Airnorth April/May 2017

Apr/May 2017

EXPAND your HORIZONS Katherine is as special for its characters as it is for spellbinding outback landscapes

PEARL OF THE NORTH How Marilynne Paspaley brought polo to Broome’s Cable Beach SPIRIT OF SERENITY Take a time out in Dili, Timor-Leste LITTLE MISS HIGGINS The songstress is all grown up A TAIL OF TWO FISH FARMS Aquaculture is making a splash YOUR BEST INTEREST Dodge dodgy investment fund fees OZ ROAD TRIP Best cars for every journey

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Pructon is part of the Pacific Construction Group

Brisbane Darwin Mount Isa Roma Nhulunbuy Newcastle

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Dili, Timor-Leste Milingimbi Elcho Island

Maningrida

Gove Truscott

Wadeye

Groote Eylandt Katherine

Kununurra McArthur River

Broome The Granites

Tennant Creek

Cairns

Townsville

Alice Springs

Toowoomba

Perth

Melbourne

Welcome aboard!

This month’s issue takes you coast to coast, showcasing some of the upcoming first-class events.

The Airnorth Cable Beach Polo tournament will be hosted in Broome in May and is possibly the most remote beach polo competition in the world. If you haven’t experienced this fantastic event, I highly recommend putting it on your calendar this year. It is a weekend packed with great entertainment and some of the most skilled horsemanship to be seen on the west coast.

Also in May, Kununurra welcomes visitors to the delights of the Ord Valley Muster. In its seventeenth year, this 10-day festival features around 30 events that showcase the Kimberley region, from celebrity chefs to stand-up comics, and concludes with a live concert under the stars at the Kimberley Moon Experience on the banks of the Ord River.

Heading east, Townsville turns up the volume with an array of events, cementing its position as the entertainment hub of North Queensland. Live music fans are spoilt for choice; get your groove on at Groovin The Moo or enjoy the refined sounds of the Australian Festival

of Chamber Music. Whatever your taste, Townsville has something to suit.

Heading south? Join Melbourne audiences at the International Comedy Festival. With a diverse lineup of Australian stars, talented newcomers and international performers, it has all your comedy bases covered.

Excitingly, we will be returning to Perth in 2017, with a seasonal Friday/Saturday service from Darwin and Kununurra commencing in June. Travellers will be able to take advantage of arriving in Perth in the early evening and having a full weekend of footy, culture or shopping.

Top End travellers will also have more options for tropical getaways when we launch our dry-season services between Darwin, Gove and Cairns. Our new services, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays commencing in June, will make planning short breaks more convenient.

Now sit back, relax with our inflight service and enjoy your journey with Airnorth.

Daniel Bowden Chief Executive Officer

Airnorth reservations: 1800 627 474 or airnorth.com.au

1

Tennis Star Alicia Molik

93 Konkerberry Drive PO Box 20 Kununurra, Western Australia, 6743 Phone: +61 (08) 9169 1133 Fax: +61 (08) 9168 1188 Freecall: 1800 852 144 (within Australia) Email: info@kimberleyfinediamonds.com.au www. kimberleyfinediamonds.com.au

contents

08 Airnorth News 1 6 Horsing Around

Katherine offers trueblue Outback adventure

2 2 Pearl of the North

Marilynne Paspaley shares her passion for creativity

2 6 Spirit of Serenity

16

Uncover hidden jewels in tropical Timor-Leste

LIFESTYLE 01 ENTERTAINMENT 03 WHAT'S ON 04 CULTURE CLUB 11 MUST PACK 13 EUROPEAN TOAST TEST A backpacker's guide to tipples 16 AUTO REVIEW A car for every Oz road trip

DESTINATION 20

JOURNEY TO VITALITY Discover the 'wellness destination retreat' and get yourself a tune-up in paradise

28 DOWN TO EARTH Missy Higgins talks being a Mum, connecting with fans and her love for the Outback 35 DREAMTIME ODYSSEY Delve into a precious ancient culture with these six amazing Indigenous travel experiences

BUSINESS 45 A TAIL OF TWO FISHERIES Aquaculture – fish farming – to save our ocean fish stocks 50 COTTONING ON Cotton farming is going gangbusters in the NSW MIA 58 YOUR BEST INTEREST Dodge hidden fees and retire with an extra $250,000

35

61 LEGISLATIVE MINEFIELD How mining companies manage stringent regulation 71 EDUCATION SPECIAL Top boarding schools and unis

3

Get in ! touch EDITOR Annabelle Warwick annabelle.warwick@edge.agency ART DIRECTOR Guy Pendlebury SUB-EDITORS Merran White, Jiyan Dessens PRODUCTION MANAGER Brian Ventour CONTRIBUTORS Ben Smithurst, Kerrie Davies, Danielle Chenery, Sarah Ison, Michelle Hespe, Rowan Crosby, Darren Baguley, Jiyan Dessens, Melissa Rimac, Benjamin Mack PRINTER SOS Print & Media ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Scott Hunt scott.hunt@edge.agency NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Peter Anderson peter.anderson@edge.agency WA, SA and NT SALES REP Helen Glasson, Hogan Media Phone: 08 9381 3991 helen@hoganmedia.com.au MANAGING PARTNERS Fergus Stoddart, Richard Parker Read and share Outthere online at issuu.com/edgeinflight

Outthere is published by Edge Level 4, 10–14 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Phone: +61 2 8962 2600 edgecustom.com.au Outthere is published by Business Essentials (Australasia) Pty Limited (ABN 22 062 493 869), trading as Edge, under license to MGI Publishing Pty Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of the Publisher. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Outthere cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will not be returned. Some images used in Outthere are from Thinkstock and Getty Images.

Editor's letter

E

ver been to a health retreat? Maybe you reckon you’re 'not the type'.

Well answer me this: If you had a treasured piece of equipment – I’m talking a vehicle with, say, a wobbly wheel, an overheated engine, failing brakes and a few dents and rust spots – you’d put it in the shop for a tune-up, right? No, you can’t trade this one in; it’s a vintage classic, one of a kind.

Likewise, your body probably deserves a bit of TLC for its years of loyal service.

Retreats come in all shapes and sizes; you could get ripped at a Muay Thai training camp or do hours and hours of yoga at a Zen retreat; enjoy the sound of silence at a 10day Vipassana meditation retreat or head to an Indian ashram and get all Eat, Pray, Love.

But in my opinion, there’s no call for extremes – going cold turkey on alcohol,

sugar, refined carbs and coffee (even for a few days) is challenging enough! Personally, I prefer the health-retreat-disguised-as-ecoresort in a beautiful location, where I'll be handled with kid gloves.

My top picks are Golden Door in the Hunter Valley, Tao Garden in Thailand, Barberyn Reef Resort in Sri Lanka, and Fivelements in Ubud, Bali. At these spots, when you’re not lying by the pool in a detoxifying daze, you’re living clean and green as professional healers get to work on restoring your sparkle. Get ready to be one shiny new machine (story on page 20).

See you Outthere!

Anna Warwick, Editor

5

EMBRAER E170 Engines Two jet Wingspan 26m Length 29.9m Height 9.95m Maximum take-off weight 37,200kg Maximum cruise altitude 41,000ft/12,535m Maximum cruise speed 450kns/820km/h Passenger seats 76 Crew 2 pilots, 2 cabin attendants Passenger facilities 2 galleys, 2 lavatories, pressurised and air conditioned

EMBRAER E120 BRASILIA Engines Two turboprop Wingspan 19.78m Length 20.0m Height 6.35m Maximum take-off weight 11,990kg Maximum cruise altitude 32,000ft/9,754m Maximum cruise speed 300kns/555km/h Passenger seats 30 Crew 2 pilots, 1 cabin attendant Passenger facilities Lavatory, cabin ground heating/cooling system

METROLINER 23 Engines Two turboprop Wingspan 17.70m Length 18.10m Height 5.10m Maximum take-off weight 7,485kg Maximum cruise altitude 25,000ft/7,620m Maximum cruise speed 265kns/490km/h Passenger seats 19 Crew 2 pilots

6

safety/info

Your safety and comfort are our priority BELOW ARE SOME GUIDELINES TO ENSURE YOUR FLIGHT WITH US IS MORE ENJOYABLE

ON TIME EVERY TIME To assist in maintaining on-time departures, check-in time is 45 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 90 minutes prior to departure for international flights. Airnorth check-in counters close 30 minutes prior to domestic scheduled departures and 45 minutes prior to international scheduled departures.

FREQUENT FLYERS Airnorth is a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. Members can earn and redeem their Frequent Flyer points on selected Airnorth scheduled services.

FLYING WITH CHILDREN Infant safety belts are available on Airnorth aircraft and are distributed prior to take-off.

CHILDREN FLYING ALONE If you have children between the ages of five and 11 (inclusive) travelling alone, we ensure they enjoy the attention of our staff on the ground and in flight.

AIRNORTH SERVICES On our services, you can expect a snack accompanied by a selection of tea and coffee or cold refreshments. On selected afternoon services, alcoholic beverages are also available.

Refer to airnorth.com.au for more details.

SAFETY BRIEFING

SMOKING

Please listen carefully to the Safety Briefing and take the time to read through the Safety On Board card prior to take-off. This will help you familiarise yourself with the emergency exits, brace position and the location of your life jacket.

Government regulations strictly prohibit smoking on all domestic flights. Special smoke detectors have been fitted to the toilets on board all of our aircraft. Smoking is also prohibited on the tarmac and throughout airport terminal buildings.

SEATBELTS

DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT)

Seatbelts must be fastened firmly for take-off, landing and while the seatbelt sign is illuminated. We recommend that your seatbelt be fastened at all times while you are seated in case of unexpected turbulence.

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE If you have carry-on luggage, please stow it in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you. Hand luggage that is not correctly stowed may cause injury in the event of unexpected turbulence.

TRAY TABLES/ SEAT BACKS Please ensure that your tray table and your seat back are in their upright positions for take-off and landing.

It has been reported that some airline passengers have developed clots in deep blood vessels, often in the lower legs, as a result of sitting for extended periods without exercise or movement.

This condition is known medically as deep vein thrombosis or DVT. If bloodclot fragments break off and lodge in other areas of the body, such as the lungs, they may cause a potentially fatal pulmonary thrombosis when the person starts walking after being immobile for a lengthy period of time.

Risk factors for DVT include varicose veins, recent surgery or injury to the lower legs, malignant diseases, past history of DVT, obesity, pregnancy and recent childbirth. Anyone with any of these risk factors is advised to consult a medical practitioner prior to flying to find out how to minimise the risk of DVT. During the flight, we recommend that you take the following precautions: • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and minimise your intake of alcohol. • Exercise on board the aircraft by moving and stretching your toes, rotating your ankles, raising and lowering each leg and massaging your calves gently. In addition, we suggest that you avoid crossing your legs during the flight.

SPECIAL NEEDS Passengers with special needs and/or disabilities, please contact our Reservations Department.

7

airnorthnews

BACK TO PERTH IN 2017 Seasonal Perth services from Darwin and Kununurra

Events

19–28

Upcoming

Airnorth returns to Perth with a seasonal Friday and Saturday service.

Commencing Friday June 23, 2017, travellers from Darwin and Kununurra will be able to take advantage of a late Friday afternoon departure to arrive in Perth in the early evening for a full weekend of footy or shopping, or to enjoy Perth’s spectacular new Elizabeth Quay precinct.

For those wanting to head north to the Kimberley and Top End, a Saturday morning service will depart Perth at 8:15am.

May

May 19-28 in Kununurra Ord Valley Muster May 20 in Darwin BASSINTHEGRASS May 20-21 in Broome Cable Beach Polo May 25-28 in Cairns Great Barrier Reef Masters Games

June June 2-11 in Melbourne International Jazz Festival Perth sunrise.

ADDITIONAL WEEKEND SERVICES NEW dry season weekend services linking Darwin, Gove and Cairns Top End travellers will have more options for tropical getaways when we launch our conveniently timed dry season services between Darwin, Gove and Cairns.

Whether you wish to explore Kakadu, East Arnhem Land or the Daintree, Airnorth’s new services on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between June and October will make planning a short break (or a long one) so much easier. New services commence Friday June 23, 2017 and can be booked now.

June 10 in Townsville Lee Kernaghan – Back From The Bush 25th Anniversary Tour June 11 in Cairns Iron Man Challenge June 16-18 in Darwin V8 Supercars Triple Crown June 17 in Townsville Roy Orbison Reborn

July July 7-9 in Townsville V8 Supercars 400 July 22 in Townsville North Queensland Toyota Cowboys vs New Zealand Warriors July 23 in Townsville The Paluma Push

8

Darwin at dusk.

Image: Killarney by Jane Hodges

airnorthnews

A FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE to

TOOWOOMBA

From exploring gracious gardens to touring Australia’s largest outdoor street-art gallery, there’s so much to see and do in and around Toowoomba.

Travel with our handy first-timer’s guide and you won’t miss a thing!

Words: Jane Hodges

Queens Park.

1

Get your bearings at Picnic Point Toowoomba sits high atop the Great Dividing Range, and there’s no better spot from which to appreciate the views than Picnic Point. Pack an acutal picnic, or book in for lunch at the Picnic Point Restaurant overlooking Tabletop Mountain and the Great Divide. There’s plenty of parkland for the kids and challenging bush walks for the energetic, but the view is so arresting and the air so fresh, you might have trouble moving off the picnic rug.

164 Tourist Road, Toowoomba

picnic-point.com.au

2

Purchase some local produce at My Local Feast Farmers’ Market Every Thursday from 3-7pm on the lawn flanking the Empire Theatre, a happy group of farmers and local producers gathers for My Local Feast Farmers’ Market. They offer free samples and sales of whatever is in season from the surrounding fertile farmlands – crunchy apples from Stanthorpe, avocados and rhubarb from Highfields, honey from local hives, potatoes from the Lockyer Valley – whatever is fresh and available.

The Empire Theatre, Neil Street, Toowoomba

mylocalfeastfarmersmarkets.com.au

3

Go green Toowoomba is loved and lauded as ‘the Garden City’, so don’t leave town before sinking your feet into the thick green grass at Queens Park (corner of Lindsay and Margaret Streets), strolling through the fragrant rose garden at Laurel Bank Park (Hill Street) or finding inner peace at the tranquil Ju Raku En Japanese Garden (Regent Street) at the University of Southern Queensland.

Sunflower field, Felton.

4

Discover Walton Stores Tucked down a narrow lane off Ruthven Street you’ll find the newest foodie destination in town. Walton Stores is home to dangerously good burgers at Harry Who, modern Asian street food at Junk, finger-lickin’ good chicken at 2Birds, dreamy ice-cream at Nitrogenie and wholesome vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and organic fare at Full of Life Organics.

476 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba

waltonstores.com.au

5

Dine Down Town From 5pm on the first Friday night of the month, grab a picnic blanket and head to Dine Down Town, a street-food market offering multicultural cuisines and live entertainment under the stars on the grassy grounds of St Luke’s Anglican Church.

152 Herries Street, Toowoomba

theoriginalmix.com

Walton Stores’ Asian street food.

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airnorthnews

Events to plan for: April 8 Weetwood Race Weekend, Toowoomba weetwood.com.au April 30 Opera in the Vineyard, Ballandean Estate ballandeanestate.com/ operainthevineyard.aspx May 19-21 First Coat Art & Music Festival, Toowoomba firstcoat.com.au Ground Up Espresso, Searles Lane.

Amazing works can be discovered along the First Coat Street Art Trail.

May 20-21 Hampton Festival, Hampton hamptonfestival.com July 20-30 Jumpers & Jazz in July, Warwick & Killarney jumpersandjazz.com July 22 Opera at Jimbour, Jimbour jimbour.com

6

Walk the First Coat Street Art Trail Stroll around the city centre and you can’t help noticing large, vibrant street-art murals. Part of the First Coat Art & Music Festival, they’ve transformed bare walls into the largest outdoor gallery in Australia.

You can make your way around more than 30 murals but, if time is limited, check out ‘The Elephant’ by well-known Brisbane artist Fintan Magee at 488 Ruthven Street. The fourth annual First Coat Art & Music Festival will colour the city from May 19-21.

Hume Street, Toowoomba firstcoat.com.au

Felton Food Festival.

September 15-24 Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba tcof.com.au

7

Coffee culture at Ground Up Espresso Blink and you’ll miss skinny Searles Lane, off Ruthven Street right next to the Regional Art Gallery.

If you miss it, you’ll miss one of the locals’ favourite coffee spots, Ground Up Espresso. This lively hole in the wall has led the emergence of a hip café scene in Toowoomba. It’s the perfect perch from which to people-watch over breakfast or lunch, and you won’t meet a happier bunch of baristas. facebook.com/grounduptoowoomba

Katherine Gorge at Sunset 10

August 4-6 Tara Festival of Camels & Culture, Tara tarafestivalncamels.org.au

Japanese Gardens.

airnorthnews

Where to stay

8

See city icons Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery is the oldest gallery in regional Queensland and the custodian of many precious works (tr.qld.gov. au). The Cobb & Co Museum is home to the National Carriage Collection and hosts handson workshops in heritage trades and skills like blacksmithing, silver smithing, millinery, leatherworking and lead-lighting (cobbandco. qm.qld.gov.au). The Empire Theatre is an art deco treasure where you can catch a show or do a backstage tour from 10am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. empiretheatre.com.au

9

Taste local wine Just 15 minutes’ drive out of town, you’ll find Preston Peak Winery – the perfect spot to take in serene mountain views over a wine tasting at the cellar door. Winter weather dictates you sample the 2010 Reserve Merlot, which the winemaker describes as having rich aromas of black cherry, tobacco leaf and cedar perfectly complemented by flavours of fruitcake, with a lingering coffee finish. Yum! It’s open from 11am to 3pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

My Local Feast Farmers’ Market.

133 Margaret Street, Toowoomba,

questapartments.com.au

Constellations, showing at EmpireT heatre, May18.

430 Preston Boundary Road, Preston

prestonpeak.com

10

Take a country drive Hire a car and explore the winding roads of Southern Queensland country. Head for Darling Downs Zoo, the Woolshed at Jondaryan, Killarney’s waterfall trail, Girraween, the Bunya Mountains, Ravensbourne or Crows Nest national parks, or explore the wonderful wine trails of the Granite Belt or South Burnett.

Quest Toowoomba Once an old church in the heart of the CBD, this beautiful building is now the perfect base for business and leisure travellers.

Offering superbly furnished, fully equipped serviced apartments just minutes from Grand Central Shopping Centre shopping, Quest’s also a stone’s throw from delicious dining options along Margaret Street, iconic Queens Park and the Empire Theatre.

ecoRidge Hideaway If a few nights in a rustic mountaintop cabin sounds like your perfect winter escape, book a stay at ecoRidge Hideaway.

Perched on a ridge of the Great Dividing Range at an altitude of 620m, ecoRidge offers peace and simplicity, only 15 minutes’ drive from Toowoomba. The best news is that there are just three self-contained contemporary chalets, built in accordance with eco-friendly practices to minimise your carbon footprint. Book well ahead.

712 Rockmount Road, Preston,

ecoridgehideaway.com.au Darling Downs Zoo.

B&B Wanulla A quick flip through the guest book at Wanulla, Margaret and Steve Savage’s beautiful B&B in the heart of Toowoomba, and you get the impression you’ve happened upon one the country’s best guesthouses. Because you have! Offering just two beautifully appointed rooms, personalised service, well-tended gardens and amazing breakfasts cooked by Steve, a stay in this historic Queenslander is like finding your second home.

4 Burns Street, East Toowoomba,

The Cobb & Co Museum.

bandbwanulla.com.au

Potter’s Boutique Hotel For a premier stay in Toowoomba, you cannot surpass the quality inclusions and superior feel of Potter’s Boutique Hotel.

Nestled in the CBD of the ever-expanding Garden City, this lovely hotel has views over Queens Park and is close to the newly refurbished Grand Central Shopping Centre – great for a shopping trip.

258 Margaret Street, Toowoomba,

pottershoteltoowoomba.com.au Preston Peak Winery.

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Use of PEDs

(Personal Electronic Devices) The use of Personal Electronic Devices and telecommunication devices on board is allowed in certain circumstances. This information is to help you ensure that you are using these devices correctly on board our aircraft.

The belo tables vario w list th PED us type e so s for t and deta f heir ils u boar se on d.

PERMITTED DEVICES

Mobile Phones

PED Type

Restrictions For Use

Mobile phones can be used: • When passengers are embarking/disembarking via an aerobridge • Gate-to-gate on board the aircraft Mobile phones must be placed in ‘flight mode’ once the last aircraft door has been closed.

Mobile phones can continue to be used in flight mode until you arrive at your destination.

Hearing aids Medical implants Electronic watches GPS receivers Video and still cameras Calculators Electric shavers

May be used at any time on board the aircraft.

TRANSMITTING DEVICES WITH FLIGHT MODE OPTION Flight Mode ‘Flight mode’ must be selected on your devices prior to the last door closing on departure.

Selecting flight mode will disable devices’ transmitting functions, preventing them from making calls or sending emails.

Mobile phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) without flight mode capability activated may not be used in-flight.

Flight mode capability is only permitted during take-off and landing on the Embraer E170 aircraft.

PED Type

Restrictions For Use

Small PEDs PEDs of less than 1 kg that can be held in one hand, with their largest dimension no greater than 25 centimetres.

Examples include Kindles, iPads, Galaxy tablets and smart phones.

• Approved for use gate-to-gate.

• In order to be used on board, these devices must have their transmission capabilities deactivated prior to the last cabin door closing.

Large PEDs

• These devices must have their transmission capabilities deactivated prior to the last cabin door closing if they are to be used in-flight.

• Devices must be stowed in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you during taxi, take-off and landing.

• Devices with transmission capabilities deactivated (i.e. in flight mode) may be used in-flight once the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ signs are extinguished after take-off, and until the ‘Fasten Seatbelt’ signs are illuminated for landing.

PEDs weighing 1kg or more, PEDs of less than 1kg that cannot be held in one hand, PEDs with their largest dimension greater than 25cm or clam-shell-type devices.

Examples include laptops and personal computers.

Turboprop PED requirement All personal electronic devices, even those with flight mode capability, must be switched off prior to boarding the aircraft and passengers are to follow the direction of the crew as to when they’re safe to use upon landing. PEDs are not to be used when crossing the tarmac.

12

Photograph courtesy of Doric Group

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airnorthnews

DOORS OPEN AT UPMARKET TOOWOOMBA HOTEL Gold Coast-based property developer John Potter has opened a new hotel in the Garden City: Potter’s Boutique Hotel Toowoomba.

T

he $10 million, 55-room hotel in Margaret Street is the Potter Group’s first development foray into the Darling Downs and the latest hotel project for the city of Toowoomba.

John Potter’s Oceanside project in Mackay has received several tourism industry awards, including the 2015 Queensland Tourism Award (Silver) for New Tourism Business.

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio says attracting projects like Potter’s Boutique Hotel to the city is an important part of the Council’s long-term vision for the region: that it becomes a major investment and business hub.

Mayor Antonio says, “We have a strong business community and plenty of world-class events so it’s great to be able to increase our offering of quality accommodation.”

“We are very excited to open, and confident the property will appeal to the business and leisure markets,” says John.

Peter Stronge and his wife Madeline, long-time friends of John Potter, have been appointed to manage the property following their successful tenure at Potter’s Oceanside in Mackay.

“I went to University with Peter 14

in Gatton and we both have a long association with Toowoomba. Peter was born and raised here and we spent many years playing rugby in this city, even winning the 1970 and 1971 grand finals at Gold Park,” John recalls.

The Stronges have enjoyed watching the finer details of the two-storey hotel come together.

“There are a host of features which make this hotel buzz,” says Madeleine.

“Every room has a king-sized bed and the design is modern, fresh and stylish.

“We want guests to have a ‘wow’ factor, and are confident we can deliver a fivestar experience. Everything from the beds and pillows to the room amenities have been carefully hand-picked.”

The upmarket property, just a short walk from the $500 million Grand Central Shopping Centre precinct, offers a mix of family-style accommodation, king or twin rooms, and three disability rooms with interconnecting doors for carers or family.

The property also features a separateentry restaurant and bar, open to guests and the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with Asahi beer on tap and a great selection of cocktails. Don’t miss Friday afternoon happy hour!

14

HORSING AROUND in Katherine WORDS: MELISSA RIMAC

destination

Katherine is as special for its characters as it is for the spellbinding outback landscapes that surround it. ust how do you talk to a horse?

It’s an unlikely question, but one that Tom Curtain is ideally placed to answer.

‘Horse whisperer’, ‘horse magician’ and horseman extraordinaire: whatever you call this softly spoken, passionate northerner, the affection of his equine cohorts speaks volumes.

Legend – a gleaming bay stock horse – is in Tom’s thrall, as are all the magnificent horses at his property just outside Katherine, in the heart of the Northern Territory.

Legend’s eyes twinkle as we’re introduced. Suddenly, the horse is lying on the ground surrounded by 10 feisty working dogs, each responding to verbal cues in a flawless choreography. No chasing, no barking, no sparring; they put my own horse-nipping cattle dog to shame.

With the canine team sorted and Legend back on his feet, Tom reclines on the horse’s back, grabs his guitar and launches into one of the many songs that are earning him growing acclaim as a country musician. The Katherine Outback Experience concludes with Legend giving his audience a bow.

At Tom Curtain’s show, which runs most nights during the dry season, guests are treated to performances involving dogs and horses – think, horses being ridden by border collies and kelpies – and to watching Tom work with young, unhandled horses while he explains the process.

Remarkably, the well-behaved Legend was once a ‘problem child’.

“Most of my horses come from troubled backgrounds – just about all were given to me,” Tom says.

“I never know what will happen when working with young horses,” he admits.

“I’m flying by the seat of my pants.”

Tom’s expertise is no accident. He trained his first horse at the age of 12 and honed his skills on cattle stations. Today, Tom’s reputation has spread so far and wide that people send him horses from all over Australia for training.

Last year, Tom trained more than 150 horses for everything from hacking to polocrosse, and he’s constantly upskilling his 13 Katherine Outback Experience steeds and dozen-plus dogs.

Legend, for instance, is presently learning to fetch beers from the Esky, adding this to a repertoire of useful

Smitt Rock, Katherine Gorge.

17

destination

“There’s no point arguing with a horse; you’re never going to win”

talents, such as rolling out a swag before lying on it, and bringing Tom his hat.

Tom Curtain’s horsemanship and his music take him all over Australia, but Katherine has worked itself into his heart.

“I love it up here because you get to meet so many great characters,” he says.

“You feel the laid-back vibe as soon as you arrive. It’s a bit of an oasis in the middle of nowhere. There’s a great community – lots happening in the way of arts and culture – and just 10 to 15 minutes from town, you’ll see brumbies, buffalo and Brahmin cattle roaming beside the road.”

Tom likes to take visiting friends to the Top Didj & Art Gallery and Mimi Arts and Crafts for a bit of local culture, as well as to Katherine Hot Springs, Mataranka Thermal Pool and Victoria River for fishing. For atmospheric dining, he suggests Marksie’s Stockman’s Camp Tucker.

Tom also has advice for those of us with unruly dogs and horses.

“I’m learning all the time,” he assures me. “There’s no point arguing with a horse; you’re never going to win. I’ve found it really helps to reward them as soon as they’ve done something right, not keep asking for more.”

Tom also stresses the importance of talking to horses and lavishing affection on them.

Right on cue, Legend steps into our conversation for a forehead rub.

For shows and under-the-stars events, visit katherineoutbackexperience.com.au 18

Wet season in Katherine provides many unique opportunities for hiking and rockhole swimming.

Come into the Katherine Visitor Information Centre for all your current up to date wet season information and for your best local rockhole experience and the hiking in the Nitmiluk National Park!

Welcome to Katherine!

See our land..... help us share our story!

Often called the ‘Crossroads of the North’ because of its location, Katherine is the fourth largest town in the Northern Territory and is located 312 km south-east of Darwin on the Katherine River.

The Katherine Visitor Information Centre is fully accredited and operated by the Katherine Town Council. Visit our online booking site to make all of your tour and accommodation bookings online: www. visitkatherine.com.au before you arrive, or come on into our centre and see one of our friendly staff and we’ll keep you busy on your holiday.

Katherine Visitor Information Centre Cnr of Lindsay St and Stuart Highway Katherine NT Phone: 08 8972 2650 Email: visitor@ktc.nt.gov.au Web: www.visitkatherine.com.au

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6 Pearce St, Katherine, Northern Territory 0851 P 08 8971 0036 M 0428 514 133 E: mimi-arts@bigpond.com

www.mimiarts.com Fuel Calibration Services specialise in Calibration & Certification, Metering, Maintenance and repair services to clients in mining, aviation, defence, and other high tech sector’s Australia wide including remote Areas, Off Shore and Asia Pacific. Incorporating a NATA accredited laboratory we provide the optimum environment to test and calibrate your equipment. We constantly maintain full ISO 17025 accredited compliance, and are valued for the accuracy and quality of our testing and calibration so you can be confident in the reliability of your equipment to meet all your businesses safety and industrial standards.

ALL CERTIFICATES SUPPLIED IMMEDIATELY ON COMPLETION OF WORK We also offer calibration of: • Test and Industrial Gauges • Dial Indicators • Oxygen Gauges • Pressure Transducers • Chart Recorders • Torque Tools • Scales & Balances • Pipes, Valves & Fittings

• Flow Meters • Hydrostatic Testing • Vernier Callipers • Micrometres • Dumpy Levels • Thermometers • Pressure Relief Valves • Tensiometers & Force Meters • MMC & UTI’s

Ph: 08 8947 4700

2/21 College Rd Berrimah, NT 0828 Email: info@fcsnt.com.au www.fcsnt.com.au

destination

WHEN IN KATHERINE ...

Although they feel far from anywhere, these outback experiences are easily accessed from Katherine:

by Melissa Rimac

Leliyn/Edith Falls

Scooped out of an ochre desert, a necklace of deep emerald pools fed by cascading waterfalls reveals itself at Edith Falls. Sliding off rocks that resemble solidified toffee, then floating under a royal-blue sky streaked with Little Corellas, I dearly wished I could have spent a whole day here. The pools are a relaxed, pandanus-lined walk from the car park and there are several appealing picnic spots.

Nitmiluk Gorge (Katherine Gorge)

Comprising 13 separate gorges, Nitmiluk Gorge is a maze of waterways threading through 12 kilometres of sheer sandstone rock walls. At times the painted cliffs stretch to 100 metres high. There are many ways to explore this iconic natural wonder: take a cruise, canoe, walk, fly or swim. Afterwards, chill out in the café at the visitor’s centre. nitmiliktours.com.au

Pine Creek

Picturesque Pine Creek is the sole surviving township from the area’s 1870s gold rush.

While strolling past corrugated-iron facades and old mining equipment, now scattered around the town’s attractive parks, you’ll see vast flocks of parrots so loud they almost drown out conversation. Don’t miss Pine Creek Railway Resort’s stylish eatery for scrumptious all-day breakfasts and other delicious goodies. pinecreekrailwayresort.com.au

Creature comforts

Outback doesn’t mean deprivation. For eco-luxe digs, head to Cicada Lodge (cicadalodge. com.au); for mid-range prices but plenty of comforts, try Knotts Crossing Resort (knottscrossing.com.au) or the Hotel Ibis Styles Katherine (ibis.com).

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profile

Marilynne Paspaley on Broome’s iconic Cable Beach.

PEARLof the North Beloved daughter of Australia’s most famous pearling dynasty and founder of the iconic Cable Beach Polo event, Marilynne Paspaley opens up to Outthere about her remarkable creative vision.

ctress; hotelier; jewellery designer; entrepreneur; mother – Marilynne Paspaley has worn many hats, often simultaneously.

Indeed, everything she touches seems to shine, just like the Pinctada maxima pearls that her family – first her father, and now Marilynne, brother Nick and sister Roslyn – have cultivated in Darwin and Western Australia’s North-West for decades, and that appear in the collections of Tiffany & Co, Cartier, Harry Winston, Chow Tai Fook, Falconer and more.

When we catch up with Marilynne, she’s in Aspen with Garry, husband of 27 years, eagerly planning a shift back from snow to sand for the May Cable Beach Polo tournament, number one on Broome’s annual events calendar.

“My husband and I started the Cable Beach Polo as a one-day event, in 2010,” she says. In the seven years since, it’s evolved into a threeday extravaganza.

“It has a profound positive economic impact on Broome,” Marilynne adds. “That’s

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the reason we started it: to bring the tourism season forward to support local businesses throughout the region.”

Bringing the exclusive game of polo to Broome, a beach-resort town on the edge of an enormous red-sand desert seems, at first, a bizarre juxtaposition – but the couple wasn’t deterred. “It just made sense to me,” Marilynne says.

“I think the event matches the destination – Broome is distinctive and unique. Beach polo is a rare event, only played in exotic destinations around the world. The event has become a must-do for visitors from all over Australia and, indeed, internationally.”

Natural assets The iconic 22.5km stretch of sand that is Cable Beach has many natural advantages, Marilynne points out.

“Our tournament is one of the very few that plays on sand groomed by the tides,” she explains. “Most tournaments pump copious quantities of water onto the sand to create an ideal playing field. We simply

plan our event to match the massive tides of Broome, and they compact the sand into a truly ideal playing surface.

“Competitors who have played snow and beach polo all around the world claim it is the best playing conditions they have experienced anywhere … and the spectators have a lot of fun as well.”

Hands-on approach With characteristically minute attention to detail, Marilynne remains the producer of the annual polo event; Garry is the production manager. “We are totally hands-on and begin working on the event at least six months in advance, as we have interesting challenges achieving such a large and unusual event in such a remote location,” she says.

And naturally, they never miss a match.

As far as challenges go, Marilynne cites the building of two award-winning Kimberley hotels as the biggest of her career.

She reduced her ownership and leased them out in 2014, but her passion for her adopted home town – for its history; its people; its

profile

Cable Beach Polo is a highlight of Broome’s annual events calendar.

spectacular backdrop – the wild, rugged Kimberley with its rich, warm colours and bloated boab trees – is yet to wane.

Marilynne’s intimate boutique guesthouse in Old Broome, Pinctada McAlpine House, is her home away from home. “I really enjoy talking to guests,” she says. “It is great fun making suggestions that open doors to experiences that might otherwise be missed.

“I think it is so important to create memories in life – otherwise, time passes all too quickly.”

A creative life Marilynne’s own memories started in Darwin, where her parents moved to continue pearling after World War II. “It was a wonderful place to grow up,” she recalls. “We had a really imaginative and physical outdoor life during school holidays: swimming, biking, walking everywhere, climbing cliffs.”

Marilynne created her first piece of pearl jewellery at just 16 years of age, but

designing wasn’t her only talent. “I liked to perform, even from the age of two!” she says.

“It just felt natural, whether it was dance, acting, mime or music. I loved it.”

In the 1970s and ’80s, Marilynne worked as a professional actress all over the country.

For her 1981 role in Darwin Theatre Group’s Buffaloes Can’t Fly, featured at the Adelaide Drama Festival, she was awarded the ‘finest performance’ gong. In 1985, she moved to Melbourne at the invitation of Rex Cramphorn of Playbox Theatre Company.

Marilynne starred in television’s G.P. and Il Magistrato (The Magistrate), and made a foray into film for Fred Schepisi’s awardwinning docu-drama Evil Angels, starring Meryl Streep and Sam Neill.

“There is such a freedom of expression in performance that I haven’t found equalled in anything else,” she confides. “I find life more exciting and enjoyable with creative people.”

Like father, like daughter Perhaps the earliest creative influence in Marilynne’s life was that of her father,

Nicholas Paspaley senior, MBE, who passed away in 1984.

“He was a self-educated man who led by example,” Marilynne says. “He was humble, generous, disciplined and a visionary who was very successful in his endeavours. He started with nothing but a loving family as immigrants in this country in 1918 and, from the age of 12, he created his own path.

“He had great integrity and was a man of his word. It is what I live up to.”

Following her father’s death, Marilynne was drawn back to the family business, this time playing a whole new role in an entirely new location.

“I opened our first retail store in Broome,” she recalls. “That led me to a ‘double life’: professional actress; and executive director of Paspaley Pearls.”

The retail arm of Paspaley Pearls proved so successful that Marilynne eventually stopped working as an actress.

“After opening our original Sydney store in King Street, I moved back to Darwin to establish our jewellery workshop and design

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profile Paspaley Pearls’ luxurious Sydney boutique.

Cable Beach Polo Tournament

program

Friday May 19 • Cable Beach Polo Official Welcome

Cocktails and delicacies By invitation only

Saturday May 20 • Match 1: Patron Challenge • Match 2: Kimberley Challenge

Venue: Cable Beach Polo Arena Open: 10am-2pm

• Dinner Under the Stars

department,” she recalls, “introducing annual jewellery collections and developing our own design style.”

Building a brand With the younger Paspaley generation at the helm, Paspaley Pearls went from South Sea Pearl producers to household name – synonymous with all things luxurious.

“It was certainly a stimulating 20 years,” assures Marilynne. “To build a brand is to make a promise to the market to deliver a quality product and experience, time and time again. It is a privilege to earn a client’s trust and a responsibility to live up to it.

“It helps to have an extraordinary product and Paspaley certainly has that. We put quality before quantity.”

Marilynne’s hard work was recognised in 1996, when she received a Pomeroy Award for Excellence for her contributions to the Australian jewellery industry; and on Australia Day 2008, when she was appointed Member (AM) to the Order of Australia for her service to business and commerce through

the marketing and promotion of pearls and Australian-designed jewellery.

Is this successful businesswoman as fearless as she seems? “Perhaps it is not so much fearless as visionary,” Marilynne says.

“I am excited by possibility and the opportunity to create – that is what drives me.”

Marilynne has passed this passion on to her own three sons, insisting they follow their dreams. “My children are grown; the youngest is creating a career path in New York and the older two have started their own families. I have never seen them happier in life.” she says. “We are very fortunate as a family.”

Clearly, she is fulfilled, but what does Marilynne Paspaley consider to be her crowning achievement?

“I don’t think in those terms,” she replies.

“Each project or period in my life has been one of growth and development and learning. I am extremely focused and give it my all, whatever it is I am doing.

“The achievements have been certainly satisfying, but life continues and there is more to learn – more to do and explore.”

“I am excited by possibility and the opportunity to create – that is what drives me.”

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Venue: Cable Beach Polo Arena Time: 6:30-10pm

Sunday May 21 • Match 1: Broome Cup • Match 2: Paspaley Cup IV • Airnorth Cable Beach Polo Award Ceremony • Airnorth Cable Beach Polo 2017 Farewell

Venue: Cable Beach Polo Arena Open: 10:30am-3:30pm

• Cable Beach Polo After Party

Venue: To be confirmed Time: 7pm until late

For more information and to buy tickets, call +61 8 9192 0588 or visit cablebeachpolo.com.au

Your story starts with us...

Kununurra, the Kimberley

helispirit.com.au call 1800 180 085

freshwaterapartments.net.au call 1300 729 267

triplejtours.com.au call 08 9168 2682

destination

of SPIRIT

SERENITY Taking a time out in Dili, Timor-Leste

WORDS: BEN MACK

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destination

bayedul Haque Mokul is building a juice factory. But not just any juice factory: his will be the first factory to make juice from local fruit in Timor-Leste.

Obayedul's story isn’t unique, either. This I realise within a few minutes of landing in Dili, when my cab driver proudly explains his plans to start his own version of Uber. This is surprising, considering I haven’t seen any other taxis on the road for the entire 15-minute ride to my hotel. But who am I to question things in a place where time seems to have no meaning?

Timelessness is a strong selling point in Dili.

You can take as little or as long as you want doing almost anything. Case in point: the same couple are still sitting in front of the rusticlooking Farol Lighthouse when I come back

about three hours later.

My talk with Obayedul that night, similarly, continues for a while. Sitting in the dim light of his store, we discuss anything and everything – including his juice factory plans. Infrequent customers bring warm night air in with them every time they open the loud aluminium door.

It's from our conversation that I gain a greater understanding of the sense of possibility that exists in Timor-Leste.

Because it’s such a young country (it became independent only 15 years ago, in 2002), Obayedul says there are few barriers to trying new things and opening new businesses.

And because this island nation has such a small population: everyone pretty much knows everyone. Obayedul has even discussed his

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destination

“With so few people and a profusion of jungle terrain to go along with its beaches, Timor-Leste is, unsurprisingly, an ideal ‘adventure tourism’ destination”

Timor-Leste is famed for its snorkelling and diving.

juice factory vision with the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, Rui Maria de Araújo.

Obayedul is far from the only friendly local I meet. My driver from the day before, Fernando, reappears the next morning, not long after I've rolled out of bed and woken myself up with an icy shower (a necessity, when the air can be as sticky at night as it is by day). Together, we set out to do what many visitors to Dili do: hit the beach.

Being a tropical island, Timor-Leste boasts beaches in spades. And considering it receives fewer than 60,000 visitors per year, odds are you’ll have those beaches almost all to yourself.

This is evident at near-deserted Cemetery Beach, near the slow-moving Comoro River. But 28

The famous Farol Lighthouse.

the rocky sand is practically broiling. Why does it have to be so hot? Pretending I am Usain Bolt, I sprint into the surf. The water’s crisp coolness washes over me. It is glorious. As we bob up and down on gentle waves, the air also has a freshness thanks to a persistent breeze.

With so few people and a profusion of untouched jungle terrain to go along with its beaches, Timor-Leste is an ideal 'adventure tourism' destination.

There’s enough here to satisfy even the most intrepid explorer. Whether it’s climbing or hiking around Tatamailau (also known as Mount Ramelau), the nation’s highest mountain, about 70km south of Dili, or elsewhere in Timor-

destination You'll have the beaches almost to yourself.

Portuguese colonial architecture abounds.

"... usually, however, the water is so clear ... spectacular corals and sea life are visible to the naked eye ..."

Leste’s interior, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on land.

In the water, diving among the corals around Dili or Atauro Island (25km north of Dili) offers spectacular opportunities to see wildlife in abundance – including the occasional enormous whale shark.

The fact Timor-Leste is the youngest country in South-East Asia also means word hasn’t gotten out internationally yet, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll have a dive site all to yourself.

Usually, however, the water is so clear you don’t need any special equipment. Spectacular corals and sea life are visible to the naked eye.

There are also adventures of a cultural kind to be found, which I discover visiting the Xanana Gusmão Reading Room – Dili's public library, named after Timor-Leste’s first post-independence president – a stone’s throw from the sea along the bustling (by Timor-Leste standards) Rua Belarmino Lobo.

The first thing that strikes me about the place is the historic appearance of the Portuguese colonial-style building. The second striking detail is the musty smell – which I'm not expecting at all. It's as though I've stepped through a portal that has transported me back into the 1800s.

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destination

INFO GUIDE STAY Casa Minha Backpackers is one of the cheapest at US$25 (AU$33) a night. It's in a good central location, and includes free breakfast. ohmgroupbd@gmail.com Discovery Inn’s level of luxuriousness rivals that of a hotel with rooms that cost twice as much. US$135 (AU$177) discoveryinntimorleste.com Beachside Hotel is one of the few hotels in Dili that’s actually on the beach. Only US$85 (AU$111) a night, it’s a real bargain. +670 7754 9681, beachsidehoteldili.com EAT Diya Restaurant at Discovery Inn has high-quality Timorese, European and Asian cuisine in an upscale colonial setting. discoveryinntimorleste.com Lili’s serves up Australasian fare, with mains costing less than US$5. It’s across from the ANZ on Rua Belarmino Lobo.

Letefoho Specialty Coffee Roasters supports local farmers. It’s also right by the beach. Beach Rd, Kampung Alor DO

Books about Timor-Leste’s colonial history, books exploring Timorese culture, books of modern fiction – line the shelves of the Reading Room, which opened in 2000.

There's a petite café in the back. The library also swaps and sells secondhand books. A sign explains: “Bring a book and $1 and take away a book, or buy any book for $2.” With whirring fans overhead offering welcome respite from the heat, it’s a hidden gem in a city of hidden gems.

Another gem is Diya, a restaurant that evokes the Dili of old. It’s inside a hotel but don’t let that fool you: this place is one of the best in town, with Timorese, European and Asian cuisine and wines from around the world.

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Curious to try Timorese food, I opt for the batar da’an nan manu tunu, a pumpkin and corn dish with grilled chicken and steamed rice. I am not disappointed.

Succulent, savoury and just the right amount of spice, washed down with an ice-cold glass of water so sweaty with condensation it almost slips from my hand, this meal is just what I need to recharge.

And at US$9 – Timor-Leste uses the US dollar as its currency – it's far cheaper than any equivalent back home.

With the humidity high enough to cause my glasses to steam up the moment I step outside the restaurant, the evening streets are mostly empty. Aside from the lack of people, there is a noticeable lack of mosquitoes. Not that I'm complaining.

The Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum is the place to go to learn about Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence. amrtimor.org Cristo Rei is a 27-metre-tall statue of Christ near Cape Fatucama. Expect an uphill walk, but spectacular views.

Xanana Gusmão Reading Room is housed in a beautiful old colonial building. The library/bookshop also has a café, and regularly hosts cultural events. Belarmino Lobo, Díli The best close beach is Jesus Backside Beach, with Cristo Rei looming behind it, but Cemetery Beach, near the airport, is usually quieter and offers great diving.

MORE INFO easttimorgovernment.com visiteasttimor.com

GROUP SAFARIS CORPORATE RETREATS PRIVATE CHARTERS Staying at Groote Eylandt Lodge:

one of the most exciting fishing grounds in the world

Call toll free 1800 877 O77 or visit GrooteFishing.com.au

• Waters Edge Accommodation • Seagrass Restaurant & Bar • Day Spa • Art Centre & Cultural Experiences • Conference Suite

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Entertainment

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The latest and greatest things to hear, see and read...

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OverDrive

st picaff k

The Doors: 50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition We’re in a nostalgic mood this month, which coincides nicely with The Doors launching the 50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of their debut album, originally released in 1967. The Doors is the album that put the group – including John Densmore, Robby Krieger, Ray Manzarek and Jim Morrison – firmly on the world’s music map, and is considered an all-time classic rock’n’roll debut.

Available from March 31, the set includes live performances recorded during a 1967 show at The Matrix in San Francisco.

Fleetwood Mac: Tango In The Night: Deluxe Edition Take yourself back to 1987 with Fleetwood Mac’s reissue of hit album Tango in the Night, including major hits ‘Big Love’ and ‘Little Lies’. Celebrating the classic album’s 30th anniversary, this collection is an expansion of the original, with a selection of rare and unreleased recordings, newly remastered sound and additional music videos. Tango in the Night has sold more than 15 million copies worldwide. It follows the recent deluxe edition of Mirage. Out March 10.

App Store, free Google Play, free No more library late fees!

OverDrive lets you borrow e-books and audiobooks and stream video direct from your local library. Access titles on any of your devices. Titles are automatically ‘returned’ once your time is up, and you can place holds on popular titles and create wish lists.

More than 30,000 libraries worldwide offer titles via OverDrive, so the odds are in your favour.

Chemical Maze – Shopping Companion

watch

App Store, $10.99 Google Play, $7.49 Working out what’s in various products so you know which to avoid is stressful. Chemical Maze is your secret weapon against hidden chemicals in foods and cosmetics. You can search for additives or ingredients by name and user-friendly rating codes tell you what each is, and which ones you’re best off avoiding.

You can also filter by dietary restrictions, effects on the body and food type.

Their Finest

Comedy/Drama/Romance M Based on the novel by Lissa Evans, Their Finest will take you back to wartime London, emptied of men, who are off at war. Heroine Catrin Cole finds herself bagging a copywriting gig for propaganda films. It’s drama, comedy and tragedy rolled into one as Catrin’s natural flair for writing surpasses expectations. You’ll find yourself wincing at the patronising treatment of women back in ’40s Britain and getting caught up in the tragedy of war. Their Finest stars Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy.

It opens in cinemas across Australia from April 13.

read Outback Governesses Paula Heelan, Harlequin Books, $29.99

Immerse yourself in this eyeopening collection of stories that tell what it’s like to teach children in Australia’s remotest rural areas. With incidents that feature feral pigs, Redback Spiders and massive explosions of insect populations, it’s a bush education for the educators themselves. Tasmanian-born Paula Heelan is also the author of bestselling books Australian Midwives and An Outback Life.

A Wife’s Heart: the Untold Story of Bertha and Henry Lawson Kerrie Davies, UOQ Press, $29.95 Bertha Lawson’s viewpoint is usually absent when we hear about infamous ‘bush poet’ Henry Lawson, but this book tells the couple’s story from her perspective.

Through their letters, it outlines the Lawsons’ courtship, marriage and separation, and uses their tale to explore the challenges of single parenthood.

Under the Same Sky Mojgan Shamsalipoor and Milad Jafari with James Knight, Hachette Australia, $32.99 This heart-wrenching memoir gives a human face to those refugees in Australian detention centres who face the prospect of having to return to their countries of origin and confront anything from prison to torture or even death.

Under the Same Sky is scheduled for release in May.

AirDates

App Store, free You meet someone really nice before boarding the plane, only to be seated too far away to continue the burgeoning friendship ...

Thank goodness you thought to download AirDates, the world’s first inflight dating app. Now you can explore that special connection on board, even without an internet connection!

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ESCAPE

Time is precious and if you don’t want to waste it, the Turbo Tent is the way to go.

Quick as lightning and easy to pitch, there’s a range of styles and sizes perfect for all occasions, from a few friends to a big family.

MADE TO ESCAPE VISIT WWW.BLACKWOLF.COM.AU OR CALL 1800 227 070 FACEBOOK.COM/BLACKWOLFGEAR

social

What’s On

Our top pick of events coming up around the country...

MAY

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O T T SED O N MIS BE

Port Douglas Carnivale, QLD MAY 26–28 Carnivale returns to Port Douglas north of Cairns, with lead-up entertainment in the Wonderland Spiegeltent from May 19. Don’t miss Ben Lee’s headline concert and Carnivale favourites Port on a Fork; Food, Music & Wine; and Paradise on a Plate. Family entertainment includes a ‘Little Big Top’ and a show aboard the legendary Bally Holley steam train. carnivale.com.au

APRIL

APRIL

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APRIL

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MAY

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April 7–9

April 21–23

April 30–May 7

May 21–25

The Dirt ‘N’ Dust Festival, WA

The End Festival, NSW

Tasting Australia, SA

The Gibb Challenge, WA

Held in the farm and mining town of Julia Creek, the Dirt ’N’ Dust Festival is a truly memorable outback experience. Extreme sports aficionados come for the gruelling triathlon, but it’s the novelty events – think bog snorkelling and cow-pat throwing – that make it this outback extravaganza beloved by locals and travellers alike. dirtndust.com

Held at Hill End Historic Site, near Mudgee, this festival celebrates the arts, culture and heritage of the region with live music, art exhibitions, performances and cabaret shows.

There’ll also be village tours, an artisan market, workshops – and plenty of food, wine and craft beer. It’s free, with a ticketed opening night show.

One of Australia’s most anticipated culinary festivals will take you on a journey from paddock to plate. This year includes a Maggie Beer Tribute Dinner and FINO Italian Feast with chef Marco Pierre White. The festival is about homegrown seasonal produce, promoting the region’s diverse culture and championing its premium producers. tastingaustralia.com.au

This annual mountain-biking event is a socially competitive, 660-kilometre team relay event that helps to raise community awareness and money for charity. The challenge route takes riders along the ‘Kimberley superhighway’, Gibb River Road, through the town of Derby and the acclaimed million-acre El Questro Wilderness Park. thegibbchallenge.com.au

else

where

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/the-end

April 13-15 Songkran Water Festival, All over Thailand An almighty, 3-day water fight to celebrate the new year (Buddhist). songkranday.com

April 28–May 7 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, USA A 10-day cultural feast: experience this vibrant Southern city through its music. nojazzfest.com

look

ahead

July 21-23 Splendour in the Grass Byron Bay, NSW A notoriously muddy festival, with top DJs and acts from the Australian scene. splendourinthegrass.com

August 3-20 Melbourne Int’l Film Festival One of the oldest international film festivals in the world and Australia’s most significant big-screen event. miff.com.au

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lifestyle

CULTURE

club

Got a thing for theatre? Love live music? Enjoy great galleries?

Read on for what’s happening this month...

PAW PATROL LIVE!, AUSTRALIA-WIDE MARCH 31–APRIL 29 School holiday fun for the kids is sorted with this animated favourite based on the Nickelodeon TV series, coming to stages in Canberra (March 31–April 2), Melbourne (April 8-9), Brisbane (April 13-15), Sydney (April 21-23) and Perth (April 28-29). It’s the show’s stage debut in Australia. Tickets for this action-packed, high-energy musical adventure are available online: lifeliketouring.com/paw-patrol-live

BLUESFEST, BYRON BAY, NSW APRIL 13—17

Featuring headliners Santana, Neil Finn, Zac Brown Band, Patti Smith, Buddy Guy and Mary J. Blige as well as the Doobie Brothers and legendary Bonnie Raitt, the 28th Bluesfest is shaping up nicely. Held at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm just outside Byron Bay, the blues and roots festival will feature multiple stages with 12 hours of music scheduled each day (and more taking place offstage), 100-plus food and market stalls, beer gardens, kids’ activities and various onsite camping options. bluesfest.com.au 4

lifestyle

April 24–May 21 SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL, SYDNEY Get ready to enjoy four weeks’ worth of belly laughs, with the 13th year of Sydney’s much-loved comedy extravaganza. International stars this year include Jason Byrne (IRE), David O’Doherty (IRE), Urzila Carlson (NZ/RSA), Daniel Sloss (SCO), Des Bishop (USA/IRE) and Stephen K Amos (UK). Locals include Merrick Watts, Dave Hughes, Aunty Donna, Joel Creasey, Matt Okine, Nazeem Hussain, Rove McManus, Susie Youssef and many more. sydneycomedyfest.com.au

The Bodyguard, Sydney APRIL 21–JUNE 11

Based on the 1992 movie of the same name, this show has enjoyed international critical acclaim. The Australian tour begins at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre this April and includes all the Whitney Houston hits you’d expect, including ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ and, of course, one of the biggest love songs of all time: ‘I Will Always Love You’. thebodyguardmusical.com.au

APRIL 28–30

Thredbo Jazz Festival, NSW Make the most of the spectacular Snowy Mountains before snow season starts at this three-day celebration of jazz, food and wine. The program features more than 18 bands in a variety of separate venues including bars, cosy restaurants, a nightclub and a community centre, at the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and around Thredbo Village Square. It’s a musical party around Thredbo – and all the action is within walking distance. Thredbo.com.au

ARGYLE DIAMONDS ORD VALLEY MUSTER, KUNUNURRA, WA

© Stephanie Barnes

May 19–28

The Kimberley’s biggest showcase will feature more than 30 events across 10 days. Muster highlights include the Kimberley Moon Experience on May 27, with Jimmy Barnes, Daryl Braithwaite and The McClymonts performing; the Kimberley Kitchen event, featuring My Kitchen Rules judge Colin Fassnidge; and the intimate Durack Homestead Dinner.

Save more than 15 per cent with a Muster Multipass, including the Kimberley Moon Experience, Kimberley Kitchen and Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow. ordvalleymuster.com.au

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 Rodel Tapaya: New art from the Phillipines

National Gallery of Australia ACT, March 18–August 20 Exciting new talent Rodel Tapaya draws inspiration from Filipino folklore and contemporary events in an exhibition of recent mural-sized painting, sculptural installation and works on paper. Tapaya meticulously pieces together pictorial fragments, from pre-colonial mythology and Filipino folkloric tradition, fusing the otherworldly with the real, in a visual grappling with contemporary politics, social and environmental issues. He explains, ‘I try to weave them in one continuum, and hopefully people find the narrative by their own journey through the maze.” nga.gov.au/installations/rodel/

Top Left: Artwork by Rodel Tapaya The promise land: the stars; Above: Vincent van Gogh - A wheatfield, with cypresses c.1889 © The National Gallery, London.  Marvel: Creating

 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces 2017: Van

Gogh and the Seasons NGV International. April 28–July 9 A must-see for those passionate about art and history, this is the largest collection of Van Gogh art works ever to travel to Australia. Internationally exclusive to Melbourne, the exhibition explores Van Gogh’s connection to nature and its seasons through a curated collection of paintings and drawings. Van Gogh saw seasons as representing the circle of life – birth, bloom, maturity and death – so head along prepared to ponder life’s big questions. ngv.melbourne

Keyframe for Avengers, Ryan Meinerding, Marvel.

MENTAL AS ANYTHING

Tickets and tour dates available online now.

TOUR 6

the Cinematic Universe Queensland Art Gallery, (QAGOMA).

May 27–September 3 This exhibition follows Thor, Iron Man, Captain America and their comrades from comic-book page to cinema screen in the first major Marvel Comics-related exhibition to be staged in Australia and the largest ever presented in an art museum, says QAGOMA Director Chris Saines. Using original artworks, film props, costumes and the moving image, the world of Marvel is brought to life. Catch up with old favourites the Hulk, Black Widow, Ant-Man, Black Panther and the Guardians of the Galaxy. It’s an absolute must-see for comic fans. qagoma.qld.gov.au

Cronulla, NSW, Australia April 29

SANTANA AND DOOBIE BROTHERS Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney April 13

GREEN DAY Most capital cities April 30–May 11

SAY HELLO TO THE

PUMPED-UP ISUZU D-MAX & MU-X

GO YOUR OWN WAY IN THE 3-LITRE, MORE TORQUE, 6-SPEED ISUZU D-MAX & MU-X The pumped-up Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X are stand out performers on or off-road. With the legendary Isuzu 3-litre turbo diesel engine, a beefed up 430Nm of torque and an intuitive 6-speed transmission across the range. Coupled with a Terrain Command 4WD system and outstanding towing capacity, the D-MAX and MU-X have everything you need to pump up any adventure. GO YOUR OWN WAY! Discover the pumped-up Isuzu D-MAX & MU-X at your Isuzu UTE Dealer or isuzuute.com.au

5-star ANCAP safety rating on 4x4 D-MAX Crew Cab models built from November 2013 onwards, 4x2 D-MAX Crew Cab High Ride models built from November 2014 onwards and all MU-X models. ^5 years/130,000km whichever occurs first, for eligible customers. Excludes trays and accessories. >The Capped Price Servicing Program (“CPS Program�) applies to Eligible Vehicles with a Warranty Start Date on or after 1/1/15 at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers only. The 5 years Capped Price Servicing covers the first 5 Scheduled Services for 16.5MY and later vehicle models for up to 5 years/50,000km (whichever occurs first). CPS Program is subject to change. For full terms & conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/service-plus.

lifestyle

Woollip Travel Pillow

Dometic WAECO 50L Cool Box Road trips are much more fun with fresh food and cold drinks.

Designed for maximum sleeping comfort on long journeys.

$50, woollip.com

$1,449, dometic.com

Must haves Don’t hit the road without these hot products!

Earth Eco bottle

Keeps drinks ice cold for up to 24 hrs or piping hot for 12 hrs.

$49, theseeksociety.com

TOMS Traveler Sunnies

Built tough for travelling, plus supports the One for One campaign, restoring sight to those in need.

$120, kathmandu.com.au

JBL Everest Elite 700 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Get away from it all, to the tune of your favourite soundtrack.

$399, jbhifi.com.au

11

KNOW THE RULES – FLY SAFE You must only fly during the day and keep your RPA within visual line-of sight.

You must not fly your RPA higher than 120 metres (400ft) AGL. You must not fly over populous areas where—if your drone was to fail—it could hit someone.

This could include beaches, parks, or sport ovals where there is a game in progress.

You must keep your RPA at least 5.5km away from controlled aerodromes.

You must keep your RPA at least 30 metres away from other people.

You must not fly your RPA near emergency efforts such as firefighting, search and rescue and police operations.

c a s a . g o v. a u / r p a

You can only fly one RPA at a time.

lifestyle

EAT & DRINK

CROSS-CONTINENTAL

TOAST TEST B

ackpacking solo across more than 20 European countries definitely taught me a few lessons in how to travel, the most important of which was to do as the locals do.

However the “when in Rome” route wasn’t always pleasant. Aussie light beer and pre-mix from the uni bar left me ill-prepared for the concoctions European locals would present gleefully to us tourists.

In each country, taking on the ‘national drink’ was something of a rite of passage. Down it like a local and you’d more than likely become an honorary citizen – even if it was just for the night.

Sarah Ison takes a slippery journey through some of Europe’s most notorious national drinks

HUNGARY

Drink: Palinka Cheers: Just don’t* Sitting in one of Budapest’s infamous ‘ruin’ bars, I heard a hush fall over the local onlookers as I raised the beaker-shaped glass to my lips. In a one-jerk motion I attempted to drain the palinka, only to have the spiced fruit brandy spill out over my face.

Wild laughter ensued as I was informed, “Palinka must be sipped – but don’t worry, we have all night to practice!” *Fascinating fact: Following raucous celebrations by the Austrian empire after they crushed the Hungarian Revolution, Hungarians swore off toasting for the next 150 years. While the declaration has officially expired, many Hungarians find the practice of toasting deeply insulting nonetheless. So – just don’t.

MONTENEGRO Drink: Rakija Cheers: ‘Zivjeli!’

Recounting my traumatic nocturnal bus ride from Budapest to the owners of the Montenegrin hostel garnered me not advice but a generous shot of clear liquid.

It was 8:30am. “Rakija,” Mica informed me – “Rakija will make it OK.” A distinctive taste of plum lingered in the otherwise viciously strong flavour. I did my best to enjoy the liquor in my glass, which was replenished continually. I learnt quickly that this 60 per cent-proof home-made liquor was the local answer to many dilemmas, from aches and illnesses to quiet, shared moments.

13

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lifestyle

ITALY

Drink: Grappa / Cheers: Salute!

Shivering in my sodden bathers on the boat ride back to the Amalfi mainland, I was approached by three sympathetic Sicilian girls.

I nodded vigorously when they asked if I needed warming up, hoping for a spare item of clothing. My face dropped when I was presented instead with an unmarked bottle. “Grappa is better than jacket,” one of them told me, convincingly, as I choked on the burning ‘fire water’. Twenty minutes later we could barely feel the wind as we re-enacted scenes from Titanic at the stern of the boat.

BELGIUM

Drink: Honey ale Cheers: Santé!

SWITZERLAND Drink: Schnapps Cheers: Zum Wohl!

After weeks of fruit brandies, distilled liquors and hard spirits I was relieved to try a more leisurely local drink. I didn’t even need to look at the menu; I had heard of the delicious honey ale and was eager to try it. Forty minutes later, I’d finished my second glass of the sweet, flowery brew and the barman was smirking at me, indicating I might want to slow down.

Confused, I squinted at the label on one of the bottles.

My vision took longer to clear than usual but finally, ‘8 per cent’ came into focus. I couldn’t help but smirk myself.

Still a little hung over from the night before, I was looking forward to a quaint evening of cheese-fondue tasting. I winced as a bottle of apple schnapps was placed on the table and my efforts to decline politely were ignored. “You must drink,” I was told, “or the cheese will solidify in your stomach – it can be very painful.”

Grudgingly, I sipped at the stiff, yet fruity liquor throughout the night. The infamous ‘cheese tumour’ may not have eventuated but the next morning was far from pain-free.

PORTUGAL

Drink: Port / Cheers: Saúde!

Following a performance of fado, the famed Portuguese music genre, I lingered to congratulate the musicians. “You must drink with us,” the performers urged, pushing a tiny goblet into my hand. I steeled myself against what was to come but found the sweet port wine warming my mouth most pleasantly. My surprise must have been evident, as the singers asked what on Earth I’d been expecting. I was at the end of a head-expanding bout of Euro-national-liquor sampling. It was a long story but a good one – “Saúde!”

15

social

YOUR CHARIOT

AWAITS

Choose your ideal road trip, we’ve got your ideal car WORDS: BEN SMITHURST

HEEL-AND-TOEING IN TASMANIA Why: Australia’s greatest drivers’ roads What: Porsche 911 Carrera Price: $236K to $274K The Apple Isle boasts many of the finest, twistiest, most rally-ready ribbons of tarmac in the country. From the amazing ‘99 Bends’ section of the Lyell Highway, between Queenstown and Gormanston, to the brilliant 166-kilometre run that links Launceston and St Helens – including sublime St Marys Pass – to the stretch of the Huon Highway south of Hobart to Tahune Airwalk, it’s hard to go awry – which is why the Targa Tasmania rally would feel wrong in any other place (admittedly, it could also have something to do with the name).

There are just two problems with Tassie’s otherwise routinely perfect roads. Firstly, they’re plagued by caravan-towing tourists with variable lane discipline. Secondly, they’re lined with an unfortunate amount of roadkill.

16

Which means that nothing less than a near-perfect driver’s car will suffice.

This gives you a few good alternatives, from the entry-level fun of a Toyota 86 or Golf GTI to the surgical precision of an Audi R8, the cut-price fun of a Mazda MX-5 or the near-death, unhinged lunacy of a Nissan GT-R. But if you can, try the legend that is the

Porsche 911. There are dozens of variants and all are great – even the once-mockable li’l sibling, the Boxster, is now wonderful.

But go for the 2016 Carrera, with its seven-speed manual ’box, intensely engaging dynamics, arguably the world’s best steering... and at just 1,440kg, its 309kW/500Nm combo is heavenly. If you have a quarter of a million bucks lying around, obviously.

social

ROMANCE ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD Why: Australia’s answer to California’s Big Sur is for lovers What: Mazda MX-5 From: $33,550 The people’s roadster was responsible for the Robin Hood-like feat of pinching the delights of convertible driving from the loaded and the hedonistic, and delivering them to the masses.

Mazda’s plucky li’l top-optional sports car is not much chop if you’ve got kids or more than a thimbleful of luggage. It’s also been (unfairly) maligned as a ‘hairdresser’s car’ – mostly by men whose V8 fixation was set in stone at age 14 and is yet to erode.

Yet to climb behind the wheel of this lightweight, low-slung, rear-wheel-drive icon is to tap into utilitarian joy. In the MX-5, your tailbone feels like it is centimetres from the bitumen, but not at the price of losing the fillings from every molar on the first pothole.

It’s hungry for turns but doesn’t require you to drive at lunatic speed to have fun. And in the new Mazda MX-5 RF GT model, you can invite the sky in and soak up the Great Ocean Road’s unique vistas for under $40K. Meaning more money left over to spend on seafood, B&Bs and SPF 50+ for the solar panel.

“It’s hungry for turns but doesn’t require you to drive at lunatic speed to have fun” HUCKING ACROSS THE NULLARBOR: AUSTRALIA’S ROUTE 66 Why: Big skies and long straight lines What: Audi RS 6 Avant performance Price: $245,000 Australia is built for Grand Tourers – big, comfortable, long-haul saloons. Which is why autobahn bombers like Audi’s fire-breathing Q-car work so well here… even if they champ and strain to stay inside our much-reduced, often archaic speed limits.

If money is no object, then you’ll go for Der Big German. And because it’s Australia, you’ll have bags and swags and spare tanks of petrol and water, so make it a wagon.

In the absence of the bonkers new Mercedes-AMG E63 S, with its 3.5-second 0-100km/h time (Merc won’t release it locally – damn you, Stuttgart!), Audi’s RS 6 stands supreme. Typically luxurious inside – Audi’s interiors make it an oasis in the desert – its 3.7-second sprint, ample space (it would be a perfect non-off-road surf car) and Quattro grip are superb.

And there’s still space for the dog.

17

social

DESERT DUELLING AND SILVER NOMAD TOWING Why: There’s a whole country to explore What: Isuzu D-MAX crew cab Price: from around $34,500 Isuzu UTE has just two local models: the D-MAX, a tough truck favoured by tradies and off-roaders alike, and the MU-X, a sevenseat SUV dropped onto a D-MAX chassis but with the leaf springs removed. The fact that this makes perfect sense in Isuzu UTE world is a testament to their hugely loyal, nononsense fan base, which eyes electronic bells and whistles with the sort of suspicion more often found among the Amish.

Both are go-anywhere machines – comfy without being fancy, and tougher than leather chewing gum, with 3.5-tonne towing.

The D-MAX’s ruggedness, in particular, is legendary – thanks largely to a potent, frugal 130kW, 430Nm engine. Its figures are shaded by those of some rivals because it’s detuned for reliability, but its willing-to-please attitude is endlessly charming, whether you’re driving up Uluru… or towing it back to Melbourne.

“It’s a testament to their hugely loyal fan base, which eyes electronic bells and whistles with the sort of suspicion more often found among the Amish” AN OLD-SCHOOL KOMBI BACKPACKER’S LAP OF OZ Why: It’s the journey, not the destination What: Volkswagen Kombi Transporter Price: Got a spare kidney?

If there is a modern equivalent of the classic Volkswagen Kombi van, it’s to be found among Gumtree’s litany of camp-ready Taragos and 4WDs with clocked odometers, or Wicked Campers’ garish, occasionally offensively spray-painted vans.

For purists, nothing but a Kombi will do – which is a problem, as restored classic vans now regularly go for more than $100K. (In November 2015, a red-and-white 1967 ‘11-window’ Kombi sold in Australia at a Shannons auction for $158K – not matching the $202K price of a Kombi sale earlier that year). Foreigners love Aussie Kombis, because they’re not rusted out like Euro vans by the salt applied to icy European roads in winter.

But the dream survives. You can even find sub-$10K bargains at sites such as righteouskombis.com.au and kombisales. com.au– but note: you may want to become a qualified mechanic first.

18

destination

JOURNEY

to VITALITY

More than just a holiday, you need deep relaxation and a detox. At these beautiful natural resorts, looking after yourself – and being looked after – equals a fresh start.

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE IN THE HUNTER VALLEY Open up and be your best self at the lush Golden Door retreat in the Hunter Valley Wine Region of New South Wales.

Not three hours’ drive north of Sydney, the Golden Door Health Retreat and Spa Elysia is tucked away, past Hunter Valley Gardens and Cypress Lakes Golf Resort and just within earshot of Hope Estate, where Bruce Springsteen is set to rock the stage tomorrow night. I roll up the hill to the gate and announce myself to the buzzer.

The returning voice is bright and cheery, welcoming me to Golden Door.

Inside, the retreat looks more like a luxury resort: cool and structured, with golden wood floors, high ceilings and large plate-glass windows offering views out over deep-green vineyards. I’m given a pin-on name badge that also has my room key and a timetable inside – genius – and ushered into the dining room for lunch. It’s 1pm.

I notice two huge tables of guests and 20

think, Wow, they’re big groups. I’ve been sitting alone at a third table for only a minute before I’m joined by Mel, then by two more trainers and two other guests. So that’s how Golden Door is – communal.

From where I sit, I can see the ridges of the Brokenback mountain range. I had no idea they were so beautiful.

A plate of fresh, crunchy salad with grilled fish is placed before me - lunch is served. I devour it with pleasure, noticing there’s no bread on the table, let alone butter. Ok, so maybe I have been hitting the refined carbs a bit too hard lately... To drink, there’s water or herbal tea.

Mel hops up and gives us all an introductory talk, explaining that as well as the usual three-day weekend program, a speciality course called “Reclaim and Reconnect”, covering nutrition and mindfulness, is running this weekend.

I head to my villa – my luggage is already there. It’s very private. Outside, kangaroos lounge under shady trees. I’ve got my own herbal tea and teapot. In the

rooms we’re allowed to use our phones.

Next stop is a massage at the spa. I don my bathrobe and head over early to explore – there’s a divine-smelling change room full of lounges with more tea and fruit water, as well as a sauna and a warm spa.

I shower and sink into it the spa tub for a blissful 10 minutes of bubbles.

In the gorgeous, chocolate wood Golden Door spa waiting room, there are gorgeous products to sample (and yet more tea).

I settle in with a magazine to wait. It’s begun to rain – a welcome reprieve for the fertile valley – and droplets fall onto the water feature-pool outside. My therapist approaches and leads me into a tranquil treatment room. There, in the dark, I soak up the gentle massage and relax.

Before dinner I chat with other guests over mocktails in the lounge. Most people are here on their own, with kids, pets and partners left to their own devices. From Sydney, Canberra and local Novacastrians – they’re here to focus on detoxing, weight loss, recovery from medical procedures

destination

“The meals are filling and delicious and it’s great to be so effortlessly body friendly”

and more. Many have been here before; some have brought their partners or daughters, or their mums.

The rain has stopped so after dinner Mel takes us on a brisk walk down the hill and through Cypress Lakes.

In the morning, there’s tai chi on ‘meditation hill’ as the sun rises over the valley, followed by a 10-kilometre hike. We traipse around the long road into town that I’ve only ever driven down on wine tasting adventures, and take a turn toward the mountains, stopping for a fruit and water break in the cool shade.

Next, we’re climbing up a dirt track through the bush. At the top of the hill, a van awaits and we’re rewarded with iced towels and a gluten-and-sugar-free muffin – carbs! The view, of soft green vineyards stretching to the horizon circled by misty mountain ranges, is truly breathtaking.

On today’s program remain deep-water running, stretch, Zumba, cardio-box and fit ball classes. But I head to bed for a nap.

There’s a superb yoga class after lunch – long, slow holds; challenging but invigorating – followed by a meditation

session. The teacher explains how meditation reconnects us to our ‘inner guidance’ and helps us to train our minds to work for us instead of the other way around. She guides us through a visualisation as we lie on cosy cushions.

One guest begins to snore.

Feeling decidedly peaceful afterwards I sit on my couch watching kangaroos jump madly about and play-fight as a lightning storm begins, white shards crashing over the mountain ridge.

By dinner, any initial shyness is gone – not so hard when we’re all in activewear most of the time. The staff is so lovely, engaging in vibrant conversations with new guests and welcoming back past ones. Mel, who’s been here since the resort opened 14 years ago, puts me right at ease with her frank and funny chats.

Dinner is delicious: salmon steaks, fennel salad, steamed peas and beans, pea puree, and white quinoa with lemon and dill, followed by an amazing flourless raspberry tart. Afterwards we head to the downstairs theatre for a mindfulness seminar.

On Sunday morning, I’m grateful for

the rain; it’s an excuse to sleep in. But it turns out that the morning walk has been cancelled anyway. Over breakfast of blueberry pancakes I’m regaled with stories of Bruce Springsteen’s performance.

By now I am seriously missing coffee.

But I love seeing the Hunter Valley in the vibrant, technicolour light of wellness.

The Sunday schedule includes a stretch class and deep-water running. Instead, I head to my 80-minute Collagen Booster Facial treatment at the spa. This is an indulgence. Swathed in a warm rug, I’m transported by the lovely music and experienced hands of the beautician as my skin soaks up the goodness.

Shiny and refreshed, it’s time to check out. By now I’m addicted to the house herbal teas and grab some from the gift shop.

A few guests exchange details but, all too soon, everyone from the weekend is off and the endlessly friendly staff is welcoming a new batch of health kickers.

I do sneak a cheeky coffee on the way home but am determined to cut down to one a day. And the carbs: well, I can survive on ‘good carbs’ – brown rice, quinoa, couscous, lentils and so on – after all, to balance out the odd heaped bowl of pasta.

Golden Door opened the door of my mind. This is the place to come and do all those healthy things for yourself that you always put off, with a bunch of instant friends. It’s like 10 weekends in one.

Visit goldendoor.com.au for booking and more information.

21

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where it’s needed most

Please donate now 1 3 S A LV O S | S A LV O S . O R G . A U

destination

CLARITY IN SRI LANKA A fine balance is restored at the Ayurveda Barberyn Reef Resort on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast.

The resort is slap-bang on the beach at Beruwala. Cool breezes filter between the trees. Everything is earthy and traditionally Sri Lankan, with carved dark wood furniture, whitewashed walls, high thatched ceilings and slow-moving fans.

Checking in after the long journey, I immediately start to unwind. My room is on stilts, replete with open-air shower.

From the four-poster wooden bed, canopied in a mozzie net, I can watch waves roll endlessly over the reef.

I’m at Barberyn so that the multitude of resident Ayurvedic doctors and healers can ‘rebalance’ me with treatments, teas and beautiful vegetarian meals.

Five-thousand-plus-year-old Ayurveda is a Hindu (originally Vedic) medical tradition that shares the goals of yoga, its sister science: health, longevity and enlightenment.

First stop is a consultation with doctor Damayanthie, dressed in a pink sari. She sets about diagnosing my Ayurvedic dosha (individual constitution) with questions and a physical check, including tongue and pulse assessment.

According to Ayurveda, everything in the universe is made up of earth, water, fire, air and space (ether). In the human body these elements combine to form three life forces: the doshas. Vata dosha is driven by space and air; Pitta dosha by fire and water; Kapha dosha by water and earth.

Dr Damayanthie tells me I have equal parts Vata and Pitta doshas. She writes on my card that my complaints are “medium stress, high acidity in stomach, neck and shoulder stiffness, pains”; and prescribes

treatments. I receive a paper bag of pills made from homegrown roots and herbs.

Dr Damayanthie tells me I might feel tired as the detox kicks in.

At dinner in the rustic restaurant, guests are speaking German and Swedish.

Sri Lankan food is rich but at Barberyn, everything’s organic. Some guests are on restricted diets but very little’s off-limits for me, so I eat the prescribed mild curries and stir-fries until I very nearly burst.

The evening lecture from Dr Mandala on balancing the doshas confirms I’ve been overdoing the stress and alcohol, and maybe even the spicy food.

Soothing tropical rain falls all night.

In the morning, I go straight to a fragrant treatment room, where two ladies massage me with healing oil, four hands gliding across my body in perfect symmetry.

In a daze, I’m led out to a row of cot

beds on a verandah, where guests lie covered in mud and cloths and eye-sacks.

Lying in the balmy air, my mind begins to cool and my body winds down.

The next few days are a blur: I take medicine, detox, meditate and have massages. One treatment, Kati Vasti, entails having warm medicated oil dripped onto my lower back before a gentle massage and steaming.

By day three, I can face a morning yoga session. The Sri Lankan yoga teacher reminds me to lift my chest and hold my chin level to the ground.

By the time I leave Barberyn I’m painfree, with glowing skin and such mental clarity – a by-product of balance – that I feel I’ve given myself a priceless gift.

For more on Barberyn Ayurveda Resorts, visit barberyn.com. Discover your dosha at store.chopra.com/dosha-quiz 23

destination

Healing

by Hand

SMILING IN THAILAND A visit to award-winning Tao Garden Health Spa and Resort in the mountainous north of Thailand will leave you smiling, inside and out.

Tao Garden, in the leafy bamboo-forest town of Chiang Rai, is both a school and a healing centre. People travel here from all over the world to experience and learn about holistic Taoist therapies, and to meet Grandmaster Mantak Chia.

The Taoist master is listed regularly on Watkins’ list of the 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People, among luminaries including the Dalai Lama, Pope Francis, Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle and Oprah.

24

Taoism, represented by the yin/yang or tai chi symbol, is the 5,000- to 8,000-yearold foundation of Chinese philosophy and medicine. In the Taoist view, body, mind and spirit are integrated by vital ‘life-force’ energy, or chi. Harmony, balance and good health are achieved via the free flow of chi.

A key Taoist concept – along with ‘going with the flow’ – is increasing and circulating chi through techniques such as acupuncture, meditation, qi gong and tai chi. All these techniques are part of the program at Tao Garden.

The resort grounds are laid out in an octagonal design, with winding streams and Taoist symbols patterned in tiles or carved into hedges, to encourage the flow of chi. There are classrooms overlooking

You don’t have to go to Thailand for a Thai massage.

The roots of Nuad Bo-Rarn can be traced back 2,500 years to doctor Shivaga Komarpaj, a friend of the Buddha. In Bangkok, the walls of Wat Po temple are lined with ancient medical texts carved in stone, which preserve the tradition. Each stone text depicts a body with a particular illness and how to treat it with massage.

Thai massage incorporates Hatha yoga, acupressure and reflexology, mixing styles from all over Asia. In Thai massage, the therapist’s hands, feet, forearms, knees and elbows may all be used to apply pressure and free tension and toxins.

The result is a general feeling of wellbeing, with balanced body, mind and spirit.

the river, with simple wooden floorboards and high ceilings.

The clinic’s clean but basic; practitioners combine Western technology and Chinese traditional medicine, recommending person-specific treatments and detox regimes. Meals, made from produce grown organically on site, are fresh and delicious.

Thailand can be crowded and busy but Tao Garden is tranquil and quiet. After a few days of meditation classes and spa visits and relaxing by the saltwater pool, everything seems alive to me. I can almost feel a tree release a coconut, feel it thud to the ground and roll lazily through the shiny bushes down the riverbank. I walk along a path into a clearing full of flowers and see butterflies dancing together, playing with an invisible strand of chi.

Walking past the open-air tai chi pavilion,

destination

74 year-old Grandmaster Mantak Chia guides Tao Garden guests through the practise of tai chi.

I feel an intense wave of energy coming from a circle of people who are deep in the rhythm of the practise.

One day, at lunch, I spot Mantak Chia himself sitting alone at a table. Gingerly, I approach and ask about the famous Chinese ‘Inner Smile’ meditation, which is how I first heard of him.

The sparkling-eyed septuagenarian is more than happy to tell me about it.

“The inner smile started with the very simple theory that each organ holds different emotions,” he explains. “In the West, they know very well that if we talk about love, it’s in the heart. So we draw a red heart for love.”

“We are a product of alchemy,” says Master Chia. “Alchemy turns the material to immaterial. For example, when wood burns it becomes fire. The heart is material, but something is activated for it

“Smiling to yourself is like basking in love, and love can repair and rejuvenate”

to feel love, which is immaterial.”

“Love has fire energy. Love can change anything. Smiling to yourself is like basking in love, and love can repair and rejuvenate,” continues Master Chia.

Indeed, science has proven that smiling activates the parasympathetic nervous stystem, switching of ‘fight or flight’ mode, and switching on homeostasis or ‘rest and digest’. And the ‘inner smile’ is an easy skill to learn, even for children.

“So the first thing is to create a loving energy by smiling sincerely with your eyes,” Master Chia explains. “Smile to your heart and fill it with love. Radiate the love out, letting it flow to all the organs.

“Smile into the part that feels tension and strain, and gradually see the negative energy transform into positive, vital lifeforce energy.

“It is so very simple and yet so very effective. Wherever you are – smile and relax, and let the loving feeling spread throughout your body. Living with an inner smile is to live in harmony with yourself. If you love your own body, you will be more loving to others and more effective in your work. Cultivate a peaceful, loving heart; and your troubles will melt away,” advises Master Chia.

Find out more at tao-garden.com

Island

Escape

Down in the lovely south of Thailand, I take a boat to The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. A destination worthy of its highbrow name, this place is heaven. Cliffside villas overlook the ocean, with views all the way to the Phuket coastline. At The Naka Island’s luminous spa, a tranquil healing massage puts me back on track.

Afterwards, I lounge in my private infinity plunge pool as the sun sets over Phang Nga Bay. nakaislandphuket.com

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destination

REJUVENATE IN BALI A nutrition boost at the renowned Fivelements in Puri Ahimsa, Ubud, will set you on the path to rejuvenation.

Arriving at Fivelements is like entering another dimension, and it takes a moment for my eyes to adjust.

Everything is open; the only structures thatched-roof bungalows, made from golden woods and bamboo, that disappear, camouflaged, into the rainforest.

I’m welcomed and led slowly down a stone path. The air is clean and a butterfly dances past. My bungalow is circular with a high roof and canopied bed. Gentle music plays, with everything controlled by one device. The bathroom has refillable china toiletries and delightful natural products.

I hurry back along the geometric paths and take a seat in the award-winning Sakti Dining Room™, ordering a Thai curry for lunch. Beside the open-sided restaurant, the Ayung River bubbles downhill, and birds call. I fall to staring at the trees.

An eco-conscious, not-for-profit

organisation, Fivelements aims to heal and educate guests through living foods; through traditional Balinese healing treatments; and though the ‘sacred arts’, including meditation, reiki and yoga.

The menu is 80 per cent vegan and mostly raw – plants in their natural, uncooked state. There’s no meat, no dairy, no alcohol. But there’s no reason to be nervous – my curry is exquisite: rich coconut-based sauce; nutty red brown rice; exploding, tart tomatoes; soft tofu and delicious fresh vegetables. It’s exciting to realise whatever I eat here will do me good.

After a brief food-coma, I visit the spa for a facial, wondering what natural The food here is 80 per cent vegan and mostly raw.

26

ingredients like honey will do for my complexion. But the treatment is magical, and includes a facial reflexology massage.

Anxiety and tension disappear.

As I sit by the pool next morning I feel rejuvenated already, my busy mind overshadowed by my contented soul.

This place is so abundant with life. I’m surrounded by hibiscus and frangipani, huge-leaved banana trees and dangling vines. Coconut trees wave high above, visited by the odd squirrel. Large birds fly overhead; tiny ones flit below the forest canopy. Butterflies spin and drift.

Ubud is spa and wellness central. I take the shuttle into town, wander around and look into galleries, health-food restaurants, ‘conscious living’ stores.

Resting in a shady pavilion in the town centre, I watch neat Japanese tourists, and ladies in long sundresses, come and go. Cab drivers sit smoking on the steps.

Languages and incense float on the warm, dry breeze. An old, tired dog lies a few feet away, the subject of happy-snappers.

Next day I go back to the Fivelements riverside spa for a two-hour treatment.

First, the therapist holds my palms to align her energies with mine. Then she massages me firmly, front and back, with coconut oil, my feet wrapped in steamy towels. After a palm-sugar scrub she readies the huge stone bath on the balcony, tossing in soothing oils, detoxifying

“Just 24 hours after arriving, I feel refreshed and alive I have to pinch myself: yes, this natural, organic, harmonious place truly exists, here and now”

Spa thalassotherapy at Ayana Resort & Spa, Jimbaran Bay

salts, pandan leaves “to clear the head”, lemongrass to activate circulation, and heaps of sliced ginger, lime and orange.

It’s heavenly, so fragrant and warm.

Gazing out at the river and the trees, I feel like Cleopatra, and try not to imagine the lime slices in a gin and tonic.

Just 24 hours after arriving, I feel so refreshed and alive I have to pinch myself.

This place is surreal, and focusing on healing has made me so happy, so fast.

Dinner is superb; exquisitely presented, the flavours intense. I order zucchini flowers stuffed with tofu, mushrooms, ginger and chilli for entrée, then marinated tofu, wrapped in baked eggplant on a bed of spinach and coconut black rice with basil-coconut sauce for mains.

The elegant waitress offers me dessert.

I can’t fit it in, but she brings me a delicious raw-cacao-and-cocoa-butter chocolate.

Fivelements Chef Made Runatha studied in California at the Living Light Culinary Institute with Cherie Soria. His philosophy is that “food is medicine”.

Made had been unable to sleep for 25 years – “all my life” – he tells me. Now he eats a raw vegan diet, and says he is asleep at eight and wakes at dawn.

“Raw food is alive – it makes you feel alive,” he says.

Chef Made’s own life force is magnetic.

Bright light seems to shine through his skin.

He tells me of a Malaysian doctor who

suffered from diabetes, but after just a few weeks at Fivelements, her PH balance returned to normal.

There’s an art to raw-food ‘cooking’; but you can start simply – say, with a green smoothie for breakfast: blended frozen banana and strawberries, with spirulina powder and kale, or spinach leaves. Add a salad to your day. Eat more fresh fruit and freshly squeezed juice. Start by making one-third of every meal raw, then increase the proportion, suggests Chef Made.

Over breakfast on my final day at Fivelements, I watch a lady in a yellow silk sari perform the beautiful daily ritual of Canang sari, in which the Balinese place incense and little palm-leaf baskets of flowers at tiny shrines to thank the gods (or ‘house spirits’) for keeping the peace.

I take a morning yoga class in the bamboo pavilion, then receive an ‘energy healing’. During the reiki treatment, I fall into a deep trance. Without touching me at all, the healer has cleared my chakras. I feel heat wherever he passes his hands. He goes over my organs and my energy meridians.

When he’s finished, he chants, “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om…” Afterwards, the therapist recommends pranayama breathing to keep my heart chakra open. I cannot think of a better place to open my heart than here.

To learn about treatments or a tailored program, visit fivelements.org/en

Thalassotherapy is a 150-year-old French spa treatment that kickstarts circulation and restores vital trace minerals and ions via a deep tissue, saltwater massage through turbocharged spa jets.

The opulent, multi-levelled Aquatonic Pool at Ayana sits under a marble pavillion with gushing fountains, overlooking tropical gardens and the glittering sea. The pool contains 700 million litres of water from the Indian Ocean, heated to body temperature so the skin can directly absorb beneficial minerals, including magnesium, potassium and calcium sulphates.

This treatment involves making your way through the maze of 12 hydromassage stations, each with a host of jet streams, micro-bubbles and geysers that pummel every part of the body, awakening cells and tissues, releasing toxins and tension and boosting circulation.

Book at ayana.com

27

destination

DOWN to WORDS: Kerrie Davies

Chart-topping soul sister Missy Higgins talks motherhood, music and work–life balance as she prepares to perform at this year’s Big Red Bash.

issy Higgins is driving across town looking for a “proper microphone” for her home studio.

“My producer lives on the other side of Melbourne,” she says. “It’s a 45-minute drive so instead, I record something at home and he sends it back. It just works better. It was hard to get home before bedtime and look after Sammy. My time is a lot more precious these days.”

That teenager with the soulful Aussie style who won Triple J’s Unearthed competition back in 2001 (Higgins’ sister posted her song ‘All for Believing’ to the radio station – without her knowlege) has evolved into a seasoned 33-year-old musician, wife and mother to two-year-old Sammy Arrow. And she’s busily working – from home – on a new album.

The captivating singer/songwriter is also set to delight Australian fans this July, when she takes to the stage, headlining outback music festival Big

Red Bash in Birdsville, on the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert.

“We might want to make it a family trip,” Missy muses. “It’s going to be a heap of fun. I’ve never been to the Queensland desert before and from what I hear, it [the Big Red Bash] is an extraordinary event.”

“It feels like the real Australia,” she says of the desert. “I’ve played shows in the Kimberley and it can be a powerful, spiritual place because there’s nothing between you and the landscape.”

The Kimberley is where Missy met her husband, Broome playwright and comedian Dan Lee, through mutual friends four years ago. The couple married in March 2016. Missy first spent time in Broome solo in 2006, and the town was the inspiration for her acoustically focused second album, On a Clear Night (2007).

After the success of this charttopping album and her second number one single, ‘Steer’, Missy disappeared from the music scene. The artist later

confessed in a 2014 interview that she was grappling with writer’s block.

Space to Breathe Missy Higgins had been in the spotlight since the age of 21, when her chart-topping EP ‘Scar’ and ARIAwinning debut album The Sound of White (2004) were released. The media and fans alike pored over her raw, honest lyrics. Missy became known for everything from her bisexuality to animal-rights activism (in 2012, Missy was crowned ‘Australia’s Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity’ by PETA) and her carbon-neutral tours.

The Sound of White remained on the Australian charts for two years, going platinum nine times. Missy then set her sights on America, where she made her debut in January 2005 with the ‘All for Believing’ EP. “I’ve done a lot of touring in the USA, lived over there for a year and a half, and worked hard to create a following.” she explains. “My fan

“I’ve played shows in the Kimberley and it can be a powerful, spiritual place because there’s nothing between you and the landscape.”

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destination

base is nearly as big there as it is here.

I really love the audiences. They’re always so enthusiastic. They are ‘boutique’ music lovers, who found me rather than being introduced to me, so they are attentive people who really appreciate my music.”

But after two number-one albums and USA tours, writer’s block hit and Missy took a self-imposed hiatus. She wrapped herself in a quiet life and, in 2010, became an Indigenous Studies student at the University of Melbourne, testing out her acting chops in the Australian film Bran Nue Dae. As Missy’s confidence rebuilt, so 30

did her passion for music, and she started performing again, heading to Nashville to record The Ol’ Razzle Dazzle, which debuted at the top of the Australian charts on release in June 2012, her third album to reach number one. Her next project was an album of Aussie cover versions, titled OZ, which appeared in September 2014 with an accompanying book and a sell-out tour.

New Inspiration Missy jokes that people don’t care as much about her as they did when she debuted. This is typical modesty, given that she toured the USA last winter, then came home to do a national tour

over November and December 2016, performing with a full orchestra.

These days the understated singer clearly prefers a “family trip”. On the eve of her recent USA tour she told fans she was “super-excited to be taking my little family over there”.

“It’s been a few years since I was last in America,” she explained. “Last time I had a USA tour planned, my wonderful little accident happened (now named Sammy Arrow), so we unfortunately had to postpone…”

This time Missy sold out favourite intimate venues in Brooklyn, Boston and Seattle, with Sammy Arrow offstage at their hotel or with his dad, Dan, in

destination

“It is a matter of trying to create an artistic, poetic statement without giving away more than you need to”

Big Red Bash July 4-6 The Big Red Bash, set at the Big Red Dune 35km west of ‘outback capital’ Birdsville, is Australia’s most remote major music festival.

The festival is child- and dog-friendly, and free camping is available.

For more information, visit bigredbash.com.au

New York. “He didn’t mind different babysitters in every city and sleeping in different hotels,” Missy says. “He dealt with the jet lag better than we did.”

Missy’s new life as a mother was behind the heart-wrenching song, ‘Oh Canada’, released on February 19, 2016.

She wrote the ballad in response to the pictures of Syrian boy Alan Kurdî, who drowned with his mother and brother as they tried to reach Europe and, ultimately, reunite with family in Canada. The song raised funds for asylum seekers and was recently nominated for APRA Song of the Year.

“Like anyone who saw that photograph, I was just devastated.

I think I saw my own son,” Missy told ABC Radio last year. Alan’s father said the song was beautiful but painful, as it reminded him so starkly of his loss.

Writing again, Missy continues to draw from her own stories. As an artist, she is adept at creating lyrics and music that resonate deeply with listeners – songs that become soundtracks to people’s lives. Missy is adamant about staying honest, but acknowledges the need to keep some things private.

“It is a matter of trying to create an artistic, poetic statement without giving away more than you need to

and want to,” she says. “You need mystery in your music – there’s no beauty in reading out your diary.

You want people to relate to the song and adapt it to their own lives … connect to it.”

Missy hopes a lot of people will connect with her at Big Red Bash.

“Country towns are always fun,” she says. “People care less about what they look like and what they are doing than in the city. It’s a different energy.

“I’ve played in lots of outback towns, and things get loose and hilarious. I’m looking forward to playing music out there.”

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TOP END

TOOLKIT The experts from New Age Caravans get you set to explore Far North Queensland, from tropical rainforests to pristine beaches, world-class snorkelling and wide-open desert roads.

GREAT GREEN WAY, QLD

GREAT BARRIER REEF DRIVE, QLD

The luscious Great Green Way drive begins in Townsville and takes you all the way through to Cairns. Experience vibrant rainforest landscapes, natural wonders and picturesque beaches, such as the beautiful bay of Mission Beach. En route, the landscape changes dramatically, from the cane fields of Ingham to the strikingly lush, green forest scenery around Cardwell. The many national parks along this route will have you awestruck at the grand scale of their ancient rainforests.

Maps and more info: greatgreenwaytourism.com Best type of van: a luxury camper, such as those in New Age Caravans’ Big Red range

This unspoiled drive winds north from Cairns along the edge of the Coral Sea, past tropical beaches, past Palm Cove and Port Douglas (the ideal place from which to cruise out to the reef).

Further north, you’ll find Mossman Gorge, where you can explore the millennia-old culture of the Indigenous Kuku Yalanji people. If you’re looking to go off-road, head into the Daintree rainforest on a four-wheel-drive adventure!

Maps and more info: greatbarrierreefdrive.com.au Best type of van: an off-roader with ensuite, such as those in New Age’s Desert Rose range

GREAT TROPICAL DRIVE, QLD If you’re after cosmopolitan beachside vibes and exceptional coastal views, look no further than the drive from Palm Cove to Port Douglas, a stretch of Far North Queensland’s Great Tropical Drive. You’ll experience long, sandy beaches lapped by the Coral Sea on one side and rainforest-clad mountains on the other.

Be sure to make a pit stop at a deserted beach along your way – and at Rex Point Lookout, where an awe-inspiring 180-degree view of the Coral Sea and coastline begs for an #instaworthy photograph.

As you make your way into Port Douglas, iconic Four Mile Beach is a must-see.

Maps and more info: drivenorthqueensland.com.au Best type of van: spacious, yet stylish – think something from the Oz Classic range

DAINTREE TO CAPE TRIBULATION, QLD If you’re into wildlife, the Daintree has you covered! Perched on the southern side of the Daintree River, famous for its resident saltwater crocodiles, charming Daintree Village is the gateway to the region. The Daintree encompasses Cape Kimberley, Cow Bay, Cooper Creek, Thornton Beach, Noah Valley and Cape Tribulation, all of which you can explore by car or four-wheel-drive once you’ve crossed the river on the old-school cable vehicular ferry. Stepping onto the beach from the rainforest at Cape Tribulation, where two UNESCO World Heritage areas – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics – meet, is a unique experience. Spot turtles and dugongs as you kayak over the coastal reef. Be sure to join a night tour to spotlight nocturnal animals as well.

Maps and more info: visitportdouglasdaintree.com Best type of van: something lightweight and compact, such as a van from New Age’s Gecko range

• The perfect playlist: Essential accompaniment to your long, scenic drives.

Load up your laptop and make sure you have digital radio and USB accessibility in your van, plus surround sound.

• Hiking boots: Why not head out on a little adventure into the luscious rainforest greenery? Be sure to pack a comfy pair of hiking boots that won’t leave you with blistered feet in the middle of the Daintree.

• Snorkelling gear: You can’t get this close to the world’s most iconic reef and not take a look underwater! With an array of coral and sea life offshore to explore, a mask, snorkel and fins are sure to come in handy.

• Roadside assistance: You wouldn’t want a flat tyre or electrical fault to derail your explorations.

Make sure you also have insurance. New Age Caravans customers can call New Age Assist on 1300 968 396 for 24/7 help.

Check out the amazing caravan ranges at newagecaravans.com.au

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LAURA ABORIGINAL DANCE FESTIVAL

LAURA ABORIGINAL DANCE FESTIVAL

LAURA_FESTIVAL

experience

JOURNEYS INTO DREAMTIME Through Australia’s many inspiring Indigenous experiences, you can delve into a precious ancient culture and learn about the first people to call this great country their home.

WORDS: MICHELLE HESPE

ver the past decade, passionate people across Australia have been working hard to restore a sense of balance to the way local tourism and Indigenous culture meet. Today, hundreds of fascinating Indigenous experiences – more and more often run by Aboriginal Australians – offer priceless insights into a rich and ancient culture that was, until recently, threatened with extinction.

These six experiences from across Australia come highly recommended – all are great ways to begin your journey into the Dreamtime.

New South Wales

1

Bundyi Cultural Tours *For nature and language fans

Bundyi means ‘share’, and that’s exactly what Wiradjuri man Mark Saddler does on his fullday Aboriginal Cultural tours into ngurambang (country) near Wagaan Wagaan (Wagga Wagga) in southern New South Wales.

Language lovers will adore this tour as, along the way, Mark shares many words from the Wiradjuri language to help you connect with his garray (land) and mayiny (people) in the name of reconciliation.

As he drives the tour bus through the Riverina landscape, Mark recounts story after story of the Wiradjuri culture and its intricate ties to the landscape, describing how his people live with and use plants, animals, tools and ‘bush tucker’.

He points out sites – such as a bark scar on a box tree, made by a gilah (galah) who took the soft bark for its nest, then polished the scar to make it slippery so gugaa (goannas) couldn’t scale up and steal eggs from the nest.

In fact, they knock them off the tree!

Mark says. “We scar the trees as well, to make tools, such as gulaman

35

experience

(coolamons) – used as bowls, shields and baskets – but we don’t kill the tree; they heal themselves.”

He points out amazing scrapmetal sculptures in the streets of the tiny, historic town of Lockhart, made by farmers during the drought. Parking the bus in the Marrambidya (Murrumbidgee) wetlands, Mark offers lunch and demonstrates his hand-made yidaki (didgeridoos), coolamons, boomerangs, clap sticks and more.

Bundyi Cultural Tours also offers a ‘Tastes of Wiradjuri Land’ day tour, as well as guided tours of Riverina attractions around Junee, Coolamon, Wagga, Albury and surrounds. bundyiculture.com.au

2

Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours

*For lovers of watersports

Learn to paddle with some of the direct descendants of the world’s first stand-up paddle boarders, the Gumbaynggirr people, and connect to land and sea through their stories and language.

Wajaana yaam translates to ‘from this country’, and no visit to the lovely coastal town of Coffs Harbour in northern NSW, home of The Wajaana Yaam adventure starts with stand-up paddle boarding.

36

Mark Saddler from Bundyi Cultural Tours.

the Bundi Barrway – ‘Big Banana’ – is complete without some time on the region’s pristine waterways.

What better way to explore than via a morning paddle tour through the Solitary Islands Marine Park, with a Gumbaynggirr guide?

Great for kids of all ages, the Wajaana Yaam adventure starts with a few expert pointers on stand-up paddle boarding, then takes you paddling along tranquil creeks to one of three iconic resting places: the stunning and culturally significant Coffs Creek; Moonee; or Red Rock.

Feel the sand between your toes and the water over your body, and let it connect you to the soul of Gumbaynggirr country. Have fun swimming, snorkelling and trying a backflip off a rope swing. Learn Gumbaynggirr language and stories.

Collect and prepare bush medicines and foods for your tasting pleasure.

Wajaana Yaam is all about giving back to the community through education and financial support.

Owner Clark Webb says that they are now seeing local Indigenous kids getting really passionate about their language and culture. Webb says, “So yilaami! Come and have fun and contribute to our community.”

wajaanayaam.com.au

Northern Territory

3

Bamarru Plains, Wild Tastes of the Top End

*For foodies and glampers

Fans of safaris, glamping and interactive foodie experiences can enjoy a melding of all three pastimes when they make their base the private luxury lodge at Bamarru Plains on the Mary River Floodplain.

In a secluded part of the Top End near Kakadu, Bamarru Plains An airboat winds across the Bamarru Plains.

experience The Warlu Way offers many rewards if you stop to absorb the surroundings. is a magical place where wild buffalo roam en masse across lands Aboriginal Australians have called home for more than 40,000 years.

Wild Bush Luxury and top Aussie chef of two-hatted Biota Dining & Rooms James Viles have teamed up to deliver an immersive food experience – the Wild Tastes of the Top End Food Safari at Bamarru Plains – where meals are based on the seasonal bush tucker of the region.

Spot crocodiles, dine on yabbies and mud crab and head out foraging with the chef to gather native ingredients and learn about how

Indigenous Australians once lived and used the area’s abundant produce.

Bamarru is also a dream birdwatching destination: Magpie Geese, wild kites, honeyeaters as well as the Forest Kingfisher, Mistletoebird, Blue-winged Kookaburra and gorgeous Rainbow Bee-eater and hundreds more species can all be spotted here.

The scenic air transfers from Darwin add another dimension to this safari experience. The views of the Top End from the air are nothing short of breathtaking. bamurruplains.com

“wild buffalo roam en masse across lands Aboriginal Australians have called home for more than 40,000 years”

Trace the sea serpent’s route on The Warlu Way, Western Australia.

Western Australia

4

The Warlu Way *For road-trippers

The Warlu Way traces the spellbinding path of the mystical Warlu sea serpent, setting roadtrippers on a 2,480-kilometre journey to discover Indigenous Dreamtime legends in a world where the dramatic coastline and iconic Outback landscapes (think Red Dog) are a photographer’s dream.

A Warlu self-drive adventure kicks off in Exmouth, on Western Australia’s North West Cape (a two-and-a-half-hour flight or twoday drive from Perth). Along the way, adventurers can become one with nature: swimming with whale sharks, turtles and manta rays on Ningaloo Reef; fishing; snorkelling the region’s many other aweinspiring bays and reefs; or exploring the pristine Mackerel Islands, 22 kilometres offshore.

The Indigenous offerings along this stretch of coast seem neverending: trek through the gorges and chasms of Karijini National Park, where Aboriginal people once hunted and gathered; take a cruise around the stunning islands of the Dampier Archipelago; and be astounded by the outdoor art gallery of Burrup Peninsula, a unique ecological, archaeological and spiritually significant area, thought to contain the world’s oldest, largest and most important collections of petroglyphs and ancient rock carvings, some dating back 40,000 years. australiasnorthwest.com 37

experience

Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival is a cultural extravaganza.

Queensland

5

Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival

*For lovers of culture & dance

Every two years, the tiny town of Laura on Cape York Peninsula draws more than 500 Indigenous performers and artists from communities in every corner of the Cape to celebrate their ancient culture through dance and song. It is one of the most riveting festivals in Australia, with a different dance troupe taking to the ‘stage’ – a dirtfloored clearing in the middle of the wild Australian bush – every halfhour or so to demonstrate traditional dances that have been handed down through millennia.

The wildly beautiful, handmade traditional costumes; the fascinating array of body and face paintings; and the many stalls set up to educate and entertain visitors during this threeday extravaganza – all come together to form an unforgettable Indigenous experience that offers visitors insight into the world’s oldest living culture, a culture that many of the 5,000-plus attendees are fighting passionately to preserve.

The 35th Laura Dance Festival will run from Friday June 30 to Sunday July 2, 2017. lauradancefestival.com

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South Australia

6

Tickle Belly Hill: Yullu Wirru Cultural Experience

*For lovers of the great outdoors

Delve into Dreamtime legends and learn about the Adnyamathanha peoples of the Flinders Ranges at the Tickle Belly Hill function venue, which sits before the dramatic, ancient Pichi Richi Pass.

Blending into the beautiful landscape, the venue has been designed to resemble an Outback woolshed. The pillar-less, open-plan, corrugated-iron space, paved terraces

and surrounding fields make Tickle Belly Hill an ideal place for ‘getting back to nature’ and appreciating the grand scale of the Flinders Ranges.

During the Yullu Wirru (meaning ‘kingfisher’s wing’) Cultural Experience that is held here, guests join Adnyamathanha elders as they celebrate their culture through storytelling, song and dance. The experience also includes a delicious three-course gourmet ‘bush food’ dinner, tea and coffee, and return coach transfers from Port Augusta. ticklebelly.com.au

Tickle Belly Hill is an ideal place for ‘getting back to nature’ and appreciating the grand scale of the Flinders Ranges.

BUNDYI CULTURAL TOURS

Your gateway to Aboriginal Culture

a” ) . ha ing dler d Ya am d n Dre k Sa a r ig rr ush Ma e “B u B by m k (E wor t Ar

BE PART OF SOMETHING BIG! Register your interest for upcoming onshore and offshore job opportunities at www.monadelphous.com.au/careers

Image courtesy of Woodside.

TOGETHER WE GROW

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Online orders get 15% off, enter coupon code 172682.

business

NEWS&VIEWS Australia’s Mineral Wealth Explained A team of scientists from University of Tasmania and University of California has discovered why Australia has such rich deposits of ores such as copper, zinc and uranium.

Led by Emeritus Professor Ross Large from the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits (CODES) at the University of Tasmania, the team conducted research showing that some of the world’s richest ore deposits, such as copper, zinc, silver and uranium, were formed during the middle period of the Earth’s geological history, when oxygen levels in the atmosphere rose.

Between 2.3 billion and 1.8 billion years ago, this shift – known as the Great Oxygenation Event – facilitated the evolution of life as we know it today, and drove a marked shift in the

formation of mineral deposits. Instead of just iron, gold and nickel, deposits of zinc, silver, copper and uranium began to form, and some of Australia’s biggest and richest ore deposits, at Broken Hill (zinc-lead-silver), Olympic Dam (copper-uranium), Ranger (uranium) and Mount Isa (copperzinc-lead-silver) were created.

Professor Large and his team made the discovery by tracking the level of oxygen in the Earth’s ancient atmosphere using a University of Tasmania-developed laser-based analytical technology that helped to determine changes in the chemistry of pyrite (so-called ‘fool’s gold’) that grew in sea-floor muds billions of years ago.

MineX Returns to Outback Queensland Following a one-year hiatus so as to synchronise with its new biennial format, MineX returns this year to Mount Isa. One of Queensland’s biggest mining and engineering exhibitions, MineX is scheduled to run from May 16 to 18 at ‘the Isa’s’ Buchanan Park events complex.

The event promises something for everyone, with more than 100 indoor and open-air exhibits from a mix of local, regional, interstate, national and international suppliers. The latest and greatest technology will be on display, including one of the hottest new technologies in mining: Autonomous Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), otherwise known as drones, which will be prominent at MineX 2017.

First-time exhibitor, aerial videography and photography specialist Robert Mathieson of Outback Drones said, “Drone technology has come a long way in the last few years. We now can provide services to many industries, with a vast range of capabilities: aerial imagery, videography, safety and security inspections, incident imagery, SAR, aerial mapping, environmental and vegetation indexes, digital terrain

and surface modelling, to name a few.”

Traditionally, MineX’s first day is industry-only. President of organising body Commerce North West, Travis Crowther, said, “The industry-only day… allows industry representatives who would potentially be purchasing products and engaging services a one-stop shop to see everything that is available for their day-to-day operations or even special projects.”

Public entry to MineX is free. For more information, visit minexqld.com

Dial up the Chutzpah A newly released report by accounting and consulting firm KPMG – Dial up the Chutzpah: Lessons from Israel for Australian AgTech – urges Australian ag-tech start-ups to take a few leaves out of Israel’s innovation playbook.

The report highlights the gaps between Australia and Israel when it comes to funding agricultural technology. It argues that Israel – the second-most innovative country on the planet, according to The Global Competitiveness Report 2016-2017 from the World Economic Forum – benefits from closer links between universities and governments as well as by being more willing to take risks.

The report’s author and KPMG Australia’s head of ag-tech, Ben van Delden, also notes that in Israel, innovation has bipartisan government support, with a Chief Scientist who has survived five changes of Minister of Science and Technology. Israel, which has more start-ups per capita than any other country, also has a program in which businesses fund ‘incubators’ in their area of expertise.

While the Israeli government provides 85 per cent of the seed funding for the incubator, a company that commercialises the incubator’s research pays back the start-up grant and, if the product is licenced outside of Israel, the government receives a dividend.

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business

INNOVATION

A TAIL OF TWO FISH FARMS

We’re told to eat more fish for health reasons, but wild stocks globally have plummeted by 90 per cent since 1950, with several important species on the brink of extinction. Is aquaculture the way to keep fish on the menu and in our waters?

WORDS: DARREN BAGULEY he Heart Foundation’s website suggests, “Eat fish and seafood two to three times a week as part of a hearthealthy diet. Fish and seafood provide nourishing protein, selenium, zinc, iodine and vitamins A and D.” Fish is also low in fat and high in protein, and oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, Blue-eye Trevalla and sardines are high in omega-3 fats.

The problem is that wild fish populations in most of the world’s oceans are suffering a catastrophic decline. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), 85 per cent of global fish stocks

are “overexploited, depleted, or recovering from depletion”.

While Australia is in an enviable position compared to the rest of the world – the Queensland Government Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) 2015–16 Annual Report notes that the department “assessed 46 fish stocks in 2015, with 93 per cent found to have no sustainability concerns” – we’re faced with a quandary: how to eat more fish without harming our environment further.

Aquaculture, or fish farming, has been practised for thousands of years (it’s been around in Egypt

since 2,500BC), but is increasingly being seen as the ‘new’ way to meet growing demand for seafood while protecting wild fish stocks. Indeed, farmed fish now account for around 40 per cent of all the fish consumed in Australia.

Meeting some of that demand are two Australian companies: Murray Cod Australia and Huon Aquaculture. Both are at the forefront when it comes to innovation.

Murray Cod Australia, which sells its farmed Murray Cod under the Bidgee Fresh label, is the brainchild of New South Wales Riverina farmer Mat Ryan. According to Murray

“Aquaculture, or fish farming, has been practised for thousands of years (it’s been around in Egypt since 2,500BC) ...”

45

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Cod Australia (ASX: MCA) chairman Ross Anderson, “Mat wanted to get into a business with growing demand and shrinking supply, and along the way he’s developed a really high-quality product.

“Pond-grown Murray Cod, which is Australia’s premium native fish, has a beautiful clean white flesh with a firm texture, with no hint of muddy flavour. It’s the most exciting agriculture business I’ve ever seen.”

MCA grows the fish in cages sitting in dedicated ponds of river water; the nutrient-laden water is recycled for irrigation. As a result, MCA’s growing system is highly water-efficient – and has a low environmental footprint.

According to Ryan and Anderson, the farmed cod provides a return-permegalitre that’s around 10 times that of any grain crop.

MCA listed on the stock exchange late in 2016 and raised $10 million, which it has used to build a hatchery, 46

a nursery and grow-out farms, with the intention of creating a vertically integrated company able to control every aspect of production, Anderson explains. “We can tell you where a fish has come from and how it has been treated, which gives you a very high seal of quality.”

MCA currently produces 120 tonnes of farmed Murray Cod per year and Anderson says the company is increasing production by another 120 tonnes per year, with the goal of producing 1,000 tonnes annually within five years. Distributed through wholesalers McLaughlin’s Consolfish in Melbourne and Blue Harvest across the rest of Australia, Bidgee Fresh

Murray Cod is also the hero of dishes at the prestigious Quay, Park Hyatt and Pier One restaurants in Sydney.

Tasmania-based Huon Aquaculture has been in the aquaculture business since 1986 when sheep and cattle farmers Peter and Frances Bender were looking to diversify the family business.

Now, Frances says, the company has grown to the point where “we’re producing 20,000 tonnes (head on, gutted) of salmon and trout per year, employ 600 staff, and have just started commercial production of Yellow-tailed Kingfish”.

Huon Aquaculture is also a fully vertically integrated business and a

“According to Ryan and Aderson, the farmed cod provides a returnper-megalitre that’s around 10 times that of any grain crop.”

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leader when it comes to innovation.

“We control the process from egg to plate,” says Bender. “We have our own hatcheries and over the past three years, have invented some bespoke technology which has allowed us to move to high-energy sites where there is a lot of water movement. These are further offshore, so there is a lot of organisation required, but what we’re doing is actually farming, not fishing.

Fishing is extractive while farming, done properly, is regenerative. We’ve always been farmers first.”

Bender downplays just how innovative the company is. Between 2014 and 2015 Huon completely changed the way it operates. It

acquired the Ronja Huon, a well-boat that bathes the fish in fresh water to keep them healthy – and is the first ship of her kind anywhere in the world. Huon Aquaculture also closed down its shallowest inshore sites in the Huon River and moved into deeper waters, including higherenergy sites in Storm Bay, off the south-east coast of Tasmania – one of the wildest places on Earth.

To do this, Huon Aquaculture brought together three decades of farming knowledge and the newest technology available to build what the company calls ‘Fortress Pens’. The nets enclosing the pens are made of a similar material to that used to make

bulletproof vests, and are doublenetted to keep seals out and fish in.

The pens are built to be flexible so they can ride the offshore swell and withstand the oft-inclement weather of Storm Bay. This level of investment is even more impressive when you consider that Huon Aquaculture was, until recently, a privately owned company.

But as Frances Bender puts it, “We’ve never been interested in being commodity farmers – the core of our business is growing the best quality product by giving the fish the opportunity to have a good life, where they’re well fed and kept stress-free.”

There is no doubt that Australia must become more innovative as a nation if it is to prosper in the 21st century and beyond. And if we’re to feed the 9.9 billion people predicted to call this planet home by 2050 without degrading our natural environment further, the world must become more innovative, too.

ASX-listed companies such as Huon Aquaculture and Murray Cod Australia are attracting investors – and deservedly so, because they are facing this challenge head-on.

With Huon already worth $400m and Murray Cod newly listed on the ASX and growing, the fish-farming industry seems like a win/win for investors, producers and consumers.

More importantly, it promises to make an enormous contribution to the 21st-century global food race.

“Huon acquired a well-boat that bathes the fish in fresh water to keep them healthy – and is the first ship of her kind anywhere in the world” 49

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AGRIBUSINESS

COTTONING ON In the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) of southern NSW, cotton crops are booming under the mentorship of the region’s Southern Cotton gin and its innovative general manager, Kate O’Callaghan.

WORDS: ANNABELLE WARWICK

ince the gin opened in 2011, Kate, a local Leeton agronomist, has worked closely with local Riverina growers, strategically building their capacity through collaboration, education and innovation.

Cotton production has more than doubled in the Riverina over the past few years, with southern New South Wales cotton crops some of the highest-yielding in the country.

This is a win-win for the local gin: five seasons in, Southern Cotton has become one of the Riverina’s best-documented success stories, attracting national media coverage and winning accolades including the 2015 Telstra Australian Regional Business of the Year Award.

With the success of the region, the Whitton facility processed more than 190,000 bales in 2016, ginning 900,000-plus bales in five years.

The Upbeat Industry Kate takes no credit for creating such a positive story, saying this community-mindedness is industry-wide.

“What’s significant about the Australian cotton industry is that

it’s so collaborative,” she stresses.

“From the agronomists to the cotton-growers associations to Cotton Australia, and the growers themselves, everybody is super-keen to help nurture new growers.

“It’s the same in Northern NSW and Queensland, where cotton was traditionally grown: 1,900 people got together at the Australian Cotton Conference in Broadbeach last August, and so many young people came. It was a really dynamic event.

“The crop has a huge yield potential, so young people are getting excited about what a difference it can make to their bottom line. Cotton Australia is offering scholarships to undergraduates who undertake final-year research in cotton, and there are plenty of research and job opportunities. It’s an amazing industry to be involved in.”

Return to the Family Farm As well as attracting new youngsters as students, the industry is drawing born-and-bred young farmers into the fold.

“A lot are in their 20s and 30s, farming with their 50-year old dads,” says Kate. The average Australian

cotton farm is family-owned and family-operated, and this is a big part of why Kate is keen to encourage growth in the industry.

“I passionately love the Australian family farm,” she explains. “My dad’s family is all dryland wheat and sheep farmers out of Parkes. When I was two or three there was a drought, and mum and dad had to sell up and move to the city. We used to go back there on holidays, and I guess that’s why I got into agriculture.”

These days, Kate runs fat lambs and grows rice and cereals with husband Owen on their farm at Yanco, NSW, and couldn’t be happier.

“You can take the girl out of the bush,” she reminds, “but you can’t take the bush out of the girl!”

Blazing Trails Kate is well-respected in the traditionally male-dominated sector.

In 2014, she was a Telstra Business Women’s Awards finalist; that same year, she was recognised as one of Australia’s top 100 Women in Australian Agriculture.

But it wasn’t a straight road to get where she is today. “It’s been an exciting career when I look at it,”

“What’s significant about the Australian cotton industry is that it’s so collaborative ... everybody is super-keen to help nurture new growers” 50

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What is a Cotton Gin?

In a cotton gin, the cotton from each module is dried, then cleaning machines remove ‘trash’ – dirt, stalks, leaves – and gin stands separate cotton fibre from seed. The seed is blown into the seed shed, then sold for stockfeed or oil extraction. The lint is cleaned, rehydrated and pressed into bales, for shipment to merchant storage and international spinning mills.

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she says. It’s fun to reinvent yourself.”

Right from the start Kate was breaking new ground. “I’ve always enjoyed a challenge,” she says. “It was unusual for a girl to be doing ag when I went to school in the early ’80s.”

After graduating from university, Kate worked in irrigated pasture research for 10 years. Then, while her three sons were little, she worked part-time, “taking Japanese tourists around the farm, doing odd hours at a research station” and teaching people to grow feed crop lucerne.

“Then along came Novogen, and they were growing red clover for the hormone-replacement therapy market,” Kate recalls. “It was a dream job: I was working from home, in a crop that was very challenging, and I had a relationship with farmers all across Australia.” Kate was also writing quality documents for the pharmaceutical industry, tracing the clover from the paddock to the pill.

“At Novogen, the logistics manager taught me contract negotiation. Before that, I was technical but I didn’t understand agribusiness.”

Now, Kate’s combined knowledge of agronomy and agribusiness took her places. “By the time my boys were all at school, I had [red clover] crops in NSW, Victoria, South Australia and New Zealand, and a breeding program in Western Australia.”

Ten years later, Novogen sold its Australian red-clover production to

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an Italian company and Kate took a quality management role in the local CopRice stockfeed plant, where she started working across safety and production management.

“The operations manager taught me how to plan a manufacturing facility and address maintenance issues,” she says.

“Then the Southern Cotton directors came and said, did I want a challenge? It was going to take me back to working with farmers so, yes – I made the blind jump back to a company that had nothing.

“When I started, I didn’t know anything about cotton – I was Googling and downloading scientific documents. But I could understand the challenges of irrigation systems and ‘talk the talk’ to farmers on that agronomic level. “ Cottoning On The Southern Cotton directors – themselves local MIA cotton growers – hired the diversely skilled agronomist to nurture not just their new business but a new industry for the Murrumbidgee Valley, a region traditionally dominated by rice production.

Within a year, Kate had helped to transform their cotton-ginning business into a $26 million operation.

“They’ve let me run the race the way I want in terms of building the marketing program and running the

Cotton Industry Facts • In an average year, Australian growers produce enough cotton to clothe 500 million people.

• Forget Egyptian cotton sheets: Australia is right up there. Both countries produce the highest quality cottons in the world.

• More than 90 per cent of Australia’s cotton is exported.

• Australia produces just three per cent of the world’s cotton but is the third largest exporter of it, behind the USA and India.

• The major buyers of Australian cotton are China (68 per cent), Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, Bangladesh and Japan.

• The average Australian cotton farm employs 6 to 7 people.

• Many Australian cotton farmers diversify – dedicating, on average, 42 per cent of their farm area to native vegetation; supplementing cotton with other crops including wheat, chickpeas and sorghum; and grazing sheep and cattle.

• Cotton and its by-products are used to make everything from bank notes to margarine, rubber and medical supplies.

• The fibre from one 227-kilogram cotton bale can produce 215 pairs of jeans, 250 single bed sheets, 1,200 T-shirts, 2,100 pairs of boxer shorts, 3,000 nappies, 4,300 pairs of socks or 680,000 cotton balls.

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tools, doing speaking engagements and having an education arm of our business,” she says.

“The directors have been supportive. My passion is their passion – to build up the industry, [which] was only 18,000 hectares when they built the gin. The only way it was going to survive was if we nurtured new growers. So they’re very happy.

The gin has definitely enabled new local growers in a practical way. “Now we’ve established manufacturing infrastructure to support the industry in the MIA, cotton is becoming a natural choice,” she says. “Cotton production in the valley has gone up every year, to more than 46,000 hectares in 2016.”

“In 2016 there were crops of 14 and 15 cotton bales per hectare, which is astounding – 10 a hectare

54

is great. This year, it’s back to about 42,000 hectares because it was a cold, wet spring, but there will be 10-baleper-hectare crops; still a great result.”

Cutting-edge Cotton Technology Southern Cotton uses state-ofthe-art technology for cleaning, humidification, processing, quality measurement and data traceability.

Kate had a hand in honing the tracking technology, using her quality-management experience and working with IT consultants to develop software that traces the unique RFID number attached to each module-wrap from paddock to bale to buyer.

“Each number has data attached: the latitude and longitude of the picker in the paddock; the date, time, farm, field and variety,” she explains.

“In today’s world, people want to know where their product comes from, and we can do that with certainty.”

Kate recalls how the owners of a sheet company approached her at the Australian Cotton Conference. “They knew the cotton for their sheets had come from [Southern Cotton owner] Larry Walsh’s paddock.

“And then, given that Australian cotton farmers are the most efficient in the world, with the best management practices, consumers love to know they can trace that product all the way back to a sustainable Australian farm.”

Educating End Consumers Kate is passionate about the quality, sustainability and excellence of agriculture in the MIA region. As well as keeping growers current by

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bringing together industry experts at their annual cotton breakfast, and posting resources on their social media – Southern Cotton produce consumer-facing videos and factsheets about all crops and irrigation in the valley – as well as conducting tours of the gin.

“Inform one person and they’ll inform others,” says Kate.

The two biggest misperceptions around cotton growing that Kate is keen to shift are that chemical sprays are used – “We’re using the new, genetically modified varieties that don’t require as many sprays” – and that cotton uses excessive water.

More Crop Per Drop “People think that cotton uses a lot of water; it certainly doesn’t,” Kate says. “It uses eight to 10 megalitres a hectare in this valley, compared to

other irrigated alternatives that may use an average of 12 to 20 megalitres per hectare. It’s not a thirsty crop.”

“In general, the growers in the MIA have amazing irrigation set-ups on their farms, where the water’s recycled; where they’re only using the minimal amount of water they need on the paddock,” Kate explains.

“Year on year, Valley farmers are increasing their efficiency, watering across rice and row crops and tree crops and horticulture.”

According to Cotton Australia, Australian irrigated cotton-lint yields are the highest of any major cottonproducing country in the world, meaning Australia’s cotton growers produce ‘more crop per drop’ – about three times the average.

Most of Australia’s cotton is grown under the ‘flood irrigation’ systems that have improved water-

“People think that cotton uses a lot of water; it certainly doesn’t” saving capacity dramatically in the past 20 years. In the MIA, growers mainly use ‘siphon flood irrigation’ and ‘bankless channel’ irrigation techniques.

Kate says, “With certainty of water allocation, the future of cotton and irrigated crops in the MIA will be bright.”

Hence her drive to pass this information on, to school students especially. “It’s a good feeling, because I can also educate them about the job space and potential roles in the cotton industry.”

Irrigation Styles Siphon flood irrigation: “At Southern Cotton, the cotton is on beds, so siphons are laid between the beds and the water falls away to a large drain,” Kate explains.

Through the bank: A siphon-less irrigation system whereby pipes are inserted through the channel banks, with ‘gates’ to control water flow into the furrows.

Bankless channels: A system whereby the head ditch ‘overflows’, releasing water throughout the paddock. Excess water then drains back into the ditch and travels on to the next bay.

Drip irrigation: Typically, in sandy soils, drip infrastructure (pipes and dripper mechanisms) is laid beneath the surface, delivering water directly to plants’ roots.

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WORDS: ROWAN CROSBY

It’s 2017, but financial advisers still aren’t required legally to give you conflict-free advice. In the face of almost-weekly banking scandals, consumers are slowly waking up, taking back control of their finances and in the process saving hundreds of thousands of dollars on their investments. ustralians are increasingly concerned about their finances and looking to secure their financial futures by entrusting them to financial advisers. More than 2.4 million Aussies actively use a financial adviser, according to Sydney research company Investment Trends. This represents around 20 per cent of adult Australians – and that number is growing every year.

Daniel Brammall, president of the Independent Financial Advisers Association of Australia (IFAAA), an organisation that aims to offer investors a safe alternative, says, “Anyone interested in making their future happen ‘on purpose’ rather than leaving it to Lady Luck will benefit from consulting a financial planner to help them think through the issues and chart a course.”

However, as the industry evolves and regulation slowly catches up, there are still significant issues within the traditional model used by the majority of financial advisers – issues that hurt consumers.

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Impartial Advice

Conflicts of interest arise where advisers convince clients to put their money into certain managed investment funds that might not necessarily suit those consumers but offer significant benefits to their advisers, in the form of commissions paid to them by the funds.

“The laws in this country don’t (yet) require a financial adviser to be impartial and free of conflicts,” Brammall explains.

“No government in the last 30-odd years has been able to successfully ban conflicts of interest. Such is the power of the banks and insurance companies, who have a vested interest in keeping the status quo,” he says.

Indeed, over the past few years we’ve seen a host of banking scandals tarnish the reputation of the sector, with bigname banks such as the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac, ANZ, NAB and Macquarie Bank among the main offenders.

Hidden Fees

In the same way that compounding is an investor’s ally, fees are an investor’s enemy: when you start compounding your fees, they can become significant very quickly.

When you see a traditional financial adviser, you’re facing two different types of fees.

1. Adviser fees: charged by the advisers themselves for fund management.

As a general rule, an adviser charges a fee of 1% of your total investment. So if you have a $1 million portfolio, an adviser would typically charge you $10,000. And while that looks like a small amount on paper, it becomes significant over the span of 30 years.

2. Fund fees: costs charged by the funds associated with running those funds.

An adviser will invest their client’s money in either an active managed fund or a passive managed fund.

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The goal of a passive fund is simply to follow the overall stock market. You might also hear it called an ‘index fund’, as it tracks a market index. A passive fund charges a lower fee – generally around 0.5% per year.

An active fund aims to outperform the overall stock market. As a result, an active fund will charge a higher fee for the management service, usually around 2% per year. And because active funds charge higher fees, they can offer higher commissions to financial advisers in a bid to get them to recommend these funds to their consumer clients.

A False Advantage

If your adviser has been talking to you about setting up an active fund, do your research. Interestingly, you’ll find that the vast majority of high-fee active funds underperform their passive counterparts.

A recent study by S&P Dow Jones Indices revealed that 86% of active funds, on average, haven’t beaten their passive counterparts over the past decade.

This fact lies at the heart of the ‘noconflicts’ problem, with financial advisers being incentivised to put clients into managed investments. Many advisers associated with large providers are also encouraged to invest clients’ funds in their own company’s products. So very quickly, the line between what’s right for you and what’s right for the adviser can get blurred.

In 2009, financal industry regulator, the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC), went on record saying that the typical financial planner acts as a “sales force for financial product manufacturers” and that advisers are “a product pipeline”. The ASIC contended that commissions and product affiliations are conflicts of interest that “distort the quality of advice” and should be banned.

In that same year, the IFAAA was established to guide Australians on how to find financial advisers who practice without incentives and conflicts of interest.

“It makes good sense to work with someone who operates at a high standard

and has no conflicts of interest clouding their judgement,” says Brammall.

The Gold Standard

Adhering to the IFAAA Gold Standard of Independence™ for financial advisers in Australia means that the adviser has no association with any product manufacturer, does not receive commissions and does not charge asset fees.

While this is not a guarantee of perfect advice, it does take meaningful conflicts of interest off the table and free up the adviser to be a professional rather than a salesperson.

“Five years ago there was no such thing as the ‘Gold Standard of Independence’ and so consumers didn’t have a choice,” says Brammall.

“Now they do – so if this Gold Standard is available, why would anyone settle for less?”

If you’re seeking truly independent financial advice, you can now find dozens of independent advisers nationwide at ifaaa.com.au

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LAW AND COMPLIANCE

Stringent legislation is part of the Australian mining landscape – and while the burden of regulation is not going away any time soon, differences between states are being harmonised.

WORDS: DARREN BAGULEY

hen it comes to law and compliance in the mining industry, there’s a big difference between exploration and operation. Mining companies seeking new deposits are governed by the mining legislation of each state and, to a lesser extent, by state environmental and workplace health and safety (WH&S) legislation.

Once a mining company starts to develop a mine and take it through to production, that company will be subject to WH&S, environmental, heritage and planning legislation at the state level. If the project is a significant one, it may also be subject to federal government environmental legislation – as anyone who has followed the ongoing saga of Adani’s Carmichael mine will know.

While the Australian mining industry generally accepts regulation relating to environment, heritage and WH&S, there is frustration about the numerous additional regulations that

must be navigated when developing and operating mines in Australia.

According to Andrew Komesaroff, a partner and energy and resources practice leader at Colin Biggers & Paisley Lawyers, “Mining is a global industry and mining companies all over the world do a lot of analysis along the lines of ‘If we have a deposit of X in Australia, Indonesia, Chile et cetera, how long is our time to production [and what resources are we going to have to put in to make it happen]?’,” he says.

“Because of the focus on time to production, there are concerns that Australia makes it harder to exploit a deposit than other countries.

[According to the industry,] Australia needs to make sure it retains its share of mining investment, so the frustration is [that] there is no ‘onestop shop’ where a company can go to start developing a mine in Australia.”

This view is echoed by the Minerals Council of Australia. In

its 2014 report Minerals industry priorities for regulatory reform, the MCA states: “Minimising the regulatory burden on industry is not the same as minimising regulation itself. Australia’s minerals industry recognises its obligation to act in a way that assists government in maintaining efficient, stable and risk-based regulatory frameworks … The minerals industry supports the principle of minimum effective regulation, whereby regulation can both meet its policy objectives and do so at least cost.”

It’s not all doom and gloom, however. While some parts of the industry claim “a mining company doesn’t care where it digs up its resources”, it’s important to remember that Australia is a firstworld country: politically stable, with an educated workforce and good infrastructure. Some costs, such as those of wages and legislative compliance, may be high, but the

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“Because of the focus on time to production, there are concerns that Australia makes it harder to exploit a deposit than other countries”

sovereign risk is very low – which is not the case in many of the world’s developing countries.

The industry has had a win recently with the harmonisation of WH&S legislation across New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and South Australia – all our big mining states, with the exception of Western Australia.

“Safety is paramount for the mining industry so it’s not surprising there has been a strong emphasis on harmonisation,” Komesaroff says.

“The advantage of harmonisation is efficiency: companies don’t have to ‘reinvent the wheel’ in each state.

“It’s a good example of large mining companies working with government to achieve the goal of getting a uniform set of safety laws across Australia – as opposed to environmental laws, which remain state-based.”

One interesting trend in mining not yet impacting legislation is that

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of automation – and its corollary, remote working. Komesaroff believes it is only a matter of time before the legislation catches up.

“We’re seeing technology such as driverless trucks, trains, drill rigs, et cetera impacting the mainstream; there will be a major step change in the industry,” he says.

“For hundreds of years, there has been close physical contact between people working on a mine site and what is happening in the pit or shaft.

Now, companies like BHP, Rio Tinto and Roy Hill are operating more and more aspects of their operations from control centres in Perth, but with driverless trucks and trains, et cetera.

“Things will go wrong,” he contends. “The worst-case scenario is that a person is killed or injured – but even if it’s just property damage, there will still be an issue.

“The legal changes, by and large, will follow, not lead what is happening commercially and

technologically, and it will be interesting to see how that pans out.”

Automation and remote sensing is also impacting legislative compliance, whether it is with WH&S or environmental law.

Remote sensing is being deployed to monitor haul-truck drivers’ levels of fatigue, for example. Sensors are also being used to measure the environmental impacts of mining operations, such as vehicle emissions, dust, and water contamination.

Using such technology not only helps mine sites comply with environmental legislation and avoid fines; it also saves mining companies money.

“Using technology to comply with legal obligations is kind of obvious,” Komesaroff says.

“Any sensible company will use technology if it does a better job and saves them money. And at a time when commodity prices are down, it would just be crazy not to.”

Experience the difference

From the snug sheets on your bed to the carefully selected ingredients our chefs use. It’s the little details that make a big difference, and we make sure we get them right from the minute you wake up and start your day. Civeo has your workforce accommodation covered.

... because we care about the little things.

business

SPECIAL FEATURE

SANDVIK SETS THE BAR WITH FIRST BATTERYTRAMMED MINING JUMBO he all-new battery-trammed Sandvik DD422iE mining delivers productivity, accuracy and reliability, reducing operating costs while also improving environment, health and safety.

100 PERCENT ELECTRIC TRAMMING By using electric energy from an onboard battery during tramming, Sandvik DD422iE produces zero emissions while maneuvering between headings, improving health and safety for miners working underground.

DD422iE’s electric engine helps improve mine ventilation requirements while also reducing associated diesel logistics and maintenance expenses.

The jumbo’s intelligent power management system helps customers to meet ever increasing productivity requirements, despite often limited underground electric

power capacities. Coupled with its smart battery charging system, Sandvik DD422iE helps customers maximise utilisation of their mine’s electrical infrastructure.

EASY, FLEXIBLE & SAFE RECHARGING The revolutionary Sandvik driveline technology in the DD422iE uses the mine’s electric infrastructure to recharge the battery during the drilling cycle. The battery even recharges while the DD422iE is tramming downhill, using energy generated by the braking system. Even if there’s a power outage, customers can count on the jumbo being as charged as possible.

Equipped with a multi-voltage compliant system that gives customers freedom to move the drill from one country to another, the jumbo operates easily in different networks ranging

For more information contact: Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology General Enquiries 1300 1726 3845 – info.smc-au@sandvik.com – mining.sandvik.com

64

from 380V – 1000V, and both 50 and 60Hz. The molten salt (sodium-nickel chloride) battery technology used in Sandvik DD422iE reduces the risk of fire and is regarded as a safer system for underground mining use. The longlasting pack will power the drill efficiently throughout its lifetime.

MORE UPTIME WITH 55% LESS HOSING The new Sandvik DD422iE is available with a less-hose boom option that uses 55 percent less hosing than its predecessor, reducing hoses chafing on rock faces and wearing out quickly. The less-hose boom option reduces the length of hosing from 240 to 110 meters, lessening the exposure to potential damage. With a reduced failure rate, more uptime is gained and fewer hours are spent on maintenance.

THE DIFFERENCE IS ELECTRIFYING SANDVIK DD422iE - FIND OUT MORE AT MINING.SANDVIK.COM

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SPECIAL FEATURE

5 MUST-HAVE OPTIONS

FOR YOUR LOADER SCALES ADDING loader scales to your loader is a productivity must. By ensuring each load is right the first time, every time, loader scales are proven to dramatically reduce trips to the stockpile, so you’ll save on fuel, reduce machine and tyre wear and increase efficiency on every job.

But not all loader scales are created equal.

There are some important features that equate to even bigger benefits, so make sure you look out for the following options before buying: 1. Dynamic weighing capability To really save you time and get accurate results, look for a system that can keep up with the machine. It sounds simple, but in order to get reliable repeatability and accuracy you need scales that can weigh continuously, whether the machine is moving or stationary. Most systems on the market do not do this. Inclinometers and accelerometers, in engineer speak, translate

to a system that can stay accurate in rough terrain, at speed, and that can do so on slopes of up to +/- 10 degrees.

2. Oil temperature compensation Loaders are doing the machine equivalent of interval training all day, every day.

Heavy lifting, cardio to and from the stockpile, and times where it’s idling lead to fluctuations in oil temperature.

This can lead to fluctuations in weight accuracy, unless you have a system that can compensate for it.

3. The option to trade off the weight The capability to add ‘Trade Approved’ functionality to your loader scales means you can transact from the weight data on the system. A handy in-cab printer means you can print results instantly or, alternatively, send and receive job information to and from the office using wi-fi.

4. A reversing camera option Increase safety and reduce clutter in the cab by transforming your loader scale indicator into a reversing camera screen!

The Loadmaster Alpha 100 system by RDS Technology includes video input capability so you don’t need to install a second screen.

5. The flexibility of an open-source platform Last but not least, make sure the system you invest in can handle everything you need, including support for a wide range of buckets, forks and other attachments, the ability to work with wheeled, telescopic or tractor-style machines and, importantly, the option to interface directly with your ERP system.

Position Partners offers all the above features and more, with local hire, support and training Australia-wide.

Get in touch today on 1300 867 266 or visit positionpartners.com.au

“To get reliable repeatability and accuracy you need scales that can weigh continuously, whether the machine is moving or stationary.

Most systems on the market do not do this” 66

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MINING SOLUTIONS

SURFACE. UNDERGROUND. SUPPORT.

Hastings Deering works closely with our mining customers to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions that focus on improving productivity, lowering costs and achieving safer work-places. Hastings Deering also offers something others cannot: the strength and intelligence of Caterpillar and world-class technology enabled solutions through one single, integrated and trusted source.

VISIT US AT HASTINGSDEERING.COM.AU / EDGE

business

SPECIAL FEATURE

WHEN GOING THAT EXTRA MILE

MEANS 75,000KM A YEAR YOU could liken Grant Samson to the

travelling salesmen of the old days but it’s not a vacuum cleaner he’s sold you – more likely, it’s a motor grader or a wheel loader.

When you’re calling someone on a satellite phone, you know they’re covering some bitumen, but hitting the road for Hastings Deering means Samson does more than go the extra mile – he’s likely to travel upwards of 75,000 kilometres every year, covering some of the Sunshine State’s most remote communities, from Birdsville to the Gulf, from the west to the east.

Samson has been Hastings Deering’s local Cat man for 26 years, so you’d think he’d be best known for the black and yellow – but ask anyone from ‘the Curry’ to Croydon, and they’ll tell you this bloke’s true blue.

Out here, that’s no corny moniker but a word that crops up with everyone who talks about Grant Samson.

Samson’s contact book reads like a who’s who of the construction and pastoral industries. He rattles off names – legends in the bush, like Birdsville’s Nell and David Brook, and one of the nation’s biggest private cattle-station owner duos, Alister and Jo McClymont – not by their net worth but by the machines he sold them, when and where.

The Brooks may be best known for running 40,000 certified-organic cattle on 3.49 million hectares but to Samson, they’re the owners of a Cat 140H II Motor Grader, delivered last year to Nell because David was away.

Ir’s a similar story for the McClymonts: “I delivered a D6T dozer to Burleigh station, in the Gulf country near Richmond, earlier this year,” Samson says. “I’ve known him 26 years and that was the first machine I’ve sold

him. We had a laugh about that. Sometimes it takes a while to make a sale.”

The size of Samson’s territory may be extraordinary but to him, it’s just his patch.

The expert country driver has plied these roads so long the remoteness is in his blood. Even the Hastings Deering brass reckon that if they didn’t employ Samson, he’d find some other way to be a part of these communities.

“My story is pretty much like many of the people you meet out here,” Samson says.

“I thought I would come for about three or four years and that was 26 years ago. I know so many people, and most of them are like family. It’s always been about relationships, and about finding common ground.”

What makes Samson’s story more than just that of another guy travelling long distances in the name of work is that he’s famous for phoning customers before heading out to see if there are any necessities he can bring them, from fresh bread and milk to medications.

“Nothing surprises me. If someone knows I am coming out and asks for something, I just make sure I can get it. It started off with me grabbing some bread and the local papers for a customer here and there. Now, if someone needs something, they all say, ‘Ring Grant’.”

In Richmond, Samson has been working with the Shire Council’s workshop manager Phillip ‘Chappy’ Chappell since he started with the council as a machine operator 26 years ago. In November last year, the Council took delivery of a Cat 966K Wheel Loader.

“As a machine operator I would see Grant as I came in and out of the workshops,” Chappy says. “What you see is what you get.

People can sniff out if you are not genuine.

He treats everyone like gold. He is always

bringing something out for us – nothing is too much of a bother. He’s so devoted to Cat that we have played a few tricks on him, too. One time, Grant brought his mower out ’cos he was having trouble with it, so we painted it Cat yellow and replaced the Rover sign with Cat, so now he mows his lawn with a Cat mower.

“Grant brings out the best in people; everyone around here knows him and stops to say ‘hello’ when he is in town. Within his role at Hastings Deering, he will support our field days, sponsor the dirt bikes and the fossil festival.”

In Normanton, Carpentaria Shire Council workshop/fleet manager Nathan Mercer tells a similar story.

“Its just his way of treating people: Grant loves what he does and when someone loves what they do, they make life so much easier for everyone,” Mercer says. “He does go that extra mile. He’s genuine. Nothing is all about business with him: he asks about the family, how things are going. It is not just a business relationship; it becomes a friendship.”

The internet may be finding a place in remote outposts, but Samson says arriving at ‘smoko’ with a wagon full of goodies and sitting down, face to face, with someone will always maintain the integrity and the spirit of the bush.

“My wife understands that better than anyone,” says Samson. “I’ve been bogged, caught out by flood waters, and have learnt to read the conditions of when and when not to travel – but it is always worth it. People are always pleased to see you, especially in the places where they don’t get many visitors. The day I wake up and groan that I have to be on the road is the day I give it all up.”

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Distance Education A Legitimate Alternative to Boarding School •

Distance Education is ideal for school students who live remotely.

•

Your child can complete school work from your farm, home or any convenient location.

•

Unlike home schooling, distance education students are taught by our qualified and accredited teachers, not parents. Parents play the role of supervisor, not teacher.

•

Students have 24/7 access to online courses, so they can complete school work around their schedule.

•

New enrolments are accepted at any time during the year.

Learn how you could give your child a great education while saving on boarding school fees at accde.edu.au.

education Insights into some of the best education institutions in the country.

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D w to ire av To ct a o fl m ila wo igh aj bl o t or e m s ci fro ba tie m s. m os

t

We Understand...

the emotional and financial commitment of being away from family and friends is a difficult one...

St Ursula’s College is an Independent, Catholic Day and Boarding School for girls in Years 7 to 12.

Rich in tradition and strong in leadership, we understand the challenges facing boarder families and we are here to help wherever we can, and our smaller boarding community means your daughter is just as special to us as she is to you.

Contact us today to see how we can enrich your daughter’s schooling experience.

- Bursaries now available -

Open Day 38 Taylor Street - TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 Phone: 07 4632 7611 Fax: 07 4638 5634 Email: enrolments@st-ursula.qld.edu.au

Please join us on

Sunday, 28th May 2017 to experience all the St Ursula’s College has to offer your daughter.

See our website for more information.

www.st-ursula.qld.edu.au

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Providing her complete Growth and development in state of the art facilities magine a boarding school where your daughter is just as special to us as she to you and where STEM and academic result are just as important as fun and friendship. We invite you to Imagine no longer, and take some time to visit us at St Ursula’s College Toowoomba, where we not only provide an environment for your daughter which contributes to academic results, but a space where she can grow into a young woman prepared for a wondrous future.

Rich in leadership and strong in our Ursuline traditions, the College provides subjects and learning experiences in specialist facilities equipped with the latest technology, catering for the individual needs and interests of all girls. Offering state-of- the- art media, creative and dramatic arts facilities (including professional dance areas), high tech science laboratories, a vast

range of sport choices as well as VET and hospitality options, you can be assured that your daughter will be encouraged to achieve in all areas of her education. Learning enrichment support and teacher tutoring is also on-hand should your daughter be in need of some extra assistance.

At St Ursula’s College, we understand the emotional and financial commitment of being away from family and friends is a difficult one and as such, we provide a safe, close-knit boarding community staffed by a team of committed, experienced boarding house supervisors, who impart the love and support your daughter needs, especially if this is her first time away from home.

We can assure you though, that being an ‘Ursie Boarder’ is not all hard work, because we take the time to get to know your daughter’s interests outside of

Op held en Day of M on Su is bein nd g ay to sh – we w ay, 28th o ow y uld Ur plac sula’s is ou why love e for the p St y seco nda our dau erfect ry e duc ghter’s atio n.

school, engaging her in fun activities including regular supervised shopping trips as well as expeditions to the beach and theme parks during our boarder weekends.

There is no need to worry about her nutritional wellbeing either, as along with her academic and emotional wellbeing, our team of in-house chefs will provide healthy, delicious home-style meals to keep her nutritionally sustained. You can be assured she is in good hands at St Ursula’s.

We invite you to contact our Registrar on 07 4632 7611 or via email at enrolments@st-ursula.qld.edu.au to find out how St Ursula’s College can enrich your daughter’s schooling experience.

Additional information regarding our curriculum, fee structure and Macbook Air computer program is available on our website www.st-ursula.qld.edu.au.

73

The school of

choice for

Learning | Co-curricular | The Arts Agriculture | Boarding Downlands College has a unique history, beautiful surrounds, a distinctive spirituality and unequalled character. Our 38 hectare campus, located 20km from the Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport, is a great place for siblings to grow up together, forming memories that last a lifetime.

W h e re y o u r

h e a r t finds a home

T: 07 4690 9500 | 72 Ruthven St, Toowoomba | A Missionaries of the Sacred Heart College INDEPENDENT |

CATHOLIC | COEDUCATIONAL | YEARS 5-12 | DAY & BOARDING

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Downlands, where your heart finds a home s a Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC) College, Downlands culture is one which fully embraces all aspects of the MSC Ethos, including love, concern, compassion, understanding and respect.

Downlanders are encouraged to be people of heart, creating a friendly and inclusive school community to which families, staff and Past Students are proud to belong.

The best thing about being here is mateship. From my first day there has always been someone there to help me or even to just give me a friendly smile.

I have also learnt how to express myself through different activities, and to not be afraid to stand up for what I believe in, or to try any activity.”

Downlands Student – Corrie Aitsi, Year 11

“I began my journey through Downlands College as a day student after my family and I relocated to Toowoomba from Brisbane. My parents chose Downlands for me as it was the preferred school in the area.

When I started at Downlands I had a bit of a chip on my shoulder. This was ironed out over time through the combination of good classmates and good staff, including Mr John Elders, my First

“My sister and I joined Downlands in 2014 from Papua New Guinea. My family picked the school for us because there was a lot of choice within the cocurricular and academic spheres of the College. Throughout my time here I have participated in a variety of sporting teams including netball, soccer, touch, girls’ rugby 7s and basketball.

Past Student – Garrick Morgan (1986-1988)

XV rugby coach, who was passionate about the College and its students. I also found that the co-educational environment gave me balance, especially coming from a single-sex school.

Overall, I believe my experience at Downlands made me a better person.

They were the best days of my life and I am now happy to be back at the College in my role as Director of Rugby Coaching.”

Parent – Megan Reimann, Mother Of Will, Year 5

“We are a new family to Downlands in 2017. My son started this year in the Years 5/6 composite classes. I am amazed, so far, at how nourishing and caring everyone has been, and how dedicated the staff have been in meeting so many new faces and overcoming obstacles. We are excited at the opportunities Downlands has to offer!”

Downlands College is a Years 5 – 12, independent, Catholic, coeducational, day and boarding school, located in the picturesque region of the Darling Downs in Queensland. The College offers a broad curriculum, diverse co-curricular opportunities, on-site rural centre and a quality pastoral care program built on the Ethos of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC).

We invite you to experience the Downlands community for you and your family, please book a personalised tour with Enrolments Coordinator, Ms Merilyn Rohde via phone, 61+ 07 46 909500, or email, enrolments@downlands.qld.edu.au.

Above from left: The new Years 5 and 6 students are enjoying the opportunities at Downlands; Garrick Morgan presents student Angelo Deng, with his First XV jersey; Corrie is enjoying the community she is a part of at Downlands.

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St Margaret’s PRE-PREP - YEAR 12

BOARDING YEARS 5-12

Interviewing now for 2018 to 2020 entry From Athol Station to Womblebank, and Allandale to Whitwell, the daughters of rural and remote Australia are at the very heart of the St Margaret’s boarding story.

Discover why St Margaret’s has been the first choice in boarding for generations of outback families for more than 120 years.

DISCOVER the DIFFERENCE!

www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au

11 Petrie Street Ascot QLD 4007 • T: (07) 3862 0777 • E: admissions@stmargarets.qld.edu.au St Margaret’s School Council Ltd ABN: 69069684019 CRICOS Code: 00511K

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Trading Places hile our boarders are snuggled up in their term time ‘home away from home’, in the heart of St Margaret’s Ascot campus, Head of Boarding Lesa Fowler could quite possibly be making herself comfortable in their homes, catching up with their parents and making acquaintances with their pets.

It’s all in a day’s work for Lesa, who regularly visits the parents of boarders. The more remote the location, the more often she will find herself not in the local motel, but staying in the boarders’ homes.

“I truly love visiting our students’ homes; it helps me get a better understanding of and appreciation for where they live and what home life is like for them,” says Lesa.

“The girls love it, too! Sometimes you’re actually sleeping in their bedroom, while they are back at school. Many of them have pets they miss terribly, so they are thrilled

when you get back to school with a picture of their pup and just the fact that you ‘met’ their favourite animal helps to cement those important connections,” she says.

St Margaret’s currently has 170 boarders across Years 6 to 12. All boarders are fulltime, with about 80 per cent of the girls from rural areas.

Lesa travels across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory and sometimes overseas. In 2017, she will visit Darwin, Goondiwindi, St George, Emerald, Mt Isa and Barcaldine, on the heels of last year’s trips to Moree, Narrabri, Glen Innes, Longreach, Alpha, Charleville, Roma, Mitchell and Toowoomba.

Lisa Magoffin of Ashra Downs at Muttaburra is the mother of two current St Margaret’s boarders and one former boarder. She says Lesa has visited the family six times. Lisa often assists with organising these visits, and will also drive

around calling in on other nearby families with Lesa.

“What’s really important to us is that we keep the boarding staff familiar with us – it’s important they get to know us in our own environment, so they have a greater understanding of what home is like for our girls,” Lisa says.

Lisa describes one of Lesa’s visits a few years ago. “The land was really barren and she could see that, and feel empathy for the families and the difficulties we have in keeping the kids at school.

“The boarding community at St Margaret’s is central to the fabric of the school. The girls feel valued, knowing the boarding house is considered a very important part of the school, not just an add-on. A large proportion of the boarding girls do live remotely, which adds to the wonderful atmosphere and environment of the boarding house,” she says.

“The boarding community at St Margaret’s is central to the fabric of the school. The girls feel valued, knowing the boarding house is considered a very important part of the school, not just an add-on”

Above from left: Head of Boarding Lesa Fowler (far left) on one of her many visits to the homes of St Margaret’s boarders; While the boarding staff gets to know the boarders’ hometowns, the boarders are busy discovering city life.

77

The right move for young men

OPEN DAY

Saturday 20 May, 10am - 2pm

Register at nudgee.com

specialfeature

Nudgee College rewrites Queensland GPS history t was a stellar season for St Joseph’s Nudgee College Rowing’s First VIII. Nudgee College Rowing rewrote the history books this season, when its First VIII crew won its fifth consecutive Head of the River title, and in doing so retained the O’Connor Cup. Held on Wyaralong Dam at Beaudesert, the crew powered down the 2000m course in a time of 5:54.05.

During the race the Nudgee College First VIII overtook The Southport School at the 1000m mark to take the lead. They managed to stay in front until the end to win by 1.7 seconds. Gregory Terrace placed third in the prestigious schoolboys open eight division one final.

The winning crew consisted of cox Isaac Schmidt, stroke Ben Molineux, Charlie Mitchell, Lukas Matic, Connor Gordon,

Robert Sinclair, Patrick Long, Riley Blythe, and William Scott in bow seat.

They were coached by John Bowes and Liam Lewers. Coach Bowes has been at the helm for all five of Nudgee College’s Head of the River victories; an unprecedented achievement by any coach in more than 95 years of Queensland GPS Rowing.

“It took a lot of courage for the boys to back themselves the way they did to hang onto the lead,” John said.

“This year’s crew knew about the recent successes in rowing at the College, and thought about it often, however it was said to them they had to create their own legacy.

“There was no pressure. They were the underdogs.”

Extraordinarily, Year 12 student Isaac Schmidt has been the coxswain of the 1st VIII crew since 2015, making him one of

only three people to be listed three times on the O’Connor Cup for being part of a 1st VIII winning crew.

The Nudgee College rowers also retained the Old Boys’ Cup for the fourth consecutive year, which is awarded based on the results of all crews competing for their school at Head of the River.

“To win the O’Connor Cup and Old Boys’ cup consecutively for so many years is truly a fantastic accomplishment,” said Principal Peter Fullagar.

“It’s certainly made the Nudgee College community very proud, and it’s a great achievement for a College that has been rowing for less than 20 years.”

The First VIII’s performance, both on and off the water, is reflective of the incredible phenomenon that is Nudgee College Spirit.

The Nudgee College First VIII crew and Captain of Boats, Harrison Cannon, with the O’Connor Cup and Old Boys’ Cup after winning the 2017 GPS Head of the River.

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Frensham is full STEAMm ahead ... ew facilities and inspirational teachers have continued to support Frensham’s high rate of student involvement in Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology - a contrast to the concern internationally about girls being under-represented in High School Mathematics and Sciencebased subjects.

Testament to Frensham’s innovative curriculum and resources applied to ‘STEMfocused’ studies, were the year 12 ‘Top Ten in Course’ achievements across Design and Technology and Agriculture in the 2016 Higher School Certificate; as well as first placing in day one of the NSW Science and Engineering Challenge, by Year 10.

What is STEAMm? At Frensham, we link STEM education to core student involvement in the Arts and in Music – hence the A and the extra ‘m’ we add to the familiar acronym.

In a world that is now so dependent on technological innovation and scientific discovery, it is essential that Frensham students leave school with the skills and motivation to undertake the many related professions linked to what are widely known as STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) with equal emphasis on interpretation through the Arts – artistic expression, creativity and design thinking – embedded in Music. More than 85% of Frensham students are enrolled in Music Tuition as an Extra Subject.

Mimi Wylie from Murrurundi NSW and Abbey O’Regan from Sydney, both with results of 98/100 placed 8th and 10th respectively in NSW in Design & Technology.

Mimi Wylie’s app and casing design to monitor the fitness and health of horses in polo matches.

Frensham - a forward and outwardthinking boarding school It is important to note that around half of Frensham’s 250 boarders are from families new to boarding. Increasingly, parents are seeing the benefits of ‘boarding’ for developing emotional and intellectual maturity, self-discipline and selfmanagement, and inspiring a deep sense of personal connection.

Futurists say what the world needs most is high functioning young people - emotionally intelligent, with strong self-management skills – young people with empathy and skill, who value other’s points of view. From their first year at Frensham, students are asked to share in organising and managing important aspects of School life, with the imperative to care about their impact.

In a recent address to parents, Head

of Frensham, Julie Gillick shared the following short poem by Guillaume Apollinaire, late 19th Century French Poet and Philosopher, to confirm Frensham’s central belief in supporting students and parents to set the highest expectations – academically and in terms of character and leadership all to action: “Come to the edge.”

“We can’t. We’re afraid.”

“Come to the edge.”

“We can’t. We will fall!”

“Come to the edge.”

And they came.

And he pushed them.

And they flew.

She noted: “I love those words – Apollinaire makes it sound so easy.

Imagine if all it took to move from ‘we can’t, we’re afraid’ to ‘flying’ were as simple as one short phrase of encouragement, repeated three times.

Of course it is not that simple, but with a shared belief in the value of aspirational effort, ‘the courage to strive’, so much more is possible.”

In 2017, Frensham has accommodated an additional 32 senior boarders, in the newly refurbished Linden Turner House, with boarder enrolment at well over 70 per cent of the total School enrolment.

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CSU GRADUATES IN THE SPOTLIGHT – JOSHUA THOMAS

With a Bachelor degree from Charles Sturt University (CSU) under his belt, Joshua Thomas is ready to take on the world.

He has exhibited his art at major local and international galleries and has recently returned from the trip of a lifetime where he was a finalist in the Sony World Photography Awards 2016 Student Focus category in London.

Now that he’s back in Australia, Joshua is embarking on his next project - Bachelor of Creative Practice (Honours) in Photography with Charles Sturt University (CSU).

“I can’t think of any other place where I would receive such unique opportunities to further my career, such as exhibitions at major galleries, unique resources such as a black and white dark room for developing,” he said.

“You have access to top of the line equipment and lecturers who take you seriously and push your abilities to a whole new level.”

F5248 *Graduate Destinations Survey 2013-15, published at: qilt.edu.au

Offered on campus at Wagga

Wagga, the Bachelor of Creative Arts and Design (Photography) delivers hands-on experience from the moment students step into the classroom, and darkroom.

“The visual art department offers many resources such as photographic studios, equipment and close lecturer and student consultations,” Josh said, “My lecturers were always very supportive and engaging, opportunities were always offered to further my practice and conceptual thinking, which was an aspect I felt was really important towards my learning process.”

Redevelop your world with a degree from CSU.

futurestudents.csu.edu.au

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Workplace learning at CSU delivers jobs for graduates eading off to university is an exciting time for students. And studying for a Charles Sturt University (CSU) degree, there’s never a dull moment. From the time students start at CSU, they are at the forefront of their chosen field. Hands-on learning experiences, from providing dental care in remote NSW, to working alongside paramedics at the London Ambulance Service or paid work placements for student engineers, set CSU students up for future success.

A CSU degree takes students beyond the classroom and into the field so they are ready to tackle the challenges of their chosen career.

When Nathan Ross started studying to become a paramedic he had no idea his degree would take him all the way to one of the world’s busiest ambulance stations in London.

Nathan says, “I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside many paramedics in trauma situations, and with patients facing a variety of medical complaints, mental health cases and much more.

“I am grateful to have had this international experience as it’s developed my communication, clinical practice and teamwork skills to prepare me for a job.”

Erin Currier’s Bachelor of Dental Science placement in outback NSW gave her first-hand experience in the challenges of rural health care. Erin says, “We treated members of the local community and patients from surrounding properties who travel hundreds of kilometres for dental treatment.

“We did teeth extractions, denture work and restorative treatment to people of all ages including school children.

“Working on placement out at Brewarrina provided a real insight into working in a rural and remote

community and highlighted the limited access to health care in these communities”.

CSU has a long tradition of incorporating workplace learning in its education of the professions which is why CSU has the highest graduate employment rate in the country* and the University’s new engineering program is set to break new ground in this space.

“We provide every opportunity for our students to undertake real projects and gain real experience while receiving sound academic support and guidance during their five years of study at Charles Sturt University,” says CSU Foundation Professor of Engineering, Euan Lindsay.

Now in their second year, the first group of engineering students is preparing for CSU’s first placements in businesses and local government organisations, which could see these students earn up to $135,000 during their degree.

Workplace learning - also known as an internship, cadetship, clinical placements, practicum, field work or professional experience - gives CSU students’ real-world learning opportunities and practical skills they need to hit the ground running after graduation.

Secure a future as a highly employable graduate by calling CSU on 1800 334 733 or visiting futurestudents.csu.edu.au.

Below left: CSU dental science student in Brewarrina in 2016; Below right: CSU paramedicine student Nathan Ross (middle) in London in 2016

*Graduate Destination Survey 2013-2015, published by Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT).

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO PARTNER UP WITH AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST REGIONAL UNIVERSITY? It means finding the edge to your advancement in CQUniversity’s wide range of postgraduate courses. It means studying where and how you like – on campus or online via our renowned and flexible distance education mode, with access to our 20+ national locations. It means benefitting from the expertise and support of a uni ranked in the top 2% worldwide*.

It means choosing a uni doing things differently. *Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2016–7.

POSTGRADUATE COURSES STARTING MID-YEAR IN:

» » » » » » » »

accident forensics

technology

accounting

» maintenance and

arts

asset management

business creative industries dementia studies diagnostic imaging domestic and family violence studies

» engineering » healthy aging studies » human resources management

» information systems

THE

CRICOS Code: 00219C | RTO Code: 40939 | P_AD_170041_OutThere

UNI

TAFE AND UNIVERSITY QUALIFICATIONS

» information

» management » marketing and

public relations

» nursing (re-entry, mental health)

» » » » »

OH&S paramedic science project management teaching tourism

APPLY NOW TO START MID-YEAR

TO YOUR

AMBITION

specialfeature

Best brains in the industry lead CQUni’s safety sciences afety science is a rapidly growing field of expertise; a field that has been spurred on by increasing regulations around safety and health, not only in Australia but worldwide.

According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook, employment in the safety sciences is expected to grow strongly until late 2020, with most jobs to be in public administration and safety, mining and construction.

This increasing regulatory focus on health and safety, together with a global business emphasis on achieving reduced costs and higher reliability, has resulted in CQUniversity safety sciences graduates being highly sought after by a range of industries including mining, manufacturing, maritime, aviation, defence, transport and logistics, health and consultancy.

CQUniversity has recently welcomed Dr Milos Nedved to its safety science team. He will be based at the University’s new Perth campus.

Dr Nedved has spent half a century at the forefront of industrial safety across the globe. He believes that, by joining CQUniversity he has now joined one of the world’s top safety science academic teams.

Dr Nedved says, “CQUni’s Associate Professor Yvonne Toft has assembled the best brains in the transport and industrial safety domain which is why I’m proud to join the team.”

He says the safety science courses offered by CQUniversity are by far the best he has seen in Australia, United States or Europe in the last 35 years.

Dr Nedved will be supporting new students at the Perth campus, while helping with fresh course developments and supervising postgraduate research students studying via distance.

He brings with him vast experience in chemical process safety analysis methods, drawn from work with the giant Dow and Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) consortiums.

Dr Nedved has also worked

extensively as a United Nations (UN) Expert in Chemical Safety and as a UN Chief Technical Advisor in Major Hazard Control. He has also assisted legal firms as an expert witness in accident investigation for hundreds of court cases.

CQUniversity offers a range of courses in transport and safety sciences, available to start mid-year, from certificates through to PhDs. These courses include a comprehensive range of graduate certificates suited to those who would like to upskill in niche areas such as accident phenomenology, advanced accident investigation practice, advanced safety science practice, and fatigue risk management. Masters courses are also available in both advanced safety science practice and safety science (specialisation).

All transport and safety science postgraduate programs are offered online via distance education.

For further details about starting a course in safety science mid-year, search ‘CQUni’ or visit cqu.edu.au/midyear.

Aboveleft: Safety science expert Dr Milos Nedved joins CQUni’s academic team in Perth; Above right: Master of Safety Science (Accident Investigation) students on fieldwork at the crash lab facilities at CQUniversity Bundaberg.

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Boarding at Loreto

Years 7 - 12 (full time and weekly) We support our boarders by providing:

Marryatville

• • • • • •

Individual rooms Academic support, including supervised study sessions by tutors and teachers Access to gym and cardio facilities Health and wellbeing programs, including an on-site clinical psychologist An on-site Heath Care Centre with regular doctor visits A school environment which is conducive to high academic achievement and to the development of strong, articulate and independent women

An independent Catholic day & boarding school for girls from ELC to Year 12 316 Portrush Road, Marryatville, South Australia www.loreto.sa.edu.au | (08) 8334 4200

CRICOS No. 00692G

specialfeature

Helping shape strong, confident and articulate young women Loreto is a leading South Australian day and boarding school offering an all-girls’ education in Early Learning (6 weeks – 5 years), Primary School (Reception – Year 6), and Senior School (Years 7-12).

s an Early-Learning-to-Year-12 College offering both day and boarding, we have a strong focus on the developmental needs of girls, both academically and pastorally.

One of seven Australian Loreto Schools united by the vision of Mary Ward, the College prides itself on the development of confident, articulate and courageous girls and young women who have the social consciousness to make a difference in the world.

We are driven by an international focus, through our connection to over 150 Loreto schools worldwide and through our dedication to the International Baccalaureate programme, from Reception to Year 10.

We value the holistic education of girls as demonstrated by our students’ outstanding academic achievements and their sporting accomplishments.

Our students achieve some of the best Year 12 results in the state and our student performance in the National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests are consistently above average. Our strong academic performance has seen the College produce two of South Australia’s

Rhodes Scholars in the last four years.

Our girls’ success is attributed to a 400-year-old tradition of Loreto education, our dedicated staff, and our broader community, who share our vision for young women.

Boarding

Loreto College, Marryatville, is the only all-girls’ Catholic boarding school in Adelaide. The boarding precinct is home to 60 girls from Adelaide, country South Australia, interstate and overseas.

Our Boarding House caters for students in Years 7-12 as full-time or weekly boarders. Weekly boarding provides the capacity for students who live in the regional areas of Adelaide to return home on weekends.

Boarding school life provides the opportunity to establish lifelong friendships and enables each student to develop resilience, confidence and leadership.

Loreto boarding students are encouraged to develop initiative and self-reliance and to act independently.

Our boarders consistently achieve strong academic results due to support structures, including study and

tutoring programs aimed at assisting girls to achieve their personal best.

Two separate houses on the College grounds form the Boarding School, the historic Karrawood House, which provides a wonderful sense of home, and Reid House, comprising contemporary designed accommodation. Each purposebuilt space has been designed to best facilitate communal living, while providing privacy by way of each girl having her own individual room. Main dining and common areas provide ideal spaces for all our Boarders to come together for meals and activities.

Living within the College grounds, Boarders have access to all school facilities including the gymnasium and fitness studio (consisting of a cardio and weights room), netball and tennis courts and music centre.

Our Little Sister program provides a caring relationship between older and younger students, particularly when they are new to the Boarding House.

For more informtion, visit the Loreto College, Marryatville website: loreto.sa.edu.au

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R

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30th June to 2nd July 2017

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2 BIG EVENTS CABOOLTURE SHOWGROUNDS

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This major field day event in South East Queensland offers easy access from Brisbane, the Moreton Shire, the Lockyer Valley, the Somerset Region, South Burnett and the Sunshine Coast.

A massive showcase of products and services for everything from small lot farming, to specialist cropping and large acreage farming as well as cattle, horses and specialist animal breeds like Alpacas.

Toowoomba is the emerging Beef Epicentre of Australia. With a brand new airport now operating international 747 freight flights from Toowoomba, a new abattoir about to be built, easy access to the largest selling centre in the Southern Hemisphere at Roma plus others at Toowoomba and Dalby, easy access to the Port of Brisbane via rail and road, regular Beef train services from Western Queensland to Toowoomba now operating, centre of excellence for all products used in growing Beef, centre of excellence for products and services for Beef properties makes this an event you do not want to miss.

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