MAYA 4, KRISHNAN 2. WORKING FULL TIME, I DO SOMETIMES FIND IT DIFFICULT BALANCING ALL ASPECTS OF MY LIFE. THEREFORE, I ALLOCATE FAMILY TIME BEFORE AND AFTER WORK AND ALL WEEKEND. I ALSO FIND TIME FOR “ME” WHICH I THINK IS VERY IMPORTANT. BEING A MUM MEANS BEING A ROLE MODEL FOR MY CHILDREN BY PROVIDING THEM WITH THE BEST POSSIBLE GUIDANCE SO THEY CAN MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES IN LIFE. TEACHING THEM TO BE KIND TO OTHERS AND SHOWING OTHERS RESPECT ARE HIGH ON MY LIST.

BUSINESS: CAPELLI HAIR GALLERY. CHILDREN: WILLIAM 3.5, BLAKE 21 MONTHS. WELCOMING OUR SECOND CHILD WAS A VERY SPECIAL FAMILY MOMENT. SEEING OUR TWO BOYS BOND AS BROTHERS HAS BEEN AMAZING AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO EXPERIENCING IT ALL AGAIN SOON WHEN BABY NUMBER THREE ARRIVES. IT’S HARD WORK BUT BEING ORGANISED AND HAVING A CLOSE SUPPORTIVE NETWORK IS VERY IMPORTANT. I THINK BEING KIND TO YOURSELF AND NOT FEELING GUILTY ABOUT HAVING RESPONSIBILITIES OUTSIDE OF YOUR FAMILY IS THE ONLY WAY TO ACHIEVE A GOOD BALANCE.

KAREN QUAGLIATA 39 BUSINESS: NORTHERN TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES. CHILDREN: KYA MAREE 9, KHLOE LEE 5. MOTHERHOOD IS EVERYTHING I IMAGINED AND THEN MORE. MOTHERHOOD I BELIEVE GAVE ME OPPORTUNITY. IT IS A GROWTH PHASE, YOU BECOME SELFLESS, AND YOU BECOME CHALLENGED IN A WAY YOU NEVER HAVE EXPERIENCED BEFORE. YOUR PRIORITIES COMPLETELY CHANGE, AND ALL OF A SUDDEN, 100% RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS LITTLE HUMAN. I STILL, TO THIS DAY, PINCH MYSELF THAT I AM A MOTHER OF THESE TWO HEALTHY, BEAUTIFUL GIRLS AND I HOPE TO SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR THEM GROWING UP. IT IS INCREDIBLY CHALLENGING BUILDING A BUSINESS WITH LITTLE ONES, BUT IF YOU LEARN HOW TO BE MORE EFFICIENT WITH YOUR TIME, AND NOT WASTE IT ON MEANINGLESS TASKS, THEN YOU WILL ACHIEVE MORE AS TIME GOES BY. SCHEDULING WEEKLY TASKS (SHOPPING, CLEANING ETC) WAS ALSO IMPORTANT TO ME TO STAY ON TOP OF EVERYTHING FOR I ALWAYS TRY TO BE AS ORGANISED AS POSSIBLE.

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOMumpreneurs

TANYA ROBERTS 43 BUSINESS: MICHEL’S RESTAURANT. CHILDREN: MAJELLA 16, HARRIET 15, THOMAS 13. I HAVE ALWAYS WORKED FROM HOME BEFORE BUYING THE RESTAURANT. THE CHILDREN AND JOHN HAVE ALWAYS HAD ME AVAILABLE, SO THE TRANSITION WAS A BIG ONE FOR ALL OF US. RUNNING A RESTAURANT AND CATERING BUSINESS IS SERIOUSLY BUSY WITH LONG HOURS. WHEN I FIRST STARTED AT MICHEL’S THE GUILT THAT I FELT WAS HEARTBREAKING AND I REALLY STRUGGLED WITH BEING AWAY FROM THE FAMILY. JOHN WAS FANTASTIC AND TOOK ON A LOT TO HELP ME COPE WITH THE TRANSITION. YOUR CHILDREN ARE GOING TO HAVE A LOT OF INFLUENCES IN THEIR LIFE, SO MAKE SURE YOU’RE THE BIGGEST.

PETA JOHNSTON 30 BUSINESS: BODY TORQUE HEALTH AND FITNESS. CHILDREN: JORDAN 4.5, TIFFANY 2.5.

LIFE BALANCE IS SOMETHING THAT WE WORK HARD TO CREATE AND ANYONE RUNNING THEIR OWN BUSINESS AND HAS SMALL CHILDREN UNDERSTANDS THAT CAN BE REALLY CHALLENGING AT TIMES TO ACHIEVE. AS OUR BUSINESS GREW IT BECAME VITAL THAT WE MADE TIME FOR FAMILY AWAY FROM WORK. I MAKE TIME TO RECHARGE THE BATTERIES AND ENJOY LIFE WITH MY KIDS AND HUSBAND REGULARLY.

LEIGH-ANNE SIMMS 35 BUSINESS: ENVISION HEALTH NATUROPATHIC CLINIC. CHILDREN: JAMIE 8, NINA 6. TO BE HONEST I AM A LITTLE OUT OF BALANCE AT THE MOMENT, RUNNING MY OWN BUSINESS, HAVING KIDDIES AND BEING A WIFE THERE IS JUST NOT MUCH TIME LEFT FOR ME, BUT WHAT I REALLY ENJOY IS GOING FOR A WALK ALONG THE STRAND AND BEING IN NATURE, THIS REALLY HELPS ME TO REJUVENATE AND GAIN PERSPECTIVE AGAIN. AND READING A GOOD BOOK. BEING A MUM MEANS BEING SELFLESS, THERE IS NOTHING I WOULD NOT DO FOR THEM.

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DUOMagazine May 2016

MIRANDA KELLY 45 BUSINESS: HALL’S FIREARMS. CHILDREN: TOM 16, ANNABEL 13. AS THE JOHN DENVER SONG GOES “SOME DAYS ARE DIAMONDS – SOME DAYS ARE STONE”... RUNNING A BUSINESS WITH MY HUSBAND AND BRINGING UP CHILDREN HAS HAD ITS MOMENTS BUT I HAVE MANAGED TO SCRAPE THOUGH 10 YEARS WITHOUT LOSING MY MIND (ALMOST ANYWAY). I MOVED MY OFFICE HOME A FEW YEARS BACK AND THAT HAS MADE IT EASIER TO MULTI TASK. IT IS STILL A THREE RING CIRCUS BUT AN ENTERTAINING ONE AT THAT.

LISA FRALEY 39 BUSINESS: TECHNIQUES HAIR/TAN/ BARBER. CHILDREN: LILY 9, JASMINE 6.

WHEN WE WERE ON A HOLIDAY A STRANGER CAME UP TO ME AND TOLD ME MY KIDS HAD TOLD HER THEIR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THEIR HOLIDAY WAS SPENDING TIME WITH MUM AND DAD, NOT THE KIDS CLUB OR THE BEACH. IT MADE ME REALISE THAT THERE ARE TIMES THAT YOU MUST FORGET ABOUT WORK AND FOCUS ON THEM. WHAT’S BALANCE? THE WEEK WHEN YOU THINK EVERYTHING IS GOING SMOOTH THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING UNEXPECTED, BEING SUPER ORGANISED AND DEEP BREATHING ARE MY STRATEGIES.

ADDIE JONES 37 BUSINESS: PROGRESS THERAPY SOLUTIONS. CHILDREN: HARPER 6, IVY 4, REMI 1. I THINK MOST MOTHERS WOULD AGREE BALANCE IS A CHALLENGE AND SOMETHING WE’RE ALL STRIVING TOWARDS. AS A MOTHER OF THREE LITTLE GIRLS I FEEL EVEN MORE CHALLENGED TO FIND THIS BALANCE AND SHOW THEM WOMEN CAN HAVE A SUCCESSFUL WORK LIFE, HOLD SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIPS AND RAISE A FAMILY. I HAVE LEARNT THAT I CAN ONLY DO SO MUCH AND HAVE A WONDERFUL SUPPORT NETWORK AROUND ME AT HOME AND WORK WHICH I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR. FOR ME IT’S HUMBLING, IT’S EXHAUSTING. AN INCREDIBLY REWARDING JOURNEY FILLED WITH HIGHS, LOWS AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.

HANNAH LEITH 31 BUSINESS: 121 CREATIVE TOWNSVILLE. CHILD: COOPER 20 MONTHS. YOU HEAR IN THE MEDIA THAT WORKING MOTHERS ARE TRYING TO HAVE IT ALL, THAT THEY COULDN’T POSSIBLY BE GIVING FULL ATTENTION TO EVERY FACET. I THINK IT’S TRUE, THE JUGGLING ACT IS INCREDIBLE AND OCCASIONALLY I DROP A BALL. BUT I’VE FOUND THE KEY IS TO FOCUS ON JUGGLING ONLY A COUPLE OF BALLS AT A TIME, HAVING AN AMAZING SUPPORT NETWORK WHO HELP TO KEEP THE OTHER BALLS IN THE AIR. JUST ASK. STRONG WOMEN CAN DO ANYTHING, BUT THEY STILL ASK FOR HELP WHEN THEY NEED IT.

CHRISTINA PAUL 33 BUSINESS: COSMETIC CREATIONS BY BLUSH. CHILDREN: SONNY 17MONTHS. EACH DAY HEARING SONNY SAY “MUMMA” NEVER GETS OLD AND NEVER WILL. EVERYDAY FACES ITS CHALLENGES TO BALANCE BOTH BEING A MUM AND BUILDING AND RUNNING MY OWN BUSINESS. SINCE HAVING SONNY, THE ONLY WAY I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO CONTINUE WITH MY CAREER IS BECAUSE OF THE AMAZING SUPPORT I HAVE FROM BOTH MY MOTHER AND PARTNER. A LOT OF PLANNING AND BEING STRICT WITH MY TIME MANAGEMENT IS KEY TO BALANCE BOTH LIFESTYLES. May 2016 DUOMagazine

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JOSEPHINE CARTER 28

TANYA FIGG 46

NATALIE GRIFFITHS 33

BUSINESS: JOSEPHINE CARTER PHOTOGRAPHY. CHILD: EMIL 3. I LITERALLY HAVE TO PLAN MY WEEKS IN ADVANCE. I HAVE THE FREEDOM OF HAVING MY OWN PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS, SO I TRY TO SPEND AS MUCH TIME AS POSSIBLE WITH MY SON DURING THE DAY. WHEN HE IS ASLEEP I DO ALL MY COMPUTER WORK. IT IS CHALLENGING SOMETIMES BUT I THINK I MANAGE MY DAYS QUIET CALMLY AND HAVING A PLAN B IS ALWAYS HELPFUL. BEING A MUM CHANGES THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY AND THE WORLD. IT TEACHES YOU THINGS YOU NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT BEFORE AND IT SHOWS YOU UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.

BUSINESS: LA PETITE BOUDOIR. CHILDREN: JOSHUA 17, DOMENIC 15, CLAUDIA 13.

BOTH MY HUSBAND AND I ARE THE ELDEST SIBLINGS AND WE WERE THE FIRST TO HAVE CHILDREN. I KNEW IT WOULD BE TIRING BUT REWARDING. I DIDN’T REALISE I WOULD STILL BE EXHAUSTED AND TIRED 17 YEARS LATER. LIFE BALANCE? TO BE HONEST I FEEL LIKE I FAIL EITHER ONE OR ALL EVERY DAY! MY STRATEGY IS TO UNDERSTAND I’M NOT PERFECT AND I CAN’T BE EVERYTHING TO EVERYONE ALL THE TIME. WHAT I CAN DO IS SELF REFLECT AND THINK ABOUT HOW I CAN DO THINGS BETTER. BEING A MUM IS LIKE BEING ON A ROLLER-COASTER RIDE BUT NEVER WANTING TO GET OFF.

BUSINESS: FAD CHEER AND DANCE TOWNSVILLE. CHILDREN: CHAD 12, MYAJAYNE 9, KARRINGTYN 6, KAMRYN 6. MY SON WAS A FANTASTIC BABY AND LIFE WAS DEFINITELY ALL SMILES AND RAINBOWS. THEN ALONG CAME THE SECOND AND THEN WHAT WE THOUGHT WOULD BE ONE MORE TURNED OUT TO BE TWO. NEEDLESS TO SAY I HAVEN’T SEEN A RAINBOW IN A WHILE. I’M VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE FANTASTIC SUPPORT FROM MY PARENTS, MY MUM ESPECIALLY AND FRIENDS WHO HAVE HELPED MAKE OUR HECTIC LIFE A LOT EASIER. MY MOTHER’S GUIDANCE AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE HAS GIVEN ME THE STRENGTH AND ABILITY TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF MYSELF.

RENAI COOK 39 BUSINESS: TOWNSVILLE FLOWER MARKET AND WEDDING WORKS. CHILDREN: AMAYA 7, KAILEY 11. MOTHERHOOD IS A BLAST! IT HASN’T BEEN ANYTHING LIKE I EVER IMAGINED BUT IN A GOOD WAY. IT HAS BEEN AMAZING WATCHING THESE LITTLE GIRLS EVOLVE THEIR OWN PERSONA’S AND PERSONALITIES. EVEN AFTER A TOUGH DAY, THEY CAN ALWAYS MAKE ME SMILE. I AM A SINGLE MUM, SO I RELY A LOT ON MY PARENTS AND SISTER TO JUGGLE THE LOAD, BUT IT WORKS. I THINK THE WORD ‘BALANCE’ IS DIFFERENT FOR EVERY FAMILY. AS LONG AS YOUR FAMILY ARE HAPPY AND HEALTHY, YOU JUST KEEP JUGGLING AND BUILDING AND ADJUSTING AS NEEDED. MUM GIVES ME ADVICE DAILY. WE ARE BUSINESS PARTNERS ALSO SO I OFF LOAD A LOT ONTO MUM ON A REGULAR BASIS. I THINK SOME OF THE BEST ADVICE SHE HAS GIVEN ME IS PROBABLY THE ADVICE I DIDN’T WANT TO HEAR AT THE TIME – BUT SHE SAID IT ANYWAY. BEING A MUM MEANS WORKING HARD TO MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS EQUIPPED WITH THE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES TO MAKE YOUR CHILDREN COMPETENT HUMAN BEINGS. BEING A MOTHER IS PERHAPS THE HARDEST, MOST REWARDING JOB I WILL EVER EXPERIENCE.

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KERRY DEAN 37 BUSINESS: SADDLE MOUNTAIN HOMESTEAD. CHILDREN: MATILDA 3.5 AND BILLY 1.5.

BALANCING KIDS AND MY FARM ARE VERY DIFFICULT. IT COMES DOWN TO MAKING SURE THAT THE TIME WE DO SPEND TOGETHER IS QUALITY. ONE DAY A WEEK WE HAVE A FARM FREE DAY AND WE GO TO THE AQUARIUM OR MUSEUM OR SOMETHING TOGETHER. I INVOLVE THEM IN THE FARM JOBS TOO. COLLECTING THE EGGS OR CHECKING GATES EACH ARVO. THEY’LL DO ANYTHING FOR A RIDE ON THE 4 WHEELER! THEY LOVE THE LIFE UP HERE AND IT GIVES THEM GREATER FREEDOM THAN IN THE SUBURBS.

JANELLE DOYLE 48 BUSINESS: MCDONALD’S FAIRFIELD WATERS, NORTH WARD AND TOWNSVILLE CBD. CHILDREN: HARRISON 18, SAVANNAH 16. THE DAYS MY CHILDREN WERE BORN WERE THE HAPPIEST DAYS OF MY LIFE. I HAVE MOMENTS FOR EACH OF THEM; IN 2014 MY SON GRADUATED FROM GRADE 12.

IT WAS SO EMOTIONAL TO SEE HE’D FINISHED SCHOOL AND WAS READY TO BE A YOUNG MAN IN THE WORLD. I WAS VERY PROUD. WHEN MY DAUGHTER STARTED SCHOOL I REMEMBER BEING LOST WITHOUT HER. I‘D LOST MY BABY. ONE DAY SHE SAID TO ME, “MUMMY I WILL NOT GO TO SCHOOL ANYMORE SO YOU ARE NOT SAD”. I KNEW THEN I HAD A FRIEND FOR LIFE.

REBECCA VINSON 33

BELINDA TOOMBY 42 BUSINESS: SIZZAS HAIR AND BEAUTY. CHILDREN: CASH 5. I HAVE SYSTEMS IN PLACE TO KEEP OUR LIVES RUNNING AS SMOOTH AS I CAN. MY GOAL WHEN CASH STARTED SCHOOL WAS TO DROP HIM OFF AND PICK HIM UP EVERYDAY. WHEN I WORK A LATE NIGHT MY HUSBAND JUSTIN IS THERE TO PICK UP OR IF WE ARE BOTH AT WORK WE HAVE MY MUM TO COLLECT HIM. I PREPARE LUNCHES THE NIGHT BEFORE AND PREPARE DINNER IN THE MORNING SO WE MAXIMISE THE TIME WE HAVE TOGETHER AS A FAMILY. BEING A MUM MAKES ME FEEL LIKE EVERY WISH I’VE EVER HAD HAS COME TRUE AND I’M BUSTING TO LET IT OUT.

BUSINESS: WEHLL. CHILDREN: EDEN 19, ELLA 7. BALANCE??? I’M NOT SURE WHAT YOU MEAN! I FORGET ELLA’S LUNCH, DRESS HER IN THE WRONG UNIFORM, FORGET THAT SHE HAS GYMNASTICS COMPETITIONS, ALWAYS TURN UP TO BIRTHDAY PARTIES WITHOUT PRESENTS, ONCE FORGOT TO PAY FOR MY PETROL AND HAD THE POLICE TURN UP AT MY HOUSE (I CAN’T EVEN REMEMBER FILLING UP) AND SOMETIMES HAVE TO SLEEP ON THE FLOOR IN MY CLINIC BETWEEN CLIENTS. BALANCE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS. BUSINESS HAS HAD TO EVOLVE WITH LIFE. THERE IS NO MORE DIFFICULT OR MORE WONDERFUL JOB THAN BEING A MUM! I WOULDN’T CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD! May 2016 DUOMagazine

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KELLY ISAAC 35 BUSINESS: PODIUM HAIR AND BEAUTY. CHILDREN: CARTER 8, ADDISON 5, MYLES 18 MONTHS. I DON’T BELIEVE THERE IS A SECRET RECIPE FOR ACHIEVING A BALANCE BETWEEN EVERYTHING. I THINK WHEN YOU BECOME A MUM YOU NEED TO BE A PLANNER, BE ORGANISED TO THE BEST YOU CAN BE AND TAKE EACH DAY AS IT COMES LIFE CHANGES SO MUCH YOU NEED TO KEEP CHANGING WITH IT. THE BEST ADVICE MY MUM GAVE WAS TO BE STRONG IN WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN. BEING A MUM MEANS EVERY DAY IS A NEW DAY TO CREATE SPECIAL MEMORIES.

CASSANDRA CHIESA 36 BUSINESS: HELPING HANDS – HAND, WRIST AND ARM CLINIC. CHILD: LUCIA 18 MONTHS. WORK/LIFE BALANCE CAN BE A CHALLENGE, BUT ONE THAT I LOVE. THERE ARE DAYS WHEN I’M THE PERFECT MUM, DAYS WHEN I’M THE PERFECT WIFE AND DAYS WHEN I’M THE PERFECT EMPLOYER. BUT THE MAJORITY OF DAYS I AM HAPPY TO BE GOOD ENOUGH AT ALL OF THEM SIMULTANEOUSLY. GOOD ENOUGH IS THE NEW PERFECT, AS THEY SAY. I OUTSOURCE! WE EMPLOY A CLEANER, A GARDENER AND HAVE A WONDERFUL LIVE IN NANNY. THE COMBINATION OF WHICH ALLOWS ME TO CONTINUE TO FOCUS ON MY CLINIC, SPEND LESS TIME DOING CHORES AND MORE TIME WITH MY FAMILY. I’M EXTREMELY GRATEFUL FOR THAT.

DANIELLE TUREK 43

ANN MAREE REID 49 BUSINESS: THAT PLACE ON STURT. CHILDREN: JAKE 25, LUCAS 22. THIS YEAR HAS BEEN THE EASIEST YEAR FOR ME; MY HUSBAND WORKS OVERSEAS AND ONLY GETS HOME EVERY 6 WEEKS FOR A FORTNIGHT AND MY YOUNGEST SON AND HIS FAMILY ARE ON THE GOLD COAST WHILE MY ELDEST SON HAS HIS OWN BUSINESS AND LIVES JUST DOWN THE ROAD FROM ME. SO THAT MEANS WHEN I LEAVE WORK I CAN GO HOME, PUT MY FEET UP FOR A WHILE AND RELAX. FOR ME, BEING A MUM MEANS ALWAYS HAVING TIME FOR YOUR KIDS NO MATTER HOW OLD THEY ARE.

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BUSINESS: TUREK ROAD INTERIORS. CHILDREN: SOPHIE 20, HARRISON 16.

WHEN SOPHIE AND HARRISON WERE YOUNGER, BEING MY OWN BOSS GAVE ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE FLEXIBLE WITH MY WORK COMMITMENTS AND ALSO BE THERE FOR THEM (I RARELY MISSED A SCHOOL SPORTS DAY).

THEY’RE MUCH OLDER NOW AND VERY INDEPENDENT SO MEAL TIME IS OUR FAMILY TIME – LOTS OF FUNNY INAPPROPRIATE CONVERSATIONS. WORKING WITH MY HUSBAND AND WITH SOPHIE NOW STUDYING INTERIOR DESIGN I CAN SHARE THE WORKLOAD – DELEGATE! HOW LUCKY AM I TO HAVE TWO BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY, WONDERFUL CHILDREN (TO LOOK AFTER ME WHEN I’M OLD)?

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ANNE MUSUMECI 38 BUSINESS: DONOHUES. CHILDREN: LEWIS 6, EVE 4, ROSIE 2. I JUST LOVE THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING THEIR ‘GO TO’ PERSON, IT’S A REAL PRIVILEGE AND THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE IS PRETTY AMAZING. AN ELDERLY NEIGHBOUR TOLD US YEARS AGO TO ENJOY THE EARLY YEARS BECAUSE THEY ARE ‘THE GOLDEN YEARS’. DAVID AND I SAY THAT TO EACH OTHER ALL THE TIME, WE FOCUS ON LIVING IN THE MOMENT AND ENJOYING THESE GOLDEN YEARS. I’VE CERTAINLY LEARNT TO BE MORE PATIENT, MORE ORGANISED, AND IN MY PROFESSIONAL LIFE I HAVE LEARNED TO BE BETTER AT DELEGATING. I HAVE AN AMAZING TEAM AT DONOHUES WHO HAVE A REAL PASSION TO KEEP OUR BUSINESS GROWING. I’VE WORKED HARD TO PUT THINGS IN PLACE TO ALLOW ME THE FREEDOM I HAVE NOW. THE KIDS COME INTO DONOHUES REGULARLY SO THEY KNOW ALL ABOUT THE BUSINESS AND WHERE I AM WHEN I’M NOT AT HOME.

DANIELLE BELTRAMELLI 39

ELIZABETH SIMONSEN 51

LUCIA TAYLOR 47

BUSINESS: RED ROOSTER FAIRFIELD WATERS. CHILD: INDIANNA 9. I’M EXTREMELY LUCKY TO HAVE MY WONDERFUL MUM WORKING IN THE STORE WITH ME, SO BETWEEN MYSELF, MY HUSBAND AND MY MUM, WE CAN JUGGLE AROUND MOST SCHOOL, SPORTING AND WORK COMMITMENTS. SOMETIMES IT’S A BIT OF A JUGGLING ACT BUT IT HELPS THAT INDIANNA IS VERY EASY GOING AND DOESN’T MIND COMING INTO WORK WITH ME WHEN NEEDED, SHE EVEN HELPS OUT WITH SOME LITTLE THINGS LIKE CLEANING TABLES. MY MUM ALWAYS SAID YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE THE BEST AT ANYTHING, JUST BE THE BEST PERSON THAT YOU CAN BE.

BUSINESS: FASHION ZEN STYLE. CHILDREN: CONNOR 19 MADDIE 16. I NEVER HAD A GREAT MATERNAL URGE AND WASN’T KEEN ON KIDS. I EXPECTED IT TO BE TIRING, RELENTLESS AND HARD WORK WHICH IT WAS. WHAT I DIDN’T EXPECT WAS THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE I WOULD FEEL FOR THESE TWO GREAT HUMAN BEINGS WHO HAVE BECOME MY BEST FRIENDS. I RAISED THEM TO BE INDEPENDENT AND I STOPPED MAKING THEIR LUNCHES WHEN THEY REACHED HIGH SCHOOL. THEY PITCH IN AND ARE SELF RELIANT. I MAKE TIME FOR DAILY MEDITATION TO CALM ME AND BALANCE THE SOUL SO I CAN COPE WITH ANYTHING.

BUSINESS: PURCELL TAYLOR LAWYERS. CHILDREN: OLIVIA 17, JACK 14, DOMINIC 10.

I WAS RECENTLY AT A LUNCHEON WHERE THE SPEAKER CONFIRMED MY BELIEF THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A WORK/LIFE BALANCE WHEN YOU ARE A MUM. IT’S JUST A CONSTANT JUGGLE AND AS A WISE WOMAN SAID TO ME ONCE, “OCCASIONALLY YOU MAY DROP A BALL AND WHEN THAT HAPPENS JUST BEND OVER AND PICK IT UP AND KEEP ON JUGGLING!” WHAT A WONDERFUL WAY TO BE KIND TO YOURSELF. BEING A MUM MEANS UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. AS I SAY TO MY KIDS – I WILL LOVE YOU ALWAYS, NO MATTER WHAT…

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KIRSTY KEYES 38 BUSINESS: KEYES & CO. PROPERTY. CHILDREN: BRAEDEN 19 (STEP SON), HUGO 8, SARA 7. I DROP THE BALL ALL OF THE TIME, WHEN I AM GOING WELL IN ONE AREA I FEEL LIKE I AM GOING LOUSY IN ANOTHER, BUT IN SAYING THAT I REFLECT ON MY CHILDREN, OUR BUSINESS AND MY MARRIAGE AND I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER SO I’M DOING A PRETTY GOOD JOB. I THINK AS WOMEN WE OFTEN PLACE HIGH EXPECTATIONS ON OURSELVES. THE BALANCE GOAL FOR ME IS TO TAKE THE TIME TO LOOK AT AND ACCEPT THAT I’M NOT GOING TO BE ALL UNDER CONTROL ALL OF THE TIME, BUT AS LONG AS I AM MOVING FORWARD AND GROWING AS A PERSON, THEN THAT TO ME IS ALL I COULD ASK FOR REALLY.

DEBBIE KEIGHRAN 41

ANNETTE WATTS 54

BUSINESS: PEAK PERFORMANCE COMBINED MUSCLE THERAPIES. CHILDREN: LIANA 3, AVA 1. BEING SELF EMPLOYED ALLOWS ME TO WORK AROUND THE GIRLS NEEDS AND ROUTINES. I APPRECIATE EVERYONE AROUND ME INCLUDING MY CLIENTS THAT UNDERSTAND, WHEN THINGS HAPPEN THE GIRLS HEALTH AND NEEDS COME FIRST. BEING A MUM MEANS I HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EDUCATE MY GIRLS TO BECOME WHO THEY WANT TO BE WHILE SUPPORTING ANY DECISIONS THEY MAKE. I WANT THEM TO HAVE INDEPENDENT PERSONALITIES AND LEARN RIGHT FROM WRONG. BEING A MUM HAS COMPLETED ME.

BUSINESS: CALTEX CONDON AND CALTEX RAILWAY. CHILDREN: REMII, 24 AND 5 STEPCHILDREN. I COULDN’T IMAGINE MOTHERHOOD WHEN I WAS YOUNGER. I VOWED I WOULD NEVER HAVE CHILDREN...

I’M SO GLAD I DID. REMII HAS GONE INTO BUSINESS IN DARWIN AND I NOW SPEND MY LIFE TRAVELLING THERE TO HELP HER. I HAVE TO PLAN MY LIFE SO CAREFULLY TO ENSURE THAT MY BUSINESS IN TOWNSVILLE DOESN’T SUFFER AND I GET QUALITY TIME WITH MY HUSBAND. WE HAVE A GREAT TEAM HERE SO THAT ENABLES ME TO DO THIS BUT I FEEL GUILTY WHEN MY HUSBAND CALLS AND I DON’T HAVE TIME TO TALK TO HIM.

CAROLYN MCMANUS 47 BUSINESS: THE COFFEE CLUB, RIBS AND RUMPS AND DONNA BIONDA. CHILDREN: LARA 12, CADENCE 10, FREYA 9. WE PURCHASED A CANARY. THE GIRLS COULD NOT AGREE ON A NAME. TWO CHOSE ‘SUNNY’ AND ONE CHOSE ‘SPARKLE’. I THOUGHT DEMOCRACY WOULD PREVAIL. NOT SO. A FEW MONTHS LATER ‘SUNNYSPARKLE’ DIED. I ASKED THE GIRLS SHOULD WE GET ANOTHER BIRD. ELDEST: “NO MY HEART IS BROKEN. THERE CAN ONLY BE ONE BIRD.” MIDDLE: “I’LL THINK ABOUT IT MUM AND GET BACK TO YOU.” YOUNGEST: “IS THE PET SHOP OPEN NOW?” MIDDLE DAUGHTER RETURNS FOUR HOURS LATER AND SAYS “MUM I DON’T THINK WE SHOULD GET ANOTHER BIRD, WE SEEM TO WASTE THEM!” I LEARNT THAT DAY THAT THERE WAS NOT GOING TO BE ONE STANDARD WAY TO PARENT. MY DAUGHTERS ALL NEED SOMETHING DIFFERENT FROM ME. THEY KNOW THEY ARE LOVED. I THINK I HAVE GOOD WORK LIFE BALANCE. IT’S NEVER 50/50. SOME WEEKS WORK NEEDS MORE OF ME AND SOME WEEKS MY CHILDREN DO.

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CYNTHIA DI BARTOLO 43 BUSINESS: LA PETITE BOUDOIR. CHILDREN: TAYA 15, LUCIA 12, AMARA 10. MY LIFE IS CRAZY. WHAT CAN I SAY? I’M JUST FOREVER GRATEFUL TO HAVE SUCH A WONDERFUL, SUPPORTIVE HUSBAND BESIDE ME, WHO NOT ONLY RUNS HIS OWN SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS BUT IS ALWAYS THERE HELPING AND GUIDING ME WITH MINE AND ALSO ASSISTING IN FERRYING AROUND OUR CRAZY, BUSY CHILDREN TO ALL THEIR ACTIVITIES. BEING A MUM IS THE MOST INCREDIBLE REWARDING JOB THERE IS, ALBEIT A WHOLE LOT OF CRAZINESS THROWN IN.

LEISA PARKER 37 BUSINESS: LEISA PARKER MOVEMENT AND PILATES. CHILDREN: AHLIA 8, ELAN 4.

OUR KIDS ARE AMAZING, I COULDN’T IMAGINE LIFE WITHOUT THEM. ONE OF THE HARDEST CHALLENGES IS FINDING TIME FOR MYSELF AND THEN, WHEN I DO, ALLOWING MYSELF TO ENJOY IT. IT CAN BE OVERWHELMING AT TIMES THAT THESE LITTLE PEOPLE LOVE AND LOOK UP TO ME, I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO BE THE BEST I CAN BE. WORK/LIFE IS A CONSTANT JUGGLE! I AM LEARNING THAT THE BAD DAYS ARE REALLY NEVER THAT BAD, AND WE SHOULD CELEBRATE THE GOOD DAYS. I TRY TO TAKE EACH DAY AS IT COMES AND AT THE END OF THE DAY, LET IT GO, PUT MY FEET UP AND HAVE A WINE.

JODI WRIGHT 34 BUSINESS: CAPELLI HAIR GALLERY | INSTANT IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPING. CHILDREN: KOHEN 4, STELLA 22 MONTHS, CONELL 12 WEEKS. RIGHT NOW I’M TAKING ONE DAY AT A TIME, LOTS OF NAPPIES AND FEEDING ETC. I’M FAIRLY COMMITTED TO ROUTINE WHICH HELPS OUR DAYS RUN WITH SUCCESS GENERALLY. A WELL OILED ROUTINE THAT THE ENTIRE FAMILY AND EXTENDED FAMILY KNOW MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE. KIDS KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT. I HAVE WONDERFUL PARENTS WHO ARE A BIG PART OF HELPING HUBBY AND I MANAGE OUR FAMILY LIFE WITH OUR TWO BUSINESSES. PLANNING AND LISTS. LOTS OF LISTS...

AND KNOWING THAT SOME DAYS –THE DIFFICULT DAYS – SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO SURRENDER TO THOSE DAYS.

SALLY LOGAN 51 BUSINESS: SALLY LOGAN INTERIORS. CHILDREN: ISABELLE 19, HOLLY 18. WORK/LIFE BALANCE? STILL WORKING ON THAT ONE! IT CHANGES ALL THE TIME, BUT MAINLY, BE ORGANISED, BE FLEXIBLE, GET SOME EXERCISE AND SLEEP. YOU CAN’T KEEP EVERYONE HAPPY ALL THE TIME, SO JUST DO YOUR BEST EVERYDAY. THAT’S ALL ANYONE CAN ASK. MY MOTHER WAS A SAINT, I WISH I COULD BE MORE LIKE HER. SHE LIVED LIFE ACCORDING TO HER VALUES, WITH NO FUSS OR DRAMA, COMPLAINT OR BITTERNESS. SHE DELIGHTED IN OUR TALENTS AND STRENGTHS AND FORGAVE US OUR WEAKNESSES. May 2016 DUOMagazine

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KARISSA CHASE 40 BUSINESS: RENEGADE HANDMADE MARKET, RENEGADE GIFT SHOP. CHILDREN: LILLY 10, MATILDA 5. AROUND A YEAR AGO MY OLDEST SAID SHE WOULD LIKE TO LEARN HOW TO RUN MARKETS SO SHE CAN WORK WITH ME WHEN SHE GETS OLDER. I LOVE THAT THEY ARE LEARNING THAT THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO MAKING A LIVING THAN JUST GETTING A JOB. I’D BEEN WORKING FROM HOME AS A FULL TIME POTTER FOR YEARS BEFORE MY OLDEST WAS BORN, SO WHEN SHE CAME ALONG I HAD TO ADJUST. I TRULY APPRECIATE THAT I’VE BEEN ABLE TO RUN MY BUSINESS FROM HOME FOR THEIR ENTIRE LIVES AND NOW I GET TO SUPPORT OTHER MOTHERS IN THE INCUBATION OF THEIR BRANDS.

SUZANNE JOHNSTON 42 BUSINESS: WELLSPRING CHIROPRACTIC. CHILD: ANAIS 6. IT HAS BEEN A RICH AND REWARDING JOURNEY, BUT NOT WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES. YOU HAVE TO REALISE THAT YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL, BUT NOT AT THE SAME TIME. ASKING FOR HELP, LETTING GO OF WHAT IS NOT CRITICAL AND MAKING CHOICES THAT REFLECT YOUR CORE VALUES HAVE HELPED TO CREATE BALANCE. BEING A MUM MEANS I AM COMPLETE.

KRISTEN MCGOVERN 55 BUSINESS: MCGOVERN AGENCIES PTY LTD. CHILDREN: EDWARD 27, MICHAEL 25. HAVING BOYS AND BEING A MUM MEANS YOU ARE THE LAST PERSON TO KNOW THAT THEY ARE DATING. AND WATCHING THEM PLAY FOOTBALL AND WHEN THEY GET TACKLED, YOU FEEL THE PAIN. BOTH OUR BOYS HAVE LEFT HOME NOW AND LIVING WITH THEIR PARTNERS AND FOLLOWING THEIR OWN GOALS AND DREAMS. MY HUSBAND AND I ARE WORKING TOWARDS RETIREMENT, TRAVEL AND LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT PHASE OF OUR LIFE. BEING A MUM MEANS REMINDING MY BOYS WHEN IT’S MOTHER’S DAY.

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MADONNA SIMMONS 49 BUSINESS: GETBRANDED. CHILDREN: BAILEY 16, KAI 13 AND STEP DAUGHTER ALIX HARRINGTON. I DID NOT IMAGINE THAT I WOULD BE ABLE TO STILL LEAD A NORMAL LIFE. I HAD VISIONS THAT MY LIFE WOULD BE OVER, NO CAREER, NO PERSONAL TIME , ETC. THIS IS FAR FROM THE TRUTH. YES, YOU ARE BUSIER, BUT YOU SEEM TO SQUEEZE SO MUCH INTO A DAY, A WEEK, A YEAR. BEFORE YOU KNOW IT THEY ARE SIXTEEN AND GETTING THEIR LEARNERS AND GRADUATING AND OR YOUR STEP DAUGHTER IS HAVING A BABY AND YOU ENTER ANOTHER PHASE OF YOUR LIFE.

AMANDA NASS 43 BUSINESS: BUBS2BRATZ NURSERY HIRE. CHILDREN: BRAITHAN 5, KAIDAN 3.5.

MOTHERHOOD IS THE BEST UNPAID JOB I’VE EVER HAD! IT’S BEEN A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY FROM THE IVF PROCESS, PREMMIE BABY AND A MOUNTAIN OF MILESTONES. TWO ACTIVE BOYS, A HUSBAND WHO HAS A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS AND MY OWN BUSINESS. I’M ALL ABOUT ROUTINE AND LIVE BY MY ONLINE CALENDAR. I WAS TOLD YEARS AGO TO CONCENTRATE ON WHAT YOU’RE GOOD AT IN BUSINESS AND OUTSOURCE THE REST. THIS IS MORE IMPORTANT NOW AS BOTH MY BUSINESS AND FAMILY ARE GROWING. I HAVE AMAZING STAFF, A RELIABLE BOOKKEEPER AND A VERY SUPPORTING HUSBAND.

CHEREE STEEL 32 BUSINESS: URBAN MISS MAKEUP. CHILD: LILLIE 3. IT’S THE WILDEST RIDE I’VE EVER BEEN ON, IT HAS BEEN EVERYTHING AND THEN SOME. IT HAS TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT MYSELF AS WELL AS OTHERS. WORK/LIFE BALANCE? IT’S A CHALLENGE. IT’S A CONSTANT JUGGLING ACT. I HAVE LEARNT TO NOT TRY AND BE SUPERWOMAN AND ASK FOR HELP. MY MUM ALWAYS SAID TO NOT RUSH GROWING UP, TO HAVE FUN BEING A KID AS YOU HAVE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE FOR THE SERIOUS STUFF. I HATED IT AT THE TIME BUT SHE WAS SO RIGHT. BEING A MUM IS THE BIGGEST GIFT AND IT MEANS I GET TO EXPERIENCE A LOVE LIKE NO OTHER.

LEIA WILLIAMS 35 BUSINESS: ELLE J. CHILDREN: MITCHELL 6, FLYNN 3. ACHIEVING HARMONY BETWEEN ALL THE DIFFERENT HATS I HAVE TO WEAR IS DEFINITELY CHALLENGING AND IS ALWAYS A ‘WORK IN PROGRESS’. FOR SOMEONE LIKE MYSELF WHO IS A WORKAHOLIC AND VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT I DO, I FIND IT DIFFICULT TO SWITCH OFF. SO THIS YEAR IS ABOUT TAKING TIME TO REFLECT AND WORK ON MYSELF, SO THAT I CAN BE THE BEST VERSION OF MYSELF AS A MUM, A WIFE, A FRIEND AND A BOSS.

HEIDI COOKE 35 BUSINESS: HEALTH STUDIO – EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY. CHILD: ELISE 18 MONTHS. WE USED THE ARRIVAL OF ELISE AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ME TO COMMIT TO GROWING OUR BUSINESS ON A PERMANENT BASIS. I NOW HAVE A MORE ACTIVE ROLE, WORKING PART-TIME IN THE CLINIC AND REMOTELY FROM HOME WHEN ELISE SLEEPS. THIS ARRANGEMENT SUITS US PERFECTLY – I GET TO WORK IN A PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT, ELISE GETS TO EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF DAYCARE, AND WE’RE BOTH FULLY COMMITTED TO REALISING OUR GOALS. MOST IMPORTANTLY, IT’S FLEXIBLE SO WE’RE LIVING LIFE ON OUR TERMS. May 2016 DUOMagazine

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May Advertising Highlight

It’s All About

The Kids!

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DUOAdvertorial DUOAdvertorial

Natalie Griffiths

School Not Just A Fad For Townsville Dance Scene Natalie Griffiths is just like any other busy working mum. Her days begin early, finish late and sometimes she forgets things.

AS the Studio Director of Townsville’s new premier cheer and dance school Fitness and Dance (FAD), Natalie counts her blessings that she is able to spend a good portion of her working day with her three daughters.

“I’m just a mum who is very fortunate to do what I love everyday with my girls in tow, while my hubby and son get to do their ‘guy thing!’” Natalie said.

“Not to say when I need a break I jump at the chance to go away with my son Chad for his sport.”

FAD is one of a kind in Townsville, offering classes in cheerleading, jazz, contemporary and tap dance as well as private tuition for students aged three years and up.

As a highly trained dancer and teacher since she was 16, Natalie knows that like any sporting culture, dance attracts a diverse range of students all with differing abilities and attitudes. As such, she is striving for FAD to be that place where all students can feel comfortable at any level.

“Your experience at FAD can either be recreational or competitive,” she said. “The atmosphere is fantastic, the studios are beautiful and our teachers are very positive, approachable and passionate about teaching each and every student.

“As the old saying goes, confidence is key and our aim is to teach students that confidence is like a muscle; the more you use it the stronger it gets!”

FAD is Natalie’s second dance school and second home!

With her three daughters, 9-year old Mya-Jayne and six-year old twins Karringtyn and Kamryn now following in their mum’s rhythmical footsteps, she is well aware of how hectic life can get.

“When I started out teaching I had no real clue on what it took for a mum to get their child to a dance class,” she recalled.

“Now I know first hand how hard it is and we can all sympathise and support each other at the studio when it’s ’one of those days’.

“My husband Brendan and I, along with our amazing friends and family work together in an effort to make sure our own children do not miss out.”

FAD Studio Corner of Flinders and Morris Streets Townsville City townsville@fadcheeranddance.com.au 0475 135 637

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOMagazine May 2016

DUOPromotion

Articles And Videos Support Parents Of Gifted And Talented Children.

The Raising Children Network website, visited by 30,000 Australians a day, has drawn on existing research and expert knowledge to provide the million plus parents of gifted and talented children with the most comprehensive online resource available in Australia.

THE Raising Children Network website contains over 2200 resources on parenting from pregnancy to teens. The new muchneeded resources fill a gap to support parents of the 10% of children in the community identified as gifted and talented.

The suite includes eight scientifically-based articles and four videos to support parents navigating raising a gifted or talented child.

Gifted children have advanced natural abilities that are well above the average, compared with children the same age. If a child is talented, they achieve at a very high level in one or more of the following areas – academic learning, leadership, technology, arts, games, sport and athletics. A child achieves at this level because they use their natural gifts to learn, train and practice.

According to experts within the gifted and talented community it is widely assumed that one in ten Australian children are identified as gifted or talented. Identification can be through a formal IQ test or informally, such as observations from teachers or the parents, for those children with a nonacademic gift or talent.

Dr Julie Green, Executive Director, Raising Children Network says the new videos and articles on gifted and talented children add to the growing content provided on the Raising Children Network site providing 24/7 support to parents.

‘Being gifted and talented comes with joys and challenges – for the parent and child. While most of us might relate to the clear positives of being gifted or talented it can also help to understand the needs around children’s level of activity and curiosity that goes with advanced development,’ she says.

‘Contrary to popular perceptions, gifted and talented does not make parenting easier, in fact the opposite can often be the case. Parents discuss that along with positives such as advanced intellectual ability, it can also affect their child’s behaviour and social and emotional development. A child who thinks quickly

might get frustrated with other children and instead of excelling at school, they may stop trying as they are bored.

‘It can also be challenging for parents raising a sibling alongside a gifted or talented child as parents’ time and attention may be drawn into supporting the gifted child’s learning needs or helping them develop their talents.

‘The four videos on the Raising Children Network provide footage of real parents of gifted and talented children frankly discussing their experiences. This allows other parents to relate to parents in a similar position and learn from other parents’ experiences,’ says Dr Green.

Carmel Meehan, President of the Victorian Association for Gifted and Talented Children, has praised the content available for the parents of gifted and talented children on the Raising Children Network website.

‘In the past, parents have had limited access to clear guidelines around how to ensure that their gifted and talented children are catered for, understood, and their gifts and talents are celebrated.

The Raising Children Network resource provides information for parents to assist them in navigating their journey in raising these wonderful children,’ says Ms Meehan.

The gifted and talented resources can be found at www.raisingchildren.net.au/giftedchildren.

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May 2016 DUOMagazine

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Newborns And The Aquatic Journey For many parents, swimming lessons begin when their children are much older. This age varies from family to family with most swim schools offering formal lessons beginning from 4 months of age.

But did you know there is a wonderful new aquatic education program for newborns that has become wildly popular throughout Australia?

Writer Chris Dellit.

BABIES are born with a natural affinity for water. Having spent 9 months developing in amniotic fluid, it is only natural that a baby should benefit from continued exposure to water in a loving environment.

Whilst safety may be at the forefront of peoples minds when considering swimming lessons for their babies, (drowning is the biggest killer of Australian children in the 0 to 4 age group), swimming gives so much more.

Did you know formal swimming lessons will actually make your child smarter? A recent 7 year study by Professor Robyn

Jorgenson from Griffith University Institute for Educational Research has shown that children who are involved in Early Childhood Swimming achieve physical milestones faster and scored significantly higher in visual, motor skills, cutting, colouring, drawing lines and shapes and mathematically related tasks. Also in oral expression and general areas of literacy and numerology.

So how early should you start? As soon as possible! From birth you should already be creating a wonderful ritual of bathing that soothes and nurtures your child. And once they are 2 months old they can be ready for a newborn aquatic education program. It is essential that you find a program that is supported by governing bodies such as Swim Australia and that have in depth knowledge of child development in aquatics and who teach from the heart.

At all Little Snappers Swim Schools, there is a FREE newborn program for 2 and 3 month old babies that promotes movement, touch, bonding, intellect, visual, audio and social, emotional and physical development. It educates parents on the Learn to Swim journey, teaches about Inborn and Learnt responses, knowing when your child is ready to submerge and what to do at home to encourage this journey.

Remember, this is the beginning of a lifelong aquatic journey.

Investing early in your child’s wellbeing by spending time together in water is a gift of love.

About the Author: Chris is an award winning leading expert on baby and toddler swimming. She is one of six delegates on the Swim Australia SwimTots Futures panel and a regularly published writer and lecturer.

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DUOMagazine May 2016

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The team at North Queensland Family Dental aims to offer comprehensive dental care for all ages while creating a family atmosphere that can make the experience as fun and stress-free as possible for both kids and parents. We believe that by making our early experiences at the dentist good ones, we can alleviate a lot of dental problems and phobias that can occur later in life.

Our staff understands the needs and concerns of children and their developing teeth, from their first baby tooth to their wisdom teeth and beyond. From general checkups and hygiene, mouthgaurds for sports and emergency care, our staff are highly trained and our surgeries are child-friendly.

At North Queensland Family Dental, we also have a special interest in orthodontics, especially early intervention orthodontics. The America Association of Orthodontics recommends all children have an orthodontic consultation at the age of 7, as many minor orthodontic concerns can be picked up and treated, before they develop into much more severe and difficult problems to treat.

We are so committed to making your child’s experience at the dentist as comfortable as possible, that we have converted a treatment room to specifically appeal to our young patients! Our waiting room also has a kids room filled with toys and even an xbox! By creating a fun and happy environment, our team hopes to eliminate any fears they may have about coming to the dentist.

During their first visit, your child will be introduced to our staff and are welcome to explore, watch and ask questions at any time. We aim to build trust with both parent and child and hopefully by the end of the visit, they will be looking forward to their next dental encounter.

– Dental Therapist Our very own Karen Ward is a qualified Dental Therapist and has extensive experience in treating children from 0-17 years. This includes check-ups, cleans, x-rays, extraction of baby teeth and all restorative and preventative dental work.

Being a mother of 3 boys, Karen’s friendly and warm personality allows her to quickly develop a great connection with all her patients, creating a fun and positive dental experience.

Karen strives to develop long-lasting relationships with her patients’ families, based on the foundation of mutual respect and trust. She believes in encouraging children to develop and maintain strong and long-lasting oral hygiene routines.

To find out more information about the care and services we offer to children or to book an appointment with Karen, please call or visit:

(07) 4755 2055 northqueenslandfamilydental.com.au

DUOPromotion

Anxiety What if dad forgets to pick me up?

What if I don’t know the answers?

What if there are germs?

What if... What if...?

IF you have an anxious child or teenager, you know what it is like to be held hostage.

So does your child. And it is heartbreaking.

Kids and teens who worry too much are held captive by their fears. They go to great lengths to avoid situations that frighten them and ask the same anxiety-ridden questions over and over and over again.

Yet, despite all the reassurance, despite all the logic, despite telling them to “Stop worrying”, they get little relief. Parents find themselves spending a lot of time reassuring, coaxing, accommodating, bribing, getting cross and doing whatever else they can think of to lessen their child’s distress. But it doesn’t work. The fears remain. The torment continues.

Think better.

Feel better.

Anxiety is a normal part of life and most learn to cope with a range of normal worries. In fact, having certain fears is perfectly normal. A child who sees a scary movie and then has trouble falling asleep, can be reassured and comforted and this is normal. However, if a 12-year-old girl refuses to go to school because she fears something terrible will happen to her healthy mother, this may be evidence of something wrong. When children become anxious more easily, more often and more intensely than others, they may be experiencing an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders affect about one in eight people and there are different types of disorders. The more common types of anxiety disorders are:Separation Anxiety What that means: fear and distress at being away from the family or fear that something bad will happen to a loved one while they are separated.

Phobia What that means: particular objects, situations or events such as injections or spiders bring about intense fear and

avoidance even though realistically the threat of harm is small.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) What that means: excessive and unrealistic worries about a broad range of possibilities and things.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) What that means: persistent unwanted thoughts, often about germs, with a ritual to get rid of the fearful thought, such as washing hands repeatedly.

What supports are available? Psychology support for anxiety is extremely effective and beneficial and typically involves teaching kids and teens to reduce avoidance, use better coping skills and learning how to replace unhelpful thoughts with helpful self-talk. Medications can also be helpful, but only if the anxiety is severe.

With treatment and support, anxiety symptoms can be managed, so kids and teens can live a more worry-free life.

If your child or teen is having problems with anxiety or other concerns, speak with your GP or call Fulham Consulting who specialise in supporting families with kids and teens.

If you or someone you know is thinking about asking for help, please call us to discuss what you need.

Friendly, Welcoming, Private mental health service with highly experienced Psychiatrists and Clinical Psychologists.

R & L Consulting Pty Ltd ABN 39 648 629 219

5 Fulham Road Pimlico QLD | PO Box 289, Hyde Park QLD | p 07 4728 5209 | f 07 4728 3089 | e admin@fulhamconsulting.com.au May 2016 DUOMagazine

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Providing For The Local Community Centacare North Queensland has been at the forefront of the delivery of counselling, care and family support services to individuals, families and communities in North and North West Queensland for over 30 years.

ANNUALLY, Centacare NQ provides assistance to approximately 7,000 individuals, of which some 2,000 are children. These services are provided through more than 88,000 hours of support, by 160 qualified and dedicated staff located in Townsville, Mt Isa, and surrounding communities, covering 807,479 km2 in North and North West Queensland.

Centacare NQ prides itself on being innovative and responsive in addressing the needs of the community. The well-being of children is a critical focus of our work.

Centacare NQ’s ROSA Program is a great example of therapeutic approaches to reduce the impacts of trauma and abuse on children and young people and enable them

to grow and reach their full potential.

The program works with children and young people referred from the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services. Foundations of interpersonal neurobiology, trauma and attachment form the basis for individual counselling for children, as well as support and education for parents, carers and schools to establish a network of supports around the child.

The ROSA program’s therapeutic counselling model provides education to those in the child’s support network around trauma, attachment and the impacts of trauma on the brain, body, emotions, behaviours and relationships.

Centacare NQ is transitioning and

modifying services such as ROSA to be responsive to provide services that are available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS will become available in Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, west to Mount Isa, and up to the gulf from 1 July 2016.

As a ‘Local Service for Local Communities’, Centacare NQ is continually looking at better ways to meet the changing needs of the North Queensland community.

Please contact them about how they can assist you on (07) 4772 9000 or call in to 410 Ross River Road, Cranbrook.

Local service for local communities • NDIS Support Services • Counselling • Education Life Skill Courses • Mediation / Dispute Resolution • Family and Community Supports • Youth Services • Housing and Homelessness Services

www.centacarenq.org.au Townsville: 07 4772 9000 Mount Isa: 07 4749 8000 Other Office locations: Bowen, Normanton, Cloncurry and Ayr and outreach to a variety of locations across the North West region.

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DUOExclusive

The Round Table To celebrate Mothers Day on Sunday 8 May, DUOMagazine invited five young Townsville professional women to an afternoon of wine and cheese at Michel’s Restaurant for this next instalment of The Round Table series. DUOMagazine sat down with Casey Chalkley, Hayley Christensen, Kayla Broodbank, Elspeth Smith and Jessica Howe to discuss all things children, family, careers and the future.

Host Courtney Frank. Photographer Josephine Carter.

Courtney: All right, so to start us off do any of you have a five year plan or have you ever had a five year plan in your life?

Kayla: Everyone tells you to or suggests that you have a five-year plan, set goals and that but I think it really comes down to the person. I’ve never set a five-year plan, I don’t plan that far ahead, I just plan for the year and maybe what holidays I’m going to take.

Jess: I think I certainly did during Uni, because I was about to go into television, and I was setting up goals for where I wanted to be in a certain timeframe. But in saying that, like you said it’s dependent on the person, what opportunities you get and just what happens naturally.

Casey: I’m the same, it’s easy to set plans for Uni, set them in Uni, and I set them for the rest of my life separate to Uni, but I know what I want to do in Uni and I know what I want to do outside of Uni and they’re all planned separate to one another which I think is important. There are other things I want to do outside of Uni that I have planned and they just fit around each other I guess.

Courtney: Do you think that you’re doing now what you thought you would do as a kid?

Casey: As a primary school kid I wanted to be an artist, which is horrific because I’m not artistic. But as I went through primary school and started high school and started doing lifesaving, I knew what I wanted to do; it’s just definitely not gone the way that I thought I wanted to do it.

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Courtney: Yes, I guess that’s what happens in life, you sort of have an idea of what you want to do but the track to getting there is not always easy – and that’s life, it’s not supposed to be easy, it’s supposed to throw you challenges.

I wanted to be a teacher for most of my life and then I had a lot of injuries through sport, so I was doing a lot of physiotherapy. So one day I decided that was what I wanted to do, be a physiotherapist. And then I got to grade 11 and 12 and realised I was terrible at biology and physics and chemistry and really good at drama and English. I’m definitely not doing what I thought I would do but that’s not to say I don’t love what I do now. Hayley, did you always know you wanted to be in fashion?

Hayley: I think I’ve always loved fashion and I worked in boutiques since grade nine, I think working for boutiques, chain stores and then leading in to developing my own brand, I am where I want to be now. But I think taking those steps to get here was necessary to do because otherwise I would have no idea what I’m doing.

Courtney: I think mostly we don’t know what we’re doing. I’m about to be 24 and I feel like I don’t really know what I have done in my life. You have small little goals and stuff like that but I think to me, 24 seems so old. I know in reality that it’s not, but you always think when I was 16 or 17, I thought I would be this when I was 24 and I’m not those things. But there’s nothing wrong with that either.

Kayla: Well I’m nearly 30 this year and I still don’t know what I want to do. But I’m happy with everything that I’ve done.

Outside my career I’m happy with where we’re at and so is my husband but I still don’t know what I want to do. I like to have a challenge so I like that I can go from legal and move in to a marketing team, doing sponsorship, which is nothing I’ve ever done before and it was great, I had fun doing it. So, I haven’t ever necessarily known what I wanted to do except when I was in preschool and I wanted to be a doctor. I don’t like needles so that sort of went by the wayside. That was probably a big part of it. So I think I’m the type of person that whatever opportunities arise, I like to grab them and go from there.

Not to say I don’t like setting plans, I do.

Financially, my husband and I are always talking about what we’re going to do. But career wise I like to be a floater I think, so I don’t know what I’m going to do and I don’t know what I want to do.

Ellie: I’m 27 and have a Makeup Diploma, a Cert 3 in Hairdressing, Styling Diploma and now I’m doing marketing at JCU. I like to keep learning because I feel I get a bit bored otherwise. If you don’t have a strong business background, it’s hard to open a sustainable business, at least that’s what I’ve found. Especially hairdressing because a lot of people want to open a business but they don’t have much business background, or the know how to do it.

Courtney: Absolutely. I’m not the studying type of person; I’m probably a bit like you Ellie, more of the creative type. I

DUOExclusive Below left to right: Casey Chalkley Medicine Student, JCU and Club Captain, TPBSLSC Hayley Christensen Owner, One Designer Clothing Culture Courtney Frank Advertising Sales Executive and Columnist, DUOMagazine Kayla Broodbank Legal Coordinator, Townsville City Council Elspeth (Ellie) Smith Hairdresser, Makeup Artist and JCU Student Jessica Howe Media Adviser

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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always knew, once I had decided I wanted to do journalism that I wanted to be in magazines. I only ever wanted to be in print, I never wanted to be the journalist holding the microphone on TV because I hate photos, and I hate being on camera.

I absolutely hate it. So I knew that wasn’t what I wanted to do but I also really hated the studying aspect of University.

I got good grades at high school and I got good grades at University but that was not because I enjoyed the studying aspect, it was just because I wanted to do good.

And I wanted to push myself to learn.

And when I finished University I was like “that’s it, I don’t have to study anymore!”

I didn’t want to be someone who was studying from a textbook for the rest of her life. Casey, maybe you could expand on that, obviously medicine is something that you have to always be learning in, even after you finish your degree. I know you went through the steps to studying Medicine slightly untraditional.

Casey: I think through school, I did well at school, but again it doesn’t necessarily set you up for the career that you wanted to be in. You know, I failed; I didn’t get in to medicine straight away so I started Bio Med. I did Bio Med and got to the second year and thought, well I’m going to finish now, so lets finish it. I did my third year of Bio Med, applied to Medicine again and didn’t get it. I then went on and did my honours and did research and thought, well lets see how I like this. I’m really interested in genetics and I love that side of it and I’m really interested in research.

And again, research is something that you have to love, and if you don’t love it, then you just need to get out because you’re not ever going to learn to love it.

I have so many friends who have done their PhDs now and they’re just not walking into a job. And it’s difficult for them and I’m like that’s it, my third shot, I’ll try for medicine and if I don’t get it, I thought I’m too old and I’m not going back. And I got it on my third time applying and now I’m third year. And I really do love it. I think you always have lulls in the semester where you go oh maybe it’s just not worth it.

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I think a lot of people at University, and I guess in life as well, there’s going to be times when you just don’t want to do it anymore. And you have to really work out why you’re doing it and why you started it in the first place. Because if you love it you love it, and it’s true, I always wanted to go back to study, I was so excited, I was like “Come on let’s just start again” and now I’m in there I’m like “Why did you say that, why did you think this was a good idea?” But I do love it and I know you have to continue studying but it’s something that I love.

Courtney: That makes a big difference.

Casey: I would be nowhere near being the doctor that I could have been if I went straight to University from school. There’s no way I’d be where I am now, be able to treats patients the way I can now, and have the confidence I do now.

Kayla: And is there something you want to specialise in, in particular?

Casey: Yes, I really want to do emergency.

Through Surf Life Saving I did a lot of First Aid competitions, National titles and such. I strive really well under pressure, we have clinical exams that we have at the end of the year and they’re like two minutes to read the scenario, eight minutes to do the scenario. And it’s one of those things where you sink or swim very quickly. You go in and do it well, or you go in and you crumble. I mean everyone changes their minds but I think some people are more suited to it than others.

I think it’s really hard going into a degree where people are a lot younger than you and most of my friends have done previous degrees and they know that they want to be there, they know what they want to do, it’s hard coming in and then seeing people who are just doing it because they got in or their parents want them to do it and they’re still really not sure. And there’s definitely people I know that are so suited to it and really want it and there are some people who are like, oh I’m not sure yet.

Kayla: I haven’t finished my degree and that was because of work, I just never had time to go to Uni so I had to defer and it’s now been deferred for a long time, since I didn’t necessarily love study. When I was

going I was only 22 and I was considered ‘old’ then and there was just people that didn’t appreciate it because they got in and then didn’t know what to do. And I thought “you’re spending money, this isn’t free, this needs to be appreciated.” So you’re either wasting your money and will owe money in HECS or you’re wasting your parents’ money.

Hayley: I think it kind of stems from school as well and the pressure to do your OP and everyone’s constantly asking what you’re going to choose. You have to choose then and there. I didn’t do my OP because I didn’t know what I wanted to do and I didn’t want that added stress in Year 12 to have to sit an exam because I’m terrible under pressure. So, I had a very mediocre job when I got out of school and I moved to Townsville. And I had to take steps to get to where I am now in business.

Casey: It’s really hard to tell people you’ve got to make your decision about what you want to be in your life when you’re only 17. Some people know, I definitely knew, but a lot of people don’t.

Kayla: You actually have to make the decision when you’re 15, you’ve got to choose your subjects in high school.

Actually, you’re 14. What 14 year old knows what to do? I’m nearly 30 and I don’t know what I want to be so at 14 how can you know? I was told what subjects to do and when I actually got in there, I didn’t have any friends in those subjects because my friends weren’t doing those subjects, and I hated it. So yes, I don’t know if you necessarily know what you’re going to do when you’re 14. Some people do, some people know this is what they want to do or they show that high level of intelligence so they are pushed towards certain subjects.

Courtney: I think that’s what I was going to say too, now they have a grading system where they give you your predicted OP. So you’re told that you’re going to be in the OP1-3 bracket, so then you feel like you have to apply for medicine, and law, and engineering, and those typical things that are for stereotypically ‘smart’ people.

Casey: There was a girl I went to school with, she was amazing, so intelligent, and

DUOExclusive | The Round Table

so beautiful, she did get an OP4 and she said “I want to be a teacher; this is what I want to do.” And people did say to her you’re wasting your grades and she said “no I’m not, this is what I’m passionate about. I want to educate our kids and I don’t see there’s anything wrong with being a smart intelligent person to do that.”

Courtney: That irritates me, I don’t think that just because you’re smart, for want of a better word, you should have to go and do something that you’re not passionate about, just because that’s what society expects of you.

Ellie: And even on the flip-side, I feel like they don’t have many pathways for kids that maybe didn’t do so well at school because they’re not as strong at reading or writing or don’t do well in an exam situation, and then well they feel like their only option is to go and be a tradesman.

So you’re like put into a box where that’s your only option and there’s no middle ground.

Casey: I think with regards to what you’re saying, testing, some people don’t test well, they do better doing other testing rather than sitting down and writing a paper.

Kayla: I think the whole OP system is meant to capture that, you have to write a story in QCS and there are certain aspects of the test that try to cover different strengths. But in saying that, there are certain kids that don’t do well in an exam environment whether it’s creative or not.

I think it also comes down to the parents, if the parents understand their children and encourage them to do what they want then, yes, that definitely helps.

One of my sisters didn’t finish Year 12 and that’s because she really didn’t enjoy it. My parents didn’t push her to finish Year 12, so she didn’t have to finish. When I finished school I wanted to go to Uni, but then I ended up in full time work. My parents didn’t push me to do Uni. When I did finally go, they thought it was great, obviously I didn’t finish it because of work, but one day I’ll go back. Maybe when I have a baby.

Courtney: What makes you think you’ll have the time to do that?

Kayla: All these grand plans, I said to my husband, because we’ve just started a business, I’ll be able to do this when I’m off having a baby, but my girlfriends that have babies look at me like, you’re an idiot.

I don’t know; maybe I’m in for a shock, I don’t know.

Courtney: So do you all plan on having children in the future and do you think this will affect your career? There’s this idea that women can’t have both, that you can’t have children and a successful career. I actually just read an article back in March, I think I saw it in the New Zealand Herald but it was on a lot of different news outlets. It’s pretty controversial, but there was a woman saying that over the age of 30, she would rather have cancer than have children.

Kayla: I think she should retract that.

Courtney: I’m pretty sure anybody who has cancer or knows somebody with cancer is up in arms about that statement, but she was saying basically your life is over if you want to start having kids after you’re 30 because you simply just can’t have both.

Kayla: When I was at school, I thought by the time I was 23 I’d have a child and 23 came and I thought, are you kidding me? And then I thought, maybe when I get married I’ll have a child and that was three years ago. And it’s not that my husband and I won’t have a baby, we will, it just hasn’t been the time just yet. I’m probably the last one in my group that will have a baby and I already have two beautiful nephews and three beautiful nieces.

I think, if you have a good relationship and a good partner and a balancing act, I think it’s definitely doable. I’ve got plenty of friends who are still professionals and they have children and their husbands still work. They make it work for them. If you want it to work, it will. I don’t think having babies will affect my career and what I want to do in life.

Courtney: I think really the bottom line is, it’s 2016. This article says you should have children younger because women get trapped when they have them at an older age. That word ‘trapped’, basically that’s saying your children are going to trap

you and suffocate you and stop you from achieving. And it goes on to say when you have children younger you have time to career build afterwards instead of being half way through your career and needing six months or even a whole year off. And that time off is just for your first child.

What happens if you have two or three?

Ellie: I suppose that’s like saying that no one past 30 can go and do a Bachelor at Uni because technically they’re starting from scratch. And whether you have kids or not it’s irrelevant, you’re still starting.

But if they have some sort of experience in an industry, then they have children and go back to the job they were in, why would that be seen as career suicide?

Casey: I think it’s so dependent on what they perceive that person to be doing. It’s sort of like “Oh, you’re at Uni so that’s all right, you mustn’t have kids.” Or “Why can’t you have kids now, you’re just working?” I think there’s so much pressure on anyone to have kids at certain times.

I think people say it all the time. I’m an older person in a Uni degree with people who are younger than me, and they say to me “When are you going to have kids?”

And I’m really not thinking about it.

We’ve got lecturers who say the same thing to you, like when we do reproductive units they say “Oh, when are you going to freeze your eggs?!” I don’t even think about that.

So at what age would you say, “Alright, that’s going to be my option...” because I’m still building my career? I thought, “I’m going to be finished and working by the time I’m 27. I don’t think I should be turning round and thinking about freezing my eggs!” I understand and like anyone, I know what the physiological mechanisms behind freezing your eggs are and why it’s so important, but I still think it’s ridiculous.

Jess: When you talk about the pressure to have children, I’ve also experienced the opposite. Where I’ve said I can’t wait to have children, I can’t wait to be a mother.

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My fiancé and I are getting married next year and we will have children when the time is right. But we’re really looking forward to it. But I find that sometimes, if I were to say that in a casual situation it’s almost like people go, “oh how dare you, you have a career, how could you give that up to have children?”

You’re not giving anything up; I don’t feel like there’s any reason that I can’t have children as well as a career. I just find that there is that flip side of pressure, where people say “no you need to have a career, you’ve worked hard and you need to stick with your career, not give it away for children.” I think you can have it all, like you say, in terms of how you balance it and also if you’re lucky enough to have family around. Obviously flexible childcare is an absolute priority and also a supportive partner, but I really think it can be done.

Kayla: You do need all those things. I do have friends that don’t have family here and they would choke when they read this and I say it’s doable, because it’s been really hard for them, because they haven’t had that support. Childcare is so, so expensive. When I talk to friends and they tell me about childcare and how expensive it is. It’s absolutely crazy. So that’s one thing that will have to be factored in, it’s like this big demon hanging over your head.

And if you want to have a career you’re going to have to have childcare; if it’s traditional childcare and you go to the childcare centre or if it’s a day care mum or if it’s an au pair, it depends on your situation but you’re going to have to have childcare if you’re going to have your career as well.

Casey: But I think that having a career sets you up to be able to do that. And know that if you have a career, it allows you to pay for that and help support you to do that.

Kayla: That’s true, depending on your career as well, you could work at a not-forprofit, because that’s your passion and it may not pay as much, but you love it. And I’m not getting on a soapbox or anything but childcare is an issue for career driven

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women. And perhaps that’s something that needs to be discussed more still. In saying that, I have never looked into it or know what the rebates are, I don’t know any of that, I just know that talking to my girlfriends, it’s expensive.

Courtney: I think also this part gets into a bit more, I guess battle of the sexes sort of stuff, but there’s an American businesswoman, author and blogger named Penelope Trunk who has basically stated that you have to get pregnant at 25 if you want to have a high powered career.

And then she says men who have kids are in a great position to climb the corporate ladder because they have their wives at home.

She says that women cannot go full speed ahead until the kids are all grown up.

Personally, I didn’t grow up with a mother in a corporate career, my mum was a hairdresser so she had the ability to take her business and work from home and choose her own hours if she really wanted to. But I did grow up in a family business that my parents both started and we still run to this day, and it was never sort of the situation where I felt I was being neglected by my father because he wasn’t around as much. I think that’s sort of what this hints at, is that men can be at work for all hours of the night because they have a wife at home looking after the children, and we are supposed to accept that. I guess I didn’t grow up with that upbringing and when I eventually have children, which I do want to do, I don’t want that to be how they grow up as well. So yes, I think it’s a really important thing for us to talk about now at this age, because the average age of a woman having a child now is over 30, and that number is climbing every day. My mum had me when she was 23, I know that’s a huge change and there’s that common misconception that you need to have children before you’re 27. Casey will probably have more medical knowledge about this, but do you need to have children before you’re 27 because after that age your body produces fewer eggs?

Kayla: Well I hope that’s not the case because I’m past 27 and I definitely will, when I say definitely, I’m not going to

guarantee that I’ll have kids because I do know that there are women who struggle and they do have to do IVF. But yes, I don’t necessarily think that going past 27 means that you’re not going to have children. My mum had my younger sister at 35; she’s ten years younger than me.

Casey: It comes down to a genetic thing, no one knows that if one of us was going to try, that we would immediately get pregnant, you don’t know that, it’s always going to be a chance. How fertile you are compared to how fertile your partner is, you don’t know these things. But I always get really frustrated with it just being biological factors, just having kids doesn’t mean they have to be your own. If I was to get to the point where I couldn’t have kids, it wouldn’t be the be-all-and-end-all, I would love to adopt. And people just think “oh no, that’s not an option for me” and completely disregard it as a possibility.

And I think that, to be honest, when I look at the time when my lecturer asked when I was going to freeze my eggs, you turn around and kind of start to think about it.

And the reality is, some people do have to do it. And then there’s the whole stigma around whether you will tell your current partner that you’re going to freeze your eggs. My lecturer said to me it’s better to freeze embryos and I thought “I’m flat out finding the time to find a boyfriend in order to make an embryo we can freeze”, how can someone say that to you?

Ellie: The other day I was sitting next to this study group and they were just going through what they had to do for class, but the oldest guy in the group had a little boy with him, and I just immediately thought ‘Oh my God, he’s a gay dad’, I made the assumption that he was gay and then I pulled myself up and thought maybe he’s not. At the end he grabbed his son and said ‘let’s go and find your mum.’ And I thought; it’s so refreshing to see a dad in that situation. He’s obviously a mature age student at Uni and for whatever reason, maybe his wife was working or she’s got something that’s going on, he brought his kid to Uni. It was refreshing that he could do that; obviously he’s changing his career path or up skilling. (Continued Page 172) >

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DUOHome+Travel | Book Extract from Dream Décor by Will Taylor

COASTAL RETREAT INSPIRED BY THE HAMPTONS, NY

Rough wooden textures and fishermen’s floats create a naturally nautical vibe in the hamptons. For a perfect coastal retreat, a strong devotion to simplicity is key. Aim for a palette that echoes the sea, the sand and natural materials for a truly relaxing atmosphere.

The lure of the coast is ever present for me. Not only do I feel at my most relaxed when I’m near the ocean, but I also gain an abundance of inspiration for my decorating schemes. In fact, the natural elements of the coast, and the maritime details that pepper coastlines around the world, offer ideas and inspiration. For some of the most timeless decorating elements. One of my favourite coastal towns is Sag Harbor, a small village in the Hamptons. Whenever I take a trip there I am inspired to invite home everything that I see and feel. And this spark of inspiration is true for many. From the rough wooden textures of the harbour Jetty and classic shingle cottages, to the boundless neutral shades of the beach and blues of the sea, the natural environment is a guide for numerous possibilities regarding the texture, colour and pattern of decorating elements that make up nautical schemes, whether or not they are located by the water. This chapter details how to make a coastal retreat of your own, wherever you live.

RECIPE FOR COASTAL RETREAT Jute rugs • nautical stripes • cool grey walls • ceramic • tiles • wooden floors • weathered furniture • grain • sack • linen upholstery • graphic motif textiles • rope The natural patterns, textures and colours I saw in Sag Harbor in the Hamptons, NY are the ideal catalyst for coastal decorating elements. Walking along the beach and seeing the eclectic mix of pebbles inspired me to think about neutral decorating palettes. For a more sophisticated take on the strictly maritime navy and white colour scheme, experiment with pale but warming grey and cream hues against wooden and painted furniture.

One way of getting a coastal scheme to look cool and not twee is to use classic maritime elements and graphics sparingly.

While a coastal space isn’t complete without an anchor cushion or worn wooden

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oar, a mere peppering of these elements may be all that is required to tell the coastal story. Surround these ubiquitous nautical decor pieces with a palette inspired by the natural elements: painted wooden furniture in a weathered finish, cool grey painted walls, linen upholstery and thick, tactile and comfortable jute rugs underfoot.

Fill sofas with cushions to up the comfort factor – this dream decor is all about escaping and relaxing, after all. Soften cool schemes by inviting the coastal outdoors in, with vases of blue and white blooms, and employ some graphic nautical motifs across soft furnishings and accessories to provide visual interest. Keep floors simple; wooden floorboards work best for a coastal atmosphere.

Words and images from Dream Décor by Will Taylor published by Jaqui Small. $49.99. Available now in all good bookstores and online.

Photography is by Will Taylor and Simon Upton.

DUOHome+Travel | Technology

Arlo Security Camera Weatherproof and wireless, Arlo cameras see who’s coming up the driveway, knocking at the door, or out in the yard. Reviewer Josh Blundell.

I HAVE always found wireless cameras to be a product that sounds like a good idea, but never seems to either work as well as you would hope or is easy to setup. The biggest problem I’ve had with wireless security cameras is the fact they were never actually wireless. You connect them to your WiFi network, but then you still needed to plug them into a powerpoint. If you wanted to benefit from an outdoor camera, setting it up was going to cost you in time and money, for hiring an electrician or running extension cables through the garden.

Luckily, Netgear has a solution. It is the Arlo Smart Home Security Camera, which is free of wires or power cables. Provided it’s in the range of the provided base station, you can pretty much stick it anywhere. Netgear claims that the four batteries included with the camera will power each camera for six months.

The Arlo Smart Home Security Camera is good looking and simple. While many home security cameras have somewhat of an impending look to them, Netgear’s design is more or less what I would call friendly.

There’s no power button, no reset button or anything on the camera itself. With a typical tripod mount on the bottom and a strong magnet on the camera’s back. Included with

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of using either a smartphone app (for iOS or Android) or your computer when installing the cameras.

After plugging the base station into your router and registering for an account, you press the sync button on your camera and the sync button on the base station, and you’ve pretty much completed the setup.

While there is plenty of other wireless home security cameras on the market, the Netgear Arlo Smart Camera system has been the first to get it right in my opinion. Combining an actual wireless design with a simple, and user-friendly app, the Arlo Smart Home Security Camera surpasses every other consumer security camera on the market. each camera are two magnetic mounting points. The idea is that you can either install or hang the mount rather than the camera.

The Arlo Smart Home Security Camera is weatherproof and rated IPX5. You can’t use it as an alternative to a GoPro underwater, but cameras won’t have any trouble withstanding a typical Townsville weather.

The Arlo Smart Home Security Camera is remarkably easy to setup. You’ve got the choice

For more information visit www.arlo.com/au/

EiHADEUIEW BLINDS & AWNINGS

sunway.

Internal Blinds • External Aluminium Awnings • External Fabric Awnings Aluminium Shutters • Cyclone Rated Shutters

Address: Unit 2/298 Bayswater Road, Garbutt QLD 4814 I Phone: (07) 4725 2527 Website: www.shadeviewblinds.com.au I Email: sales@shadeviewblinds.com.au

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“Good morning, sunshine,” said the window shades as they opened themselves to greet the day.

Introducing PowerView™ Motorisation from Luxaflex® Window Fashions.

A remarkable new system that automatically moves your shades throughout the day so you don’t have to. Just program your daily personalised settings with your smartphone or tablet. You can even activate a pre-programmed setting with a touch of our brilliantly designed Pebble® Scene Controller, available in seven perfect pops of colour. To see PowerView™ in motion, visit our Luxaflex Gallery showroom or go to luxaflex.com.au

Townsville Carpet One Floor & Home 125 Dalrymple Road, Garbutt

© 2016 Hunter Douglas Limited [ABN 98 009 675 709]. ® Registered Trade Marks of Hunter Douglas. C14057_DuoMag_1May

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Call 4725 2266 www.carpetone.luxaflex.com.au

Clockwise from top left: Mosaic Bowl $59 Buddha Teal $49 Family Banner $25 Tree of Life 60cm $95 Circle of Friends $29 Tree of Life Board ‘Grateful, Faith, Peace..’$195 Dream Catcher $39 Sign I Love You to the Moon and Back $45 Sign It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere $39 Sign Caffee, Mocha, Valium $49

Castletown/Stockland 4728 8596 Willows 4773 7476

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Burst Mirror 72cm Gold $199 www.freedom.com.au

Olin 3 Drawer Dresser $899 www.daregallery.com.au

Ava Table Lamp $99.95 www.zanui.com.au

Sky Marine Landscape Framed Print from $429 www.zanui.com.au

Lois White Bedside Table $119.95 www.zanui.com.au

bedtime story

HERE’S WHAT’S HOT IN THE BEDROOM DEPARTMENT RIGHT NOW.

L-R: Crystal Charcoal European Sham $34.95, Hilton European Sham $19.95, Fiske European Pillowcase $29.95 www.pillowtalk.com.au

Alex Perry for Linen House Han Indigo Quilt Cover & Pillowcase Set From $239.95 www.linenhouse.com.au

Elodie Mirror 59cm $199 www.freedom.com.au

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DUOHome+Travel

Balé Bliss It’s a warm, lush evening in Nusa Dua. The sweet scent of frangipani flowers fills the air within the walls of Bali’s most romantic five-star resort, The Balé.

SOMEWHERE in the distance a traditional gamelan is being played, the chiming notes echoing softly between the trees. The lamps are being lit and love is in the air.

Behind the closed doors of the sumptuous villas, honeymooners are luxuriating in their private pools, taking a last dip before showering for supper.

From the resort lobby guests can gaze on the resort’s broad central avenue of white-stone stairs that climb gracefully to the main pool. Paper lanterns, placed on each stair, make the warm stones glow and add a touch of magic to the scene.

For a second the honeymooners imagine they are in a Moorish palace in southern Spain, or a sheikh’s desert residence in the Arabian Gulf but the gamelan and the never-faltering smiles of the Balinese staff remind them that they

are in one of the most exotic places on earth, the Island of the Gods.

Early diners arrive at Faces Restaurant preparing to indulge in delicious gourmet meals by candlelight. There are crisp white tablecloths and cooling cucumber martinis. Some have booked ahead to secure one of the exclusive and discreet tables next to the sublime pool where they dine under a vast arc of tropical stars.

These blissful few hours around sundown are the most reverential in Bali, when the heat of the day has passed and the promise of night comes on apace.

The Balé captures and accentuates the romance perfectly, allowing guests to celebrate their union in dramatic splendour. It is bewitching. All around the resort there is tranquility and a respectful hush.

The impeccably trained staff soft-foot

between tables, delivering divine dishes, replenishing champagne glasses and giving enchanted guests just the right amount of privacy and attention.

They politely inquire as to the day’s activities; they ask if the swim was good at the beach club that afternoon, if guests found the sarong they were searching for in the markets and if they need spa treatment tips for tomorrow. But they know their limits and they know when to retreat and leave a couple in peace.

It’s a rare skill to have mastered that ebb and flow of service but The Balé’s management company, Lifestyle Retreats, has perfected it.

The waiters and personal butlers (every villa has one) are adept at reading their guests’ moods and desires. They are more than staff members, they are part of The Balé family, and the effect of this >

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camaraderie is powerful: guests feel not just respected but cherished.

There can be few more handsome and architecturally exciting five-star hotels in the world, and none as romantic for honeymooners.

The Balé has an exclusive and individual style, offering villa compounds rather than rooms. Each compound has its own delicious freshwater pool and peaceful, landscaped garden. The villas are big, starting with 240sqm Single Pavilions, and combine modern minimalist style with great attention to detail.

There is intricate stonework and beautiful traditional Balinese roof designs.

There are comfy sofas with window-seats, showers both indoors and out, a large and inviting bed sitting on its own terrazzo base and – essential for any honeymoon

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destination – a bath that two lovers can enjoy comfortably together.

Each villa is equipped with modern technology and some personal treats such as boxes of handmade fragrant Balinese soaps, flavoured with frangipani, ylangylang and other local flowers, herbs and spices.

The Balé has also retained and enhanced its reputation as one of Asia’s best wellness resorts with a fabulous spa offering an eclectic menu of couples’ treatments from around the world, and a spa food menu focusing on light, healthy meals and drinks. The spa food is available for all guests, whether they are partaking of spa treatments or not.

By midnight the last of the diners have retreated to their villas, strolling hand-inhand along the walkways and feeling the stone walls still comfortingly warm from

the day’s sun. And so to bed, to dream dreams of ocean breezes and romantic walks along the soft Nusa Dua sand, and to look forward to another day in paradise.

For more information: www.thebale.com www.tripadvisor.com.au/Hotel_Reviewg297698-d325383-Reviews-The_BaleNusa_Dua_Nusa_Dua_Peninsula_Bali. html

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FIVE-STAR STYLE IN MELBOURNE CBD Peppers Docklands recently opened its doors, heralding the arrival of the Peppers name in the Melbourne CBD. The only 5-star hotel within the Dockland’s precinct, it has direct access to the Etihad Stadium concourse. The contemporary accommodation is defined by bespoke bathrooms and cutting edge interior design, with hotel facilities including the stylish MOMAMI restaurant and bar. www.peppers.com.au/docklands

EVENT: BLUES ON BROADBEACH 19–22 May, Broadbeach (Gold Coast) One of Rolling Stone Magazine’s 100 Greatest Voices of All Time, Eric Burdon and The Animals will headline Australia’s largest free music festival this May with the Gold Coast as the backdrop.

Jupiters Gold Coast is also bringing Diesel Music to the Festival on Friday May 20.

HOLIDAY HERO GoPro has released its smallest, lightest camera yet – the HERO4 Session. With its tiny size, built-in waterproof technology and wi-fi that allows you to upload images direct to social media it’s ideal for travelling. $299.95 gopro.com

CARD GUARD When placed on top of a credit card RFID Card Guards block illegal scans of RFID chips, preventing identity theft. $18.50 www.anacondastores.com

PORTABLE SPEAKERS PACK A PUNCH

DESTINATION: WESTERN AUSTRALIA The Gap A new lookout and see-through platform has opened at The Gap and Natural Bridge, near Albany. The grated seethrough platform rises almost 40m above the ocean and extends 10m from the cliff face, including 4m directly above the ocean, for a spectacular view.

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The Divoom Airbeat-10 portable Bluetooth speaker comes with a suction cup that turns any hard flat surface into an extra subwoofer that amplifies the bass. It’s handy for those weekend escapes where luggage space is limited but you just can’t do without your favourite tunes. $47.30 www.techbuy.com.au

LEATHER WORK BAG Fossil’s new Wyatt work bag comes in three colour ways – Dark Brown, Saddle and Navy.

It fits a 15-inch laptop and has deep outside pockets so you can grab essentials quickly.

Just the thing for those quick fly-in, fly-out business trips. $449 www.fossil.com.au

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DUOHome+Travel

Personal Travel Manager

Maria Pandalai

TravelManagers Australia

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Greece – the birthplace of Western civilisation, home to the Olympics, marathons, theatre, a major influence of architectural design and the roots of my background.

I have visited Greece several times and most recently spent some time on the largest of the Greek Islands – Crete.

Kriti, as the Greeks call it, with its array of regions to visit, Venetian influence, ancient history and stunning beaches, has a lot to be desired.

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How to get there There are daily flights from Townsville, with transits, before reaching Athens. From Athens, you can connect onto a domestic flight directly into Heraklion or Chania. Alternatively, if you prefer an island hopping adventure, there are ferries from numerous Greek Islands to Heraklion. Due to the size of Crete, it’s ideal to hire a car if you have time to explore the island.

It can take up to five hours to drive from east to west. Driving can prove a little challenging.

The roads can be narrow, winding, mountainous and not to mention you may have to stop for the occasional mountain goat! Also keep in mind that driving is on the right hand side of the road and let’s just say that the road rules aren’t always adhered to. My tip – travel with an open mind and be alert at all times.

When to go The best time to visit Crete depends on the purpose of your holiday. If you want to take advantage of the heat, nightlife and action, the summer months of July and August are best. If you prefer to beat the crowds and choose not to sweat it, travel between mid-May to late Jun and mid to late Sep. Avoid the winter months if you are partial to the cold and importantly, for islands such as Crete, some businesses close down and the ferry services dwindle.

Where to stay Many tourists tend to stay on the north coast of Crete where the main gateways and cities are located, namely, Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno and Sitia. Or you could stay in smaller, secluded places, with a sense that tourism has not quite reached these sleepy towns. Crete has an abundant mix of accommodation styles. From authentic experiences, to modern resorts, Crete has it covered. My top five favourites are; Mama Nena Charming Hotel, a small family run boutique hotel in the heart of Chania’s charming old town. Thomais Resort, comprising of two bioclimatic residences built 1500m above Agia Pelagia Bay, near Heraklion. St Nicolas Bay Hotel, a luxury resort set on a private beach with character and sea front seclusion in Agios Nikolaos.

The White Houses of Crete, including three cottages and two apartments, converted from fisherman’s houses, on the harbour in Makrigialos and across from the ocean. And Abelos Villas, consisting of two adjoining traditional houses in a country location in Rethymno, restored back from 1810, bursting with history.

My top five sightseeing recommendations DenisShumov / Shutterstock.com

A night out at a taverna with live Greek music and dancing, allows you to truly take in the culture. Walking food and wine tours in Chania showcasing the regions local produce make you feel like a true local. Hiking the longest Gorge in Europe, Samaria Gorge, located in a National Park has you mesmerized with the countryside. For a taste of history,

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visit the Minoan Palaces of Knossos, where Myth has it that the palace was built to house the half man/half bull Minotaur. And a trip to Crete would not be complete without a relaxing day at the beach. Try Elafonisi Beach in West Crete, a small islet of white and pink sandy beaches, appearing on the Tripadvisor list of the world’s 25 best beaches for 2016.

Eating out Without a doubt, Greeks love their food.

Having a meal together with family and friends is a big deal for Greeks, as they believe it unites loved ones. And the Cretan cuisine will not let you down. Sample dishes such as pan fried sardines, feta stuffed calamari, grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini flowers and dolmathes.

It’s always a good idea to order mezedes (appetizers) to share as a group, rather than mains, as this is normally more cost effective and gives you more variety. The traditional giro is a must, made with homemade flat bread, filled with succulent pork, tomato, potato chips, and of course tzatziki – it’s a meal in itself. Wine is cheaper ordered by the carafe as opposed to bottled. The Greek coffee is vital to the Greek way of life. Drunk short, black and strong, with or without sugar.

Maria Pandalai TravelManagers Australia Personal Travel Manager 0407 122 120 maria.pandalai@travelmanagers.com.au travelmanagers.com.au/MariaPandalai

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DUOStyle | MyBag

Ambika Rebello

About me: I was born in India and grew up in the bustling city of Mumbai.

My family and friends would describe me as warm and fun loving. I had a successful career in Jewellery and later in Media and Advertising before moving to Australia with my husband in 2014 as permanent residents. We share a common love for travelling hence even when we migrated, we broke the mould of ‘ideal migrants’ as we embarked on an adventure by travelling extensively across the continent before work opportunities dictated our move to Townsville. However, it did not take us long to fall in love with this beautiful tropical city and its people and now call it home. My son Rohan was born earlier this year and am loving the joys and adventures of being a new mum!

MY BAG I bought this beautiful handmade bag in Singapore on holiday with my bestie, my mom. WATCH It was my first buy on an overseas trip to Minneapolis, USA many years ago. Reminds me of the feeling of accomplishment on my first business trip in a foreign land.

PHOTO Dad and I taken just before he walked me down the aisle. He passed away 3 days later. He was the gentlest man I knew and forever my hero!

PHOTO of me with Jason in his crisp white captain’s uniform always makes my heart skip a beat. TRAVEL PHOTO Jason and me in the photo booth of a maritime museum in Europe.

I love its vibe! DIAMOND EARRINGS and PENDANT Gifts from my parents that I wore on my wedding day; they remind me of their constant love and blessing. ROSARY A gift from my Mom. A devout Catholic, she got it for me from Lourdes.

LITTLE LAMB SOUVENIR We love buying souvenirs when we travel. From Tallin, Estonia it’s special because my husband says ‘It reminds him of me’ (he calls me his “Little ‘Amb”).

TWEEZERS AND LOUPE From my previous profession in diamond jewelry. Creating bespoke pieces is still a passion of mine. BAPTISM CANDLE and COMMEMORATIVE CERTIFICATE These belong to Rohan who shares a very special bond with this beautiful city.

He was baptised on February 18th to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first baptism in Townsville. BABY PRAYER BOOK I bought this for my baby Rohan from the Vinnies book shop. I have always believed in the power of family prayer and hope to imbibe the virtues of prayer in my little one as well.

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WIGGLING LADYBUG Move over lipsticks and mascara, you have a new flatmate. The more I progress in motherhood, the more of Rohan’s stuff finds its way into my bag. The latest addition is this clip-on toy which keeps my baby engaged... and me sane! WINTER TRAVEL HAT I’m looking forward to wearing my favourite travel hat soon.

The last time was with Jason on a merchant vessel voyage to Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Lituania, Poland and Russia. iPHONE6 Latest gift from my adoring husband. He can get lots of quality photos and videos of our little fella in all his various moods. PERFUME, Bvlgari Mon Jasmine Noir. The first gift I received from my husband Jason about three years ago. SPANISH SAFFRON I have a passion for food and cooking. I love Indian food in particular (no surprises here!) and am constantly picking up spices. Saffron is my most favourite and precious spice, this box of Spanish saffron my mom lovingly brought for me. GOLD CHAIN with black beads, Mangala Sutra means ‘auspicious thread’ and is traditional Indian jewelry. In India, it is a symbol of marriage worn by women, a symbol of a lifelong union akin to a wedding ring in the western world. It is one of the few things I brought with me when moving here. I love Australia, my multicultural new home at the same time I proudly wear my Indian heritage as well! BOOK ON LONDON In all my travels, I have never been to London! My husband has been there several times. I am reading up on the history of this amazing city in the hope of being able to travel there once our baby is a little older.

DUOAdvertorial DUOAdvertorial

Above left to right: Victoria Jarrett, Karina Yeoman, Eden Vinson, Jenna Rowe, Tamika Fry, Kelly Isaac, Taleta Hasted

Sea Change For Local Hair Salon

Kelly Isaac

The super-styling Podium Hair and Beauty team can’t wait for their clients, old and new, to come in and check out their new home on Gregory Street, North Ward.

AS the new resident at number 39 of this lively location where the city meets the sea, Podium’s owner Kelly Isaac couldn’t be happier.

“The building and planning for our move from the city to Gregory Street has been so exciting for us all,” Kelly said.

“After 12 years in the same location with two major fit outs, I just felt that I personally needed a big change and a project to inject my drive forward for the next decade. It’s really helped us to focus on our targets and goals.”

Podium has a professional team of seven stylists who specialise in both hair and make-up, so you can book in for the whole top end to be tended to in one convenient session that can be tailored to suit your budget.

“We like to create an entire experience for our customers from the minute they walk through the door,” Kelly explained.

“All of our stylists are continually training to keep up with the latest trends and skills to offer the best service experience for our clients, as they are our number one focus.”

Kelly notes the perfect balance she has struck with her team of girls as fun-loving and creative professionals as an attribute for her business’s ongoing success.

“My team and I work really hard on creating an experience for our clients that’s not just about their hair,” she said.

“I tell my girls all the time that we are like family as we see each other more than we see our own families, so the dynamics must work! This is what our customers love about Podium.”

Looking forward to their 13th birthday next January, Kelly has a generous invitation for new clients to join the Podium family with an offer of a 20 per cent discount for their first service.

Go to www.podiumhairandbeauty. com.au to book online or simply call the salon and mention the special to receive the discount on your first visit.

Podium Hair and Beauty 39 Gregory Street North Ward Email: phbstudio1@bigpond.com Phone: 4724 2488

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DUOStyle | Woman

MOTHER’S DAY COLLABORATION For Mother’s Day 2016 (May 8), Sportscraft and Naomi Watts are supporting the work of Barnardos Australia. The iconic Australian brand is the principle sponsor of the Barnardos Mother of the Year Awards, and has collaborated with Ambassador Naomi Watts to create a luxurious coat, with $10 from each sale going directly to Barnardos. www.sportscraft.com.au

UGG CONCEPT COMES TO QUEENSLAND UGG has opened its first concept stores in Queensland, with a Brisbane store at 150 Edward Street and a second Pacific Fair store. There are loads of new warmer weather styles that bring UGG’s renowned comfort to stylish slides and wedges. www.uggaustralia.com

MIMCO VERSUS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MIMCO has partnered with Our Watch, a notfor-profit organisation dedicated to preventing domestic violence. The three-year commitment will see MIMCO release seasonal capsule collections with 100 per cent of profits going towards education programs to help end violence against women and children. www.mimco.com.au/our-watch

BRINGING SEXY BACK Young Australian designers Ivy Arellano and Loan Tran have delivered a cheeky twist on nightwear for their Autumn Winter 2016 collection with fine straps, lace detailing and low sling backs. The hero piece for the season is the Maddox dress, which features high slits for the daring. $55 www.hunter-rose.com

BEYONCE LAUNCHES ACTIVEWEAR LINE Beyonce’s eagerly awaited activewear line, Ivy Park, has finally launched. The brand name comes from a combination of her daughter Blue Ivy’s middle name, the roman numeral IV – she and her partner, rapper/producer Jay Z, have birthdays on the 4th of the month – and the park where her father made her go running in her youth. www.theiconic.com.au/ivy-park

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YO U R S I LV E R YO U R S T Y L E

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Stockland Townsville 4775 6077

DUOStyle | Beauty

DUOStyle

GIORGIO ARMANI Si, Rose Signature is an intensely feminine reinterpretation of the original eu de param that adds two rose accords to create an opulent bouquet.

50ml $190 Stockists 1300 651 991

MAKE YOURSELF IRRESISTIBLE WITH THESE NEWLY RELEASED BEAUTY LUST-HAVES.

ESTÉE LAUDER New Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Revitalizing Mask Noir is a two-step, deeply purifying and renewing ritual. A revitalizing dry brush massage followed by the opulent, rich mask delivers an instant surge of vitality to fatigued-looking skin. $420 www.esteelauder.com.au 1800 061 326

WELL HELLO THERE NAPOLEON PERDIS

< GIVENCHY Noir Couture Volume Waterproof Mascara’s formula, enriched in resin and polymers, forms a supple and water-resistant film for extremely sophisticated eyes and instant, long-lasting volume. $52 www.sephora.com.au

GIVENCHY > Enriched in coloured pigments, Kohl Couture Waterproof Pencil’s long-wear formula resists humidity and sebum glides easily onto the eyelids. $38 www.sephora.com.au

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Enriched with Jojoba oil and Argan oil, Napoleon’s new Auto Pilot pH Lip Shine will hydrate and protect your pout, without your lips feeling heavy or sticky. $28 www.napoleonperdis.com

< GUERLAIN Abeille Royale Honey Nectar Lotion is specially designed to provide an instant soothing action, it’s refreshing, slightly gel-like texture heightens this effect.

The hydrating effect is instant; the skin appears firmer and smoother and glows. 150ml $83

GUERLAIN > Abeille Royale Honey Smile Lift includes 100% natural beeswax butter. The luscious, silky smooth formula gently glides over the lips, which instantly appear plumper and smoother.

15ml $105 Available from Myer, David Jones, and Sephora stores.

DUOPromotion

“Are you angry, Mummy?”

Weetbix all over the highchair. You frown.

Clothes all over the bathroom floor. You frown.

“Just try a little bite”, and you frown.

Homework not done. You frown.

Your Friday night is spent running the kids around, and so you frown.

WE love our kids – they are the greatest joys of our life. But there’s no doubt that having kids makes you frown!

If you’re finding that all that frowning is leading to a permanently angry expression, it might be time to look at solutions.

Happily, there is a quick, easy and costeffective solution available to effectively treat frown lines in between the eyebrows.

Those “angry lines” don’t have to stay there.

BEFORE

AFTER

Wrinkle-relaxing injectable treatments are safe and clinically proven to relax the repeated facial muscle movements that lead to those deep lines. Muscle relaxant treatments can last up to five months.

Results are maintained with subsequent treatments – the perfect solution for busy mums.

Our process at Chrysalis Medispa involves a short, complimentary consultation before your treatment is

administered. Or, if you’re not sure if you’d like to go ahead, you can book for the consultation on its own just to have a chat and have all of your questions answered!

There’s no need to look permanently cranky. We know your kids make you happy, so why not look on the outside the way you feel on the inside?

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOStyle | MyStyle

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DUOStyle | MyStyle

Amanda Green Tell us a little about yourself? I was born and bred in Home Hill and absolutely loved growing up in a small town. At 17, I moved to Townsville to study a Bachelor of Commerce Degree at James Cook University. On graduating I began working as a Graduate Accountant at Coca-Cola Amatil. In 2000, I moved to Sydney to further my career. At the end of 2013, my husband Paul, daughter Emerson (7) and son Jed (3) moved back to Townsville. We are loving living back in North Queensland.

Describe your style? I love a day at the races and am looking forward to the upcoming Burdekin Race Day on Saturday the 21st of May. My pictured race day outfit is typical of the style I like to wear to the races – simple and elegant. Most treasured item? The pear shaped diamond ring my husband had made for me for my 40th birthday present. Labels you like? Karen Gee, Zimmermann, Lover, Self-Portrait, Ministry of Style, Bec & Bridge, Finders Keepers, Zara, Cameo, One Teaspoon and really, this list could just keep going on! Best shopping trip? A shopping trip I did to Hong Kong with my girlfriends to celebrate a 40th birthday. Your style guru? I don’t have one in particular but love to get inspiration from the many Australian Designers I follow on Instagram. Wardrobe item you can’t bring yourself to part with and why? My year 10 formal dress. It is an absolute hit at an 80’s dress up party. Think sky blue taffeta, rouching, ra-ra skirt and an oversized bow on the back. Shoes or dress first? Definitely dress. Meaningful last words? Be kind, be grateful, be humble and always treat people how you would like to be treated yourself.

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DUOStyle

HANKS EYECARE PLUS

NORTHERN SKIN STUDIO Northern Skin Studio sets a new benchmark for a holistic facility. A skin & beauty clinic that has a medical program, operating under the supervision of a medical practitioner. Services offered are laser, skin peels, skin cancer surgery, cosmetic injectables, plus traditional spa and beauty treatments. Customised packages to meet your needs, medically and holistically, so you achieve the ultimate in skin rejuvenation and health. Open Monday–Friday 8.30am–5.30pm, Saturday 8.30am–2pm 252–254 Sturt Street Townsville www.northernskinstudio.com.au 4771 5898

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Hanks Eyecare Plus specialise in comprehensive eye examinations, prescription sunglasses and spectacles, contact lenses and eye health.

They offer Cataract & Glaucoma Testing, Macular and Retinal Scans, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scan, Colour Vision Tests, Prescription Dispensing, Children’s Vision and finding any Diabetic Eye changes. Healthfund rebates and Medicare bulk-billing.

Open Monday–Friday 8.30am–5pm 246 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale www.eyecareplus.com.au/townsville 4779 7433

DUOStyle

TWICE THE FUN SECOND PAIR FREE! For a limited time, receive a second pair of prescription glasses free with your purchase* Conditions apply. Free pair of Buddy Specs contain single vision *hard-coated prescription lenses. Ask in practice for details.

Aitkenvale: 246 Ross River Road Ph: 4779 7433

www.eyecareplus.com.au/townsville

Ayr: 137 Queen Street Ph: 4783 1361

www.eyecareplus.com.au/ayr

The Sizzas team is delighted to welcome new Senior Stylist, Melissa to our professional team.

208 Charters Towers Road Hermit Park 4725 3533 www.sizzashairandbeauty.com.au Stockists of Redken, Image Skincare, BioPacific, Pureology and GHD

THE HOME OF BRANDS

famous

MOLESKIN PANTS

230 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park Phone: 4775 5144 | donohues.com.au

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DUOStyle | Man

SUPER HIGH SUEDE FEIT have just added a new style (Super High) and colour way (Indigo Suede) to their handmade neo-luxury range. The leather laces can be wrapped around the ankle through the moccasin-style pull-tab detail at the back. $600 www.au.feitdirect.com

MR BURBERRY A new fragrance from Burberry, Mr Burberry, has top notes of zesty grapefruit with a seductive base of earthy vetiver and smokey guaiac wood. $122 for 100ml. Stockists (02) 9695 5678

SEASONAL STYLE A modern favourite, Fossil’s Machine Chronograph black leather watch has been updated for the season with a blue tinted crystal dial and brushed silver-tone case. $229 www.fossil.com.au

STATUS SUIT

JIMMY CHOO MAN New to Myer counters this month, Jimmy Choo Man combines a lavender and fresh honeydew melon blend with pink pepper and pineapple leaf. $175 for $200ml

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To mark its status as the official clothing supplier to F1 team Williams Racing, Hackett has created the ultimate performance suit.

Only 114 suits are being produced, to mark Williams Racing’s record of 114 Grand Prix victories since the team’s Formula One debut in 1978. £700 www.hackett.com

DUOStyle

SIZZAS HAIR AND BEAUTY

PANDORA TOWNSVILLE

TECHNIQUES HAIR | BARBER | TAN

Sizzas Hair and Beauty studio have established a reputation for a high standard of service with a commitment to excellence. The experienced salon staff at Sizzas provide a range of services specialising in prescriptive facials, creative colouring and cutting, hair growth and scalp solutions as well as many other body and skin treatments.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am–5pm Wednesday 9am–8pm, Saturday 8am–3pm 208 Charters Towers Road Hermit Park www.sizzashairandbeauty.com.au 4725 3533

Combine, Create and Discover the magic of PANDORA. Select from our extensive range of more than 600 charms, bracelets, earrings and necklaces in sterling silver, 14 carat gold and twotone to express your personal style and create a collection as individual as you.

Open Monday-Wednesday and Friday 9am–5.30pm, Thursday 9am–9pm, Saturday 9am–4.30pm, Sunday 11am–4pm PANDORA Townsville Shop 217 Stockland Townsville 4725 4755

This established salon of 16 years offers a relaxed and revitalising experience and a calming Sanctuary Garden. You will love your aesthetically designed hairstyle complimented by the most vibrant and rich colour.

Monday, Tuesday, Friday 9am–5.30 pm Wednesday, Thursday 9am–9pm Saturday 8am–4pm 89 Thuringowa Drive Kirwan www.kirwantechniques.com.au 4723 2114

CAPELLI FORMAL PACKAGES!

LET US CREATE AN EXPERIENCE A GALLERY FOR HAIR

Capelli Princess Package Up style Make up + Individual Lashes $150 (Saving of $35!)

Capelli Queen Package Up style Make up + Individual Lashes Spray Tan Mini Manicure Mini Pedicure $220 (Saving of $55!)

BOOK YOURS TODAY

Shop 13A North Ward Shopping Village 31–45 Eyre Street North Ward Appointments 4724 5554

www.capellihairgallery.com.au

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DECJUBA

Carmen Hamilton of The Chronicles of Her, is known for her polished yet nonchalant style.

Her coveted online journal documents a fashion insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take on trends, and delivers personal style with a side of personality.

This season DECJUBA, the fashion brand reinventing essential yet trend-led separates, has partnered up with the high profile influencer to showcase an edit from their Autumn/Winter 16 collection.

The collection is rich with textures and pattern which are complimented by a curated range of winter accessories brought to life by Carmen Hamiltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern signature style. www.decjuba.com.au

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DUOStyle

Kristen Geo Lace Dress $149.95 Joan Block Heel Boot $179.95 Noah Backpack $79.95 Kayla Felt Cap $39.95

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DUOStyle

Nikita Pleat Skirt $129.95 Esther Eyelet Blouse $119.95 Jade Belted Biker (carrying) $449.95 Natasha Tie Up Flat $99.95

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DUOStyle

Aurora Cotton Shirt $99.95 Marsielle Skinny Jean in White $119.95 Jade Belted Biker $449.95 Lara Loafer $129.95 Erin Slouch Beanie $39.95

DUOStyle

Helene Bell Sleeve Top $89.95 Melanie Button Front Culotte $119.95 Lara Loafer $129.95

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DUOStyle

Francesca Chunky Roll Neck $129.95 Assymetric Skirt $129.95 Kylie Fringe Sling Bag $59.95 Genie Sneaker $89.95

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SILVER SHOP

CAPELLI HAIR GALLERY Owners Jodi and Tamara welcome you to visit their new look salon specialising in modern and professional hair and beauty services. From luxury surroundings to luxury products, the staff at Capelli can now pamper you from head to toe. Our qualified Beauty Therapist can treat you with a deluxe spa pedicure or relaxation massage in one of our private beauty rooms.

Shop 13A North Ward Shopping Village www.capellihairgallery.com.au 4724 5554

Browse our wide collection of contemporary brands including Najo, Palas, Kirstin Ash, Swarovski, Fossil Watches and more. Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece for someone special, wishing to commemorate a special occasion, or simply spoiling yourself, our friendly staff can help you choose that perfect piece.

Open Monday–Wednesday & Friday 9am–5.30pm, Thursday 9am–9pm, Saturday 9am–4.30pm, Sunday 11am–4pm Stockland Townsville www.silvershop.com.au 4775 6077

RENEGADE HANDMADE

DONOHUES As the biggest city and country outfitters in the North, Donohues offers quality products to suit all needs from the business person to men and women on the land. Donohues are jeans specialists with styles to suit everybody and are local stockists of R.M Williams, Akubra, Ariat, Levi and Wrangler. Monday–Wednesday, Friday 8.30am–5.30pm Thursday 8.30am–8pm Saturday 8.30am–3pm 230 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park www.donohues.com.au 4775 5144

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Renegade Handmade began in 2013 and includes a curated collection of locally made fashion, jewellery, gifts and homewares. The market is held on the second Sunday of each month at the Marian School, from 8am to 1pm. The Renegade Handmade Gift Shop features 70% locally made and now includes ‘Hello Handmade’ with a collection of Australian independent artists and designers. Open Monday to Friday 10am–5pm Saturday and Sunday 9am–3pm Warrina Arcade, Illuka Street, Gulliver 0477 900 222

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DUOHealth

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOHealth

Audiologist

Grant Collins Clarity Hearing Solutions

Keeping Your Options Open Is your hearing provider offering you the right brand to suit your unique needs?

IT may surprise you to know that there are many hearing providers that are owned by a specific manufacturer or have a preferred supplier agreement with one specific brand.

Some of these providers will allow fittings of other brands should they be required, but some may not give you any other option.

The problem with this is that, like many other industries, different hearing aid manufacturers have unique patented features specific to their brands. Think of it like a car.

If you needed to get from A to B as quickly as possible you may choose to purchase a Ferrari or a Lamborghini, which are specifically designed with speed in mind.

However, if you wanted to get from A to B and it involved trekking through a rough muddy track with a few shallow rivers to cross then the Ferrari and Lamborghini are no longer appropriate. You would consider a model that was more suitable, perhaps a Prado or FJ Cruiser, to get you where you needed to go.

The same is true for hearing aids. I see many patients with completely different needs that cannot be accommodated with just one specific brand.

A good example is a patient of ours who lives by herself and is visually impaired with poor feeling in her fingers. She is extremely independent and continues to live a full and active life. However she is unable to insert and change hearing aid batteries, insert and remove the hearing aids themselves and finally clean and maintain them. This pretty much rules out independent use of traditional hearing aids.

However there is a product produced by just the one manufacturer called the Lyric hearing aid, which is implanted into the ear and stays there for two months at a time without removing, changing batteries and cleaning. She is able to hear 24 hours a day without worrying about managing the aids and can maintain her independence.

I have another young patient with a profound hearing loss who was born with almost no external ears. This patient requires extremely high-powered hearing aids, however almost all high-powered hearing aids have a part that sits behind the external ear, which he does not have. There is one specific brand that specialises in high-powered hearing aids that

sit right inside the ear canal without needing to have anything sitting behind the ear. The patient can now wear hearing aids that are not only virtually invisible but also allow an active lifestyle without the hearing aids falling out regularly.

Finally, we have another patient who has worked their entire life in the sun and has lost the cartilage of his ears to skin cancer.

He has also worked around heavy machinery his entire life and had lost almost all his hearing to the point where hearing aids were no longer appropriate and needed a Cochlear implant. Most Cochlear implants have the speech processor sitting over the top of the ear, however in his case he has no ear for it to sit on. Thankfully there is one Cochlear implant manufacturer who produces a speech processor that just sits directly on the head without needing to wear it over the ear.

These are only three examples of different patients all requiring a completely separate brand of hearing aids to suitably meet their lifestyle and hearing needs. Their stories illustrate the importance of having access to all available brands.

H E AR I NG FAC T NO. 11

A one-stop shop for your hearing solution exists!

It might surprise you that some audiologists are only able to provide hearing solutions from one brand.

Why? Because they are simply an outlet for that manufacturer. And some times the right solution for you isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t from that manufacturer!

Call Clarity Hearing Solutions on

1300 CLARITY or 4779 1566

At Clarity we are proudly independent and because weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re independent we can supply the right hearing solution to meet your exact needs from any of the brands on the market.

See us today for the best hearing solution for you.

DUOMagazine May 2016

Widex Tinnitus Treatment Technologies

Siemens Waterproof/Dustproof Technologies

Phonak Lyric 24/7 Extended Wear Technologies

Unitron Free Pensioner/DVA Invisible Technology

Cochlear Bone Implant Technologies

For better hearing, the solution is Clarity.

Townsville | Ayr | Bowen | Charters Towers | Collinsville | Ingham | Mt Isa | Palm Island

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Starkey Deep Canal Technologies

Clinics Queensland-wide | www.clarityhearingsolutions.com.au

DUOHealth

Physiotherapist + Director

Paul Parker

SportsMed NQ

Women’s Health For Mother’s Day Mother’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to remind us all of the importance of Women’s Health and to keep doing those pelvic floor or Kegel exercises you were once told about.

At SportsMed

ABOUT one in four women have at least one pelvic floor condition with 40–70% of women having urinary incontinence and more than 50% of women will experience pelvic organ prolapsed.

The pelvic floor muscles stretch like a muscular trampoline from the tail bone to the pubic bone (front to back) and from one sitting bone to the other sitting bone (side to side).

Imagine the pelvic floor muscles as a round mini-trampoline made of firm muscle. Just like a trampoline, the pelvic floor is able to move down and up. The bladder, uterus (for women) and bowel lie on the pelvic floor muscle layer.

The pelvic floor muscle layer has holes for passages to pass through. There are two passages in men and three passages in women.

The pelvic floor muscles normally wrap quite firmly around these holes to help keep the passages shut.

Although the pelvic floor is hidden from view, it can be consciously controlled and therefore trained, much like our arm, leg or abdominal muscles. The first thing to do is to find out which muscles you need to train.

• Sit or lie down with the muscles of your thighs, buttocks and stomach relaxed.

• Squeeze the ring of muscle around the back passage as if you are trying to stop passing wind. Now relax this muscle. Squeeze and let go a couple of times until you are sure you have found the right muscles. Try not to squeeze your buttocks.

• When sitting on the toilet to empty your bladder, try to stop the stream of urine, then start it again. Do this to learn which muscles are the right ones to use – but only once a week. Your bladder may not empty the way it should if you stop and start your stream more often than that.

NQ Physio we offer expert

Physiotherapy services, Exercise Physiology, Remedial Massage, Clinical Pilates and Hydrotherapy.

If you don’t feel a distinct ‘squeeze and lift’ of your pelvic floor muscles, or if you can’t slow your stream of urine as talked about in Point 3, ask for help from your doctor, physiotherapist, or continence nurse. They will help you to get your pelvic floor muscles working right. Women with very weak pelvic floor muscles can benefit from pelvic floor muscle training.

There are four main functions of pelvic floor muscles: • When contracted, they lift the organs and close the passages • Pelvic floor muscles are important for sexual function in both men and women • They provide support for the baby during pregnancy and assist in the birthing process • They work with the deep abdominal muscles to support the back Preventing incontinence or prolapsed is always better than trying to fix it. These conditions are caused by weakness in the pelvic tissues which are muscles; therefore all women – no matter their age – should strengthen their pelvic floor muscles!

The symptoms won’t go away if you ignore them, and help is always available. There are many things you can do to build up your pelvic floor muscles to improve symptoms. Treatment depends on the severity and the degree the symptoms affect your lifestyle. Some women may only require pelvic floor muscle exercises and activity modification, while others may need more intense treatment.

Parkhaven

North Shore Clinic

Bayswater Road Clinic 2 Park Lane Hyde Park Phone 4771 3650

50 North Shore Boulevard Burdell Phone 4774 2860

Open Monday–Thursday 7am–7pm Friday 7am–5pm Saturday 7am–12pm

Open Monday 8am–7pm Tuesday 7am–7pm Wednesday 8:30am–7pm Thursday 8:30am–5pm Friday 7am–5pm Saturday 7am–12pm

www.sportsmednq.net.au

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Certified Fitgenes Practitioner

Leanne Scott Pure Core Nourishment

Our Kids At Their Best?

This Mothers Day, I’m so proud to share that Pure Core Nourishment are the Australian Ambassadors for the Documenting Hope Project.

THE Documenting Hope Project exists because more than half of children in Western countries now have a diagnosed chronic illness such as Autism, ADHD, asthma, allergies, eczema to name just a few. The epidemic of chronic illness in children has reached a critical tipping point and there is an urgent need for practical solutions that can be applied immediately. The current medical model cannot meet this demand and must be rethought, reengineered and revalidated.

The Documenting Hope Project offers an innovative and scalable solution to meet this health crisis. It will demonstrate how a data-driven assessment of environmental and lifestyle factors coupled with a personalised therapeutic approach can result in improved health outcomes and even total disease reversal. There is a vast body of anecdotal evidence indicating that individuals with chronic conditions can fully recover – the stories of family driven recovery are growing daily. The Documenting Hope Project seeks to test and explore, through rigorous scientific methodology, the underpinnings of these successes and share these findings through a broad media and educational platform.

Documenting Hope Project is a Recovery Program, demonstrating that recovery is possible: • 14 children enrolled in a pilot healing program to reverse their chronic conditions • Detailed assessment of environmental and lifestyle threat • Comprehensive therapeutic interventions that address genetic, environmental, and epigenetic causes not symptoms • Oversight by medical, scientific and clinical experts with unsurpassed breadth and depth of experience relevant to recovery from illness One of the central components of the Documenting Hope Project is the creation of a feature-length documentary film to be released following the completion of the Documenting Hope Recovery Program.

While we will be documenting the children’s recovery scientifically, we will also be documenting the stories of their journey to good health.

The film, titled Documenting Hope explores through the lens of children’s health,

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what we believe to be the defining issue of our times, namely unsustainable living practices. The film reviews key health and environmental factors that may contribute to the epidemic of childhood chronic illness but also demonstrates with hope that, even where obstacles are present, children can recover from conditions as varied as asthma and autism by stepping outside the existing health care paradigm. Documenting Hope takes a bold look at the health and welfare of children as it follows several families on their journeys to recovery and wellness.

The core content of the film is the footage of families/children in recovery from diagnosed conditions like autism, ADHD and asthma.

This film has the power to change the way we view and treat children’s health. I am a mother of a child who had fallen through the cracks of our health care system. As a baby my son experienced numerous health issues that did not fit into a ‘textbook’ diagnosis. We were told nothing was wrong and he would ‘grow’ out of it, despite the fact he did not sleep for two years, experienced continual vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of eye contact and meltdowns daily and as a result we were left to recover his health on our own.

In hindsight I am grateful everyday that we were not given a ‘label’ because it allowed us to believe anything was possible – and it was. Thanks to a complete diet overhaul and addressing my sons health from a functional perspective he is now a happy, healthy brilliant child. I wish the same for all of our children but it’s going to take each and every one of us as parents to make this happen. Please watch our Documenting Hope trailer on You Tube and share far and wide – our future generations depend on it.

Join International Speaker, NTA Instructor and DUOMagazine Health Columnist Leanne Scott and learn about the latest scientific breakthroughs and methods that help you quickly and permanently reclaim your health, your energy, and your life!

Wednesday May 11 at 6:30pm Why Gluten Free May Not Be Good Enough Paleo Café 383 Flinders Street Townsville Phone 4771 3895

LIMITED SEATING AVAILABLE CALL LEANNE 0412 965 688 108

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Nutritional Therapy Association, Inc.® Foundational Holistic Nutrition Education

DUOHealth

Registered Nurse

Becky Croxford Bamford Medical

Ahchoo! Is it the Flu? Thinking about getting the flu vaccination? Here’s what you need to know.

THERE are many similarities between Influenza (flu) and the common cold. They are both caused by a virus. They both tend to occur during the winter months, but cold weather in itself does not increase your chances of catching either.

Immunise Australia defines Influenza (flu) as a highly contagious viral infection that is responsible for major outbreaks of respiratory illness around the world. Unlike the common cold, influenza can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications such as pneumonia and bronchitis, which often require hospitalisation. Better Health Channel describes colds, or upper respiratory tract infections, the most common cause of illness in both children and adults. Most colds are also caused by a virus, but there are over 200 types of viruses that can cause the common cold, which is why it’s not possible to be immunised against a cold. Compared to the Influenza virus, which only has three different types of virus, Influenza A, B and C. Symptoms of the common cold are a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, headache, red eyes, swelling of lymph glands, loss of appetite, and occasionally a fever.

Symptoms will vary from person to person, but symptoms will usually last from a few days to a week or more and the person will recover without any ongoing problems. Symptoms of influenza can be similar to a cold but are as

follows, tiredness, high fever, chills, headache, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, poor appetite, and muscle aches. Symptoms of the flu will generally develop suddenly, and while most people will recover in less than two weeks, some people will develop complications such as chest infections, pneumonia, heart, blood system or liver complications, which can lead to hospitalisation and even death.

Who’s most at risk from influenza?

Everyone is! But the population who need protection the most are anyone over the age of 65. Aboriginal and Torres Strait people, pregnant women and any people aged six months and over with medical conditions such as severe asthma, lung or heart disease, low immunity or diabetes. Which then leads to why is it important for everyone to have the flu needle. We as health care professionals strongly encourage everyone (including ourselves) to have the flu vaccination to protect not only our loved ones but anyone we have close contacts with, to ensure we protect the people who are at an increased risk of developing complications that may arise from contracting influenza. What else can you do to prevent catching the flu? Taking everyday preventive actions, like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are unwell, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the flu to others.

Prevention is the best cure!

This year’s flu vaccinations are a little

different to previous years. Previous years we have only been able to access a trivalent vaccination. But this year we now have access to a quadrivalent flu vaccination. What’s the difference I hear you say? The trivalent vaccination contains three virus strains in the vaccination, comprising of two A type viruses and one B type virus. Whereas, the quadrivalent contains four virus strains, two A types and two B types. The strains included in the flu vaccination change every year, but are always compromised of A and B type strains, hence why it’s important to have the flu vaccination every year. The National Immunisation Program in 2016 will supply government funded vaccinations to people at risk the quadrivalent flu vaccination, however the trivalent vaccination is an acceptable alternative only if the quadrivalent is unavailable.

If you’re contemplating having the flu vaccination this year it’s important to discuss with your GP or vaccination provider prior to receiving, to address any questions you may have, to ensure you are fit and well to have the vaccination, and also if you’re eligible to receive the government funded vaccination.

Bamford Medical Unit 1/ 28 Bamford Lane, Kirwan 4773 2888 reception1@bamfordmedical.com.au www.bamfordmedical.com.au

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Remedial Massage + Personal Trainer

Rebecca Vinson

Wehll

Exercise Recommendations During Pregnancy High intensity cardio and resistance training routines and six pack abs over a baby bump.

If the celebs are doing it, it must be safe, right?

CHONTEL Duncan has been made famous for documenting the maintenance of her incredible abdominal muscles, toned physique and high intensity cardio and resistance exercise regime throughout her entire pregnancy. Michelle Bridges was spotted jogging and doing crunches while expecting.

They have both given birth to healthy, normalsized babies. So why are they receiving so much slack from health professionals? Are they really misguiding the public? Or is this kind of exercise really safe during pregnancy? What are the recommendations and why?

Medical advice is essential early in pregnancy and regularly throughout, as even though both cardiovascular and resistance exercise are recommended for almost all women during pregnancy, there are certain conditions that can make exercise dangerous.

Exercise during pregnancy should be low impact and non-contact. As soon as the placenta it is formed, it produces a hormone called relaxin, which softens ligaments and fibrous tissue, allowing a woman’s body shape to adapt to accommodate the baby. ‘Relaxed’ ligaments make pregnant women more prone to strains and injuries, particularly to the joints

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of the hips, lower back, legs and feet, which can result in chronic, long-term and sometimes debilitating pain (so bad for some women they are unable to walk unassisted). Jerky, bouncy movements also put extra stress on the pelvic floor, a sling of muscles that line the base of the pelvic cavity and support the bladder, uterus and bowel. Weakening or damage to these muscles can result in incontinence (leakage of urine or stool) or prolapse.

So, jogging, jumping, burpees, skipping and probably even boxing should be ruled out with suitable alternative cardiovascular exercises like swimming, walking, cycling, the cross trainer, aqua aerobics and deep water running (water temperature should be below 28°C) taking preference.

When doing weight training, avoid any exercises that cause you to strain or hold your breath, ensure your technique is on point and exhale with effort. This all helps to avoid an increase in intra-abdominal pressure and associated pressure on the pelvic floor. Some studies have recommended lifting no more than 40 kg for 10 reps, suggesting higher loads may increase the risk of preterm labour.

Lighten your weights if necessary and make sure you lift your pelvic floor with every exercise. Avoid any exercises that load the pelvis asymmetrically, such as lunges, single leg squats or step ups and choose narrow stance squats over wide stance squats to reduce the risk pelvic pain syndromes.

Crunches and sit ups should be avoided throughout the entire pregnancy. These exercises put excessive pressure on the abdominal wall and can lead to a separation of the abdominal muscles called diastasis recti.

Diastasis recti compromises the stability of the spine and pelvis and can contribute to back pain and incontinence, not to mention the dreaded “mummy tummy”. Plank exercises strain the lumbar spine and should only be performed on a wall or other elevated surface.

The transverse abdominus (deep stabilising muscles) should be the focus of core training and can be trained by performing a ‘baby hug’ during other exercises or by exercising on a Swiss ball.

Exercises lying flat on the back should be avoided after 16 weeks and lying on a slight incline avoided after 34 weeks as the weight of the baby may compromise the flow of the blood to the placenta. Exercises such as bench presses can performed on an incline bench instead or in standing or seated position using cable machines.

When performing any form of exercise, stick to an intensity where you can carry on a conversation. This ensures oxygen flow to your baby is maintained. Obviously the fitter you were prior to falling pregnant, the higher the intensity of exercise you will be able to perform while sticking to this recommendation. Make a point not to get too hot and sweaty and to stay hydrated, as hyperthermia can be harmful to the baby.

It is important that you eat regularly and enough to account for the volume of exercise you are doing and the growth of your baby.

Pregnancy is definitely NOT the time to embark on a weight loss regime! Your doctor can monitor the growth of your baby to ensure you are on track.

In summary, remember: • 65% of women suffer some kind of urinary incontinence.

• 50% of women experience some kind of uterine prolapse and even after surgery, one third of these will prolapse again.

• Up to 70% of women have diastasis recti in their third trimester and in 10-15% of women, this will be permanent.

• Inappropriate exercise during pregnancy increases the risk of all of the above.

• Incontinence can be forever.

• Kegel, Kegel, Kegel!

Wehll Personal Training – Massage – Nutrition Inside Snap Fitness Little Fletcher Street, Townsville City 0411 377677 wehll@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/Wehll www.wehll.com.au

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Child Psychologist

Nicole Pierotti Babysmiles

Children Can Break Your Heart ‘Mummy I don’t love you’ the words that can break a mother’s heart.

YOUR heart stops beating, but immediately you think ‘he doesn’t really know what he’s saying’ does he? You begin to question yourself. You had just told him how much you loved him before he answered with this gem. Is he just trying to get back at you?’ You find yourself asking. Well his sister was born several months earlier and things have changed of course. Now what should I do?

I say, your son loves you and doesn’t mean what he has said. At his age it is often the reaction you get when you have said one thing and they turn it around to you and say the opposite. It’s a bit like a slap in the face. You can say; “You’re playing so well with your sister. That’s nice to see” and no sooner have the words come out than one will pinch the other as if to say; ‘well what will you do about this?’

The next time your son says something to this effect, quickly and simply stand up and walk directly away from him. This is giving him the message that you are not interested in this type of talk. Then when you notice him later behaving or speaking in a way you like, encourage this by going over and joining in.

It can well be that he is not feeling as close to you since his sister was born, this would be quite common, so if you feel this is the case, make sure you notice him more. With two children, you are busier and do not have the one-on-one time that

Hypnobirthing A calm, natural birth through deep relaxation, visualisation, affirmations and self-hypnosis.

Call 4755 2100 to book your class with qualified Naturopath and Hypnobirthing Practitioner, Leigh-Anne Simms BHSc Naturopath Envision Health 182 Fulham Road Gulliver Townsville 4755 2100

www.envisionhealth.com.au

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you had before so you can boost his feelings of closeness with you by simply catching his eye across the room and giving him a great smile, when he is behaving well of course.

Try doing this several times a day and make sure everyday he has 30 minutes with you without his sister and that you are both really connecting with each other not just being around each other. The earlier in the day you spend time with him the better. This will give him that emotional security and reassurance that he needs.

Is pregnancy taking longer than expected?

Common gynaecological conditions often cause pregnancy delay.

Queensland Fertility Group Townsville provides a comprehensive diagnosis and will explain all options open to you before customising a plan to help you fall pregnant.

Dr Ron Chang and Dr Renee Verkuijl

Leading Fertility Specialists, Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Call 4772 8900 today or visit www.qfg.com.au

Lego Portrait Workshops 10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm, 1pm to 2pm every saturday in may, perc tucker regional gallery booking required

Loud Lounge >> St John Zoo Installation 4, 9, 11 & 16 may, 3pm – 4.30pm citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

MAKE IT Workshop – Vibrobot Bug Racers 7 may, 9.30am citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

Writing Workshop with Samantha Wheeler – Primary Stories 7 may, 9.30am citylibraries aitkenvale booking required

1300 878 001 www.townsville.qld.gov.au TownsvilleCityCouncil

Open House Day 9am-2pm, 8 may rowes bay sustainability centre

Not just a Village in the Clouds 10am, 22 may paluma community centre booking required

Designing Your Garden for the Dry Tropics

T150 JCU Lecture Series

14 may, 10am citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

25 may, 6.30pm citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

T150 Heritage Day (Including Townsville Yarns)

Zoo Night at the Library

15 may west end park

Townsville Women and the Arts Workshop with Professor Anne Marsh 10am to 2pm sunday 15 may pinnacles gallery riverway arts centre booking required

27 may, 6pm citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

Morning Tea with a Classic 28 may, 9.30am citylibraries thuringowa central booking required

Eco Fiesta 29 may, 9am queens gardens

DUOCommunity

Director

Nicole Stott-Whiting Office of Life, Marriage and Family Catholic Diocese of Townsville

Parenting: One Stage At A Time Whether we have one child or six, the stages we experience along the way range from taking care of physical needs to providing direction and guidance.

Our family, however, remains at the core of all we need and love.

I am noticing over the past few months that I am in a very nostalgic mood due to a couple of special events in the not too distant future.

Firstly, my husband turns 50 this month and in June we will have been married 20 years. Milestones that are very meaningful and represent love, life and family. These milestones have encouraged me to reflect on our time together as a family.

Our eldest child turns 14 years old this year. When I think back to our pregnancy with her, I can remember that we didn’t really have any idea of how life was going to change. Nobody does. We just knew that we wanted to create a family together and to share our love with them. In those early years the tasks at hand related mainly to the baby’s physical needs and creating a loving and safe environment for their development.

It was for us, the formation of a new family.

My husband and I had been married for six years and our family dynamic changed from two to three people within the blink of an eye. In those first couple of years our life felt like a wonderful bubble. We had outside priorities and interests but at the core of everything was our little family untouched by the outside world. Our extended family took on different roles within our life and our beautiful friends embraced our new family.

Our next child came along when our eldest was two years old. At this stage, parents are juggling the early needs of a newborn with the ever changing needs of a toddler. All of a sudden we had become very visible role models. We were being watched and learnt from, every waking minute of the day. Our actions towards ourselves and others as well as our handling of life

situations was on show for our daughter to see and learn from. Along with this, we were also trying to give our daughter information through teachable moments.

Every parent, I’m sure, can sympathise with how complex this can become and usually on very little sleep. As we were repeating one stage with our younger child, we were constantly entering into a new one with the eldest. Even for the repeated stages there were many changes due to our own learning and the different needs and personalities of our children. Also once again, a new family dynamic had been formed. Our family of three had become a family of four.

When our third child came into our family our older children were aged four and two. Stages were repeating and being created at a rapid rate. All of a sudden the outside world was playing more of a part in our family life as our eldest child had been experiencing some time at daycare. A new variation on the journey. By the next year, our eldest commenced school and our middle child was starting a few hours at daycare.

Our third child was also experiencing life at home that was different to his sister and brother as they were starting a new journey in their development through daycare and school.

These stages, in different forms, have now been occurring and recurring ever since those early years. Some days we tackle these stages really well as a family, some days it’s a bit overwhelming and other days we mess it up completely. The main thing though is that we are learning together and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Love and family is all we need. It really is that simple.

Annual Reconciliation Dinner 2016 6.30pm Friday 27th May Rydges Southbank Convention Centre Tickets $75pp or $700 table of 10 3 course meal plus entertainment Bookings: www.trybooking.com/192568 Special Guest: Sabrina-ann Stevens Youth Councillor NATSICC & Council for Australian Catholic Women

For more information contact Alice Bin Tahal 4726 3233

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Accredited Specialist Family Law Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Provider (Mediator)

Kerrie Stuart Roberts Nehmer McKee

Surviving Separation

RELATIONSHIP breakdown is one of the most emotional experiences that anyone can face and it can be confusing and difficult for all. However, it is possible to navigate your way through this process with professional help that will enable you and your children not only to survive but thrive.

Key factors in ensuring both parents and children survive and thrive following a separation: • Get to a place of acceptance about what has occurred and your new reality which usually involves single parenting. Once a separation has occurred nothing is usually

the same as it was previously. There will need to be many adjustments in relation to practical arrangements and finances and this can be stressful. It is important to organise your finances, collate any relevant documents and take stock of what may need to be adjusted to make the new arrangement work.

• Where at all possible try to ensure that your children are able to spend quality time with each parent and each parent maintain a parenting role. What arrangements are appropriate will be different for all families and will also depend upon the age of the children.

• Support the children. A parent’s most important role following separation is to help the children cope with the situation.

The key to making sure children adjust is to minimise conflict with your former partner.

Do not involve children in the dispute, fight in front of them or criticize the other parent to the children and reassure the children they are loved by both parents. This may seem obvious but it can be difficult where the parent is also suffering their own hurt and distress.

• Look after your own wellbeing. Many parents are reluctant to seek help as they feel it makes them look weak or will reflect badly upon them in Court. This is simply not true. There are occasions in every person’s life where they will need emotional help and consulting with a counsellor or psychologist is no different from consulting with a doctor for other medical ailments.

• Use support networks for emotional and practical assistance but rely on professional advice about legal matters. When you separate many people will give you their

Caring for the legal needs of North Queenslanders since 1881.

opinion about the situation, the process and what you are entitled to. Unfortunately, the information provided is often incorrect and can lead to confusion and unnecessary conflict.

• Obtain quality advice and assistance in negotiating arrangements for your children and your property settlement. Take time to find an experienced family lawyer that is right for you, ask questions and make sure that you understand the process and all options available to you in negotiation, mediation and litigation.

Even in the most amicable separations it can be very difficult to discuss and negotiate agreements. Further, private arrangements can often be too vague to work successfully or when tested by changes in arrangements or practical difficulties, the arrangement can fall apart and never recover. In this case you may end up having to re-negotiate with your former partner again in very difficult circumstances or worse, in Court.

Getting advice from a lawyer specialising in family law will ensure you end up with an agreement or an order that will work for you and your children and allow you to move forward with peace of mind.

BUSINESS & CORPORATE LAW LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION FAMILY & DIVORCE LAW EMPLOYMENT LAW PROPERTY & CONVEYANCING ENVIRONMENT & DEVELOPMENT CRIMINAL DEFENCE WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING RETIREMENT LIVING & AGED CARE

RNM.COM.AU

DEBT COLLECTION

Level 1. 111 Charters Towers Rd Hermit Park. Telephone (07) 4726 5000

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Federal Member

Ewen Jones Seat of Herbert

There’s Times When You Just Shake Your Head...

IT just got very big on me very quickly. I was doing a press conference with Employment Minister Senator Michaelia Cash on the Fair Entitlements Guarantee (FEG) enactment for the workers at QNI and as I stepped forward to speak, I thought of the husband and wife at the

Bushland Beach Tavern meeting we had. They were there with their brand new baby. They did not want a hand out. They wanted his job back. That was the most important thing in his life.

With this announcement, I was thinking about the many families who will be under real pressure. This money would be good for them, but it would not help their lives in the long run.

When something like that happens, especially when it is subsequently played nationally, there is a price to pay. I didn’t anticipate the emotion of the announcement and I certainly wasn’t ready for the response.

I will say that when the PM rang me from China, it was a sort of “what the” moment.

But the ones who love you the most are there for you at these times.

I got a call from my loving wife, Linda. She had received a text from Emma in Brisbane saying “OMG!! Dad is crying on TV”. Linda asked me what was happening. I told her. I could feel the eye roll through the phone.

I walked into our home that evening. The eye rolling was still going on. My daughter, Abbie, said she was proud of me but missed one little bit of the press conference. I asked which bit was that. She said “the bit after you started blubbering like a baby’. Ouch! Funnily

enough, Abbie has since lost car privileges in a totally, and I mean totally, unrelated incident.

Mum and Dad rang me and had nice things to say about the weather. Mum is of strong Presbyterian stock and avoids all emotional issues. My brothers, both in Brisbane, rang to tell me that they simply could not wait until we all got together. It is a full on sledge-a-thon when we get together. I now have to pay for spies in Brisbane to try to counteract these attacks.

Still, none of this matters in the face of the impact on Queensland Nickel workers have been duded by their previous management.

None of them want to be in receipt of the support from Tax Payers. That is why the announcement was so bitter sweet.

Many have accused me of bunging it on.

But, when you are faced with the love and support from a family such as mine, you know it was not planned. No one would do it to themselves.

ADVERTISE HERE Call 07 4771 2933 or email advertise@duomagazine.com.au

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Green Party Returns To Queens Gardens

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aina bilit y and T he Town svill e Eco Fies ta focu ses on sust es. them ssed envi ronm enta lly focu * * * * * *

yl fest i L t r Living a Sma

JCU Educational Hub Healthy, sustainable food Live entertainment Welcoming Babies Ceremony Clothes swap Prize giveaways and much more!

Optional gold coin donation upon entering. Donations distributed to environmentally-focussed non-profit organisations.

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bring along their unwanted clothes and participate in an ethical clothes swap.

This year’s event will also feature talks

by Gardening Australia’s Josh Byrne, who is also known for his sustainable house project in Western Australia, Josh’s House.

Workshops and demonstrations will be held throughout the day to arm residents with the knowledge for the community to be more sustainable in the future.

For more information about Eco Fiesta visit www.townsville.qld.gov.au

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with a gold coin donation at the gate, with funds going to environmental focused not-for-profit groups.

Eco Fiesta 2016 includes a range of environmentally-focused exhibitors, a Welcoming Babies Ceremony with Eco Babies Hub, live entertainment and environmentally sustainable JCU Education Hub filled with ideas to assist the community in becoming more environmentally conscious and sustainable.

Event goers can also expect to enjoy delicious edible delights from a variety of sustainable food stalls, and can also

To w n

TOWNSVILLE’S biggest green and sustainable party in the park is back again this year with Eco Fiesta making a return to Queens Gardens on Sunday 29 May. The free community event highlights environmental sustainability in Townsville in a fun fiesta feel and is sure to offer something for everyone. This year’s theme is ‘In Your Home’, offering event visitors a chance to find out ways to make their homes more sustainable, and save money in the long run.

The event also offers visitors the opportunity to offset their carbon footprint

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Special Gueersts S peak Josh Byrne Tanya Batt

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Time To Change End-of-life Thinking Above: Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre volunteer Beryl Smart and Palliative care nurse Dallas Larsen.

Grass skirts, birthdays and weddings may not come to mind when you think of palliative care however at the Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre these kinds of celebrations are a normal occurrence.

IT is far from the expectation people have of palliative care, yet it is one staff of the centre hope they can share this Palliative Care Week, May 21–28.

Director of the Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre Richard Corkill said it was time to dispel the misconceptions about end-of-life care.

“We very much emphasise palliative care as a positive space; a place where people spend the last part of their lives celebrating with family and friends,” he said.

Palliative care nurse of seven years, Dallas Larsen said palliative care quite often surprised people.

“I have seen weddings here, waited with patients for the phone call announcing the birth of a grandchild and other staff have been part of celebrations such as christenings,” she said. “I have helped a patient fulfil a bucket list item by decorating their room top to bottom in Hawaiian theme as well as wearing a grass skirts and leis while serving drinks with umbrellas.

“It was truly one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had and is part of the approach we take in caring for our patients.”

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Dr Corkill said that patient care included clinical care of a patient as well as care for their social and emotional wellbeing. “We provide inpatient care, consultation to patients throughout in the hospital and in the community, nursing support to help keep people at home and an extensive program of training and education,” he said. “Physiotherapists and occupational therapists focus on safety and function for patients, social workers help with the psychological and financial impacts and volunteers help wherever possible to ease the experience of palliative care.”

Dr Corkill said staff cherished the opportunity to provide an environment fitting for patients approaching the end of their life as well as tending to their medical requirements. “Volunteers massage hands of patients, manicure nails and pamper patients and relatives and our doctors, nurses and administrative staff take the time to reflect and remember families at a special service held every three months,” he said.

Part of the philosophy of the Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre from the beginning, under the leadership of Dr Will Cairns, was to provide a space for people to access the clinical care they needed while stepping away from the clinical feel of a hospital.

“Dr Cairns’ leadership and vision in coordinating the building of the centre and the palliative care team was vital,” he said. “We must acknowledge the role he played in creating an environment that stayed true to the original vision.

“No matter how long a patient is in palliative care, be it two hours or two weeks, it was always important to combine the physical environment with the outlook and attitude of our staff to ensure end-of-life care feels nothing like a person expects it will.”

Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre volunteer Beryl Smart said palliative care support also took place in people’s homes. “It is more than just doctors and nurses. I visit patients who may not need to be in the Palliative Care Centre full-time and provide support to

their carer to go out and get groceries, go to the movies and have some personal time if they need to,” she said.

“It is part of a person-centred care approach where we not only look after the patient but their family’s wellbeing too.”

Dr Corkill said he hoped people would give thought to end-of-life care this Palliative Care Week. “Whether it is in relation to themselves, a friend, partner or family member, we hope people approach palliative care with less fear and spread the message of celebrating life,” he said.

The Townsville Hospital Palliative Care Centre is the only level 5/6 palliative care service in North Queensland and supports the care of people with lifelimiting illnesses across the community.

Community members are invited to a public session on May 28 from 9:00am – 11:45am in the Flinders Street meeting room at the Thuringowa Library for cake and educational sessions with nurses, doctors and allied health professionals as part of Palliative Care Week.

INVITATION

You are warmly invited to attend a Free Community Seminar

REBUILDING AFTER LOSS AND GRIEF FOR BOTH ADULTS & CHILDREN Morleys Funerals are committed to assisting the community with helpful topics that benefit carers and those dealing with grief and loss.

www.morleys.net.au

Guest Speakers: Suzy Dormer (Psychologist)

2 Martinez Avenue The Lakes Townsville 4779 4744 A/H 4779 2794 F 4779 5480 E funerals@morleys.net.au

Date:

Monday 30th May 7.30pm

Venue:

The Lakes Chapel, Morleys Funeral Home

RSVP:

Friday 27th May on 4779 4744 or funerals@morleys.net.au Free Registration and refreshments

May 2016 DUOMagazine

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DUOCommunity

Health and Well Being Service Group Director Vicki Carson and Nursing Director for Children’s Services Katrina Roberts.

Nurses Kirra Worth, Jessica Hannaford and Hannah Muller.

Salary Saints Would you donate $2 from your pay packet to help save a life? If you answered ‘yes’ you have the makings of a Salary Saint.

FROM big-ticket items like life-saving equipment and breakthrough medical research to everyday comforts like TVs and iPads for patients, the Townsville Hospital Foundation is focused on making a difference… and they couldn’t do it without the donations of their ‘Salary Saints’.

“You can be a Salary Saint for as little as $2 a week and it’s tax-deductible,” says Townsville Hospital Foundation General Manager Judy Higgins.

“There’s no lock-in contract, however we haven’t had a Saint opt out since Salary Saints’ inception. It’s such a good feeling for our Saints to know their money is staying in the Townsville region, where it’s having a direct impact.”

Health and Well Being Service Group director Vicki Carson has been a Salary Saint for over 20 years and has seen firsthand the difference her donations make.

“There’s a brilliant mural in the operating theatre and new chairs for patients in the cardiac ward thanks to the fund-raising efforts of the Townsville

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Hospital Foundation,” Vicki says. “While the major project is redevelopment of the Children’s Ward there is still a great deal that’s happening hospital-wide.”

Nursing Directing for Children’s Services Katrina Roberts, a Salary Saint of 14 years, has been pleased to see the fruits of her donations in the neonatal and children’s area.

“We’ve been able to buy chairs that fold out into beds so parents can stay by their child overnight. It helps keep families together,” Katrina says.

It’s not only Townsville Hospital staff who have embraced the Salary Saints program – the wider community and businesses alike have made improving the Hospital experience a priority.

“Since starting with the Foundation earlier this year, I have been amazed at the generosity of local businesses outside of the Hospital, such as JBS Meatworks and Glencore, who rally their staff together and salary sacrifice to The Townsville Hospital,” says Judy Higgins.

“These financial donations are greatly

appreciated and it just goes to show how supportive the community is of the Townsville Hospital Foundation. But it’s not only businesses that can become ‘Saints’ – any individual wishing to set up regular salary payments to the Foundation can do so and this support allows the Foundation to continue its important work. These supporters really are ‘Saints’ to us!”

If you would like to become a Salary Saint, call the Townsville Hospital Foundation on 4433 1337 or email thfoundation@health.qld.gov.au.

DUOCommunity

Free Legal Service Making A Difference A not-for-profit, specialist community legal centre, the NQ Women’s Legal Service provides free legal services to women experiencing legal problems related to domestic or family violence.

STARTED by a group of passionate Townsville women as a totally volunteer service in the mid-1990s, the NQ Women’s Legal Service (NQWLS) was granted funding by the Commonwealth Government in 1996. This was followed by the opening of an office in Townsville and Cairns.

“Services are available to women living anywhere across the top half of Queensland – from Sarina in the south, north to Cape York and west to the Northern Territory border,” says NQWLS Supervising Solicitor Sharell O’Brien.

“Women can make an appointment for legal advice at our Townsville and Cairns offices and we also provide legal advice by appointment at eight outreach clinics each month in Ayr, Charters Towers, Ingham, Mossman, Port Douglas, Atherton, Mareeba and Innisfail.

“For women in other rural and remote communities, we can set up a Skype or telephone appointment, so they can get the legal help they need, despite their remote location.”

NQWLS also has a 1800 advice line

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(1800 244 504) that operates four days each week. Unfortunately, however, for every call they answer, there are another seven calls they cannot due to limited resources.

“The demand for free legal help consistently outstrips our resources,” Sharell says. “NQWLS’ vision is to provide access to justice for all women living in North and Far North Queensland. Last year, we provided over 5200 legal services to vulnerable women in need of free legal help. Alarmingly, the number of calls made to our 1800 legal advice line doubled in the first half of 2015-16 and we expect this increasing demand for free legal help to continue.”

NQWLS provides legal information and referrals in all areas of law, including casework assistance and representation at court (within its guidelines) for domestic and family violence and family law matters.

Fortunately, NQWLS’ limited staff resources are supported by volunteer lawyers from private practice as well as law students and other community

members. However, they do need more help.

“Please help us to help women in crisis,” Sharell says. “Donate to NQWLS by going to www.nqwls.com.au and navigating to the Donate Now page. You can also become a member of NQWLS and receive a quarterly newsletter from us along with an invitation to attend various community events.

“NQWLS also has a fantastic ongoing partnership with the NQ Cowboys and the JCU Townsville Fire. Together we started the Tackle Domestic Violence campaign last year. The campaign covers various activities and community events, including the upcoming Cowboys v Broncos game at 1300 Smiles Stadium on Friday 20 May. “This year, we’re delighted to be joined in the Community Corner by ZONTA, the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Women’s Legal Service and Relationships Australia. So come on down and check out the free information and giveaways at the Tackle Domestic Violence gazebo.”

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DUOBusiness

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Mentor

Laurence Lancini MANAGING DIRECTOR LANCINI GROUP OF COMPANIES

Emerging Leader

Jarrod Hurst

DIRECTOR/BUILDER HURST CONSTRUCTIONS QLD

MOST people would describe Jarrod Hurst as good natured and a bit of a larrikin, but scratching below the surface of this Townsville North Queensland Emerging Leader presents a different side to one of the city’s brightest within the construction industry.

Beneath is a man of strong character and good judgement who is passionate about seeing this city reach its potential.

“My career has taught me many useful lessons in life, both good and bad and they have all contributed to my personal growth. One of the first important lessons was to learn from your challenging experiences in particular, I call it ‘conscious incompetence’. All failures are just stepping stones to success.

“I’m constantly learning from the people around me and I hope that never stops. My mentor in the Townsville North Queensland Emerging Leaders Program is Laurence Lancini and he’s someone I aspire to be like. He is where I would like to be and has been where I am. He’s not a bad bloke either.

“I draw inspiration from the fact that Laurence has come so far with what he has done in the times before emails and mobile phones that

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today make doing business easier. It comes down to working hard.

CBD. I see synergies for this to happen while leveraging the Asian opportunity.

“The two biggest lessons I’ve learnt from Laurence are to ‘be firm but fair’ and that ‘you don’t know if you don’t ask’. These have created many opportunities for my business.

“The future of the region is reliant on confidence. Confidence within businesses that the opportunities we are currently presented with will carry them forward and confidence within the community that this region will continue to provide the lifestyle that we enjoy.

“Participating in the Emerging Leaders Program has introduced me to people and experiences outside of my comfort zone and these will remain an important part of my life for many years to come.

“I believe these people will help carry this region forward and some of the opportunities we learnt of through the Program have opened our eyes to how this could happen.

“Townsville North Queensland is a hub for Asian markets with our Port providing easy access to the region’s agriculture and mining industries.

These opportunities should be leveraged further.

“I would also love the CBD to grow with more local businesses moving their operations in to the city. It would create a better atmosphere and attract entrepreneurs and further businesses that would inject much needed investment in to the

“I am confident of this future and see that the next ten years will bring a shift in my business that allows me to move away from the tools and focus on helping other businesses prosper in the same way that people within the Program have helped me.

“It’s an exciting future and it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Jarrod Hurst Hurst Constructions QLD jarrod@hurstconstructionsqld.com.au www.hurstconstructionsqld.com.au

Brad Stewart CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER EVOLUTION FINANCIAL PLANNING

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Providing smart financial advice... for life Evolution Financial Planning 201 Sturt Street Townsville 4772 1000 brad@evolutionfinancial.com.au

DUOBusiness | Promotion

Mercure Townsville Staff with their Certificates.

Tourism Is Everyone’s Business With a goal to increase visitor expenditure in the region by 2020 Townsville Enterprise has created a program aimed at building an army of tourism ambassadors for the region.

GONE are the days when holidays were booked based on a photoshopped image in a glossy magazine.

With thousands of tourists’ images of destinations popping up across social media sites like Facebook and Instagram and the rise of booking sites enabling consumer feedback such as TripAdvisor, these days tourists are savvier than before.

A trend towards experiential tourism where family and friends are kept up to date via social media has seen consumers booking holidays based on what they see online and by credible word of mouth experiences.

No matter where you travel, customer service is always key to one’s experience and when an experience is bad, so too will be the

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online review. Take, for example, musician Dave Carroll’s experience in 2008 when his pricey guitar was broken on a United Airlines flight. Carrol filed a complaint with the airline and when it refused to pay up he recorded a protest song entitled “United Breaks Guitars” which was viewed a whopping 12.5 million times on social media and captured widespread media attention.

Customer service was key in this example and can make or break a visitor’s experience.

In a bid to ensure visitors to the region have the best possible experience, Townsville Enterprise has developed the Townsville North Queensland Tourism Ambassador Program aimed at equipping tourism and hospitality staff with knowledge of the region.

The Program is an online ‘tourism induction’ course, targeting all areas of customer service in the region and providing a platform for tourism operators to communicate directly with members of the community who have face to face contact with visitors into our region.

Townsville Enterprise Executive Manager Tourism and Events Bridget Woods said the Program was the brainchild of Townsville Enterprise and was brought to life by the Townsville North Queensland Emerging Leaders Program.

“It was identified that there was a significant gap in the customer service sector of knowledge of what Townsville North Queensland has to offer and what better way

DUOBusiness | Promotion

to fix that than to create a course that would generate an army of ambassadors equipped with the product knowledge to promote what the region has to offer.

“We know that tourism is everyone’s business, from the taxi driver who picks you up at the airport, to the barista who serves you your morning coffee. It is critical to the future of our tourism industry that our customer service staff are able to offer advice and assistance when visitors ask for recommendations on what to do or where to eat.

“We have a goal to double expenditure across the Townsville North Queensland region by 2020 and to achieve that we need strategies like this one that will encourage visitors to stay in the region longer and have the best possible experience they can tell their friends and family about, because as we know, the most trusted form of marketing is word of mouth.”

From diving the reef to heading up into the rainforest to discover cat poo coffee, to exploring Magnetic Island by bus, taking a stroll around Townsville to discover the region’s rich military history or driving around in a golf buggy seeing some of the largest Texan longhorns in the world in Charters Towers, the program includes a range of experiences and attractions on offer across the region.

Townsville Military and Day Tours’ Toby Dean said he expects the program to be a double edged sword not only providing customer service staff with knowledge of the region but also an opportunity for him to drum up additional business.

“With those at the coal face such as receptionists, taxi drivers and wait staff becoming experts on products across the

region, our products will be able to be better sold to visitors.”

One Townsville business has already made sure all of its customer service staff have completed the Program. Mercure Townsville’s General Manager Steve Wellsteed said the Program is one of the best customer service tools he’s used.

“The program provides a great snapshot of what’s on offer across the region and is a great reference tool.

“It’s not only an opportunity to promote our own business, but a wonderful training tool for our teams. The Program appeals to us because we want to be a part of growing the local tourism industry. We will have more than 60,000 people stay and visit Mercure Townsville this year. What a great opportunity for our team to share what Townsville North Queensland has to offer with those visitors.

“It so often happens that even if people have lived in an area their whole lives, they haven’t explored their own backyard. So whether our staff are locals, or new to the region, the Ambassador Program provides relevant and current information about all the facilities, activities and experiences that Townsville North Queensland has to offer. All of the staff at Mercure who have been through the Program have learnt so much about the region and many have been pleasantly surprised with the great experiences and facilities that are available to our visitors.”

Mr Wellsteed firmly believes that promoting the region as a tourism destination is a role everyone in the community must play.

“Tourism is absolutely everyone’s business.

From the moment a visitor steps off the plane or drives into our region, they are looking to us to provide a great experience for them.

Every room they stay in, every meal they eat,

every taxi they take, every tour they book, all play a major part of their overall experience. If they enjoy every minute, they will share their enjoyment with family and friends, through social media, online channels and general word of mouth. Visitors themselves can be our best destination marketing tool, or our biggest detractors – which one is entirely up to all of us.”

The employees agree. Mercure Townsville Conference Sales Manager Jeff Webster said the online course is easy to complete and is encouraging customer service staff across the region to brush up on their skills and enrol in the course.

“I found the course easy to complete – the videos made watching the presentation interesting and the factual information was great. The option of self-pace is also good as it allows you to complete as time permits.

“Having lived in Townsville for many years you have a tendency to think you know all about the region but I was surprised to learn about the snorkel trails on Magnetic Island and also interesting points about Palm Island and the Hinchinbrook area. If an organised tour of Palm becomes available again I would definitely make every effort to attend.

“The course is great for front line staff as it refreshes and also empowers them to sell the region and allows visitors to experience some of our amazing attractions sold to them from a local’s perspective.”

The course takes around two hours to complete and is free for customer service staff across Townsville North Queensland.

To find out more about the Program and to register visit www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au

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Business Administration Consultant

Trent Yesberg Regional Business Services

You ‘May’ As Well…

The End of Financial Year is fast approaching, so you ‘May’ as well get prepared in May.

IT certainly does not feel like it is supposed to be May already, but here we are and it is important that you are preparing to finish and start the new financial year in good shape.

By now you should have completed your third quarter of book work not just for your BAS, but also for your meeting with your advisor/accountant to discuss your financial performance for FY15/16.

The reason to meet with your accountant is that there is a range of things that can be controlled and enhanced by knowing (and acting on!) your financial position.

Note these are discussion points only and NOT advice – that’s why you have a great accountant!

Things to discuss: Have you recorded all your transactions for the last 9 months correctly? Depending on whether you operate on a cash or accrual basis – this can have a major impact on how and when you record and pay for your transactions.

Could you make any contributions to your or your employees superannuation? Not only might it help you retire sooner but it could even reduce your tax.

Should you be considering some end of year purchases (equipment, office needs, CPD travel) which might assist in reducing your tax?

It is also a great opportunity to consider 30 June as a ‘line in the sand’ and make some real change in the way your business operates.

Maybe you have heard about or are considering Cloud accounting software.

May is the perfect time to test drive any products, so that they can be rolled out for 1 July. QuickBooks Online, Xero, Reckon and MYOB all have Cloud products that are definitely worth your consideration.

Depending on your requirements, each

product is unique in it’s capability and is likely to save you hours and hours of time. With simple things like using your smartphone to take a picture of a business receipt. You can upload and record it directly into your Cloud software in seconds.

Although the true beauty of Cloud computing is its ability to integrate with other software programs your business runs.

Staff can enter their own timesheets online, which pre-populate into the payroll area for your approval (KeyPay App).

If you have staff on the road completing maintenance jobs, you can track them, send them new jobs to complete, have them invoice and receive payment on the spot and heaps of other tasks without a single phone call (ServiceM8).

This new age of software makes it far easier to understand how your business is tracking throughout the year, not just when you receive your tax return/financials once a year.

Go on, you may as well.

REGIONAL BUS INES S S E R V I C E S

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DUOBusiness

Federal Member

Ewen Jones

Seat of Herbert

Infrastructure Must Produce Income And Opportunity Infrastructure, whether it’s privately or publicly funded, must provide more than just a physical presence in a city or town. Infrastructure spending must provide opportunity and income and a recent announcement in Townsville will provide both.

RECENTLY, I made the announcement about the Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) for Northern Australia would be based in Townsville. It will mean continual Federal Government and private investment over the next 10 years into research. That is $150 million being spent from Townsville on making sure we do the best possible job on developing the North of Australia.

Townsville’s selection, while obvious to all of us who live and work here, was no sure thing. It was an extremely competitive process.

We are the home to James Cook University, the only university in Australia with the remit to be a University for the Tropical World. We are home to CSIRO and TropWATER, who do extensive research into fresh water science. We are home to the Australian Institute of Marine

Science, one of the most valuable active science offices in the world. Add to that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and NQ Dry Tropics, and we have organisations which can drive good science and great results right here in our city. The ideas boom is taking place right here in our city.

The CRC is not a bureaucratic organisation. They will be coordinating real science and practical research into our region about what is possible and how we can do it better. The CRC will look into problems about which we are already aware, but we will be able to attack problems which arise as the development of Northern Australia gathers pace.

This investment will bring people to our city who want to work in these fields. It is the catalytic event people are chasing. This can be the thing that changes the perception and outlook of Townsville as a city. This is surely an exciting time for our city, a time where we will begin to look less to Brisbane and more to Asia and the Pacific.

Agriculture is where I see the science being vitally important. We all know the potential that the regions around Townsville have and the demand for our high quality exports.

Working with the industry, the CRC will ensure our region is using the best practices so that we can finally meet this potential.

The Development of Northern Australia is critically linked with water and energy security.

With that comes great responsibility to ensure that we, who live and work alongside the Great Barrier Reef, provide development which can co-exist and prosper whilst treasuring our existing environment. If we nail our water usage, guided by the best science, while living next to the GBR, there is not a country in the world where our practices will not work. And from that research jobs and industries will grow. Not just for scientists, but for the people who dig it, lift it, and shift it.

We are all proud of where we live and we must continue to convince the people down south that we are not environmental vandals.

We know that whatever we do impacts on our environment. We also know that it is how we manage those impacts which really matters. If we are to fulfil our potential, we must get the science right from the start.

We need to ensure, as has been stated throughout the North Australia White Paper endlessly, that what we can make, grow, or graft in our region can get to the markets quickly and seamlessly.

We were founded as a Port and today our Port and Airport are still vital to our economy.

We must keep pressure on these facilities to grow their business.

When it comes to our Port, the issues and plans are mounting up. It is the ability, or lack thereof, to get the trains through the port efficiently which is the key ingredient missing right now. Infrastructure Australia has the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor (TEARC) listed as a national priority. It would be a major project for our city which would bring real jobs during construction and, even more importantly, provide jobs and growth into the future as we push our products toward our customers overseas.

While commodity prices are low at present, they will not remain so. Mining companies know that if they wait, the stuff in the ground will stay there until there is a market. We will see improvements in the way mines are conducted, the commodities the world is chasing, and we will see the benefits of that flow through our port.

Port Infrastructure is not a business which has an outlook mapped at 1 to 3 years. The infrastructure continues to provide an income and jobs long after construction. The Port berths will carry many things to export to many countries, but they will be there to do so because of the investment Governments make in critical infrastructure, income producing infrastructure, in our times.

Defence and Defence Science will continue to have a major role at our port as well. When the announcement of berth 10’s construction was made in 2010, it was to house the new, as yet constructed LHD Navy ship. Next year we will see both LHD’s, The Canberra and the Adelaide, as well as the Choules, berth in Townsville for exercises with our Third Brigade. This will only get busier.

We need to look at the operation of our city and take a critical eye to it. If the TEARC was completed, what else would we see? From my perspective, I can see urban renewal in better, community use of the track corridors along Railway Avenue and through South Townsville and the city. I can see bike lanes and the like to maximise the lifestyle choices, perhaps even a new venue for the Townsville Running Festival, linking with the a Townsville science and Reef Protection precinct, all the way through our city and into our suburbs. That is what good infrastructure brings. Benefits everywhere, to everyone.

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DUOBusiness | Observation

Founding Chairman

Warwick Powell Sister City Partners

Why Ours Should Be The Zhang’s Great Outdoors FOR a region that boasts so much natural wonder, it’s hard to fathom why and how it is that tourism plays such a small part in its economic life. And yet, in North Queensland, tourism simply fades away as a foundational economic idea.

However, given the wonders within 1.5 hours’ drive time in all directions from the Townsville Airport, there’s every reason why the region’s future economic wellbeing should have nature- or outdoor-based tourism radiating at its very heart.

To do that, however, a new focus is needed.

This focus must unashamedly concentrate on building experiential tourism products that speak to the emerging middle classes of Asia (especially China), and grasp the opportunity of our natural environments to offer amazing experiences that resonate not just once in the flesh, but perpetually through the waves of the digital afterlife.

THOSE PESKY NUMBERS If you think things are going swimmingly for NQ tourism, the hard numbers on visitations and the performance of the tourism accommodation sector tell a very different story. So let’s disabuse ourselves of the fact that things are as they ought to be.

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Here are the key measures: • Room Nights Available. In the last 5 years, RNA has fallen by 53,819 (or 5.9%). This decline in RNA masks the true extent of the drop in demand if we only look at occupancy rate alone as the Key Performance Indicator.

• Room Occupancy. Over the same period, occupancy rates have dropped from 67.2% to 59%. If Room Nights Occupied in 2015 were measured against RNA 2011, the occupancy rate would be 55.5%.

• Revenues Per Available Room (RevPAR).

This has plummeted 15.6%, from $79.03 in 2011 to $66.72 in 2015.

You wouldn’t want to be in the accommodation business on these numbers.

Which, of course, is why Room Nights Available is falling.

These numbers are underpinned by particularly weak performance in corporate visitations (a sign of a flat economy), which goes to show that efforts to promote leisure visits have largely fallen flat. For the year ending June 2015, domestic and international visitation data for North Queensland showed serious softening: • Visitor numbers = +1.1% (domestic -1.6%) • Holiday visitors = -8.8% (domestic -17.3%) • Visiting family and friends = -12.9% (domestic -14.3%) International numbers were up in 2015, compensating for a big drop the year before.

But the reality is that the fall in visitation numbers was not offset by growth in expenditure. For the year ending June 2015, domestic expenditure grew by 0.3% and international visitor spend by 0.1%. Both these measures are below inflation, which means in real terms expenditure has been going backwards.

What growth we have seen in international visitor numbers is offset by the dramatic downturn in domestic visitations and the expenditure data suggests that visitors are simply not big spenders. Anecdotally, this is confirmed by the fact that the main demographic driving what growth there has been are European backpackers and schoolbased groups. Nice to have, but not renowned as big spenders in the broader scheme of things.

MISSED OPPORTUNITY The elephant in the room is Chinese tourism.

We’ve simply missed the boat to date. Rather than treating the Chinese market as an ‘emerging’ or a ‘new and developing’ market as the local strategic literature tends to do, we need to see it as central to our economic future.

Chinese tourism has been growing by leaps and bounds over the past 15 years.

It’s not a new phenomenon. It now represents 1 in 6 visitors to Australia each year; and this continues to grow. Visitors from China to Australia pipped the 1 million mark at the end of 2015.

Chinese tourists are also amongst the largest per capita spenders amongst global travellers. Indeed, Chinese tourism expenditure is some 25% larger than travellers from North America combined.

There’s a lot of reasons why, therefore, this market is vitally important.

While ‘mass tourism’ dominated Chinese tourism in its early days (think of those organised tours, large bus loads of flag following tourists being ushered into one duty free shop after another), the market itself has become more sophisticated and differentiated as it has grown.

Sure, there’s still the mass market of organised fun; but there’s also a growing market niche (and I use that word advisedly, as ‘niche’ in Chinese terms is somewhat larger than what we’d normally associate with the word) that is passionate about outdoors tourism and associated experiences.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Annual growth in outdoor tourism participation over the past 10 years in China has averaged 20%. I estimate that there are now some 30–40 million people in China who are active outdoor enthusiasts. See what I mean when I talk about niches ‘with Chinese characteristics’! Indeed, to get a sense of scale, in 2013 over $3.5 billion was spent by Chinese consumers on outdoor sports equipment, which represents a 17-fold increase in the last decade.

We can access these enthusiasts through new digitally-enabled channels. In China, they are self-organised groups and associations but use social media as their lingua franca rather than the more tradition workplace-associated tour groups. Individuals, small groups and even larger groups of outdoor enthusiasts are tapping into global experiences that ‘tick the boxes’, and they do it via the Internet.

Outdoor enthusiasts aggregate around clubs and associations. With colleagues from the University of Western Australia, Sister City Partners has been working with three associations with combined active memberships of around 3.2 million outdoors enthusiasts. These associations are direct communications channels into a pre-qualified market of ready and willing listeners.

We have groups that will travel for all sorts of outdoor experiences… whether its surfing in the Maldives (accompanied by some

DUOBusiness | Observation

luxe), mountaineering in Kathmandu, cycling through Vietnam, diving in the Philippines and Malaysia or more recently hiking in Western Australia’s Bibbulmun Track or Tasmania’s famed Overland Track. The more adventurous are finding their way to New Zealand, and there’s a keen and growing number who’ll travel the globe in search of rare and interesting birds. Recreational angling is also on the rise; you never know, I might get to host a trout fishing group one day!

And of course, here in the North, we have the Great Barrier Reef. Any wonder why the Fungs are still ploughing ahead with Aquis?

GIDDY UP; NICHE IN NICHES Another emerging niche amongst niches is the burgeoning recreational equestrian market in China. This market has grown in recent years by an annual average of 17–20%, and there are now over 400,000 registered horse riding amateurs in China. To support these, there are now already over 500 equestrian or riding clubs, mainly in the larger and richer cities along China’s coast.

So we have another opportunity to build a unique experiential offer to meet the needs of the emergent equestrian community from China (and more broadly, Asia’s middle classes). Locally, we’ve a strong and enthusiastic equestrian scene; bigger than many outside of it could ever imagine. Despite the climatic deterrent of often unbearably hot summers, the long balmy autumns and temperate winters offers ideal conditions for a sustained season of equestrian pursuits.

Whether it’s trail riding, show jumping, eventing, polo tournaments or dressage (not to mention the Spring Racing Carnival with the thoroughbreds), right through to organised annual horse sales events (horse fairs, if you will), the North is well positioned to build

strong business cases for investor interest and tourism traffic.

A TRULY EXPANSIVE TABLEAU At the risk of sounding blasphemous, I’d suggest that the natural wonders of the North (narrowly viewed as those experiences that can be accessed within 1.5 hours of Townsville) make the most sense when they are integrated into a broader experiential tableau that stretches from the Whitsundays through to Cape York.

As much as the Narrow North has incredible depth and breadth in its own right, a larger audience can be reached when the experiential-product offer is also broadened out. There are also pragmatic reasons for this expansive view of the world: it allows for a more scaffolded range of experiences and price points, caters for the growing market in self-drive travel, and to not put too fine a point on it, gains access to the direct international routes linking Cairns to the rest of the world and Asia in particular.

The experiences of the Great North are diverse and expansive. The emergence of nascent regional cuisine styles also opens up another niche within a niche, which can occupy a visitor for the best part of a week weaving their way through the fruits and ocean delights of the tropics through to the grassraised beef and other exotics of the dry tropics.

SYSTEMIC RESPONSE NEEDED There’s plenty of spare room capacity at the moment in Townsville. But the truth is, if the region is to truly grow its tourism industry so that it offers significant and meaningful employment to many in the form of careers (not just casual seasonal jobs), then we’re going to need to see a commitment to an integrated approach.

This approach recognises that the ultimate aim is to achieve direct international connectivity to growth markets in China on the one hand, and expanded flights to domestic markets in the south. The uniqueness of the experiential offer must sit at the heart of any regional value proposition, and be tied to a scaffolded infrastructure of supporting accommodation that can cater to the needs in both qualitative and also in volume terms.

If Townsville is to build a strong business case for more international flights, and carve out new routes to and from China, then it is going to need to expand its tourism accommodation offer. Direct flights are going to need some 120,000+ passengers per year minimum to justify, which means a capacity to accommodate at least 3,000 more visitors each and every week. Direct flights and expanded accommodation offers go hand in hand, as vertical integration can mitigate risks for airlines and accommodation operators.

Aquis is working off an expected annual outbound flow of some 200 million Chinese tourists from 2020 onwards, and hopes to attract 1 million per year to Cairns. To accommodate this, Aquis is planning 7,500 hotel rooms (over 2.7 million available room nights per year). Townsville and NQ more generally is working off a different base, but needs to be similarly ambitious so that we can tap into Great Northern overflow and build towards direct flights in our own right.

By building experiential outdoorbased tourism products, working more collaboratively with Cairns, enabling more tourism accommodation to be developed at scale to support the long-run objective of direct international flights from China, and actively targeting through in-country actions pre-qualified channels of outdoor travellers and nature enthusiasts, the region’s unbound potential in its outdoor wonders can be untapped.

Warwick Powell is the founding Chairman of Sister City Partners, a regional not-forprofit investment bank with headquarters in Townsville. He brings almost 20 years of experience in global capital markets and project development and finance to bear on the challenges of creating regional resilience.

He is an iconoclast who questions and challenges orthodox thinking.

More information about Sister City Partners visit www.sistercitypartners.com.au. Warwick is active on LinkedIn. Search him and hook up.

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Managing Director

Christian Gordon 360 Cre8ive Enterprises

Public Relations – Building Social Capital “If I had one dollar left, I’d spend it on PR.” Bill Gates

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PUBLIC Relations is an often misunderstood concept, with terms such as ‘spin doctor’ casting a dubious light on what is a serious profession that has evolved over decades through business, government and media. In today’s world of armchair journalism and viral social media, public relations management is now more than ever an area of expertise that all organisations need.

By definition, public relations is the management of the relationship between an organisation (or a person) and the outside world. It is about reputation management, persuasion, influence and control of a message within a range of markets and audiences and in a range of spheres – internal, external, online and in the digital/social media arena. It is a management function that monitors and evaluates public attitudes and perceptions and builds social capital for the brand/organisation.

Another common misconception is that only large organisations need a public relations strategy and function. This could not be further from the truth. The reality is that a public relations strategy is one of the most important areas of your organisation and should be intrinsically linked to your business and marketing plans.

What is the difference between PR and marketing?

Many organisations struggle to identify the difference between marketing and public relations and the role of social media in both.

A great way to understand the difference is to consider them in three categories: • OWNED MEDIA is coverage gained through channels that you own. This includes social media sites, website, blog, apps etc.

• EARNED MEDIA is coverage gained through public relations, press coverage, controlled or influenced editorial, influencer relations, reviews, word of mouth, organic publicity etc. This is often seen as the most credible type of media.

• PAID MEDIA is coverage gained through paid means. This includes traditional advertisements, brochures, sponsored social media posts, email marketing, etc.

Generally speaking, a PR professional looks after the EARNED and content of the OWNED media. A marketing, design and/or advertising agency looks after the PAID media.

Why do you need a PR strategy?

Social capital is a term that is used to describe an organisation’s reputation (their level of trust and favour) in their external world. When social capital is strong, organisations/brands flourish. It also makes it easier for a brand to recover in the event of a crisis, than if the outside world has a weak perception and low level of trust.

Building social capital through an effective PR strategy will underpin every activity of an organisation from customer service through to product delivery and every written word that is disseminated online and in print.

All organisations, irrespective of their size or geographic location should have a PR strategy relevant to their needs. A PR strategy scaffolds the marketing and business plan. It is the development of a culture and the careful management of reputation that protects organisations in good times and supports and guides them in times of trouble.

DUOBusiness

Director

Karen Quagliata Northern Tax & Financial Services

It’s All About The Kids, But Is It Really?

THE cost of raising our children is not reducing, however the eligibility to obtain certain government benefits is changing. As per www.humanservices.gov.au: Family Tax Benefit is a two part payment that helps with the cost of raising children.

To be eligible you must: • have a dependent child or secondary student younger than 20 years of age who is not receiving a pension, payment or benefit such as Youth Allowance • provide care for the child for at least 35% of the time • meet an income test

From 1 July 2016 there will be changes to Family Tax Benefit and these include the following: • If you are a member of a couple and your youngest child is 13 years of age or over, you will no longer be paid Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part B. This relates to couples where the primary earner has an adjusted taxable income of $100,000 or less per year.

• The amount of Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part B you get usually depends on the age of your youngest child.

• FTB Part B will not be affected by these changes if you are a single parent, grandparent or great grandparent carer, but just bear in mind however that if you are a single parent family, you will not be eligible for FTB Part B if your annual adjusted taxable income is more than $100,000.

• If your income is at or below this limit, you should continue to get the maximum rate of FTB Part B. • If you are a grandparent or great grandparent carer, you must be registered as a grandparent carer before 1 July 2016 to ensure your FTB Part B continues to be paid What is the maximum rate of FTB Part B currently? If your youngest child is under 5 years of age, the amount is $152.88 or $4,339.85 annually. If your youngest child is 5–18 years of age, the amount is $106.82 or $3,139.00 annually.

The fortnightly payments do not include the FTB Part B supplement of $354.05 per family for the 2015–16 financial year. That supplement can only be paid after the end of the financial year.

What is the FTB Part B supplement? This is a supplement of up to $354.05 per family paid after the end of the financial year once your

payments have been balanced.

This payment will happen after you and your partner have lodged your tax returns and your income details are confirmed by the Australian Taxation Office, or when you notify Centrelink that you are not required to lodge.

The amount of supplement you receive will depend on your family income and circumstances.

For those travelling outside Australia, the length of time you can continue to receive FTB, and other similar benefits while you are travelling overseas is changing.

Visit the www.humanservices.gov.au site for further reading on this topic.

In addition to this, the Large Family Supplement will no longer be paid, another challenge for those with four or more children.

What does this mean for larger families?

We will wait in anticipation for the Budget for 2016–17 (to be released Tuesday evening, 3 May 2016, by the Treasurer) to see if families will be impacted further from future changes.

To make the most of your situation, the sooner you lodge your income tax return after 30 June 2016, the sooner your payments and reconciliation of payments can be calculated.

The information provided is general advice only. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives and you should seek the assistance of a qualified advisor before you make any decision regarding any products mentioned. Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, no warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly Northern Tax & Financial Services Pty Ltd employees or agents shall not be liable on any ground whatsoever with respect to decisions or actions taken as a result of you acting upon such information.

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DUOBusiness | Sustainable Leadership

Founder

Peter Baines

OAM

Hands Across The Water

Lessons Learnt From The Slums IT’S all about the kids.

As the Founder of the charity Hands Across the Water, in the aftermath of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, I set out to build a home for the kids in an area of Thailand which I was working. These kids had lost their parents and for a number of them their extended family as well. For me it’s very much all about the kids.

When I tell stories of the kids, those in need, those without options, it invokes emotion, compassion and a desire amongst many to help. It’s for the kids right, how could you not want to help.

Attracting the charity dollar from supporters in what is a very busy and crowded market, it’s not easy but there always seems to be an increased sense of compassion and goodwill when what you are doing is raising money and support for those who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in need. And often that need is the desperate kind. But the more time I spend working in this area, and it’s now eleven years since I started Hands to support those thirty-two kids who were living in a tent, the more I experience the need of others and it’s no longer all about the kids.

Ask yourself, who in society are among those who have the quietest voice and attract the least attention often suffering in silence, behind closed doors? If you said it was the elderly or the disabled you wouldn’t be far off the mark. But what about when the elderly are

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“Walking into their home for the first time, it was a sight that will stay with me forever, and I’d suggest that is a good thing.”

PETER BAINES

disabled, their voice is seldom heard and there doesn’t seem to be too many charities out there making a lot of noise and working to support this vulnerable group within society. And why is that?

Do we find as a society it’s more attractive to support the young and innocent, is it because they have their lives ahead of them, is it because they couldn’t have contributed to their lot in life and therefore are more deserving of help?

The need for help of this often forgotten group who live without a real voice becomes desperately sad when they live within a society that doesn’t have the support and aged pension that is offered to our senior citizens here in Australia. We might not have the model right here in Australia, but health care, housing and a modest fortnightly income is provided for our seniors.

Working in the Khlong Toei slums of Bangkok over the last six years as part of the expanded reach of Hands, I have become increasingly aware of the silent suffering of those who are elderly and suffering from a debilitating disability. For some they deal with a condition that has been with them all their lives, others it might be a result of an accident, disease or stroke that has left them impaired in some way. The impairment for many and their advancing age means they can’t compete for the jobs that exist. How then do they live when there is no government support coming their way?

I spent 22 years working as a forensic practitioner with the New South Wales Police attending scenes of crime collecting forensic evidence. I investigated horrific scenes of death dealing with hundreds of victims after the Bali Bombings and then the thousands of bodies

DUOBusiness | Sustainable Leadership

after the Boxing Day tsunami. Seeing those decomposing bodies laying in the temple at Wat Yan Yao will stay with me forever, there are sights that you can’t un-see. But it’s not the hundreds of scenes of death that I investigated that plays on my mind, it’s the living conditions of the elderly in the slums of Bangkok.

There is obscene wealth in Thailand but as you may suspect it is held by an incredibly small minority. The lack of equal distribution of that wealth is not confined to Thailand and in developing countries the distance between the rich and poor is often stark.

When I walk through the slums of Khlong Toei, I am reminded of the remarkable resilience that is shown by those who live in that environment. Some of the stories that I hear, the sights that I see and the people that I meet, they stay with me. Long after I leave the slums and long after I return to the comfort

and affluence that many of us share living in Australia.

The work that we do to support the kids that I first met in 2005, continues. Our support has grown and we now provide a safe environment for 286 kids each night, across seven different homes that we have built or run in Thailand. We have 28 of our older kids now studying at university and this level of support will bring about change to their lives and hopefully their children in due course.

Education creates the pathway for sustained change, that is clear.

But what of the elderly and the elderly who live with a disability in the slums of Khong Toei? Education is not the answer for them.

They are either due to age, circumstances, their disability or limited opportunities condemned to live the life that many have been living for years and in some case decades.

The story became very real for me when I met Mr and Mrs Bai. Mr Bai was a man who had the scars and body of someone who had worked a long hard life. He had wispy grey hard, a tanned body and strong arms reflecting someone who had lived a life of hard physical labour performed in the outdoors. He was now in his late seventies and that strength was starting to diminish. His days, as they had been for the last ten years were spent caring for his wife, who was paralysed from a stroke and is fed four times a day through a nose tube. Their only income is from their physically disabled forty year old son who works at night, when work is available earning just over ten dollars a night.

Walking into their home for the first time, it was a sight that will stay with me forever, and I’d suggest that is a good thing. It serves as a constant reminder of why I do what I do.

The house was seven metres by six metres, that wasn’t the living area or bedroom, that was the entire house. The timber boards that served as the walls had gaps that you could pass your hand through and the house, as are all those in the slums are built on reclaimed land of the port authority of Bangkok, which is fine until it rains, which it does often in Thailand. The rains cause the water level to rise, which floods their home.

But for Mr and Mrs Bai, we’ve manage to change things for them. I led a team into the slums last year and in a ridiculously short period of time we were able to relocate the family into a temporary home, empty the house of their possessions and then demolish the home. All of this took a couple of hours and by lunch time that same day local builders that we had contracted were in place and sinking concrete posts into the ground which

would be the foundations for their new home.

Forty three days after meeting Mr Bai, he moved into a new home that couldn’t have been more different than what he had spent the last thirty years living in.

The teams that I take into the slums to support families like Mr Bai are not builders and we’re not confused by our abilities and ambitions. We fund the building of the new home and employ local builders to do the building work so importantly it won’t fall down and secondly the benefit of the employment remains in the community.

The benefit for those who join me in the work in the slums is hard to measure. It leaves an impression on your soul. You see sights that you can’t un-see, and as I said that is a good thing. The people you get to share the experience with, the perspective they have on life, centres you in a way that is hard to imagine. In July, I take another team away on the next Social Venture Program* for another week long experience and if you feel you would like to do something for yourself and those who are often forgotten about, you are more than welcome to join me. *http://socialventureprogram.com Working with the elderly in the slums of Bangkok is one of, if not the most rewarding experiences I have had, maybe its because one day in the not too distant future we will all be beyond our working careers and it would be nice to think if we didn’t have the capacity to care for ourselves that someone would be there to lend a hand.

So, what started out as being all about the kids, what I’ve come to realise is that it doesn’t necessarily to have to be so.

Peter Baines OAM became passionate for sustainable leadership after he took part in the natural disaster response team who witnessed the devastating effects of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami.

In late 2005, Peter established Hands Across the Water, a charity that raises funds for and awareness of Thai children who were left orphaned by the disaster. Today, Peter helps businesses build effective sustainable leadership while travelling the globe as a keynote speaker.

Published by WILEY, Doing Good by Doing Good is available now in paperback RRP $34.95 from www.peterbaines.com.au

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Presented by Townsville City Council, Wuthering Heights is showing at Townsville Civic Theatre on Thursday 2 and Friday 3 June.

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Photography by Dylan Evans

DUOArts+Events

DUOArts+Events

EMILY Brontë’s classic Gothic masterpiece storms the country in a new adaptation from the company behind the critically acclaimed productions of George Orwell’s Animal Farm and 1984, as shake & stir theatre company return to Townsville Civic Theatre with their critically-acclaimed production of Wuthering Heights on 2–3 June.

When Heathcliff, a mysterious boy is rescued from the street and brought to Wuthering Heights, he develops a passionate bond with Cathy Earnshaw and a repulsive distrust of her brother Hindley. As time passes, Heathcliff and Cathy’s relationship deepens to the point of dangerous obsession, until one day, Cathy marries another man. Overcome with jealousy, Heathcliff flees the Heights only to return, years later, ready to exact revenge on those he believed ruined his one chance at true happiness. shake & stir’s Artistic Director, Nick Skubij who adapted and directed this bold new work said; “Aside from being an outstanding story of revenge, love and loss, we chose Wuthering Heights to re-imagine as, with every shake & stir production, we aim to invigorate classics for a new audience.”

“Theatrically we are also pushing the boundaries and thanks to our esteemed design team Wuthering Heights will surprise and shock in all the right ways – we are literally bringing the natural elements into theatre.” adds Skubij.

Love Is A Dirty Word.

Brontë’s gothic masterpiece, retold in bold new work.

Established in 2006, shake & stir theatre co is one of Australia’s leading contemporary theatre companies specialising in the creation of new work. shake & stir produces an annual season of Mainstage and in-school productions that tour to venues and schools throughout the country.

Wuthering Heights has already mesmerised audiences in Brisbane playing a sold-out season at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in 2014 and garnering stellar reviews: “shake & stir theatre co is undoubtedly Brisbane’s (nay Australia’s) best literary stage adaptors, and they continue to carry the mantle in their new adaptation of Emily Brontë’s gothic masterpiece, Wuthering Heights.”

- Aussie Theatre

Presented by Townsville City Council, Wuthering Heights is showing at Townsville Civic Theatre at 10.30am and 7.30pm on Thursday 2 June, and at 10.30am on Friday 3 June.

Tickets are $45 each with concession and student pricing available and are available from www.ticketshop.com.au or by phoning the box office on 4727 9797.

shake & stir theatre co’s production of Wuthering Heights is supported by the Playing Queensland Fund and ArTour, initiatives of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, part of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

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What’s On This Month EVENTS Mother’s Day Classic Townsville 8 May from 6.30am Riverway, Thuringowa Central Magnetic Island 8 May from 7am Armand Way, Arcadia The fun run and walk is a way to honour those affected by breast cancer and to support research into the disease. www.mothersdayclassic.com.au JAM Aquarium Dinner 13 May 6.30pm Reef HQ Aquarium Flinders Street, Townsville www.jamcorner.com.au 4721 4900 T150 Heritage Day 15 May 9am Take a walk back in time and celebrate Townsville’s 150th anniversary. West End Park www.townsville.qld.gov.au 1300 878 001 Riverway Movie Night 20 May 6.30pm Riverway Oval, Thuringowa www.townsville.qld.gov.au 1300 878 001 Keeping NQ Abreast of the Times One Day Breast Cancer Conference 21 May 8.30am–4.30pm Rydges Southbank Palmer Street, South Townsville nqbcconference@gmail.com.au 0420 361 364 Dragons Abreast Townsville Celebration of Life Dinner 21 May 6.30pm Rydges Southbank Palmer Street, South Townsville nqbcconference@gmail.com.au 0420 361 364

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Tommy PAU Wer Tik (Milky Way) Lino cut

Burdekin Cup Growers Race Day 21 May 11am Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill burdekinraceclub1@bigpond. com 4782 1665 Eco Fiesta 29 May 9am–3pm Queens Gardens, North Ward www.townsville.qld.gov.au 1300 878 001

THEATRE + CONCERTS Doug Anthony Allstars 7 May 8pm Townsville Civic Theatre www.ticketshop.com.au 4727 9797 Graeme Connors 60 Summers 28 May 7.30pm Riverway Arts Centre, 20 Village Boulevard, Thuringowa Central www.ticketshop.com.au 4727 9797

EXHIBITIONS Glencore Percival Portrait Painting Prize 6 May–10 July The biennial Glencore Percival Portrait Painting Prize is North Queensland’s own portrait competition and is held at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. ptrg@townsville.qld.gov.au 4727 9011 DUO Magazine Percival Photographic Portrait Prize 13 May–10 July 2016 marks the return of the DUO Magazine Percival Photographic Portrait Prize, an exhibition launched by Pinnacles Gallery in 2014.

Pinnacles Gallery Riverway Arts Centre pinnacles@townsville.qld.gov.au 4773 8871

Ad Wer: Story of the Stars from Eastern Torres Strait by Tommy Pau May 20 – May 31 JCU Library, Douglas www.umbrella.org.au 4772 7109 Beauty In the Making by Matthew Gianoulis 27 May–8 July Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts www.umbrella.org.au 4772 7109

SPORT NRL Cowboys 20 May 7.50pm v Brisbane Broncos 1300 Smiles Stadium www.ticketek.com.au 132 849 Mendi TDRL Blackhawks 14 May 4pm v CQ Capras 21 May 4pm v Mackay Cutters Jack Manski Oval www.blackhawkstsv.com.au 4773 8000 NPL Northern Fury FC 21 May 7.30pm v Moreton Bay United 28 May 7pm v SW Queensland Thunder Townsville Sports Reserve www.northernfury.com.au 4412 5255

MARKETS Cotters Rotary Markets Flinders Street, Sundays 8.30am–1pm.

Willows Rotary Markets Willows Shopping Centre car park, Sundays 7.30am–11.30am.

Magnetic Island Friday Night RSL Markets Arcadia, Fridays 5.30pm–8pm. Horseshoe Bay Markets, second and fourth Sundays 9am–2pm. NQ Farmers Markets North Shore Town Centre, Burdell, Saturdays.

Cotters Market Handmade Arts and Craft Precinct, Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, third Sundays 8.30am–1pm. Bushland Beach Markets, first and third Sundays 8am–1pm. Balgal Beach Market Beachside Fisherman’s Landing, first and third Saturdays 8am–1pm. Label Traders Market Mundingburra State School, third Sundays 8am–12noon.

Renegade Handmade Market The Marian School, second Sundays 8am–1pm. Castle Hill PCYC Markets Sundays 7am–11am.

Arcadia Markets Arcadia Hotel, every Wednesday and Friday 5pm–8pm. Carlyle Gardens Arts & Crafts Market, Carlyle Gardens, first Saturdays 9am–12noon.

Photos courtesy of CityLibraries Top: Parade in Flinders Street, outside the Post Office.

Bottom: Pacific Festival parade, Flinders Street East, August 1987.

DUOArts+Events

Iconic Pacific Festival Returns For T150 Celebrations THE much loved Pacific Festival, which ran in Townsville for over 20 years, will return in June as part of the 2016 T150 celebrations for the city.

The T150 4TOFM Pacific Festival is an event to foster community participation, create pride and recall nostalgia of previous years. Running over three days and nights (June 3–5) the festival will throw the city into party mode with a traditional Pacific Festival Parade along the Strand, carnival at Jezzine Barracks, concerts, a Friday night car cruise and show, Strand Night Markets, and the Townsville Tourism Expo. The Pacific Festival first launched in 1970 and coincided with the 200 year anniversary of Captain Cook’s first visit to the Pacific Region. The T150 4TOFM Pacific Festival program includes carnival rides and fun fair, a variety of entertainment, car display, food court and much more. Highlights will include fireworks displays on both Friday and Saturday nights, Sunday Jazz and a

experience it www.townsville.qld.gov.au

Live

32-metre Ferris Wheel at Jezzine Barracks.

On Sunday the traditional ‘festival finale’, the Pacific Festival Parade of colourful and creative floats will make its way along the Strand, culminating in the carnival and entertainment at Jezzine.

The T150 4TOFM Pacific Festival is part of a year-long packed calendar of events which will also include T150 Heritage Day, the T150 Port of Townsville Gala Dinner Under the Stars and the T150 Defence Force Air Show and Townsville Bulletin Sky Show among others.

Townsville’s T150 Celebrations are made possible by the support of its official T150 sponsors Australian Defence Force, Townsville Bulletin, Port of Townsville, 4TOFM, Yellow Pages, and James Cook University.

For more information about the T150 4TOFM Pacific Festival, please visit www.townsville150.com.au

> arts > culture > events

The North Queensland Festival of One Act Plays

T150 Heritage Day

6 – 8 May, Various times riverway arts centre

15 May, 10am – 2pm west end park, ingham road west end

The annual North Queensland Festival of One Act Plays provides amateur actors and directors an opportunity to produce quality theatre for the enjoyment of live audiences, and to receive feedback from industry professionals through the adjudication process. 29 plays from across the region will be competing throughout the three day festival. You’ll enjoy everything from comedy and drama, from the experimental to the absolutely absurd.

Take a walk back in time and celebrate Townsville’s 150th anniversary at the T150 Heritage Day, West End Park. Take a ride on a vintage Chevy bus, enjoy live entertainment, experience guided tours through the historic cemetery and check out the historic information displays.

In celebration of Townsville’s 150th anniversary, Heritage Day 2016 will play host to ‘Townsville Yarns’, a special event that delves deep into Townsville’s rich history and heritage told by local and visiting identities.

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DUOHinchinbrookPromotion

Troy WYLES-WHELAN Yamini (Coming Home) Acrylic and oil on canvas

Join in all the fun, tours, events and entertainment at TYTO – art, culture, nature, knowledge EVENTS Artist in Residence Weekly May and June Monday to Wednesday 10am–4pm This 12 week Artist-in-Residence program introduces local Indigenous artist Troy WylesWhelan, from the Warrgamy and Nawaigi people of Bagirrbarra (Herbert Valley) and a Warrgamay Traditional Owner/Custodian.

Troy will be producing a sculptural installation comprising of a collective of message poles depicting the stories and language of the local area. Visitors are invited to interact with the artistin-residence, and participate in workshops which will be held through the course of his residency.

This programme is made possible through RADF funding. The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Hinchinbrook Shire Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

TYTO Artist-in-Residence, next door to Regional Art Gallery Movie Magic celebrates PAPER PLANES Friday 6 May from 6pm Family Movie Night Rated PG. An imaginative children’s film about a young Australian boy’s passion for flight and his challenge to compete in the World Paper Plane Championships in Japan. A pre-movie themed craft activity will be available. Food and beverages available for purchase. FREE event.

TYTO Inflight Movie @ Progress Park, Forrest Beach Tasman Turtle Picnic Day Saturday 21 May 11am–4pm See advertisement on opposite page. FREE event.

TYTO Parklands

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Sunday Session Live Music 29 May 4.30pm–6.30pm.

FREE event.

Opening the season is Amy Zaghini.

Amy’s songs have been heard on commercial radio and have also seen success in Triple J’s Unearthed Competition. Amy launched her independent debut album Sweet Out Of Sight in Townsville in December 2014 and more recently her music video for single We’re Done. Enjoy the afternoon overlooking the picturesque lagoons at TYTO. BYO rug or chairs.

Food and beverages are available for purchase. BYO alcohol in designated areas only.

TYTO Amphitheatre

EXHIBITIONS 2D 3D – With a Pinch of Salt Ingham Art Society Annual Exhibition 8 April to 1 May Daily 10am–4pm.

The Ingham Art Society Member’s exhibition will be a melting pot of artist endeavours showcasing a diversity of styles, media, subject matter and imagination.

Artworks creatively derived from the paint brush to the bush. This year’s show is guaranteed to enliven your senses and add new flavour to your artistic tastes.

TYTO Regional Art Gallery 31st Battalion – The Kennedy Regiment mini Museum Daily 10am–4pm.

The collection showcases a compilation of published works, periodicals, military records, photographs, writings, ephemera and artefacts sharing the history of The Kennedy Regiment, including the 31st Battalion, 31/51st Battalion and the 2/31st Battalion and their role in the Australian military narrative. The Museum honours

and celebrates the 31st Battalion – The Kennedy Regiment and the Spirit of Gallipoli in the 100th year anniversary.

Hinchinbrook Shire Library

TOURS TYTO Wetland Tours Wednesday and Saturday 9am Adult $15pp Child 5–14 $5pp Discover the Wetlands and learn about some of the 240 bird species found at TYTO. Conditions: minimum numbers or by appointment, group savings available. TYTO Information & Wetlands Centre Sugar Tracks Free Display: Daily 10am–4pm Paid Tour: Tuesday and Saturday 10am. Adult $25pp Child 5–14 $15pp. Conditions: minimum numbers or by appointment, group savings available.

A journey that brings to life a yesteryear that shaped the great pioneering cane communities of Hinchinbrook. Meet at Hinchinbrook Shire Library

MARKETS Hinchinbrook Market Day Thursday 5 May, 8.30am–1.30pm Enjoy the morning or pop in over lunch to wander through this collective of regional delights, from fresh produce, local preserves and baked goods, to original works by local artisans and craft enthusiasts. Chat to farmers, watch demonstrations, take part in workshops and purchase unique gifts or keepsakes. Bring the kids

and keep them busy with an activity, exchange your old books at the free book exchange or just enjoy live music and have time out.

TYTO Parklands off Macrossan Avenue, Ingham.

WORKSHOPS Freestyle AUDIO 8 and 22 May 10am–4pm. FREE Make your own music with the assistance of a Sound Engineer.

Studio now has photographic equipment for use also. Bookings essential. Double Daw Creative Studio (see Library) All dates and times are correct at printing. For up to date information please see our Facebook page or the website. All listings subject to change without notice.

There is more happening at TYTO every day. Please go to our Facebook page for further details.

CONTACT TYTO TYTO Information & Wetlands Centre 4776 4792 TYTO Regional Art Gallery 4776 4725 TYTO Conference & Event Centre 4776 4726 Hinchinbrook Shire Library 4776 4614

visit TYTO www.tyto.com.au

games,music, food,displays, workshops

free family event SATURDAY 21 may 11.00am - 4.00pm @ TYTO Parklands Ingham

Discover fun this may @TYTO Enjoy a day of adventure and discovery of art, culture, nature and knowledge with Tasman Turtle and his friends at our annual family Picnic Day. The day is jam packed with activities, workshops, games, food and entertainment for you and your family.

TASMAN TURTLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PICNIC DAY When: SATURDAY 21 MAY 2016 Where: TYTO PARKLANDS, INGHAM Time: 11.00AM - 4.00PM Event:

COST: FREE EVENT. All entertainment, activities, workshops and games are free of charge. Food and beverages available for purchase.

ENTRY: The event in the TYTO Parklands is accessible from entrances off the Bruce Highway at Cooper St and Macrossan Ave and 73-75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.

PARKING: Car parking is available at Cooper St, Macrossan Ave and 73-75 McIlwraith St, Ingham, as well as on street parking.

WET WEATHER: In the event of inclement weather the event will be postponed to the following Saturday 28 May. Check facebook for updates.

TYTO is owned and operated by Hinchinbrook Shire Council

DUOArts+Events

Peeking Through Windows Townsville’s sustained interest in portraiture is reflective of the genre’s enduring popularity around the world.

A portrait provides us with not only a physical likeness, but also a window into the sitter’s life, into their mind and their soul. The voyeur in each of us delights at the opportunity to peek through these windows time and again. Indeed, as an indulgent glimpse into the lives of others, portraits pre-date the (somewhat unfortunate) rise of reality television in the early 2000s, and our current obsession with social media.

More significant than simply predating these mediums, portraits continue to provide us with more considered and compelling insights into the lives of others.

Since 2007, the voyeur in each of us has been afforded the chance to go peeking through many windows at The Percivals, Townsville’s biennial portrait prize. Beginning as a $3,000 prize exhibition at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, an overwhelming response saw the exhibition return in 2008, and become a biennial event from this point forward. Since this time, the show has delighted many, and also courted its share of controversy, as seems the norm for any portrait prize of note.

In 2016, two major exhibitions underpin The Percivals; the Glencore Percival Portrait Painting Prize at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, and for the second time, the DUOMagazine Percival Photographic Portrait Prize at Pinnacles Gallery.

The windows we can peek through when visiting these two exhibitions are many and varied. In the Glencore Percival Portrait Painting Prize, over 90 works by artists from every corner of the country depict politicians, actors, athletes, artists, musicians, activists,

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teachers, environmentalists, family, and friends. These works evoke every emotion imaginable, from Mark Tweedie’s brooding Things tend to go wrong with me, to Jan Hynes’ humorous Balancing with Head on the Ground.

More than 60 finalists have been selected for the DUOMagazine Percival Photographic Portrait Prize, with the calibre of entries again strong after a stunning debut in 2014. The exhibition takes us on a visual journey through every phase of life, from Danny Tucker’s confronting and beautiful work Felix’s Birth, to parenthood so honestly captured in Sam Scoufos’ work Portrait of a Greek Man and Son; the years of hard work depicted in Rosana Kersh’s Big Kahuna, to the latter years as seen in Stephen Dupont’s Senora Habana Veija: Portrait of an Old Woman.

Artists working in both the painting and photographic mediums have also chosen as their subjects notable and topical figures, such as George Fetting’s Lee Lin Chin, Alexander McKenzie’s Matt Corby, or Sean Hutton’s depiction of Robert James Lee ‘Bob’ Hawke, while our curiosity about those living in our own community is also satisfied through additional acquisitive Townsville 150th Anniversary Awards in each exhibition.

Only finalists residing in the Townsville local government area who have captured a portrait of a local sitter are eligible for these Awards, a fitting celebration in the year Townsville officially marks 150 years since being declared a municipality.

As with every Percivals, I’m sure the Townsville community will be captivated not only by the quality of works on display, but also the opportunity to take a little peek into the lives of others.

Stephen DUPONT Senora Habana Veija: Portrait of an Old Woman 2015 67 x 100 cm Giclee pigment ink on rag paper

DUOArts+Events

â&#x20AC;&#x153;More significant than simply pre-dating these mediums, portraits continue to provide us with more considered and compelling insights into the lives of others.â&#x20AC;?

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Danny TUCKER Felixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birth 2015 65 x 90 cm Photographic print

Mark TWEEDIE Things tend to go wrong with me 2015 122 x 84 cm Oil on canvas

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DUOArts+Events Sam SCOUFOS Portrait of a Greek Man and Son 2015 120 x 80 cm Giclee print

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George FETTING Lee Lin Chin 2016 120 x 80 cm Archival pigment print on cotton rag

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Rosana KERSH Big Kahuna 2016 120 x 80 cm Photographic print

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Sean HUTTON Robert James Lee ‘Bob’ Hawke 2016 89 x 89 cm Oil on linen

Alexander McKENZIE Matt Corby 2015 197 x 153 cm Oil on linen

Jan HYNES Balancing with Head on the Ground and Feet in the Clouds 2016 150 x 100 cm Oil on canvas

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DUOSeen

Burdekin Fashion Showcase at ‘On Track On Trend’

Capones Night Club – Queens Hotel Ayr Ayr fashion outlets Ispyit Boutique, L’Shu and Glen Dell showed off new trends for race wear at the Queens Hotel while local milliners Katerine Falco, Lauren Burbidge and Bhree Haller unveiled their Autumn/Winter headwear collections alongside other well-known brands.

Proceeds were donated to the Burdekin Race Club to assist plans for the Burdekin Growers Race Day on May 21.

Peter Peach Photography

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1. Jade Bolam, Kelli Dabelstein, Hayley Aplin 2. Julie Kelly, Christina Dingle 3. Robin Peach, Rachael Southern 4. Christine Dingle, Shari Dingle 5. Vivien Haller, Robyn Miller 6. Julie Blakey, Alison Blakey 7. Hayley Vidler, Christine Viero 8. Nora Andersen, Ann Marie Hudson 9. Gay Lewis, Janai Giddy 10. Melissa Schiappadori, Joy Peach

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Mercedes Trophy Golf Day

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Mercedes-Benz Townsville held their annual Mercedes Trophy Golf Day on April 22nd at the Townsville Golf Course.

Congratulations and good luck to the winner Adrian Pertile, who will now progress to the national final.

Josephine Carter Photography

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1. Robyn Dyer, Chris Ferrari 2. Janelle Malcolm, Michael Buck 3. Georgina Lewis, Glenn Elms, Karen Sharp 4. Stuart Cunningham, Jits Rad, Bobby Barring 5. Sharyn & Richard Kelly 6. Lance Diggot, Warren Heath, Adrian Purtell 7. Brent Millar, Errol Munro, Ray Valdeter 8. Graham Doig, Pat Ernst 9. Mark Ryan, Joe Ritson, Martin McDonough 10. Paul Dyer, George Gianoulis

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Year of Mercy Gathering 2016 Staff from as far afield as Mount Isa, Proserpine and Halifax made the journey to the Townsville Entertainment Centre to listen to international speakers at Catholic Education’s Year of Mercy Gathering.

Josephine Carter Photography

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1. Rachel Daffara, Samantha Lancini 2. Jenai Stone, Bree Kleinman 3. Sherry Evans, Kate O’Dwyer 4. Hannah West, Carla Gabiola 5. Elisa Hogue, Josephine Hicky, Kelly Grandon 6. Lyndal Crowd, Sue Barlow 7. Trent Engel, Daniel Grandon, Andrew Grubbs 8. Robyn Favero, Vicky Jago 9. Jackie Crocker, Florinda Battistel 10.

Debbie Hocking, Renee Macala

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Townsville Enterprise Members’ Networking Function

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Newly re-elected Mayor Jenny Hill attended this meet and greet and introduced members to her new team of Townsville City Councillors . The event gave members the opportunity to share knowledge and make valuable business connections in a relaxed setting outside of the usual meeting rooms.

Photography Megan MacKinnon

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1. Kerrie Kent, Christine O’Flynn 2. Tabitha & Paul Venturato 3. Lorraine Marshall, Toni Austin 4. Hannah Wilkinson, Emma Crozier 5. Kimberley Wilkinson, Cassandra Mendo, Melissa Coulter 6. Mark Pearson, Philip Batty 7. Kyle Page, Deanna Smart 8. Laurie Murphy, Kayla Horniblow, Sam Kimlin 9. Gerard Byrne, Kurt Rehbein 10. Sam Girgenti, Girish Menon

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Grill’d Burger for Althea Projects Grill’d Townsville

A generous $5 from every Grill’d burger purchased on Saturday 9 April was donated to Althea Projects. Focused on helping local foster kids, Althea Projects supports Townsville families so children can reach their full potential.

Josephine Carter Photography

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1. Cameron Raolands, Angus Milne 2.

Rodney Holder, Costa Hagiaglou 3. Jacqui & Stephen McDouglall 4. Melissa Capponi, Caitlin Byrne, Zach Byrne 5. Kaitlyn Gilbert, Terina Jepson, Demi Papageorge 6. Keith Church, Katey Ford 7. Daniel & Gary Harris, Teigan Mahony 8. Steven Remmer, Kristie Satchwill 9. Bianca Ellis, Tayla Gray 10. Lexi Gorton, Kim Riskas

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Private Ginger Mick at Gallipoli

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Dancenorth (School of Arts Theatre) Theatre iNQ’s adaptation of the much-loved CJ Dennis poems, ‘The Moods of Ginger Mick’, brought to life all the colourful characters from the poems, including the lovable rogue Ginger.

Josephine Carter Photography

1. Susan Prince, Ray Dickson 2. Rowen Lewellyn, Shaniah Swan 3. Madelyn Northeast, Jacob McCarthy, Steven Howlett 4. Alex Cox, Kiara Clay 5. Daniel Pengelly, Patrick Shelley, Sam Taylor 6.

Melataiah Doherty, Tarita Horope 7. ane Logan, Rachel Stockham 8. Kayleigh Bull, Sean Bateson 9.

Laurence Page, Jamie Hunt 10. Lisanna Kelz, Paula Hacker

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AU T U M N I N S P I R E D WITH OUR LOCAL PRODUCE I N S P I R E D M E N U S , I H AV E C O M B I N E D QUEENSLAND BEEF WITH SOME C L A S S I C AU T U M N V E G E TA B L E S .

E X P E R I E N C E A J O U R N E Y O F F L AV O U R S AND TEXTURES WITH SWEET BABY R O A S T E D B E E T S , S A LT Y O L I V E SOIL AND LIT TLE BURSTS OF B I T T E R - S W E E T P O M E G R A N AT E , C O M B I N E D W I T H T E N D E R E Y E F I L L E T.

BOOK NOW: 07 4721 4900

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1 PA L M E R S T R E E T SOUTH TOWNSVILLE 07 4721 4900 W W W. J A M C O R N E R . C O M . AU

AQUARIUM DINNER

TASTE THE NORTH LAUNCH

JAM will be hosting a

Discover what events planned are

seafood dinner at Reef HQ.

for the October festival.

FRIDAY 13TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH JUNE

$150 PER GUEST

$150 PER GUEST

DUOFood+Drink | Profile

Coffee Buzz A mining engineer by trade, Dan Bigney didn’t have any hospitality experience six months ago… but he didn’t let that stop him opening four stores in under two months.

Writer Kylie Davis. Photographer Josephine Carter.

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A 35-year-old with an adventurous spirit, Dan Bigney has 15 years on the board in the mining industry. Having started his career in Canada, working at a Diamond Project where temperatures dropped below -50 degrees, a move to a warmer climate like Australia was very appealing.

“The opportunity to work and travel in a country with great people and so much to explore was something I couldn’t turn down when I moved here 10 years ago,” Dan says. “I’ve been living in Townsville for about six years now, since I met my wife Amanda who is from Townsville. Working FIFO, most recently

DUOFood+Drink | Profile

in the Pilbara in WA, I’ve had the luxury of some accommodating rosters that have allowed me to enjoy Townsville in my time off.”

The move out of mining was something Dan had been considering for some time. While he wasn’t necessarily looking at hospitality, when Stellarossa came up he was excited by the possibilities.

“I loved Stellarossa from the first sip of its coffee,” Dan says.

“Stellarossa cafes are popular in Brisbane and, apart from stores in Rockhampton and Mackay, they hadn’t

extended North. Knowing that we have a strong coffee culture here in Townsville, it seemed like a perfect fit.”

Dan and his team, chief among whom is his wife Amanda, opened the first Stellarossa at 420 Flinders Street in the city, under the ERGON building, in late September last year. The store’s coffee sales, particularly for the smooth Organico medium-roast blend, were instantly impressive.

“Those first few weeks were overwhelming; we had such a positive response to not only our coffee but also our food offerings and our customer service,” says Dan, who can now make a mean latte.

“To keep the momentum going we opened up at Stockland, outside Woolworths, five weeks later and then a couple of weeks after that at Fairfield Central. At the same time, we also launched another new brand of restaurant for Townsville, Hombre, which is Mexican Street Food, at Fairfield Central.”

Life was and still is busy for hands-on business owner Dan and the team but they love that they’re bringing something new to Townsville.

“I’d be lying if I said the initial talks to the opening of the first store was an easy path,” Dan admits.

“I knew quickly that I was over my head with contracts, agreements, legal documents and negotiations. I hadn’t even opened a shop yet and there were times when I considered whether it was worth it.

“Fortunately there was tremendous help from the franchisors, staff and family and friends who somehow helped to bring everything together. In particular I couldn’t have done this without my wife Amanda. “The energy, time and patience she has given me over the last six months has been nothing short of amazing.

With our first bub on the way – or what I like to joke is our ‘fifth shop’ – there’s a superhuman element she must have, to deal with the stress, long hours, and her own full-time job!”

Stellarossa Fairfield Central (Shop 33) 2/30 Lakeside Drive, Idalia 4778 3829 Hombre Fairfield Central (Shop 35) 2-30 Lakeside Drive, Idalia 4778 3752

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TOWNSVILLE PICNIC BAY SURF LIFESAVING CLUB

KOBE AT THE VILLE Kobe’s delicious menu has been designed to feature premium cuts from Australia’s finest beef brands as well as other contemporary culinary delights such as locally-sourced seafood, pork, lamb, chicken and vegetarian options. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience in modern décor with stunning views to Magnetic Island.

The restaurant features a private dining room, perfect for business dinners or special occasions, seating up to 20 guests, overlooking the built-in wine cellar. Open for dinner 7 nights a week from 6pm.

For more information visit the-ville.com.au, or for bookings call 4722 2222 or email kobe@the-ville.com.au

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Situated on The Strand, this unique waterfront venue enjoys panoramic views of Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay. The versatile venue can be hired for business meetings, corporate workshops, social events and private functions. As one of Townsville’s premier wedding venues, with an indoor outdoor space, it offers couples the perfect venue for your special day. Open to the public for Sunday at the Bay with live music from 2pm Sundays.

80 The Strand, North Ward, Townsville events@tpbslsc.com.au 4724 4211

thies to tryâ&#x20AC;Ś 4 Yummy smoo all of us! for the k id in

420 Flinders Street Licensed Corporate catering Open from 6am

Fairfield Central Licensed Full restaurant menu Open till late

Stockland Traditional espresso bar CafĂŠ menu Open 7 days

DUOFood+Drink

CACTUS JACK’S SALOON

MICHELS Michels restaurant is Townsville’s food destination. Our guests enjoy modern Australian contemporary cuisine, crafted from local produce and seasonal ingredients. Michels can be enjoyed for a quick city lunch, a business dining venue, family dinner or enjoy our degustation experience. Drop by Bar M for a light snack, glass of wine or cocktails – anytime. Michels is a relaxed dining and drinking destination, perfectly situated in the heart of Townsville’s restaurant hub – Palmer Street.

Open Tuesday–Friday for lunch from 11.30 and Tuesday–Saturday for dinner from 5.30pm.

7 Palmer Street South Townsville www.michelsrestaurant.com.au 4724 1460

Family

MOVIE NIGHT

SATURDAY 28 MAY FROM 6.30PM OPEN AIR FREE EVENT!

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The Cactus Saloon has three great levels, all with their own unique bars, sensational food and excitement. With the addition of an authentic smoker oven, Texas BBQ style slow cooked ribs have never been tastier. With our new range of succulent meats we also offer takeaway lunches and late night dining. Experience Townsville’s home of Cocktails, BBQ and Craft beer. Lunch: Tuesday– Sunday Midday–3pm. Dinner: Tuesday–Sunday 5pm–9:30pm. Late Night Menu: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 9:30pm–Midnight.

237 Flinders Street Townsville www.cactussaloon.com.au 4721 1708

ADVERTISE HERE

Call 07 4771 2933 or email advertise@duomagazine.com.au

Y A L P K N I R D EAT PECIAL EVENT S T X E N R O , G EDDING, MEETIN W R U O Y R O F E U EANFRONT VEN C O E L B A T P A D VILLE’S MOST A S N W O T R E V O DISC

LIVE MUSIC!

SUNHDE BAAYY AT T

FROM 2PM

CLUB G IN V A S E IF L F om.au R U .c S c s Y l A s B b p C I t N @ ts PIC TOWNSVILRLTEH WARD 4724 4211 even

D NO N A R T S E H T 0 8

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GRILL’D HEALTHY BURGERS

JAM Winner of Australian Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat Award 2014 and 2015 With seasonally designed menus using the freshest produce from local suppliers, Jam consistently offers unique dining experiences that leave you coming back for more. Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, Matt Merrin and his team deliver modern Australian cuisine that is sure to impress. Jam is also perfect for your next private function or event, with elegant dining locations ‘Loft by Jam’ and ‘Luxe by Jam’.

Open Tuesday–Saturday 7am–late, Sunday 7am–3pm 1 Palmer Street South Townsville www.jamcorner.com.au 4721 4900

Our Mission comes down to 3 words: Burgers made good. We offer 100% grass feed, free range Beef, Chicken, Lamb or Steak with freshly baked bread every day. Come in and try our selection of sides including our Sweet Potato chips. Fully licensed and family friendly. We’re even happy for you to make your own! Dine in or take away. Made with Love. Open Sunday to Thursday 11am–10pm.

Friday and Saturday 11am–late.

3 Palmer Street www.grilld.com.au 4976 9990

I.M.C. STEAKHOUSE

RAMBUTAN Townsville’s newest hotspot Rambutan’s rooftop bar and restaurant features a Southern American inspired BBQ menu with 16-hour slow cooked meats produced by an imported Pit Smoker. Celebrity Head Chef Wylie Dean displays a colourful array of rustic delights set to take your palette on a wild journey. From 12 inch Po’boys to good ol’ fashioned fried chicken enriched with an explosion of flavours guests are spoilt for choice. Having trouble deciding, let our chefs take care of everything with our Chef’s Banquet from 6pm nightly starting at $30 per person (minimum 10 people). Open 7 days 11am–late.

113–119 Flinders Street Townsville www.rambutantownsville.com 4771 6915

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From the pastures of Central Queensland to the lush valleys of Northern Tasmania, the Independent Meat Company (I.M.C) Steakhouse showcases some of the finest produce from farmers around Australia; guaranteeing tender, juicy steaks of the highest quality. The I.M.C.’s 10 select beef cuts showcase that ‘great’ and ‘Australian’ need not be ‘expensive’. The I.M.C. also has a well-stocked wine and craft beer bar and monthly showcase steaks. Bookings welcome.

Dinner Only 7 nights 5pm–late.

17–21 Palmer Street South Townsville 4724 3243

BAR M

AT MICHEL’S RESTAURANT Come and enjoy the best oceanic treasure Michel’s has to offer.

COFFIN BAY OYSTERS PREPARED 6 WAYS $25

ENJOY A TASTING SLATE OF 1/2 DOZEN OYSTERS WITH A GLASS OF JANZ ROSE OR A CORONA

AFTERNOON MOJITOS $10

TUESDAY TO SATURDAY, 5-9PM

7 PALMER STREET SOUTH TOWNSVILLE TEL 4724 1460

MICHELSRESTAURANT.COM.AU

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FUEL CAFÉ

STELLAROSSA Coffee is our Passion. Food is our Love. Customers are our Life! Welcome to Stellarossa, Townsville’s newest café espresso bar. Now open in 3 locations, 420 Flinders Street, Fairfield Central and Stockland. Come and experience the Stellarossa difference today with a full breakfast, lunch, pizza and pasta menu. 420 Flinders St and Fairfield Central are also licensed. Known for our 5 Star Speciality Coffee, you know you need to come in and try it, you will enjoy! Find us on Facebook to keep up to date.

Stellarossa 420 Flinders St, Stellarossa Fairfield Central, Stellarossa Stockland Townsville

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Fuel Café has opened at North Ward Shopping Village. Our award winning chef delivers a sensational menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

There’s a selection of delicious deserts and cakes to have with our renowned Bounce coffee. We also offer takeaway meals. The venue is licenced and offers a reserved area for functions with specialised menus. This would be the perfect place to hold your next private event. Open 7 days.

North Ward Shopping Village www.fuelcoffee.com.au 4772 4545

THE BEST STEAKS FROM CAPE YORK TO CAPE GRIM bamboo_I.M.Co._Steak House Master Logo

Palmer Street, Townsville Call: 47 243 243

Take your pick from Townsville’s home of Cocktails, BBQ & Craft Beer • Texas BBQ style • Succulent slow cooked ribs • Authentic Smokehouse

• Late night dining • Takeaway lunches • Melt in your mouth

www.cactussaloon.com.au

bamboo_CJR3847

237 Flinders Street East, Townsville City | Book now or place your order Call 47 215 705

R E C I P E | B EOne N ’ S Pot M E Favourites AT B I B L E by B YPete B E NEvans O’DONOGHUE DUORecipe

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C.

Duck Vindaloo

You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to know that the list of ingredients for this dish scream good health. Now, a lot of people may be put off by this many ingredients in a recipe, but I get excited about the adventure that is about to happen in my kitchen – and later on my tastebuds. This curry may take a little while to prepare, but if you make a big batch, you will have meals for days to come. Serve with a refreshing cucumber and lettuce salad and some fermented veg.

Serves 4–6 1¼ tablespoons duck fat or other good-quality animal fat, melted 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 6 duck legs (about 1.2 kg) sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 8 red Asian shallots, quartered lengthways 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1½ tablespoons finely grated ginger 3 tomatoes, chopped 1 bay leaf 500 ml (2 cups) Chicken Bone Broth (page 234) 2 bunches of broccolini, roughly chopped into large pieces 1 large handful of baby spinach 6 teaspoon dried chilli flakes (or more if you like it spicy)

2. To make the spice paste, combine all the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and whiz to a fine paste. Heat 1 teaspoon of the fat in a large frying pan over medium–low heat. Add the spice paste and cook, stirring frequently, for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Transfer to a bowl, mix in the vinegar and set aside.

3. Coat the duck legs with the remaining fat and season with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium–high. Working in batches, add the duck, skin-side down, to the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp, then flip over and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer the duck to a plate. Drain most of the fat from the pan, leaving only 2 tablespoons. (i.e. leftover fat can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and used for all kinds of cooking.)

4. Reduce the heat to medium, add the shallot to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic, ginger and tomato and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until the tomato has broken down. Add the spice paste, bay leaf and broth, bring to the boil, then return the duck to the pan.

5. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook in the oven for 1½ hours. Remove the lid, increase the temperature to 180°C and cook for a further 30 minutes. Add the broccolini to the curry 5 minutes before it is ready. Season with salt and pepper, stir in the spinach and chilli and serve.

PRESSURE COOKER Follow steps 2–3 using your pressure cooker. Increase the heat to medium–high and follow step 4, but add only 350 ml of broth rather than 500 ml. Close the lid and lock it, then bring to high pressure and cook over medium heat for 50 minutes. Let the pressure drop naturally before opening the lid.

Add the broccolini and cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Season and stir in the spinach and chilli.

SLOW COOKER Follow steps 2–4, but add only 380 ml of broth rather than 500 ml. Transfer all the ingredients to your slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 10 hours until the duck is tender. Add the broccolini and cook, uncovered, on high for 30 minutes. Season and stir in the spinach and chilli.

Spice Paste 6 long red chillies, deseeded and roughly chopped 1½ teaspoons cumin seeds 1 teaspoon brown or yellow mustard seeds 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds 4 green cardamom pods, bruised 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1½ teaspoons ground turmeric 2 tablespoons tomato paste

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Recipe and images from One Pot Favourites by Pete Evans.

Published by Plum.

DUORecipe One Pot Favourites by Pete Evans

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R E C I P E | B EBusy N ’ S Mum’s M E AT Cookbook B I B L E B Y by B EAnnabel N O ’ D OKarmel NOGHUE DUORecipe

Berry And White Choc Tart

Prep time: 25 minutes, plus chilling Cook time: N/A Makes 6–8 portions Ingredients 125g unsalted butter 250g digestive biscuits 275g full-fat cream cheese 300ml double cream 100g white chocolate 2 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract 300g fresh blueberries 300g fresh raspberries Runny honey, for drizzling Method 1. Start by making the biscuit base. Melt the butter in a saucepan then remove from the heat. Put the biscuits in a plastic food bag, seal the bag, then crush them to fine crumbs with a rolling pin. Transfer the biscuit crumbs to the pan with the melted butter and mix thoroughly. Press the buttery crumbs into the base and slightly up the sides of a 25 cm fluted, loose-bottom tart tin. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, until firm.

2. Melt half the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of gently simmering water (don’t allow the base of the bowl to touch the water), then set aside.

3. Place the cream cheese and double cream in a bowl. Beat with an electric whisk or by hand until the mixture forms thick, soft peaks, then add the melted white chocolate, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

4. Remove the biscuit base from the fridge and spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the base. Smooth the surface, arrange the blueberries and raspberries on top, then decorate the tart with white chocolate shavings (using the remaining white chocolate) and drizzle with honey.

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Recipe and images from Busy Mum’s Cookbook by Annabel Karmel. Published by Ebury, RRP $55.00

DUORecipe Busy Mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cookbook by Annabel Karmel

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DUOInterview

five minutes with:

Connor White

BUTCHER AT WHITES NORTH WARD GROCER

Narelle Quick

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CONSULTANT AT SLR CONSULTING

AKA: Nelle. I’m renowned for: Having a positive attitude and always going above and beyond to assist others. The song that describes me best is: Happy by Pharrell Williams. As a child I always… loved riding horses and playing Polocrosse. If I had a superpower it would it be: To fly so I could travel for free around the world. When I’m alone in my car I think about: Depending on the time of day I’ll be thinking about the to-do list for work or home, and what to cook for dinner. Right now I wish I was… on holidays in Asia because I really enjoy the culture, scenery and culinary delights. My favourite day is: Saturday because it is my day to relax and unwind after a hectic week. One thing I can’t live without is: My partner as he is my best friend, sounding board, and travelling companion. In five years from now I hope I’m… fit and healthy, living

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abroad furthering my career.

Last gift I gave someone was: Homemade chocolate for Easter. Best advice I’ve been given: ‘Don’t be scared to step outside your comfort zone’ and ‘Be true to yourself.’ My biggest regret: Not taking opportunities to step outside of my comfort zone that were offered to me earlier in life. The best day of my life (so far): The day I met my partner Adam. Two celebrities I’d like to dine with: Ross Kemp because he has travelled the world visiting lots of unique and dangerous places.

Writer and TV presenter, Dawn O’Porter because she has had a very interesting life and met a variety of people across all walks of life. The motto I live by: The best things in life, aren’t things.

AKA: CJ (Connor James). I’m renowned for: My home made pies and good looks.

The song that describes me best is: Tough one.. But I’d say Float On by Modest Mouse because of my ‘it could be worse’ outlook on life. As a child I always… loved doing art and craft with my Nan. If I had a superpower it would it be: Teleportation would help me save a few dollars on travelling costs. When I’m alone in my car I think about: What’s for dinner.

My life is very food orientated.

Right now I wish I was… In Canada. I just love everything about the place and I’m dying to get back there. My favourite day is: The same as everybody else’s, FRIDAY! One thing I can’t live without is: My Cocker Spaniel, Bentley. Don’t know what I’d do without him. In five years from now I hope I’m… still alive and well with a wife and some kids. Last gift I gave

someone was: I just bought my Dad the two seasons of Russell Coight’s: All Aussie Adventures.

Classic show. Best advice I’ve been given: ‘Back yourself.’ Andrew Beric. I always have it in the back of my mind when I’m doubting myself and it helps push me over the edge. For better or for worse but at least I had a crack. My biggest regret: Not asking my brother how he was going that day. The best day of my life (so far): 1 November 2015 – complicated story but changed my life for the better. Two celebrities I’d like to dine with: Jake Gyllenhaal and Robert Downey Jr. – my two favourite actors. The motto I live by: Go with the flow, we’ll all float on anyway. I liked it that much I had it tattooed on me.

DUOInterview

We’re blessed with so many talented and interesting people that we introduce you to four local characters each month. If you think someone should be featured just send an email to: editor@duomagazine.com.au

Alan Marlowe

BUSINESS MANAGER AT UMBRELLA STUDIO

Shannon Charles

OWNER/MANAGER OF PIER RESTAURANT AND BAR

AKA: Alan Junior. It’s the name I use to sign artwork I make.

I’m renowned for: A heavy interest in all kinds of creativity.

I enjoy visual art, dance, theatre, music. The song that describes me best is: Buy the Stars by Marina and the Diamonds.

As a child I always… liked to play video games! I was also interested in technology and the natural world – I had ant farms and bug catching kits. If I had a superpower it would it be: Super-Strength is a pretty good one. Never being fatigued would be really handy! When I’m alone in my car I think about: Why Australia hasn’t made more of a move to renewable energy. We have a chance to lead the world on this and I feel let down as a citizen.

I think deeply in the car! I often listen to ABC Radio National.

Right now I wish I was… on holiday overseas: maybe Japan, New Zealand or Europe.

Last gift I gave someone was: It was a ticket to the Titanic musical, flowers and a scratchie to my Grandma for her birthday.

Best advice I’ve been given: I like this quote: ‘Say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.’ The best day of my life (so far): I can’t forget the First Lady Gaga show I went to: The Monster Ball. There were so many creative costumes, people wore whatever they felt like, the show rocked, and it was just such a positive vibe and experience.

Two celebrities I’d like to dine with: I have to say Lady Gaga don’t I? The other... maybe Malcolm Turnbull or Annastacia Palaszczuk, so I can tell them how it is in NQ! I did meet her in her role as the Arts Minister when she was in Townsville for deputations. The motto I live by: Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

AKA: Close friends call me Giraffe or Emu legs. I’m 6’2” and have lovely friends who like to point my height out all the time. I’m renowned for: Having a little too much fun at the party and making creative (and delicious!) cocktails. The song that describes me best is: I have a verse from John Lennon’s Imagine tattooed on my arm. I guess you could say I’m a bit of a dreamer. As a child I always… loved playing in the dirt with my trucks. Mum still says I should have been a boy. If I had a superpower what would it be: The power to take away people’s pain and suffering.

Right now I wish I was… back in bed. We’ve just started doing Sunday breakfast at the Pier and my body hasn’t quite adjusted to the early mornings yet. My favourite day is: Saturday. It’s the busiest day for us at the restaurant and it’s very rewarding at the end of the night

when customers are leaving full of great food and wine with big smiles on their faces! In five years from now I hope I’m… running one of Townsville’s best restaurants! Last gift I gave someone was: Driving lessons for my little brother. Watch out for him on the roads. Scary! Best advice I’ve been given: That would be from my 5’4” mother: “Stand up straight and be proud of your height.” The best day of my life (so far): 1 December 2015, when I was handed the keys to the Pier! The motto I live by: We were brought up surrounded by the Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. The whole poem is beautiful and something to live by but there is one phrase in particular I’d say is my motto; “You are a child of the Universe, No less than the trees and the stars, You have a right to be here. Whether or not it is clear to you, No doubt the Universe is unfolding as it should.”

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(Continued from Page 66) Courtney: And nobody probably cared, nobody even would have given him a second glance or anything, and I think that’s the great thing, society is becoming more accepting of it. You know you can now take your child with you to University. Employers are more willing to let you go, take half an hour out of your day to pick your kids up from school and then drop them home. If that is going to make you perform better in the workplace and it’s going to make you happier as a person I think that employer’s are more willing to do that.

If picking your son up from school and taking them to soccer training is going to make you perform better at your job and you’re not going to be sitting there pissed off at your employer because they won’t let you leave, then everyone wins. That’s what people need to become more accepting of, I believe.

Jess: I think with time, more employers are going to be more flexible, they’re going to have to become more flexible because there’s always talk about increasing women in the workforce and that’s only going to happen if employers are flexible.

And you do hear more and more stories of employers doing that. It’s going to have to be like that eventually.

Kayla: Definitely, and with technology advancements there is going to be opportunities depending on your field of work and depending on your employer.

But with technology, you can work at home, you can work interstate or you could work for a company that’s in Canada, depending on what your field is. With that, will come more relaxation around the typical nine to five working hours and you know what, I can’t wait for that.

Courtney: That doesn’t really happen at the moment does it? I don’t know many people who work less than 38 hours a week in this day and age. And because when you’re our age as well you kind of want to make a good name for yourself. I want to stay later, I want to work harder, I want to put my hand up for everything that someone asks me to do because it’s going to further my career, and further my

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learning and make me a better person.

Kayla: I do think people will continue to work those sorts of hours. It just may not be at a desk, in front of the work computer, it’s going to be a little bit more…

Courtney: Digital.

Kayla: Yes, and it may allow you to perhaps sit on the Strand or something, depending again on the type of work you do. You’re obviously not going to be able to perform surgery down on the Strand.

Jess: I think technology as well has had its downsides already, we’ve already seen it. Everyone is accessible 24/7 and you read all the time about how no one can switch off anymore, I suppose it’s about the balance.

Courtney: I think it’s comes down to the fact that people just want answers and information so fast these days. We want to know things faster and quicker. It’s stressful. And the digital world allows us to be contactable on so many different devices. I have a desktop computer, a MacBook laptop, two iPads, two iPhones, I literally cannot keep track of all of my technology. Someone will be calling my personal phone while my work phone’s ringing and it’s stressful. You literally cannot switch off.

Kayla: The mobility aspect of technology is amazing, but sometimes I just wish someone would write me a letter and I’ll reply in 7 days. Lets not do the emails all the time. I’d be happy then, but those days are gone. My mum uses the computer now, and she’ll hate me for saying it, but her era didn’t grow up with all this technology. So everything that I show her, she writes down the exact procedure. And to me I think my goodness, why are you doing this? But I grew up with a computer, I grew up with computer labs so it’s crazy to think not everyone understands the concept of that. Like my grandma doesn’t understand the concept of the Internet.

Jess: My grandma’s in her mid to late 70’s and she has a more recent iPhone than my cousins and I do. She definitely doesn’t have Facebook, but she’s on the Internet, she emails, it’s great.

Kayla: I think for our generation it would be silly not to keep up all the time because we know how fast technology has moved.

From when I was in primary school to what we have now. You’d be stupid not to keep up with technology. I must admit, I get frustrated with technology. As soon as it doesn’t work the first time, I call my husband and ask him to sort it out. I’m not patient at all.

Casey: It’s too much for the younger generation now. They don’t even learn how to speak to one another. And we do it too, if you go out for coffee and you’re waiting for your friends, the first thing you do is pick up your phone, and I had to stop doing it because I hate it. I hate sitting there while I’m waiting for someone and thinking that I have to look like I’m busy so I’m not alone. I can just sit there and take in my surroundings and watch people. It’s such a conscious thing that I now don’t do it. I don’t need my phone, I don’t need to be checking Facebook, I don’t need to be checking Instagram.

Kayla: My mum will say social media is the reason for increased depression and anxiety. And she truly believes that because she sees people who don’t put real stuff on there, which is true. And I’ve shown her, my mum’s not on Facebook.

I’d like to start her a Facebook; I think it would be great. It’s easy to make out your life is perfect as a picture because no one knows what’s behind that.

Kayla: When you were at school, would you let your parents be your friends on Facebook?

Courtney: I think it depends. I have a really close relationship with all of my family so there’s nothing I would post on there that I wouldn’t want them to see.

You would never show that much of your private life on social media because how could you? How could you let somebody into your life like that and let them see all of your insecurities and weaknesses? We just don’t do that, and there’s no reason for us to do it either.

Casey: People judge.

Hayley: Yes, you portray yourself to be better.

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Kayla: And everyone gets so absorbed in that.

Ellie: I was listening to a Triple J’s Hack about this one time and one of the girls had a million followers on a fitness website I think? I think people forget that those people are real. Stars are real, pop singers are real, and they have bad days too. I know one of my friends has a lot of followers and people ask me questions about her and I just think, she’s still a person, she’s still a human being.

Kayla: Does that scare you though? That is the expectation now?

Casey: I think that’s what is so difficult, especially from a University point of view. When I was in my previous degree, I worked close to a 40-hour week while studying full time. If I tried to do that now doing medicine, I can’t do it. In the same sense I probably have more expenses now, living away from home. I don’t live with my parents, I live in an apartment, I pay for my own car and I pay for everything.

And yet, you’ve still got people whose parents do pay their way. And that’s good on them but I have to stand on my own two feet and I want to do that, but it’s not easy. I don’t think that society sets people up for that. It doesn’t say to you, “you know what, you actually have to work for this. You have to pay for this; you have to pay to live somewhere. You have to pay for a car; you have to pay for insurance.”

I think that other stuff has to fall away sometimes.

And setting kids up like that now where they go “Oh, Mum and Dad will pay for everything”, how about the time when they turn around and go, you know what, you’re on your own two feet now.

Courtney: I think it’s about learning the value of the dollar too and I definitely had to learn it the hard way. I was similar to Casey, I moved to Brisbane when I was 18. I finished school, moved straight to Brisbane to do University, and I didn’t go to college or anything, I went straight into renting an apartment. I worked almost full time hours, 35 hours a week in retail and I also went to Uni full time. I maintained a relationship with my boyfriend, kept up an apartment. Paid for rent, fuel, groceries,

electricity, all of those sorts of things. And let me tell you it makes you grow up really fast.

seen them do it first.

Casey: I think that people don’t realise that now. I don’t regret any of that, I’m grateful my parents made me stand on my own two feet. And my parents are there to support me if I needed them to but you shouldn’t have to rely on that, I’m 24 years old, I shouldn’t have my parents paying my way.

Hayley: Oh yes, I call them every day.

When I first started I would call Mum every day. Ask her questions like “What is an ABN?”

Courtney: So how do you compare to your parents now? Or in particular your mother? What do you think your parent’s expectations are of you? Personally, I can sit here now almost at 24 and say I think my parents would be really proud of me.

I learnt the value of the dollar, I learnt how to struggle and eat tuna and rice for weeks on end because I really couldn’t afford anything. But I look back on those times now fondly because they kept me grounded and I had to deal with the fact that I couldn’t have everything, I couldn’t go and buy all the stuff that I wanted. I had a bed to sleep in, I had a beautiful apartment in South Bank, it was just really empty. The plus side is there wasn’t really anything to clean!

Hayley: I think my mother would be proud of me. My parents own cattle stations and businesses as well and I think growing up on the farm I didn’t go in to civilisation until I was in grade eight.

And Mum, she got me there, I could have been really weird! So I went from being by myself to being with 30 other girls at once, so that was really fun. I think being pulled in and out of those environments by my parents, that was really good for me, because I wouldn’t know how to talk to people, so I thank them for putting me in those situations. And I think being at boarding school makes you mature very quickly because you just have to. And I think that was the reason behind that.

But at the end of the day I think they would be proud of me also going into a business, owning my own business. I’ve always wanted to do that because it looked amazing on the outside when they did it, but obviously its not that easy. I don’t think I could have done that if I had not

Kayla: And do they mentor you through your business?

Courtney: I didn’t even know what my tax file number was.

Hayley: I still call them and say “What’s my tax file number?” Mum says, “Oh my God, I’ve been telling you this for seven years – write it down!” You don’t get taught that stuff at school, that’s the stuff you actually need to know!

Courtney: The things the school should teach you but doesn’t! Do you need to pay tax? Should you claim the tax-free threshold? When I moved to Brisbane I worked in retail and when I was filling in the form, I had to call my mum and ask her what my Tax File Number was and whether I should claim the tax free threshold. I had no idea.

Kayla: My parents have taught me a lot.

I still rely on them and Scott’s parents especially for the business. If my computer system went down and I had to reconcile the BAS, I don’t know what I would do.

Casey: I was talking to the President of the Townsville Picnic Bay Surf Life Saving Club recently. I’d just gone away to a State life saving camp and I was the coordinator, and I loved it; that was how I found my niche again. I went away on this camp and we were talking about organising a camp for our kids (in Townsville). And we thought, why don’t we take it away from Life Saving? Some of these kids don’t even know life skills. Let’s make them think about if you meet someone how you are perceived. The first five minutes when you meet someone, it’s an immediate impression. You may not ever get a chance to change that. And I think there are so many people who don’t realise that. I only learnt that from going away to a leadership camp a year ago. Sometimes, no matter how bad you feel, you really just have to put it on. If you’ve never met someone and you’re feeling so down in your own self, you just have to think, “You know what?

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I’m never going to meet this person again for the first time.” You put a smile on your face.

Hayley: I think that’s unfair, they have all struggled the same amount so I don’t see why gender should have to come in to it.

Hayley: And people do judge you straight off the bat. Like they think I’m going to watch her for a little bit and see how she acts and if you do something stupid they pin it to you forever.

Courtney: It’s the same with the gender pay gap as well. Women still don’t earn as much as men for being just as qualified, just as capable to do the job. Why in 2016 does that still exist? Why do we still not have equality between the sexes when it comes to wages? Why does a woman engineer get hired over their male counterpart to meet a quota? Why don’t they get the same? Why doesn’t the pay reflect that? Why do we still have those issues in 2016?

Courtney: I personally never ever want to be in a position where I meet a new group of people and I don’t know what they’re talking about and I can’t contribute to the conversation. I want to be educated and watch the news and know what I’m talking about because I never want to be in a situation where somebody goes, “Hey, what do you think of the American Presidential Debate?” and I don’t know how to answer that question. So it’s sometimes fake it till you make it.

Jess: I still think that most industries are male dominated. But, I don’t know, I think that women should be there on their ability and merit. Rather than just being there because you’re a female.

Kayla: Or because you’ve got to make the quota.

Jess: Absolutely, I hate quotas with a passion and I think women should be there because they are the best person for the job, because they deserve it and they have merit.

Courtney: Someone only just told me some facts about engineering as an industry recently. She said if you’re an engineer and you’re going for a role at a company and you’re a woman and you’re one person and there are six other guys waiting, they’re always going to hire you, no matter how qualified you are, how good you are. You might be the best, you might not even be the best but they’re always going to hire you because you’re a woman and they need to meet a male to female ratio. So, their company might need to be 40% women and 60% men and they’re going to hire you just to meet that ratio. Not whether you’re good enough or qualified enough, you may not be good enough, you might be over qualified, but they’re going to hire you over those six guys in the waiting room purely because you’re a woman.

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Casey: It definitely depends on what discipline you’re in and where you’re working. I think now when you look at medicine, there’s more females than males in our cohort. It’s changing.

Ellie: Do you think that’s because women are more nurturing?

Casey: I don’t think so much in that regard, I just think that there’s equality in medical schools but then you put them into different disciplines and everyone goes “oh the disciplines are all wrong.” The disciplines are wrong because everyone is interested in different things. It’s not going to change that. If you want to be an orthopaedic surgeon, you have to be strong. Sorry, my build of a person is not going to be able to do that. You have to break people’s bones. You have to be a strong build. People are interested in different things. Look at Townsville; it’s pretty equal in regards to the obstetrics and gynaecology surgeons that are in Townsville, they’re very equal, male and female.

Ellie: I heard, I can’t remember who it was, it was someone high up in the tennis industry, I don’t know if you guys heard this, but he said that all women tennis players should look up to Nadal and Federer for setting standards in the industry and Serena Williams came back and said “That’s ridiculous, I can’t believe you can say that in this day and age.” And it all really focused on prize money, which was much higher for men than women.

Casey: In the same sense when you look at the military, my sister is in the military

and she’s a medic. She finished all her training and she graduated with more females than males. But you look at the military in a difference sense with regards to the fact that they have now put the first all female infantry line through. And you know what, you look at it through the perspective of going to war and it doesn’t match up! You are putting people in danger, because a males automatic instinct is to protect the female. So if there’s a male and a male next to one another and something is coming at one of them, they’re going to get out of the way and leave their mate there and hope they leave as well. On the opposite side, if it’s a female there, they’re going to try and save the female and then they both might die. There are certain areas where gender comes in to it. Women can’t be deep-sea divers, anatomically wise they just can’t do it, it’s dangerous. There is a big difference between females lung capacity and male lung capacity.

Kayla: And do you think sometimes by trying to make this equal balance between the sexes that they can take it too far?

Casey: Absolutely I think they take it too far. And in the same sense we turn around as females and say we want chivalry and we want romance. How are we supposed to say that? When on one hand, we want to be independent and we don’t need a guy to open the door. You can’t have both.

Courtney: I think romance is one thing and chivalry is another. We have a very feminist point of view these days. I don’t need a guy to open the door for me on the car, I’m perfectly capable. I’m not going to say no, I think it’s a lovely gesture, but at the end of the day I could open the door myself. I’m happy for him to pick me up, drive me to the dinner, all that sort of stuff. That’s the romance part to me. I do think that yes, I think I’m a feminist, but I’m not banging down the door saying that everybody should be exactly be the same, because reality is, we’re not.

Casey: I believe in equal opportunity and I think now the way they push feminism has gone too far. They push it to the fact that they want females to have an over advantage over males, and I think that’s

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not equality.

Jess: That’s the best way I’ve ever heard that put. Sometimes I hear people that I’m close to say “I’m a feminist”, and that’s great, you’re allowed to have your views, but I wouldn’t consider myself a feminist because I think we are different in our ways, men and women are different and we need each other. Men are going to exceed in some things, women are going to succeed in other things. The pay gap is only going to – I mean this is my personal view – I think the pay gap is only going to be addressed with more women in the workplace. I think with more women in the workplace, I go back to my earlier point; which is that’s going to come back to more flexible childcare.

Courtney: But also not looking at a woman who has a child who is working nine to five and looking down on her either.

Jess: I think some people might not agree there is balance and say that you can’t have it all, and that’s fine, that’s what they see, that’s their experience. But I think I’m lucky to have so many amazing female mentors in my life, professionally and personally. I think I can do it, I think it is doable. It’s not easy, but it’s doable.

Kayla: Obviously in their 30’s and 40’s women are having children, but in my parents era it was your early 20’s. So I think people are having kids later and maybe they are travelling more and experiencing more. That’s something I’m grateful for, my husband I have been able to travel, and I’d like to travel a lot more.

And we’ve been able to have our own house and set ourselves up financially so when we do have kids we aren’t unhappy with that situation. If it was the other way round and we had a child when I was my early 20’s that would be ok too, but I am glad that it’s going to be later on in my life.

Jess: I spoke to a couple of girlfriends about this and we just got chatting about a couple of issues and one of the things we discussed was there are times, like this, when everyone is talking and it’s a great feeling, but then there’s also a downside to females as well, where I think females do tend to tear other females down. And I really do look forward to the time where I have a daughter of my own, or my son was to marry a female, that there isn’t a time where women just tear each other down.

I think there has to be far more support.

In a personal, professional and every other sense. I’m lucky, I’ve had amazing girlfriends, had amazing mentors.

Casey: It definitely takes a certain type of person and also your motivation as to why you do something is a huge thing. Intrinsic motivation to want to do something, to want to study, to want to have a career and want to have kids. You can do all of those things, there’s always ways to do it, and you have to want it and you have to want to do it well. Otherwise everything falls by the wayside.

Courtney: But that problem does exist.

Jess: And I think that if you only want to have kids, or you only want to have a career, then that is awesome too.

Courtney: I think drawing inspiration from the people closest to you, whether that is your mum or your sisters or your best friend, women in particular. That’s so important because they’re the people who have already shaped who you are and are going to continue to shape who you become in the future.

Courtney: Or if you’re a woman who’s 35 and then people say to you “Do you have any kids” and when you say no, they say “Oh, well why not? Why wouldn’t you have kids?” It’s not for everybody and you should respect that decision too.

Jess: Society is becoming far more understanding and I think we have come a long way but there’s still some way to go.

Kayla: It exists, yes. They say that women dress up for other women, put make-up on for other women, not for men. I have an amazing close group of friends and females within my family and also at work, they’re all amazing so I’ve been really lucky that I haven’t been the subject of bullying or trolling or whatever that sort of thing is called.

turn round and go, “you’re not all right”, and she’s the only person to know that I’m not all right. I know I’m not fine, she knows I’m not fine. She can tell. And then it’s one thing said and suddenly you’re in tears, sort of thing. I’ve got my sister around me and she’s a beautiful person.

I saw her change from someone who was bullied at school and I had no clue. And as her sister that’s heartbreaking, that I stood there and watched that happen and I had no idea what was going on. But now she’s blossomed into this amazing person in the Army. And I don’t just have female role models, I’ve got male role models. My dad is one person I can always turn to. He’s a very strong person and anything that he does, he’s very true to himself and isn’t going to change the way he is. And my brother is exactly the same. I like to take different things from different people. My friend at Uni, she’s so compassionate, such a lovely person; she’s got the time of day for everyone. I wish I had the time of day for everyone like she does. I think you can gain so much inspiration from everyone.

Hayley: I think, back to a business perspective, even one of my best friends owns a clothing boutique in Townsville and we’re direct competitors. But she is one of my best friends and I only met her last year when I opened but she’s become one of my best friends. We email each other with clothes that are coming out, and ask each other “Do you like this, do you think this will sell?” We support each other 150%. I think that’s really important, especially in a small town, people are really quick to tear each other down. I don’t care if she’s a competitor to me. We both want each other to do really well and it shouldn’t matter if we’re direct competitors or not. DUO

Casey: I think it really depends on what you’ve been involved in in your lifetime.

My mum is probably one of my really good friends and she’s the first person to

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Family Is Everything Matriarch Betty Archer, who is 91 years young, is a mother of nine, grandmother of 23, and great grandmother of 32!

BETTY Archer, who has lived her entire life in Hyde Park, may look mild but don’t let that fool you. Her genteel appearance belies her love of fun and she frequently surprises everyone with her cheeky sense of humour.

“At 85 Mum and I were involved in a boating mishap off Bowen,” recalls Betty’s 59-year-old daughter Vivienne.

“We were fishing when a freak wave capsized the boat and we had to swim to shore. It made the front page of the local paper and earned us the nicknames of Captain Pugwash and her Offsider.”

Betty and her family recently travelled to Woollongong to celebrate the 50th birthday of the baby of the family – Yvonne Winning (nee Archer).

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“This was a very special event for me – it was like looking over the story of my life,” Betty says.

“Having had my beautiful baby girl at the age of 41, I wished only that I would live long enough to see her grow up. The fact that I’ve now celebrated her 50th birthday is absolutely incredible to me.

“The presence of my other eight children, in joint celebration, is even more amazing. Their father Bill, who is no longer with us, would’ve been equally proud of the fact that each one of our large family has matured into loving and successful husbands, wives and citizens.

I feel that together, we wrote the story, we produced it, directed it and now we have won the Oscar!”

Betty enjoyed a successful career as one of the founding staff members of Townsville’s TAB. Back then, before automation, it was a fast, high-pressure job but Betty’s calm and competent manner quickly elevated her to District Centre Supervisor. While she was passionate about her job, Betty will always consider her family to be her ‘greatest work’.

“The most important thing in my life is, and has always has been, my family,” Betty says.

“My best advice to my children is: you can’t go back to yesterday to make a better start, but you can start tomorrow to make a better finish.”

87% OF WOMEN FEEL MISUNDERSTOOD

BY THE CAR INDUSTRY IT’S TIME TO SPARK CHANGE Many women feel misunderstood by the auto industry, so it’s time for change. With it’s sleek design, class-leading performance and amazing technology, New Holden Spark is not just defying small car expectations - it’s redefining them.

Tell us what you would change about the car industry for your chance to

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87% OF WOMEN FEEL MISUNDERSTOOD

BY THE CAR INDUSTRY Tell us what you would change about the car industry for your chance to WIN a $500 voucher from Tropical North Day Spa

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